Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Your Plasma TV Questions Answered

Plasma TV's first entered the United States market towards the end of 1999, and have become commonplace in households today. Compared to the conventional CRT TV screens, Plasma display devices quickly became recognized for their much improved digital image quality.

Conventional CRT's use a electron beam to scan the picture from top to bottom at different intervals, which cause the phosphors to light thus creating the image. Unlike convential CRT screens, Plasma screens have a transistor electrode for every single pixel which more evenly lights the image across the entire surface of the display.

Plasma televisions allow you to see movies in the format the director intended it to be viewed. With a 16:9 aspect ratio, it was designed to match the natural field of view of the human eye. With billions of colors displayed resulting in smoother picture and detailed shading the picture quality is truly lifelike and amazing.

One important thing to consider when purchasing a Plasma television is what is the preferred resolution of the unit you will be purchasing. Some common questions asked are whether or not to go with a HDTV (high definition TV) Plasma or the EDTV(enhanced definition TV). The HDTV unit is typically more expensive because the Plasma display element is more expensive. Generally speaking, the HDTV will give you a higher quality image then the EDTV screen, however, the EDTV plasma screen may perform better with lower quality video input signals, such as satellite, regular cable and DVD. If you have a lot of HDTV channels it would be more beneficial to purchase the HDTV plasma screen. Either way both plasma screens will produce a high quality viewing experience from any compatible signal.

If you are considering purchasing a used Plasma television then beware of some older model Plasma televisions that may have screen burn-in damage. Over time if some areas of the screen are used more frequently then others such as a menu bar or other graphical image then this may result in a permanent indentation of the image in the screen. Over time the image quality will decline and the result is an overall muddy picture. Due to better technology, the newer plasma televisions are less likely to have this problem.

To receive huge discounts on Plasma televisions be sure to do an online search for coupon codes for Plasma televisions. Most large companies such as Best Buy and Target offer coupon codes online which will give you up to a 10 to 15 percent discount right away on certain Plasma televisions.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Your-Plasma-TV-Questions-Answered/42425

Video Transfer to DVD Saves Your Family Memories

Living in the age of technology has its distinct advantages. Gone are the days of scratched records and those funky 8-track tapes. We can now record our music, our movies, and even our family memories on DVDs. DVDs are stable, easy to duplicate and they take a beating much better than older media did.

While improving technology is fun to watch, there is one drawback to how quickly the change happens; what do you do with all of your old home movies which are on VHS and other formats? What happens to them when you no longer have a VHS system to play them on? The simple answer to this problem is the process of video transfer.

Companies who specialize in video transfer, sometimes also referred to as video conversion, can take you older format media and transfer the content onto DVDs. By converting your family memories from your old 8mm and Beta tapes onto a DVD, you can then watch them without requiring an older technology player to do so. As an added bonus, you can also share your family memories with others by simply copying the DVD and mailing it to your far away relatives. Since they are much more likely to have a DVD player, they can enjoy the family history as well.

One of the problems in the past with sharing your films has been incompatibility with formats. There now are four distinct international video standards. These different international video standards are NTSC, PAL, PAL-M and SECAM. What this means to you is that depending on what part of the world you are located in, the format for your media may be different than someone in another area of the world. This prevents your relatives in Europe from sending you a video tape here in the U.S. because your U.S. designed player is a different standard and is unable to play the European tape.

Any good video conversion company can help you with the problem of incompatible international video standards by adjusting for the differences between the standards. This adjustment will give you an end result DVD which can be played world-wide!

Another reason you may want to consider transferring all of your old home movies onto the newer technology DVDs is because the older forms of tape and film were not designed to last for more than a few years. Over time these older films become darker and harder to see. By transferring your home movies to DVD you are able to stop this natural age decomposition and preserve your family memories for generations yet to come. By doing this now, you can ensure it will be possible to convert your memories before they are lost to the aging process and to lack of equipment in the future.

One of the best things you can do to preserve your family home movies and tapes is to video transfer them to a more current media such as a DVD. By moving your images now onto DVD, you are able to have adjustments made to deal with the incompatibilities in the international video standards to allow them to be played by family members worldwide. You can also help to stave off the natural aging process and preserve the best images possible for generations to come.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Video-Transfer-to-DVD-Saves-Your-Family-Memories/44929

Choosing The Best Memory Card For Your Electronics

There are many different types of flash memory cards that can be used with cameras and other storage devices. Almost all of them use basically the same technology, but they differ in ways that make them incompatible with each other. Some use different communication methods, and some are simply the wrong size. Here are some of the most popular memory card types, and the ones that you should know in order to make an informed decision.

CompactFlash, or CF cards, were for a while the most popular card to use with digital cameras. They contain not only the memory chips, but microcontrollers as well. The capacities range from mere megabytes all the way up to 16 GB. There are two different types of CF cards. Cameras built for type I cannot use type II - however, cameras built for type II can use both. Be sure to check before you invest in an expensive high capacity card. Lots of advanced cameras use CF instead of one of the alternatives.

The Secure Digital (SD) card has taken over the market share when it comes to compatibility. Nowadays, the huge majority of cameras use SD cards. Unless you are going to buy a high-grade professional camera, it is likely that you won't have many other choices besides SD. Modern SD cards reach sizes up to 2 or even 4 GB, with most cards sold being around 512 MB or 1 GB. Recent cards have achieved much higher transfer rates, around 20 MB/s.

The SDHC card has evolved from the SD card, and uses some of the same specifications. It is modified for much larger capacities, all the way up to 32 GB. Many modern cameras support SDHC since it isn't too radically different from its predecessor. But, it is still a fairly new technology, and you should make sure that your camera or your card reader are build to handle it. You can sometimes even find updates that allow for SDHC functionality, since most of the differences are in the software rather than the hardware.

If you plan to get into the world of digital cameras and start enjoying the convenience of taking photos without film, then you'll definitely need at least one good memory card with you. So consider the different high-tech options that are available to you, and consider your own needs (such as how many pictures you want to store at one time), and you'll be able to get the perfect memory card.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Choosing-The-Best-Memory-Card-For-Your-Electronics/40774

Getting A Downloadable Software Program Is Better Than Buying A Refurbish

There was a time that the analysis of spectral composition whether it is an electrical, acoustic or optical waveform was done using a large machine similar to those used in a recording studio.

These days, computers and other machines can do the same by simply downloading the software. Here a few examples of those readily available.

1. If the person at home is using either Windows2000 or XP, the program called Spectrogram 14 can offer a spectrum analyzer scope display in real time for any source that is connected to the sound card.

This in turn allows the user to download songs so this can be played back later on with clarity for easy listening. The software can also be used to analyze biological and bat echolocation sounds as well as the identification of human speech.

2. An older program that can also be downloaded is the DL4YHF Audio Spectrum Analyzer. This was already out in the market even before windows came out using the DOS system. To be able to keep up with the times, a digital version was launched.

This is better known these days as a specialized audio analyzer that can act as a data logger, filer and a frequency converter.

3. The OscilloMeter also known as Spectrum Analyzer 4.14 is another good choice. It comes with a frequency counter, noise and distortion meter, phase shift meter and a voltmeter. The only catch is that this has to be bought for $399.

4. The SpectraScope is something that will be very useful for the professional audio engineer or someone who is just a hi-fi enthusiast. The individual can listen to four different sounds simultaneously or separately for easy comparison.

It supports all Windows Operating systems and this can be downloaded for a free trial for just $30. People who like what it can do can buy the program later on.

5. TrueTRA, a company based in Tennessee has a similar program that is not that expensive. For less than $40, the person can buy the program and then use it to analyze sounds using the different meters it has.

Most of the downloadable spectrum analyzers are free. It doesn't occupy a lot of space in the hard drive for this to work. The only thing needed is an Internet connection so this can be installed in a few minutes and the person can begin to use it.

Scientists and engineers need a spectrum analyzer in order to study wavelengths. These machines are expensive and if the person doesn't have one, the best thing to do will be to a refurbished unit that is much cheaper. The individual may find one in the junk shop and then replace the old parts with those that can be bought in Radio Shack. However, there is another way to do such studies without spending so much on equipment.

The person can do this by downloading the software in the computer. If the engineer has a laptop or a desktop at home and is using a Windows as an operating system, a program that will work is the Spectrogram 14 that has a heads up display showing everything in the monitor. This can be used to analyze video and audio files that are stored in the computer's hard drive. An amateur video director can even use this to edit the film before showing the final product.

Another good choice is the Oscillometer that is known by some as the Spectrum Analyzer 4.14. It has other things that appear on the display, which is why it will cost a little over $400, but this will still be cheaper than getting a brand new spectrum analyzer that could occupy a lot of space in the office.

Sometimes, the sound engineer has to bring some work home. Another program that can be downloaded into the computer is the Spectra Scope, which allows the user to listen to up to four tracks simultaneously or one by one. For those that are skeptic about what this program can do, the individual can sign up for a free trial for just $30 and if happy, the customer can purchase the entire package later on.

People who can't afford to spend something above a hundred dollars and are unsure if something free can work can try the TrueTRA that can be bought for less than $40. It also has the different meters to analyze wavelengths just like the others.

Buying a refurbished spectrum analyzer is like buying a second hand car that has to be put together for it to be up and running again. The individual may not have the time to get the parts one by one so downloading this for free or buying a copy of the program at an affordable price seems to be the better option to get the job done.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Getting-A-Downloadable-Software-Program-Is-Better-Than-Buying-A-Refurbish/33876

Finding A Prototyping Solution In The Business World - Fine Line Prototyping

A solution is the result of the method or process of finding the answer to a problem. A business is a complex system that, simply put, needs to constantly find solutions to problems tied to productivity and cost. Now, each business has a product. It may a tangible product that needs to be manufactured, or it may be a service that in turn offers a solution to another individual or business problem.

In the case of products that need to be manufactured, the problems are still tied to costs, productivity and efficiency. In short, when it comes to producing products, the development process needs to be done in the shortest amount of time and money with the assurance of increasing the business' bottom line.

However, the process of development can be very tedious. Many prototypes can be made to refine a product before it is even produced and launched. Creating prototypes is a problem in itself because of the amount of effort and time it can potentially consume. This is why the solution to this problem was to utilize computer aided designs or CAD, where one can create the design using virtual 3D models on screen to test a product.

This though, obviously has its limitations and the solution to that is a machine that manufactures prototypes. In fact, there are many prototyping solutions providers that offer the answer to all prototyping needs. These solutions are made possible by machines that are compact and easy to use, which manufacture prototypes. These machines that manufacture prototypes simulates the production process for your products without the use of complicated, large scale mechanisms.

These machines produce prototypes based on a computer aided design. This way, you are able to transform your virtual design into actual 3D models and you can test the feasibility of your design and product.

Check out various prototype solutions provider to be able to find one that suits your specifications and needs. Generally, you should choose a prototype solutions provider that will be able to give a cost effective, compact machine that manufactures prototypes easily inside the design engineers' workspace.

Whether your designs are for manufacturing digital products, automotive systems, industrial, medical, and other fields, the right prototype solutions provider will give provide your with a state of the art machine that manufactures prototypes for all your prototyping needs directly from your 3D CAD system. This way, your design engineers can test the prototypes quickly, efficiently and cost effectively.

Fine Line Prototyping comes from two things. The first is creativity while the other is innovation.The first part, which is often the most difficult, is finding a need in order to make that product. The second is putting those ideas together and conducting research and development until this can be made commercially for public use.

If the company has been in the industry for a long time, the marketing department can conduct research studies to find out what are the needs of the market. An inventor does not have these resources so the best reference will be friends and strangers on the streets that could give insight into the problem.

When the information has been collected, the designer will then come up with the end solution just like putting an X mark on a map. The challenging part, which will take up a lot of time, will be how to get to that spot.

Large companies can set a budget to get started while the inventor who is not well funded can write a proposal requesting for a grant. Out of a thousand ideas, perhaps only five will get to the next stage so that the group will be more focused on the task at hand. There will be a lot of trial and error with each experience making the person come closer to a model. Various designs will also be made so this can be tested and should it breakdown, another unit will be sent in to continue with the work.

Airplanes use wind tunnels before allowing a prototype to be flown by a test pilot. Automobiles drive through various road and weather conditions. When the product has passed all the tests, this is the time the model can begin initial production. The marketing department will pre-launch the model into the market and then have a grand opening where it will be finally introduced.

The biggest test is how customers will react to the product. A rival company may have something better, there may be a problem with the pricing and other things that have to be analyzed again so this can be corrected.

The cycle of fine line prototyping is done in making other products and is the same in almost any industry. The system may not be perfect but with the help of technology and the feedback of the customers, this practice will continue as it has for more than a hundred years.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Finding-A-Prototyping-Solution-In-The-Business-World---Fine-Line-Prototyping/33692

Tips for Traveling with your Laptop

If you are going to be traveling with your laptop there are some things that you will want to keep in mind. The fact of the matter is that traveling with your laptop is sometimes necessary. And even if it is not there is nothing wrong with wanting to take your laptop with you on the road. But you must remember one thing; your laptop is a very important piece of equipment. This means that you will want to keep it safe no matter if you are traveling by plane, boat, or car.

Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind while taking your laptop with you on the road. These will help to ensure that your laptop is safe at all times, and that you get the most out of it while you are away from home.

1. Anytime you are traveling with your laptop be sure that it is in good hands. This means that you will want to make sure that you buy a good carrier for your laptop. Even though this may cost you a bit of money, it is very important in order to keep everything safe. After all, do you really want to jeopardize the safety of your laptop?

2. If you are taking your laptop on an airplane with you, make sure that you carry it on if you are allowed. Even though you would like to think that airline personnel will take care of your laptop, the fact of the matter is that things can happen that are out of their control. At least if you carry your laptop on the plane with you, you know for a fact that it is going to be in good hands from start to finish. And this is what matters most.

3. If you need to use your laptop while on your trip you will want to make sure that you have everything you need. This includes everything from the power cord to a fully charged battery. In addition, make sure that the hotel you are staying at offers internet access. This way you can move forward with business as usual instead of having to adapt. In todays day and age the majority of hotels offer a wireless internet connection so that visitors can have everything that they need at their fingertips. A simple call ahead to the hotel can ensure this amenity.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Tips-for-Traveling-with-your-Laptop/33668

Customized Applications Of Spectrum Analyzers

Spectrum analyzers may seem really technical and scientific to the ears. This is because spectrum analyzers are often used in factories and in laboratories.

Spectrum analyzers are instruments that is used to receive and select frequency levels based on the superheterodyne principle. It is very sensitive, converting higher frequencies of up to 10s GHZ into something that is measurable. Received frequencies are first put into a series of pre-selected values.

These are then converted into a frequency that is selected to a DC level that is measurable. Often the values are converted into the logarithmic scales. These values are then displayed in the CRT, with the signal strength in the y-axis and the frequency in the x-axis.

Signals that are weaker than the noise in the background cannot be measured by the spectrum analyzer, power levels that are often seen in microwave receivers. This is the reason why spectrum analyzers need the RBW to be able to determine these measurements. Here, the received signals are measured in decibels rather than voltage because of the low signal strengths that are received and the frequency range of the measurements.

Spectrum analyzers especially the modern ones have a lot of uses. One of which is as a device frequency response measurements, which is used primarily in measuring amplitude response in dBm in comparison to the frequency of the device. The resulting value is on Hertz.

Another use is as a microwave tower monitor, where its transmitted power and receiver power is measured. This is one way to verify the strength and frequency of the signal.

Spectrum analyzers are also being used to identify and measure interference in signals, which are often needed in site operations of telecom towers, TV stations and the guiding systems of airports.

It can also provide measurements that are specific to the program or applications being used such as in the case of Adjacent channel power or (ACP) and phase noise. It can also analyze digital modulation measurements especially against industry standards such as GSM and blue-tooth. Another application is the analysis of vector signals as well as the saving, printing and transferring of data.

Spectrum analyzers also allow you to have remote control over LAN and the Internet as well as update firmware, add new features and fix problems in the program. Some spectrum analyzers also have provisions for diagnostics and self-calibration. Other measurements that the device can handle are measurements of return and loss as well as spurious signals; and alignment of satellite antenna

Radio frequency analyzer is technically necessary as measuring tool. For electronic enthusiasts inclined to this specialized analysis of signals and frequencies, having rf spectum analyzer is one of the most wanted device for collection, just like the need for having oscilloscope for amateur and professional use. The question is: would you rather have a customized assembled rf spectrum analyzer or would you avail commercially available ones?

When it comes to rf frequency analyzers, there is no simplicity not directly proportional to the cost. The varying designs could mean a lot to the convenience of the user as far as function is concerned. Special IC chips are integrated to ease up the technology of rf frequency analyzers.

A good one must include the important elements necessary like amplifier, mixers and the visual display. It has the commercial requirement to read range of regions from 50khz to 70 khz, plus the capability to go through VHF and UHF. But above all of the most important aspect, it should produce accurate results. This is what makes acquiring spectrum analyzer critical.

Making your own customized RF frequency analyzer is the best solution for serious use. Nowadays, the equipment can be integrated to computer to save cost. The most expensive consideration is the display screen, which can be substituted by a computer monitor. It means, when computers are used in designing personalized RF analyzer, it is dealing with digital setup. With the visual capacity and accuracy of computers, the task is always better.

Analog RF spectrum analyzers still work well, but in the advent of modernity its components are replaced by IC (integrated circuits), making the assembly compact and rigid. Computer programmers and analysts can compile programs especially for this purpose.

The advantage of creating your own RF spectrum analyzer is already becoming popular even in the Internet. There is even an option to combine the analyzer with built-in oscilloscope as two powerful tools in one assembly. Doing this combination is not impossible. In fact, other customized add-ons can be achieved, aside from manipulating desired dynamic frequency ranges. It only takes the right diagram and knowledge to make it a goal.

Experimenters are more interested in using their skills with the help of a computer programmer to expand the capacity of their personalized RF spectrum analyzer. Even when computers get updated faster, the assembled kit will not be affected for quite a while. It will be at one's discretion to adjust and make his equipment updated.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Customized-Applications-Of-Spectrum-Analyzers/33574

Easy Prototyping Services In The Military

Computers are focal point of our highly technological civilization. It is because of the creation of computers that we have been able to progress globally. Computers have made our lives easer by providing automated solutions to tasks that would other wise take us forever to accomplish manually.

Computers are more than the piece of equipment on your desk in which you type on. Computers have a great influence in the development of the manufacturing industry.

Prototypes are an important step in the manufacturing process. It is in this process that we will encounter computer numerical control or CNC prototyping. In CNC prototyping, a computer controller basically translates the design data and produces a 3D output of that data through a mechanical device.

This whole process has revolutionized the manufacturing process because previously, prototypes were difficult to produce because it consumed a lot of time, effort and cost to make. Now with CNC prototyping, complex 3D virtual designs by design engineers are easily translated actual 3D models with straight and curved lines easily replicated automatically. With CNC prototyping machines, producing prototypes are fast, easy and cost effective.

Now that CNC prototyping processes are available for most prototyping problems, the manufacturing process is greatly sped up. The savings in time and effort allow greater productivity by allowing design engineers to work on more with less time needed. This means a greater and faster turn over within a shorter amount of time. This of course then directly translates into the bottom line and profits for the business.

Sometimes, there is need for more than one CNC prototyping machine to produce the various components of a prototype. In this case, a series of CNC prototyping machines are grouped together and in most cases, these CNC prototyping machines are controlled by computer aided manufacturing or CAM software packages.

It is this CAM software package that aids the design engineer in deciding what types of tools, processes and paths in manufacturing are to be used. After this, the process becomes almost completely automated.

With continuous technological advancements in this area of CNC prototyping, it won't be long before the whole process is made even easier and more convenient. Thanks to the aid of machines run by computers, there won't be much need for too much human interference in the prototyping process. This in turn, speeds up the actual manufacturing process. Which in turn, makes things easier for everyone.

Nothing is constant except for change. This is the reason that government and those in the private sector always strive to achieve new heights in the development of better machines and equipment. A very good example is the military. Each branch of the service uses weapons and equipment to get a job done. The government does not only set a budget to arm and feed the troops but a huge portion goes to research and development.

The military may have a department to conduct tests but those who do most of the work are outside contractors who over prototyping services. For example, if the United States Air Force wants a new fighter, various people are asked to bid on the project. In fact, Boeing and Lockheed Martin each made a version and the top brass will then decide which one will go into production.

The project took almost 10 years to complete. The military also wanted this to be used not only for the Air Force but also for the Navy and the Marines to replace the aging fighters that have been in the service for more than a decade.

The important factors to consider by the two contractors was the aircraft's ability to evade radar such as the F-117 stealth fighter and how well it can perform in combat. This can only be achieved by providing it with sophisticated sensors and radar systems to attack before the enemy can get a shot.

It also included how much it will cost to make one aircraft since the contractor who wins will have to produce a large inventory to be used by the armed forces. In 2001, more than 7 years after this project started, Lockheed Martin was awarded the contract to produce the new fighter of the 21st century. The military hopes to get the planes to the various units in the next 10 to 15 years to be able to combat the threats of the future.

The United States is not the only country that uses prototyping services to beef up its country's defenses. Across the Atlantic, nations in Europe have done the same thing with the development of the Harrier, which is the only successful Vertical and Take Off Landing aircraft to this day.

Scientists from different countries worked on the project for years before being able to produce a plane that can offer close air support to troops on the ground. The latest of this is the Typhoon, which is a faster and sleeker fighter aircraft.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Easy-Prototyping-Services-In-The-Military/33192

A Guide To Spectrum Analyzers - What You Need To Know

Among the more well known brands of spectrum analyzers include Agilent, Standford Research, Avcom, BK Precision, Advantest, California Instruments, IFR, Instek, Marconi, Noisecom, Protek, Aeroflex, Rohde & Schwarz, Wayne Kerr, Telecom, W & G Instruments, Dranetz, Hameg, Wavetek and Tektronix. But even if these are great brands and their manufacturers try to come up with the highest quality spectrum analyzer possible, eventually they will suffer from minor glitches to major problems.

Generally, a spectrum analyzer is a device that measures and analyzes signals throughout the electromagnetic spectrum. The analyzer divides into parts signal and splits them into an amplitude component and a frequency component. You can find a variety of spectrum analyzers in the market. You have the subaudio, audio, and radio-frequency analyzers. You can also find spectrum analyzers that are intended to measure microwave and optical signals.

Aside from the kind of signals it measures, a spectrum analyzer can also be divided into analog, digital or hybrid. Digital spectrum analyzers usually handle more complex analysis and are used mainly with Fast Fourier Transform or FFT. Digital analyzers are able to transform the electrical or optical signals into components that are much smaller and a lot simpler. The differences of each model can be traced on the bandwidth range, sweep rates, frequency, and resolution.

Even before you buy a spectrum analyzer it is truly important that you conduct a thorough research on the various models. Since these devices do not come cheap, it would be best to determine which one is right for your application. It is best to read and study the machine's features, images and specs and if possible conduct some trial tests with the spectrum analyzer to see if it is running and to see if it will be able to handle all your needs.

Meanwhile, when you start to notice that the measurements of your spectrum analyzer is way off that what it should be, you better bring your unit fin for recalibrations. You need to look for companies that perform calibrating, repairing and refurbishing of spectrum analyzers. There are several of them on the internet. And to ensure that you get the best service you should only rely on the services of experts. There are a couple of companies that comply with strict ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 17025 registration levels making them more than adept in performing repair works on your spectrum analyzers. When looking for such companies it is also best to study their turnaround policies and other services like 24-hour shipping of finished units.

A portable spectrum analyzer is a passive receiver that allows the display of the signal in the form of easily recognizable data. Spectrum analyzers also display raw and crude signal information that may include valuable data on voltage, power, and frequency. The portable spectrum analyzer can also provide the user with a clear and highly accurate window that has the ability to monitor the whole frequency spectrum.

The main use of spectrum analyzers is the analysis of the electrical signals that run through or are being transmitted by a system or device. They are widely used in a variety of circumstances where design, manufacturing or repair of electrical systems or devices is required. By analyzing the different characteristics of the signal once it has gone through a certain system or device, the data taken can be used to determine the performance, find defects on the product and repair the problem.

Different applications available today allow a signal to have several different characteristics. One example is in the communications department. Before sending information such as those that contain audio data, the signals should first be modulated onto a higher frequency carrier.

Every modulated signal has unique characteristics depending on the type of modulation process used. Spectrum analyzers provide a visual comparison of different modulated signals in order to allow for calibration of signals. Giving signals visual characteristics and understanding what specific signals look like allow for better comparisons and analysis.

When looking for good portable spectrum analyzers, established product specifications can help in choosing the right one for the job. An example of such specifications includes important physical aspects of spectrum analyzers such as mounting and form factors. For these, choices include handheld models, the portable or bench top varieties, and the fixed models. Other things to consider when choosing a spectrum analyzer include instrument or PC based units.

There are also important frequency and modulation performance specifications to consider when searching for portable spectrum analyzers. This includes the sensitivity of the frequency range, frequency accuracy, as well as frequency resolution. It is vital that a spectrum analyzer you choose should be able to cover the fundamental frequencies of the application to which it will be used for.

Frequency accuracy is often listed under the frequency readout accuracy table and can be differentiated as the sum of several sources of errors which include frequency-reference inaccuracy, span error, and RBW center-frequency error. Frequency resolution is an important specification when trying to measure signals that are close together and need to be apparent from each other.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/A-Guide-To-Spectrum-Analyzers---What-You-Need-To-Know/33102

Pager Services is a Hot Growing Industry

You might be surprised to know that paging services is growing steadily each year, despite the proliferation of cell phones. While at first glance it seems a bit counter-intuitive that someone would prefer a pager over a cell phone, it really is not if you understand this niche industry.

Right now, in the U.S. alone, there are millions upon millions of pagers in use, and that number continues to grow each year. There are many reasons why corporations and individuals would choose the use of an alpha-numeric pager over a cell phone.

The first reason many professionals in high-demand, such as doctors and on-call technical staff, choose to use an alpha-numeric pager is because they have a larger range of reach than cellular phones. Cellular phones rely on the location of cell towers while alpha-numeric pagers do not; they use satellites and radio towers.

This difference alone insures that pagers have a larger range and higher percentage of availability than a cell phone. With a nationwide paging ability, a pager can be activated a long way from where reliable cell phone services reside. You might be interested to know that pagers will activate on an airplane while a cell phone will not!

While the pagers of old were large, clunky objects which had an annoying alert and presented you with simply a return call number, the much improved alpha-numeric pagers of today come with scrolling LCD screens, e-mail capability, two-way communication abilities, and pleasing ring tones which rival even the best cell phones on the market.

Large corporations which span the nation, use paging services to keep their remote staff up to date on company happenings and necessary emergent news. Through the usage of two-way nationwide paging they allow the remote employees to answer their messages without the large costs of having each employee on a cellular phone plan.

With the use of a two-way alpha-numeric pager corporations can ensure communication between themselves and their staff without having to deal with issues of abusing cell phones for personal calls, or staff claiming they were out of range of a cellular tower when important news breaks.

Another advantage of alpha-numeric pagers over cell phones is their ability to run on a single AA battery for months. Where a cell phone needs constant re-charging, a pager will run approximately three months on that one single battery.

This makes them much more reliable and less prone to be out of service because of power issues.

One additional reason which users prefer a pager to a cell phone is what I like to call the "annoyance" factor. Where a cell phone generally requires you to answer it, simply because someone is on the other end of the line, an alpha-numeric pager allows you to read about the issue and respond in your own time and in your desired fashion. This allows the user to deal with work but not have to be overly available every time someone needs to reach them.

Whatever your remote communication needs, an alpha-numeric pager is still a very viable option for today. With nationwide paging, an alpha-numeric pager is reachable in areas where cell phones are not, yet will allow you to respond in your own time to the needs of the person on the other end.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Pager-Services-is-a-Hot-Growing-Industry/45097

What To Look For In Mp3 Player Reviews

An MP3 player review is an important resource for any potential buyer. It provides information on the product, having been tested by a range of people including experts and in a range of environments. The whole point of a review is that it allows the reader to get a well rounded outlook on a product before purchasing. Any basic MP3 player review should, therefore, give the reader clear information, considering the variety of users that may purchase the item and also the ways in which they may use it. The review is that meant to provide the best possible consumer information, and so the best type of review should give the reader the opportunity to make an informed choice about their purchase, and with confidence.

MP3 player reviews come in various styles. Some are simply tables with ratings clearly next to the criteria that are being considered. Others will consist of explanations and considerations of the various features, and also provide clear realistic examples to back up the opinion expressed. The best type of MP3 player review will provide both. This makes the review both easy to understand, will make the plus and minus points stand out, and also provide more in depth information on the device that catches the consumers eye. It will also have a clear and functional search facility that will narrow down the criteria that is most important to the buyer. This saves time and energy, and prevents unnecessary information being read.

Any review should consider a range of MP3 players within a range of price categories. The price should be clearly displayed as this is often one of the first criteria that will affect the consumer`s initial decision when choosing a product. It would be unfair to produce a review that enticed the buyer, only to show a price outside of the budget afterwards. The descriptions should place the MP3 player in the top, bottom or lowest end in terms of quality for the price category it fits. Consumers know that the higher priced models are probably the best in terms of quality and special features, but it is only the products within their price range that truly interests them.

MP3 player reviews should provide detailed information on the performance of the product, and compare it to others similar in both type and price. The sound quality should be tested thoroughly, with a range of music considered as the quality of sound will differ, for instance, with additional bass or a faster beat. The sound quality should also be tested in a variety of scenarios to ensure that most possible uses are considered; for instance, the sound quality when jogging may differ from the sound quality in a busy street. The sound should be tested through both MP3 player compatible speakers and headphones, as both are realistic possibilities.

The portability of the MP3 player is another major consideration. Size and weight can vary, and often matters a great deal to the buyer. Exact measurements should be provided where possible to give the clearest possible picture. In addition to this, the usability should be a major consideration. Some are more functional and easy to navigate than others. The buyer that is an MP3 player veteran will want a different product to that of a first time buyer.

Another consideration in any review should also be the durability, as potential buyers want to know that their chosen product is not only the best possible quality, but that it will also last. The battery life and the time taken to recharge is another important factor, and exact or average figures should be provided.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/What-To-Look-For-In-Mp3-Player-Reviews/46163

Leasing Pagers - Try It Before You Buy It

For lots of people, leasing pagers is a better deal than buying them. When you lease, you pay a tiny fee for rental of the unit, in addition to the regular monthly service fee. If you don't need to buy one, why shell out the cash?

Why might leasing be a better deal than buying?

- Simple economics. Leasing is cheaper than buying.

As technology increases, more people are choosing to use a pager instead of a phone. Old numeric models allowed you to only receive numeric messages. Then, you had to find a phone and call the mystery person back.

Now there are alpha-numeric models that allow you to use text as well as numbers. A two way allows you to send, as well as receive, these messages.

You can rent an alpha numeric pager, and it can save you the trouble of using a cell phone. Cell phone text messaging is not always cheap or efficient, so a rented pager can do your work for you.

- Try before you buy. You can check out features before you buy.

Pagers can run you anywhere from $40 well into the hundreds. How do you know if you need another electronic gadget to add to your arsenal? Wouldn't you hate to spend the money and then never use it?

Renting is a good way to figure out whether you really need one. It's also a good way to figure out which features you need. When you are looking, they'll really make your head spin with all those add-ons and features. Some of them sound good, but will you use them?

You can test drive with a rental. For example, you may find that you never look at your stored messages. Maybe this is a feature you don't need. You can save a few bucks by ditching the stored message feature when you buy your own.

- It's just a temporary thing. Some people just need one for a certain period of time.

How many electronic gadgets have you bought, used for a couple of months, and then put away in the closet for somebody else to find? If you only need one for a couple of months, why buy when you can rent?

For example, maybe you're traveling, but you don't want to be too far from clients or friends. You might be going someplace where you won't have Internet access. In that case, a pager will keep you in touch.

For those who travel for work, you might want to lease while you are on the road. There are features like nationwide paging that will save you money when you are away from home. You can also rent locally in the area where you'll be working.

Small business owners find leasing to be convenient for outfitting their employees. It is not always cost effective to buy everyone a pager.

Leasing pagers has lots of benefits for lots of people. Most importantly, it's good to know that you can rent the newer models. No matter why you're getting one, you might want to check it out before you buy.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Leasing-Pagers---Try-It-Before-You-Buy-It/46319

An Introduction to Many Benefits of Thermal Printers

Heat is the process that thermal printers use to create an image. Thermal printers consists of two types, thermal transfer (also known as thermal wax) and direct thermal (also known as thermal autochrome). Special paper that is chemically treated is used by direct thermal printers, and when heat is applied to the paper it changes colors.

The paper is pulled across a heating element within the printer through the use of rollers, and for the section that it is heated the paper changes color to form images or text. Conversely, thermal transfer printers hold the ink on a ribbon in place of on the paper itself which is then transferred to the paper when it is heated. Both designs utilize similar types of heating elements.

Various Uses of Thermal Printers

Thermal transfer printers are more likely to be utilized to create labels, mainly clothing tags, as well as barcodes because of it's durability and speed of the images it creates, particularly in preventing water damage. Various kinds of labels use numerous types of inks depending on the kind of material it is being printed on.

In the case of direct thermal printers, mostly they are utilized for industrial use predominantly because of their speed. The primary advantage for a direct thermal printer is that the only consumable is the paper that is used. Even though this type of paper may be expensive, there is no requirement to purchase or store ink, and it is the only item that requires replacing in order to keep the printer running smoothly.

Because of this, direct thermal printers are quite often utilized to print out receipts from various machines such as credit card machines and cash registers. Early technology such as older fax machines also often utilized direct thermal printing technology, however this type of method has mostly been phased out.

Thermal Printers -- Pros and Cons

Thermal printers are well known for their high printing speed, which make some very suitable for some business applications. They do not have a lot of moving parts, therefore they are extremely reliable. Additionally, they have images that are durable, particularly thermal transfer printers.

In the past, images generated from direct thermal printers were prone to distortion or fading when exposed to water, heat, light or friction, however recent technological advancements have made them readable for periods of up to 50 years or more. Another advantage of direct thermal printers is that they have no other supply needs except for paper.

However, unlike inkjet printers and laser printers thermal printers have lower printing quality than these other styles. Thermal transfer printers only need the same amount of ink ribbon for any page, regardless of how much material is actually printed on it.

Additionally, because direct thermal printers only have the ability to print just one or two colors, they are not ideal for more detailed print jobs. Also, direct thermal printers require special paper, which tends to be more expensive than normal paper.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/An-Introduction-to-Many-Benefits-of-Thermal-Printers/46869

Mobile phones

Mobile phones as a status symbol have been a closely-observed phenomenon since mobile handsets became affordable to the general public, as well as brand names like Motorola began marketing sleeker, more stylish cell phones, using young people and executives as their target demographic. Many children in schools consider their mobile phones to be an icon of their popularity amongst their peers (although I have to say, at that age I wouldn't have had anybody to call except my parents - which wouldn't exactly have branded me one of the 'cool cats') - the newer the phone, the cooler you are; and woe betide the kids who get hand-me-downs from parents and are left with just a phone, sans-color display, sans-camera. These schoolyard equations have, to a smaller extent, passed on into the business world - just as salesmen are often judged even before they've emerged from their car, a modern businessman or woman spotted using a weighty brick of a mobile phone would no doubt be considered as giving off the wrong impression.

So then, why has such a small object been granted such significance? When we see cheap mobiles, do we think, "Cheap owner"? Once again the answer is in marketing - with TV adverts portraying celebrities and beautiful people parading around with their shiny new handsets, phones featuring in rap music videos, and more and more mobile phone shops springing up in every location possible, it's being driven into us, day in, day out, on an unconscious level that the mobile phone we choose for ourselves in some way reflects who we are.

However, the good news is that even the newest handsets are affordable to the average everyday consumer. Even the most recent contract mobile phones can be had for free if you're willing to pay the monthly line rental for at least 12 months. So there's no need to fret any more about what people are going to think when you pull out your *gasp* 3-year old phone in public. Fantastic.


http://www.articleshelf.com/Article/Mobile-phones/47332