The laptop market is an overcrowded field with literally hundreds of offerings available to consumers. Some laptops are very basic models with Celeron processors while others are full blown multimedia powerhouses. Featured here are three top models from the “plain Jane” to the middle of the road, to the fully loaded.
Dell Inspiron 1200 – It is possible to purchase a notebook computer for considerably less than $1000 and Dell offers several models below this threshold including the Inspiron 1200. This particular model is the price leader amongst laptops especially when rebates are figured in. A recent Dell advertisement has been touting the Inspiron 1200 for just $499 after a $150For rebate is received. What do you get with this model? Not a whole lot: an Intel Celeron M Processor 350 (1.30 GHz/1MB Cache/400MHz FSB); Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition; 30GB Ultra ATA Hard Drive; and 24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive. Surprisingly, Dell does include wireless capabilities in the form of a networking card.
HP Compaq nx9600 Notebook – HP’s acquisition of Compaq has produced a nice line up of notebook computers including this particular model geared toward those consumers replacing their desktop computer. Retailing at just over $1300 [before $100 rebate] this midrange offering is nicely loaded as it offers a 17" screen; Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition; an Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading Technology; a 40 GB hard drive; a 12 cell battery; wireless connectivity; and graphics oriented software.
Sony VAIO FS675P/H Notebookspacer – The Sony Vaio name is typically associated with high performing, high priced offerings. The VAIO® FS675P/H Notebookspacer fits the bill as this workhorse retails at just under $2000. Chief features of this model are: an Intel Pentium M Processor 750 (1.86 Ghz); Microsoft Windows XP Professional; DVD+R Double Layer/DVD+-RW; 1GB RAM; and a 100GB hard drive. The screen is 15.4" Widescreen5 LCD with XBRITE™ Technology and all of Sony’s top digital software for photography, video and audio are included as standard equipment.
All three models attract different types of consumers, but each model is a standout in its respective class. Consumers are the winner when it comes to shopping for a laptop as prices continue to drop, new features are added, and technology improves with every new model marketed.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/3-Hot-Selling-Notebook-Computers/4381
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer
After twelve years of owning desktop computers, I finally opted for a laptop so I would no longer be chained to my desk. After months of research and weighing various makes and models, I settled on the Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer. This particular model has exceeded all of my expectations and at a price that is hundreds of dollars lower than many competing brands.
For several months I agonized over my next computer purchase. I knew I needed to be more mobile and only a notebook computer would permit me to take my "show on the road." Still, the decision making process was not easy as the number of different makes and models out there is mind boggling. Ultimately, I settled on a Dell in part because of previous good experience with the company as well as affordability of their product line.
The model I chose was the Inspiron 600m. As with almost everything that Dell builds, it is a "new" model; at least the 600m designation is. That is one of the confusing things about Dell and some other manufacturers: every month Dell introduces new models and you need a scorecard to compare one model with all the others. Fortunately, Dell's website allows you to do just that.
Key features of the Inspiron 600m include:
Lightweight: Just over five pounds.
Mobile Centrino Technology is standard.
14.1 inch screen
Pentium M 725 Processor
24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive
256MB DDR SDRAM 1 Dimm Memory
Wireless Network Card
Extended Battery
Microsoft Windows XP Home Addition
WordPerfect Productivity Pack
I kept my computer fairly basic but I did opt for the latest version of Norton Security, a surge protected cable, a wirless router, and a wireless mouse. I selected the wireless mouse as I thought the keyboard's mouse would be difficult to use. After two days I quit using the wireless mouse as I quickly got used to the built in one.
The screen is bright and the keyboard is solid. The mouse keys, however are noisy, almost clunky; you wonder if Dell could have used a quieter spring for each key.
The battery lasts at least four hours without recharging and when I do need to recharge I can go from nearly dead to fully charged in less than one hour.
For the price -- I paid just over $1100. for everything including shipping and local taxes -- the Dell cannot be beat. I haven't had to call customer service yet, so I cannot comment on that although in years past your call would be routed to a technician in India. This model comes with a standard one year limited warranty; I avoided a later sales pitch over the phone to get a three year warranty. Their top of the line warranty sends a technician to your house to fix your computer, so it can be option for those of you who do not want to ship -- and thereby lose the use of -- your computer back to Dell for repairs.
You will find the Inspiron 600m to be adequate for standard business work. Check out their myriad of other models if you do plenty of graphic design or if you need a larger screen. I am happy with the 14.1 screen, but you may prefer their 17" model.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Dell-Inspiron-600m-Notebook-Computer/4370
For several months I agonized over my next computer purchase. I knew I needed to be more mobile and only a notebook computer would permit me to take my "show on the road." Still, the decision making process was not easy as the number of different makes and models out there is mind boggling. Ultimately, I settled on a Dell in part because of previous good experience with the company as well as affordability of their product line.
The model I chose was the Inspiron 600m. As with almost everything that Dell builds, it is a "new" model; at least the 600m designation is. That is one of the confusing things about Dell and some other manufacturers: every month Dell introduces new models and you need a scorecard to compare one model with all the others. Fortunately, Dell's website allows you to do just that.
Key features of the Inspiron 600m include:
Lightweight: Just over five pounds.
Mobile Centrino Technology is standard.
14.1 inch screen
Pentium M 725 Processor
24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive
256MB DDR SDRAM 1 Dimm Memory
Wireless Network Card
Extended Battery
Microsoft Windows XP Home Addition
WordPerfect Productivity Pack
I kept my computer fairly basic but I did opt for the latest version of Norton Security, a surge protected cable, a wirless router, and a wireless mouse. I selected the wireless mouse as I thought the keyboard's mouse would be difficult to use. After two days I quit using the wireless mouse as I quickly got used to the built in one.
The screen is bright and the keyboard is solid. The mouse keys, however are noisy, almost clunky; you wonder if Dell could have used a quieter spring for each key.
The battery lasts at least four hours without recharging and when I do need to recharge I can go from nearly dead to fully charged in less than one hour.
For the price -- I paid just over $1100. for everything including shipping and local taxes -- the Dell cannot be beat. I haven't had to call customer service yet, so I cannot comment on that although in years past your call would be routed to a technician in India. This model comes with a standard one year limited warranty; I avoided a later sales pitch over the phone to get a three year warranty. Their top of the line warranty sends a technician to your house to fix your computer, so it can be option for those of you who do not want to ship -- and thereby lose the use of -- your computer back to Dell for repairs.
You will find the Inspiron 600m to be adequate for standard business work. Check out their myriad of other models if you do plenty of graphic design or if you need a larger screen. I am happy with the 14.1 screen, but you may prefer their 17" model.
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Dell-Inspiron-600m-Notebook-Computer/4370
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Linsksys CIT310 Yahoo Phone
Yahoo hasn’t made as large of an impact on the world of VoIP as Skype or Vonage has, but that doesn’t mean it did not try to leave its mark. Using the popular Yahoo! Messenger service one can get pretty simple VoIP service that is also pretty cheap. However, if you don’t have a phone that works with the system you are limited to a microphone and speakers or a headset in terms of actually talking on the phone using the service.
That is where the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo Phone comes into play. It is the only official phone on the market that is designed to work in sync with Yahoo’s internet phone service. And it works with it very well. Installation is pretty simple: it plugs in through a USB port and there are minimal amounts of software you will need to install in order to get the phone to work.
Once it is installed, the Linksys CIT310 phone connects directly with your Yahoo Messenger. You can, for example, see when your friends are online through the handset on the phone (it is cordless, of course), you can set your online status, check the weather and use the Yahoo! yellow pages functionality (meaning you can search for businesses in your area right from the handset).
Calls made over the Linksys CIT310 are crystal-clear, much higher quality than you would get from a headset using the Yahoo! phone services. Unfortunately this clarity somewhat depends on your Internet connection, you’ll definitely need a high quality high-speed internet set-up (DSL, Cable, etc.) in order to use the phone properly. You pretty much need to keep the Internet connection clear, though, no major downloading or anything else heavy on the network going on when you are using the phone.
The handset on the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo phone is pretty powerful in terms of range. The range goes up to 100 feet and offers the same crystal clear clarity all the way for those 100 feet. Walls and buildings can cut up the range a little bit, but for the most part this badboy will go just about anywhere you want to go; it is a lot more powerful than many normal cordless phones.
In fact, the Linksys CIT310 not only has compatibility with Yahoo Messenger phone services, it also works as a cordless phone all of its own. It is a dual-mode phone, meaning that it can work not only through Yahoo Messenger but also just by plugging it into your phoneline.
At about 80 dollars the phone is a little bit expensive, but it offers plenty of functionality for the price. Especially since the Yahoo phone system it works with it pretty cheap: you can get your own phone number through Yahoo Messenger for a minimal $3.00 a month, and long distance services are only $0.02 for anywhere in the US, cheaper to some countries (like Canada, only $0.01 a minute). It is a powerful system and very portable, if you want to use Yahoo phone services the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo phone is an excellent addition.
http://www.nceita.org/linsksys-cit310-yahoo-phone.html
That is where the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo Phone comes into play. It is the only official phone on the market that is designed to work in sync with Yahoo’s internet phone service. And it works with it very well. Installation is pretty simple: it plugs in through a USB port and there are minimal amounts of software you will need to install in order to get the phone to work.
Once it is installed, the Linksys CIT310 phone connects directly with your Yahoo Messenger. You can, for example, see when your friends are online through the handset on the phone (it is cordless, of course), you can set your online status, check the weather and use the Yahoo! yellow pages functionality (meaning you can search for businesses in your area right from the handset).
Calls made over the Linksys CIT310 are crystal-clear, much higher quality than you would get from a headset using the Yahoo! phone services. Unfortunately this clarity somewhat depends on your Internet connection, you’ll definitely need a high quality high-speed internet set-up (DSL, Cable, etc.) in order to use the phone properly. You pretty much need to keep the Internet connection clear, though, no major downloading or anything else heavy on the network going on when you are using the phone.
The handset on the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo phone is pretty powerful in terms of range. The range goes up to 100 feet and offers the same crystal clear clarity all the way for those 100 feet. Walls and buildings can cut up the range a little bit, but for the most part this badboy will go just about anywhere you want to go; it is a lot more powerful than many normal cordless phones.
In fact, the Linksys CIT310 not only has compatibility with Yahoo Messenger phone services, it also works as a cordless phone all of its own. It is a dual-mode phone, meaning that it can work not only through Yahoo Messenger but also just by plugging it into your phoneline.
At about 80 dollars the phone is a little bit expensive, but it offers plenty of functionality for the price. Especially since the Yahoo phone system it works with it pretty cheap: you can get your own phone number through Yahoo Messenger for a minimal $3.00 a month, and long distance services are only $0.02 for anywhere in the US, cheaper to some countries (like Canada, only $0.01 a minute). It is a powerful system and very portable, if you want to use Yahoo phone services the Linksys CIT310 Yahoo phone is an excellent addition.
http://www.nceita.org/linsksys-cit310-yahoo-phone.html
Microsoft Zune Review
Microsoft would badly like to take away Apple’s title as king of the MP3 player world, and the Microsoft Zune is their attempt to take the crown for itself. This is their first foray into the world of MP3 players, and only time will tell if the Zune line of products will one day be able to one day take the top spot.
The Zune offers an impressive 30 GB hard drive, meaning you can fit a whole lot of media on there. It’s got a decent sized 3 inch screen, good for both pictures as well as video. The graphical UI is pretty simple and straight forward, as well as nice to look at, so there isn’t too much of a learning curve when you first pick up a Zune and start playing all sorts of music and videos, as well as looking at your pictures.
It definitely looks pretty stylish and comes in three colors: black, white and brown. Nothing too terribly fancy but definitely appealing to the eye. This is all done in a package that isn’t too large and isn’t too small, it’s a pretty nice fit, actually. It is a bit bigger than a similarly sized iPod, but oh well.
Like the iPod the Zune comes with its own online store: the Zune Marketplace. Here you can buy all the music that you want and put it into place on your handy dandy Microsoft Zune. It runs following a set-up similar to Napster and other online music stores, part of the problem is, though, that currently there are no movies for sale through the Zune Marketplace, you can only buy music.
Another problem with the Zune is the fact that it isn’t backwards compatible with Windows Media Audio (WMA). Basically it only works with WMA-DRM 9.1 and up files; if you’ve got WMA-DRM 9.0 or less, well, it isn’t going to work with the Microsoft Zune. Even a bigger slap in the face is the fact that it doesn’t WMV files for movies. Considering that this is the official video format for the Windows Media Player and other Microsoft products, this really doesn’t make any sense to me. Since WMV is known for being able to produce high quality video playback in a smaller size than, say, the MP4, this is a real let down.
One of the highlights of the Microsoft Zune is its wi-fi compatibility. This makes it very simple to share files between two Zune players. Of course, both people have to have the Zune in order to do this wi-fi sharing, which means you’ll have to hope you have friends who also use the Zune to share. The shared files also have limited playback; you can only play them every so often.
At $250 the Microsoft Zune isn’t too badly priced, and it is pretty easy to use. The biggest drawback is definitely its playback support; it only supports some files and there are a lot of major file formats that can’t be played, particularly when it comes to video files.
http://www.nceita.org/microsoft-zune-review.html
The Zune offers an impressive 30 GB hard drive, meaning you can fit a whole lot of media on there. It’s got a decent sized 3 inch screen, good for both pictures as well as video. The graphical UI is pretty simple and straight forward, as well as nice to look at, so there isn’t too much of a learning curve when you first pick up a Zune and start playing all sorts of music and videos, as well as looking at your pictures.
It definitely looks pretty stylish and comes in three colors: black, white and brown. Nothing too terribly fancy but definitely appealing to the eye. This is all done in a package that isn’t too large and isn’t too small, it’s a pretty nice fit, actually. It is a bit bigger than a similarly sized iPod, but oh well.
Like the iPod the Zune comes with its own online store: the Zune Marketplace. Here you can buy all the music that you want and put it into place on your handy dandy Microsoft Zune. It runs following a set-up similar to Napster and other online music stores, part of the problem is, though, that currently there are no movies for sale through the Zune Marketplace, you can only buy music.
Another problem with the Zune is the fact that it isn’t backwards compatible with Windows Media Audio (WMA). Basically it only works with WMA-DRM 9.1 and up files; if you’ve got WMA-DRM 9.0 or less, well, it isn’t going to work with the Microsoft Zune. Even a bigger slap in the face is the fact that it doesn’t WMV files for movies. Considering that this is the official video format for the Windows Media Player and other Microsoft products, this really doesn’t make any sense to me. Since WMV is known for being able to produce high quality video playback in a smaller size than, say, the MP4, this is a real let down.
One of the highlights of the Microsoft Zune is its wi-fi compatibility. This makes it very simple to share files between two Zune players. Of course, both people have to have the Zune in order to do this wi-fi sharing, which means you’ll have to hope you have friends who also use the Zune to share. The shared files also have limited playback; you can only play them every so often.
At $250 the Microsoft Zune isn’t too badly priced, and it is pretty easy to use. The biggest drawback is definitely its playback support; it only supports some files and there are a lot of major file formats that can’t be played, particularly when it comes to video files.
http://www.nceita.org/microsoft-zune-review.html
Sony Playstation 3 Review
Ever since the launch of the original Sony Playstation all the way back in 1996 Sony has been a force to reckon with in the world of console games. The Playstation 2 only served to solidify its base as the premier gaming console out there. Now the Playstation 3 is the newest Playstation on the market.
The Sony Playstation 3 certainly has a lot to offer. It’s got a beautiful and slick design that makes it very attractive sitting there in your media center. It can both lie horizontally and stand up vertically, making it easier to fit in wherever you need it than ever. Just based on looks it is certainly a nice piece of technology.
Add to that excellent design plenty of functionality. It comes in two versions; one has a 30 GB hard drive and the other has a 60 GB hard drive, more than you are going to get on many notebook computers. That’s a lot of storage punch and definitely one of the highlights of the Sony Playstation 3.
Just as the Sony Playstation 2 was backwards compatible with Playstation One games, so is the Playstation 3 backwards compatible with both Playstation 2 and Playstation One games. This is really nice, no having to get rid of all your old games because they won’t work with your new console: they work perfectly with your console, no problem whatsoever.
Sony is of course behind the new Blu Ray technology which is hoping to win as the next generation of digital video technology (its main competitor is the HD-DVD), and the Sony Playstation 3 can play Blu Ray disks. Don’t worry, though, it is also backwards compatible with old school DVDs. In fact, hoping to boost sales of the new PS3 Sony is offering 5 free Blu Ray movies with the purchase of a Sony Playstation 3 these days.
The Sony Playstation 3 boasts unbelievable graphics, it also boasts excellent online play through the Playstation Network that is also 100% free. That means you can play games with other players with absolutely no cost, unlike some other major consoles out there. The online system is also built into the console; no need for any additional components.
There are a couple of problems with the system. For one thing, the controller doesn’t have any rumble capability (something which has been around since the PSOne). This problem will most likely be fixed, but it is somewhat of an annoyance if you are used to the rumble functionality. It uses BlueTooth technology for the remote, which is good, but it has no infrared port on the device, meaning that you can’t use a traditional universal remote for DVD watching; it has to be BlueTooth. These are a bit more expensive and this is a drawback for the PS3.
The biggest single drawback to the Sony Playstation 3 is definitely the price. It is the most expensive console by far on the market, and the games available on it still don’t set it apart from the pack compared to, say, the X-Box 360 or the Nintendo Wii. However the underlying technology is incredibly powerful and sophisticated, so there is definitely room for the games available to improve.
http://www.nceita.org/sony-playstation-3-review.html
The Sony Playstation 3 certainly has a lot to offer. It’s got a beautiful and slick design that makes it very attractive sitting there in your media center. It can both lie horizontally and stand up vertically, making it easier to fit in wherever you need it than ever. Just based on looks it is certainly a nice piece of technology.
Add to that excellent design plenty of functionality. It comes in two versions; one has a 30 GB hard drive and the other has a 60 GB hard drive, more than you are going to get on many notebook computers. That’s a lot of storage punch and definitely one of the highlights of the Sony Playstation 3.
Just as the Sony Playstation 2 was backwards compatible with Playstation One games, so is the Playstation 3 backwards compatible with both Playstation 2 and Playstation One games. This is really nice, no having to get rid of all your old games because they won’t work with your new console: they work perfectly with your console, no problem whatsoever.
Sony is of course behind the new Blu Ray technology which is hoping to win as the next generation of digital video technology (its main competitor is the HD-DVD), and the Sony Playstation 3 can play Blu Ray disks. Don’t worry, though, it is also backwards compatible with old school DVDs. In fact, hoping to boost sales of the new PS3 Sony is offering 5 free Blu Ray movies with the purchase of a Sony Playstation 3 these days.
The Sony Playstation 3 boasts unbelievable graphics, it also boasts excellent online play through the Playstation Network that is also 100% free. That means you can play games with other players with absolutely no cost, unlike some other major consoles out there. The online system is also built into the console; no need for any additional components.
There are a couple of problems with the system. For one thing, the controller doesn’t have any rumble capability (something which has been around since the PSOne). This problem will most likely be fixed, but it is somewhat of an annoyance if you are used to the rumble functionality. It uses BlueTooth technology for the remote, which is good, but it has no infrared port on the device, meaning that you can’t use a traditional universal remote for DVD watching; it has to be BlueTooth. These are a bit more expensive and this is a drawback for the PS3.
The biggest single drawback to the Sony Playstation 3 is definitely the price. It is the most expensive console by far on the market, and the games available on it still don’t set it apart from the pack compared to, say, the X-Box 360 or the Nintendo Wii. However the underlying technology is incredibly powerful and sophisticated, so there is definitely room for the games available to improve.
http://www.nceita.org/sony-playstation-3-review.html
Monday, November 12, 2007
Marine Electronics
Autopilots The first self-steering gear was introduced in the 1920's to control model yachts but it was not until 1948 that the principle was applied to full scale yachts. Standing at the helm for lengthy periods, monitoring instruments and keeping a good look out can be very tiring. An autopilot relieves the helmsman from steering the correct course leaving him free to maintain a proper watch. The autopilot can be set to either steer a compass course or a course relative to the wind. A fluxgate compass or electronic wind indicator feeds information to a microprocessor which then makes the necessary rudder movements to return the vessel to it's required course. The mechanical power is applied to the rudder by either electric linear activators, hydraulic pumps or rotary drives. GPS/Chart plotters can be used to input navigational instructions to the autopilot.
Battery Chargers will keep batteries fully charged thereby extending their working life.
Chart Plotters Typically a chart plotter consists of an antenna, mounted high on the boat, to track GPS signals and a display unit sited either at the at the navigation station or the helm of the vessel. The vessels position is sent from the antenna to the display unit which in turn shows it graphically on the chart. The Chart itself will look similar to it's paper equivalent and show depth, land mass, navigational aids such as bouys and potential dangers in the form of wrecks and obstructions. The user can add way points to the chart and zoom in and out of the display. Chart plotters can be connected to drive an autopilot and/or send GPS data to a fish finder or radar. They can also interface with a laptop enabling complex passage planning to be done away from the boat and then entered into the chart plotter after arriving at the boat.
Magnetic Transmitting Compasses work like traditional compasses using magnets to determine the vessels orientation to the earth's magnetic field they then transmit the boats heading to an electronic display. They make steering easier than with conventional compasses because they display steadier headings and do not suffer from the "lag" that occurs when making a turn. They can interface with chart plotters, autopilots and radar. Fluxgate Compasses consist of two pieces of readily saturated magnetic material with coils wound round them in opposing directions. AC current is passed through the coils and the material is saturated in one direction and then the other. The earth's magnetic field affects slightly the time at which saturation occurs, earlier in one coil and later in the other. The difference is then calculated giving an output proportional to the earth's magnetic field. They are accurate to 0.1 of a degree. Their output can be displayed digitally to the helmsman or they can interface with autopilots, chart plotters and radar.
Echo Sounders work on the same principle as sonar. A transducer emits a narrow beam of high frequency sound. This is reflected by any solid objects and the time between transmission and receipt of the echo is measured. The speed of sound through water is know and so the range or distance to the sea bed can be calculated. That is then displayed in metres. Forward Looking Sonar (FLS) enables you to see the underwater hazards before you're actually on top of them. A typical range for a FLS is 150 metres.
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a piece of equipment designed to float free of a vessel in distress. It then sends a radio signal that can be detected by Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) satellites. They relay a message to a ground station that in turn can instigate a search and rescue operation.
Fish Finders use the same technology as sonar. A narrow beam of high frequency sound is transmitted by a transducer, this is reflected by solid objects such as the sea bed. By developing this technology fishfinders provide displays that show where the fish are and they can differentiate between bait fish and larger species
Global Positioning System (GPS Receivers) - This system was originally designed for military purposes and is owned and operated by the United States Department of Defence. 24 satellites are arranged in a "birdcage" around the globe, they are positioned in such a way that at any place on the earth's surface a direct line of sight can be established to a minimum of 4 satellites. A fix is obtained by measuring accurately the distance between a satellite and the GPS receiver at a precise time. Because the exact position of the satellite is known, these distances provide position lines which are converted by a microprocessor within the GPS receiver to read outs of latitude and longitude.
The log is used to measure the boats speed through the water. A paddle wheel or impeller, mounted below the waterline is turned by the flow of water, this generates electrical impulses that are fed to a microprocessor that displays both speed and distance run.
Inverters - On most boats today you will find domestic equipment of one sort or another. For on board entertainment there are televisions and stereo systems. With the popularity of chart plotters comes the PC or laptop. Maintenance often requires the use of power tools. Liveaboards might have a washing machine, dishwasher or microwave. Can take 12v, 24v or 48v supply and convert it to a stable 110 v or 220v AC supply.
Navtex can perhaps best be described as a continuously updated telex service providing navigation and weather information within specified areas. An on board receiver, tuned to 518kHz, the worldwide Navtex frequency, if left turned on will either print out or display the latest massages sent from a local station. The service is available up to 400 miles from the coast.
Radar enables you to see what otherwise would be invisible. They offer greatest benefit at night and in fog or rain and are of particular value when close to shore or in busy shipping lanes. They consist of an antenna and a display. The antenna sends out a stream of RF energy which is reflected back off hard objects. When this energy is bounced back it is converted to a signal which displayed to the user. The antenna rotates every few seconds, the display continuously calculates the direction of the antenna and so a precise bearing to the target is calculated. The time is measured for the energy to be reflected and so the distance of the target is also displayed.
Satellite Phones consist of an antenna, a modem and a normal handset. They are powered by an iridium battery. Their range is anywhere covered by in Inmarsat Mini-M satellite. Voice, fax, email and data can be transmitted.
Satellite TV requires an antenna and of course a television. Reception is available within a "footprint" which is based on EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power) of a transmitting satellite. The EUTELSAT together with the two ASTRA satellites cover Europe. NILESAT and the two ARABSATs cover Africa and the Middle East. Good coverage is also available in North, Central and Southern America.
SSB Radio has a range of several thousand miles. You will need an FFC license, or the equivalent in whichever country you plan to operate it. Power consumption is a consideration. Up to 100 Watts may be required for transmission. SSB radio requires several items of equipment. A transceiver capable of SSB operation, An antenna, this must be 8 metres long and in practice most boats use a backstay or shroud for the purpose having fitted the necessary insulators. An antenna tuner matched to the transceiver model. If you want to send email you will also need and radio modem and computer.
VHF Radio The power required to transmit is minimal, all sets have the option of transmitting on either 1 Watt or 25 Watts and the lower power should be used whenever possible. Unlike telephones that allow you to both talk and hear at the same time most VHF sets require you to press a transmit button prior to talking. This is known as simplex. Duplex sets are available but are much more expensive. VHF radio waves travel in straight lines so the aerial should be mounted as high as possible, preferably at the masthead.
Ken Jones runs a Sailing Site. More information about marine electronics can be found here To find manufacturers or suppliers of marine electronics in your area visit the Marine Directory.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Jones
Battery Chargers will keep batteries fully charged thereby extending their working life.
Chart Plotters Typically a chart plotter consists of an antenna, mounted high on the boat, to track GPS signals and a display unit sited either at the at the navigation station or the helm of the vessel. The vessels position is sent from the antenna to the display unit which in turn shows it graphically on the chart. The Chart itself will look similar to it's paper equivalent and show depth, land mass, navigational aids such as bouys and potential dangers in the form of wrecks and obstructions. The user can add way points to the chart and zoom in and out of the display. Chart plotters can be connected to drive an autopilot and/or send GPS data to a fish finder or radar. They can also interface with a laptop enabling complex passage planning to be done away from the boat and then entered into the chart plotter after arriving at the boat.
Magnetic Transmitting Compasses work like traditional compasses using magnets to determine the vessels orientation to the earth's magnetic field they then transmit the boats heading to an electronic display. They make steering easier than with conventional compasses because they display steadier headings and do not suffer from the "lag" that occurs when making a turn. They can interface with chart plotters, autopilots and radar. Fluxgate Compasses consist of two pieces of readily saturated magnetic material with coils wound round them in opposing directions. AC current is passed through the coils and the material is saturated in one direction and then the other. The earth's magnetic field affects slightly the time at which saturation occurs, earlier in one coil and later in the other. The difference is then calculated giving an output proportional to the earth's magnetic field. They are accurate to 0.1 of a degree. Their output can be displayed digitally to the helmsman or they can interface with autopilots, chart plotters and radar.
Echo Sounders work on the same principle as sonar. A transducer emits a narrow beam of high frequency sound. This is reflected by any solid objects and the time between transmission and receipt of the echo is measured. The speed of sound through water is know and so the range or distance to the sea bed can be calculated. That is then displayed in metres. Forward Looking Sonar (FLS) enables you to see the underwater hazards before you're actually on top of them. A typical range for a FLS is 150 metres.
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a piece of equipment designed to float free of a vessel in distress. It then sends a radio signal that can be detected by Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) satellites. They relay a message to a ground station that in turn can instigate a search and rescue operation.
Fish Finders use the same technology as sonar. A narrow beam of high frequency sound is transmitted by a transducer, this is reflected by solid objects such as the sea bed. By developing this technology fishfinders provide displays that show where the fish are and they can differentiate between bait fish and larger species
Global Positioning System (GPS Receivers) - This system was originally designed for military purposes and is owned and operated by the United States Department of Defence. 24 satellites are arranged in a "birdcage" around the globe, they are positioned in such a way that at any place on the earth's surface a direct line of sight can be established to a minimum of 4 satellites. A fix is obtained by measuring accurately the distance between a satellite and the GPS receiver at a precise time. Because the exact position of the satellite is known, these distances provide position lines which are converted by a microprocessor within the GPS receiver to read outs of latitude and longitude.
The log is used to measure the boats speed through the water. A paddle wheel or impeller, mounted below the waterline is turned by the flow of water, this generates electrical impulses that are fed to a microprocessor that displays both speed and distance run.
Inverters - On most boats today you will find domestic equipment of one sort or another. For on board entertainment there are televisions and stereo systems. With the popularity of chart plotters comes the PC or laptop. Maintenance often requires the use of power tools. Liveaboards might have a washing machine, dishwasher or microwave. Can take 12v, 24v or 48v supply and convert it to a stable 110 v or 220v AC supply.
Navtex can perhaps best be described as a continuously updated telex service providing navigation and weather information within specified areas. An on board receiver, tuned to 518kHz, the worldwide Navtex frequency, if left turned on will either print out or display the latest massages sent from a local station. The service is available up to 400 miles from the coast.
Radar enables you to see what otherwise would be invisible. They offer greatest benefit at night and in fog or rain and are of particular value when close to shore or in busy shipping lanes. They consist of an antenna and a display. The antenna sends out a stream of RF energy which is reflected back off hard objects. When this energy is bounced back it is converted to a signal which displayed to the user. The antenna rotates every few seconds, the display continuously calculates the direction of the antenna and so a precise bearing to the target is calculated. The time is measured for the energy to be reflected and so the distance of the target is also displayed.
Satellite Phones consist of an antenna, a modem and a normal handset. They are powered by an iridium battery. Their range is anywhere covered by in Inmarsat Mini-M satellite. Voice, fax, email and data can be transmitted.
Satellite TV requires an antenna and of course a television. Reception is available within a "footprint" which is based on EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power) of a transmitting satellite. The EUTELSAT together with the two ASTRA satellites cover Europe. NILESAT and the two ARABSATs cover Africa and the Middle East. Good coverage is also available in North, Central and Southern America.
SSB Radio has a range of several thousand miles. You will need an FFC license, or the equivalent in whichever country you plan to operate it. Power consumption is a consideration. Up to 100 Watts may be required for transmission. SSB radio requires several items of equipment. A transceiver capable of SSB operation, An antenna, this must be 8 metres long and in practice most boats use a backstay or shroud for the purpose having fitted the necessary insulators. An antenna tuner matched to the transceiver model. If you want to send email you will also need and radio modem and computer.
VHF Radio The power required to transmit is minimal, all sets have the option of transmitting on either 1 Watt or 25 Watts and the lower power should be used whenever possible. Unlike telephones that allow you to both talk and hear at the same time most VHF sets require you to press a transmit button prior to talking. This is known as simplex. Duplex sets are available but are much more expensive. VHF radio waves travel in straight lines so the aerial should be mounted as high as possible, preferably at the masthead.
Ken Jones runs a Sailing Site. More information about marine electronics can be found here To find manufacturers or suppliers of marine electronics in your area visit the Marine Directory.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Jones
Why Has The Nintendo Wii Become So Popular In Japan
Two weeks after it was released in the US late last year, the Nintendo Wii came out in Japan, and consoles literally flew off the shelves. Reports received from areas such as Akihabara (the major electronics district of Tokyo) and Shinjuku (another massive shopping location) said that it was nearly impossible to walk down the sidewalk anywhere near an electronics store.
Without doubt, the most popular choice of games console by the Japanese people is the Nintendo Wii, although the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 have sold quite well in Japan. You couldn't escape the ads for Wii anywhere last year, and it seemed to be all Japanese video gamers were talking about. So, why is the Nintendo Wii, loved so much in Japan?
To start with, the Nintendo's have always outsold the other gaming systems in Japan. A survey noted that the Nintendo games tend to contain subject matter that was interesting to Japanese gamers. They said that the Nintendo games appeal to all ages and tastes.
The interactive features of the Nintendo Wii have become extremely popular. The Nintendo Wii makes use of a new remote sensing technology, which means that while playing a game, such as golf you can actually take a swing to hit the ball. Naturally, this technology has caught on with the non-gamers as well as gamers. Recent studies have discovered that more woman and older adults, demographic groups that don't normally go for games consoles in a big way, get a big kick out of the Wii's interactive features.
There was tons of promotion and advertising. It was almost impossible to get anywhere near an electronics store in Japan at the end of last year without noticing a guy dressed up like a giant remote controller, or kids of all ages crammed around a Wii demo console. The Wii was witnessed just about everywhere last year, much more so than any of the other consoles. With such a big push off, it had to be popular.
One of the main strengths of the Wii console is it sports games. Lately, sports games have become more and more popular in Japan, and they have started to outsell the more traditionally popular adventure games such as Legend of Zelda. The Wii offers great quality, realistic golf, baseball and tennis, among others. For the Japanese gamers, these are a great step forward from the sports games of yesterday.
Then again, maybe the massive popularity of the Wii in Japan is due to those wacky pictures in its safety manual. The Wii has been stirring up headlines worldwide mainly because of the Wii strap related incidents, and the Japanese safety manual covers everything. It's packed with comically rendered pictures of housewives whacking their husbands around the head with controllers, Wii-motes stuck halfway down a child's throats, and people injuring themselves in a variety of outlandish ways. Do a quick internet search yourself and see if you can find some pictures!
While the Nintendo Wii is undoubtedly the most popular new gaming system in Japan, the PlayStation 3 does come in as a close second. Some sources on the web believe that the PS3 does actually sell better, but it's hard to say for sure. Certainly, the new interactive features are a draw for Japanese people, who are always searching for something new to enhance their gaming experience.
For more information on the Nintendo Wii try visiting www.andallconsoles.com, a popular games console website that provides console news, tips, and game reviews for the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Lintern
Without doubt, the most popular choice of games console by the Japanese people is the Nintendo Wii, although the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 have sold quite well in Japan. You couldn't escape the ads for Wii anywhere last year, and it seemed to be all Japanese video gamers were talking about. So, why is the Nintendo Wii, loved so much in Japan?
To start with, the Nintendo's have always outsold the other gaming systems in Japan. A survey noted that the Nintendo games tend to contain subject matter that was interesting to Japanese gamers. They said that the Nintendo games appeal to all ages and tastes.
The interactive features of the Nintendo Wii have become extremely popular. The Nintendo Wii makes use of a new remote sensing technology, which means that while playing a game, such as golf you can actually take a swing to hit the ball. Naturally, this technology has caught on with the non-gamers as well as gamers. Recent studies have discovered that more woman and older adults, demographic groups that don't normally go for games consoles in a big way, get a big kick out of the Wii's interactive features.
There was tons of promotion and advertising. It was almost impossible to get anywhere near an electronics store in Japan at the end of last year without noticing a guy dressed up like a giant remote controller, or kids of all ages crammed around a Wii demo console. The Wii was witnessed just about everywhere last year, much more so than any of the other consoles. With such a big push off, it had to be popular.
One of the main strengths of the Wii console is it sports games. Lately, sports games have become more and more popular in Japan, and they have started to outsell the more traditionally popular adventure games such as Legend of Zelda. The Wii offers great quality, realistic golf, baseball and tennis, among others. For the Japanese gamers, these are a great step forward from the sports games of yesterday.
Then again, maybe the massive popularity of the Wii in Japan is due to those wacky pictures in its safety manual. The Wii has been stirring up headlines worldwide mainly because of the Wii strap related incidents, and the Japanese safety manual covers everything. It's packed with comically rendered pictures of housewives whacking their husbands around the head with controllers, Wii-motes stuck halfway down a child's throats, and people injuring themselves in a variety of outlandish ways. Do a quick internet search yourself and see if you can find some pictures!
While the Nintendo Wii is undoubtedly the most popular new gaming system in Japan, the PlayStation 3 does come in as a close second. Some sources on the web believe that the PS3 does actually sell better, but it's hard to say for sure. Certainly, the new interactive features are a draw for Japanese people, who are always searching for something new to enhance their gaming experience.
For more information on the Nintendo Wii try visiting www.andallconsoles.com, a popular games console website that provides console news, tips, and game reviews for the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Lintern
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