Saturday, January 31, 2009

Types of Software

Software is the medium by which a user directs the computer to perform certain task. Software is a collection of programs or procedures designed to perform specific operations. Software can be called as the set of programs, procedures or instructions which are used to operate computer and other related devices. Software in contrast to the hardware is the variable part of your computer. 

Software can broadly be classified into application software and system software. 

 Application software 
 
This is the software that performs all the applications which the user is interested to do. This software directly performs the instructions given by the user. The user can perform one or more specific tasks with the help of application software. Different types of educational software, business software, computer games and automation software used in automation industry are some types of application software. Productivity software such as word processors and spreadsheets, graphic software, CAD and industry specific software are some other types of application software. 

System software 

These are the programs which support the application software. These are the programs which help you to run the hardware and your compute system. Programs such as operating systems, device drivers, servers, utilities are some types of system software. System software provides an application environment to the application programmer and insulates him from the complex computer programs running behind the scene so that he can perform the tasks. 

Some also include programming software in this classification. This is the software which helps the application programmer to device different programs to run specific files or perform specific operations on a computer. The software assists the user to use different programming languages conveniently.  There are integrated development environment which help the user to do so. Besides this interpreter, compiler, debugger and linkers are other set of programming software. 

Different types of software can be purchased from the market where they are available in CDs or DVDs. They are also available as shareware, freeware, public domain software, liteware and as open source. 
Shareware are the software which are available for a limited trial period. This is a type of demonstration software which the user can use for a limited time. Once the time expires the user has to purchase the software for further use. Liteware on the other hand is the software which the user can download to perform certain task. But part of the software remains disabled till you purchase the product. 

Freeware is the software which you can freely download but they come with certain copyright restrictions. Similarly the public domain software is the one which you can download freely from different sites and there are no copyright restrictions attached to them.

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Home Security Camera Systems

There are different types of home security camera systems available in the market to choose from. Some security cameras are discrete in comparison to others while some are with more advanced features. There are home security cameras for indoors and outdoors and they come with colored or black and white monitors depending on the model that you choose and the technology that is used in the camera. 

The home security cameras are available for homes as dome cameras, bullet cameras, board cameras, computer based systems, stand alone systems and security monitors and security recorders. These cameras are available in the sizes which range form tiny ones to large devices which can be mounted on the ceilings or walls. Let us now discuss the features of each of these types in brief. 

Board cameras 
You will find these in ATMs. These are the most commonly used types which can be placed comfortable on the wall. They have a fixed lens and they are mounted on a board. You can buy this camera in a single piece and mount it in your home at a place which gives you the best surveillance and view. 

Computer based camera systems 
These are the surveillance system which requires a basic hardware and software. The best thing about such systems is that you can use your computer and convert it into a home security system. For this you will have to get a card with the help of which you can convert your personal computer into a home security camera system and use it to cover and record the activities in your house. 

Bullet cameras 
These are small in size. They are named so because they come in the bullet like casing. The lens is long and looks like a stick. They come with LED feature. Thus these cameras use the infra red rays to capture the activities even in dark. Depending on the model they can capture the activity within a range of two to five feet in dark. Due to this ability and the weather proof material of which they are made they are best suited for outdoor purposes. 

Dome cameras 
These are more discrete in outlook.  They are simple and appear like dome and hence the name dome camera. These are widely used in high threat security areas like the casinos. They are suitable for indoor purposes. You can use them for outdoors but then for them you will have to mount them in special casing. 

Security monitors and recorders 
These are common in showrooms and malls. These cameras record and display the activities on the television monitor. 

Each home security camera has a hub where the information is processed and stored. The home security camera systems are now available with more features which make the collection, monitoring and recording of the different activities more improved and mobile.  

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Stop Motion Animation

If you have ever seen cartoon show Gumby then you can probably guess what stop motion picture actually is. This is one of the animation techniques widely used these days by the animators. Using this technique a physically manipulated object can be made to move on its own. 

What stop motion animation does is that it saves you from endless repetitions which you have to make by drawing the same figure over and over again to show just one move. A slight variation in drawing can make the movement haphazard and disrupts the theme altogether. Stop motion animation helps you to overcome such boredoms associated so that you can develop your own animation which you can stream on you tube or share with your friends. 

What is required to develop a stop motion picture? 
This is a creative technique. All that you require to make your own stop motion picture is 
  • An idea
  • A character 
  • A theme or a plot 
  • A digital camera 
  • A computer which is capable of running multimedia software. 
  • A software 
  • This is a time consuming technique. Therefore to be a successful stop motion animator you also need some patience. 
  • Besides you also need paper, pencil, or a puppet which you can use as a central character in your theme. You can also use a dry erase board for this. It is more comfortable to use as you don't have to mess with the pencil and eraser work. 
How can you make your own stop motion animation? 
For this the most important thing is a character and a plot. You need a character to present your idea. You can use wire to make your character or puppets which you can directly buy from the market. You can also draw them using paper and pencil. Here you have to use your imagination. A plot makes the animation interesting. A simple yet interesting story keep the viewer glued to screen. Therefore lay down a simple plot which gives your character an importance. 

Make a set up. Place your character in the setup. Develop a background which brings out the character and the theme. Next, place your digital camera in front of the set so that you can start shooting pictures. Make sure that your camera is placed well and supported well. 

Remember that more the photos, smoother will be your video. Also make sure that the source of light is well placed so that you get clear pictures. Move the puppets or figures bit by bit. Continue to take pictures in different positions for every single move. Repeat the motion sequence till required movement of your character is complete. 

Save the pictures on your computer and use the movie software to complete the process and finalize your animation. 

Friday, January 23, 2009

Selecting the Best Accessories for iPhone 3 G

iPhone 3G is the most popular smartphone provided by the Apple Inc. which has changed the definition of smartphones. It is a complete smartphone which serves lots of purposes and makes your desires come true. This iPhone greatly requires handling with care so that it serves us life long. This smartphone is incomplete without the suitable accessories and so we should definitely look out for them to buy. These accessories greatly increase the productivity and enjoyment that you experience using your smartphone daily. These accessories are not only functional and durable but also stylish. 
The top iPhone accessories are:- 

1. Belkin Sport Armband
This is a comfortable armband with perfect fit and offers easy access. This is also water-resistant and hand washable armband. So now no need to worry for its falling from your hands!

2. MD-210 "iMuffs" Bluetooth Stereo Headphones
This is the stereo headphone having Bluetooth feature with the latest A2DP technology built into it. They provide the perfect and heavenly sound quality. 

3. iSkin Revo-Black
It is the protective case just like a second skin which has the electrostatic friendly design with solid protection, looks and design. It easily fits the iPhone. It covers all surfaces, ports, and controls. It also offers some shock resistance and has durable scratch-resistant polycarbonate cover to further protect your iPhone screen. 

4. Kensington Mini-Battery Pack
It is very portable and a great booster of energy and provides talk time of 3 hours. It is also called as the mini charger for your iPhone. It is small and easy to use and also has a LED Power meter which keeps track of the amount of charge left. 

5.Altec Lancing T612 Speakers
It is the digital speaker system that is fully compatible with iPhone 3G. It has the great looks as well as delivers delightfully clear sound with satisfyingly deep bass. If you get a call while listening, the music automatically pauses. These speakers ensure superior sound quality as it includes internal GSM shielding to keep its speakers from picking up potential irregular noises emitted by iPhone or other mobile devices. 

6. Apple Universal Dock
It is the most important or the basic accessory for iPhone 3G. It offers easy access to a USB port for charging and syncing your iPhone and for connecting to TV or speakers. This Apple Dock comes with the Apple Remote to choose a playlist, slideshow, or video and enjoy. You can also connect the Dock to a stereo or speakers using a stereo audio cable to play music from iPhone and also display photos or video from iPhone on a TV using a Composite AV Cable.

7. Apple USB Power Adapter
It is the most important, compact and very handy and is used to charge your iPhone when you are not near your computer. It is very simple to handle thus very useful for you. 
Thus these are the best accessories very useful for your iPhone 3G and thus enhance our fun and entertainment with safety.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Diving Computers

If scuba diving is your hobby then you must be aware how important it is to find out the dept of dive and the time for which you are at that dept. diving computers or dive computers or decompression meter are devices which can help you with this.

What are diving computers?
The diving computers are the devices which are used by the professional scuba divers to find out the time and dept of the dive. This device displays the dept at which you are and the time for which you are at that dept so that you can time yourself deep under water.

How do these diving computers work and what information do these computers provide you?
The diving computers work continuously. They calculate and recalculate the time and the dept on the basis of the partial pressure of the inert gases in your body. These computers measure the surrounding pressure of the gases so as to estimate the partial pressure of the inert gases in the body of the diver. For this the computer uses the decompression algorithm in the diver's tissues to estimate accurately the partial pressure of the gases.

Thus these computers give you the accurate and updated information of the dive time, decompression and the depts. At which you are. This computer also warns you about the excessive ascent rates and the decompression stops that you missed.

The computer also tells you about the oxygen toxicity, the temperature of the water, the pressure of the gas remaining in the diving gas cylinder. All this is of utmost help so that you can plan your time under water.

The modern day diving computers have the LCD screen which display the information related to the depth at which you are under water, dive time, the ascent rate, the decompression stop depth time required, the gas pressure in the diving cylinder and the estimated time for which the remaining gas in the cylinder is available depending on the consumption rate.

Some diving computers also warm the diver about the excessive ascent rate, when the diver exceeds the oxygen toxicity limits and missed decompression stops. Some diving computers also calculate the decompression schedule of other gases other than oxygen.

Which type is best for you?
This depends on the type of diver you are. Decide on the basis of the under water expeditions that you take. if you are a professional them opt for an advanced computer which give you the detailed information but if you are the one who take this as a recreational activity then you can search for more basic devices which can make our diving safe and enjoyable.

But make sure that you do not rely completely on these devices. This is because in the end they are machines and they can also go nonfunctional. So, ensure that you have some other device which can give you a back up while you are deep under water exploring the fauna and flora.

Monday, January 19, 2009

The Pros and Cons in Using Samsung G810 Model Mobile

Samsung G810 is the slider mobile phone with most of the latest features. It has the five megapixel camera and a standard battery that lasts long. The mobile phone cannot be called as the compact one. Keep it in your pocket and people can find out that you carry something.

The metal casing adds to the looks of the mobile phone. The camera is at the back which is covered by the lens cover. It is a five megapixel; camera with 3x zooms and xenon flash. You just have to slide the lens cover to shoot some dazzling clear snaps form this cell phone.

It has the 2.6 inch colored LCD screen and also the GPS navigation feature. The digital keyboard keys are big and soft which provide for easy operation. This is a pleasant feature as this minimizes the typing errors while you type the text or dial the number. It's fun to work with the big plastic keys. The keypad is visible even in the dark due to the white under light.

The 2.6 inch screen gives a good and clear display of the pictures and the text. The colors and brightness are perfect and you can distinguish the text and the menu on the screen even in the bright light. The experts and mobile savvy can customize the mobile according to their use.

Samsung G810 uses the standard 1200mAh battery. The mobile give the multi tasking feature. The backlight feature is well built and it adds to the utility of the mobile phone in the dark. The mobile is functional in offline mode. The cell phone support themes which can be changed over the period. It has per installed themes. You can download new themes from the internet, also a feature that this mobile gives you.

Music player in Samsung G810 add to the quality of the mobile device. To sound quality is great. You can switch to the rock, bass and thus change the equalizer according to your taste for music. The port is there so that you can connect the head phone and enjoy the music.

The mobile thus not provide you with the basic usage of the mobile that is communication but also give you the feature of smart photographing, internet access, Bluetooth and GPS navigation. It has inbuilt games. You can also download games on your mobile store them and enjoy them. It has 13 Mb flash memory. The memory card of microSD officially supports 2GB.

The big size is the only feature which gives a small dark spot to the mobile set. Other features are just as good as they can be.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Chromatography

Chromatography is made up of two words chroma which means color and graphein which means to write. Let's explore this wonderful concept used widely to separate different components in a mixture.

What is chromatography?
Chromatography is a process which helps to separate the components of a homogeneous mixture. The process thus helps in the quantification and analysis of the mixture and its components.

Scientists use this method to find out the different components that make up the mixture. This is a physical method which consists of the components distributed in two phases: mobile phase and the stationary phase.

The stationary phase is the mixture which is to be separated into its components and the mobile phase is the liquid which can be a solvent. The components in the mixture separate on the basis of the solubility and their differential affinity to the mobile and the stationary phase.

On the basis of the type of the stationary phase, the mobile phase and the separation mechanism, chromatography can be classified into different types.

Classification of chromatography
  1. On the basis of the stationary phase
  • Planar chromatography: the stationary phase is on a plane support.
  • Column chromatography: the stationary phase is in the form of a column.
2. On the basis of the mobile phase
  • Gas chromatography: when the mobile phase used is the gas.
  • Liquid chromatography: when the mobile phase used is a liquid.
3. On the basis of the separation mechanism

Classification on the basis of the separation mechanism depends on how the components are separated.
Ion exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, partition chromatography, exclusion chromatography and adsorption chromatography are some types of chromatography based on the separation mechanism.

What are the uses of chromatography technique?
It is used widely in the researches carried out in the field of biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry and manufacturing plants. The environmentalists use it to find out the level of pollutants in the water samples.

The forensic labs use it to detect, quantify, separate and identify the samples which they obtain at the site of crime. The technique is used in the manufacturing plants to purify the samples and the products.

What are the benefits of chromatography technique?
The primary benefit is that the complex mixtures can be separated into their components. Very small amount is required for this purpose. The other benefit is its simplicity. The method is simple and takes less time. The method does not require costly setups and no major expertise is needed to perform the task. It can separate in fact any substance soluble or volatile in nature if the right mix of solvent, absorbent material, fluid carrying the components and operating conditions are used.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Samsung F480 Tocco - A complete multimedia phone

This brand is popular among the mobile phone users. To keep up with the popularity the company has launched a Samsung F480 Tocco model. This small gadget provides you with all the multimedia features.

Tocco originates from the Italian word which means touch. The mobile goes with the name. It has a large touch screen. You can perform host of multimedia functions with Samsung F480 Tocco. All the multimedia features are there at the tip of your finger. You can surf the net, make videos and share it with your friends, take still photos. You can also download games and enjoy them on your phone.

This 3G phone indeed is a beauty to hold. This palm size phone come sin attractive designs and colors. The edges are soft and smooth. The keys are soft and easy to use. This is one of the smallest multimedia phones. It is light in weight also weighing about 90-100 gm.

The five megapixel camera is apt for taking stills and making videos. The phone comes with high resolution, flash and auto focus. These features enable you to take clear pictures and make videos. With this smart phone you can edit, store and play the videos that you make.

With internet feature you can upload videos and share them on you tube with your friends. The smile shot feature identifies when the person is smiling and takes the picture automatically. Auto focus and face detection feature help you to take professional pictures that you would always like to share with others.

The phonebook has photo call feature and can record 1000 entries. The handset can record for you thirty missed calls, thirty dialled numbers and thirty received numbers. You can set the ringtones according to your choice. It comes with the storage space of 228MB sufficient enough to store games, videos, music and pictures.

The EDGE technology allows you to access and transfer data at exceptionally high speed. Besides this the 3G HSDPA technology allows you to access internet and 3G video calling features. The Smartphone has inbuilt games.

You can also download the games of your choice and enjoy them on your palm size mobile phone. Tocco also support Bluetooth technology which allows for easy transfer and sharing of the games, wallpapers and files of importance.

The touch screen feature helps in easy navigation. You can almost customize your handset with drag and drop technology. The FM radio feature is for the one with music tooth. This 3G phone in fact is with all the latest technology. This is especially designed for the higher group of mobile market.

Friday, January 9, 2009

Safe Internet Games for Children

Different types of games are designed for kids so that they not only enjoy the stuff but also learn some basic principles of life. Games are an important medium to let your child learn. If you are searching for some educational non violent games that are both educating and entertaining then this list might help you.

Toon Town from Disney
This 3D game needs 100 Mb of your computer drive. The game starts by selecting the clothing and appearance of the toon you choose. Then the game gives your children the instructions as to how they have to defeat the Cogs. They can select cog and gags through the pop up box. Now they can use all their wits to proceed in the game. They have to buy the jellybeans by playing the Trolley Games.

Your kids can find out how happy or sad their toon is from the happy meter. This is the health meter which is displayed on the screen. Your kids can play the game solo or in group.

Sam and Max season one
This one is an adventure game. The protagonist is a rabbit wearing a long coat and working as the freelance police. This is game is with funny dialogues which are entertaining for your kids. A mix of entertainment, puzzles and adventure, your kids will sure love this game.

Pirates of Caribbean
This one is also from Disney. In the game your kids will get the maps, compass and the tools which will help them in navigation when they play the game. In this game your children have to help Jack Sparrow find the Black Perl. For this they have to battle both on land and sea. The game is about the war with the pirates and thus the gadgets like the pistol and sword are also there. Each instrument has a different feel and use in the game. When it comes to battle at sea then it is like testing the war skills and sailing skills.

There are simulation games like Fish tycoons, Roller Coaster Tycoon 3 Platinum and Zoo Tycoon 2 for the teens. With Fish Tycoon your children have to find out the seven magic fish of Isola. In this game they breed and raise the fish. The instruction in the game helps you to take a head start. This one is for the children in the age group of 10-12 years.

Roller Coaster is a theme park game. This game is about planning own family visitors and customizing the food stalls. With Real Life your kids learn how people in other country and regions live. The Lemonade Tycoon teaches your kid how to run successful Lemonade in the middle of the New York City.

With all these games your kids will get a healthy and educational entertainment.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

192.168.0.1- its Functions and Uses

This is the default IP address which is used by business and home networks. This address establishes a default gateway for the home networks. The IP address came into existence in 1970. The Internet protocol address are non routable. 192.168.0.1
Address is considered as a private address and is used as a default for the routers which are sold under the name of D-link and Netgear. The address is set as default and once you purchase the D-link or Netgear router you can change the address by accessing the network admin console. Other private IP addresses are 10.0.0.0 to 10.255.255.255, 172.16.0.0 to 172.31.255.255 and 192.168.0.0 top 192.168.255.255.

There are two Internet protocol address standards; one is IP version 4 and the other is IP version 6. The IP version 4 is the common one which has four bytes. Each byte (also called as octets) takes the value between zero and 255.

The technology came into existence in 1970. Everything from net browsing to e-mailing depends on the internet protocol address. To make the internet protocol addresses more user friendly and readable they are expressed as dotted decimals.
Each byte in an IP address is called as an octet. Each byte in address is made up of eight bits. Thus each octet in the address range from zero to 255 thus making the full range of IP address from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.

How 192.168.0.1 function?
The routers are the devices that transmit the data between the computers in a network. The data is transmitted in the form of packets by the routers. The routers use network address translation to detect the packets in the network and transfer them to the destination computer.

To manage your network and make adjustments you can log on from http//:192.168.0.1 and make the adjustments. Through this you can adjust the firewall, ports, passwords and alter the IP address and chage your user name.

How to use the IP address?
If you are using the D-link or Netgear then refer your user manual. Read the manual and follow the instructions to use your IP address.

To correct the trouble that you have with your router first verify the address on your computer. You can find the address in the properties option of the My Network on your computer. Right click the icon to find the address.

Next go to the LAN connections in the properties option enter the correct address in the internet option. Enter 192.168.0.1 in the default gateway and 255.255.255.255 in the subnet.

If your IP address router is altered then you first look at the address in the default gateway. Then click the start icon and in the 'run' enter the ipconfig and press enter. Then in the factory setting click and hold the button for few minutes, switch off the power and release the button only when the light start blinking in the router.

Sunday, January 4, 2009

LCD or Plasma TV's-which one is better

Both the technologies give you the crystal clear colorful pictures. Both of them stand at par when it comes to sound and picture quality. They are similar with flat panel and slim designs.

You can hang them on wall of your living room just like you hang a large framed painting. Everything seems similar between the two. There is some difference though. Both have their pros and cons. So, let's discuss and find out which one is better.

Let's discuss this in the light of picture quality, viewing angle and the functional features that we consider in general and in particular.

Picture quality
This is governed by contrast, uniformity of the picture and blackness level. Compare the two on the basis of contrast and you will find that both deliver high quality crystal clear colorful pictures. But under controlled light conditions, such as for the home theater room plasma TV is a better option. But if your room is bright enough with all sorts of light then for you LCD TV is a better option.

This reason for this lies in the technology. The plasma screens are constructed such that the light finds no route to escape. The cells are tightly packed which prevent the leakage. Thus the black part of the picture which the plasma TV displays is much deeper than that of the LCD TV.

In terms of color accuracy plasma TV scores above LCD TV. The images displayed on plasma TV are richer in color when compared to those displayed on the LCD screen. but the latest LCD TV use LED light and color field sequential technology which help LCD TV to overcome this shortcoming and reach at par to the plasma TV.

In terms of contrast ratio the LCD panels score low. The difference is obvious when the light comes from all the directions. This ratio falls in off axis viewing.

Picture uniformity
The uniformity in brightness through out the screen and the smoothness of picture delivered decides the picture uniformity. More smooth the image and more the uniformity in brightness higher is the picture uniformity. The plasma TV here scores above the LCD televisions.

Viewing angle
You judge the viewing angle of a TV by sitting on either side at a certain distance and view the images on the screen. The television which delivers high quality picture without any deterioration in contrast, color etc from either side is said to have a better viewing angle.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Apple iPod Classic with 120GB of Storage

The Apple iPod Classic with 120 GB storage give large space in your iPod to store long list of songs or long hours of video. With 120 GB you can store 30,000 songs, 25000 photos and 150 hours of video.

The latest features added to iPod Classic are the Genius playlist. Besides this other features are the music, videos, photo playback and audio book. The storage capacity, battery life and user interface are advanced which provide music lovers with high degree of multimedia entertainment.

With 120 GB you can carry your entire music library with you. Or you can download your favorite songs and make your playlist. The genius feature helps you to make a playlist of the songs of very similar nature.

With genius feature you can search the song in the library which goes with the song that you play on your iPod. You can make a playlist in this way. You can either play the songs at that very moment or save it so that you can enjoy it in future.

You can watch videos on the 2.5 inch screen. You can download the movies from iTunes, syn the videos to your iPod and store up to 150 hours of video on your iPod so that you can watch it anywhere and anytime you want. You can also record voice memos with iPod Classic, but for this feature you have to spend a little extra money.

The iPod classic comes with three inbuilt games-Vortex, iQuiz and Klondike. You can enjoy these games anywhere and anytime. You can also download monopoly from iTunes, sync and then play it whenever you want to.

With the shuffle songs option you can create the mix and take a different experience altogether. With click wheel you can browse the playlist and find out the song that you want to hear. You can browse the library by artist or album.

The iPod Classic also provide you with the feature by which you can share your photos with your friends. For this you have to sync the photos in your iPhoto on your iPod with your Mac or your personal computer. You can view them on your iPod or with the AV cables you can watch the videos or photos on your television.

You can search your search about eight million song and choose the song that you wish to hear or save in your playlist. As you click to buy the song, the downloading begins instantaneously.

All these features are bundled up in an aluminum and stainless steel sleek body. The iPod classic comes in black or silver in attractive designs.