Digital Video Cameras - More Fun Than Ever

With your trusty digital video camera by your side you can capture all those special moments, such as your child's first steps, your birthday or wedding, or your vacation with family and friends etc.

With so many manufacturers and models available in the digital video market, you may find it confusing trying to choose the perfect one for you. Your choice will, however, depend on the features that you want and how much you are willing to spend.

The most important thing to consider is the format in which your videos will be stored, as the video format determines the video quality. Digital 8 otherwise called D8, Mini-DV, DVD and HDD are the main types of video format that digital cameras offer. Both D8 and Mini-DV are tape-based formats, with the Mini-DV currently offering the highest quality video format to consumers. The DVD format allows direct video recording onto a digital disk, while the HDD type uses internal hard drives where the video is recorded. As the tape format is slowly being phased out by major manufacturers, it is a good idea to invest in disk or hard drive based digital video cameras.

Digital video cameras also come with charged coupled device or CCD imaging sensor. Digital video cameras come with 1-CCD or 3-CCD features. Cameras with 1-CCD suffer from poor video quality, whereas 3-CCD cameras produce much better quality videos. Most professional camcorders use the 3-CCD technology, thus making them more expensive than the other models.

The optical zoom feature of the camcorder lens generally ranges from 10X to 20X. The choice of zoom depends on how close you want to get to the action. Some digital video cameras also allow still photography at various resolutions, and some camcorders offer both video and still photography features. Some digital video camcorders have in-built flash for low-light photography, while some video cameras come with a 'Night Shot' feature. Other popular options include external flashlights, external microphones and external storage devices that can be attached onto the camcorder.

Camcorders with longer battery strength is also recommended. Digital video cameras have battery life ranging from 4 to 8 hours of continuous shooting. However, using the zoom or any external devices reduce the battery strength.

All cameras nowadays come bundled with a digital video editing software. But if you are not satisfied with the one provided, you can always buy a better and more expensive editing software from Adobe or any other reputable brand.

Video camera prices today vary from $500 to $4000, with Sony, JVC and Canon being the more popular brands.

Digital Video Recorders

Digital video recorders (DVR) are recording equipment that can record and store digital video on a computer. These can record audio as well as video data from multiple sources.

A DVR is basically a hard drive that can be connected to the computer and to other video sources such as a VCR. It has a tuner which captures the signal using a cable, antenna, or a satellite. The analog signals are compressed and converted into digital signals, which are then stored on the hard drive. A built-in MPEG-2 decoder converts the digital signal back into analog signal when it has to reach the television for viewing. Each DVR has an operating system within the hard drive.

There are several advantages to digital video recorders. They do not require a recording medium like tapes, as the data is stored on the DVR itself. Another main advantage is that the recording and playback can be done at the same time. Using this, even a live program on the TV can be paused, in the sense that the program can be recorded on the DVR and then viewed instead of the live program. However, the space within a DVR is limited, which is its main disadvantage. DVRs also have a live-TV buffer that keeps them in a constant recording mode for an hour or more.

Another interesting feature of DVRs is their search tool, which allows searching of a particular program by name of the program, name of the actors, or even by keywords. Some DVRs can be programmed to record some programs that have certain words in them. DVRs have recording capacities ranging from thirty hours to 320 hours. This also depends on the quality of the stored files.

The main categories of digital video recorders are TiVo, ReplayTV, and UltimateTV. Some of the top manufacturers of digital video recorders are LG, Panasonic, Philips, Pioneer, RCA, Samsung, Sonic Blue, and Sony. Prices range from $600 to $1,200 or more, depending on the brand, the model, and the options provided.

Digital Voice Recorders

Are you a busy professional with so much going on in your working day that you often forget important dates, times or information if you do not write everything down? Well, throw away your pencil and paper and start keeping that important information by using digital voice recorders. These new digital voice recorders are not only wonderfully compact, and tape free, but they are capable of recording for a phenomenally long time.

For example, one of these great digital voice recorders is capable of recording for an entire day and a half, which is an unsurpassed, sixty-four hours of recording time. Unbelievably, these wonderful little digital voice recorders are only four inches by one inch by one half inch, so it easily fits in your purse, pocket or one of those tiny compartments in your car.

One of the great things about these particular digital voice recorders is that you can set it in voice activation mode and even though it is on, it won’t record until it actually detects audio activity. But more importantly, because these digital voice recorders are digital, they begin recording after only one tenth of a second once sound is detected. And with its great 8kps voice sampling rate, these digital voice recorders are highly desirable to private investigators. They record and play back with stunning clarity and accuracy.

These digital voice recorders can be operated on two “AAA” batteries, but they also come with and external DC power supply. They also come complete with USB cable and software for downloading into your computer, variable playback speed, text to speech conversion features, fast forward and rewind control and much more.

A Look At HD Tivo

Have you ever heard someone say they were going to Tivo a program and wondered what they meant? HD Tivo is a term used to describe a high definition digital video recorder, which permits the owner to record television programming and store it to an internal hard disk for later viewing. So, the next time someone says they are going to Tivo something, they are simply saying that they are going to record it so that it can be watched at a later, more convenient time.

HD Tivo units function much like a VCR, which permits users to record programs onto a videotape. The modernized form, however, is HD Tivo. This unit is not only beneficial for recording, however, as it is also capable of pausing and/or rewinding a program already in progress. If, for instance, you have to step out of the room for a moment, you can pause the show and resume play when you reenter the room. The convenience of HD Tivo is unmistakable, which is why many entertainment buffs own this new video recording equipment and wouldn’t think of turning on their TV without it.

Some HD Tivo units allow individuals to specify certain programs to record based on specific criteria, including program title, actor, genre, time, etc. This availability depends upon location and service, but is often beneficial to those who schedule future recordings ahead of time.

HD Tivo products have been manufactured by industry-leading companies, including Philips, Toshiba, Sony and others. In order to use Tivo, individuals are required to subscribe to a monthly service, which generally costs approximately $10.00 to $15.00 per month. Lifetime subscription plans, which were previously offered by Tivo, have since been discontinued in place of a new program allowing customers to receive the unit at no cost in exchange for prepaid service.

When subscribing to any service, including HD Tivo, it is important to carefully read the service contract and understand the service for which you are paying. The monthly costs, service and cancellation policies should be clearly outlined in any contract. Any questions should be asked prior to signing of the contract and/or exchange of any payment. If a prepaid amount is required, it is unlikely that a consumer would be permitted to cancel their service during that time and still receive a refund. However, this possibility should be discussed with a Tivo specialist. Along with the unit itself, consumers will likely receive an owner’s manual and detailed instructions on how to operate their unit. As with any new technology, it may take some time to adapt to the features. By carefully reading the manual and paying close attention to the instructions of the representative, you should be able to Tivo in no time.

A 21” LCD TV – A Versatile Mid-Range Size

Some consumers consider a 21” LCD TV to be the perfect size: for TV viewing and for use as a computer monitor. Some take it one step further: they integrate their 21” LCD TV with a home theater PC. It’s easier than you think, and a home theater PC setup lets you access any media files like digital image files, audio files, and videos. You can also watch your favorite television shows or DVDs, and you can even use the 21” LCD TV as a computer monitor. It’s no surprise, then, that some consumers feel a 21” LCD TV is one of the most versatile screen sizes available.

If you watch digital TV on your 21” LCD TV, you could be already taking advantage of the possibilities of Digital Video Recorders (DVR) or TiVo. You can go one step farther; integrating your 21” LCD TV with a home theater PC setup is the ultimate in versatility. And it’s not that hard – here are a few ways available to you.

1. Buy a PC with the Media Center version of Windows XP and make sure it has a TV tuner card capable of capturing digital signals from your cable or satellite box. Once it’s installed, it works just like a DVR. You won’t need to buy a high-end PC to integrate with your 21” LCD TV if you just want to record and play shows and movies – if you also want to play graphics-intensive video games, you may need a more expensive PC with greater graphics capability. Just make sure you get plenty of memory.

2. Upgrade your PC. You can buy a copy of Microsoft’s operating system with Media Center. Frequently it comes bundled with a TV tuner card you’ll also need. If you have decent computer skills you can handle the installation fairly easily and your 21” LCD TV home theater PC setup will be running in no time.

3. If you don’t want to upgrade to a new operating system, a number of software companies produce applications that perform the same chores as Media Center does. A few are available as freeware, but the features they offer tend to be limited. You’ll still need to factor in the cost of a TV tuner card – a TV tuner card won’t be included with the freeware.

Once you’ve decided how to set up your computer, you can integrate it into your home theater system so your 21” LCD TV can handle the video feed you send to it. A 21” unit is ideal for this purpose; sets that are larger sometimes deliver reduced image quality when the TV signal is sent through the computer.

How you send the signal to your TV is the main hurdle to overcome. There are many different audio and video options for joining the two; the method you choose will obviously depend on the inputs and outputs available on both your PC and your TV. Older, standard-definition LCD TVs will have, at a minimum, a composite-video connection (a yellow video connection that's usually accompanied by red and white stereo audio jacks). Hopefully, it will also provide an S-Video port. Newer 21” LCD TVs should provide component inputs, and more advanced 21” LCD TVs that are HDTV capable will supply DVI or HDMI inputs. If you haven’t purchased a 21” LCD TV yet, try to find a model with DVI or HDMI inputs.

Once your computer is connected to your 21” TV you can use Media Center to keep track of your media files and handle your DVR recording needs. If you want to record TV without using Media Center, similar products on the market can do the job. For example, SnapStream's Beyond TV comes bundled with many TV tuner cards, so if you're building a home theater or upgrading a machine you already own, you might end up with a copy by default. And you can take a further step and add the Beyond Media program for organizing photo, music, and other media files, and it does pretty much everything Media Center does. Beyond TV doesn't support every TV tuner card on the market, so check the hardware specs for your 21” LCD TV before you install it.

Even if you have no interest in recording TV programs, you can still use programs like Windows Media Player, iTunes, and PowerDVD to manage your preexisting media library using software you already have.

Whichever option you choose, make sure you have plenty of hard disk space; once you start recording television programs or watching your home videos on your 21” LCD TV, you'll find you need all the space you can get. And due to its increased versatility, you’ll find your 21” LCD TV is an even bigger part of your home entertainment system.

Four Essentials to the Ultimate Home Theater System

The high-definition television revolution is already under way, as most of the major TV networks and cable outlets are quickly adopting this cutting-edge version of digital television as their broadcasting standard and offering consumers more shows in high definition.

In fact, according to the Consumer Electronics Association, 9 million households are likely to purchase HDTV products during the next 18 months. Another 30 million consumers consider themselves likely purchasers within the next three years.

This newer technology can be overwhelming for consumers, especially when they are not properly educated about the tools needed for the best setup of a high-definition home theater system.

Four basic elements are needed: picture, source, sound and assembly. Interestingly enough, the CEA says that approximately 30 percent of U.S. homes already have these basic ingredients.

* Picture: Most digital, high-definition televisions feature large screens in widescreen formats that create a theater-like experience right in your home. HDTV delivers crisp images that make you feel like you're part of the action.

Plasma and liquid crystal display televisions have generated the most excitement so far. These thin, lightweight sets can hang on a wall and only take up four inches of depth. Other examples include the microdisplay rear-projection televisions such as digital light processing sets. These TV sets are thinner, lighter and brighter than traditional projection TV sets.

* Source: Some high-definition televisions have a built-in tuner to receive local high-definition broadcasts. These are referred to as having "HD Built-In." Sets without an integrated tuner are "HD-Ready" and need a set-top box to decode the high-definition signal. Starting next year, many digital televisions will come with a high-definition tuner and the cable box built in, simplifying the connection for consumers.

* Sound: Most people don't realize that the high-definition television format incorporates digital 5.1 surround sound into high-definition broadcasts, giving you that "in the middle of the action" feel. For a truly engaging viewing experience, it is important to get a sound system that is comparable in quality to your television.

* Assembly: To tie it all together, you need to make sure you have the right cables and accessories to connect your system. Many consumers prefer using service personnel to deliver and set up the system at home - making sure everything is in place, connected and calibrated for the optimal home theater experience.

So how much does a home theater system cost? A wide range of prices are available, depending on an individual's needs and desires. For example, high-definition televisions sold at Best Buy start at less than $500 and go all the way up to $10,000, with numerous models in between.

Finding The Right 27” LCD TV

A 27” LCD TV provides a much better picture than the old CRT televisions – and they come in much more attractive styles. In many homes an LCD TV has become an integral feature in the entertainment room’s decorating scheme. They’re versatile, too. A flat screen 27” LCD TV can be mounted on a wall, under a cabinet, on the ceiling, or it can sit on a stand or on top of furniture. A 27” LCD TV comes in a size that is big enough to comfortably watch from a reasonable distance, but it’s also small enough to fit in even the smallest viewing rooms.

The 27” LCD market is also highly competitive – almost every television manufacturer makes at least one 27” model. Choosing the right model for your needs can be time-consuming; to get you started, take these steps as you search for the right TV for you.

First consider your room’s décor, and think about how you’ll sit relative to the TV. Because a 27” LCD TV has significantly higher resolution than a conventional TV, you’ll be able to sit closer than you normally would and view a larger screen much more comfortably. The optimum viewing distance for a 27” LCD TV is approximately 6 feet, so plan your furniture arrangement accordingly.

Then make a decision about whether you want or need HDTV. A 27” LCD TV with EDTV is less expensive to purchase but it won’t display high-definition signals. The price difference between a smaller HD-ready 27” LCD TV and an ED-ready 27” LCD TV is relatively small, so you're better off buying an HD-ready set. Many experts indicate there's little reason to buy a non-HD 27” LCD TV. A lower resolution LCD TV won't be able to accept high-definition signals, so the picture won't look any better than regular analog TV. In the next few years more and more TV signals will be in HD; since your 27” LCD TV should last for more than fifteen years, make sure it will grow with the technology.

Now try to purchase a set with an HDMI input. This port keeps the signal all-digital, avoiding degradation that can occur as the signal passes through other components (like your cable box). HMDI carries high-definition audio as well as video. Some satellite receivers and DVD players also connect through this port.

Narrow your choice of 27” LCD TV down further by determining if you want or need picture-in-picture functionality. Picture-in-picture allows you to view two video sources at once, with one appearing as a small window on the screen. If you do want picture-in-picture capability on your 27” LCD TV, remember that single-tuner picture-in-picture lets you watch television in one window and another source (like a DVD) in the second window. A 27” LCD TV with two tuners lets you watch two television sources at once. It’s a cool feature and once you have it you’ll find you don’t want to do without it, especially if you’re a sports or news junkie.

You’re almost done, but now you’ll want to check to see if the different models of 27” LCD TV you’re still considering are sold with a stand or mounting hardware included. Most 27” LCD TVs will come with a table stand wall mounting hardware costs an additional $100 to $200. If you do purchase a stand or mounting hardware separately, make sure it’s appropriate for the size and weight of your TV. The average 27” LCD TV is pretty heavy, so it pays to make sure your stand or hardware will safely support it.

Last, but certainly not least, inspect the manufacturer's return and warranty policy before buying online. Some manufacturers have strict policies regarding authorized dealers. If you buy a 27” LCD TV from an unauthorized dealer, the manufacturer may not offer warranty coverage. The retailer may offer a substitute warranty that sufficiently covers you – the only way to know for sure is to ask.

The price difference for a 27” LCD TV from an authorized dealer and from a discounter can be hundreds of dollars – and sometimes that’s the sole reason for the price difference - so make sure you’re comfortable with the risk of not having a warranty, or make sure you ask the discounter for information about warranty terms for the 27” LCD TV you’ve narrowed your choice down to.

Flat Screen Monitors: A Technological Wonder

You probably are already aware that there are two types of computer monitors available today: the big and clunky cathode-ray (CRT) tube monitors and the newer flat screen monitors. These flat panel monitors have a number of advantages over the older type of computer monitors. They are far sleeker, more space-saving and weigh much less. Flat screen monitors are also designed to be more energy-efficient and reduces eye strain. Flat screen monitors use the technology called Liquid Crystal Display or LCD. There are also flat screen CRT monitors available. Both LCD flat panel monitors and CRT flat-screen monitors are fast gaining popularity as a much sleeker and more modern alternative to traditional, bulky monitors of yesterday.

An LCD or liquid crystal display is characterized by a thin and flat display device that is composed of either color or monochrome pixels that are arranged in front of a light source or a reflector. There are two types of LCDs: transmissive and reflective displays. These types differ according to the source of light. A reflective LCD is illuminated by exterior light. A common example of a reflective LCD is the display of a digital watch. Meanwhile, a transmissive display draws its light source from the back through a backlight. This category of LCDs usually requires high luminance levels. Televisions, computer displays, PDAs and mobile phones use transmissive LCDs.

Flat screen monitors have significant advantages over the traditional CRT monitors. Because these monitors are perfectly flat visually and physically, they offer a clearer, more vivid and undistorted pictures from any angle. The images on a flat panel monitor is much more crisp and high quality. This is the reason why flat screen monitors significantly reduce eye strain among its users, another important advantage. There is no curvature on the screen’s surface that will distort any on-screen images. And since the pictures are sharper with more brilliant colors, staring at a flat screen monitor becomes more of a pleasure than a strain.

Flat screen monitors are also much more ergonomic. This means that these types of monitors follow ergonomic requirements and thus add comfort and convenience for the worker. The flat screen monitor is viewable from any angle and is typically fitted on a swivel base with adjustable headlight. This allows for more freedom of movement for the user since the flat screen monitor can be easily adjusted to meet the specific viewing needs. Flat screen monitors are also very space-efficient taking up less desk real estate than older computer monitors. Most LCD flat screen monitors are only about an inch thick and weighs nearly five kilograms.

If you are planning to buy a new flat screen monitor, there are some aspects you should consider. First, choose the resolution that is most appropriate to your needs. Next, assess the price. Generally, flat screen monitors will cost you about $200-$250 for a CRT screen while LCD flat panel monitors cost $500 to $700. Both LCD and CRT flat screen monitors have an average lifespan of about 5 to 7 years, and also come with warranty ranging from 1 to 3 years. Before you purchase, make sure that you do your research on the many different brands of flat screen monitors available in the market today. A flat screen monitor will definitely enhance your computing experience, whether for work or for play.

Home Theater Ideas For Small Rooms

Just because you have a small room does not mean that you can’t enjoy the Lord of the Rings Trilogy or any other feature film that is best viewed on the latest in home theater advancements. You can bring all the qualities of the home theater system into a smaller apartment, or even enjoy the full effect in your bedroom, by choosing some home theater options that will fit better in your smaller space.

Start your search for the perfect home theater system in your small room by looking for the right television. Your television should not overwhelm everything else in the room, especially if you are choosing the components for a bedroom. High Definition and wide screen TVs are available in any size now, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a screen that fits nicely into your room.

You might want to consider incorporating a cubby hole for your home theater in your smaller room. This will allow you to actually lessen the floor space that your system takes up, and will not make the room appear any smaller. Another idea is to buy a piece of furniture such as a compact entertainment cabinet, although keep in mind that this will cut down on the amount of space in a room that may already appear crowded. If you want to go this route, a good option is to utilize a cabinet which has a built-in slide drawer for your television, such as the ones used in hotels.

As far as the rest of the system in small rooms, the best bet for a general purpose home theater system is one of the many home theater systems sold in boxes, with all the components included. Look for a set that includes a DVD/CD player and wireless rear speakers, as you will not want a bunch of wires taking up the valuable space in your room. Avoid small satellite speakers, and look for woofers that are over 3” and a 7” or larger subwoofer.

Advanced home theater users may want to shop for their components separately, and this option will allow for greater flexibility and may help to match up to the décor in your room. Remember to include all the components in your search, and that your main objective is to cut down on the floor space used as much as possible, in both wiring and surface area.

A small room does not mean that you can’t enjoy a wide range of experiences that come with a home theater system. A home theater system can be the perfect addition to a bedroom for watching a movie or listening to some music before you go to bed or when you are feeling under the weather. Shopping small will help save some money without taking away from the enjoyment of the overall experience- in fact, smaller rooms can be ideal for complete home theater systems as the sound is used more effectively. The key is not to overwhelm, but to make your audio/visual experience as realistic as possible.

LCD Televisions - Technology uncovered

LCD is one of the biggest technologies in television at the moment, set to go head-to-head against plasma screens for the future of TVs.

But what do LCD televisions mean to you? Well, to begin with, the picture you get is a lot sharper. By now you’ve probably replaced your old bulky computer monitor with a flat, LCD one, and you’ve no doubt noticed the difference in picture quality and clarity. Now the companies behind LCD want it to do the same for televisions, making them flatter, clearer and altogether better.

Another thing to note is that the rise of HDTV (high-definition television) is linked to the rise of LCD televisions. HDTV allows the original TV signal to be broadcast in even better quality than a DVD, and digital LCD TVs can then display the signal perfectly.

It really makes TV as we know it today look ridiculously primitive by comparison – and if you’re willing to splash out on an LCD TV and an HDTV subscription, you can have it today. Every year, LCD screens are decreasing in price and increasing in size, making them an ever-better competitor against other screen technologies.

When you buy an LCD television, the main things to look for are size and price, although there are also more technical features you might be interested in, like colour depth (the number of colours the screen can display). Response time is one that is often considered important, as LCDs with a long response time can produce a blurring effect when showing pictures of something that is moving quickly. There is also a measurement called dot pitch, which roughly indicates how sharp the picture produced by the TV will be (lower numbers are better).

As a final word of advice, if you do decide to buy an LCD TV, make sure you see it in use in the shop first. You should watch to see how it handles different kinds of pictures, and what the display is like compared to other LCDs, as well as compared to plasma screens.

LCD TV Review - Get the Best for Less

What is an LCD TV?

An LCD (light crystal display) screen consist of a thin layer of liquid crystals sandwiched between two plates of glass. When an electric current is sent through these crystals an array of tiny multi-colored pixels light up and produce a TV picture.

Because they're so thin and light, LCD screens are now the most popular screens for computers, and as prices come down, are becoming the most popular screens for TVs.

LCD TV screens are 1/4" to 4" thick, and are 2" to 65" wide. LCD TVs can cost anywhere from $50 for a hand held model to $15,000 for a 65" widescreen TV.


LCD TV Features

* LCD TVs utilize digital technology which gives you a much sharper and clearer picture than a standard tube TV.

* LCD TV screens are thin and lightweight so they can be placed almost anywhere in a home or office, even hung on a wall.

* Most LCD TV screens are manufactured in widescreen format and are compatible with widescreen DVD'S and HD programming.

* LCD TVs have a flat screen so there's no picture distortion as there is with curved tube TVs.

* LCD TV screens have a life span of 50,000 to 80,000 hours, depending on the make and model of the LCD TV.

* LCD TVs don't suffer from screen "burn in" like tube TVs.


Getting the Best Price on an LCD TV

If you're in the market for an LCD TV, keep in mind that prices can vary widely between retailers. That's why I recommend checking out LCD TV models at a local electronics store, then checking prices online before you buy one.

Take a trip to our local Best Buy, Circuit City, or Wal-Mart to test various HD TV models. Watch the picture, test the controls, and ask the salesperson any questions you may have.

Then, when you've picked out a model you like, go online to see where you can get it at the best price.

I recently checked prices on a comparison shopping website for a Panasonic LCD TV and the price difference between retailers varied by more than $1,000. It's amazing what bargains you can find online.

The website I used to check prices also included buyer reviews so I also got honest feedback from people who had actually purchased the LCD TV model I was interested in (can click on the link below to visit this website).

Prices for LCD TVs start at $300 for a 19" TV, $900 for a 32" TV, and $2,000 for a 40" TV.


Conclusion

If you spend most of your evening hours watching television like I do, and you want a picture with near lifelike quality, then an HD TV set is what you're after.

Click on this link for more information on LCD TVs and to check out LCD TV models and prices. Click on this link for information and prices on home theater systems. Click on this link for information on free satellite TV systems and service.

LCD TV UK

As recently as just a few years ago, consumers needed a different monitor or screen for watching movies, for playing video games, or for watching television and for computing. That’s no longer the case. An LCD TV in the UK with a TV tuner allows you to enjoy virtually all your entertainment and audio-visual devices from one location, saving you space and money. If you live in university housing or a small flat, or if you just want to save space, an LCD TV in the UK with a built-in TV tuner is a simple way to accomplish all those goals.

Here’s an example of how versatile a UK LCD TV with a TV tuner can be: you combine video from a PS2, an Xbox 360, cable TV, a DVD player, and the PC – all into one LCD monitor. You can watch TV with picture-in-picture mode while you work on your computer, then with a touch of a button switch over to playing an Xbox or PS2 game. Finished with the game? Toggle back to the TV feed or to your computer.

Here’s an important consideration: many standard LCD monitors will accept television feeds through appropriate cabling, but you’ll need a cable box or cable converter to decode digital-TV signals. A UK LCD TV with a TV tuner overcomes that hurdle. Space limitations (for instance, determining where you have room to put the cable box) is a good reason to have the tuner built into the television. Also, if the tuner is built into the monitor, you’ll only need one remote control.

Keep in mind that an LCD TV UK with a TV tuner built in will cost approximately 20 percent more than a monitor without a TV tuner.

Here are some examples of some models of LCD TV UK you can purchase that come complete with TV tuners:

1. Sony TV Tuner/Monitor MFM-HT75W – UK version: A flat panel LCD monitor with a 17” widescreen display, this model offers Digital S-video inputs, is HDTV capable, and has a remote control.

2. Sony TV Tuner/Monitor MFM-HT95 – UK version: A flat panel LCD monitor with a 19” widescreen display, it is HDTV capable, has Digital S-video inputs, an SXGA display, and a remote control. Average retail price is approximately $720.

3. Philips 17PF8946 17" Widescreen HD-Ready Flat-Panel LCD TV UK with PC Input: A flat panel LCD with a built-in tuner, it also has a built-in FM tuner and built-in speakers.

4. Magnavox 15MF605T/1 15" HD-Ready UK LCD TV with HD Component Video and PC Inputs: A flat LCD panel with a built-in tuner, the small size of this monitor makes it a great fit for tight spaces. It allows picture-in-picture viewing along with built-in speakers, and even comes with a V-chip for parental viewing controls.

Where can you find an LCD TV in the UK? Major retailers like Curry’s and Richer Sounds carry a large selection LCD TVs in the UK. You can also try online electronics retailers, and frequently can find great deals at online auction sites like ebay.co.uk.

Digital Body Worn Cameras

What is small than a credit card, takes up to eighty quality digital photos, can be used as a web cam and carries your keys, as well? This is simply one of the best body worn cameras available on the market today. It is a keychain digital camera. When you leave the house, do you ever go anywhere without your keys?

Probably not, so why not take along a great little body worn camera with you and use it to catch all of the action and memories that you would have lost had you not had this digital camera keychain with you? It has sixteen megabytes of memory and operates on a “AAA” battery. Then when you are ready, just download your photos and you are ready to roll.

Want to know about another great little digital body worn camera? This little gem looks just like a cigarette lighter, a great innovation for all of you smokers. But not only does it take great digital photos, it can also be used to send live video across the Internet. Imagine using a lighter to talk face to face with your friends while you are online.

And it works with most windows based programs. You will get great pictures every time with this camera’s automatic exposure and white balance features. So that regardless if you are a professional photographer or a rank novice, you will get the kinds of photos that you desire. These are perfect body worn cameras for private investigators, too. The lighter camera is capable of take up to 104 VGA pictures or 30 SXGA pictures.

Canon Underwater Cameras - What You Need To Know

Simply for capturing the terrific memories that you experience, you will get fond of using Canon underwater cameras quickly.

Underwater cameras have most of the same features as the handy cameras that we used outdoors - the only difference is that they have certain functions that are more innovative because they are water resistant and can be used to capture pictures under the sea.

Of course, these underwater cameras are not only exclusively for taking pictures under the sea because some of them are also designed to be used in outdoor activities. In heavy rain these cameras will not be affected because of the protective device to guard against water and pressure damage. They come in a number of forms, with their prices relecting the entire range of normal camera pricing.

The cheapest type of underwater camera for instance is the simple disposable underwater camera. These cameras are able to take about twenty to thirty pictures. These cameras are waterproof enough to be utilized when there is harsh rain and snow storms. These are best use for fun scuba trips and family vacations; it will certainly capture the memorable parts of the family fun.

One of the best known brands of underwater cameras is the Canon. It has been proven efficient in all forms of underwater adventures. Canon underwater cameras have a lot of designs that offer different features. Each of the cameras gives advantages and special features that you will really enjoy. However, as you would expect from a quality brand like Canon, these cameras might appear a bit expensive because of the gadgets used on it; nonetheless they are of best quality and you will have no regrets once you see the resolution of your pictures.

Many conventional digital and film cameras have waterproof housings. Placing your camera inside will allow you to 'transform' your existing camera into an underwater camera. However, if you want excellent photographic quality from under the water, we would always advise purchasing a dedicated underwater camera.

Canon underwater cameras came in various models. The higher the photo resolution that it has, generally the more expensive the price is. Many of the underworld photographers that I know prefer to use Canon underwater cameras because they offers a "one of a kind quality". The Canon Company is one of the pioneering companies that launched underwater cameras in the market and you know you will be getting quality when you buy Canon.

Buying a Plasma Television

With televisions getting bigger and bigger Plasma Television technology has become a front runner in the big screen race.

A few years ago a plasma television was well out of the financial reach of the average man with the smaller televisions costing upwards of $8000. But with steady competition from the LCD technology these prices are steadily coming down as time goes by. Now is the chance for the common man to purchase a big screen plasma television.

There are several sizes when it comes to plasma televisions. They range from 25 inch up-to 60 inch. All delivering high quality picture. But what do you look for when purchasing a big screen plasma television?

There are several things to look for. Firstly don’t go for the biggest one there. This will be the most expensive one and dropping a size or two below the biggest will get you the most value for money.

The second thing to look for would be the brand. Go for the most trusted brand. Some well known brands include Panasonic, LG and Sony. Sony plasma televisions tend to be more expensive than the other brands.

Thirdly you will need to look for a plasma television that suits your needs. Meaning one that has a remote and interface that is simple to use, and has all the connections you need for your surround sound system or DVD player.

Picking the right plasma television need not be a difficult task. You can ask friendly staff at any of the major electronics stores for suggestions and recommendations. In the end the choice is yours. The choice of which brand you want to buy, which color, which size etc. It depends on your personal taste and of course your budget. These days a 60 inch plasma television will cost you around $6000. Of course this is for a huge screen that most of us will not need. The more modest 42 inch screens will only set you back around $3000.

Buying A Plasma TV

Plasma TVs offer a much higher resolution and better picture quality than TVs of old, and can also be used as great computer monitors as well. Gamers especially like using a Plasma TV due to the fact that they can get greater graphic detail and clearer pictures which helps to enhance game play, making it more enjoyable.

Another advantage to owning a Plasma TV is that colors look better than on any other TV or monitor. Having high-end color creates a better picture, and makes TV seem more real, a good feature for movie buffs for sure.

Brighter colors and higher contrasts add to viewing pleasure, as well as the ability to watch TV and movies in wide screen.

Many people are better satisfied with Plasma TVs as they require much less space than the traditional TV sets. You no longer have to plan your furniture layout around where the TV is positioned, as the small size and wider screen makes it easy to see from almost any angle or distance in the room. No matter where you sit in your room, you should be able to clearly see TV, which is an added bonus to the Plasma TV.

Plasma TVs range in size from the standard twenty inch models, all the way up to fifty inches in width. Keep in mind however, the bigger the screen is, the higher the price is likely to be. Plasma TV’s work particularly well if you are planning to set up your own home theatre, couple it with a good surround sound system, and you have all the benefits of the theatre without all the extra people to annoy you.

Resolution also affects the price of your Plasma TV. The higher resolution, the sharper and clearer the picture, but the more of a dent it will put in your wallet. You will probably be better suited by purchasing a well known brand name Plasma TV, as you are likely to get better service from a reputable manufacturer. A good price is important for the obvious reason, but remember, sometimes you get what you pay for. If you buy from a vendor just because he is cheap you can be setting yourself up for problems right off the bat.

There are several resources available online to help with any questions you may have about purchasing a Plasma TV. It is a good idea to look into several different sources before making a final decision and handing over your hard earned cash.

Buyers Guide to Home Theater Projectors

Over the years, I have grown really attached to my home theater system. I must say, of all the rooms in the house, my own little movie theater is the one I could not live without. I am absolutely in love with my home theater system and, if you are anything like me, I am sure you will love yours too. I found, when I was initially building my system, that there was so much information to absorb. Every product out there seemed better than the next, and I found myself unsure about which to buy. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a new home theater projector.

There are two main types of projectors on the market; DLP and LCD. DLP stands for digital light processing. It was invented by Texas Instruments, and utilizes a microscopic array of over 2 million mirrors. DLP has a higher contrast than LCD, but there are some unfavorable consumer reports that note something called the "rainbow effect". The "rainbow effect" is noticeable when looking from one side of the screen to the other, and is characterized by a sudden burst of color.

LCD stands for liquid crystal display. These projectors have three distinct glass LCD panels inside; one for each component of the video signal (red, green, and blue). While DLP chips reflect light, the LCD panels allow light to pass through them. LCD projectors produce brighter images, and they are known for having excellent color saturation. In the end, you will be hard-pressed to notice a great difference between the two types of projection systems.

When shopping for a new projector, keep your particular needs in the forefront of your thoughts. As I mentioned above, it is really easy to lose yourself in the minutiae of each particular system. Connectivity is a definitely something to be mindful of. Make sure that you are able to connect all of your components, including your gaming system. Nothing beats playing Halo in real-life size! Contract ratio is another important factor; the higher the ratio, the better the picture will be.

The brightness of your projector is another thing to consider. Light output is measured in ANSI (American National Standards Institute) lumens. You will want to avoid a projector that produces anything shy of 1000 lumens. As you are likely aware, the projection resolution is extremely important. This refers to the number of pixels that can be displayed on the screen. Go for something that is no less than 1024x768, as this will allow you to fully appreciate the depth and quality of HDTV. In the end, you should buy the projector that is in line with your needs and your budget. Soprano's is coming on right now! Time to go!

All About Plasma Televisions

Plasma televisions have flooded the market, but there are some important facts you should know first. They are a premium price but they offer one of the best combinations of features for a High Definition television today. Plasma screens offer a flat screen of 4” thick that have one of the best pictures available. The newest televisions have resolution capabilities of up to 1080p. This is a huge leap in resolution compared to DVD which only has capabilities of 480i. This means that HD capable plasma televisions can produce more than twice the resolution of a DVD.

The reason that a plasma television can produce such images in a thin layer is the technology that was actually created about 35 years ago. Plasma technology starts with two thin pieces of glass that are filled with xenon and neon gas. The chamber contains all of the pixels which can reach into the millions. This chamber is filled with electric current and it illuminates the pixels that also fill the chamber. This process creates a brilliant picture that is almost unmatched by any other screen. Plasma screens offer very high resolution that is bright and has a wide viewable range. You can view the screen within a 160 degree range with no loss in quality.

To incorporate most of the advantages of a plasma television, you must make sure that it has the features that are most up to date. The most up to date features of plasma televisions is that they have 1080p resolution. You also need multiple HDMI connections because you will be connecting more than just one HD component. DVD players, cable boxes and game consoles all have HDMI capability that makes the best use of your television. Make certain that your plasma television can handle at least two HDMI connections, or it is out of date. Component video is still a great second option, but it will not create as good results. Remember that your plasma television is a center piece for your technology and it should be capable of everything that you own.

How to repair the E18 error on Canon digital cameras

There seems to be a relatively large population of Canon owners who are affected by the E18 error. In this article I will teach you a few simple methods you can try to repair the error yourself.

This article is intended for people whose cameras are out of warranty. If your camera is still under warranty, go to your nearest Canon repair shop and let them fix it. If it’s not, you can either choose to pay around 150$ for the repair or try one of these simple techniques.

First I should explain what exactly an E18 is. According to Canon’s web site, it is an error that involves the lens unit or lens cover. The lens gets stuck in the extended position, and refuses to move either to focus the lens or to retract when powered off. It can happen if you apply pressure to the area surrounding the lens while it is in the recording mode (this includes dropping the camera), or if sand or dirt get into the lens area. The lens gets stuck, you get a black screen with a small "E18" sign in the lower-left corner, the camera beeps a few times and turns off.

Lately, I noticed a number of people online who are having troubles with this error. It happened to my Power Shot A520 as well a couple of weeks ago, but fortunately, the camera was still under warranty so Canon fixed it free of charge. In order to help the unlucky ones whose cameras are out of warranty, I decided to write this article.

Basically, there are a couple of simple things you can try. I can’t guarantee they will work for you, but I know these methods have helped some people get rid of their E18 problems:

1) One method is to tap the padded USB cover part on a hard surface, for example, a desk. I know it sounds to simple to work, but this can get some of the dirt out of the lens.

2) Try compressed air. With a fine tip blow off gun and dry compressed air set the tip between the lens turret and the camera body and turn on the air while moving the tip around the lens. It should remove all of the dust and sand. Turn the camera on and it should function fine.

3) Another solution is to try and push the lens back into place. This is the least preferable method. Try it only if the camera is out of warranty and DON’T apply too much pressure! If the lens can be set back into place with a light push, great! If not, don’t force it!

4) If nothing else works, there are a couple of online guides in different languages for dismantling the camera and cleaning the lens thoroughly. Try this only if your camera is out of warranty! Some of them are:

- http://www.ixus-world.de/tips/repair_guide/e18_01en.htm - a guide in English
- http://menthol.hit.bg/E18.html - a guide in Bulgarian
- http://www.artecdesign.ee/~jan/Kaamerad/PowerShotA70/index.html - Estonian guide

The last two are not in English, but they have a lot of pictures which should help with the whole process.

So you’ve learned how you can try and rescue your camera. Try out the methods for yourself, and contact me with good news.

If you want more information about the E18 error, or would like to read other people’s experiences with it, stop by my site at http://www.e18error.com. Feel free to drop me an email.

75 percent of people buy the wrong digital camera

When I teach a new class learning digital photography, over 75% of the students turn up with the camera the salesman suggested.

Guess what? They soon find out that it’s the wrong one for them. This can be a very expensive mistake. So the big questions are what is the right one for me and how do I know which is best for me.

One of the first things that you want to know about the camera that the salesman is trying to sell you is as follows -
How long does the camera take to turn on and be ready to take the shot? In the consumer market this can range between 1 to 5 seconds most being towards the 3 seconds mark. 
How long does the camera take to focus on the subject? (Not to take the picture) most cameras take between 1 to 3 seconds most at around the 1-second mark. How long does the camera take to actually take the photo after you have pushed the shutter button completely? Again, most cameras take between 1to 3 seconds this is called shutter lag time. Now you can see to take a photo can take up to 5 seconds just to turn on and up to another 3 seconds to focus in and the up to another 3 seconds just to actually take the photo.

In a cheaper camera, but not necessarily cheaper it can be up to 9 seconds to take a photo from the camera turned off. You may say “yes but I will leave my camera on” ok that’s fine, but you may still have a lag time of up to 3 seconds just to take a photo. Just imagine how annoying it will be now that you have purchased your new digital camera costing you around $400 - $500 to find that you just can’t catch your child blowing out the candles because your new camera at the critical time of blowing the candles out took 1 second to focus and a further 2 seconds to take the photo. What was the result? A child sitting in front of a cake with black smoldering candles.

Can you set the white balance on your camera? Just what is the white balance?

About 60% of digital cameras don’t have this adjustment, you must buy one that can be set manually, not just one that has an “auto white balance” as they are not as good as they advertise.

Does your camera have different exposure modes?

Exposure modes are simply where does the camera take a light reading? The cheaper cameras just do an all over reading which can be very limiting to say the least. A good camera will have a “spot”, “centre weighted” and “matrix” metering system, which allows you to take great photos in any light situation.

When buying a digital camera, buy it for the fact that it’s a camera not a video camera as well. One student showed me all the features her camera had and that’s why it was more expensive – the only thing that it didn’t do well was take still pictures!

You can get so much out of your new digital camera! you just have to put some time in for learning how to use it properly and how to take better pictures – remember no one will ever want to look at a poor quality photo twice!

If you want to take really great pictures that will be in your family for years put in a little effort with your new digital camera.

Cameras – Pictures Capture Time

The magic of capturing the smile of a beloved, the blending hues of a sunset, the expression on a baby’s face, sends thrills of anticipation to people of every culture,of every age.What was considered a miracle two hundred years ago now casually blends into one’s every day activities.The
invention of the simple black box in France started an industry that has evolved as fast as the technology required for any new-age product.

Cameras now come in price ranges that allow you to even throw them away after taking one roll of pictures.They also come in the most complex, computerized packages that only the richest pros consider purchasing. Although the original concept of the camera began to be developed around the
1830s, it wasn’t until around the 1900s that more people could afford to buy one or have the film developed or have their picture taken professionally. By the 1930s and 1940s, cameras acquired a permanent niche in the hearts of the average person. Since then thousands of brands and models
have appeared, only to be replaced with the newest technology of the day.

In order to focus more precisely, the earlier camera had a bellows, allowing the distance from the lens to the film to be adjusted. The greatest fear of those owning the bellows-style camera was an accidental, fine pin-hole that allowed unwanted light in.Being opened and closed hundreds of times
tended to create cracks in the corners where they folded. The leaky bellows problem ruined many a picture, to the sorrow of the photographer.

Features the photographers wanted, and after a while received, were film on a roll rather than having to use a plate. Next came film stop mechanisms so that winding the film to the next spot became more accurate. Features that kept one from making double exposures delighted many
photographers. Adding flash in such a way that it was actually usable surged the sale of cameras forward.

Just as the movies were originally silent movies and only came in black and white, the first still cameras only used black and white film. The two industries moved forward on parallel paths. Once color film technology existed for one, the other quickly adapted its products. Colored slides and
slide projectors became favorites for taking those vacation pictures and showing them to friends. It wasn’t long before a regular homeowner could make a color movie of the kids. When sound was added to the movie theaters, the movie fan began adding sound to the home movies. That home movie film was sent to a professional developer for processing.

The speed of technological inventions increased. Along with computers in every home came the age of the Video Camcorder and the Digital Camera. Instant pictures! Instant movies. No developing necessary. Everything happens with instant playback!

One aspect of the camera industry hasn’t changed over the years: the thrill, the magic, of capturing a moment in time,to be treasured and shared with the world.Cameras have reduced the size of the planet in our mind’s eye and fostered understanding among the different cultures and races of the world. This is a camera’s most priceless quality and gift.

Buying A Digital Camera

When it comes to buying a digital camera, you need to ask yourself one question. “What type of pictures am I looking to take?” Then from that point on, try to envision the image perfectly in your mind, also how you would like then to turn out for others to see. From there on in, it can be easy clicking and all this can be done just by picking out what you are looking for in the features of a digital camera and the picture you have seen in your mind. Buying a digital camera should not be stressful.

Most digital cameras come with the essentials things such as picture storage and a viewfinder and other times when it comes to buying a digital camera, you will find that some extras may be helpful to you on making what envisioned seem real on paper or on a screen. Some digital cameras come with zoom, a self-timer and even flash, so choosing these qualities just might be right up your ally for great picture taking. One of the neat features that some digital cameras offer these days is a moviemaker or mpeg maker, this allows you to capture a few seconds worth of homemade film and can complement any picture you have taken.

Buying a good digital camera does not have to cost a lot of money for anyone, even for the beginner. The good thing about a digital camera is that it takes out the cost of developing the film at a local store plus the drive to the store and back. There is an instant gratification feeling, just by viewing the pictures on the viewfinder or they may also be downloaded from your camera to your personal computer. Almost all digital cameras come with software that can be installed onto your PC and it gives you full freedom of editing your pictures until you are content and happy with them.

Basics of the Digital camera

Like most things in life when your experiencing something for the first time you are often unsure how to go about it. The same can be true when buying your first digital camera. You will undoubtedly be inundated with facts, figure and more jargon than you know what to do with. We will attempt in this article to help you along with some of the jargon and show you what to look for when buying a digital camera. Some of the feature may not interest you unless you need your camera to perform specific tasks, however its always worth knowing exactly what you are buying so you can pick a good deal when you see one.

Megapixels

The resolution of a camera is measured and advertised in megapixels. The idea behind this figure is the number of pixels that the camera has to take an image with. In this case the higher the number the better quality of picture you will be able to take. For example if you purchase a camera that has a resolution of 4 Megapixels, pictures that you take with that camera will be able to take images made up of 4 million pixels. Its obvious when you think about that a camera with a 2 megapixel resolution will not create as image as crisp or as detailed as the 4 megapixel one.

If you often print out your images on your PC or have them sent away to be printed then the megapixel rating of your camera can be very important to you. Higher megapixels on your camera will allow you to make prints larger in size while still keeping the quality. If you try to print a picture too large than what you camera was designed for then the image drastically loses quality.

The last thing to know about megapixels is the higher the resolution you take pictures in the more space on your memory card will be taken up. A picture taken on a 4 megapixel camera will need twice as much space on a memory card as a picture taken on a 2 megapixel camera. Be sure if you want quality pictures have enough memory on your camera to back it up., Either that or have spare media cards to plug in once your space has been used up.

Digital Zoom and Optical Zoom

No doubt when you are buying a camera you will want some sort of zoom function to take those in the distance shots. This is a troublesome area for some first time buyers. There are two types of zoom on the market for digital cameras. Digital Zoom and Optical Zoom. The only one that really matters is Optical zoom, this is true a true zoom function that brings the objects closer to you using the optics of the camera. Digital Zoom is like using the zoom function on an image editing software package. It enlarges a section of the image so it looks as if its closer to you.

Anything you can do with digital zoom you can do with a photo editing package so don't splash too much money on a camera with digital zoom only. Sometimes you will also so "total zoom" advertised this means the number that is quoted here is the optical zooms magnification added to the digital zooms magnification. Try to find out the magnification level of the optical zoom alone for the true value of the camera.

Aperture Size

We may be going a little further here than some of you would like to care about but bear with us as the aperture size can make a big impact on your pictures. The size of the aperture determines exactly how much light is let into the camera when your picture is taken. Think of the aperture like the iris of your eye. No big deal you may think, however having more light allows you take better pictures in a variety of lighting condition, cloudy days is a perfect example.
With a large enough aperture you would be less likely to need the flash, personally I don't like to use the flash function, the artificial flash of light does not always do justice to the picture you are trying to take. Also effects like red eye are also common.

Shutter Speed

Great effects can be made to images using a variety of shutter speeds. The thing to look for when buying a decent digital camera in terms of shutter speeds is the broadest range you can find. This will give you the best chance of manipulating the picture the way you want it. Combined with a pro-active aperture the shutter speed can make pictures come to life or freeze images in an instant.

This technique is great when you want to take moving objects exactly how they look as if they were still. Setting the shutter speed on a slower setting gives more exposure to the CCD (charge coupled device - the digital equivalent of film). The effect is that the picture almost seems to run. Moving objects are slightly blurred. You may think this is a bad thing but take an example of running water leaving the shutter speed on for longer will soften the image creating a pleasing image to the eye much like the way a waterfall appears in real life.

You can take digital photography to the extreme with a camera that has a very wide range of shutter speeds. With an incredibly slow shutter speed, you can have a long exposure of light to the CCD and hence receive like the famous traffic scenes where the headlights blend into each other into a constant stream.

Storage Media

Digital Cameras come with a slot for a variety of media cards. Check when you buy your camera what type of storage media it requires. There are several popular types including Smart Media, compact flash and xD picture cards. As long as you know what type your is you should be able to safely by the correct type. Always ask at your local store if you are unsure. If you give them your make and model they should be able to point you in the right direction.

The size of the media card you choose depends on your budget but get as much as you can afford. More memory means that you don't have to change media cards, and you will be able to take pictures in the highest quality all the time. You will soon learn the benefits of having plenty storage space when you start to use your camera regularly.

The good thing about cameras media is that its just like a film if you do run out you can simply insert another one if you have one with you. It can be a bit of a pain when downloading your pictures to your PC but much less more of a pain than having to delete some picture because you have run of space on your media card.

Buying the Digital Camera thats Friendly to Your Wallet

Digital cameras can be pricey - but they can also be cheap. Who wants expensive, anyway? Instead of immediately shelling out hundreds of dollars for a newly-launched model, learn to buy on your terms. You just need to pay attention to the features and bargains and you can have your own camera according to what suits you best. Here are some tips on buying cameras.

The physical design of the camera is not everything. Admit it, consumers always fall for the physical aesthetics. Just because a camera is small, sleek and eye-catching, doesn't mean it will perform well.

" Know your budget. If you are an average photographer with minimal interest in photography, then a $100-199 camera will probably do just fine for you. If you have a passion for photography and are very particular about your shots, then you can have a $200-900 camera. If you consider yourself a professional photographer, then you can spend more than $900 for your camera.

" How many megapixels? The quality of the photos is the number one query of most camera buyers. A 4-megapixel camera is sufficient for average users with a very slim budget.

" What capacity memory card that will work best for you? To get a sense of the capacity you will need, ask yourself some questions about your lifestyle. How often do you take pictures, and how many pictures do you take when you do take pictures? If you take a lot of pictures at a time, then you will want a higher capacity memory card. When and where do you take pictures? If you go on extended vacations then you will want higher capacity as well and you may want to consider back-up memory for your camera.

" Keep yourself in track with sales and promotions. Almost all gadget stores have year-end sales especially when new models are about to come out. You can strike the best deal when you are not rushing to make a purchase.

" When buying discounted digital cameras, set a budget ceiling and stick to it. However, do not compromise quality and warranty for a cheaper deal.



Here are some additional points that you may want to consider:

If you are not a professional, but still want to have latest technology on digital cameras then ask yourself these questions to help you find the right one for you.

Does size matter? The size of the camera is an important factor for most buyers. Almost always, the smaller the camera, the better.

Do you want to achieve best quality photos? Then check out the sensor photo detectors (mega pixels).

Do you want a camera with a good LCD monitor size? It’s always safe to get a camera with an average size of LCD monitor for this gives you a peek to the photos you have taken.

Does the camera feature digital zoom? Does the camera support manual focus?

How often do you take pictures? Do you store photos in your camera? Remember to check the size of the internal and external memory of the camera before buying. If the memory is not enough, you can purchase additional memory sticks or large capacity memory sticks.

Does the camera support USB? A USB connection is the easiest way of transferring or uploading photo files to your computer when your memory is full.

Can you set your own shutter speed? Setting the shutter speed controls the exposure of the picture. You may not be interested in this now but you may be later so this is a good feature to have.

Can you set you own aperture? The aperture setting controls the size of the shutter opening. Like the shutter speed, this is an advanced feature, which you may want to experiment with down the road.

Does your camera have video features? Videos are great fun, and like most functionality, you might find you use it all the time once you have it!

How much does the camera weigh? Look for a camera that is easy to handle and light.

Inject some practicality when spending your money. Hype is not everything. Just because a certain digital camera brand is getting all the attention in the media, does not mean you have to have it. Know what you want and what you need. It only takes a few hours to make a research and comparison of brands. Then you can get a cheaper digital camera brand that can reflect you and your personality.

Fujifilm FinePix A303 Digital Camera

Two years ago I purchased my first digital camera. At that time, prices for a 3.0 and higher mega pixel camera were around $350. Since then, as with all electronic gadgets, prices have dropped significantly while the mega pixels have gone up. I chose the Fujifilm's A303 digital camera, which has fared well for me, so permit me the opportunity to tell you why.

I desperately needed a digital camera when my web business took off. On many different occasions I found myself wanting to take a picture of a person, place or thing and having to rely on a 35mm camera. Trouble was I wasn't very good at taking pictures. Usually my subject came out blurry or the picture needed cropping. Yes, getting pictures developed on disk would have resolved the latter problem, but it was the former problem -- blurry pictures -- that was causing me the most grief. If only I could see "on the spot" how my picture turned out. If it turned out poorly, I could reshoot. Naturally, a digital camera presented to me something that no 35mm camera could offer; I made the purchase of a 3.2 mega pixel camera by Fujifilm after considerable shopping around and reading product reviews online.

Packed within a tough grey shell, the A303 is lightweight and can fit easily into your pant pockets. The camera's controls are simple to figure out and include a Menu/OK button, Back button, viewfinder, viewfinder lamp, a display buttion and LCD monitor to preview pictures without looking through the viewfinder or to review pictures already taken. A round dial in the back of the camera features a self timer mode where you can set the camera and ten seconds later have the picture go off. Great for when you want to get the entire family's picture and no one is around to take it. There are also close up modes, still image, playback and movie modes. The movie mode results in a fairly choppy and short film, but it is a neat feature to have nevertheless.

The standard camera comes equipped with a 16mb picture card. Most people will find that inadequate, so I paid a little bit extra and bought the 64mb upgrade. I also purchased rechargeable AA batteries -- it takes two -- and a recharger. You will sap your batteries quickly if you take 30-40 or more pictures at a time, so the recharger makes sense. I purchased the accompanying Fujifilm carrying case to house my other supplies.

Pictures come out clear and in two years of picture taking I have not experienced a single problem with the camera. At 3.2 mega pixels the pictures are more than adequate as virtually everything I do gets posted to the internet. Supposedly you do not need more mega pixels when posting/viewing pictures online. With the included USB cable and HP software, you will be uploading pictures to the internet in no time.

If there are any drawbacks with the A303 there is just one and it is a glaring problem: the time between shots can seem endless! I suppose the elapsed time is only about ten seconds, but it seems like an eternity especially compared to 35mm cameras. Technological improvements have closed the gap considerably with newer models, but if you need this camera to take a group of shots quickly you will be disappointed.

All in all, the A303 is a very good camera. I give it a 4-star rating for ease of use, price, and dependability.