Media Extenders and the Wired (or Wireless) Home

If you?ve been online reading lately about digital home entertainment equipment, a phrase that you may be seeing more frequently is ?media extender?. This refers to a device that essentially ?extends? the reach of another media source such as a DVD player.

The more common usage of this term is describing a Media Center Extender, which refers to a device that lets you stream features from a PC that is running Windows Media Center 2005 to other devices such as televisions, radios, and personal audio players.

These ?Media Center Extender? boxes essentially serve to let you make use of some Media Center PC functions directly on your television rather than having to run to a different room in order to set a video playing on a display screen downstairs as previous, more primitive ?media throwers? or other makeshift solutions permitted.

The most famous Media Center Extender that is presently available is certainly the highly touted Xbox 360. Microsoft?s latest foray into the world of console gaming systems is now capable of interfacing with a Media Center PC to provide room-to-room entertainment via either a 100 Megabit wired home network or a wireless one, such as 802.11b or other standards. It cannot send media in reverse, however (from the Xbox 360 to the Media Center PC), which is still a very rare feature among media extenders of any kind due to copyright and other concerns.

Summarily, if you have a Media Center PC with an extensive library of legally-obtained music, video, and other media on this computer, you certainly may have a use for the Xbox 360?s Media Center Extender capabilities, or for one of the other media extenders on the market (offered by LinkSys and other tech manufacturers).

If you?ve been looking for an effective way to bring digital media to each room of your house without having to burn and re-burn CDs and DVDs, media extenders may be the brand new technology for your wired (or wireless) home!

Zed Hayden held the all-time high score for Tetris at his junior high school. Nobody ever came close to beating him, except for that kid in the chess club. When he is not playing video games or working on his 1984 Trans Am, he writes for GizmoCafe.com ? an online consumer electronics guide that is the home of the Gizmo Guy, with the latest buzz in consumer electronics, retro video game systems and more.

DLP TVs

DLP TVs are based on the concept of DLP technology, which essentially has every pixel position displayed on the screen. Due to the very small distance between the micro-mirrors, the pixels remain invisible to the eye and thus the picture display in these TVs render a smooth viewing, having no or little effect on the ambient light.

The new display technology in TV display has begun to catch the headlines. In 1970, Larry Hornbeck, of Texas Instruments (TI), developed the first version of the DLP technology, which was made available for commercial use in the year 1996. Since that time DLP TV has been meeting increasing demand in the market, being less expensive, though no less capable, large screen TVs. After having experimented for years, with micro-chips, that hold millions of mirrors, TI finally came out with the product, which has been growing in demand. The DLP is now the heart of many DLP TVs manufactured by well known manufacturers like RCA, RCA, Samsung, LG, Toshiba, Zenith, and Panasonic, to name a few. With so many manufacturers taking on the DLP technology, DLP TV is expected to account for quite a substantial share in the whole of the TV market.

The basic technology of the DLP YV lies with the rear-projection unit. These manipulate light and create the picture. This light originates from a centralised source and is projected on to a screen. DLP TV monitors work by deflecting light, in which they utilise a complex system of mirrors, which is used to reflect or deflect red, green, and/or blue light through a optical projection lens, which goes on to the screen in front of you. In order to reflect the light fully, the mirrors switch on and switch off when the light needs to be deflected. By switching on and off with great speed, the DLP technology is able to reproduce gray scale at a staggering accuracy.

The micro-mirrors are called Digital Micro-mirror Device (DMD) and the functional base of the DLP technology is these mirrors, which is referred to as the Binary Spatial Light Modulator. These mirrors are arranged into square grids, which depend on the DMD's aspect ratio. With this 1 mm being invisible to the eye, the complete assembly looks like a solid thumb-nail sized of a mirror, containing millions of micro-mirrors arranged in a grid pattern.

The micro-mirrors on a DMD is independent of its neighbour on the grid and is capable of reflecting light in two directions, viz., either 10 deg toward or 10 deg away from a lens. The light gets reflected on an optical lens, which projects that light on to a screen at a definite pixel. When the micro-mirrors deflect light away from the levs, a light absorber absorbs the light. Hence light does not reach the screen and instead, it produces a dark square pixel image at that particular pixel.

The DLP technology assigns a series of Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) cells within, to hold the data input to the system. This data is fed to the micro-mirror modules, which enables tilting of the mirrors in the desired directions. These signals are in the form of binary digits. where 1 would signify a +10 def tilt and a 0 would make the mirror tilt -10 deg. These are termed as ON and OFF switching. If the light is reflected by the mirror, it is directed towards a projection lens, where it is amplified, and then cast on to the back of the screen. If the light gets deflected, it gets absorbed and that pixel part of the screen remains dark. In this fashion, each pixel position of the screen gets mapped directly corresponding to the micro-mirror behaviour,

A coloured wheel is used in DLP composed of red, green, and blue filters, which direct individual pulses of colored light toward the DMD. This is utilised for gray-scale processing. This would mean that at any one time only one primary colour is hitting the DMD and as the filter system, within DLP, spins fast enough, approximately at the rate of 120 rpm, the colours appear blended into a full colour digital image.

What is the advantage of owning a DLP TV?

First of all DLP TV is pleasant to watch. Since it is a reflective technology, the TVs are brighter than other display technologies. The DLP technology features higher-than-average light efficiency, and as such a DLP TV will perform exceedingly well under most ambient light conditions. Brightly lit rooms will never make the display dull. Due to its reflecting and deflecting technology, DLP TV can achieve deeper, more realistic shadows and blacks than other fixed-pixel display technologies.

One of the disadvantages of DLP TV is that, while it can be watched with shifts of 70 to 75 degrees in the horizontal plane, any such shift in the vertical plane makes the viewing very dull. The TV dos not have those annoying vertical scan lines as you get in the conventional CRT display TVs. This is because the technology utilises pixel position and has its own optical equivalent in the DMD chip itself, giving you a smooth, evenly lit image through out the length and breadth of the display screen. The DMD switches on and off at the rate of 50,000 times per second and produces pictures with no moving streaks or any motion artifacts. This makes DLP TV well suited for gaming.

A DLP TV monitor is capable of displaying HDTV, standard TV, and home video and accepts, which makes texts and graphics look especially sharp one or more RGB inputs from a computer. DLP TV has a very high resolution and perfect geometry of DLP and it is one of the best ways to display data, graphs and web-based contents.

The DLP TV monitor has a very long life. The only element that wears off is the light source, which lasts between 8,000 to 10,000 viewing hours. This can be replaced at an approximate cost of $250, which makes the DLP TV inherently reliable.

110-220 Volt Electronics - A multisystem TV is a TV capable of receiving and displaying different video systems like PAL, SECAM and NTSC. You'll be able to operate a multisystem TV in 99% of the world. Their dual voltage design allows them to be plugged into either a 110 voltage source or a 220 voltage source. In some cases, the plug on the television will not fit your country's outlet, so an inexpensive plug-adapter will be needed. They can generally be picked up at an electronics store such as http://www.planetomni.com for $1.95. With a multisystem TV, such as a plasma, CRT tube type, LCD or DLP, you'll likely need a codefree (sometimes called region free) DVD player. These exist in many forms. When used with a PAL-NTSC TV you'll be able to see the full 625 lines of resolution available in the PAL system and the full 525 lines used in the USA NTSC system. There exists a converting type of DVD player which is codefree in that it can read all of the world's 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. 140,000 other products are available here: http://www.planetomni.com Tel. # 800-514-2984

Some Things Your Projector Dealer Might Not Tell You

A salesman is a salesman. He does not make a living if he does not sell something. So it may sometimes happen that a salesman or a dealer will not tell the buyer all of the relevant facts about a given product. We have tried to list enough of them here to give you a general idea of what to look for and what to ask.

Bulbs or the Headlamp
This is probably the one thing that gets overlooked more than anything else. The bulbs are an expensive part of the home theater system and need to be checked out carefully before purchasing a projection unit. What is the projected bulb life? How many lumens does it generate? These are specific questions that should generate specific answers that the projector dealer may not otherwise mention.

Contrast Ratios
Contrast ratios are something else that needs to be considered. The projector dealer may or may not know the statistics regarding a specific projector unit, but what about the ambient lighting in the room where the projector will be used. Is the light source constant or is it varied? Properly factoring in the light source in the room where the theater projector will be set up is not something that many dealers or salesmen will volunteer to do for the buyer.

Screen
The screen is also an important part of the whole home theater experience. Which screens work best with which types of projectors is likely something the salesman or dealer is not going to know and will not tell you without prodding. Having the information beforehand can save a lot of time and grief when shopping for a home theater projector.

Mounting
What types of mounts are included with the projector is something they may or may not refer to at the projector dealer, but what else is there to consider with mounts? Is the projection unit prone to overheating when mounted on a shelf mount? Is it compatible and able to be mounted in the proper place for the distances in the room where it will be used? Another factor in regards to the mounting of the multimedia projector is the hazard of creating a keystone effect by mounting the projector incorrectly or off center. What kind of variance do the optic lenses on the projector provide to prevent this? Is there only a vertical adjustment or does it have both horizontal and vertical optic controls? Does it only have the keystone adjustments or does it provide digital adjustment as well? Mounting the multimedia projector properly is a key factor in being able to properly enjoy a high quality picture with the home theater projection unit.

Is this the right projector for me?
Is the projector really compatible for the uses that are needed or is the salesman or dealer just trying to push a product off on the consumer? Knowing which projectors are better for what types of displays is something that the dealer may not even know about. Different home theater projectors have different uses. Some work better with movies, videos and video games, and some work better for still-multimedia presentations. Being knowledgeable about which projector does what can save a lot of hassling with the uninformed salesman or the dealer who just wants to move projectors out of his store.

To be forewarned is to be forearmed. No matter how well prepared the salesman is or how honest the projector dealer is, they have many different products that they have to know a lot about. Even the salesman with the best intentions will not know everything about all of the home theater projectors available. There are many things the projector dealer will not tell you.

Note: This article may be republish for use in websites as long as the author bio and active hyperlinks are kept intact.

Clifford Tan, a Home Theater enthusiast and owner of the website Home Projector Advisor offering projector reviews, advice and many useful tips and hints to business and home consumers looking to purchase a home projectors. To find out alot more information about home projection system, visit the site http://www.home-projector-advisor.com

8 Tips for Protecting a Digital Camera's Memory Card

It's Monday evening, you've made it through the first day back into your routine after a much needed and memorable vacation. You pull out the memory card from your digital camera thinking you'll download the photographs that record the spectacular sights, reunions with seldom seen loved ones, and memorable events that you experienced in the previous days.

But then the unthinkable happens. With your digital camera in hand you connect to the PC but the photographs can not be retrieved; they are lost. What could cause such a catastrophic failure and more importantly, how could a repeat of this scenario be avoided?

The way that memory cards for your digital camera are handled, used, and stored can greatly influence the length of their useful life and dependability. Observing a few precautions can be the difference between the disappointment of lost images and the pleasure of having pictures with which to reminisce.

Avoid physically damaging memory cards:

?avoid exposure to direct sunlight and temperature extremes

?protect memory cards from exposure to moisture and store in a low humidity environment

?do not write or put stickers on the cards

?store cards in a protective case or leave them in the camera to avoid accidentally breaking them or getting dirt or dust on them

Protect memory cards through proper use:

?keep the batteries of the digital camera fully charged to assure they don't fail while shooting pictures as a failure may result in lost images and permanent damage to the card

?be sure data has been saved, the process completed, before removing the card from the camera or card reader; it's best to turn the digital camera off before removing the card

?move images to the computer to edit rather than editing photos on the card itself

?delete images and re-format the card in the digital camera after downloading on a regular basis

Although the failure of a digital camera's memory card is a rare occurrence, the results can feel tragic nonetheless. Observing manufacturer's guidelines and some of the precautions reviewed above can help to circumvent the unnecessary loss of photographs.

Christine Peppler shares information on home entertainment and home electronics products, including digital cameras, on her website at: http://www.homemedias.info

Top 5 19" LCD Monitors on the Market

When you are considering a 19? LCD monitor for your computer, you want to make sure you get the best. When looking at the top 5 19? monitors on the market, it is important to find those that are quick and helpful in terms of office production. Price, function, and a number of other factors can influence which monitors are in the top 5, but this list will at least give you a starting point.

The first of the top 5 19? LCD monitors on the market is the LG Electronics Flatron L1950B. With a resolution of 1280 by 1024 and several available adjustments, this is a great monitor for anyway. It has an easy to use height adjustment feature to keep it at eye level as you work. Also, this very slim and flat monitor gives a great looking image that is easy on the eyes and helps prevent fatigue.

The second LCD flat screen monitor to make its way into the top five is the Dell UltraSharp 1905FP. This monitor comes in with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 with a number of available adjustments to that you can have it just how you like it. It also includes three 2.0 USB ports and a full range of adjustments of the physical settings. It is easy to use and offers a great picture.

Third on the top 5 19? LCD monitors on the market is the ViewSonic VP930b. With a good resolution, again, at 1280 by 1024, the ViewSonic offers smooth and easy to use physical adjustments that allow you to comfortable with the monitor. The monitor even has a very nice stable stand that keeps it in place and makes the physical adjustments easier.

The fourth on the list ist he NEC MultiSync 90GX2. The resolution on this one is, like with most of these, 1280 by 102. The adjustment is limited to tilt and swivel, but in most cases the height is actually pretty good. The screen is a glossy design that makes text easy to read and contrast prime. Scrolling through screen menus is easy so that picture adjustment is simple and quick for anyone.

Finally, in the top 5 19? LCD monitors on the market is the Hyundai ImageQuest Q90U. Limited in adjustment to just tilt, the resolution is the same as all the rest at 1280 by 1024. There are two easy to use and reach USB 2.0 ports on this model. Three is a low response time to the monitor, but it does not really cause any problems in general use. Overall, it is still a strong monitor that you can get for about 40% less than the other models on the list.

Overall, looking at the top 5 19? LCD monitors on the market can help you decide what will work best for you. In your home office, at work, or for fun these monitors are going to be easier on your eyes and better for space management. You will be glad you took the time to equip yourself with a flat screen LCD.

Stu Pearson has an interest in Business & Technology related topics. To access more information on lcd monitor review or on best lcd monitor, please click on the links.

Automated DVD Duplicators

DVD duplicators are also available as an automated system in which no manual intervention is required once the copy process starts. To use these devices, you just have to insert your master DVD, insert your stack of blanks and leave the system to copy hundreds of DVDs overnight. You don?t need to sit and watch or remove copied DVDs; you just press the button and off it goes. Most automated systems usually have the option of supporting automated DVD printing.

Owning an automated DVD duplicator will enable you to produce batches of DVDs at up to a thousand per session. The smart robotized solutions will save you the money you might have spent on hiring human resources. That will allow you to employ more people for design and content creation.

Although DVD replication still remains cost-effective for single runs over 1,000 units, automated DVD duplicator is the only option if you are in need of real flexibility.

If you use an automated DVD duplicator system in combination with a DVD printer, you will discover a whole new world of creativity opening up to you. Setup charges for replication will no longer bother you; you will be in a position to customize every job.

The market for DVDs is already huge and still growing by the day. An automated DVD

duplicator is an asset for any office, as businessmen are now aware that a major portion of their total expenditure is spent on data and internal data storage requirements. An automated DVD duplicator is of great help when one requires backing up and sharing a huge quantity of data, both within and outside the business.

You will find a number of automated DVD duplicators available in the market. You can compare their prices and features online, and then make your choice according to your requirements.

DVD Duplicators provides detailed information on DVD Duplicators, CD DVD Duplicators, DVD Duplicator Printers, Automated DVD Duplicators and more. DVD Duplicators is affiliated with DVD R Duplication.

720p Vs 1080i HDTV

Is 720p vs 1080i worth being concerned about? Yes and no. If you're a consumer looking for a new TV, you can happily ignore the 720p vs 1080i debate because every TV which is described as HDTV or HDTV Ready is required to support both formats.

NOTE: You should be aware though that lots of TVs which support 1080i have fewer than 1080 lines and so scale the 1080 signal down. That's not a huge issue as even scaled down 1080i is far ahead of a regular NTSC signal. It is worth bearing in mind that more expensive HDTVs tend to have better scalers than cheaper ones, and this may be an issue.

However, for broadcasters it's a live issue. Should they broadcast 1080 lines of interlaced video or 720 lines of progressive scan? They could just broadcast two signals, one in each format, but that would use up a huge chunk of bandwidth and be hugely expensive for very little gain.

To answer the question, it's important to understand the difference between 720p vs 1080i. A 720p signal is made up of 720 horizontal lines. Each frame is displayed in its entirety on-screen for 1/30th of a second. This is know as progressive scan (hence the 'p')The quality is like watching 30 photographic images a second on TV. A 1080i signal comprises 1080 horizontal lines but all the lines are not displayed on-screen simultaneously. Instead, they are interlaced (hence the 'i'), ie every other lines is displayed for 1/60th of a second and then the alternate lines are displayed for 1/60th of a second. So, the frame rate is still 30 frames per second, but each frame is split into two fields, which your brain then puts together subconsciously.

Most of the time interlacing works fine, but for fast moving images, such as sports like baseball and hockey it can cause problems which manifest themselves as a 'stepping' effect on-screen. Progressive scan signals don't have this problem and so are better suited to sports.

ESPN puts it like this: 'Progressive scan technology produces better images for the fast moving orientation of sports television. Simply put, with 104 mph fastballs in baseball and 120 mph shots on goal in hockey, the line-by-line basis of progressive scan technology better captures the inherent fast action of sports. For ESPN, progressive scan technology makes perfect sense.'

Bottom line? For us, as consumers 720p vs 1080i is not a debate worth worrying about, so you can relax and focus on all the other criteria on your list when you buy your next HDTV.

Kenny Hemphill is the editor and publisher of The HDTV Tuner - a guide to the kit, the technology and the programming on HDTV.

Do You Really Need A Portable DVD Player?

Have you ever been on a long boring bus or train raid just looking out through the window with out anything to do? Wouldn't it be nice to be able to watch your favourite's movies on your way to your destination instead? A portable DVD player allows you do just that. A portable DVD player is a small DVD player with a small screen attached to it allowing you to watch movies where ever you. Now you might be thinking so what, Portable DVD players are nothing new. That?s true but it's only in recent time that they have become inexpensive. Today almost everyone can afford a portable DVD player.

A portable DVD player plays regular DVD discs or Digital Video Discs. A DVD disc is 4.72 inches (120 mm) in diameter and can store 4.7 GB of data. They work in the same way as CD discs but utilize a shorter wavelength laser and can therefore store a lot more information on a disc than your standard CD.

Most Portable DVD players can read regular CDs as well but is still not suitable to replace your portable CD player. This is due to the fact that even if DVD players can read CDs they are specialised to handle video media and will as such not handle music as well as a unit specialised for musics. This does not need to be a problem and you might very well feel that the sound quality in a portable DVD player is good enough to use it as a CD player. You will however feel differently if you are a Sound snob. CD players can't play DVD discs since reading a DVD requires more advanced and sophisticated technique than the technique in a CD player.

One my wonder why portable DVD players hasn't been available at low prices for a long time when the technique used is similar to the technique used in CD players and portable CD players have been around forever. The answer is simple. A portable DVD player requires a large amount of miniaturization of technology to make it possible to fit so much into a small container. A portable DVD player does after all not only contain a DVD player but also a flat screen, all of which should fit into something that you can easily hold in one hand.

I mentioned earlier that portable DVD players today have become cheap enough to allow the average Joe to get one but does one actually need one. The simple answer is no. You could just bring a book or a deck of cards along with you on your trips which both would give you something to do on your trip and are considerable cheaper than a portable DVD player. A portable DVD player could however give you a lot of fun and a cheaper model could very well be worth considering since they can bring you some fun even though you don't actually need one. And sometimes one just feels like spoiling oneself with something one don't actually need. I know I do.

Read more information about portable DVD players. An alternative to a portable DVD player can be a DVD player software for your laptop.

Playing Music or Other CDs With a Code Free DVD

The technological jump has been instrumental in revolutionizing the entire home entertainment scenario. Region free DVD players ushered in a new era of change, which has impacted viewing and listening experience the world over.

Now we have all seen CDs. They are present literally everywhere. Our homes, workplaces, inside our computers and laptops, you name it and CDs are there. CDs are in fact similar to DVDs. One of the important things about DVDs is that they are able to store more data than CDs. A code free DVD can, to put it simply, hold around seven times the data that a CD could hold. This is the reason why a region free DVD can store a MPEG-2 encoded movie effortlessly, along with a lot of information.

From the time they hit the markets in 1997, DVDs and DVD players have become remarkably popular. A typical code free DVD can store up to 133 minutes of video. What is more when it comes to storing music also, code free DVDs have the edge over conventional CDs. A DVD can store around six to eight hours of music per side, with a significantly higher quality audio output than a CD.

A code free DVD comes to you with a host of features that you would not find with a VHS tape; the labeled on-screen index, for instance. You can now choose the part of the movie you want to see using your remote effortlessly. When it comes to the features available in region free DVD players, there are plenty. You have Dolby digital sound, surround sound, features for enhancing picture quality, and what not. Most of the region free DVD players are also compatible with audio CDs.

Code free DVDs are manufactured using the same methods as in the case of CDs. They work on the same principle of having ?pits? and ?bumps?. A code free DVD is made up of layers of plastic and is around 1.2 millimeters thick. A code free DVD is able to store more data than a CD, thanks to various reasons like having more area and a multi-layered storage facility. Code free DVD players have extremely sensitive components to read the equally sensitive and small region free DVDs. Region free DVD players have a ?MPEG- 2? decoder. This decoder can read compressed data and enables you to watch your favorite flicks.

Many movies are filmed at a rate of four frames per second. Most of the countries around the world like America or Japan have television sets that use the NTSC format, which enables 30 frames per second. Many European countries like Italy, France, Greece, UK, and Spain use the PAL format, with a display speed of 50 fields per second. It is because of these regional differences that a DVD player has to be formatted to be compatible with all or most of the systems. When it comes to the standards, as we have seen there are lots of standards like PAL, SECAM, NTSC, or PAL-SECAM, depending on the geographical location. These standards are subject to varying based on the location. Code free DVD players, however, enable you to play literally any DVD, whatever may be the region of its origin, and support most of or all of the standards. So they are called ?region free,? ?code free? or ?zone free? players.

Modern code free DVD players literally pack a punch and are great at decoding different formats to give you a superior picture quality and an amazing audio output. Since region free DVD players are designed specifically for playing code free DVDs with some special features, many times you will find that even your PC is unable to play a DVD. The reason is the superior processing power of a code free DVD player, which gives it the edge over some computers.

One can find DVD audios flooding the market recently. Although DVD audio players meant to play only audio are rare to find, most of the code free DVD players can play DVD audio discs. The format of a DVD audio disc is different from that of a DVD video. Good code free DVD players have something known as ?digital to analog converter? (DAC) in them to play these discs. It is always recommended that you get a code free DVD player with a 192kHz/24-bit converter for superior audio quality.

The DVD audio quality is better than the conventional CDs. They also make for great recording, offering you better accuracy. One can get still enhanced sound quality on code free DVD players by connecting them to a home theater system, preferably with around five speakers. Also check out whether your system is ?Dolby digital ready.? If it is, you can have the ultimate movie experience - so great is the sound quality.

The principle on which a code free DVD player works is similar to that of a CD player. Laser beams hit the surface of the disc to read the ?pits? and ?bumps.? The video signal is then sent to a television set and the audio signal to the speakers, after being amplified by a decoder. Most of the region free DVD players play both movies and music CDs. Similarly, most of the modern day code free DVD players enable you to play recorded content in the form of CD-Rs, which you could have done using your computer. You have the latest code free audio DVD players which handle only audio discs.

Almost all good brands of code free DVD players will have standard features like decoders, Dolby digital decoders, surround sound, and many other things. If you are in the market for a code free DVD player, your options are plenty. You can choose from a wide range from leading names like Sony, Samsung, Aiwa, Apex , Thompson, to mention only a few. There are also a lot of smaller companies who can give you equally good region free DVD players. You can always go through referrals. They may be of great help.

You can also do a bit of research on the Internet and find literally hundreds of models of region free DVD players. The basic models would cost you about $30 - $70. Although they are termed as basic models, the latest models in this segment come with a host of features. Buy the ones with the progressive scan technology as they offer better video quality. If you are willing to splurge a little more than $100, then you can go in for the higher models, which would come to you with a host of other features. You can record with these models. If you are unwilling to let go of your good old VHS tapes, you can always go in for region free DVD player-VCR combos. You can get a good player for around $200.

If you?re an avid gamer, you might find satisfaction in DVD players with ?nuon? technology, the latest in the market. These players come with additional features, where you can attach a mouse or a joy stick, enabling you to play interactive games. These game stations could set you back by about $400. Leading brands like Samsung and Sony offer great models in this segment. If you want multi-disc players or ?juke boxes,? as they are popularly known for their ability to play both DVDs and CDs at the touch of a button, can go in for these models, which could cost you upwards of $400. And just in case you are one of those high-flying, jet-setting executives, you can always grab a portable model. You can get one of these models for up to $700 or even more, depending on the features.

Where to get REGION FREE DVD players/recorders. To prevent the latest movies from reaching countries where a film has not reached theaters yet, Hollywood studios imposed a block. This regional coding is a digital flag on the disc that tells the DVD player where a particular DVD comes from. This is supposed to prevent the disc from being used by an incompatible player in another country. A normal DVD player can only play discs designated for the player's own particular region. However, a codefree DVD player is a capable of playing DVD discs from anywhere around the world. A codefree DVD player can play DVD discs from all 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. That's every DVD movie on earth! PAL-NTSC 110-220 volts DVD/VCR Combos for use worldwide. CODEFREE DVD / PAL-NTSC VCR combos and MULTISTANDARD VCRs will play 100% all known DVD discs including FRENCH DVDs. You can buy region free and region free converting DVD players and region free DVD recorders from http://www.mindlogic.com in California. They give you a LIFETIME Warranty and ship worldwide. Tel.800-514-2984 or tel. 925-686-9945

They have more thank 140,000 consumer electronics including multisystem pal TVs such as plasma, LCD, DLP etc. They also have free standing video standards converters from Tenlab and converting PAL-SECAM,NTSC, PAL-N , PAL-M VCRs and much more.

DVD Duplicators

DVD duplication, also called burning, is a process that copies your data onto a disc, by ?burning? small pits onto the surface of the disc using laser beams. Unlike replication, duplication has very low project start-up and higher per-unit costs. Naturally, it is more convenient when volumes required do not exceed 200 units or so.

A DVD duplicator is an asset for any office, as business houses are now aware that a major portion of their total expenditure is spent on data and internal data storage requirements. A DVD duplicator comes in handy when one needs to back up and share a huge quantity of data both within and outside the business.

Better still, a DVD duplicator is easy to buy and highly affordable. Several good DVD duplicators are available in the market; you just need to find the right choice for you.

A DVD duplicator will also copy CDs. Go for a second-hand duplicator only if it comes with a complete warranty. You will find that the price of newer duplicators is often lower than you would expect, and the more recent the model the faster it will duplicate DVDs.

The standalone tower system is the most common form of DVD and CD duplicator. These duplicators can function without a PC and generally comprise a number of multiple optical drives in a tower. A controller card operates these drives, thus enabling multi-copy action. The master disc is generally inserted into the reader drive, and then blanks are inserted into target recorder drives. Once insertion is complete, the operator will simply press a button to start the copy process.

DVD duplicators are also available as automated systems in which no manual intervention is needed once the copy process starts. These duplicators are costlier, due to their requirement for robotics. An autoloader on a duplicator is ideal for any company that does not have enough workers to take care of a tower system.

DVD duplicators are ideal for copying video, data, games, software and corporate presentations onto multiple DVDs for distribution.

DVD Duplicators provides detailed information on DVD Duplicators, CD DVD Duplicators, DVD Duplicator Printers, Automated DVD Duplicators and more. DVD Duplicators is affiliated with DVD R Duplication.

Multisystem VCRs

Normally, a multi system VCR permits you to play video tapes from all over the world, but is not capable in converting the video signals. Therefore, if you are using a NTSC system, a multi system VCR may not allow you to watch a PAL tape on your NTSC television. A converting multi system VCR is then required which will convert its video output signal through a in-built video converter, so that a PAL video tape could be played on an NTSC TV. With an ordinary multi system VCR, you will need to procure an external Tenlab video converter or a multi system TV. Normally these days the multi system VCR?s are being manufactured with in-built Video Converters. A multi system TV is capable of playing all the video formats like NTSC, PAL and SECAM.

On the same fundamentals, whether the video signals are in PAL, NTSC or SECAM, a multi system VCR will have the corresponding output.

Now the question arises, how will you view the tapes on your TV?

Well, there are a number of ways to execute this. As mentioned above, only a multi system VCR alone won't be helpful. You will need to have a TV, which has either an in-built converter or an external one. Therefore, to watch a PAL video tape on a NTSC TV with your multi system VCR, the signal from the VCR need to pass through the signal converter before your TV can operate in PAL. However, some multi system VCRs already have the video converter installed internally, and in this case, there is no need to purchase an external one. The disadvantage to these VCRs is that the image quality they produce is not as good as a multi system VCR and an external video converter combination.

The other possibility is the combination of a multi system VCR and a multi system TV. As discussed above, a multi system VCR only supports the type of signal coming in and does not have the capability of signal conversions. A multi system TV, with its inherent conversion capability, transforms PAL, SECAM or NTSC signals appropriately, would play the video tape in your multi system VCR. The disadvantage of such playing arrangement is that, converted copies of the video tape cannot be made. On he other hand, there are no video degradation with the combination mentioned above.

The final possibility is to get a multi system TV/VCR combo. This solution is not recommended because TV/VCR combos tend to be of low quality.

Common characteristics of Multi System VCR

A VCR needs only two video heads. to record and playback a tape, Additional heads are used for special effects, if any, such as slow motion, freeze frame, etc. Many manufacturers are going for modification in the video heads in different ways to improve the picture quality. Many VCRs now offer quick play from the stop point. There are also a huge number of VCRs that provide quick access from fast forward or fast rewind to visual scanning, and quick access from visual scanning to play. Many models now feature pre-programmed universal remotes with the ability to control TV and cable boxes. A universal remote will control the same brand of TV as your VCR. Virtually all VCRs let you choose between two or three different recording speeds. Playback speed is automatically set, and even VCRs that record in only two speeds play back on all three speeds. Although, a faster-moving tape allows less recording time, it provides a better-quality recording. Because many people do time-shift recordings at the slowest speeds, some manufacturers, such as Toshiba, Mitsubishi, and Sharp, have developed special video heads (19-micron heads) for improved picture quality for recording and playback at the slowest speeds.

Many VCRs record an electronic index code at the beginning of each recording. To scan your recordings on a tape, you press index search. The VCR then stops at each index mark, and plays back a few seconds of the recording. Some VCRs even let you go directly to a specific index mark and start playback.

Allows you to search forward or backward through a tape at a range of fast and slow speeds. Jog control allows you to move the tape forward or backward frame by frame.

These models set their own clock thanks to a time signal being sent from your local PBS station. This means that you never have to set the clock initially or reset it after a blackout or brownout. When power is restored, the VCR will display the correct time. Auto Clock Set is now found on many mid- to upper-end models.

If you are buying a multi system VCR mainly to record television broadcasts, then programming is an important thought which should be given due importance. Except for VCPs (video cassette players), all multi system VCRs can be programmed at will to record at least one desired program. The most basic programming proposal uses a built-in clock timer that you set to start and stop within the next a 24-hour period. More complicated programming allows you to record several different programs on different channels or a period of 28 days or more (one manufacturer claims their machine will record eight programs over a 100-year period). Other program operations let you record the same program every day or every week. Many VCRs include VCR Plus+, a simple method of programming by entering a number listed in TV Guide or many newspapers' television guides. Some VCR Plus+ models will also change channels on your cable box via a mouse, blaster, or an infrared transmitter located on the top of the VCR.

Another characteristic is the Hi-fi sound system that stands for high-fidelity, or high-quality sound. It is a new true stereo--not the low-pitched sound that was accessible on VCRs quite a few years ago. If you are thinking of taking a new VCR or even replacement, then certainly, hi-fi is the one upgrade feature that you should consider. All movies and videos manufactured now have hi-fi soundtracks encoded with Dolby Surround system.

110-220 Volt Electronics - A multisystem TV is a TV capable of receiving and displaying different video systems like PAL, SECAM and NTSC. You'll be able to operate a multisystem TV in 99% of the world. Their dual voltage design allows them to be plugged into either a 110 voltage source or a 220 voltage source. In some cases, the plug on the television will not fit your country's outlet, so an inexpensive plug-adapter will be needed. They can generally be picked up at an electronics store such as http://www.planetomni.com for $1.95. With a multisystem TV, such as a plasma, CRT tube type, LCD or DLP, you'll likely need a codefree (sometimes called region free) DVD player. These exist in many forms. When used with a PAL-NTSC TV you'll be able to see the full 625 lines of resolution available in the PAL system and the full 525 lines used in the USA NTSC system. There exists a converting type of DVD player which is codefree in that it can read all of the world's 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. 140,000 other products are available here: http://www.planetomni.com Tel. # 800-514-2984

Plasma vs. LCD TV Right Now

Are you yearning for a flat screen TV but can?t decide which kind is better; this article will look at plasma vs. LCD TVs and the specific features of each. Plasma TVs may have a slight edge over the LCD TVs for now, but LCD TVs may soon take over as king of the flat screen world and win the plasma vs. LCD TV match off. The following is a break down comparison of plasma vs. LCD TVs.

Plasma had gotten an early lead in the plasma vs. LCD TV game on producing large format TVs such as the 42 and 50 inch models. Because they have been around slightly longer, the price for these larger models has already begun to drop $5,000 plus as the price we saw several years ago, all the way down to $2,500 or less today. This earns plasma one point in the plasma vs. LCD TV match off.

Until recently, LCD TVs were unable to produce anything much larger than 30 inches. That is now changing though and LCD TV manufacturers are now coming out with more and more 42 and 50 inch models which will create competition in plasma vs. LCD TVs.

The most popular size is the 42 inch and this is the size that manufacturers are producing more and more of in the plasma vs. LCD TV battle. Due to this overproduction, we will begin to see an even greater drop in prices of the 42 inch models. Currently in the plasma vs. LCD TV battle, plasma wins on the price because of their head start on producing the larger models. In the next couple years however, LCD TVs will be slashing prices even more and giving plasma a run for their money in the plasma vs. LCD TV match off.

If you are a customer who enjoys multimedia benefits in the same electronics source then LCD TVs beat out plasma in the plasma vs. LCD TV battle thanks to their PC inputs and memory sticks that allow you to use the LCD TV screen as a computer monitor. You can also play MP3 audio files and share pictures from you digital camera on many LCD TVs today. You will also get crisper graphics and text on a LCD TV rather than a plasma, which is perfect for any video game fan. As far as multimedia capabilities are concerned LCD TVs earns a point in the plasma vs. LCD TV game.

Why are LCD TVs are gaining an edge in the plasma vs. LCD TV battle? For one thing, LCD TVs have a longer life than plasma TVs, beating them out by about 20,000 life hours. Also, LCD TVs do not have the problem with burn-ins that plasma TVs face. LCD TVs gain a point in the plasma vs. LCD TV match off simply because they will last longer. While the 42 inch TVs rule for now, another plus about LCD TVs is that they are able to produce small and portable models also which is very popular among families with children who go on long car rides.

While they won?t destroy plasmas altogether, LCD TVs will definitely win the plasma vs. LCD TV popularity contest as their prices drop and reliability increases in the next couple years.

Visit http://www.relcdtv.com to learn all about LCD Television and the new lcd tv trends and information.

Macrovision and Its Relationship to Region Free DVD Players

Macrovision works by distorting video signals through the use of ?automatic gain control chip? in a VCR, if the video is being recorded. In order to understand the entire mechanism as to how Macrovision works, you need to have at least some technical know-how of the region free DVDs? working methodology. Most of the region free DVD players support certain standards like NTSC, SECAM, or PAL. These standards, which are incorporated in the code free DVD players, could vary from country to country. For instance, countries like USA, Canada, and Japan use the NTSC video standard, while European countries like Italy, Spain, France, or UK usually use PAL standards. The standards are based on the resolution of the video signal.

There are certain control codes present in the signals. Macrovision works by adding certain codes to these control codes, which are interpreted through the automatic gain control chip present in a VCR. This entire process scrambles the video signal, in case a video is being recorded. Copies from Macrovision-encoded material will usually be of poor quality, especially when it comes to color or brightness. One is likely to come across picture instability in such cases.

It is estimated that around 80% of VCRs have automatic gain control circuitry incorporated in them. What this means is that nearly millions of videocassettes are being provided with copy protection.

It must be mentioned here that there are products available in the gray market, which can defeat Macrovision protection. There are also several models of VCRs which ignore Macrovision signals, passing on uncorrupted signals to television sets. There are several models of zone free DVD players which do not have copy guard protection. One can find out by checking out the specifications on a player to find out if it is Macrovision free.

A recent development in this area has been the introduction of a new system called Regional Code Enhancing, which is a part of new DVD releases in Region 1. This technology prevents consumers from watching DVDs purchased in North America with their region free DVD players. As with every technology, manufacturers have found ways to circumvent this too, with most players supporting RCE discs. All one needs to do is to change the region using the remote. It is therefore always important to check for the specifications, when one is going to purchase a code free DVD player.

Gone are the good old days when you had to wait for the blockbusters to hit the big screen, for the ultimate movie experience. Today is the age of home entertainment. One can watch the latest Hollywood flicks right in the comfort of their home, thanks to the region free DVD players.

The trend of watching movies on code free DVD players is increasing all over the world. With sophisticated technology, you can watch DVDs from all over the world, irrespective of the zone or region, with a code free DVD player. You can watch a DVD from Japan in USA, or one from USA in France, that is what a region free DVD player enables you to do. DVDs are popular for various reasons. You can watch them at your home and additionally you can also sometimes get to see even uncensored footage from TV shows. Another thing is the fact that DVDs are cost effective means to great entertainment.

It must be said that not every time can you watch your favorite movies on region free DVD players. The reason being there are lots of issues with relation to a movie?s rights. For instance, sometimes the director or producer of a particular movie has control over the rights and the DVD release. Some other times, it is the studio or a specialized studio marketing company, which has all the rights. A DVD might be released in certain countries and not in others, because different studios could have distribution rights in different countries. There are also bodies like the Motion Picture Association of America which have controls over release of DVD and over the technology itself, dictating the trends in the DVD industry.

The rules and regulations on DVD releases differ significantly from one region to another. For instance, the same rules that apply in U.S. would not be applicable in France or Greece. One can find out more in detail about the legal issues involved in DVD releases by visiting online resources dedicated to the topic.

In fact, studios all over the world and even governments in many parts of the world are coming out with stricter laws to end the increasing menace of video piracy. Video piracy is spreading at an alarming rate. The menace is rampant. Even if one country were to enforce the laws strictly, people in other countries come out with DVDs of other regions and so on and so forth. The problem being widespread, technology is increasingly being used to prevent piracy. Macrovision and RCE technologies are good examples. It is always preferable to check for the authenticity of DVDs through their labels. Find out whether they are legal and could be watched in your country.

The presence of technologies like Macrovision has ensured that copyright laws are strictly adhered to. Remember, it is an offence to make copies of discs with copyright and one should not be tempted to do so. The offence is subject to punishment, which could vary from country to country. So the next time you are watching a DVD, make sure that you are not watching a pirated disc. Even though one may have the very latest region free DVD player with all the features, including ones to make copies or record, always remember that it is an offence to infringe on copyright laws.

Where to get REGION FREE DVD players/recorders. To prevent the latest movies from reaching countries where a film has not reached theaters yet, Hollywood studios imposed a block. This regional coding is a digital flag on the disc that tells the DVD player where a particular DVD comes from. This is supposed to prevent the disc from being used by an incompatible player in another country. A normal DVD player can only play discs designated for the player's own particular region. However, a codefree DVD player is a capable of playing DVD discs from anywhere around the world. A codefree DVD player can play DVD discs from all 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. That's every DVD movie on earth! PAL-NTSC 110-220 volts DVD/VCR Combos for use worldwide. CODEFREE DVD / PAL-NTSC VCR combos and MULTISTANDARD VCRs will play 100% all known DVD discs including FRENCH DVDs. You can buy region free and region free converting DVD players and region free DVD recorders from http://www.mindlogic.com in California. They give you a LIFETIME Warranty and ship worldwide. Tel.800-514-2984 or tel. 925-686-9945

They have more thank 140,000 consumer electronics including multisystem pal TVs such as plasma, LCD, DLP etc. They also have free standing video standards converters from Tenlab and converting PAL-SECAM,NTSC, PAL-N , PAL-M VCRs and much more.

Recorders

Recorders are electronic devices that are used to record audio, pictures, or video. Recorders are a great way to store memories permanently. The earliest recorders could record only audio files such as songs, speeches, and any other acoustics. They were made of boxwood and very simple electronic components.

Earlier recorders used magnetic tapes for recording. These days, there are quite a few other modes on which the recorded data can be stored: CDs, DVDs, floppy disks, memory cards, hard drives, cellular phones, cameras, and so on.

Magnetic tape recorders use a tape head with a strong electromagnet that captures fluctuating signals. The signal is captured onto a magnetic tape wherein the original signal is realigned in the magnetic material on the tape. The recorded audio can be played back by running the same tape where the original signal was recreated. Most recorders have recoding as well as playing capacities. Tape recorders are of many kinds, depending upon the size and the options. The data can also be stored for a long time on these tapes. The video tape recorders were a development over the audio tape recorders, as they use a rotating magnetic head for more bandwidth. This allows faster movement of the tape over the head.

Digital recorders are very common these days. Digital recording is much more efficient, faster, and cheaper than tape recording. These recorders use the analog-to-digital converters for that convert the signal into binary digits. Recording data onto CDs or DVDs can be done by a CD- recorder, or by CD-recording drive on the computer. Another kind of recorder is the hard-disk-based recorder. These days, recorders are so advanced technologically that they can do many more functions than just recording, including compression of data and even data protection. DAT, minidisk, and solid state PC card are some of the digital recording media available today.

Recorders provides detailed information on Recorders, DVD Recorders, Digital Video Recorders, Digital Voice Recorders and more. Recorders is affiliated with Stereo Speakers.

Home Audio Recording Fun

I'm not even sure how old I was when I got the gift for Christmas, but I remember thinking it was a pretty impressive piece of electronic hardware. It was really cool looking (technologically speaking), and I was awfully proud to own it. It certainly made for lots of fun times.

What was this high-tech gift, you ask? Why, it was a tape recorder! It was a monographic, reel to reel tape deck that came with it?s own plug-in microphone. I could hold that mic up to my transistor radio?s speaker and record songs onto tape. I could also play the guitar and sing and record every second of it. I could even hide and record conversations from unsuspecting family members. I was in recording heaven!

Years later I owned an 8 track stereo recording deck (ok, that was a mistake). At another point in time I had a stereo cassette recording deck that would physically flip the tape over when one side was finished recording or playing. Now I own a more conventional stereo dual cassette deck, but I no longer use it for recording or much of anything else for that matter.

All my recording is now done on my computer. The audio and midi software available today for computer recording is quite amazing. You can record multiple tracks, edit the recordings and add special effects as desired. Many of the audio recording programs come with their own native special effects such as reverb, compression, flanger, and chorus, to name a few. Some of the recording software can also accept third party effects such as vocal removers, tube amp effects and many more.

Multitrack recording software allows for recording various live instruments, vocals, etc, onto individual tracks. After recording one track, you can play it back while recording another. Once finished, you can mix all the individual tracks down into one stereo track. Some recording software will import and record both audio and MIDI, some audio only. If you have a MIDI keyboard or other MIDI instrument, be sure to pick software that handles both formats.

Creating a simple home audio recording studio is easy. In addition to software, an audio and/or midi interface will allow you to plug all kinds of audio components, microphones and instruments into your computer for live recording, recording from tape or even from your old vinyl lp?s. You can also use a home stereo system as an interface for audio components by running cables to it from your computer?s sound card. A laptop with recording software and a USB interface can serve as a totally portable recording studio. And again, if you have MIDI instruments, be sure to get an interface that will allow connecting them in additon to audio components and instruments.

The digital revolution has made music recording easily available to anyone with a computer. If you enjoy music and want to do more than just download mp3?s from the Internet, get some multitrack recording software and start your own home sound studio.

Steve Leedy is a computer technician and sound hobbysist. His website, at http://www.pcmusicstuff.com, contains information and diagrams on computer music recording.

PSP + Airtunes + Coverbuddy = Dance Party HiFi Wiring

Now that I have my Mac Mini set up to deliver my whole iTunes library to my listening room through Airtunes with Sony PSP remote control, I needed to rewire my hi-fi components. The goal: deliver the digital Airtunes signal through the best DAC in the path and passing the analog signal cleanly through to my loudspeakers. I have no budget, so I must only use components I already own.

I also wanted to test how much I could combat the compressed audio feed?s nasties in the analog realm. My weapons: Taddeo Digital Antidote II and Rogue Audio Magnum 99 Preamp. One of these components won the battle and the other almost lost the whole war.

Airport Express DAC: Stereophile has taught us that the Airport Express?s internal DAC is to be avoided in a hi-fi set up. To successfully use an Airport Express in your signal path you must use its digital optical output feeding an external DAC. The Airport Express outputs a digital signal through the same mini jack port as analog. I just needed this mini-jack to optical adapter from Parts Express.

Digital Optical cable: My optical cable collection is the most neglected cable category in my home theater set up. I?ve read many articles and books (like Audio/Video Cable Installer?s Pocket Guide) lauding the optical cable. Digital coax is universally considered a superior connection?jitter reduction (or least amount of addition), and more stable connectors. So the best optical cable I have is not from a !33t boutique manufacturer but from Best Buy?s favorite: Monster Cable. I?m sure its price surpassed its quality.

With the mini jack adapter clicked in place I insert it into the Airport Express and then snake it across to my Onkyo?s Digital Optical Input 3 (formerly home to Dish HD STB audio output, soon to be sent back to Dish/AT&T for personal budget cuts).

Onkyo DAC and analog passthrough/output: It took me a couple tries to figure out the analog output from my Onkyo AV receiver the Airport Express feeds. My initial attempts pass the digital signal out through an analog out failed. I had to reference the manual to find out that you could not pass a digital only signal to either the analog record out or to Zone 2. I split the Onkyo?s preamp out to deliver the Onkyo DAC signal to my Rogue preamp. One pair of interconnects plugged into the Tape Input while the other remained in the AUX input (with the Rogue?s home theater bypass the AUX input is wired to bypass (duh) the Rogue?s tube gain and output stages). (I hope the Monster Turbine Y Adapters I use to split the preamp out are as transparent as advertised, a small bit of metal and teflon shouldn?t make too much difference, right?)

Problems with Taddeo Digital Antidote 2: I love my TDA 2 for CD playback. I thought for sure they could make compressed digital audio just as sweet as CD. I was wrong. Airtunes through the TDA 2 sounded compressed, congested, boomy, splashy, muted and just super awful. Since this was the way I first wired the rig I was quick to blame the Airport Express and compressed audio delivery. I almost gave up. Always suspicious that I?m doing something idiotic that I think is genius I took the TDA 2 out of the path. Someone just removed the thick veil covering the music.

Gain and Volume Control: When you attenuate digital signals you lose bits along with decibels. I wanted the cleanest signal out of the Onkyo while using the Rogue?s normal volume range. To achieve this I raised the Onkyo?s volume to its reference, 0 db. I kept the Rogue?s gain at the middle setting. This combo gave me manageable volume control on the Rogue with a minimal loss of bit resolution.

With all my wiring (and non-wiring) in place I was finally ready to sit in my listening chair and enjoy any song in my iTunes catalog.

Next: Listening tests and family dance parties.

Father, Husband and Geek. My geeky interests have not changed since I was a kid. I still love comic books, anime, role-playing games, console video games, indie rock, imported toys and mecha models, bad American and great British sitcoms, and all the tech that let?s me experience these hobbies to their fullest. Now that I?m married with children, I?ve had to strike a balance between supporting and pleasing my family and feeding my geekery hunger. Lucky for me, my wife is very accomodating and even geeks out with me on occasion (the ladies love Joss Whedon?s Firefly). My two year old likes anything that moves on the front projection screen and makes noise, so far she is easy to please. Geekwithfamily.com exists to enrich the lives of fellow geeks and the friends and family who put up with them.

What Does the Future have in Store for HomeEntertainment Systems?

The future of home entertainment is currently quite unclear. Many people are happy with DVDs, still amazed at the quality improvement over VHS videos, but the early adopters, as ever, are chomping at the bit to get their hands on the next generation of players and formats. Unfortunately, since the invention of DVD, there has been a split in the industry, and there are two rival formats set to battle it out to be the successor to DVD: HD-DVD and Blu-ray.

HD-DVD is the official successor to DVD from the DVD Forum, the group of companies that came up with the original DVD standard. The HD part stands for ?high density?, like in HDTV, and indicates higher-capacity discs with much better picture quality.

Blu-ray, on the other hand, is supported by a group of breakaway companies led by Sony, the inventors of the format. It is named after the blue laser it uses to read discs, allowing more data to be written on the disc than with normal red laser formats. Sony hopes that the inclusion of Blu-ray in its Playstation 3 video game console will jump-start the format, as it will mean that many people already have a Blu-ray player right there in their home before they?ve even heard about HD-DVD.

Industry insiders and enthusiasts are split on the merits of the format: many feel that Sony must have lost its mind, as including a Blu-ray player in the Playstation 3 will jack the price up, while others are excited to be getting the player so quickly and at a reasonable price. Many believe that HD-DVD will eventually win out, however, simply because of its greater number of supporters.

So what should you do? Historically, markets will only support one video format ? so one of these is destined to be the next VHS, and one is going to be the next Betamax. As anyone who bought a Betamax player can tell you, the best thing to do is to wait and see who wins before you buy anything from the next generation of formats.

John Gibb is the owner of Home Entertainment guidance For more information on home entertainment systems check out http://www.Home-Entertainment-guidance.Info

High Definition DVD

Definition of high definition DVD

High definition DVD is like an evolution in DVD format rather then just an outright revolution. If we compare the audio and video quality the difference just like what was in DVD and VHS Tapes. Now day?s television sets are compatible to display high definition pictures quality. If talk more precisely high definition DVD offers about 1080 lines of video resolution then compare to 576 or 480 lines offered by other DVD.

Need of High Definition DVD

The answer is very similar to the reason for choosing DVD rather then VHS Tapes. Not only high quality audio and video, the increased capacity of High definition DVD is the major advantage over DVD. You can store one full movie in one single disc rather than using multiple disks as earlier.

However using High definition DVD no where means that your existing DVD media gone obsolete. Almost all the latest high definition DVD is fully compatible to the older DVD media. In fact most of latest High Definition DVD formats also capable of increasing the resolution of old DVD to upwards which means you can still enjoys your old collection in latest High definition DVD format. This feature will sooner or later be found in almost all-High definition DVD players. This up scaling not equals to real high definition movies but this can provide you high resolution without loss of quality.

Various format of High Definition DVD

Two major competing formats are HD DVD and other is Blu ray disk or simply BD. Other formats are also there but all these are based in Asia these includes EVD, FVD etc.

Playing High Definition DVD on Computer

As of now there is no fully compatible system is available to play real high definition DVD. To display highest audio/video resolutions there is requirement of high-speed processor and dedicated audio decoding hardware. Cyberlink the maker of PowerDVD has taken some initiatives by demonstrating playing some HD DVD with PowerDVD on Intel Pentium D processor in September 2005.

Cyberlink is also demonstrated paying of Blu Ray disks with PowerDVD. The latest versions of PowerDVD deluxe support various High definition DVD formats including H264 etc. Other players in market are makers of winDVD, another High definition DVD player software.

Blu-ray Vs HD DVD format of High Definition DVD

Blu ray is one of two most popular high definition DVD format. It uses blue-violet laser for reading and writing data that is why is called Blu ray or BD. On the other hand HD DVD is another most popular High definition DVD format. HD DVD is not synonymous to High Definition DVD but it?s just a format of High definition DVD.

HD DVD and Blu Ray both comes in three different formats one is readable only called ROM second is Writable and third is Rewritable.

Hyun Kim is a freelance writeer who writes about loudspeakers, home audio and home theater related topics. He loves to visit Stereo411 to discuss Home Audio topics and he loves to talk about Turntables.

All about HDTV

The HDTV has become increasingly popular since its introduction. There are many well-known electronic manufacturers that have designed many models of the HD style TV. There are multiple sizes, styles and colors that can be attributed to a HD television. Likewise, there are various price tags found on the HD television. With so many choices and decisions ahead of you, don?t feel overwhelmed; there are many great resources to help make your search as quick and painless as possible.

HDTV has been around since the mid 1960?s. In Japan, the first model of the HDTV was created. The innovative electronic geniuses of the United States were quick to follow and the race to perfecting the high definition technology was off to the races around the mid 1990?s.

Basically, the term ?HD? refers to the quality of the broadcast signal that is sent through the television set. The high definition signal represents images that are as crystal clear and lifelike as possible. When you watch a program via the HDTV, you will quickly understand why it is becoming the favorite method of watching TV! The HD signal is digital in nature and provides viewers a 16:9 wide screen format, the same as used in movie theaters. The incredible, lifelike images displayed through HD televisions are unbelievable! You can literally feel like you at the racetrack or on the football field! If you are watching a concert, you will have a front row seat to the magical madness, too!

Many of the leading television manufacturers make at least one model of the HD television set, including: Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Toshiba, Hitachi, RCA, JVC, Mitsubishi, Pioneer and Magnavox. There are multiple sizes of the HDTV available, from as small as 13 inches to as large as 85 inches!

3 types to choose from

There are three different formats that offer the HD technology, including: CRT (paints the image onto the screen. This style is perfect in any lighting condition and from every angle.), LCD (uses 2 different polarized, transparent panels to house a liquid in the middle.) and the Plasma (digital images at a high resolution are created.). Be sure to do a little research to find the format that you will prefer.

Rear-projection CRT televisions are older technology. CRT TV's use three separate cathode ray tubes to create red, green, and blue and the TV combines the three beams before magnifying and projecting the image. The image quality isn't as good as Plasma or LCD technology.

Flat-Panel LCD TVs (liquid crystal display) technology are designed to create sharp, bright images in any lighting condition. LCD flat screen TV models work by shining light through pixel cells, with each cell containing a red, green, and blue component.

Plasma TVs are the thinnest of all types of high definition televisions. You can find a huge range of widths, from 36, right up to 72 inches that offer amazing color accuracy and saturation.

The 2 different types of HDTV

There are two types of hdtv systems, ones that are HDTV-ready and other systems that have an integrated system. HDTV-ready is the definition for a television that is capable high definition programming with the installation of a receiver or tuner. An integrated system is a television with a built in HDTV receiver enabling you to watch programming right out of the box.

If you are not sure as to which brand, size or format you prefer, there are many resources that you can access to make the decision a little easier. Other consumers, that have made a purchase of an HDTV, have written HDTV reviews on their TV of choice. These reviews are unbiased in that some may be favorable and other may not. One thing you can count on is that these reviews are not biased; everyday consumers, like yourself, write them. No one likes to spend their hard earned money on a product that they would have never given a second glance, had they been forewarned. Well, with reviews and ratings from other consumers, you will have a ?heads up?!

When you are in the market for a great new TV, the HDTV is a perfect choice! There are many sizes, styles, formats and prices available. You should have absolutely no problem finding the perfect one for your home or business. If you demand only the best in your life, the HD style TV will fit right in!

Chris Vorelli is a successful writer with info on HDTV reviews & Plasma TV reviews.Get info on Sony plasma TV, Pioneer Plasma TV and Panasonic plasma TV models.

Tape to DVD Transfer

Video tape conversion to DVD

Video tapes and cassettes can be transferred to DVD in the same manner as any other cassettes. They are transferred maintaining the video format. They can also be converted to another format. Ordinarily such transfer copies are made to DVD RW (Read /Write) discs and each disc can have videos playable for six hours duration. A VHS video tape can be converted and recorded on DVD disc as NTSC standard. The VHS, VHS-C, VHS, S-VHS, and MINI DV have video standards of NTSC, PAL, PAL-N, PAL-M, and SECAM respectively. While NTSC is the basic standard in USA, PAL is the basic standard in Europe and Asia. PAL-N is accepted standard in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay while PAL-M is the standard in Brazil. All these video tapes can be converted to DVD in the same format or any other desired format and once converted to DVD they will no more have the standard and zone constraints. While converting tapes to DVDs, you should also remember that some companies making such conversion have a restriction that such DVDs can be played only on DVD+R player and not on the DVD-R player. The converting companies also ordinarily do not refund your money and you should make it doubly sure that with your player and TV the converted DVD will really play. Get the technical advice as best as you can.

The Price tag

Conversion from tape to DVD will involve a cost, ordinarily towards service charges payable to those facilitating the conversion and transfer. The average rates for simple transfer of tape to DVD are around $18-19 per transfer. The average rate on the other hand, for transfer and conversion comes in the range of $28-$30 per such transfer and conversion. If you are getting such services from a distant place, there may be additional shipping charges, though some companies provide free shipping. There are different modes of shipping and the charges depend upon the mode and time taken for the delivery. The shipping thus comes in the range of $5 -$125 depending on mode of delivery within the United States of America.

Items that you may like to transfer from tape to DVD

Before you consider about the item you wish to transfer from tape to DVD you must take care of the copyright indemnities. You must be careful not to violate any copyright laws that may lead you into future litigations or trouble. Some of the personal items you may like to transfer from old tapes preserved with care to DVD for a much greater longevity could be your wedding video, activities of your children while growing up gradually, materials relating to corporate sales and training, study materials, memorable family events or any other special events etc. Apart from these, there could be other tapes and videos that you may like to preserve. A most useful way to preserve the old tapes in a much better form, is to convert those home videos to DVD, since DVD conversions are quite easy and affordable. VHS tapes can also be converted to DVD and the same manner of conversion can be applied to VHS-C, VHS tapes, Hi8 or any such media.

Converting tape to DVD ? methods

The widely used process of transferring a tape by conversion and transfer to a DVD disc is by using an analog-to-DVD converter. A converter may be a stand alone analog to DV converter. One method is to encode the tape to MPEG-2 and then author a DVD. While this process is time consuming, the best part of it is that it gives you the flexibility to edit the video to your liking and requirements. Sometimes you may feel tired and exhausted since taken together, this may mean multiple hours of work to get each hour of video transfer on DVD. The other method is to capture the video to computer using hardware, as MPEG-2. Then you may author and burn a DVD. You spend one hour for getting video of one hour. With this method you have less scope of editing and can effect only the ?cuts-only? editing. When the original tape is good enough not requiring any editing, this may prove to be a faster and less tiring effort. Moreover, even cheap converters like the analog to MPEG boxes can also provide very good quality transferred video. In the other method there is a requirement of converting VHS to DVD and this could affect the quality of video compression adversely.

The Process

A stand alone DVD recorder works like a VCR. It provides the viewer with a DVD copy of the tape in real time. It is a faster, easier, and perhaps the best way for a layman to transfer a tape to DVD. Of course the DVD/VCR, that have Firewire connections for plugging in a DV/Digital5/DV CAM camcorder, the transfer will be much faster, and quality will also be very good. However, you will need to remember the old saying ?there is no fruit without the root?. If the original analog video has flaws then they may be greatly magnified while you go through the process of transfer or conversion and transfer as the case may be.

Maintenance issues

We often forget some basic things while using electronic devices and the processes provided by them. Old tapes may have a conglomeration of residues and the tape heads need to be cleaned periodically in the VCR or Camcorder, whatever you use for the purpose of transfer or conversion and transfer of tapes to DVDs. Make use of the controls to obtain a softer image version which will allow the MPEG-2 encoder to do a good job. Similarly, a less sharp playback system would be more effective and here also you can use the respective control system of the device used for transfer. To convert Hi8 and 8mm to DVD, you may use a Digital 8 Camcorder with your computer. They have some built in devices for noise control and cleaning the analog video before conversion and as a result the end product, comparatively, is of much superior quality. Time is also an important factor since long hours of transfer require a high quality MPEG-2 encoder. You can of course use the system of half-resolution for transfer or conversion. It means using a resolution of 352x480 in place of the normal 720x480 for NTSC. Another important item would be compressed audio since it is economical in space and provides a high quality video. One of the best audio compression devices available in the market is the Dolby Digital/AC3. When you try transfer or conversion of a DV to DVD, the MPEG-2 compressor needs to be of high quality since the DV takes almost 14 GB space and it has to compressed to a 4.7 GB DVD.

One last point

With the enormous improvement in digital technology, transfer of a tape to DVD or its conversion and transfer, have both become comparatively easy. However, a few finer points need to be noted, like having a good quality converter, Camcorder, or VCR and a high quality MPEG-2 compressor, which might be the exact accessories required to produce a high quality DVD by way of transfer or conversion from your old tape. All said and done, a DVD is a much better quality media and long lasting. A time will come when DVDs may completely replace the use of tapes which are already on steady decline. Tapes tend to run out of life fairly quickly and at present there is no better answer than a DVD disc for preservation of your loved videos.

110-220 Volt Electronics and video transfers. We do VCR, VIDEO, VIDEO TRANSFERS, from tape to DVD or tape. VIDEO STANDARDS CONVERSIONS,PAL,SECAM,NTSC,PAL,NTSC,VIDEO TAPE TRANSFER. Done Electronics stores such as http://www.planetomni.com With a multisystem TV, such as a plasma, CRT tube type, LCD or DLP, you'll likely need a codefree (sometimes called region free) DVD player. These exist in many forms. When used with a PAL-NTSC TV you'll be able to see the full 625 lines of resolution available in the PAL system and the full 525 lines used in the USA NTSC system. There exists a converting type of DVD player which is codefree in that it can read all of the world's 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. 140,000 other products are available here: http://www.planetomni.com Tel. # 800-514-2984

Top 3 Ways to Buy an LCD TV

This may come as a surprise to you. Just like other types of big screen TVs, LCD flat screen TVs have some disadvantages, as well. Yes, it's true. For example, LCD TVs have lower contrast ratios than plasmas, because they have a harder time reproducing deep black and dark grays. Their screen also tend to be thicker than plasma screens.

However, a LCD flat screen TV is not susceptible to burn-in and usually is less expensive than plasma televisions. LCD TVs also run cooler than plasma TVs, thereby minimizing the need for noisy fan cooling. Many LCD sets can double as a PC monitors, as well. In terms of longevity, LCD flat screen TVs can last up to 60,000 hours, whereas plasma TVs, on average, last 30,000 to 40,000 hours.

Ready To Buy a LCD Flat Screen TV?

So, you are all set to buy your first LCD flat screen TV? Cool! Here are some shopping tips before you set you mind on a particular model.

1. Check The Black-When you are shopping for your LCD flat screen TV, bring along a DVD movie that has dimly lit scenes. Use this to check for good black reproduction. Don't worry, the sales people won't think you are odd-maybe slightly obsessive, but not weird.

2. Remote Control-A good remote could be the difference between relaxation and frustration. Make sure that the remote control has backlighting so you can see you options in the dark. Also, make sure that the remote is comfortable. It is going to be in your hand a lot! 170-degree Viewing Angles-Try to find a LCD flat screen TV that has 170-degree viewing angles so that you may watch the image from anywhere in the room.

3. HD-Ready-HDTV stands for high-definition television. So, a HDTV is a television with a built-in digital tuner that shows high-definition broadcasts in true high-definition resolution. We recommend that you buy a LCD flat screen TV that is HD-ready, so that you may view HD programming- it's the wave of the future.

So, look around before you buy the perfect LCD flat screen TV for your home. You should understand that there are some disadvantages to each kind of television format, and nothing can reach perfection-yet. Well, except for maybe a jumbo 65-inch Sharp Aquos TV. LCD TVs can be simply awesome if you know what you are doing when you shop for them.

There is more than meets the eye when LCD TV shopping. These points only scratch the surface (if that!). Find out all the insider info on LCD TVs today.

Roger Wembley is author of ?The LCD TV Guide.? Get your copy at http://www.ilcdtv.com

Discount Camcorders

Some of the most important factors that buyers should consider when buying a camcorder are the features. A buyer should know what features they want and need, because it can affect the cost of the camcorder. A buyer's budget plays a significant role in the type of camcorder that is purchased. This is true, because there are a variety of choices when it comes to brands, models, features and format. This all makes choices difficult for a buyer, because anyone wants the most that money can buy.

For newer and more expensive models, especially those that can record in high definition video (HDV), finding the best deals can be equally challenging. Fortunately, this kind of technology is affordable, as there are a number of good sources for discounts.

Two of the best sources for good deals on camcorders are discount electronics stores and the Internet. Discount electronics stores get their products at wholesale prices and only charge a small markup. The intense competition on the Internet has also contributed to the very low prices that are offered online, especially at auction sites. If a buyer has the patience to look at a number of discounts stores and an even larger number of web sites that offer camcorders, there are some fabulous deals to be had.

However, buyers should be careful of unscrupulous dealers who might trick them into buying ?cheap? camcorders that, in the long run, are more expensive because all the accessories are not included in the price and have to be purchased separately at outrageous prices. To avoid becoming a victim, make sure that you buy from a reputable dealer. When buying online, check out the company by going to certain sites that offer reviews on companies that sell camcorders.

There are a number of sources that offer good deals on camcorders. Discount electronic shops and the Internet are two of these sources. However, buyers should not be enamored with some of the very cheap deals offered, as they may find themselves the victim of unscrupulous dealers. Given this, a good amount of research and vigilance can help people avoid such a scenario.

Camcorders provides detailed information on Camcorders, Digital Camcorders, Camcorder Batteries, DVD Camcorders and more. Camcorders is affiliated with DVD Digital Camcorders.

Plasma TV Screens ? Pros Cons and Advice

Plasma TVs are widely popular, due to the advantages they offer. In this article, we'll go over a few of the pros and cons of Plasma screens, as well as tips for buying a plasma TV.

The Pros of Plasma Screen TVs

Plasma screens are very shallow (slim line profile) ? usually the screen will take up about 2 inches, and the entire TV or finished screen will be just a few inches deep. This means that your TV takes up very little room, and is easily mounted on a wall.

Plasma screens also have an excellent contrast, and can display nearly perfectly dark black. Plasma screens can also display very bright colors. This makes them ideal for watching movies.

Plasma screens can also come in extra large sizes. The largest plasma screen in the world is 103 inches across. You can easily buy plasma screens up to about 65 inches.

The Cons of Plasma Screen TVs

Plasma screens begin losing their brightness after about 2,000 hours of use. The latest model plasma screens will be half as bright as they originally were after about 60,000 hours of use.

Plasma screens are very fragile, so they are hard to install and ship. Of course, they are also at an increased risk of breaking.

Above about 6,000 elevation, Plasma screens will emit a humming noise. Very few people will have an issue with this, though, as very few people live above 6,000 feet elevation.

Tips for buying a Plasma Screen TV

As with any other electronic, it's important to shop around and get the best product at the best price. Check online review and shopping comparison sites.

Also, be wary of advertised contrast ratios. Since there is no standardized measurement method, it is very difficult to compare contrast ratios between manufacturers.

Visit Plasma TV Guide UK for Sony Plasma TV Reviews and more.

HDTV: Buying Guide Part One

There?s never been a better time than now to buy a high-definition television (HDTV). Whether your primary source of television programming is local over-the-air broadcasts, cable or digital satellite TV, you will find that there is now a wealth of high-definition programs available. If you have a standard-definition television you will also enjoy all of your widescreen-format DVDs that much more on a HDTV. And with Toshiba now shipping their first-generation HD-DVD players and Blu-Ray players coming to North America next month, there are even more reasons why it makes sense to take the plunge and buy an HDTV.

Now that you?re convinced you need to go out and buy a brand new HDTV the question is what type of unit to buy. First, you should decide what size HDTV makes sense for you. Because HDTV?s have a wider aspect ratio (16:9) compared to a standard television (4:3) you will want to choose a larger diagonal screen size for your new HDTV than you might expect. CNET has a great guide you can check to find out the right size that meets your needs.

Now that you?ve chosen what size HDTV to get the next question is what type of technology you should look at. Older CRT analog televisions were all based on the same basic technology, but now you have a potentially confusing array of choices: LCD, plasma, DLP, LCoS, and D-ILA. LCD and plasma are both flat panel technologies that can be mounted on walls. If you?re looking for an HDTV less than 42 inches then LCD is probably your best choice. Plasma is a better choice for HDTVs over 42 inches, as current LCD units get very expensive in larger size formats.

I just pre-ordered the new Samsung HLS-5087W 50 inch rear projection DLP HDTV. Many believe that DLP technology offers the best price/performance in the 50 inch plus category of HDTV today. Sony has made a large investment in LCoS technology which it brands as SRXD, while JVC brands their LCoS line D-ILA. LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) is most similar to DLP (Digital Light Projection) technology, however many believe the DLP camp has made faster progress on reducing manufacturing costs to offer consumers a better price/performance ratio. While rear projection DLP HDTVs lack the flat panel appeal of LCD and plasma units, they are much lighter and have far less depth than the CRT televisions of the past.

You?ve chosen the right size and technology for your new HDTV, and now you?re trying to understand what is 720p versus 1080i versus 1080p. Let me help you out here ? don?t bother getting a 720p today. I?d recommend at least a 1080i, better yet a 1080p. My new Samsung is both 1080p input as well as output. In order to understand what all of these strange numbers mean, well, you?ve have to wait until my next article.

James Ambras is a consumer technology enthusiast of the highest degree, and his 'Tech Talk' series appears each month at http://blog.peerflix.com. Jim's day job is as the VP of Engineering for Peerflix, the leading online destination to trade DVDs. For more information, visit http://www.peerflix.com.

What Makes an HDTV High Definition?

You keep hearing about it ? new high definition DVDs, high definition camcorders, and high definition TVs. And you probably know that high definition means higher quality video, but beyond that it may all be just a bit fuzzy.

If you?re a TV and you want to be labeled as an HDTV, then you need to have one of three formats ? 720p, 1080i, or 1080p, with 1080p being the best of the three. The main difference in these formats is resolution. A 720p TV will have a resolution or 1280 pixels by 720 lines. A 1080i or 1080p will have a resolution of 1920 pixels by 1080 lines.

The other factor is the letter behind the number, p and i. They refer to the way the image is built up. The p stands for progressive and the i stands for interlaced. When using an interlaced scan, only half the lines (for a 1080i, that?s 540 lines) are displayed at a time. The lines are alternated so fast (1/30th of a second) that your eyes interpret the two images to be just one. In progressive, all of the lines are displayed at the same time, which provides a smoother looking picture. (Lines are displayed every 1/60th of a second).

Now in a perfect world, we?d all have 103? 1080p plasma displays in our living rooms, however, unfortunately we don?t live in a perfect world, so we have to figure out which HDTV, if any, best suits our needs.

The first question to be asking yourself is what am I going to use it for? Do you watch a lot of movies? Do you plan on getting HD channels from your cable or satellite provider? Are you willing to upgrade the rest of you A/V equipment? These are important questions because if you don?t plan on upgrading to a new DVD player (HD-DVD or Blu-ray), and you don?t want to spend the extra money on an HD box from your cable or satellite provider, then an HDTV probably isn?t for you. You can go buy a nice big screen TV and save yourself several thousand dollars in the process and still just as nice a picture from your standard television programming and standard DVDs as you would with a high definition display.

For those of you who do plan on upgrading the rest of your equipment, then an HDTV may be an investment you?ll want to consider.

Gary Ruplinger is a writer for PlasmaGeeks.com. Be sure to visit his site to learn more about Plasma TVs and HDTVs.

Eliminating that Terrible Hum From Your Home Theater Speakers

You've all heard it, that dreaded 60Hz hum through the speakers of a home theater or house audio system. Hopefully you heard it at a friend's house and not your own. It can drive you completely nuts. You may have even tried, unsuccessfully, to fix the little noise problem. That can make you even more crazy. What causes that horrendous noise through your speakers?

More often than not humming through your speakers is caused by a grounding problem. There are three main ground problems that cause problems in an audio / video system. These are ground loops, improper grounding and lack of a ground altogether. The other possible culprits that can cause noise are bad cables, a faulty piece of equipment or electrical noise from a lighting dimmer or electric motor. There are steps you can take to troubleshoot the noise and eliminate it from you theater.

The first step is find out where it is coming from. Disconnect your source and display equipment from your receiver or surround sound processor. If the noise stops, connect them back to the receiver or processor on at a time until the noise returns. When the hum comes back, you found where the noise is entering your system. Note that if you are connecting remote equipment, such as running the signal from your theater room DVD player to the TV in the bedroom, your chances to pick up noise increase dramatically. With such long runs, noise can be induced into the long cable runs from adjacent electrical wiring. It is also easy to create a ground loop, because the equipment is plugged into two different, widely separated outlets, on different electrical circuits.

If the noise is caused by a cable box, the noise is likely caused by the cable TV ground. To test this theory, disconnect the incoming cable TV feed to the rear of the cable box or TV while they are still connected to the rest of the system. If the noise is eliminated by disconnecting the TV cable, the problem is the cable TV ground. You can electrically decouple the cable TV feed from your system with a ground breaking transformer. These are available from many sources. Be advised that many newer, digital cable TV systems require any device in the signal chain to pass a full 1,000 Mhz. Some of the older ground break transformers will not do this. Be sure to check the specifications of whatever device you are purchasing to verify it will pass the digital cable TV signal.

If the noise is from your projector, TV, or monitor, it is most likely caused because the video display device is plugged into a different outlet than the other a/v equipment. It could be on a different circuit as well. These circuits may have two different ground potentials. That is, the resistance to ground is different on each circuit. A difference in resistance to ground from one ground point to another can cause the dreaded ground loop. If you get a ground loop, current flows between the two components. If the current flows through the components internal audio signal ground, you will get a hum.

You can use an isolation transformer, similar to the type used for cable TV ground problems, to eliminate the electrical connection from one component to the other. These transformers are inserted in line with the audio signal connection between the two components. If there is no audio connection between the components, the problem may be current flowing through the video portion. In this case, a video isolation transformer should be used to eliminate the ground loop.

Sometimes power conditioners will stop noise problems by placing equipment on different, electrically isolated outlets. This is done using isolation transformers. Sometimes this is ineffective however, due to the differences in internal construction of different power conditioning equipment. Some safety regulations, such as UL 1950, specify that an isolation transformer is only allowed to isolate the hot and neutral wires; the grounding wire must be passed straight through. If this is the case, the ground loop problem may still exist because many communication circuits are connected to the grounding conductor and not the neutral. In this case, the isolation transformer, or any power conditioner or UPS with an isolation transformer will have absolutely no affect on the grounding problem.

The noise may be generated externally, from a dimmer or refrigerator compressor for example, and coming in through the main power input on the audio video equipment. In this case, a high quality power conditioner may be effective in reducing or eliminating the noise problem. You may also find that one of the signal interconnecting cables in your system is faulty. This can also cause noise problems. Check for this by swapping the cables with one that you know to be good.

You can solve most noise problems in your home theater or multi room audio/video system by taking the systematic, step-by-step approach. Work your way up the signal chain, eliminating each piece of equipment as you go. If you have nothing connected to your speakers except the speaker wiring, and they still hum, the problem is noise induced into the speaker wiring from adjacent power cables. Other than that case, most problems are caused by ground problems, which you can find, and solve, if you take it one step at a time.

Steve has 15 yrs in the consumer electronics industry. He is a CEDIA certified designer with ISF and THX certificates. His experience includes: installer and programmer; system designer; business unit director for an a/v importer; sales rep for a CE distributor; and principal of a $1.5M+ CEDIA firm. He's now senior sales engineer for Digital Cinema Design in Redmond, WA. For more information on how to make your home theater better, and what's on the horizon, including CEDIA and CES show reports, see The Home Theater and Automation Guide