Friday, October 30, 2009

Import/Transfer Video From A Sony Dvd Camcorder To Imovie For Mac Osx

IMovie is the home video production tool that's part of Apple's iLife software package. Using iMovie, you can create end edit professional-looking videos using images, text and video that you obtain from either your hard drive or an external source such as a camera or an external drive. You can import video files from any Sony camcorder into your iMovie project.


Instructions


1. Plug the Firewire cable into the "Output" port on the camcorder. Plug the other end of the cable into an available Firewire port on your Mac. If your camera does not have a Firewire output, use the USB cable to connect it to your Mac.


2. Turn on the camera in Playback mode.


3. Start iMovie on the Mac.


4. Click the "File" menu and select "Import from camera." A window pops up, showing your camera in a list of available camera capture devices. Select your video camera from the list and click "OK."


5. Follow the onscreen instructions to import the video from the camera into your project.







Tags: cable into, from camera, import video, into your, your camera

Touch Up Motorcycle Paint

Most motorcycles are painted with high-quality paint right in the factory, unlike many cars and trucks. The paint has a deep, glossy look. Many owners have their motorcycles custom-painted to reflect their style and taste. They take great pains to keep the paint clean and scratch-free, but over time, scratches and gouges will appear on most motorcycles. The best repair strategy is to use touch-up paint, since it covers scratches and stops rust from appearing.


Instructions


1. Sand the scratch lightly with 300-grit sandpaper. Sand around the edges so that the scratch is no longer felt when you run your fingers over it. If the scratch is very small, use a sanding stick, which gets into the small space easily.


2. Wipe the sanded and surrounding area with wax and grease remover using a microfiber towel to remove dust particles or fingerprints.


3. Use a high-quality hobby paint brush to apply the paint. These brushes are normally very well made and apply the paint better than the plastic brush that comes with the touch-up paint.


4. Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing the paint to dry for 10 minutes between coats. Wait two hours after applying the final coat to apply three or four coats of clear-coat paint. Allow all of the paint to dry for at least a full day.


5. Use an orbital polisher and a small amount, about 4 to 5 oz., of liquid car polish on the motorcycle. Go over the entire part or the whole motorcycle to bring out a deep shine in the paint. This also shines the area around the scratch that had been sanded and became dull.







Tags: apply paint, touch-up paint

Check Transmission Fluid Levels In A Sportster 883

How do I Check Transmission Fluid Levels in a Sportster 883?


The Sportster 883 is a motorcycle made by Harley Davidson. The transmission fluid is part of the bike's oil system. You need to checking the fluid level periodically to ensure the engine runs smoothly. The job takes a good deal of time because it isn't readily accessible. You must open up the primary housing on the motor to get to it.


Instructions


1. Place the motorcycle in an upright position. If no stand is available, have another person hold the bike upright.


2. Remove the six bolts from the left side of the engine's primary housing with a socket or crescent wrench. Lift the cover off the motor and set it aside.


3. Look through the derby cover port, located under the primary housing you just pulled off. Take note of the transmission fluid level. It should be level with the bottom of the clutch assembly. Add transmission fluid if the level is below this. Also look for the condition of the fluid. It should be translucent red. If it is dark or has debris in it, change it immediately.


4. Replace the primary housing cover back over the motor. Re-attach the bolts and tighten them with the crescent wrench.

Tags: primary housing, fluid level, Check Transmission, Check Transmission Fluid, crescent wrench, Fluid Levels

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Play "Call Of Duty 4" On The Ati Radeon Hd 3200

You can optimize your Call of Duty gameplay by changing the graphics settings.


Infinity Ward released the first-person shooter "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare" (COD4) in November 2007 and it quickly became one of that year's bestselling video games. Game play included both story-driven missions and online multiplayer matches. Gamers can play COD4 on platforms such as Sony's PlayStation 3, Microsoft's Xbox 360, the Nintendo Wii and PCs. Users running COD4 on a PC equipped with the ATI Radeon HD 3200 video graphics card can optimize their gaming experience by changing the graphics settings. Changing these settings will help achieve a high frame-rate and faster processing during gameplay.


Instructions


Optimize Desktop Resolution


1. Exit any open windows or programs.


2. Open your desktop personalization settings by right-clicking anywhere on the desktop then highlighting and clicking "Personalize."


3. Open the Display Settings application window by clicking on "Display Settings" in the Personalization window.


4. Shift the slider to 800 by 600 pixel resolution by clicking on it, then sliding it to the left until it reads "800 x 600."


5. Click "Apply" to save your settings, then click "OK" to exit.


Optimize COD4 Gameplay Settings


6. Launch COD4 by double-clicking its icon on your desktop. Click "Multiplayer" in the gameplay options menu.


7. Open the "Graphics" settings menu by clicking "Options," then highlighting and clicking "Graphics."


8. Set "Video mode" to 800 by 600 by clicking on it, then highlighting and clicking "800 x 600."


9. Turn "Shadows," "Sync every frame," "Specular Map," "Depth of Field," "Glow," "Soften Smoke Edges," "Ragdoll" and "Bullet Impacts" to off by clicking on each, then highlighting and clicking "No."


10. Place "Model Detail," "Water Detail" and "Number of Dynamic Lights" to "Low" by clicking on each, then highlighting and clicking "Low."







Tags: highlighting clicking, then highlighting, then highlighting clicking, Call Duty, changing graphics, changing graphics settings, clicking each

Mix Pictures & Video Effectively

If you would like to make a standout multimedia project for work, school or another venue, you can do so by including a combination of pictures and video. Though pictures and videos are generally edited in separate applications, many video-editing applications accept still image files as well. If you want to mix pictures and video effectively, you can do so in a video-editing application that can work with picture files. Both Windows' native video-editing application, Movie Maker, and Mac's native video-editing application, iMovie, support still pictures.


Instructions


Movie Maker for Windows


1. Open Windows Movie Maker by going to "Start" and "All Programs," then clicking "Windows Movie Maker," which appears near the top of the program list. Click the "Import Media" button to look for the files you want to incorporate in you project. To import a file, double-click it in the "Import Media" window.


2. Drag the video clips and pictures to the time line in the order in which you would like them to display. You can place the video and pictures in any order on the "Video Track."


3. Use transitions between the video and still images on the timeline to make the switch from moving image to still image smoother. To view available transitions, click the "Tasks" button at the top of the Movie Maker screen, expand the "Edit movie" section and click the "View video transitions" link. Add the transition between a picture and video clip by dragging the transition you want from the "Video Transitions" pane to the box that appears between the clips on the timeline.


4. Close the "Video Transitions" box and press "Play" in the preview screen to play the entire project all the way through. Once you have mixed the pictures and video smoothly and effectively, go to "File" and "Publish" to save the project as a video file.


iMovie for Mac


5. Launch iMovie from the dock at the bottom of the Mac screen. Press the "Import" button and go to a folder that contains a picture or video file that you want to add. Double-click the file to add it to the project.


6. Move the pictures and the video to the time line. Arrange the clips and images so they are in the order in which you would like them to appear on the screen.


7. Add transitions to the project. To add transitions, click the "Edit" button and "Transitions" to display the transition list. Drag any transition to the time line, hover your cursor between the two clips where you want the transition to play and then drop it to add it to the project.


8. Preview the project in the preview window to make sure you are happy with the result. Go to "Share" and choose one of the export options to save the project as a video file.







Tags: Movie Maker, time line, video file, video-editing application, would like

Install Mirrors On A 2002 Harley Davidson Sportster

Customizing a Harley-Davidson Sportster is a right of passage for most Harley owners. Adding accessories such as billet chrome engine covers, after-market exhaust pipes and even a custom paint job is something you will likely see on most Sportsters. Installing new mirrors on your 2002 Sportster helps to tie all of your accessories together. Fortunately, changing the mirrors is one of the easiest tasks you will complete on your motorcycle.


Instructions


1. Locate the stem of the existing mirror that connects the mirror lens to the handlebar. If changing the right side mirror, look under the brake handle housing for the bolt that secures the stem of the mirror to the housing. If replacing the left side mirror, look under the clutch handle housing for the nut that secures the stem of the mirror to the housing.


2. Remove the nut with a ratchet and socket. Turn the nut counterclockwise.


3. Pull the threaded portion of the mirror's stem out of the clutch or brake handle housing.


4. Slide the threaded portion of the new mirror's stem through the hole in the brake or clutch handle housing until the threads extend through the housing.


5. Thread the bolts onto the threaded portion of the mirror's stem and give the nut a quarter-turn with the socket and ratchet.


6. Sit on the bike and adjust the mirror by hand until you can clearly see behind you.


7. Tighten the mirror with the socket and ratchet until the mirror is securely attached.







Tags: handle housing, mirror stem, portion mirror, portion mirror stem, threaded portion, threaded portion mirror, brake handle

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Fix Ntldr Is Missing

NTLDR is Missing


When NTLDR is missing from your operating system it means that there is a problem with your boot loader, a bootstrap process that begins when you turn on the computer. A missing NTLDR means that your computer cannot boot to the operating system. This issue is only a problem on computers running Windows XP or previous operating systems as Windows 7 and Vista don't utilize NTLDR. Fixing the missing NTLDR is relatively easy so long as you have your installation disc.


Instructions


1. Locate your Windows XP/2000 installation disc and place it in your CD/DVD ROM drive. If you don't have this disk, then you cannot proceed further.


2. Restart your computer.


3. When the computer restarts press any key on your keyboard when you are prompted, "Press any key to enter setup." Most computers are configured to boot to another device other than a hard drive. Since the Windows XP/2000 installation disk is bootable, you should see the prompt. However, if you don't see the prompt you may need to change your boot priority in your BIOS. To do so, enter the system BIOS by following the onscreen instructions upon startup. Then navigate to the Boot Priority menu and modify another device, such as a CD-ROM to boot prior to the hard drive. Then reboot your computer.


4. After you have pressed any key, the Windows XP/2000 setup screen will appear. After loading, press the "R" key to repair the Windows installation. The screen will appear black. The computer requests which installation you would like to log in. Generally speaking, press "1" and "Enter." If you have more than one hard drive or more than one partition, the procedure may be different. You must know which hard drive or partition your Windows operating system is installed in. You are subsequently prompted for a password. If you haven't set up one up, you can just leave the query blank and press "Enter." The phrase "c:\WINDOWS>" and a blinking cursor subsequently appear.


5. Type "copy d:\i386\ntldr c:\windows" (without quotes), where "D" is the letter of your CD/DVD ROM drive (your optical drive may be different, especially if you have more than one). Eject the CD from the drive and type "Exit" (without quotes) to restart your computer. The NTLDR file will be copied from the installation disc to your hard drive.







Tags: hard drive, your computer, installation disc, more than, operating system

Make Mac External Hd Bootable

Make Mac External HD Bootable


Mac's OSX operating system runs off a hard drive (HD) usually contained in your computer. You can make an external Mac HD "bootable," or able to start your computer and load the operating system, provided OSX has already been installed on it. The procedure is straightforward and does not require any special training or expertise.


Instructions


1. Attach the cord from the external Mac HD to a compatible port on the computer--for example, a USB or Firewire port. Wait for an icon for the external Mac HD to appear on your desktop.


2. Insert the OS X installation disc into the disc drive slot of your Mac. Double click on the icon of the disc when it appears on the desktop. Double click on the installation program icon in the pop-up window.


3. Select the icon of the external Mac HD in the list of choices in the window for installing the Mac OS X operating system on. Click the "Start" button to begin the installation.


4. Follow the menu commands to install the Mac OS X operating system on the external Mac HD. Drag the icon of the OS X installation disc to the Trash when the installation is complete. Remove the disc from the drive.


5. Go to "File" and select "System Preferences" from the drop-down menu at the top of the screen. Click "Startup Disk."


6. Click the padlock icon in the lower left corner of the window that appears. Enter your administration password into the "Password" column. Click "OK."


7. Select the icon for the external HD from the list of choices presented at the top of the window. Click "Restart."







Tags: operating system, icon external, Double click, External Bootable, installation disc

Change The Primary Oil In A 1989 Harley Davidson Electric Glide Classic

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide models utilize a wet clutch system contained within the primary chaincase.


Harley-Davidson Electra Glide models utilize a wet clutch system contained within the primary chaincase. This chaincase contains the clutch, compensating sprocket and approximately 32 oz. of primary fluid. Access to the internal workings of the chaincase may be accomplished through the clutch inspection cover. The length of time to complete this task will vary upon skill level, but should take no longer than 30 minutes.


Instructions


1. Place a suitable drain pan under the Electra Glide primary. Remove the magnetic drain plug at the bottom of the primary chaincase cover with a T40 Torx drive. Allow all of the used primary fluid to drain. Clean the drain plug with a shop rag. Re-install the plug into its hole.


2. Remove the five Allen-head screws securing the clutch inspection cover with an Allen wrench. Drop the cover and its gasket. Use caution to avoid scratching the outside of the cover.


3. Stand the motorcycle upright. Add HD Primary Chaincase Lubricant through the clutch inspection cover to the level of the diaphragm spring. Clean all lubricant from around the outside of the primary cover in the area of the clutch. Reinstall the clutch inspection cover with a new gasket. Tighten the Allen screws in a crosswise pattern to help the cover to seat properly. Dispose of the used fluid properly.

Tags: clutch inspection, clutch inspection cover, inspection cover, cover with, Electra Glide, clutch system, clutch system contained

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Video File Types For The Ipad

The iPad can only record HD video from its rear-facing camera.


The Apple iPad is designed as an Inetrnet-equipped multimedia platform, and is able to store, download and playback various digital audio and video file types. Apple's native video format requirements are quite strict, requiring any videos downloaded from iTunes to be of a specific file type. Other options are available when uploading your own video library, with the support of third-party applications.


MPEG-4


Apple favors the MPEG-4 video standard for use with the iPad, which encompasses wide-ranging methods of compressing audio and video. Standard definition (SD) videos, TV shows and films downloaded from the online iTunes Store are stored in the MPEG-4 format, and use the ".mp4" file extension. For iPad compatibility, SD MPEG-4 videos have a required resolution of 640 by 480 pixels at 30-frames-per-second, with 48KHz audio up to 160 Kbps per channel. SD videos recorded by the iPad are stored using this format.


H.264


Thanks to its high-definition (HD) display the iPad can playback HD videos, which are also stored using MPEG-4 compression. Although the file extension is typically the same as SD videos, there is a significant difference between the SD and HD standards, as iPad-compatible HD videos must be encoded using the advanced H.264 codec. This allows videos to be encoded in 720P resolution at 30-frames-per-second, with 48KHz audio up to 160Kbps per channel. High-definition videos recorded by the iPad's rear-facing camera are stored using this format.


Streaming Service


The iPad is not compatible with online streaming services, such as YouTube and Vimeo, due to the video encoding used. This issue is resolved by the use of third-party applications, and the iPad's native YouTube application. Videos downloaded through a streaming service's official application are sent using an alternative format --- typically a combination of the MPEG-4 standards --- which the iPad is able to display. This allows the iPad to playback multimedia content from a host of online video-sharing sources without compatibility issues.


Third Party Applications


Although the iPad is only compatible with the MPEG-4 standards natively, a variety of multimedia playback applications are available that can decode and display a wide range of standard digital video file types. Apps such as BUZZ Player HD, OPlayer HD and AVPlayerHD allow you to store and playback popular video formats including AVI, WMV, MPG, XVID, DIVX, MKV and FLV. They support both SD and HD videos, and feature considerably less restrictive audio and resolution requirements than those demanded by Apple's specifications.







Tags: stored using, 30-frames-per-second with, 30-frames-per-second with 48KHz, 48KHz audio, audio video, compatible with

Change Dyna Super Glide Oil On A 2005 Harley Davidson

For the best results, change your oil every 2,500 miles.


Harley-Davidson recommends you change your V-Twin motorcycle's oil every 2,500 miles to ensure the longevity and performance of your' bike's engine. Performed regularly, these oil changes can extend the life of your 2005 Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide dramatically, reducing wear caused by degraded oil. Changing the oil yourself is a simple task that normally takes less than an hour to accomplish using standard mechanics' hand tools. Take your time if you've never changed your motorcycle's oil before, you will get quicker as you become familiar with the process.


Instructions


1. Start the motorcycle, letting it idle for at least three minutes to warm its oil supply. Stop the motor and lift the motorcycle into an upright position with a motorcycle stand.


2. Unscrew the oil filler cap from the oil tank. Remove the oil drain plug from the bottom left side of the motor's crankcase with a 5/8-inch socket. Place an oil pan beneath the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely. Remove and replace the drain plug's O-ring with a new O-ring. Wipe the tip of the drain plug clean with a shop towel and reinsert it into the motor, using a 5/8-inch socket to tighten the plug.


3. Remove the oil filter from the front of the motor with a strap wrench. Fill a new oil filter with fresh 20W50 motor oil and spread a thin coat of oil on the filter's inner gasket. Screw the oil filter onto the motor by hand until it is seated snugly against the crankcase. Tighten the oil filter an additional quarter-turn to secure it in place.


4. Pour up to 2.5 quarts of fresh 20W50 motor oil into the tank and wipe away any spilled oil with a shop towel. Reinstall the oil filler cap onto the oil tank's filler neck.

Tags: drain plug, 20W50 motor, 8-inch socket, change your, Dyna Super, Dyna Super Glide

Reset The Security System On A Silverado

Resetting your Silverado may only require the use of the ignition key.


A Chevy Silverado that has had its Passlock security system enabled will shut down the fuel injectors on the vehicle and will not allow the vehicle to start. Resetting the system may be as simple as using the vehicle key. If the system disables the vehicle consistently or if the simple solution does not fix the Silverado, a separate bypass system may be installed in the vehicle to avoid the security system from engaging in the future.


Instructions


1. Turn the key to the "On" position in the Silverado without turning over. Let the vehicle sit for 10 minutes, leaving the key in the "On" position. Some Passlock systems will relearn the codes after this amount of time.


2. Try to start the vehicle. If it starts, you have solved the issue. If it does not, you will need to either take the vehicle in or install a bypass module to circumvent the security system altogether.


3. Install the bypass module. Bypass modules are commonly used for installing remote starters on vehicles. The Silverado uses Passlock 2 bypass modules. There are two separate Passlock 2 systems used. To determine which kind you have remove the lower dash using a screwdriver. In the harness going to the steering column, you are looking for 3 thin wires which are white, yellow, and orange/black. Cut the yellow wire (positive) and strip back some of the orange/black wire (ground). Connect the potentiometer with the vehicle in either drive or reverse. Hold the key in the start position and read the measurement. Crank the starter. If the reading changes you will use a separate method of connecting the bypass module.


4. Follow the steps in the bypass module kit to complete installation once you have determined which method is required. (See Resources.) Make sure you are using same sized resistors.







Tags: bypass module, orange black, Passlock systems, security system

Monday, October 26, 2009

Problems With The Ati Mobility Radeon X600

Solve problems with your computer's graphics card.


The ATI Mobility Radeon X600 is a graphics card common in Hewlett Packard (HP) Pavilion computers on Windows operating systems. Because graphics cards are responsible for the image display on your computer screen, the majority of the problems relating to the ATI Mobility Radeon X600 have to do with computer screen display function.


Black Display Screen


There are two instances reported by users of the ATI Mobility Radeon X600 that result in a black display screen. First, the graphics card sometimes defaults to a black screen after new device drivers for the card are installed instead of working with them successfully. Second, the display screen sometimes turns black after the operating system boots up but before the desktop has a chance to load.


Scrambled Display


The ATI Mobility Radeon X600 graphics card sometimes scrambles or alters the display screen if the screen resolution is adjusted by the user while it is running. The only way to restore the screen is to restart the computer and disable the graphics card.


Compatible Drivers


Users have also reported problems that occur when trying to install some drivers that list the ATI Mobility Radeon X600 as compatible. The Catalyst driver is an example of this issue. Despite the claim of compatibility, the driver and the graphics card will not work together, and instead, an error message displays.







Tags: graphics card, Mobility Radeon, Mobility Radeon X600, Radeon X600, display screen, card sometimes

Bolt On Saddlebags For A Motorcycle

Installing universal saddlebags may require some modifications.


Motorcycle saddlebags are available in a staggering assortment or shapes, sizes and mounting possibilities. Installing a set of saddlebags designed primarily for your motorcycle should be as simple as installing a mounting bracket and replacing a few bolts to suit. However, universal saddlebags may be harder to install, since the saddlebags and their mounting hardware are made to fit most motorcycles with a small amount of modification. Care must be taken when mounting these universal saddlebags to prevent damaging or interfering with the motorcycle's wheels, chain or suspension. Allow at least one hour to finish this project.


Instructions


Throw-over Saddlebags


1. Remove or open the motorcycle's seat, either unlocking the seat release mechanism with the ignition key or removing the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench.


2. Lay the saddlebags over the motorcycle's frame and rear fender, centering the bag's connecting strap between the frame's rails. Adjust the position of the saddlebags by moving them forward or backward along the frame. Check to ensure that the saddlebags will not prevent the rear suspension from moving freely or rub against the rear wheel and chain. Reposition the saddlebags as needed.


3. Secure the saddlebags to the frame using the quick-release straps provided with the saddlebags. Wrap the strap over the motorcycle's frame rails and pull the bottom of the strap through the loop at the top of the strap. Clip the straps' connectors onto the saddlebag Tighten the straps with their sliding adjuster clips until the saddlebags are fastened securely to the frame.


4. Reinstall or lower the seat onto the motorcycle. Tighten the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench or lock the seat release mechanism with the ignition key.


Hard-Mount Saddlebags


5. Remove or open the motorcycle's seat, either unlocking the seat release mechanism with the ignition key or removing the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench.


6. Remove the bolts from the right side of the rear fender support with a socket wrench. Place the saddlebag mounting brackets over the fender support and insert the fender's mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts with a socket wrench.


7. Place the right saddlebag against the mounting brackets. Adjust the position of the saddlebag on the brackets until there is at least 1inch of clearance above the mufflers. Check that the saddlebag does not interfere with the motorcycle's suspension and rear wheel. Mark the position of the brackets' mounting holes on the back of the saddlebag with a permanent pen. Pull the saddlebag away from the brackets.


8. Lay the saddlebag on a towel, facing the back of the saddlebag upwards. Drill holes into the back of the saddlebag with an electric drill at the marked areas.


9. Mount the right saddlebag onto the mounting brackets using the bolts included with the saddlebags. Insert the bolts from the back of the brackets and into the saddlebag. Screw a nut onto the mounting bolts from inside the saddlebag and tighten them with a socket wrench.


10. Mount the left saddlebag and brackets following the same procedure. Reinstall or lower the seat onto the motorcycle. Tighten the seat's mounting bolts with a socket wrench or lock the seat release mechanism with the ignition key.







Tags: socket wrench, with socket, with socket wrench, mounting bolts, bolts with, bolts with socket, mechanism with

Friday, October 23, 2009

Replace Bulbs With Led On A Motorcycle

Visibility problems are a leading cause of motorcycle accidents, so anything that makes a bike easier to see will improve safety. LED brake lights are substantially brighter than traditional incandescent bulbs, and installing them will make the motorcycle more visible on the road. Installing them should take about 20 minutes.


Instructions


1. Unscrew the taillight lens from the fender using the Phillips head screwdriver. This will reveal the bulb and the housing.


2. Pull the bezel out of the fender, leaving the bulb connected. You want the bulb to hang from the wiring so you can test the wiring.


3. Probe the wires using the 12-volt test light. You want to know which wire goes to the brakes, which to the running lights and which to the turn signal so you can wire them correctly. To do this, hit the brake handle, then see if the test light glows. If it does, then that's the brake light wire. Repeat for each wire.


4. Cut each wire and strip the ends using the wire cutters and wire strippers. Crimp one end of the wire to a blue butt connector using the wire crimpers.


5. Connect each wire using the blue butt connectors, making sure that each lead from the new LED housing is connected with the proper connection from the motorcycle.


6. Mount the LED housing into the fender and screw the lens in place using the provided screws and the Phillips head screwdriver.


7. Test the lights to make sure they work.







Tags: each wire, blue butt, head screwdriver, Phillips head, Phillips head screwdriver

Maximize The Picture Quality On An Hdtv

High-definition televisions are meant to provide vivid images.


High-definition televisions (HDTVs) are meant to provide you with high-quality pictures when viewing HD programing. But you may not be completely satisfied with your new HDTV, and not getting the sharp or vivid images you were expecting. Fortunately, HDTVs come with ways for you to maximize the picture quality.


Instructions


1. Hook the television up to a cable or satellite receiver with an HDMI cable, since they provide the best picture quality for HDTV's. There should be a slot on the back or side of your television labeled "HDMI." There should also be a slot on the receiver labeled "HDMI." Hook the HDMI cable into those two slots.


2. Press the "Menu" button on your television's remote control and look for the video settings. Look for the video input settings. They should read 420, 720 and 1080. They also might have a letter next to them (for example, 480i or 1080i). The highest input setting a HDTV can go is 1080P, though some HDTVs only go up to 1080i. Adjust the input setting of the HDTV so it is at the highest setting it can go (720 is the minimum HD setting).


3. Adjust the picture settings on your television. Many HDTVs have a "Picture" button on the remote that automatically adjusts the picture quality on the television. Most have modes, such as "Standard," which has all the picture settings at their default. There is also usually a "Movie" setting, in which the picture settings are adjusted for better movie viewing. There is also probably a "Vivid" setting, in which all the colors on the screen are brightened.


4. Customize your TV's picture settings. Access the "Video" option from the main menu and adjust color, brightness and the other settings until the picture quality is satisfactory. Options, such as contrast, are best kept at around the default settings -- adjusting them too much can severely hamper picture quality.







Tags: picture quality, picture settings, your television, HDMI cable, High-definition televisions

How Does The Kelley Blue Book Work

How Does the Kelley Blue Book Work?


Website Features


The Kelley Blue Book website is an informational warehouse for anyone looking to purchase a used car or new car, and for those who want to know the value of their cars. The site gives the values for trade-in, retail and private sales. By entering the car's make, model, year, mileage, condition and zip code for where the car is located, you can find out the value of the vehicle. This is convenient for consumers because they have an idea of what the bank will be willing to lend, they know the value of the vehicle before shopping and they know the value of their own vehicle if traded in.


The Kelley Blue Book also has reviews of popular cars and car-buying advice. It has links to classifieds and Carfax vehicle history reports, which give you the complete history of a car by entering the VIN number.


Use the Kelley Blue Book


If you are looking for information on a new car, simply search by category or make. Enter your zip code and select the model. The information will include an overview, pricing, photos, reviews and even where you can purchase the vehicle.


If you are hunting for a used car, select the year, make and model. Decide on whether you want a trade-in price, private sale price or retail price. Check off the list of equipment information, size of the engine, whether it's a standard or automatic and the mileage. The prices will appear for excellent, good and fair condition vehicles. If you are not sure what make you want to purchase, you can choose up to four cars and compare them.


The Kelley Blue Book also has its own reviews and JD Power ratings, making deciding easier.







Tags: Blue Book, Kelley Blue, Kelley Blue Book, know value, also reviews, Blue Book also, Blue Book Work

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Identify A Vin Code

A VIN code is a vehicle identification number that is unique to each particular car, truck, van, RV, trailer, boat, motorcycle or other motorized vehicle. Law enforcement agencies and insurance companies use VIN codes to verify which vehicles were involved in crashes. Repair shops use VIN codes to keep individual, international, computerized vehicle-repair records. Dealers must identify vehicles they sell with VIN codes. Shipping companies must enter VIN codes on their shipping manifest lists whenever they ship vehicles.


Instructions


1. Locate the VIN code on the vehicle. Look on the dashboard or on the end of the open driver's side door. Kawasaki explains you can find the VIN code on the steering head of motorcycles, on the lower frame tube of ATVs, and on the frame in front of the seat of MULE utility vehicles.


2. Look for a number that is stamped onto a flat piece of metal which is fastened to the vehicle with screws.


3. Count the digits in the number you find. Vehicles built after 1981 must have VIN codes of 17 digits. Vehicles built before 1981 can have VIN codes varying from 4 to 14 digits.







Tags: code vehicle, have codes, number that, Vehicles built

Tourist Attractions Of The Central Plains In Texas

There are opportunities to fish in Texas


The Central Plains of Texas are elevated, flat areas, bordered by Oklahoma and the Red River to the north and the Llano Estacado to the west. Unsurprisingly, the main draw of the area is the outdoor attractions and activities, as the region is largely rural. To see as much as possible you will need a car, as distances between towns, national parks and regions can be lengthy. If you're flying, the nearest airport is the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.


Scenery


The land around the Central Plains area is used for farming or ranches, most of which is pasture or oak forest, therefore expect to see plenty of cows grazing and, to a lesser extent, sheep and goats. The majority of the rivers and lakes you will come across are artificial, and were created to cope with the periods of drought that often occur in the summer. Wildlife such as wild turkeys, deer and quail inhabit the forests, which are hunting grounds.


Towns


The towns of Graham, Vernon and Quanah are of great historical interest, particularly for those who are studying or have an interest in the American Civil War. Graham has the largest historical square of any city in the U.S., as well as numerous antique shops. Vernon has a museum dedicated to Jack Teagarden, a famous jazz musician who was born there. Quanah is named after the last chief of the Comanches, Quanah Parker. The town has various monuments and museums dedicated to Texas Rangers; the Hardeman County Museum is a former jail where the original cells can be visited.


National Parks


Between Fredericksburg and Johnson City, you will find the Lyndon B. Johnson State Historical Park, which contains 717.9 acres of flora and fauna. Visitors to this park will be able to see buffaloes, white-tailed deer and bison. The park is historically significant as it has seen Native American, Spanish and German populations come and go. The Lake Meredith National Recreation Area has a large artificial reservoir that is used for fishing, boating and swimming. The park itself has a camping area and is a popular spot for hunting.


Cowboy Holidays


While traveling through Texas, you might come across one of the various ranches that offer accommodation and the opportunity to be a cowboy or cowgirl for a few days. As well as fishing, hunting and barbecues, there are rodeo competitions, horse riding, hearty chuckwagon breakfasts and trail rides.







Tags: Central Plains, Central Plains Texas, come across, Plains Texas

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Vrod Gas Tank Work

Location


Launched in 2002, Harley-Davidson's VRSC or "V-Rod" family of motorcycles differs from the other four bike families (Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Touring) in several ways. This is especially true for the V-Rod gas tank. Traditionally, the gas tank was the large, teardrop-shaped container between the seat and the dashboard. In a V-Rod, however, this space is occupied by a hollow fiberglass dome. The actual gas tank is a C-shaped plastic container hidden underneath the seat, inside the chassis.


Refuel


To fill the V-Rod tank with gasoline, the rider must first turn off the engine and undo a latch located behind the seat. The seat then flips forward onto the dome, exposing the gas cap. After twisting off the gas cap and refilling the tank, the rider replaces the cap, flips the seat back and secures the latch.


Getting Gas to the Engine


The gas tank and the engine are connected in a loop consisting of the fuel intake line (which pumps fuel from the tank to the engine) and the return line (which lets unused fuel from the engine flow back into the tank). This feedback system allows the fuel pump to achieve constant pressure with expending extra energy as the fuel level in the tank decreases.


A small tube called the "fuel pump inlet" extends through the wall of the tank and opens at the bottom. The other end of the tube connects to a pump that vacuums a steady stream of gasoline from the tank. This vacuum then pushes the fuel through a filter to help remove impurities. Next, the filtered fuel flows through a valve into the fuel rail - tube with several openings leading to the engine's cylinders. The electronic fuel injectors then suck gas from the fuel rail supply and spray it into the cylinders for combustion. Even as the injectors draw gasoline away, the fuel pump ensures that fresh fuel is constantly replacing it.







Tags: fuel pump, from tank, fuel from, fuel rail, line which

Format A Sandisk 8 Gb Sdhc

Reformat your memory card to restore it to its original state.


Secure digital high-capacity memory cards allow for a higher capacity of storage; many cameras and video cameras use SDHC cards to store movies and pictures. Generally, when you first buy a SanDisk 8GB SDHC, you must format it in the device or on your computer before you begin storing files; you will also need to reformat the card after an extended period of use. The process is the same for both purposes.


Instructions


Format the card on Mac OS X


1. Insert your SanDisk 8GB memory card into a card reader connected to your computer.


2. Double-click "Macintosh HD" on your desktop.


3. Click on the "Applications" folder, then the "Utilities" folder.


4. Double-click "Disk Utility". Look on the left side to locate the drive that says "SanDisk."


5. Select the capacity of the drive on the left side of the window. The capacity will state "8GB" or "8,388,608 kilobytes." Click on the "Erase" tab to format the memory card. When you see "SanDisk" listed as the device's name, the capacity will be located above. You need to select the capacity and not the device.


6. Select the appropriate "Volume Format." Under the "Volume Format" button, select the format you wish to use. Select "Mac OS Extended" if the SanDisk 8GB will only be used on Macs, or "MS-DOS (FAT)" if you will share the card between a Mac and PC. Select "Erase" to complete the format of your SanDisk 8GB memory card.


Format the card on a PC


7. Insert the SanDisk SDHC 8GB memory card into a card reader connected to your computer.


8. Open "My Computer" or "Computer" from the "Start" menu. If the "AutoRun" box appears on your screen, close out of this box.


9. Locate the drive associated with the memory card. The drive will have a letter such as "F:" or "G:", with "SanDisk" or "Removable Drive" located next to the drive letter. Right-click on the drive and then select "Format."


10. Select a "File System" type. You will need to select "FAT32" for a SanDisk SDHC 8GB memory card.


11. Click on "Start" to format the SDHC memory card. Remove the SanDisk SDHC memory card from the card reader when the process completes.







Tags: memory card, SDHC memory, SDHC memory card, card reader, SanDisk SDHC, SanDisk SDHC memory, your computer

Install A Sundowner Deep Bucket Seat

A Sundowner Deep Bucket Seat will make your Harley-Davidson easier to ride.


The seat of your motorcycle is one of the most important parts of the bike in determining what your ride is going to be like. As Motorcycle Seat Reviews says, "One of the most annoying aspects of a poorly designed seat is that you can never find a place to settle in for the ride. Accelerate quickly and you're thrown back, off the controls. Brake and you have to fight the opposite law of physics. It's tedious, to say the least." If you are a Harley-Davidson owner, an easy-to-install Sundowner Deep Bucket Seat takes these problems away.


Instructions


1. Attach the Sundowner grab strap to the deep bucket seat. Put the front hole of the strap on the frontal hook of the seat. Put the two rear holes around the hooks at the base of the seat.


2. Remove the motorcycle's existing seat following the instructions in the owner's manual. Pull out the thumbscrew connecting the rear of the seat to the motorcycle body. This is located on the rear fender. Then pull out the front tabs located just under the gas tank and remove the seat.


3. Slide the Sundowner Deep Bucket Seat into the seat position.


4. Push in the front tabs. Push in the rear thumbscrew until it is tightly fastened.


5. Check that the seat is on securely by pulling it upward from the frontal position. It should not move independently of the motorcycle body. If it jiggles check that the tabs and rear screw are securely fastened.







Tags: Deep Bucket Seat, Sundowner Deep, Sundowner Deep Bucket, Bucket Seat, Deep Bucket

Check Harley Vin Numbers

Check a Harley VIN by looking it up in a database.


Every Harley-Davidson motorcycle carries a unique vehicle identification number (VIN), which insurance companies and the Department of Motor Vehicles use to keep track of the motorcycles. A VIN is also used to track maintenance schedules, warranty claims, recalls and theft. For motorcycles built between the 1930s and 1969, the engine number serves as the VIN. For motorcycles built between 1970 and 1980, the numbers are located on the frame and the engine. Only the number on the frame is considered the legal VIN after 1969; there might be a different VIN on the engine if the engine was replaced. A VIN on a Harley made until 1980 can be of varying length. From 1981 onward, Harleys have 17-digit VIN numbers.


Instructions


1. Locate the VIN on the Harley and write it down on a piece of paper.


2. Go to the Motoverse: Harley-Davidson VIN Decoder website (see Resources) if your Harley was built in 1981 or later. Type the 17-digit Harley VIN in the "Enter your Harley VIN number" box.


3. Click on "Go." The Motoverse VIN decoding service will generate a report that describes information carried by the motorcycle VIN, including model, engine type and the year it was manufactured.


4. Go to the Harley-Davidson Service Checkup website (see Resources). Type in your Harley's 17-digit VIN and its approximate mileage, and then click on "Get Checkup" to see maintenance plans for your motorcycle.


5. Call Harley Davidson at 414-343-4056 if your motorcycle was built before 1981. Provide your VIN to the customer service representative so he can look up information about your motorcycle.

Tags: your Harley, your motorcycle, built between, Check Harley, motorcycles built, motorcycles built between, website Resources

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Fix The Volume On A Sharp Television

Fix the Volume on a Sharp Television


Sharp televisions come in a variety of models with different features to meet the needs of consumers. Though all Sharp television models have different features, some problems that arise, such as issues with the television's volume, are common among all models. Most sound problems do not require the need of a service technician. Troubleshoot and fix the problems yourself to save the time and expense of having the television serviced.


Instructions


1. Press the "Vol +" button several times or the "Mute" button on the remote control to raise the volume. In many cases, the volume was turned down or the "Mute" button was pressed. The "Mute" feature automatically shuts off after 30 minutes, but the volume is not returned to the previous setting. You need to manually raise the volume in this case.


2. Change the "Output Select" audio option to "Fixed" if you are not using external speakers. When set to "Variable," the television speakers are muted. To change the "Output Select" setting, press the "Menu" button and use the right or left arrow buttons to highlight "Options." Highlight "Output Select" and press the "Enter" button. Use the right arrow button to switch to "Fixed" and press "Enter" again. Exit the main menu by pressing the "Menu" button.


3. Check the external speaker wire connections if you are using external speakers for audio. Ensure the speaker wires are securely plugged into the "Audio Output" or "Digital Audio Output" jacks on the back of the television. In addition, make sure the opposite ends of the wires are securely plugged into the speaker jacks or surround sound receiver. Refer to the documentation supplied with your speakers or surround sound system for information on connecting the speakers to the television.


4. Secure the external video device cables to the "Audio Input" jacks on the back of the television if you do not have sound when watching a DVD disc or VCR tape or when a computer or digital video camera is connected to your television. In addition, secure the wires to the "Audio Output" jacks on the device you are connecting to your television.







Tags: Audio Output, Output Select, Audio Output jacks, back television, button right, different features, external speakers

Connect Cctv Cameras To The Internet

If you've ever been on the road and wanted to see what was going on at home but didn't have a way, now you do. All you have to do is to connect a few CCTV cameras to the Internet and you can monitor as many rooms in your home or office from any computer that's online, anywhere in the world.


Instructions


1. Buy a few closed-circuit television cameras that can be connected to your computer. Some older CCTV cameras will allow you to connect only to a VCR for recording. However, most of the newer ones will allow you to use a digital video recorder, or a computer hard drive. Just make sure to purchase a camera set that can connect directly to your computer. This is usually done through a USB cable.


2. Sign up to HomeCamera.com. Do this once you have the cameras installed and configured with your laptop. This service is free as of 2009 while it is in beta testing, but the company plans to charge $29.95 a year starting in 2010. Download the software and follow the instructions for installation.


3. Configure HomeCamera.com software. This is a simple process. You log into the software and assign a name, such as "living room," "entrance," or "study," to each camera that you wish to monitor. You will then be able to sign into any Web-enabled device such as a personal digital assistant, cell phone or computer and see exactly what the cameras are seeing, via the HomeCamera.com website.


4. Share the camera feeds with friends or family if you wish. If you'd like you can also set up the cameras as motion detectors, and you will receive an email or text message along with a photo every time someone walks by the cameras. In addition, the website can be used as a recording device and can take pictures every few minutes and upload them to the HomeCamera.com servers.


5. Get creative. CCTV cameras connected to the Internet can be used for a lot more than just home security. For example you can use them to watch wildlife, for distance learning, video conferencing, and more.







Tags: camera that, CCTV cameras, will allow, your computer

Buy Police Equipment

If you are a police officer, you are in need of numerous pieces of police equipment. Most officers carry a gun, mace, handcuffs, a baton and more. Certain items may be provided by your department, but others are the officer's responsibility to purchase.


Instructions


1. Get a list of the items that you need. If you are a new officer, it is likely that your department will provide you with this list during the hiring process. Read through the list to get an idea on how much equipment you need to purchase.


2. Ask other police officers for recommendations. Before you buy police equipment, ask fellow officers where they purchased their equipment.


3. Find the local police supply store. These retailers are statewide and carry all of the equipment that a police officer must carry while on duty. You need to show proper identification before entering these stores.


4. Place an order for the equipment that you need. Certain items, such as ammo and mace can be picked up right away. Other pieces of equipment must be specially ordered. This will be the case for uniforms and bullet proof vests.


5. Request police supply catalogs. Many mail-order companies, such as Galls, sell police equipment and supplies to the public through catalog orders. Certain items may have restrictions.







Tags: Certain items, equipment that, police equipment, police officer, police supply, that need

Monday, October 19, 2009

Spoke A Bmx Wheel

BMX wheels are strong enough to endure significant punishment when built properly.


Lacing a wheel is arguably one of the most challenging projects of BMX bike maintenance and building. However, if you are serious about your riding and would like to be capable of maintaining your own bike, you will need to learn this skill at some point. With the proper tools and equipment, some basic knowledge of wheel components and plenty of patience, lacing your own wheels can save you time and money in the long run.


Instructions


1. Purchase your hubs, rims, spokes and spoke nipples if you haven't already done so, and make sure that they are all compatible. The bike shop that you purchase your parts from should be able to help you with this; otherwise you can use a spoke calculator.


2. Separate your spokes into four groups of 12. Two of these groups will be used per side and will be threaded into the hubs in a slightly different manner. When you begin lacing the wheel, make sure that you begin by inserting spokes into the drive-side of the hub---the side where the freewheel is on a rear wheel---and thread them to the spoke holes oriented specifically for the drive side of the hub.


3. Insert the "key" spoke---the initial spoke---through a hole in the hub flange on the drive side of the hub from the outside. Let the spoke rest along the opposite side of the hub. Beginning with the hole directly to the right of the one you just inserted a spoke through, count nine holes to the right and thread another spoke through. Use a spoke nipple to attach each of these spokes to the holes in the rims on either side of the valve hole in the rim---where the tube valve will eventually be inserted---and secure by using a screwdriver to turn the spoke nipples onto the threads of the spokes for two to three turns.


4. Insert the remaining 10 spokes of that first group through every other hole in the hub flange and attach them to the rim with two to three turns of a spoke nipple. Make sure that you skip four holes in between each of the spokes when attaching them to the rim to ensure that they are going to the correct holes and leaving room for the remaining 36 spokes.


5. Take the second group of 12 spokes and follow the previous instructions for the opposite side of the wheel.


6. Return to the initial side to begin installing the external spokes. Take one spoke and thread it through the inside of the hub flange. Since you are using 48 spokes, use a four-cross pattern when lacing your rims. Cross the inserted spoke over three already-installed spokes to its left and underneath one more before attaching the spoke to the rim with a spoke nipple.


7. Repeat step six for the rest of the spokes in your third group of spokes. Do the exact same process for the opposite side of the wheel with the last group of 12 spokes. At this point your wheel is laced, but will likely feel wobbly and loose.


8. Insert your wheel onto a wheel stand and use a spoke wrench/tensioner to true it. Start by tightening up all of the spokes with one or two turns on each spoke nipple until the wheel feels relatively snug. Spin the wheel in the wheel stand and watch for bends in the wheel. If for example, you notice the wheel pulls to the left, tighten the spoke nipples to the right of the bend, and vice versa. You may even have to slightly loosen the spokes on the left, depending on how much adjustment is needed.







Tags: spoke nipple, group spokes, opposite side, spoke nipples, sure that, drive side, hole flange

Buy A Zippo Lighter

Zippo lighters are not only functional to light cigarettes, candles or anything else but they are also a common collectible item. They are known to last and to have many styles that appeal to all types of purchasers.


Instructions


1. Figure out what type of Zippo lighter you're in the market for. They can be part of a collection as a gift for yourself or someone else and come in many colors and style options.


2. See what types of lighters the collection already has. You can try to complete a collection and buy what is missing or you can begin a whole new style collection.


3. Buy a Zippo lighter as a gift where you can choose from holiday options such as St. Patrick's Day, Christmas or most other major holidays. Select a lighter with a plain cover if you want to have it engraved.


4. Select a style from options that suit the individual, such as Harley Davidson, military, vintage or urban. Choose straight silver or black as a more conservative option for individuals, or go with more colorful models that have graphic designs.


5. Choose a store that offers a variety and make sure they are truly Zippo brand lighters. It's the name that carries the guarantee and warranty people come to expect.







Tags: Zippo lighter

Motorcycle'S Exhaust System Work

Decorative Function


In a car, the exhaust system is simply a utilitarian device meant to process the exhaust and reduce its environmental effect and noise. Motorcycle exhaust systems are different. Motorcycles often have chromed, decorative exhaust tubes that port the gasses away from the engine. Rather than having a single tube to port the spent gas from the whole engine, a motorcycle may have two or even four tubes flowing from the different cylinders. This increases gas flow, making the motorcycle perform more efficiently. More importantly, it looks great.


Exhaust Basics


When the engine expels hot gasses, they are routed into tubes. They flow down in one, two, or four tubes into the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter contains a catalyst, a substance that makes it easier for certain chemical reactions to occur. For example, it turns much of the carbon monoxide in the exhaust into carbon dioxide, a less harmful gas. After that, it flows through to the muffler. The muffler has a resonating chamber specially designed to cancel out the sound waves from the motorcycle engine. The waves reverberate around in the chamber, partially canceling each other out and reducing the sound of the motorcycle.


That Noise


Some motorcycle drivers like their bikes to make a lot of sound. It makes them more noticeable to cars, and gives their bikes a theatrical roar. A motorcyclist gets this sound by installing a muffler that provides less noise cancellations. For example, a cherry bomb is a straight metal tube with holes in it covered by glass to insulate some of the sound. There is no resonating chamber at all, so the motorcycle makes much more noise.







Tags: catalytic converter, four tubes, noise Motorcycle, resonating chamber, their bikes

Friday, October 16, 2009

Wrap A Motorcycle Exhaust

Wrap a Motorcycle Exhaust


Wrapping your motorcycle's exhaust system with a heat-retaining fiberglass wrap can improve your motorcycle's appearance and performance with a minimal investment. Looking similar to a fabric bandage, the insulating fiberglass band is wound around the exhaust's header pipes to hide embarrassing blemishes and dings. The wrap also serves to trap heat within the exhaust, helping the spent exhaust gases flow smoothly to the muffler's outlet. The headers will need to be removed for this task, making some technical skill mandatory. Expect to spend at least one hour removing, wrapping and reinstalling the exhaust system.


Instructions


1. Place the exhaust wrap roll into a bucket filled with clean water. Allow the wrap to soak for at least 15 minutes.


2. Loosen the muffler's exhaust clamp with a socket wrench. Pull the muffler off of the header pipes. Remove the nuts from the header pipes' flanges on the motor with a socket wrench. Pull the header pipes out of the cylinder.


3. Clean the header pipes with an ammonia-based window cleaner spray to remove oil, grease and dirt from the pipes' surface. Dry the header pipes with a lint-free rag.


4. Complete one full wrap around the header pipe with the exhaust wrap. Leave enough of the header pipe below the wrap to allow the muffler to slide into place.


5. Slip the stainless steel cable tie over the first wrapped layer. Tighten the cable tie to secure the wrapped section in place. Cut the excess cable tie material off with wire cutters.


6. Wrap the second layer of wrapping material over the first layer. Overlap the first wrapped layer by a third of its width. Continue to wrap around the pipe, leaving a third of the previous layer exposed.


7. Cover the upper end of the header pipe with a complete wraparound of the wrapping material, leaving enough room at the end of the header pipe for any clamps or flanges that will attach the header pipe to the cylinder.


8. Slip the stainless steel cable tie over the final wrapped layer. Tighten the cable tie to secure the wrapped section in place. Cut the excess cable tie material off with the wire cutters.


9. Reinstall the header pipes onto the motorcycle.







Tags: header pipes, header pipe, wrapped layer, cable material, cable material with, cable over, cable secure

Change A Derby Cover

A custom derby cover, such as this skull motif, can set your bike apart.


On a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, everything from the handlebars to the derby---or clutch inspection---cover can be replaced with a custom piece to reflect its owner's personality. In fact, a wide selection of derby cover are available with nearly any design imaginable, all of which can be bolted on in minutes. Exchanging your boring stock derby cover with a custom cover can add that final touch to your customized Harley-Davidson.


Instructions


1. Clear away any dirt trapped around the edge of the derby cover, using an air compressor.


2. Unscrew the six Torx-head bolts from the perimeter of the derby cover, using a T-27 screwdriver.


3. Pull the derby cover and its gasket off of the motorcycle's primary cover.


4. Place a new derby cover gasket onto the primary cover and mount the new derby cover over it.


5. Screw the derby cover bolts loosely into place, using a T-27 screwdriver.


6. Tighten the derby cover bolts completely, starting at the top bolt and working across in a zig-zag pattern, using a T-27 screwdriver.







Tags: derby cover, derby cover, T-27 screwdriver, using T-27, using T-27 screwdriver, cover bolts

Customize A Harleydavidson Vrod

A customized V-Rod will make your Harley stand out.


If you own a Harley-Davidson V-Rod you have most likely wondered what the bike would look like if you customized it. This is a common occurrence for anyone who purchases a Harley-Davidson. Often, owners struggle with where to start and how far they should take the customizing. Mixing traditional chroming with non-standard features will help you make your Harley-Davidson stand out in a crowd but will not take customizing to the extreme.


Instructions


1. Replace the stock seat with a custom seat. According to V-Mod.com, a custom leather seat is a popular modification for the Harley V-Rod. A custom seat can be purchased from a Harley dealer. In addition, upholstery specialists usually offer services where your stock seat can be customized to your liking.


2. Install chrome hardware. Adding chrome to Harley-Davidson motorcycles has been popular since the 1960s. Chrome hardware like brackets, oil tanks and handlebars can be purchased new and installed on your bike or your stock parts can be taken to a facility that does custom chrome plating.


3. Install Ape Hanger handlebars. Ape Hanger handlebars rise far above the gas tank and force the rider to reach for the handlebars. This was made popular by the Movie "Easy Rider." Ape Hangers are not commonly seen on the V-Rod model so installing them will make your V-Rod stand out.


4. Replace the stock exhaust with a custom exhaust. A custom exhaust not only gives a V-Rod a different look, it also gives the V-Rod a different sound. A stock exhaust also restricts the ability for gasses to exit the combustion chamber. A custom exhaust allows gasses to escape, thus helping to create additional horsepower and torque.







Tags: custom exhaust, make your, custom seat, gives V-Rod, gives V-Rod different, Hanger handlebars, Replace stock

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Install External Speakers To A Hdtv

Install External Speakers to a HDTV


The built-in speakers on many HDTV sets might not provide the audio quality you desire when compared to stand-alone speaker systems. If you live in an apartment or space is tight, setting up full-sized speakers as part of a home-theater system might not be an option. Hooking up a pair of stereo speakers to the audio outputs on your HDTV can improve the sound without taking up a lot of space. Connect only speakers with an amplifier built into the units because the TV's output does not supply enough power for external audio.


Instructions


1. Press the "Power" button on the HDTV to turn off the set while hooking up audio cables.


2. Push in the plug labeled "L" on the Y-adapter into the left jack labeled "Audio Out" on the HDTV. Connect the plug labeled "R" to the right jack on the TV set.


3. Connect the small plug on the end of the external speakers' audio cable to the 3.5 mm jack on the Y-adapter.


4. Attach the other end of the speaker cable to the jack on the back of the left or right speaker, depending on the model.


5. Insert the cable plug attached to one of the speakers to the output jack on the opposite speaker, which contains the built-in amplifier that powers both of them.


6. Connect the DC power adapter cord to the electrical jack on the back of one of the speakers and plug the other end into a wall outlet.







Tags: cable jack, Install External, Install External Speakers, jack back, plug labeled

Oil Filter Alternatives For Harley Davidson

Different Harley Davidson models require different oil filter types.


Harley Davidson brand motorcycles utilize three main spin-on oil filter types depending upon the model. Each type of filter is distinguished by general size, thread size, bypass valve, and anti-drain back valve compatibility. In addition, each of the three types are available from a variety of manufacturers available at major retailers and auto supply stores, as well as through specialty motorcycle part suppliers. The model and year of the motorcycle determines the correct spin-on oil filter to be used.


3 Inch to 3.5 Inch Length


The most common oil filter for Harley Davidson motorcycles, additional specifications for this oil filter include 3/4 inch by 16 tpi threads, 8 psi bypass valve, and an anti-drain back valve. This size oil filter is best suited for several Harley Davidson models. It is used for the Harley Davidson XL Sportster manufactured from 1984 to 2007, the XLH Sportster, manufactured from 1954 to 1987; FLH model, manufactured from 1953 to 1982; the CH6060 FX, manufactured from 1983 to 1987; Evo 80, manufactured from 1984 to 1999; Evo 88, manufactured from 1999 to 2006; and Evo 96, manufactured from 2007 to the present. The following models of this oil filter type are available: Purolator PL14476 / PL14477, Mobil1 M1-102, Bosch 3330, Walmart Supertech ST4967/4386, AMSOil SMF 133/134/135, Baldwin B33/B37, Fram PH4967, Hastings LF410/LF 413, NAPA 1394, Purolator ML16822, and WIX 51394/51396.


2.5 Inch to 3.5 Inch Length


Utilized only in the V-Rod Harley Davidson model motorcycles, all years, this filter boasts 20 by 1.5 millimeter threads, a 14 psi pass valve, an anti-drain pass valve, and a 2.3 inch O.D. gasket. The following models of this oil filter type are available: AC Delco PF2135, AMSOil SMF103, Carquest 85358, AC Delco PF2135, FRAM PH6017A, Honda 15410-MCJ-000, K&N KN-204, NAPA Gold 1358, Purolator ML16817, STP SMO 17, and WIX 51358.


Various Lengths


The final type of oil valve utilized in Harley Davidson motorcycles, is also the second most common but does not have the standard length seen in the other models. This type of filter is used in FX model bikes manufactured from 1971 to 1982, as well as CH6067 FXE, FXS and FXWG models manufactured from 1982 to1986. Specifications for the filter include 16 by 1.5 millimeter threads, an 8 psi bypass valve, and an anti-drain back valve. The following models of this oil filter type are available: AMSOil SMF 132/132C, EMGO 10-26980, Fram PH6019 and PH6074, K&N KN-153, NAPA 7013 and WIX 57013.







Tags: manufactured from, Harley Davidson, this filter, valve anti-drain, anti-drain back, anti-drain back valve

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Troubleshoot A Bell Expressvu Satellite Receiver

The satellite dish communicates with the satellite receiver.


A satellite receiver receives a signal from the satellite dish in order to bring satellite television programming to your television set. If the dish is improperly aligned in accordance with the receiver's signal or if cables are incorrectly installed, your satellite receiver's performance will suffer. Fortunately, identifying and fixing these potential Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver issues requires no special tools or formal training.


Instructions


1. Check the power cable of the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver and ensure it is firmly plugged into a wall outlet or a power strip.


2. Look at the back of the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver. Find the "ANT IN" port that is designed for the coaxial cable that comes from the back of your satellite dish's mast. If this cable has come loose from this "ANT IN" port, reconnect it to restore satellite signal reception.


3. Check the connection between the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver and your television. The Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver should be connected to the television using the composite cable that comes with the receiver. There are two ends to the composite cable, with each end consisting of one yellow, one red and one white plug. The rear of both your TV and the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver have matching composite ports. Color-match each set of plugs to their respective ports and plug them in.


4. Turn on the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver and your television. If you are still not receiving satellite reception, choose the "Signal Meter Option" from the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver's menu that appears on your TV after the device boots up.


5. Go outside to the satellite dish and a leave someone with the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver's digital signal meter. This meter will help you adjust the dish to achieve the correct satellite signal strength.


6. Make elevation (up/down) adjustments to the satellite dish. Make one of these incremental adjustments every five to seven seconds, giving the digital signal meter a chance to update. When it updates, the meter will indicate how close you are to pointing the dish to the correct coordinates for an optimal signal. Continue making elevation adjustments as the receiver's signal meter suggests.


7. Use the signal meter to also make azimuth (left/right) adjustments to the dish. Make each of these adjustments every five to seven seconds, as well. Continue making dish adjustments until the Bell ExpressVu satellite receiver's signal meter indicates the coordinates have been reached. This will restore a strong satellite signal to your receiver and enable satellite television programming.







Tags: Bell ExpressVu, ExpressVu satellite, Bell ExpressVu satellite, satellite receiver, ExpressVu satellite receiver, satellite dish, satellite receiver

Change The Exhaust Sound

The muffler is the single largest contributor to the sound presence of a vehicle.


A vehicle's sound is primarily impacted by the engine and exhaust systems installed. Larger volume engines produce more exhaust, which typically deepens the sound and increases the audible volume. Exhaust systems may be installed which allow the sound presence of the exhaust system to be dampened, amplified, made raspy or throaty or mellowed. With a given engine, the style of exhaust and specific components used may be altered to change the sound presence.


Instructions


1. Install a different muffler. The muffler is the single largest contributor to the sound of the exhaust. Mufflers which allow virtually all the exhaust gases to be ported straight through with very little obstruction or dampening will produce some of the most audible exhaust presence. Multiple chambered mufflers will allow the exhaust gases to be dampened within the chambers and to allow some of the resonance to smooth or mellow the sound produced (because each cylinder fires separately, the sounds produced by the porting of exhaust from each cylinder can be used to balance or partially cancel the sound produced by another cylinder). Longer and larger exhausts will usually mellow and deepen the sound the system produces. Mufflers that force the exhaust gases through sound dampening chambers or restrict the gases will reduce the sound produced (restriction forces the sound waves to bounce against each other and reduces audible output) . Mufflers with linings that specifically absorb sound waves will also dampen the sound output.


2. Install a resonator. When installed, a resonator allows more of the sound waves to acoustically rebound within the resonator's chamber. This allows the sound waves to bounce off the walls of the chamber and cancel other sound waves in the resonator. The result is a dampening effect of the exhaust presence. If the resonator is used in place of a catalytic converter, the sound presence may increase. Because the catalytic converter acts as a dampening of the exhaust sound, removing the catalytic converter and replacing it with a resonator may result in a net increase in the sound volume. Check the legality before removing a catalytic converter.


3. Install a "straight through" exhaust system. Exhaust chambers and pipes that allow gases to pass directly from the engine (or catalytic converter) to the exhaust tail without obstruction are considered to be straight through designs. Straight through designs minimize the obstruction to sound waves and result in an exhaust that is typically louder and responds directly to engine RPMs (noted as a throaty sound, growl, or barking sound as a result of the exhaust gases produced by each cylinder arriving at the tailpipe virtually unobstructed).


4. Install an aftermarket tip. Dual-walled, beveled and flared tips generally amplify the sound produced by the exhaust. Exhaust tips with outlets larger than the exhaust pipe inlet may amplify sound. Resonated exhaust tips are lined with fiberglass or sound dampening material and are specifically designed to reduce the sound output of the exhaust system.


5. Install a cross-pipe. If you have a dual exhaust system and both exhausts do not intermingle gases, you can significantly alter the sound by installing a cross-pipe. The pipe allows gases from one exhaust system to intermingle with exhaust gases from the other system. Because exhaust gas porting occurs at intermittent rates, the mingling of gases will smooth the total flow and mellow the total sound. Cross-pipe, x-pipe, h-pipe, y-pipe designs and dual-in muffler designs all use the intermingling of gases to balance the exhaust output.


6. Wrap the muffler and exhaust with an acoustic wrap (or spray with a sound dampening high temperature material). Acoustic wraps and sound dampening sprays designed for use on an exhaust system may reduce transferred vibrations and alter the total sound of the exhaust system.







Tags: exhaust system, sound waves, catalytic converter, exhaust gases, sound dampening, sound presence, sound produced

What Makeup Is Used On Soap Operas

What Makeup Is Used on Soap Operas?


Soap opera actors need more than just waterproof makeup to withstand tears for dramatic scenes; renowned for looking flawless onscreen, soap actresses give makeup lovers reason to want a peek into the makeup kits of the pros responsible for such perfection. With a little practice and an investment in the necessary products, anyone can recreate a face suitable for the soaps. Does this Spark an idea?


Significance


The details picked up by the camera in these days of high-definition--or "HD"--TV require equally high-quality makeup for use on soap operas. Even if the script does not require an actor to look particularly glamorous, he still needs the skills of a professional makeup artist. For instance, a minute amount of shine that would go unnoticed in person is captured on camera and has to be eliminated in order to keep from distracting viewers. By using cosmetics especially formulated to last under the intensity of bright lights, makeup artists spend less time and energy on touch-ups.


Types


Although the airbrushing technique that sprays makeup evenly and finely onto actors' faces is now commonplace, makeup artists still use the traditional makeup application method. MAC, or Make-up Art Cosmetics, is a department store brand that can provide the necessary coverage and pigmentation for TV. It was developed to hold up under even the most stringent lighting conditions for photography, and for this reason can be found in many professional makeup artists' kits. MAC Cosmetics can also be purchased at freestanding stores. A specialty brand like Ben Nye, which was created by a Hollywood makeup artist, also offers products that are suitable for a soap opera. You can find Ben Nye Makeup online (see Resources).


Considerations


For everyday wear, it is not necessary to purchase makeup especially manufactured for TV to look as glamorous as a soap opera actress. The foundation may be too heavy for your comfort, and wearing it in broad daylight could make you appear highly unnatural, as though you are wearing a mask. The water-activated pancake-type foundations that were created by makeup artist Max Factor in Hollywood's golden age are an example of soap opera makeup that you might want to avoid for daily wear. You can, however, get away with wearing other highly pigmented products like eyeshadows, eyeliners and lipsticks. With a light hand and expertise at blending, you can layer makeup on to be as light or as heavy as you desire.


Misconceptions


While you can find a large assortment of colors at the cosmetics aisle of any popular drugstore or perhaps even at the dollar store, the quality of this makeup is more than likely not sufficient for a television appearance. The foundation in particular may not have the kind of texture that films well. Keep in mind that not all cosmetics are created equal. If you will be filmed and are uncertain whether or not there will be a professional makeup artist, you can put together a personal makeup kit on short notice. Pay a visit to the makeup counters at the department store and explain to the sales staff that you are looking for products with opaque coverage. It is worthwhile to come prepared, as a makeup person is not always provided by television networks.


Warning


As soon as filming is over, do your skin a favor by thoroughly removing your makeup. Since TV cosmetics are typically thicker and heavier than everyday makeup, your skin can rejuvenate more quickly and breathe more easily once you clean your face. If the artist who applied your makeup does not practice good hygiene with her tools and cosmetics, you have an even bigger reason to cleanse the impurities off of your skin immediately. Makeup that has been double-dipped into and brushes that are not sanitized in between clients are a breeding ground for bacteria. Eye and skin infections are a common result of these unsanitary makeup habits.







Tags: makeup artist, makeup artists, professional makeup, soap opera, your skin, department store, Makeup Used

Disable Write Protection On A Hard Drive

Disable Write Protection on a Hard Drive


Many times a user may find that their hard drive has become locked. This can be due to a software error, a hardware error, or a user error. Enabling write protection on the hard drive will not allow any more writing to be performed on the hard drive. This is not a good thing when something needs to be saved. There are times, however, when an extra hard drive full of important documents should be protected.


Instructions


1. Log into Windows. Click the "Start" button. Select "Run" or "Search" depending on your operating system. Type "Command" to bring up the command prompt. Type "Lock sys: on" to lock the c: drive, or "Lock sys: off" to unlock it. If you are wanting to lock or unlock another drive then simply replace "sys" with the drive letter (i.e. Lock D: on).


2. Check the jumpers on your hard drive. Some hard drives have jumper settings that allow the user to lock the hard drive. Check the hard drive documentation for more information do this.


3. Unplug the hard drive. Every once and a while the hard drive just wants to be stubborn. Disconnect the hard drive from the power source, wait a few minutes and plug it back in.


4. Change the write protect in the BIOS. Not all BIOS's will have this feature, but many do. Navigate through the BIOS and find the write protect option. enter the BIOS depends on the computer manufacturer.


5. Reset the BIOS by navigating through the BIOS and finding the reset option. Not all BIOS's will have this feature.







Tags: hard drive, BIOS will, BIOS will have, Disable Write, Disable Write Protection, hard drive, have this

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Redeem Harley Davidson Visa Points

The Harley-Davidson Visa credit card allows you to earn one point for every dollar you spend. You can use the credit card anywhere, not solely at Harley-Davidson stores. Once you earn 2,500 points, you can redeem your points for a $25 Harley Chrome cash certificate that can be used at any participating Harley-Davidson dealership. Unredeemed points expired on December 31 three years after they were earned.


Instructions


1. Look on your Harley-Davidson Visa credit card statement. On the second page you should see a section with your rewards points information. You can redeem points in increments of 2,500.


2. Call (800) 699-2281 and request to redeem your rewards points. You will need to provide your Visa credit card number and other personal information to confirm you are the person whose name is on the card.


3. Look for your Harley-Davidson Chrome Cash in the mail in three to five weeks. The gift certificate will expire in 90 days. You can apply your certificate to Genuine Motor Accessories, Harley-Davidson clothing, service on your motorcycle and other products at Harley-Davidson dealerships.







Tags: credit card, Visa credit, Visa credit card, Harley-Davidson Visa, Harley-Davidson Visa credit

Change The Battery Cover On A Harley Davidson

Harley Davidson offers a vast range of aftermarket parts to insure that no two bikes are the same. Nearly every component of a Harley Davidson motorcycle can be changed or replaced with a custom part, some dripping in chrome, others wearing black-on-black, to fit the owner's personality. The battery cover, a piece that is often neglected, can also be changed to add that final touch to any custom bike.


Instructions


Sportster (XL) Models


1. Remove the original battery cover by grasping the cover at its upper corners and pulling away gently to release it from the frame's mounting clips. Then, lift the cover upward slightly to remove the mounting grommet from the battery


tray's tab.


2. Wipe away any dirt or buildup on the frame and battery tray.


3. Install the new battery cover by sliding the new side cover's grommet onto the mounting tab on the battery tray, using a slight downward motion. Align the top of the battery cover's mounting clips to the frame, starting with the front clip. Gently press the battery cover into the clips.


4. Wipe away any fingerprints or smudges from the battery cover.


Dyna Models


5. Remove the seat and disconnect the battery, starting with the negative terminal.


6. Pull the battery out of the tray and loosen the mounting bolts that secure the lower tray to the frame. Remove the original top and side covers from the battery tray and discard or store for later use.


7. Install the new cover by lining up the mounting clips on the bottom of the cover with the retaining lip on the lower battery tray. Press the clips onto the lip until they are seated completely. If mounted correctly, the top of the new cover will fit securely and evenly under the frame.


8. Open the new cover, tighten the battery tray mounting screws and install the battery. Connect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal.


9. Replace the seat.

Tags: battery tray, battery cover, from battery, Harley Davidson, mounting clips