It is always dangerous to make predictions. It is even more dangerous and potentially embarrassing to make those predictions in writing. Nevertheless, last year at this time I made some predictions and suggestions in this column regarding electronic products and services during 2008. How did I do? Well, let’s see
In that column I mentioned that you could look for some great deals on digital televisions after the 2008 Super Bowl®. Once that day passed, sales would slow down and you would be able to get some great deals. For sure that did happen and with the slowing of the economy and the added DTV manufacturing capacity now on line, there continues to be great deals on new digital TV sets of all sizes. Since they have been so deeply discounted, I don’t think you will see any significant price cutting as we move toward the February 17th analog cut off.
Also in that column and in several others during the year I warned that if you didn’t decide to subscribe to cable or satellite you needed to either purchase a new digital TV or get a set top adapter. Well, after a less than orderly start, the adapters did find their way into stores in early 2008. However, even today, some retailers have had supply issues. Also, the federal government began to issue coupons. Each household is eligible to get 2 coupons each worth $40 toward the purchase of a DTV adapter. That program from our good friends in DC has been less than smooth. Since they decided that the coupons would have a 90 day expiration period, many people found themselves with worthless coupons. If you have not ordered coupons, you can still do so. For more information you can call 888 DTV-2009 (800-388-2009) or go to www.dtv2009.gov.
I opined that the cell phone providers would begin to expand capabilities beyond one-to-one communication. Many will find it surprising that the United States and Canada are among the most backward countries in the world with our cell phone networks and hand set capabilities. In many countries today you can now do your banking via cell phone, pay for gas, buy a subway fare and watch sporting events. Well, I was a bit optimistic about this prediction. The flagging economy has slowed the introduction of several enhancements. I don’t see much change in 2009.
I predicted that more devices, especially in automobiles would be controlled by voice commands. This technology has been available on higher end products. Again I was wrong as the big car companies had other issues to address and slowed down implementation of this technology.
I predicted that the process of “data mining” would increase with the promotion of store affinity cards that identify you as you check out with your purchases. More and more stores have such cards and are using them to target the distribution of advertisements and coupons via direct mail using this information.
Finally, I predicted that the green energy efficiency movement will get into full swing with added emphasis on doing little things in your home that will add up to substantial community savings. For sure that happened, spurred on by the price of oil and electricity.
Next week I will have some predictions for 2009.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
A Visit from the Geeks
… with sincere apologies to Clement Clarke Moore
’Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the land
Not a computer was working as there was no broadband.
The software was loaded and wires connected with care,
In hopes that Cincinnati Bell or Time Warner soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of an Nintendo Wii danced in their heads;
Unable to Google or log on to Amazon.com
We found neither the Wii or even a new Tom Tom.
When out on the driveway two trucks pulled in,
We sprang to our windows to investigate the din.
The LED lights reflecting on the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of high-tech to everything below.
When, what should appear to my wondering eye,
But one rep from Bell and the other, a cable guy,
More punctual that most times with tool belts they came,
Both knocked on the door and asked for our name:
“No Smith, Jones or Johnson do we have on our lists
Are you sure that dispatch might not have missed?”
A quick call to the office confirmed our plight
and they both said they could set things right.
They spoke no more, but went straight to their work,
One checked the phone line the other gave a smirk,
“That’s old tech” he explained,
“Cable is better for the internet to be sustained.”
Back and forth they argued well into the night
While my wife and I saw that finding a Wii was getting out of sight.
And then, in a twinkling, we heard up above
The clanking of a ladder and someone shout “Shove!”
As we drew in our heads, and were turning around,
Down the chimney the DirectTV man came with a bound.
He was dressed all in blue, from head to toe,
And his face indicated that he was someone in the know
A bundle of tools he had flung on his back,
A drill and saw and of course a spare battery pack.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work
And installed a new dish, receiver and one added perk
A new satellite modem was part of the deal
For only $150 a month, what a steal.
This will bring your internet back he inferred;
It not too late to order on line he assured.
So we logged on to Shopzilla and a Wii we did find
Compete with free shipping from UPS, oh how kind.
With our broadband back we were both in awe
And bought most everything on line that we saw.
There were Blackberries, iPods and an new HDTV,
A Laptop, cell phone and of course a DVD.
As the three went to their trucks and were driving away
“Don’t forget the extra batteries” we heard them all say.
’Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the land
Not a computer was working as there was no broadband.
The software was loaded and wires connected with care,
In hopes that Cincinnati Bell or Time Warner soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of an Nintendo Wii danced in their heads;
Unable to Google or log on to Amazon.com
We found neither the Wii or even a new Tom Tom.
When out on the driveway two trucks pulled in,
We sprang to our windows to investigate the din.
The LED lights reflecting on the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of high-tech to everything below.
When, what should appear to my wondering eye,
But one rep from Bell and the other, a cable guy,
More punctual that most times with tool belts they came,
Both knocked on the door and asked for our name:
“No Smith, Jones or Johnson do we have on our lists
Are you sure that dispatch might not have missed?”
A quick call to the office confirmed our plight
and they both said they could set things right.
They spoke no more, but went straight to their work,
One checked the phone line the other gave a smirk,
“That’s old tech” he explained,
“Cable is better for the internet to be sustained.”
Back and forth they argued well into the night
While my wife and I saw that finding a Wii was getting out of sight.
And then, in a twinkling, we heard up above
The clanking of a ladder and someone shout “Shove!”
As we drew in our heads, and were turning around,
Down the chimney the DirectTV man came with a bound.
He was dressed all in blue, from head to toe,
And his face indicated that he was someone in the know
A bundle of tools he had flung on his back,
A drill and saw and of course a spare battery pack.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work
And installed a new dish, receiver and one added perk
A new satellite modem was part of the deal
For only $150 a month, what a steal.
This will bring your internet back he inferred;
It not too late to order on line he assured.
So we logged on to Shopzilla and a Wii we did find
Compete with free shipping from UPS, oh how kind.
With our broadband back we were both in awe
And bought most everything on line that we saw.
There were Blackberries, iPods and an new HDTV,
A Laptop, cell phone and of course a DVD.
As the three went to their trucks and were driving away
“Don’t forget the extra batteries” we heard them all say.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Holiday Gift Suggestions - A feast for the eyes and ears!
Last week and again this week I am suggesting some electronic items that you might consider giving to that special person this holiday who likes all things digital. Last week we looked at items for the camera buff. This week let’s look at some audio and video devices that you might consider.
Bluetooth™ devices are all the rage nowadays. For those who don’t recognize the term Bluetooth™, it refers to the technology that allows devices to connect without wires over very short distances. For example, Bluetooth™ technology is used by various earpieces that wirelessly connect to a cell phone. So you don’t get tangled up in a web of wires while driving down I-75.
There are many Bluetooth™ cell phone earpieces starting at about $40. Remember the earpiece also serves as the cell phone microphone. The big differences in the various models comes in the area of battery life and physical size. Smaller is better.
Another inexpensive suggestion for those on your list who use an iPod® or any other digital music device is an upgrade to the ear buds. Ear buds are those small headphones that fit in the right and left ear and serve as speakers. While all ear buds may look to be the same on the outside, their ability to reproduce various audio frequencies, especially the low end bass notes, are vastly different. In most cases, the more expensive the better. It may seem like a lot of money to pay more than $60 for two small plastic buds with thin wires, but for the music aficionado it is not. If you want one of the very best, go for the Bose™ model priced at about $90.
With more and more people wanting to play their iPod® music in the car, there are several adapters that allow a simple connection , either hard wired or via the existing FM radio receiver. Peripheral's PXAMGA Media Gateway lets you add iPod control and HD Radio to your compatible satellite-ready factory stereo. Go to http://www.crutchfield.com/ and see if your car radio is compatible. Prices start at about $160. A less expensive alternative is the Radioplay 300 for $60 or the Incarplay from Monster, Inc at $35. Both will wirelessly connect your iPod® to your FM car radio. Both are available at Best Buy and other electronics retailers
With Digital and HDTV all the rage, there are several inexpensive ways to turn a computer (desktop or laptop) into a digital TV receiver and recorder. Some are very small devices about the size of a memory stick and plug into the USB port of the computer. Since most often the screen on a computer is already able to display superior pictures than are found on regular TV, using one of these devices makes a lot of sense. My pick for use in a desktop computer is the Hauppauge WinTV HVR-1600. It even comes with a handheld remote control. For use on a laptop consider the WinTV-HVR-950. It plugs into the laptop like any USB device and it also has a neat remote control. Both of these adapters can be purchased for about $100 at most computer retailers or online. They both allow the recording and playback of digital TV programs.
Finally, a neat stocking stuffer from Organize.com. It is perfect for those who use their laptop computer in darkened areas. For $20 you can purchase a small gooseneck light that plugs into the USB port and shines a low intensity light on the keyboard. For those who give lots of computer-based presentations in darkened conference rooms and auditoriums this is a great inexpensive and very useful gift.
I hope these provide some helpful ideas. Happy Holidays.
Bluetooth™ devices are all the rage nowadays. For those who don’t recognize the term Bluetooth™, it refers to the technology that allows devices to connect without wires over very short distances. For example, Bluetooth™ technology is used by various earpieces that wirelessly connect to a cell phone. So you don’t get tangled up in a web of wires while driving down I-75.
There are many Bluetooth™ cell phone earpieces starting at about $40. Remember the earpiece also serves as the cell phone microphone. The big differences in the various models comes in the area of battery life and physical size. Smaller is better.
Another inexpensive suggestion for those on your list who use an iPod® or any other digital music device is an upgrade to the ear buds. Ear buds are those small headphones that fit in the right and left ear and serve as speakers. While all ear buds may look to be the same on the outside, their ability to reproduce various audio frequencies, especially the low end bass notes, are vastly different. In most cases, the more expensive the better. It may seem like a lot of money to pay more than $60 for two small plastic buds with thin wires, but for the music aficionado it is not. If you want one of the very best, go for the Bose™ model priced at about $90.
With more and more people wanting to play their iPod® music in the car, there are several adapters that allow a simple connection , either hard wired or via the existing FM radio receiver. Peripheral's PXAMGA Media Gateway lets you add iPod control and HD Radio to your compatible satellite-ready factory stereo. Go to http://www.crutchfield.com/ and see if your car radio is compatible. Prices start at about $160. A less expensive alternative is the Radioplay 300 for $60 or the Incarplay from Monster, Inc at $35. Both will wirelessly connect your iPod® to your FM car radio. Both are available at Best Buy and other electronics retailers
With Digital and HDTV all the rage, there are several inexpensive ways to turn a computer (desktop or laptop) into a digital TV receiver and recorder. Some are very small devices about the size of a memory stick and plug into the USB port of the computer. Since most often the screen on a computer is already able to display superior pictures than are found on regular TV, using one of these devices makes a lot of sense. My pick for use in a desktop computer is the Hauppauge WinTV HVR-1600. It even comes with a handheld remote control. For use on a laptop consider the WinTV-HVR-950. It plugs into the laptop like any USB device and it also has a neat remote control. Both of these adapters can be purchased for about $100 at most computer retailers or online. They both allow the recording and playback of digital TV programs.
Finally, a neat stocking stuffer from Organize.com. It is perfect for those who use their laptop computer in darkened areas. For $20 you can purchase a small gooseneck light that plugs into the USB port and shines a low intensity light on the keyboard. For those who give lots of computer-based presentations in darkened conference rooms and auditoriums this is a great inexpensive and very useful gift.
I hope these provide some helpful ideas. Happy Holidays.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Holiday Gift Suggestions - Batteries Not Included
With the holiday gift giving season upon us I thought I would use the next few columns to suggest some neat electronic items for that special digitally mesmerized person on your list. With the economy in a slump, you should find very attractive prices for electronics at stores large and small. Do be careful though. For example, Circuit City is on very thin ice and has already closed many stores. I would be very cautious buying any large item that may need to be returned or repaired from that retailer.
This week let’s start with ideas for the camera buff. Cameras, both still and video, are getting smaller and smaller. One of the negative byproducts of the compact size and weight is that the cameras are hard to keep steady. How about giving a mini-tripod? There are several models that can fit in a pocket or purse that will connect to most any camera giving a secure base. Some have telescoping legs. Others have flexible legs like large pipe cleaners that can shape around uneven surfaces. You can find these at many camera stores. I saw two models at Best Buy for about 10 bucks.
Once that perfect picture is taken you want to show it off. You might consider an electronic picture frame. They come is sizes from 3”x 5” to as large as 11”x 17”. Some will play back short videos. Be sure that they have several ways to load pictures. Most have slots for SD cards and Memory Sticks. You want the frame to accept whatever card the camera uses to store the pictures. On sale you will find small frames for as little as $40. Large ones can go for several hundred dollars. You should find them in many discount stores.
Much smaller, but way cool, is the Photo Key Chain. It has a small postage stamp size LCD screen attached to key chain. It can hold a few electronic pictures and display them clearly, albeit in miniature. A real stocking stuffer for about $20 at many discount stores.
If you really want big pictures, many new large screen digital TVs now have a slot to insert camera media so you can display your favorite photos on the TV. So this year instead of watching the Super-Bowl half time show you can regale your guests with pictures of the family’s vacation trip to the Warther Carvings Museum and Button Collection in Dover, Ohio.
Staying with the photographic theme I continue to be a big fan of the “Flip Camera.” This small video camera about the size of a pack of cigarettes continues to be one of the best sellers in the video camera category. The camera weighs only a few ounces and will easily fit in your pocket or purse. From this small package comes many features. It has a small LCD screen that serves as the viewfinder and playback window. It has a fixed lens with digital zoom and runs for about four hours on two AA batteries. The internal flash memory holds an hour of video.
What impresses me most are the controls, or lack thereof. The camera has an on/off button and only a few other controls. There is a large red button. Push it once and you are recording. Push it again and it stops and saves the video. The only other controls are a volume control, an erase control and a playback control. All the video settings are automatic. The color and picture sharpness are as good as or better than cameras selling at five times the price. Audio settings are automatic. It is a great way to capture the holiday celebrations. The ”Flip” sells for $150 wherever video cameras are sold.
More ideas next week.
This week let’s start with ideas for the camera buff. Cameras, both still and video, are getting smaller and smaller. One of the negative byproducts of the compact size and weight is that the cameras are hard to keep steady. How about giving a mini-tripod? There are several models that can fit in a pocket or purse that will connect to most any camera giving a secure base. Some have telescoping legs. Others have flexible legs like large pipe cleaners that can shape around uneven surfaces. You can find these at many camera stores. I saw two models at Best Buy for about 10 bucks.
Once that perfect picture is taken you want to show it off. You might consider an electronic picture frame. They come is sizes from 3”x 5” to as large as 11”x 17”. Some will play back short videos. Be sure that they have several ways to load pictures. Most have slots for SD cards and Memory Sticks. You want the frame to accept whatever card the camera uses to store the pictures. On sale you will find small frames for as little as $40. Large ones can go for several hundred dollars. You should find them in many discount stores.
Much smaller, but way cool, is the Photo Key Chain. It has a small postage stamp size LCD screen attached to key chain. It can hold a few electronic pictures and display them clearly, albeit in miniature. A real stocking stuffer for about $20 at many discount stores.
If you really want big pictures, many new large screen digital TVs now have a slot to insert camera media so you can display your favorite photos on the TV. So this year instead of watching the Super-Bowl half time show you can regale your guests with pictures of the family’s vacation trip to the Warther Carvings Museum and Button Collection in Dover, Ohio.
Staying with the photographic theme I continue to be a big fan of the “Flip Camera.” This small video camera about the size of a pack of cigarettes continues to be one of the best sellers in the video camera category. The camera weighs only a few ounces and will easily fit in your pocket or purse. From this small package comes many features. It has a small LCD screen that serves as the viewfinder and playback window. It has a fixed lens with digital zoom and runs for about four hours on two AA batteries. The internal flash memory holds an hour of video.
What impresses me most are the controls, or lack thereof. The camera has an on/off button and only a few other controls. There is a large red button. Push it once and you are recording. Push it again and it stops and saves the video. The only other controls are a volume control, an erase control and a playback control. All the video settings are automatic. The color and picture sharpness are as good as or better than cameras selling at five times the price. Audio settings are automatic. It is a great way to capture the holiday celebrations. The ”Flip” sells for $150 wherever video cameras are sold.
More ideas next week.
Monday, December 1, 2008
There is Something "Phishey" Going On
The stories seem to be all the same. The email begins with a sad tale of someone’s father or uncle or second cousin twice removed being persecuted in some third world country. The emailer is desperate to find a kind soul in the US who will help this poor family find a way to transfer their money out of the country. To add credibility to the missive the email is filled with grammatical errors and a copious amount of deferential uses of “sir, madam, kind person, concerned American, etc.” Of course, if you will help them out of their dire straights they will split the booty with you. All you need do is send them your bank account information and they will take care of all the rest of the details.
Even with a very good spam filter on my email accounts I get one or two of these a week. The fact that they are still circulating tells me that some people may still be falling for this scam. A scan of recent newspaper articles indicates that there is no dearth of rascals happy to relive you of your money on line.
I would hope that most of us would see right though the scam described above but there are many other more “creative” miscreants developing a new one each week.
Most recently there have been many “phishing” expeditions. Phishing is a type of on line scam that is designed to steal your valuable personal data, such as credit card numbers, banking passwords, account data, or other information. It usually takes the form of an email that looks like an official communication from your bank or other financial institution or even the IRS. Often it is replete with an official logo and other corporate identification graphics. The message usually relates that, “as part of our commitment to your security we are verifying your account information in order to prevent any unauthorized person from getting your information.” The email contains several questions such as your name, address, favorite color, city of birth, Social Security number and bank passwords.
Replying to this email can wipe out your bank account and strip you of your identity in a New York minute. It can’t be repeated enough that no business, bank or department of the Federal government will ever send you an email or call you on the phone asking for this information. If you receive one of these messages, the only thing you should do is delete the message and, if you wish, contact the bank or other institution from which it was allegedly sent. Don’t EVER hit reply!
If you reply to this email and, even more importantly, open an attachment you may be at an even bigger risk. Replying to the email tells the sender that they have reached a “live person.” They now have a good email address and will use it in the future to try new ways of relieving you of your cash. They are very persistent. Opening an attachment is even more dangerous as it can release a small program into your computer innards that can harvest this personal information and transmit it back to the perpetrators. Often they make opening the attachment very attractive by indicating that you have a “free gift” and details are in the attachment. For sure it is a “gift” but most likely not “free
Even with a very good spam filter on my email accounts I get one or two of these a week. The fact that they are still circulating tells me that some people may still be falling for this scam. A scan of recent newspaper articles indicates that there is no dearth of rascals happy to relive you of your money on line.
I would hope that most of us would see right though the scam described above but there are many other more “creative” miscreants developing a new one each week.
Most recently there have been many “phishing” expeditions. Phishing is a type of on line scam that is designed to steal your valuable personal data, such as credit card numbers, banking passwords, account data, or other information. It usually takes the form of an email that looks like an official communication from your bank or other financial institution or even the IRS. Often it is replete with an official logo and other corporate identification graphics. The message usually relates that, “as part of our commitment to your security we are verifying your account information in order to prevent any unauthorized person from getting your information.” The email contains several questions such as your name, address, favorite color, city of birth, Social Security number and bank passwords.
Replying to this email can wipe out your bank account and strip you of your identity in a New York minute. It can’t be repeated enough that no business, bank or department of the Federal government will ever send you an email or call you on the phone asking for this information. If you receive one of these messages, the only thing you should do is delete the message and, if you wish, contact the bank or other institution from which it was allegedly sent. Don’t EVER hit reply!
If you reply to this email and, even more importantly, open an attachment you may be at an even bigger risk. Replying to the email tells the sender that they have reached a “live person.” They now have a good email address and will use it in the future to try new ways of relieving you of your cash. They are very persistent. Opening an attachment is even more dangerous as it can release a small program into your computer innards that can harvest this personal information and transmit it back to the perpetrators. Often they make opening the attachment very attractive by indicating that you have a “free gift” and details are in the attachment. For sure it is a “gift” but most likely not “free
Monday, November 24, 2008
Less than 90 Days To Get Ready For Digital Broadcasting
There are less than 90 days until the US ceases analog TV broadcasting. I have written often about this subject over the last year but the questions that I continue to get reinforce the fact that many are still somewhat confused about what this change will mean to them.
To summarize … at midnight February 17, 2009, all full power TV stations in the US will turn off all analog TV transmitters and continue broadcasting using only digital signals. For most TV viewers this will be a non-event since most receive TV using cable or satellite services. These services will do all the necessary conversion allowing you to continue to use your old analog TV set. You need do nothing!
For those who receive TV using an antenna, there are three options available. You can subscribe to cable or satellite. You can purchase a new TV set with a digital tuner built in. You can purchase a DTV converter for your analog set.
As we get closer to the deadline I have noticed more and more disinformation and half truths coming from some unscrupulous retailers. Several people have related to me that a salesperson has insisted that they must purchase an expensive high definition TV or they will lose all TV this February. I have also seen some direct mail pieces from cable and satellite companies that lead the reader to believe that only cable and satellite provide digital programming and you must upgrade to the digital or HD service before February 17th.
Both the statements are wrong. You don’t have to spend a lot of money for a digital TV set. There are sets available for less the $200. While these inexpensive sets will not have giant screens and they will not be high definition, they will receive all the digital broadcasts and in most cases be superior to any analog set.
If you subscribe to a cable or satellite service today, you do not need to upgrade to a more expensive tier of service unless you want to have an HD service. If you are using your existing analog set, there is no reason to upgrade. You analog TV can’t display HD.
For those who do get a DTV converter and continue to use an antenna, you will have access to many more local channels and the picture on your analog set will never look better. The converters were hard to find last summer but my recent visit to several big box retailers found many selections available for about $59.00 or less. It is not too late to get two $40 coupons from the Federal Government. Just call 888-388-2009 or go to the web www.dtv2009.gov.
A little preparation now will assure a smooth transition next February.
To summarize … at midnight February 17, 2009, all full power TV stations in the US will turn off all analog TV transmitters and continue broadcasting using only digital signals. For most TV viewers this will be a non-event since most receive TV using cable or satellite services. These services will do all the necessary conversion allowing you to continue to use your old analog TV set. You need do nothing!
For those who receive TV using an antenna, there are three options available. You can subscribe to cable or satellite. You can purchase a new TV set with a digital tuner built in. You can purchase a DTV converter for your analog set.
As we get closer to the deadline I have noticed more and more disinformation and half truths coming from some unscrupulous retailers. Several people have related to me that a salesperson has insisted that they must purchase an expensive high definition TV or they will lose all TV this February. I have also seen some direct mail pieces from cable and satellite companies that lead the reader to believe that only cable and satellite provide digital programming and you must upgrade to the digital or HD service before February 17th.
Both the statements are wrong. You don’t have to spend a lot of money for a digital TV set. There are sets available for less the $200. While these inexpensive sets will not have giant screens and they will not be high definition, they will receive all the digital broadcasts and in most cases be superior to any analog set.
If you subscribe to a cable or satellite service today, you do not need to upgrade to a more expensive tier of service unless you want to have an HD service. If you are using your existing analog set, there is no reason to upgrade. You analog TV can’t display HD.
For those who do get a DTV converter and continue to use an antenna, you will have access to many more local channels and the picture on your analog set will never look better. The converters were hard to find last summer but my recent visit to several big box retailers found many selections available for about $59.00 or less. It is not too late to get two $40 coupons from the Federal Government. Just call 888-388-2009 or go to the web www.dtv2009.gov.
A little preparation now will assure a smooth transition next February.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Just Don't Use It!
I don’t often use this column to express my personal gripes. After all, what do you care what I like or don’t like? The purpose of these weekly missives has and will continue to be to provide straight forward information about technology. Once in a while a personal gripe and some helpful technology hints come together. This is one of those times.
The proliferation of communication technologies over the past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. Cell phones are everywhere. Some would say they surface in too many places. Email is now as much a part of the daily routine for the occupant of the college dorm room as it is at the retirement community.
For many people these tools are used wisely and effectively. However, there is a small group of people who drive me nuts, not because they use the technology too much but because they don’t use it.
For sure, I think everyone has the right to refuse to use email or a cell phone. Hey, this is the USA isn’t it. I respect these people, whatever their reasons might be. In fact, I applaud those who think a hand written note or a personal visit is better than a … “How r u? I b hm @ 5. lov j” email or instant message.
My gripe is that some people will tell you that they have email or a cell phone and give you the address or number. The presumption is that if they give you this information, they actually use it. WRONG!
A minority for sure, there are people who check their email once a month at the most. Others still haven’t figured out how to retrieve voice mail from their cell phone account. Again this is their prerogative. The problem is that the person who left the email or voice mail doesn’t know this. So that invite to dinner or the movies goes unanswered. The sender is in a quandary as to whether they are being ignored or forgotten.
My suggestion is that there is no reason to feel compelled to use these technologies. No one will feel that you are less intelligent or un-American. When someone asks if you have email or a cell, just say no!
The proliferation of communication technologies over the past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. Cell phones are everywhere. Some would say they surface in too many places. Email is now as much a part of the daily routine for the occupant of the college dorm room as it is at the retirement community.
For many people these tools are used wisely and effectively. However, there is a small group of people who drive me nuts, not because they use the technology too much but because they don’t use it.
For sure, I think everyone has the right to refuse to use email or a cell phone. Hey, this is the USA isn’t it. I respect these people, whatever their reasons might be. In fact, I applaud those who think a hand written note or a personal visit is better than a … “How r u? I b hm @ 5. lov j” email or instant message.
My gripe is that some people will tell you that they have email or a cell phone and give you the address or number. The presumption is that if they give you this information, they actually use it. WRONG!
A minority for sure, there are people who check their email once a month at the most. Others still haven’t figured out how to retrieve voice mail from their cell phone account. Again this is their prerogative. The problem is that the person who left the email or voice mail doesn’t know this. So that invite to dinner or the movies goes unanswered. The sender is in a quandary as to whether they are being ignored or forgotten.
My suggestion is that there is no reason to feel compelled to use these technologies. No one will feel that you are less intelligent or un-American. When someone asks if you have email or a cell, just say no!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Blu-Ray May Be Blue Sky for Holiday Retailers
Now that the battle between the new High Definition DVD formats is over, some executives at Sony may feel they may have won the battle but are losing the war.
I wrote a year ago about the two competing HD DVD formats and how the industry may be headed for another stalemate similar to the Betamax™ vs VHS wars of the 1970s. There were large companies lining up behind each format with Apple, Panasonic and Sony in the Blu-Ray™ camp and Microsoft, Toshiba and NEC siding with HD-DVD™. The good news is that the HD-DVD™ camp threw in the towel and now only Blu-Ray™ remains. Good for the consumer.
Like many new electronic gadgets coming to market the first models of the Blu-Ray™ DVD players were expensive and only the early adopters purchased them. Manufacturers like Sony were looking to this upcoming holiday season to firmly establish the format as the new “must have” Christmas gift. They figured that with more and more households buying new high definition TV sets, it was only logical that these same households would want to see DVD programming displayed on those sets with the same clarity and wide screen impact that only a new Blu-Ray™ player could provide.
Seems that someone forgot to tell the consumer. The sales of Blu-Ray™ DVD players have been well behind projections forcing retailers to deeply discount the price as we head into the holiday shopping season. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal predicted that some stores may offer sub $150 models right after Thanksgiving.
So is this the time to buy? There is no question that the Blu-Ray™ DVD played on a large High Definition TV set is awesome. You must keep in mind however that the current pricing of Blu-Ray™ DVDs is about double of the standard DVD. So a movie could set you back more than $30. And that is without the popcorn!
Even if you have a new HD TV, you might want to consider a standard DVD player that has “up conversion.” Using “electronic magic” these machines make a standard DVD movie look more like a HD movie. These players can be found for about $100.
If you have not purchased a HD set then there is no reason to buy a Blu-Ray™ player or an up converting DVD player right now. The quality of picture from a Blu-Ray™ DVD on your standard definition TV will not be noticeably better. Save your money and wait until they drop in price so that they are displayed next to the chewing gum at the check out counter.
For those who are considering a Blu-Ray™ player you will find that the format offers much more than just better pictures and sound. Some Blu-Ray™ programming is enhanced by connecting the DVD player with the Internet and thus making the program interactive. This experience is similar to playing online or using devices like the Xbox™ or Wii™. Of course, to use these features you must have a high speed Internet connection like RoadRunner™ or Cincinnati Bell DSL.
I wrote a year ago about the two competing HD DVD formats and how the industry may be headed for another stalemate similar to the Betamax™ vs VHS wars of the 1970s. There were large companies lining up behind each format with Apple, Panasonic and Sony in the Blu-Ray™ camp and Microsoft, Toshiba and NEC siding with HD-DVD™. The good news is that the HD-DVD™ camp threw in the towel and now only Blu-Ray™ remains. Good for the consumer.
Like many new electronic gadgets coming to market the first models of the Blu-Ray™ DVD players were expensive and only the early adopters purchased them. Manufacturers like Sony were looking to this upcoming holiday season to firmly establish the format as the new “must have” Christmas gift. They figured that with more and more households buying new high definition TV sets, it was only logical that these same households would want to see DVD programming displayed on those sets with the same clarity and wide screen impact that only a new Blu-Ray™ player could provide.
Seems that someone forgot to tell the consumer. The sales of Blu-Ray™ DVD players have been well behind projections forcing retailers to deeply discount the price as we head into the holiday shopping season. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal predicted that some stores may offer sub $150 models right after Thanksgiving.
So is this the time to buy? There is no question that the Blu-Ray™ DVD played on a large High Definition TV set is awesome. You must keep in mind however that the current pricing of Blu-Ray™ DVDs is about double of the standard DVD. So a movie could set you back more than $30. And that is without the popcorn!
Even if you have a new HD TV, you might want to consider a standard DVD player that has “up conversion.” Using “electronic magic” these machines make a standard DVD movie look more like a HD movie. These players can be found for about $100.
If you have not purchased a HD set then there is no reason to buy a Blu-Ray™ player or an up converting DVD player right now. The quality of picture from a Blu-Ray™ DVD on your standard definition TV will not be noticeably better. Save your money and wait until they drop in price so that they are displayed next to the chewing gum at the check out counter.
For those who are considering a Blu-Ray™ player you will find that the format offers much more than just better pictures and sound. Some Blu-Ray™ programming is enhanced by connecting the DVD player with the Internet and thus making the program interactive. This experience is similar to playing online or using devices like the Xbox™ or Wii™. Of course, to use these features you must have a high speed Internet connection like RoadRunner™ or Cincinnati Bell DSL.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Elections In The Digital Age
Now that the elections are finally behind us, at least for a week or two before someone announces intentions for the 2012 Presidential race, I though we could reflect on the impact that modern technology has played on the process and in some cases the results. The debates and rallies of political candidates are nothing new but the universal 24/7 access to what they say and do and promise and wear and look like is nothing short of extraordinary.
In the mid 1850s when Abraham Lincoln and Steven Douglas met to debate while seeking the US Senatorial seat for Illinois, relatively few were in attendance even though the two men agreed to travel to seven communities throughout Illinois. Most voters would hear about the debates via newspaper reports. The dynamics of “how” something was said was of course missing in these reports of “what” was said. Some would say this is better since a candidate’s good looks and/or idiosyncratic mannerisms did not affect the reader’s ability to critically examine the content. The quintessential example in the more recent past is of course Richard Nixon’s eschewing the use of make up at the Kennedy / Nixon televised debates of the 1960s.
Jumping to the recent Presidential election, the landscape has radically changed. For the last three years most every thing a candidate said, wore, ate, laughed at, looked at, traveled on or through has been shared with the world. Modern communications technology has been part and parcel of this election more than any in the past.
Time was when a candidate once, off the podium, could relax, perhaps even look a bit tired while back stage. Not now. Small format video cameras and recorders are on constant vigil to capture some tidbit of “news” to feed the voracious appetite of the 24/7 news cycle. And it is not just the professional journalists and news gathering organizations that chronicle the every move the of the candidates. Watching a political rally on television, executives from Sony or Cannon must feel great about the plethora of personal video cameras in the hands of the audience. The number of those cameras pales in comparison to the number of the ubiquitous camera phones on the belts and in the purses of most everyone in the audience. It is inconceivable that any action or inaction on the part of the candidates will escape world-wide distribution on YouTube.
The campaigns themselves used new technologies and online sites to full advantage. Over and above the www.johnmcaine.com and www.barakobama.com, any candidate worth his Blackberry has a MySpace page, a FaceBook page and email lists that go on forever. The use of targeted email has resulted in millions of dollars coming into the coffers of both major candidates.
As the new President moves from running for the office of President to running the office of the President it will be interesting to see how these same technologies will be used to maintain and expand communications with the electorate.
In the mid 1850s when Abraham Lincoln and Steven Douglas met to debate while seeking the US Senatorial seat for Illinois, relatively few were in attendance even though the two men agreed to travel to seven communities throughout Illinois. Most voters would hear about the debates via newspaper reports. The dynamics of “how” something was said was of course missing in these reports of “what” was said. Some would say this is better since a candidate’s good looks and/or idiosyncratic mannerisms did not affect the reader’s ability to critically examine the content. The quintessential example in the more recent past is of course Richard Nixon’s eschewing the use of make up at the Kennedy / Nixon televised debates of the 1960s.
Jumping to the recent Presidential election, the landscape has radically changed. For the last three years most every thing a candidate said, wore, ate, laughed at, looked at, traveled on or through has been shared with the world. Modern communications technology has been part and parcel of this election more than any in the past.
Time was when a candidate once, off the podium, could relax, perhaps even look a bit tired while back stage. Not now. Small format video cameras and recorders are on constant vigil to capture some tidbit of “news” to feed the voracious appetite of the 24/7 news cycle. And it is not just the professional journalists and news gathering organizations that chronicle the every move the of the candidates. Watching a political rally on television, executives from Sony or Cannon must feel great about the plethora of personal video cameras in the hands of the audience. The number of those cameras pales in comparison to the number of the ubiquitous camera phones on the belts and in the purses of most everyone in the audience. It is inconceivable that any action or inaction on the part of the candidates will escape world-wide distribution on YouTube.
The campaigns themselves used new technologies and online sites to full advantage. Over and above the www.johnmcaine.com and www.barakobama.com, any candidate worth his Blackberry has a MySpace page, a FaceBook page and email lists that go on forever. The use of targeted email has resulted in millions of dollars coming into the coffers of both major candidates.
As the new President moves from running for the office of President to running the office of the President it will be interesting to see how these same technologies will be used to maintain and expand communications with the electorate.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Just Turn It Off!
The minister has been preaching for ten minutes and is just getting to the main point of the sermon. The actors have woven a captivating story that is just now coming to a resolution. The violinist is just getting to the most beautiful passage of the entire symphony. BEEP…BEEP…Ta…Da! A cell phone peals out of the silence.
How many times has this happened to you? A very special moment corrupted by the modern Siren’s Song of technology. More and more the desire for continuous connectivity is running up against our peace and quiet and just plain good manners.
It is almost de rigueur at business meetings and conferences to have half of the participants texting or surfing the net on their Blackberries while someone else is speaking. Some call it multitasking. Others think that their importance is magnified by their obvious need to be in constant connection. Who knows when the President of the United States might want their advice?
Not long ago doctors and public safety personnel were the only ones with pagers, and even then, many checked them at the door. Today, there are more phones in the Sunday morning church services than exist in many Third World countries.
Even outside of the church or concert hall, many fail to abide by the most basic tenants of common courtesy. While at the local Kroger store shopping at the deli counter do we really need to discuss our latest treatment for hemorrhoids with our best telephonic friend? The most intimate of details of loves lost play out in the stores and on our streets.
There are those who think that Bluetooth® technology requires them to never be out of touch. Not long ago if you were walking along a city street and passed a single pedestrian carrying on an animated conversation with themselves you may have thought that they were a “few fries short of a happy meal.” Today it is common place to see people walking along, a Borg-like earpiece protruding from one ear. The conversations can be about what to cook for dinner or some details of what they did last night on that hot date. Neither of these topics should be forced on those who just happen to be passing by.
I am a jogger and many of my running routes take me though downtown Cincinnati during the noon hour. Crossing streets, even in cross walks and with the light, can be deadly if the driver at the light is carrying on a conversation on his cell phone. I have lost count of how many times I have narrowly missed being run over by a driver with on hand on the cell phone and the other on the steering wheel. Their eyes just look right though you while they are in rapt conversation.
I am a big fan of modern technology and I think the cell phone and laptops are nothing short of marvelous. But there is a time and place for these and other technologies. Sometimes you should just turn it all off.
How many times has this happened to you? A very special moment corrupted by the modern Siren’s Song of technology. More and more the desire for continuous connectivity is running up against our peace and quiet and just plain good manners.
It is almost de rigueur at business meetings and conferences to have half of the participants texting or surfing the net on their Blackberries while someone else is speaking. Some call it multitasking. Others think that their importance is magnified by their obvious need to be in constant connection. Who knows when the President of the United States might want their advice?
Not long ago doctors and public safety personnel were the only ones with pagers, and even then, many checked them at the door. Today, there are more phones in the Sunday morning church services than exist in many Third World countries.
Even outside of the church or concert hall, many fail to abide by the most basic tenants of common courtesy. While at the local Kroger store shopping at the deli counter do we really need to discuss our latest treatment for hemorrhoids with our best telephonic friend? The most intimate of details of loves lost play out in the stores and on our streets.
There are those who think that Bluetooth® technology requires them to never be out of touch. Not long ago if you were walking along a city street and passed a single pedestrian carrying on an animated conversation with themselves you may have thought that they were a “few fries short of a happy meal.” Today it is common place to see people walking along, a Borg-like earpiece protruding from one ear. The conversations can be about what to cook for dinner or some details of what they did last night on that hot date. Neither of these topics should be forced on those who just happen to be passing by.
I am a jogger and many of my running routes take me though downtown Cincinnati during the noon hour. Crossing streets, even in cross walks and with the light, can be deadly if the driver at the light is carrying on a conversation on his cell phone. I have lost count of how many times I have narrowly missed being run over by a driver with on hand on the cell phone and the other on the steering wheel. Their eyes just look right though you while they are in rapt conversation.
I am a big fan of modern technology and I think the cell phone and laptops are nothing short of marvelous. But there is a time and place for these and other technologies. Sometimes you should just turn it all off.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
WiFi on Steroids
Last year I mentioned in one of my weekly columns that I was following the development of a new technology that could have significant impact on how and where we connect to the Internet. That technology is called WIMAX and earlier this month the first major installation began operation in parts of Baltimore, MD.
Most of us know about WiFi, a related technology for wirelessly hooking up to an Internet connection without the use of wires. Most offices and many private homes have installed WiFi connections as have many coffee shops, restaurants, hotels and libraries. You can even sit on a park bench in Garfield Park in downtown Cincinnati and answer email and surf the web wirelessly with the free WiFi connection offered there.
One big limitation of WiFi is that the “signal” can only be transmitted over very short distances, often less than a few hundred feet. So, while this technology is great if you are sitting at a table drinking coffee, it does not work while on the move in car, bus or train. Also, unlike cell phones, the WiFi cells or “spots” are very limited in coverage.
You can think of WIMAX as WiFi on steroids. The coverage area of one WIMAX cell can be measured in square miles rather than in square feet. As a result, an entire city or county can be covered by a few high powered WIMAX transmitters.
A combination of advances in technology and the recently freed up radio spectrum have made WIMAX, a technology long confined to the laboratory, a viable commercial product that should help feed our insatiable appetite for mobile computer access and advanced communication.
Now I am sure that you would agree that the prospect of commuters on I-74 answering email on their laptop while driving 70 mph on the way to work is hardly a benefit to society, if we look a bit deeper we will find several other more valuable applications.
Cars with WIMAX capability could transform the way we listen to the radio. Since most major radio stations in the US provide their programming on the Internet, these stations can now be listened to anywhere. If you want to hear Marty lament another Reds loss, you could listen to WLW 700 while driving on a Los Angeles freeway.
As more and more cars are controlled by computers, software updates could be downloaded to your car’s innards without a stop at the dealer service shop. While some of this happens now using the mobile phone network, the WIMAX bandwidth is exponentially greater than what is possible via cell phone.
For public service personnel there are some tremendously exciting possibilities. The transfer of medical information to first responders could save lives. The ability for firefighters to access databases of information about a specific building or neighborhood while en route to an emergency situation has long been a dream. It may soon be common place.
WIMAX is only one of several technologies that are coming to market that will continue to allow us to “cut the cord” and wirelessly connect to our world regardless of place and time. This is a good thing as long as we remember that we can and should periodically turn it off .
Most of us know about WiFi, a related technology for wirelessly hooking up to an Internet connection without the use of wires. Most offices and many private homes have installed WiFi connections as have many coffee shops, restaurants, hotels and libraries. You can even sit on a park bench in Garfield Park in downtown Cincinnati and answer email and surf the web wirelessly with the free WiFi connection offered there.
One big limitation of WiFi is that the “signal” can only be transmitted over very short distances, often less than a few hundred feet. So, while this technology is great if you are sitting at a table drinking coffee, it does not work while on the move in car, bus or train. Also, unlike cell phones, the WiFi cells or “spots” are very limited in coverage.
You can think of WIMAX as WiFi on steroids. The coverage area of one WIMAX cell can be measured in square miles rather than in square feet. As a result, an entire city or county can be covered by a few high powered WIMAX transmitters.
A combination of advances in technology and the recently freed up radio spectrum have made WIMAX, a technology long confined to the laboratory, a viable commercial product that should help feed our insatiable appetite for mobile computer access and advanced communication.
Now I am sure that you would agree that the prospect of commuters on I-74 answering email on their laptop while driving 70 mph on the way to work is hardly a benefit to society, if we look a bit deeper we will find several other more valuable applications.
Cars with WIMAX capability could transform the way we listen to the radio. Since most major radio stations in the US provide their programming on the Internet, these stations can now be listened to anywhere. If you want to hear Marty lament another Reds loss, you could listen to WLW 700 while driving on a Los Angeles freeway.
As more and more cars are controlled by computers, software updates could be downloaded to your car’s innards without a stop at the dealer service shop. While some of this happens now using the mobile phone network, the WIMAX bandwidth is exponentially greater than what is possible via cell phone.
For public service personnel there are some tremendously exciting possibilities. The transfer of medical information to first responders could save lives. The ability for firefighters to access databases of information about a specific building or neighborhood while en route to an emergency situation has long been a dream. It may soon be common place.
WIMAX is only one of several technologies that are coming to market that will continue to allow us to “cut the cord” and wirelessly connect to our world regardless of place and time. This is a good thing as long as we remember that we can and should periodically turn it off .
Monday, October 13, 2008
Digital Nosiness On The Rise
We have discussed often in this column the increased capacity on the part of retailers for gathering data about our individual behavior. Not only can our preferences for a certain brand of automobile and the fuel we put in it be tracked and saved, but many more personal aspects of our lives can be gathered and examined. Often we may think that this type of digital “sleuthiness” is the province of the CIA or KGB when in essence it may be just as prevalent at Ikea or IGA.
The increased use of credit cards, and more recently the various affinity cards from companies like Kroger, make the gathering of this data increasingly common. Up until recently the capacity to gather this data has outpaced the ability to analyze it and develop useful information for retailers and marketers. The explosion in computing power, the reduced cost of data storage and retrieval and the myriad of ways to collect data has ushered in a new industry of data mining. The miners don’t don hard hats and lights, rather they use advanced mathematic formulas and algorithms.
Stephen Baker in his recent book “The Numerati,” examines what a recent book reviewer calls “digital nosiness.” Baker predicts an almost exponential growth in this industry and for some, myself included, some truly scary implications.
We have all known for years that a donation or contribution to some worthy cause often prompts a deluge of other requests for financial help on the part of all stripes of non-profits. While some major non-profits do not share or sell data or lists, other do. This sort of profiling is tame compared to what is now possible and what will be possible in the very near future
For example, instead of those pesky vinyl bags dangling from your mailbox delivering the weekly specials and coupons from biggs or Kroger, you may soon have customized coupons displayed on an LCD screen mounted on the shopping cart. As you enter the store you may swipe your credit or affinity card and the system will recognize you. The system will instantaneously call up information from your purchasing history at that store and perhaps other stores. Using that data it can “suggest” items that you may be interested in purchasing.
A store can also use this information in a variety of ways. Juxtaposing your shopping data with its inventory control system the store can offer you a “great deal” on some specific items it has that it has to move. Let’s say the store knows that it has an overabundance of fresh tuna steaks that will need to be thrown away at the end of the day. It can discount that item deeply right on your cart screen and suggest a recipe for tuna steaks.
There are some more intrusive possibilities. You may be familiar with the technology that allows your car to speed through toll booths. This technology used in many major cities uses RFI cards - small cards that can transmit information to a nearby sensor. When you want to get to work during rush hour, not having to stop at the toll booth is great. That same technology can be used for other more intrusive purposes. What if your credit card or affinity card came with an RFI chip embedded? A scanner at the entrance of a store, theatre, any location could sense your entrance. “Big Brother” is watching and, now with networked computers, “Big Brother” can remember where you were and what you bought the last time you were on vacation. Don’t believe that what happens in Vegas will always stay in Vegas.
The increased use of credit cards, and more recently the various affinity cards from companies like Kroger, make the gathering of this data increasingly common. Up until recently the capacity to gather this data has outpaced the ability to analyze it and develop useful information for retailers and marketers. The explosion in computing power, the reduced cost of data storage and retrieval and the myriad of ways to collect data has ushered in a new industry of data mining. The miners don’t don hard hats and lights, rather they use advanced mathematic formulas and algorithms.
Stephen Baker in his recent book “The Numerati,” examines what a recent book reviewer calls “digital nosiness.” Baker predicts an almost exponential growth in this industry and for some, myself included, some truly scary implications.
We have all known for years that a donation or contribution to some worthy cause often prompts a deluge of other requests for financial help on the part of all stripes of non-profits. While some major non-profits do not share or sell data or lists, other do. This sort of profiling is tame compared to what is now possible and what will be possible in the very near future
For example, instead of those pesky vinyl bags dangling from your mailbox delivering the weekly specials and coupons from biggs or Kroger, you may soon have customized coupons displayed on an LCD screen mounted on the shopping cart. As you enter the store you may swipe your credit or affinity card and the system will recognize you. The system will instantaneously call up information from your purchasing history at that store and perhaps other stores. Using that data it can “suggest” items that you may be interested in purchasing.
A store can also use this information in a variety of ways. Juxtaposing your shopping data with its inventory control system the store can offer you a “great deal” on some specific items it has that it has to move. Let’s say the store knows that it has an overabundance of fresh tuna steaks that will need to be thrown away at the end of the day. It can discount that item deeply right on your cart screen and suggest a recipe for tuna steaks.
There are some more intrusive possibilities. You may be familiar with the technology that allows your car to speed through toll booths. This technology used in many major cities uses RFI cards - small cards that can transmit information to a nearby sensor. When you want to get to work during rush hour, not having to stop at the toll booth is great. That same technology can be used for other more intrusive purposes. What if your credit card or affinity card came with an RFI chip embedded? A scanner at the entrance of a store, theatre, any location could sense your entrance. “Big Brother” is watching and, now with networked computers, “Big Brother” can remember where you were and what you bought the last time you were on vacation. Don’t believe that what happens in Vegas will always stay in Vegas.
Monday, October 6, 2008
All Phone Services Can Fail
Well, it didn’t take Cincinnati Bell long to call attention to the fact that Time Warner’s Digital Phone service was more prone to failure than good old Ma Bell’s hard wired service. While both services require some sort of wire either on poles or underground, digital phone service provided by a cable company like Time Warner requires each household to have electric power in order for the system to work. While Cincinnati Bell’s service also requires electric power, the power is provided by the phone company.
What the Cincinnati Bell advertisement didn’t mention is that during the recent wind storm both services had problems with downed lines. It makes little difference if you don’t have electricity if the wire connecting you to the phone system goes down. Standard “Ma Bell” phone systems or cable delivered services can be put out of service by a big tree falling across the wires or wind felling utility poles.
Many people found out the hard way that even if they had a regular Cincinnati Bell line their phone did not work. Many of the new phones used in homes have tons of features like caller ID, call holding, integrated answering machines and more. Many of these new phones require electric power in order to work. Many of us also have cordless phones. These too need electricity to work.
If you maintain Cincinnati Bell service, it is a good idea to have at least one “old fashion” phone that has a cord which plugs into the telephone jack and requires no other source of power. You can get one for about 15 bucks at most discount stores. Sometimes simpler is better.
I heard from some readers that they lost cell service during the recent wind storm. I did not have any problem with my Verizon service but it understandable how there could have been some interruptions. Cell towers can be buffeted by the wind, and while most have back up power, these back up systems can fail. Also many of the cell towers are interconnected with line-of-sight microwave radio systems. High winds can cause the dishes to go out of alignment thus making connection to the telephone network difficult or impossible. Some cell towers use the same hard wired circuits that you use in your home. Again, if the lines are down they don’t work.
Those with cell phones found that they had no way to charge the battery. Remember, you can use your car to charge up the battery and since the chargers take so little current, you won’t harm a good car battery even if the car is not running.
Internet access is another casualty of power failures and downed wires. Even if you use Cincinnati Bells DSL service, you need to have a DSL modem in your house and that requires electricity. Same for Time Warner’s Road Runner. About the only Internet service that can work with power out is a lap top running one of the Internet services provided by the cell phone companies.
The good news is that the recent storm was a once in a 100 year phenomenon. We are fortunate that our phones, internet and TV really do work most of the time no matter if they are delivered by Ma Bell, Time Warner or though the air.
What the Cincinnati Bell advertisement didn’t mention is that during the recent wind storm both services had problems with downed lines. It makes little difference if you don’t have electricity if the wire connecting you to the phone system goes down. Standard “Ma Bell” phone systems or cable delivered services can be put out of service by a big tree falling across the wires or wind felling utility poles.
Many people found out the hard way that even if they had a regular Cincinnati Bell line their phone did not work. Many of the new phones used in homes have tons of features like caller ID, call holding, integrated answering machines and more. Many of these new phones require electric power in order to work. Many of us also have cordless phones. These too need electricity to work.
If you maintain Cincinnati Bell service, it is a good idea to have at least one “old fashion” phone that has a cord which plugs into the telephone jack and requires no other source of power. You can get one for about 15 bucks at most discount stores. Sometimes simpler is better.
I heard from some readers that they lost cell service during the recent wind storm. I did not have any problem with my Verizon service but it understandable how there could have been some interruptions. Cell towers can be buffeted by the wind, and while most have back up power, these back up systems can fail. Also many of the cell towers are interconnected with line-of-sight microwave radio systems. High winds can cause the dishes to go out of alignment thus making connection to the telephone network difficult or impossible. Some cell towers use the same hard wired circuits that you use in your home. Again, if the lines are down they don’t work.
Those with cell phones found that they had no way to charge the battery. Remember, you can use your car to charge up the battery and since the chargers take so little current, you won’t harm a good car battery even if the car is not running.
Internet access is another casualty of power failures and downed wires. Even if you use Cincinnati Bells DSL service, you need to have a DSL modem in your house and that requires electricity. Same for Time Warner’s Road Runner. About the only Internet service that can work with power out is a lap top running one of the Internet services provided by the cell phone companies.
The good news is that the recent storm was a once in a 100 year phenomenon. We are fortunate that our phones, internet and TV really do work most of the time no matter if they are delivered by Ma Bell, Time Warner or though the air.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Reflections On The Big Wind
The recent wind storm and resulting power outages are behind us but it might be a good time to prepare for the next one. Hopefully the next power outage will not be as protracted. But we will have one. Here are some observations and suggestions.
For certain, Channel 9 did the best job of providing coverage and information from the very outset of the storm. Their coverage was better than any other TV station and all the local radio stations combined. I would have expected that the station that bills itself as “BIG ONE,” WLW radio, would have provided a better service. They were late to the party and as is their custom, they used a lot of air time telling people how great they were. In the days following the storm the time was taken up taking calls from anyone and everyone who had a gripe about the power company.
Unfortunately, since most people don’t have battery operated TVs or radios that have the TV audio feature, Channel 9’s programming was not widely available during the storm and in the days following. This prompts a reminder that after Feb. 17th your battery operated TV and your radio’s TV audio feature will not work. We will discuss some options in future columns.
It sure did not take Cincinnati Bell long to run ads in the newspaper and on TV pointing out that Time Warner’s Digital Phone Service requires you to have electric power while the Cincinnati Bell service does not. Actually Cincinnati Bell provides the needed electrical power. It is true that more Cincinnati Bell phones worked during and after the storm as along as the wires were not damaged. I know that this was the case in my house.
Several people told me that they lost cell phone service. Our service from Verizon stayed on throughout the period. I am not sure why some services failed. Most services, if not all, have back up generators at each tower site. Perhaps some of the interconnecting microwave dishes got out of alignment due to the high winds.
Some had problems charging their cell phone batteries. Don’t forget that you can get inexpensive chargers that work off your car battery. They really do not draw much current so if you have a decent battery you don’t need to run the engine while charging the phone.
As for lighting, many of use found that batteries were in short supply. You might want to invest in some new LED flashlights and lanterns. These new LED models will provide much brighter light, and since they draw only a fraction of the current of their incandescent older cousins, your batteries will last much longer. You can also get mini fluorescent lanterns. These get great battery life and put out light that you can actually read by.
One last suggestion …when there is a power outage it is a good idea to disconnect appliances and systems that have compressors, motors and sensitive electronic controls. Examples are computers, TV and audio gear, heat pumps and air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers, even hot tubs. Often when power is returned it can cycle on and off or have high and low voltages for the first few seconds. Devices like the ones above do not handle these spikes and lows well. They can easily be damaged.
For certain, Channel 9 did the best job of providing coverage and information from the very outset of the storm. Their coverage was better than any other TV station and all the local radio stations combined. I would have expected that the station that bills itself as “BIG ONE,” WLW radio, would have provided a better service. They were late to the party and as is their custom, they used a lot of air time telling people how great they were. In the days following the storm the time was taken up taking calls from anyone and everyone who had a gripe about the power company.
Unfortunately, since most people don’t have battery operated TVs or radios that have the TV audio feature, Channel 9’s programming was not widely available during the storm and in the days following. This prompts a reminder that after Feb. 17th your battery operated TV and your radio’s TV audio feature will not work. We will discuss some options in future columns.
It sure did not take Cincinnati Bell long to run ads in the newspaper and on TV pointing out that Time Warner’s Digital Phone Service requires you to have electric power while the Cincinnati Bell service does not. Actually Cincinnati Bell provides the needed electrical power. It is true that more Cincinnati Bell phones worked during and after the storm as along as the wires were not damaged. I know that this was the case in my house.
Several people told me that they lost cell phone service. Our service from Verizon stayed on throughout the period. I am not sure why some services failed. Most services, if not all, have back up generators at each tower site. Perhaps some of the interconnecting microwave dishes got out of alignment due to the high winds.
Some had problems charging their cell phone batteries. Don’t forget that you can get inexpensive chargers that work off your car battery. They really do not draw much current so if you have a decent battery you don’t need to run the engine while charging the phone.
As for lighting, many of use found that batteries were in short supply. You might want to invest in some new LED flashlights and lanterns. These new LED models will provide much brighter light, and since they draw only a fraction of the current of their incandescent older cousins, your batteries will last much longer. You can also get mini fluorescent lanterns. These get great battery life and put out light that you can actually read by.
One last suggestion …when there is a power outage it is a good idea to disconnect appliances and systems that have compressors, motors and sensitive electronic controls. Examples are computers, TV and audio gear, heat pumps and air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers, even hot tubs. Often when power is returned it can cycle on and off or have high and low voltages for the first few seconds. Devices like the ones above do not handle these spikes and lows well. They can easily be damaged.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Why Does CET Not Have Backup Power?
With the spate of recent power outages you may have wondered why CET does not have back up power. The main reason is lack of funds. Unlike a radio and analog VHF TV stations, a UHF TV station like CET Channel 48, requires a tremendous amount of electrical power. When we last looked at it, a generator capable of powering our UHF analog transmitter and all the attendant air conditioning and cooling equipment at the Chickasaw Street location would cost in excess of $250,000. Since our transmitter is in Clifton and our studios are in the West End, we would need a generator at the studio as well. Again unlike radio, the equipment at the studio required to stay on the air also consumes significant electrical power … much more than we can afford.
The good news is that once we sign off the analog transmitter in February 2009 and switch to the digital transmitter, backup power may be possible. It seems that the digital transmitter requires only a fraction of the power than is needed for the analog system.
For those missing CET tonight I know this does not really help.
jack
The good news is that once we sign off the analog transmitter in February 2009 and switch to the digital transmitter, backup power may be possible. It seems that the digital transmitter requires only a fraction of the power than is needed for the analog system.
For those missing CET tonight I know this does not really help.
jack
Monday, September 22, 2008
What We Can Learn From Wilmington, NC
At the stroke on noon, Monday, September 8th, the residents on Wilmington, NC, became the first in the nation to see what it is like without TV. Well, not exactly, they were the first city in the nation to officially turn off the over-the-air analog TV broadcasting transmitters. This was part of a test conducted by the FCC to ascertain what might happen when the rest of the nation wakes up on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 to find that their analog over-the-air TV is no more.
The major TV stations in Wilmington ceased broadcasting analog signals after an extensive educational campaign. The campaign, which lasted months, urged over-the-air viewers to get ready for the switch by purchasing DTV converters, replacing old sets with new digital TVs or subscribing to a cable or satellite service. The campaign used TV and radio spots, newspaper articles, in–person presentations at churches, PTAs and other civic gatherings and even paid advertising in newspapers and magazines.
So what happened? The good news is that for most people it was a non event. Of course for those with cable or satellite services (the vast majority of TV viewers) there was no difference. For most of the over-the-air viewers, since they had heeded the warnings and prepared, it was also a non event. Nevertheless some 1500 called the hot line in the hours following the shut off. Many were confused. Others were angry that their inalienable right to watch “Wheel of Fortune” was compromised.
It is this last group that the federal government and the TV broadcasters are concerned about. This group is made up of procrastinators, those who may have trouble understanding what they need to do and a few who think that if they ignore a problem it will go away.
The phone bank reported that the two major issues among those who had purchased a DTV converter was that they waited till the last minute to connect it and for those who did connect it, the antenna that they were using was not appropriate for their location. So, they got none or only a few of the digital channels.
I know I sound like a broken record (for those who don’t know a “broken record “ refers to an old recording device using a plastic platter, that once damaged, would repeat the same section of the song over and over again) but NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR SWITCH TO DIGITAL. If you are going to use DVT converters, get your coupons ( www.dtv2009.gov ) and purchase them now. Connect them now. You will not miss any of the programs you now enjoy since they are all being simulcast on the digital channels now. In fact you will have access to several new channels with a digital converter or new digital TV set..
By changing NOW to digital you will have the chance to identify any problems. For example, you may need a different antenna or need to move your existing antenna. Around these parts it is much easier to do that up on the roof in September or October than it is in January of February. Also trying to get professional help or DTV converters on February 18th will be a hassle at best.
The major TV stations in Wilmington ceased broadcasting analog signals after an extensive educational campaign. The campaign, which lasted months, urged over-the-air viewers to get ready for the switch by purchasing DTV converters, replacing old sets with new digital TVs or subscribing to a cable or satellite service. The campaign used TV and radio spots, newspaper articles, in–person presentations at churches, PTAs and other civic gatherings and even paid advertising in newspapers and magazines.
So what happened? The good news is that for most people it was a non event. Of course for those with cable or satellite services (the vast majority of TV viewers) there was no difference. For most of the over-the-air viewers, since they had heeded the warnings and prepared, it was also a non event. Nevertheless some 1500 called the hot line in the hours following the shut off. Many were confused. Others were angry that their inalienable right to watch “Wheel of Fortune” was compromised.
It is this last group that the federal government and the TV broadcasters are concerned about. This group is made up of procrastinators, those who may have trouble understanding what they need to do and a few who think that if they ignore a problem it will go away.
The phone bank reported that the two major issues among those who had purchased a DTV converter was that they waited till the last minute to connect it and for those who did connect it, the antenna that they were using was not appropriate for their location. So, they got none or only a few of the digital channels.
I know I sound like a broken record (for those who don’t know a “broken record “ refers to an old recording device using a plastic platter, that once damaged, would repeat the same section of the song over and over again) but NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR SWITCH TO DIGITAL. If you are going to use DVT converters, get your coupons ( www.dtv2009.gov ) and purchase them now. Connect them now. You will not miss any of the programs you now enjoy since they are all being simulcast on the digital channels now. In fact you will have access to several new channels with a digital converter or new digital TV set..
By changing NOW to digital you will have the chance to identify any problems. For example, you may need a different antenna or need to move your existing antenna. Around these parts it is much easier to do that up on the roof in September or October than it is in January of February. Also trying to get professional help or DTV converters on February 18th will be a hassle at best.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Recording Digital TV Programs With Existing Equipment
Over the past few months several people have asked me how they might be able to continue to record TV programs on a VCR or PVR (Personal Video Recorder) after the analog broadcasts are shut off in February. The short answer is that if you are a cable or satellite subscriber nothing will change. You will be able to continue to record and playback just as you do now. If, on the other hand, you receive your TV channels over the air using an antenna, you will need to make some changes.
The simplest solution for over the air households is to get a video recorder that has a built in digital (ATSC) tuner. You can connect it to an antenna and to your analog TV set and record just as you do now using the controls and auto-programming features of the recorder. The least expensive of these recorders uses a DVD disc to record. There are two types of DVD discs. One type can be recorded to only once. The other can be erased just like a VHS tape and reused. Be sure that the DVD recorder you buy can record to both types of discs. I have seen several models that will work just fine with prices beginning at $170.00. Also your analog TV must have input jacks for either S-Video or composite video signals. You should not use the antenna input on your TV for this set up.
For those who choose to use a Set Top DTV Converter, it gets a bit more complicated. You can use your analog VHS VCR or DVD recorder with your DTV converter. Connect the antenna to the DTV converter and connect the DTV converter to the analog TV. You can use either the composite video input or the antenna input on the TV. The composite video input is best.
While this is the least expensive option, there is one big drawback. You can not use the auto-programming features on the VCR. You can set the VCR to record a program in the future by setting the day and time. You cannot auto-program a channel change.
So if you decide to record a program on Channel 48 on Monday evening and you want to set the system to record the program before you go to work on Monday morning you will need to set the video recorder’s timer to the time the program begins. This is the same process that you do now. However, instead of programming the channel on the video recorder to Channel 48 it needs to be set to “line” or “video” input if that is the connection between the DTV Converter and the video recorder or set to Channel #3. Channel 3 is the channel that the video recorder uses to receive the signal from the DTV Converter. Finally, you need to make sure that the DTV Converter is turned on and set to Channel 48. As you can see this is a bit of a hassle and does not allow you to record several programs from different channels without manually changing the channel on the DTV Converter.
As more and more of us get digital sets and analog equipment is phased out, things will get a bit simpler.
The simplest solution for over the air households is to get a video recorder that has a built in digital (ATSC) tuner. You can connect it to an antenna and to your analog TV set and record just as you do now using the controls and auto-programming features of the recorder. The least expensive of these recorders uses a DVD disc to record. There are two types of DVD discs. One type can be recorded to only once. The other can be erased just like a VHS tape and reused. Be sure that the DVD recorder you buy can record to both types of discs. I have seen several models that will work just fine with prices beginning at $170.00. Also your analog TV must have input jacks for either S-Video or composite video signals. You should not use the antenna input on your TV for this set up.
For those who choose to use a Set Top DTV Converter, it gets a bit more complicated. You can use your analog VHS VCR or DVD recorder with your DTV converter. Connect the antenna to the DTV converter and connect the DTV converter to the analog TV. You can use either the composite video input or the antenna input on the TV. The composite video input is best.
While this is the least expensive option, there is one big drawback. You can not use the auto-programming features on the VCR. You can set the VCR to record a program in the future by setting the day and time. You cannot auto-program a channel change.
So if you decide to record a program on Channel 48 on Monday evening and you want to set the system to record the program before you go to work on Monday morning you will need to set the video recorder’s timer to the time the program begins. This is the same process that you do now. However, instead of programming the channel on the video recorder to Channel 48 it needs to be set to “line” or “video” input if that is the connection between the DTV Converter and the video recorder or set to Channel #3. Channel 3 is the channel that the video recorder uses to receive the signal from the DTV Converter. Finally, you need to make sure that the DTV Converter is turned on and set to Channel 48. As you can see this is a bit of a hassle and does not allow you to record several programs from different channels without manually changing the channel on the DTV Converter.
As more and more of us get digital sets and analog equipment is phased out, things will get a bit simpler.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Choosing the Right Storage Medium
Last week I reviewed the various portable hard drives that are now widely available. These drives can store the entire contents of your home or office computer. As discussed, these new USB drives are essentially the same as the hard drives you have had in your computer for decades. The big difference is that they have higher capacity and are designed to be portable. They can handle rough treatment and plug easily into the USB port of most any modern PC or Mac computer.
That column prompted some questions about the other types of storage media. How do they differ from hard drives? What applications are suited for the various types?
There are three basic types of data storage devices that you might use at the office, at school or at home. There are those that store data on a disc or platter using magnetism. Another type stores data on a disc using an optical system. Finally there are those that use Flash Memory.
Perhaps the most basic type of storage is the floppy disc, a magnetic media. Once the most ubiquitous of all media, it has almost disappeared from the market. In fact, you must special order a floppy drive in any new computer and most likely in the very near future this will no longer be possible. The floppy uses a plastic disc that is coated with iron oxide (i.e., rust.) Data are stored on the disc using a magnetic read / write head. The 3.5 inch floppy only holds about 1.4 mb. of data. This was plenty of room if you were storing your school book report. If you want to save copies of digital pictures, the floppy doesn’t cut it. You can hardly fit one high quality digital picture on a single floppy.
My suggestion is that if you have a box of floppies sitting on your desk, you may wish to see what is stored on them and save any valuable content to another type of media. For those of you who might still have data stored on a 5.25 inch floppy, you may need to go on eBay to find a drive.
Most of us are familiar with optical discs. First there were CDs, and now DVDs. These media use a laser to read and write to the surface of the disc. There are two types of CD discs. One type, a CD-R, allows you to write the data only once and read many times. This is an excellent choice for archiving files. There are others, dubbed CD-R/W. These can be used like a hard drive allowing you to erase unwanted files.
Most of us are familiar with DVD video discs. There are also DVD data discs that work much like a CD. The big difference is the capacity. A standard CD data disc can store about 700 mb., while a DVD data disc can hold more than 8 gig. Before running out and buying DVD discs for data storage be sure that your computer can handle them. Many will play a DVD video disc, but cannot read or write to a DVD data disc.
Finally, there are Flash Memory based storage options. The most popular is the SD Card. These small cards are commonly found in cameras and some audio players. They can hold a tremendous about of data. Once very expensive, these postage stamp sized cards can hold several gigabytes of information and are very reasonably priced . One negative is that they are so small they are easily misplaced. Akin to these SD cards are the Memory Sticks that seem to be everywhere. They operate much the same as the SD cards but do not require a SD slot or “drive” in your computer. Rather they plug into the USB port of your computer or device. They are great for sharing files between machines. Many in business use them to store meeting presentations. They can fit in your pocket and hold very large files. Since most computers have a USB port, data is easily retrieved.
The good news is that prices for file storage media continue to fall. The bad news is that the media keep changing and just like it is hard to find a player for your Betamax tape, a few years from now we will be searching for a drive that will play a CD.
That column prompted some questions about the other types of storage media. How do they differ from hard drives? What applications are suited for the various types?
There are three basic types of data storage devices that you might use at the office, at school or at home. There are those that store data on a disc or platter using magnetism. Another type stores data on a disc using an optical system. Finally there are those that use Flash Memory.
Perhaps the most basic type of storage is the floppy disc, a magnetic media. Once the most ubiquitous of all media, it has almost disappeared from the market. In fact, you must special order a floppy drive in any new computer and most likely in the very near future this will no longer be possible. The floppy uses a plastic disc that is coated with iron oxide (i.e., rust.) Data are stored on the disc using a magnetic read / write head. The 3.5 inch floppy only holds about 1.4 mb. of data. This was plenty of room if you were storing your school book report. If you want to save copies of digital pictures, the floppy doesn’t cut it. You can hardly fit one high quality digital picture on a single floppy.
My suggestion is that if you have a box of floppies sitting on your desk, you may wish to see what is stored on them and save any valuable content to another type of media. For those of you who might still have data stored on a 5.25 inch floppy, you may need to go on eBay to find a drive.
Most of us are familiar with optical discs. First there were CDs, and now DVDs. These media use a laser to read and write to the surface of the disc. There are two types of CD discs. One type, a CD-R, allows you to write the data only once and read many times. This is an excellent choice for archiving files. There are others, dubbed CD-R/W. These can be used like a hard drive allowing you to erase unwanted files.
Most of us are familiar with DVD video discs. There are also DVD data discs that work much like a CD. The big difference is the capacity. A standard CD data disc can store about 700 mb., while a DVD data disc can hold more than 8 gig. Before running out and buying DVD discs for data storage be sure that your computer can handle them. Many will play a DVD video disc, but cannot read or write to a DVD data disc.
Finally, there are Flash Memory based storage options. The most popular is the SD Card. These small cards are commonly found in cameras and some audio players. They can hold a tremendous about of data. Once very expensive, these postage stamp sized cards can hold several gigabytes of information and are very reasonably priced . One negative is that they are so small they are easily misplaced. Akin to these SD cards are the Memory Sticks that seem to be everywhere. They operate much the same as the SD cards but do not require a SD slot or “drive” in your computer. Rather they plug into the USB port of your computer or device. They are great for sharing files between machines. Many in business use them to store meeting presentations. They can fit in your pocket and hold very large files. Since most computers have a USB port, data is easily retrieved.
The good news is that prices for file storage media continue to fall. The bad news is that the media keep changing and just like it is hard to find a player for your Betamax tape, a few years from now we will be searching for a drive that will play a CD.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
A Place To Keep All Your Stuff
We Americans seem to have an insatiable appetite for collecting stuff. A casual drive around most any community will reveal a number of different places to keep stuff. Once a sign of luxury, many new homes now have three car garages and perhaps even another unattached out building for keeping stuff. In Harrison alone there are several self storage businesses with room for an RV or just a few boxes of Christmas decorations. How many of your neighbors find it necessary to park their cars in the driveway since their garages are full of stuff?
Well, this proclivity to accumulate stuff has definitely found its way into the digital environment. Not too many years ago most home computer users could keep all the digital stuff on a few floppy disks. Those days are no more.
Even a modest user of a home computer today can accumulate tons of digital “stuff .” Unlike text documents, photographs, audio, music and video files are very large. A single color photograph, when converted to bits and bytes, will not fit on a single floppy disk. That same floppy could have stored a year’s worth of data just ten years ago.
Many of us use several computers in the course of a single day. We may have one at home, use a lap top when traveling and have one or more at the office. With that may “electronic desks” it has become more and more difficult to have access to all the computer files we need…our digital stuff.
There is a new breed of hard drive storage devices on the market which allow very large capacity, portability, security and reliability. Unlike hard drives of the past which failed if you looked at them cross eyed, these drives can be put in your brief case or school bag and be connected to most any computer you choose (PC or Mac) via the USB connection.
There are several manufacturers and a variety of sizes and capacities available. While 500 Gb drive should be more than enough for most of us, if you are a power user or collect lots of videos or movies, a 1 Tb (terabyte) drive might be for you.
A good example of an inexpensive portable drive is one from Iomega. They have a Silver Series 500 Gb drive that retails for about $130. It is about the size of a paperback book and comes loaded with some neat software that will help you use it to back up the data on your desktop computer.
Another leading drive maker, Maxtor, has a drive about the size of a pack of 3” x 5” index cards. It literally can fit in your pocket and it can hold 250 Gb. It is perfect for most home applications. It makes a great back pack accessory for the collegiate set going back to campus this September.
You should see even higher capacity storage devices on the market soon as miniaturization technologies continue to develop. Unlike many sectors of our economy, this one provides better products with more features at decreasing prices.
Well, this proclivity to accumulate stuff has definitely found its way into the digital environment. Not too many years ago most home computer users could keep all the digital stuff on a few floppy disks. Those days are no more.
Even a modest user of a home computer today can accumulate tons of digital “stuff .” Unlike text documents, photographs, audio, music and video files are very large. A single color photograph, when converted to bits and bytes, will not fit on a single floppy disk. That same floppy could have stored a year’s worth of data just ten years ago.
Many of us use several computers in the course of a single day. We may have one at home, use a lap top when traveling and have one or more at the office. With that may “electronic desks” it has become more and more difficult to have access to all the computer files we need…our digital stuff.
There is a new breed of hard drive storage devices on the market which allow very large capacity, portability, security and reliability. Unlike hard drives of the past which failed if you looked at them cross eyed, these drives can be put in your brief case or school bag and be connected to most any computer you choose (PC or Mac) via the USB connection.
There are several manufacturers and a variety of sizes and capacities available. While 500 Gb drive should be more than enough for most of us, if you are a power user or collect lots of videos or movies, a 1 Tb (terabyte) drive might be for you.
A good example of an inexpensive portable drive is one from Iomega. They have a Silver Series 500 Gb drive that retails for about $130. It is about the size of a paperback book and comes loaded with some neat software that will help you use it to back up the data on your desktop computer.
Another leading drive maker, Maxtor, has a drive about the size of a pack of 3” x 5” index cards. It literally can fit in your pocket and it can hold 250 Gb. It is perfect for most home applications. It makes a great back pack accessory for the collegiate set going back to campus this September.
You should see even higher capacity storage devices on the market soon as miniaturization technologies continue to develop. Unlike many sectors of our economy, this one provides better products with more features at decreasing prices.
Monday, August 25, 2008
You Don't Need To Spend A Fortune For A Digital TV
Three of the most prevalent misconceptions about digital TV is that all digital TVs are high definition, large and expensive. None of these statements are correct. Sure, the newspaper flyers and TV commercials are want to show large flat screen TVs the size of city buses with more features then a Swiss Army knife. After all, the mark up on a $2000 TV is much greater than the profit on a $120 TV.
Currently in most homes you will find several TVs of all “flavors.” Some are large screen models in a family room or a home theatre environment. Others are tucked under cabinets in the kitchen or on a table in the bedroom or workshop. There is no reason to believe that this will change once we convert to all digital broadcasting. For sure you may want a large screen TV on which you can watch sporting events or movies with surround sound audio and high definition clarity. For that set up you will pay thousands of dollars. At the same time, if you are in the kitchen watching the evening news or playing along the current “Jeopardy” champ, a smaller TV will do just fine.
I have found new digital TVs in stores for a little as $114. WalMart has a digital set retailing for $129. As the we get closer to the analog shut off date in February, you are certain to see even more small TVs with digital tuners. These may be LCD or small picture tube models. Some will have wide screens some will have a 4 x 3 screen ratio. The important thing is they all will have digital tuners. In fact, for more than one year, it has been against the law to sell a new TV that did not have a digital tuner unless you had a very prominent label indicating that the TV will be obsolete in February 2009.
You may wish to keep this in mind as you decide whether to buy a set top digital converter. If you are planning to connect it to a 10 year old 13” TV that you use in the kitchen, it might be better to just buy a new inexpensive TV.
I have received several letters about battery powered digital TVs. There are some on the market but they are very expensive. I suggest that you wait. They will eventually be in stores after the analog cut off.
Currently in most homes you will find several TVs of all “flavors.” Some are large screen models in a family room or a home theatre environment. Others are tucked under cabinets in the kitchen or on a table in the bedroom or workshop. There is no reason to believe that this will change once we convert to all digital broadcasting. For sure you may want a large screen TV on which you can watch sporting events or movies with surround sound audio and high definition clarity. For that set up you will pay thousands of dollars. At the same time, if you are in the kitchen watching the evening news or playing along the current “Jeopardy” champ, a smaller TV will do just fine.
I have found new digital TVs in stores for a little as $114. WalMart has a digital set retailing for $129. As the we get closer to the analog shut off date in February, you are certain to see even more small TVs with digital tuners. These may be LCD or small picture tube models. Some will have wide screens some will have a 4 x 3 screen ratio. The important thing is they all will have digital tuners. In fact, for more than one year, it has been against the law to sell a new TV that did not have a digital tuner unless you had a very prominent label indicating that the TV will be obsolete in February 2009.
You may wish to keep this in mind as you decide whether to buy a set top digital converter. If you are planning to connect it to a 10 year old 13” TV that you use in the kitchen, it might be better to just buy a new inexpensive TV.
I have received several letters about battery powered digital TVs. There are some on the market but they are very expensive. I suggest that you wait. They will eventually be in stores after the analog cut off.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Great Video In A Small Package
If you are a regular reader you know that I often take designers and engineers to task for overloading electronic devices with so many features that the average intelligent person is unable to actually use them. Recently, as I was getting ready for a long bicycle trip, I looked for a video camera that would record good quality video and be very compact and light weight. When you are biking upwards of 100 miles in a day, every ounce of cargo is scrutinized.
While I had read about the “Flip™” camera from PureDigital Technologies®, I had discounted it as a toy. Since it was retailing for about $150, how good could it be? Well I was wrong. The “Flip™” video camera sets the bar very high for anyone designing a device that is simple to use, compact in size and provides superior video quality.
The camera itself is about the size of a large cell phone measuring 2”x 4”x ¾”. It weighs only a few ounces and will easily fit in your pocket or purse. From this small package comes a plethora of features. It has a small LCD screen that serves as the viewfinder and playback window. It has a fixed lens with digital zoom. (Don’t bother to use the digital zoom as it makes the video look bad.) The camera runs on two AA batteries and gets almost four hours of recording or play back time for each set of batteries.
What impresses me most are the controls, or lack thereof. The camera has an on/off button and only a few other controls. There is a large red button. Push it once and you are recording. Push it again and it stops and saves the video. The only other controls are a volume control, an erase control and a playback control. All the video settings are automatic. The color and picture sharpness are as good or better than cameras selling at five times the price. Audio record volume is automatic.
You can watch the videos on the internal screen or connect the camera to a TV or a PC. Again no settings, just plug and play.
The camera has a fold out USB connector. Using that connector you plug the camera into a computer and the camera automatically downloads special software that allows you to watch and edit your videos on your PC or Mac computer. You can ignore that software and the camera becomes an external hard drive. You can access it and copy any or all the videos into your computer and use programs like Microsoft Movie Maker™ to edit your videos.
The camera works out of the box and comes with everything you need. There are no tapes or memory cards. The video is stored in the camera on the 2 gig internal storage device and will hold one hour of high quality video. It does take some time to get used to holding the camera steady since it is so light. I made a sample of the video. Click here to watch it. I recorded the video recently using the Flip Camera while riding on the Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Bike Trail.
If you are in the market for an easy to use quality video camera for vacations or family events, you can’t go wrong with the Flip. You will find it a major electronics retailers.
While I had read about the “Flip™” camera from PureDigital Technologies®, I had discounted it as a toy. Since it was retailing for about $150, how good could it be? Well I was wrong. The “Flip™” video camera sets the bar very high for anyone designing a device that is simple to use, compact in size and provides superior video quality.
The camera itself is about the size of a large cell phone measuring 2”x 4”x ¾”. It weighs only a few ounces and will easily fit in your pocket or purse. From this small package comes a plethora of features. It has a small LCD screen that serves as the viewfinder and playback window. It has a fixed lens with digital zoom. (Don’t bother to use the digital zoom as it makes the video look bad.) The camera runs on two AA batteries and gets almost four hours of recording or play back time for each set of batteries.
What impresses me most are the controls, or lack thereof. The camera has an on/off button and only a few other controls. There is a large red button. Push it once and you are recording. Push it again and it stops and saves the video. The only other controls are a volume control, an erase control and a playback control. All the video settings are automatic. The color and picture sharpness are as good or better than cameras selling at five times the price. Audio record volume is automatic.
You can watch the videos on the internal screen or connect the camera to a TV or a PC. Again no settings, just plug and play.
The camera has a fold out USB connector. Using that connector you plug the camera into a computer and the camera automatically downloads special software that allows you to watch and edit your videos on your PC or Mac computer. You can ignore that software and the camera becomes an external hard drive. You can access it and copy any or all the videos into your computer and use programs like Microsoft Movie Maker™ to edit your videos.
The camera works out of the box and comes with everything you need. There are no tapes or memory cards. The video is stored in the camera on the 2 gig internal storage device and will hold one hour of high quality video. It does take some time to get used to holding the camera steady since it is so light. I made a sample of the video. Click here to watch it. I recorded the video recently using the Flip Camera while riding on the Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Bike Trail.
If you are in the market for an easy to use quality video camera for vacations or family events, you can’t go wrong with the Flip. You will find it a major electronics retailers.
Monday, August 11, 2008
More About Inexpensive Video Cameras
Last week we discussed the various types of video cameras based on how they actually store the video, i.e. tape, hard drive, DVD, etc. This week we will look at some features that you might wish to consider when choosing a new camera.
One of the most important parts of any camera is the lens. After all, this is the eye of the camera. The better it can “see” the better the final video will be. There have been some great advances in optics and as a result, even a low end camera costing around $200 can have a very good lens. For sure you will want a lens that can zoom in on objects from a distance. This is where marketing hype can be confusing. There are two types of zoom lenses, optical zoom and digital zoom.
My advice, forget about digital zoom and concentrate only on the optical zoom. Digital zoom is a digital “slight of hand” trick. The results are most often grainy since it just makes the picture larger. Optical zoom provides the best results in most situations. So when comparing zoom ratios, discount the digital zoom numbers which are very often over stated.
The view finder is another feature to compare. I suggest that while the fold-out LCD screen is a great, there are sometimes when a regular view finder is better. In bright light situations, you can often see better by looking though a traditional viewfinder than trying to frame the shot with the LCD screen. Also, it is easier to hold the camera steady if it is held close to your body. Using the fold out LCD screen does not allow that.
Be sure to ask about battery life. Nothing is more frustrating than running low on battery power just when you are ready to get that perfect shot. Most new cameras will give about one hour of use. Indoors, you can often use regular AC power. Make sure the camera is set up to run on regular AC power. If you are going to be out in the field, it is good to have one or two spare batteries all charged up and ready to go. The good news is that modern rechargeable batteries hold their charge for long periods of time and can be recharged anytime. They don’t have to be completely drained to recharge properly.
Simple is often better. Engineers continue to build into cameras features that many of us mere mortals will never use. These features make the controls harder to use and often make using the camera a chore. Spend some time with the camera before you buy it to be sure that you are comfortable with the controls. When you are trying to get that perfect shot you don’t want to wade through a 100 page manual looking for directions. Sometimes simple is better.
I recently purchase a small video “Flip” camera to take on a long distance bike ride. Next week I will review the “Flip” camera. It is an impressively easy to use device.
One of the most important parts of any camera is the lens. After all, this is the eye of the camera. The better it can “see” the better the final video will be. There have been some great advances in optics and as a result, even a low end camera costing around $200 can have a very good lens. For sure you will want a lens that can zoom in on objects from a distance. This is where marketing hype can be confusing. There are two types of zoom lenses, optical zoom and digital zoom.
My advice, forget about digital zoom and concentrate only on the optical zoom. Digital zoom is a digital “slight of hand” trick. The results are most often grainy since it just makes the picture larger. Optical zoom provides the best results in most situations. So when comparing zoom ratios, discount the digital zoom numbers which are very often over stated.
The view finder is another feature to compare. I suggest that while the fold-out LCD screen is a great, there are sometimes when a regular view finder is better. In bright light situations, you can often see better by looking though a traditional viewfinder than trying to frame the shot with the LCD screen. Also, it is easier to hold the camera steady if it is held close to your body. Using the fold out LCD screen does not allow that.
Be sure to ask about battery life. Nothing is more frustrating than running low on battery power just when you are ready to get that perfect shot. Most new cameras will give about one hour of use. Indoors, you can often use regular AC power. Make sure the camera is set up to run on regular AC power. If you are going to be out in the field, it is good to have one or two spare batteries all charged up and ready to go. The good news is that modern rechargeable batteries hold their charge for long periods of time and can be recharged anytime. They don’t have to be completely drained to recharge properly.
Simple is often better. Engineers continue to build into cameras features that many of us mere mortals will never use. These features make the controls harder to use and often make using the camera a chore. Spend some time with the camera before you buy it to be sure that you are comfortable with the controls. When you are trying to get that perfect shot you don’t want to wade through a 100 page manual looking for directions. Sometimes simple is better.
I recently purchase a small video “Flip” camera to take on a long distance bike ride. Next week I will review the “Flip” camera. It is an impressively easy to use device.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Video Cameras Getting Better and Less Expensive
Since I work for a TV station I have never been a real fan of consumer quality video cameras and editing systems. Since they first became available in the 80s, I’ve always found the quality of the final product to be lacking. Even well into the 90s the cameras were not very good. Because at work I was always surrounded by high end, and high priced cameras that provided great video, I was spoiled. Even the best of the consumer grade cameras left me unimpressed.
This has changed big time. The current models aimed at the consumer market are nothing less than amazing. They are small, easy to use, and more important; they will render very high quality pictures and sound. There are some models that will come close to recording video as good as we use in the broadcast industry. Many are able to record high definition video. And good news, prices have dropped.
These video cameras come in many “flavors” each with a host of features and capabilities. This week and next I will try to provide some pointers on what each type offers so you can compare what you need with what is available.
Let’s start with the recording media itself. In other words how does the camera store the video that you are shooting. There are four basic types. Each type has pros and cons.
Many of the most popular cameras are still tape based. Many use DV tapes. These inexpensive digital tapes are smaller than the older analog 8mm or Hi 8 format tapes and much smaller than the “ancient” VHS tapes. Unlike the former, DV tapes store the video images in digital form. This allows for very high quality images and sound. The tapes do require a motorized system and as a result these cameras consume a bit more electricity than some of the others. This results in shorter battery life. Also there are many mechanical systems and many moving parts in the tape transport mechanism. This can be prone to damage from dirt and sand.
A newer technology is based on DVD storage. Although smaller in size than your regular 4.5 inch DVD, the technology is about the same. The images are stored in digital form on a mini DVD disc and can be played out from the camera or imported into your computer for editing. Again, the DVD drive uses an electric motor but it consumes less energy than the tape based cameras. While the disc reading mechanism has some moving parts, it is much less complex than the tape based systems. You can easily transfer the videos to a computer for editing or play them on a DVD player
The third type of storage is based on “hard drive” technology. Just like the hard drive in your computer or some MP3 players, the images and sound are stored on computer disc. Unlike the hard drive in your computer, these are sealed mechanisms and specially designed for rough handling. They are a permanent part of the camera, so when you have filled it up, you need to transfer the video files to another media before shooting more.
Finally there are cameras that use flash memory. There are no moving parts as the video is recorded onto memory cards just like many digital still cameras. When the card is full you replace it with another. The cards can be inserted into a PC or MAC and you can transfer the video for playback or editing. There are very few moving parts and power consumption is low.
More next week about lens optics and controls
This has changed big time. The current models aimed at the consumer market are nothing less than amazing. They are small, easy to use, and more important; they will render very high quality pictures and sound. There are some models that will come close to recording video as good as we use in the broadcast industry. Many are able to record high definition video. And good news, prices have dropped.
These video cameras come in many “flavors” each with a host of features and capabilities. This week and next I will try to provide some pointers on what each type offers so you can compare what you need with what is available.
Let’s start with the recording media itself. In other words how does the camera store the video that you are shooting. There are four basic types. Each type has pros and cons.
Many of the most popular cameras are still tape based. Many use DV tapes. These inexpensive digital tapes are smaller than the older analog 8mm or Hi 8 format tapes and much smaller than the “ancient” VHS tapes. Unlike the former, DV tapes store the video images in digital form. This allows for very high quality images and sound. The tapes do require a motorized system and as a result these cameras consume a bit more electricity than some of the others. This results in shorter battery life. Also there are many mechanical systems and many moving parts in the tape transport mechanism. This can be prone to damage from dirt and sand.
A newer technology is based on DVD storage. Although smaller in size than your regular 4.5 inch DVD, the technology is about the same. The images are stored in digital form on a mini DVD disc and can be played out from the camera or imported into your computer for editing. Again, the DVD drive uses an electric motor but it consumes less energy than the tape based cameras. While the disc reading mechanism has some moving parts, it is much less complex than the tape based systems. You can easily transfer the videos to a computer for editing or play them on a DVD player
The third type of storage is based on “hard drive” technology. Just like the hard drive in your computer or some MP3 players, the images and sound are stored on computer disc. Unlike the hard drive in your computer, these are sealed mechanisms and specially designed for rough handling. They are a permanent part of the camera, so when you have filled it up, you need to transfer the video files to another media before shooting more.
Finally there are cameras that use flash memory. There are no moving parts as the video is recorded onto memory cards just like many digital still cameras. When the card is full you replace it with another. The cards can be inserted into a PC or MAC and you can transfer the video for playback or editing. There are very few moving parts and power consumption is low.
More next week about lens optics and controls
Friday, August 1, 2008
It's Getting Crowded on the Info Super Highway
The Internet Super Highway is becoming more like I-75 at rush hour than the Autobahn on a clear sunny day. As more and more of us graduate from using the Internet for simple email exchange and occasional Google® searches to downloading music, TV programs, and even full length movies in high definition, the Internet connections serving our neighborhood as well as the more robust Internet backbone itself are showing signs of congestion.
Email files consume very little “space” on the Internet as the number of bits and bytes being sent or received is miniscule. More important is that email messages do not need to be sent all at once. Even though you may think that all your precious words are sent in one email “envelope,” in reality even the shortest email message is broken up into tiny packets. Each packet travels separately and is reconnected with all the others once they all reach the final destination. Since this all happens at the speed of light you most likely haven’t noticed nor should you care that you email is being dissected.
On the other hand, music or video require very large files. A file containing one minute of good quality video is equivalent to a file containing hundreds or even thousands of emails. If you want to watch these videos on line in real time rather than downloading them and watching at another time, the Internet circuits are taxed even more.
This phenomenon is not lost on the major providers of Internet services, or ISPs as they are called. Comcast and Time Warner have been experimenting with several options. One idea is to charge each user based on their actual use. Currently most of us pay a set monthly charge based on the speed of the connection. We pay the same no matter if we send ten emails a month or if we are on line 24/7 watching videos and downloading music.
Much more controversial is the practice of some ISPs to actually block some online services that use a great deal of bandwidth. Recently Kevin Martin, FCC Chairman, warned Comcast to cease its practice of limiting access to some Comcast Internet subscribers to BitTorrent®, a video sharing service that is a very dependent on free access to the Internet.
Many of the large ISPs and networking organizations have experienced tremendous growth and customer demand. It was recently reported by AT&T, one of the largest broadband services, that traffic on the AT&T network has doubled over the past two years and is on a trajectory of doubling again within less than two years.
In the future your access to the Internet may well be metered like other “utilities.” Those who use more of the bandwidth, especially in peak hours will be charged more than the occasional email user. With more and more of use relying on the Internet for bill paying, banking and shopping, the Internet may become more of a toll road than a freeway.
Email files consume very little “space” on the Internet as the number of bits and bytes being sent or received is miniscule. More important is that email messages do not need to be sent all at once. Even though you may think that all your precious words are sent in one email “envelope,” in reality even the shortest email message is broken up into tiny packets. Each packet travels separately and is reconnected with all the others once they all reach the final destination. Since this all happens at the speed of light you most likely haven’t noticed nor should you care that you email is being dissected.
On the other hand, music or video require very large files. A file containing one minute of good quality video is equivalent to a file containing hundreds or even thousands of emails. If you want to watch these videos on line in real time rather than downloading them and watching at another time, the Internet circuits are taxed even more.
This phenomenon is not lost on the major providers of Internet services, or ISPs as they are called. Comcast and Time Warner have been experimenting with several options. One idea is to charge each user based on their actual use. Currently most of us pay a set monthly charge based on the speed of the connection. We pay the same no matter if we send ten emails a month or if we are on line 24/7 watching videos and downloading music.
Much more controversial is the practice of some ISPs to actually block some online services that use a great deal of bandwidth. Recently Kevin Martin, FCC Chairman, warned Comcast to cease its practice of limiting access to some Comcast Internet subscribers to BitTorrent®, a video sharing service that is a very dependent on free access to the Internet.
Many of the large ISPs and networking organizations have experienced tremendous growth and customer demand. It was recently reported by AT&T, one of the largest broadband services, that traffic on the AT&T network has doubled over the past two years and is on a trajectory of doubling again within less than two years.
In the future your access to the Internet may well be metered like other “utilities.” Those who use more of the bandwidth, especially in peak hours will be charged more than the occasional email user. With more and more of use relying on the Internet for bill paying, banking and shopping, the Internet may become more of a toll road than a freeway.
Monday, July 28, 2008
On the Internet, everybody knows you're a dog.
In July 1993 the New Yorker Magazine published a cartoon by Peter Steiner showing a dog sitting in front of a computer. The caption read, “On the Internet, nobody knows you're a dog." Oh the changes that fourteen years can make. Today, not only will they know you are a dog, they will know the color of your spots, the length of you coat and the brand of dog food you like.
Among the myriad benefits of the Internet, personal privacy remains a serious issue that has garnered much attention of late. Most recently Google® has been in the news as it has been ordered by the US courts to hand over data that contains information from every clip ever played on its popular YouTube® video sharing website. It has been reported that the data file, which has more than 12 terabytes of information, contains the IP address and viewers’ ID.
What this means is if you ever watched a video on YouTube®, that video and your identity may be able to be matched. Most likely not a problem if you were watching singing cats and dogs, perhaps problematic if you were just curious if there really was a video on how to make a nuclear bomb.
There are so many examples of how various companies and organizations both real and virtual gather, store and use information about you. Once you make your first purchase on Amazon.com®, the next time you log on you will be greeted with list of suggested books and other items. This list is developed specifically for you based on previous purchases and in some cases even casual browsing. This can be a great asset when you are looking for new books that you may have missed within a category of interest. It can also funny when you are presented with a list of pre-school classics because the last time you were on Amazon.com® you bought a gift for your grandson.
It is not only online that information about you is gathered. The discount cards that are promoted by Kroger and other grocery outlets help the company track your individual buying habits. Each item you purchase can be tracked if you use the bar coded plastic card when you check out. This way the store can target what coupons they may wish to send to you in the mail.
It is no coincidence that if you were recently online looking at convertibles that your US mail box and your email box will all of a sudden have several advertisements for new convertibles from variuous automakers..
So much of our personal information is available. Typing your phone number into the Google® serach box will most often give your address. The Hamilton County Auditor’s website http://www.hamiltoncountyauditor.org/ has information about your home, property taxes, improvements and even contains a recent photograph and block diagram of your house.
There is not much we can do to protect our personal information from being collected if we are going to continue to enjoy the benefits of modern technology. We can however insist that the use of this information is scrutinized by our leaders and that our right to privacy is protected.
Among the myriad benefits of the Internet, personal privacy remains a serious issue that has garnered much attention of late. Most recently Google® has been in the news as it has been ordered by the US courts to hand over data that contains information from every clip ever played on its popular YouTube® video sharing website. It has been reported that the data file, which has more than 12 terabytes of information, contains the IP address and viewers’ ID.
What this means is if you ever watched a video on YouTube®, that video and your identity may be able to be matched. Most likely not a problem if you were watching singing cats and dogs, perhaps problematic if you were just curious if there really was a video on how to make a nuclear bomb.
There are so many examples of how various companies and organizations both real and virtual gather, store and use information about you. Once you make your first purchase on Amazon.com®, the next time you log on you will be greeted with list of suggested books and other items. This list is developed specifically for you based on previous purchases and in some cases even casual browsing. This can be a great asset when you are looking for new books that you may have missed within a category of interest. It can also funny when you are presented with a list of pre-school classics because the last time you were on Amazon.com® you bought a gift for your grandson.
It is not only online that information about you is gathered. The discount cards that are promoted by Kroger and other grocery outlets help the company track your individual buying habits. Each item you purchase can be tracked if you use the bar coded plastic card when you check out. This way the store can target what coupons they may wish to send to you in the mail.
It is no coincidence that if you were recently online looking at convertibles that your US mail box and your email box will all of a sudden have several advertisements for new convertibles from variuous automakers..
So much of our personal information is available. Typing your phone number into the Google® serach box will most often give your address. The Hamilton County Auditor’s website http://www.hamiltoncountyauditor.org/ has information about your home, property taxes, improvements and even contains a recent photograph and block diagram of your house.
There is not much we can do to protect our personal information from being collected if we are going to continue to enjoy the benefits of modern technology. We can however insist that the use of this information is scrutinized by our leaders and that our right to privacy is protected.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Gone Biking!
There will be no new blog material added for 10 days or so. I am riding RAGBRAI again this year so will be gone thru July 27th. Going to take a break from new technology and use some pedal power instead.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Battery Powered TV and DTV Converters
I get questions like this often….
… Now my question, to which I believe I know the answer: I have one of those handy, portable 2.2" LCD TVs that runs off of a few AA batteries. No radio - it is TV only - but has VHF/UHF bands, telescoping antenna, contrast/brightness control, etc. Nice little TV, good to have during storms, power outages, etc, but of course it is analog only. With no apparent way to feed a digital signal into it, is this a soon-to-be doorstop, albeit a little one? I assume that the answer is "yes, it is a soon-to-be doorstop". Have you run across any "second life" uses for something like this? I hate to just junk it (don't worry; I'll make sure it gets in the proper recycling channel), but if there is any other way for me or somebody else to use it, I'd appreciate knowing about that.
Regards,
Tom Harrison Township
The short answer is that you could make this TV work post February 2009 but is most likely not worth the effort or expense. You could attach a wire from DTV converter to the actual VHS antenna. You would need to find a way to power the DTV converter. A hobbyist would look at this as a fun project. Most of us would find it a hassle.
The underlying question is a good one and relates to a similar issue of using radios that have TV bands. Many, like me, use these when "Duke's Hamsters" go in strike and the power goes out to listen to the TV weather and news. These radios will no longer work post February 2009.
While they are still scarce, there are and will be more small digital TV’s that will run on batteries just like Tom’s. The one’s on the market right now, one from Toshiba and Coby are very pricey. Just like all electronic devices they will soon be affordable. Same will hold true for radios with TV bands that will receive the audio form DTV stations.
… Now my question, to which I believe I know the answer: I have one of those handy, portable 2.2" LCD TVs that runs off of a few AA batteries. No radio - it is TV only - but has VHF/UHF bands, telescoping antenna, contrast/brightness control, etc. Nice little TV, good to have during storms, power outages, etc, but of course it is analog only. With no apparent way to feed a digital signal into it, is this a soon-to-be doorstop, albeit a little one? I assume that the answer is "yes, it is a soon-to-be doorstop". Have you run across any "second life" uses for something like this? I hate to just junk it (don't worry; I'll make sure it gets in the proper recycling channel), but if there is any other way for me or somebody else to use it, I'd appreciate knowing about that.
Regards,
Tom Harrison Township
The short answer is that you could make this TV work post February 2009 but is most likely not worth the effort or expense. You could attach a wire from DTV converter to the actual VHS antenna. You would need to find a way to power the DTV converter. A hobbyist would look at this as a fun project. Most of us would find it a hassle.
The underlying question is a good one and relates to a similar issue of using radios that have TV bands. Many, like me, use these when "Duke's Hamsters" go in strike and the power goes out to listen to the TV weather and news. These radios will no longer work post February 2009.
While they are still scarce, there are and will be more small digital TV’s that will run on batteries just like Tom’s. The one’s on the market right now, one from Toshiba and Coby are very pricey. Just like all electronic devices they will soon be affordable. Same will hold true for radios with TV bands that will receive the audio form DTV stations.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Converter Box Coupons by US MAIL or FAX
You can now order DTV Converter Coupons by US Mail or Fax. Just Click Here to download an application.
You can still order via phone at 1-888-388-2009 or Click Here to order on line.
TTY users can use 1-877-530-2634.
You can still order via phone at 1-888-388-2009 or Click Here to order on line.
TTY users can use 1-877-530-2634.
Help Others With DTV Issues
Over the past few months I have written extensively in this blog about the upcoming analog TV shutdown next February. We have discussed your options for continuing to receive your favorite channels and how you can apply to the Federal Government for coupons to help pay for set top DTV converters if you need them.
If you are regular reader of my column you will remember that that I have been stressing that if you are a cable or satellite service subscriber, you need to do nothing, as both the satellite and cable companies are going to continue to offer you an “analog friendly” signal. You will be able to watch programs on your current analog set. That is great news for the vast majority of TV viewers in the Cincinnati area because they are in this category. Nevertheless, a 2006 study showed that more than 100,000 homes in the area still used over-the-air broadcasting as their sole method of watching TV.
That’s a lot of people who continue to receive TV using none of this new technology. For those individuals to continue to watch TV post February of next year, they must either replace their set with a digital TV or buy a DTV converter for their old TV. Unfortunately many of these persons are elderly or shut ins and don’t understand what they need to do. Many don’t realize that they are eligible for the coupons.
I suggest that even if you don’t need a coupon for yourself, you go ahead and apply for them. When they arrive you can give them to someone who needs a converter. This is perfectly legal as long as you don’t sell the coupons.
Who my need one? Good examples are persons living in nursing homes or extended care facilities. Many living there have had trouble getting coupons since there is usually a single street address for the facility and the government did not take that into consideration when it set up the program. It provides only two coupons per mailing address. Many individuals living in these facilities are the very people who need the DTV converters the most and many not only can’t get out to buy one, but don’t have a coupon to help defray the cost.
If you have a friend or relative in this situation, ask them if they know about the February cut off and if they need help making sure that they will be able to watch TV post digital transition. It may be the guy down the street or your wife’s favorite aunt.
Even if you have cable, there is another reason to get a DTV converter. If the cable goes out you will not be able to switch to receiving over-the-air if you don’t have a converter. Also, many of us have second or third sets in the bedroom or garage not connected to cable. Each of these will be useless without a converter.
It may seem like I am devoting an inordinate amount in this column to this issue. Getting ready now, sending for the coupons now, and purchasing and installing the converters now, will save a ton of hassle later. Finding a converter box or someone to help you install it on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 will not be easy. Let’s hope that the only snow you see on that morning will be on the ground and not on your TV screen.
If you are regular reader of my column you will remember that that I have been stressing that if you are a cable or satellite service subscriber, you need to do nothing, as both the satellite and cable companies are going to continue to offer you an “analog friendly” signal. You will be able to watch programs on your current analog set. That is great news for the vast majority of TV viewers in the Cincinnati area because they are in this category. Nevertheless, a 2006 study showed that more than 100,000 homes in the area still used over-the-air broadcasting as their sole method of watching TV.
That’s a lot of people who continue to receive TV using none of this new technology. For those individuals to continue to watch TV post February of next year, they must either replace their set with a digital TV or buy a DTV converter for their old TV. Unfortunately many of these persons are elderly or shut ins and don’t understand what they need to do. Many don’t realize that they are eligible for the coupons.
I suggest that even if you don’t need a coupon for yourself, you go ahead and apply for them. When they arrive you can give them to someone who needs a converter. This is perfectly legal as long as you don’t sell the coupons.
Who my need one? Good examples are persons living in nursing homes or extended care facilities. Many living there have had trouble getting coupons since there is usually a single street address for the facility and the government did not take that into consideration when it set up the program. It provides only two coupons per mailing address. Many individuals living in these facilities are the very people who need the DTV converters the most and many not only can’t get out to buy one, but don’t have a coupon to help defray the cost.
If you have a friend or relative in this situation, ask them if they know about the February cut off and if they need help making sure that they will be able to watch TV post digital transition. It may be the guy down the street or your wife’s favorite aunt.
Even if you have cable, there is another reason to get a DTV converter. If the cable goes out you will not be able to switch to receiving over-the-air if you don’t have a converter. Also, many of us have second or third sets in the bedroom or garage not connected to cable. Each of these will be useless without a converter.
It may seem like I am devoting an inordinate amount in this column to this issue. Getting ready now, sending for the coupons now, and purchasing and installing the converters now, will save a ton of hassle later. Finding a converter box or someone to help you install it on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 will not be easy. Let’s hope that the only snow you see on that morning will be on the ground and not on your TV screen.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Bill Gates Did More Than Program Computers
I have been known to speak irreverently and harshly about Microsoft®. Most often these diatribes are prompted by some “blue screen” error or other irritation emanating from my computer. Even if it is something I did wrong, I am prone to blame the crew from Redmond, Washington. Well, that crew now has a new captain. The end of June marked the end of one of the most storied business careers ever, as Bill Gates stepped down from day-to-day management of Microsoft® and will now serve only as the board Chairman.
As a college student in 1975, Bill was the quintessential math nerd. There were the glasses and the tussled hair. I’m not sure if there was a pocket protector, but I bet there was a slide rule or two hanging on his belt. He was hardly what the blue bloods of industry would have predicted to become one of the most influential persons of the century. His innovations are not only in the technology arena, but permeate new business management practices and more important, modern philanthropy.
It was due in large part to what he conceived in college, what he developed in the proverbial garage, and what he sold to some skeptical suits at IBM, that our world today is radically changed and can barely function without the computer. If you step back and reflect on how our home life, our work life and even our leisure pursuits have changed in the 30 some years since he and his college buds founded Microsoft®, you can’t be anything but amazed.
While he and his colleagues have contributed greatly to the technology we use and enjoy, it is only part of much broader contributions. For example, the collaborative and participatory management style used to develop software is now taught at the very university from which he dropped out. Once only found in the cubicles of Silicon Valley and Redmond, Washington, the informal work environment, less hierarchical chain of command and collaborative approach to problem solving are now just as prominent at P&G, Kroger and GE as they are at Cisco, Google and Apple.
What is even more impressive to me is what Gates and his wife have decided to do with the fortune that he has amassed by working with the bits and bytes. Mr. Gates is said to be the third richest person in the world. Now that he has relinquished his day job, he and his wife are concentrating on the operation of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The foundation has already made a big impact on major health and education improvement in this country and around the world especially in sub-Sahara Africa. Gates brings many of his experiences honed at Microsoft® to the foundation. He gets the best of the best to find new, creative and effective ways to address humanitarian issues.
To be sure, we should not elevate him to sainthood. There are those pesky antitrust suits that keep coming up. You do have to say, though, that it has not been a bad career for a smart skinny kid who dropped out of college.
As a college student in 1975, Bill was the quintessential math nerd. There were the glasses and the tussled hair. I’m not sure if there was a pocket protector, but I bet there was a slide rule or two hanging on his belt. He was hardly what the blue bloods of industry would have predicted to become one of the most influential persons of the century. His innovations are not only in the technology arena, but permeate new business management practices and more important, modern philanthropy.
It was due in large part to what he conceived in college, what he developed in the proverbial garage, and what he sold to some skeptical suits at IBM, that our world today is radically changed and can barely function without the computer. If you step back and reflect on how our home life, our work life and even our leisure pursuits have changed in the 30 some years since he and his college buds founded Microsoft®, you can’t be anything but amazed.
While he and his colleagues have contributed greatly to the technology we use and enjoy, it is only part of much broader contributions. For example, the collaborative and participatory management style used to develop software is now taught at the very university from which he dropped out. Once only found in the cubicles of Silicon Valley and Redmond, Washington, the informal work environment, less hierarchical chain of command and collaborative approach to problem solving are now just as prominent at P&G, Kroger and GE as they are at Cisco, Google and Apple.
What is even more impressive to me is what Gates and his wife have decided to do with the fortune that he has amassed by working with the bits and bytes. Mr. Gates is said to be the third richest person in the world. Now that he has relinquished his day job, he and his wife are concentrating on the operation of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The foundation has already made a big impact on major health and education improvement in this country and around the world especially in sub-Sahara Africa. Gates brings many of his experiences honed at Microsoft® to the foundation. He gets the best of the best to find new, creative and effective ways to address humanitarian issues.
To be sure, we should not elevate him to sainthood. There are those pesky antitrust suits that keep coming up. You do have to say, though, that it has not been a bad career for a smart skinny kid who dropped out of college.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Leave Some Technology At Home This Summer
It’s that time of year again. Fireworks are sounding, the sun is shinning and vacations are on our mind. Even with $4 plus fuel, many of us will take some time off and go away on vacation. Technology is a blessing and a curse for those who want to get away from it all.
For sure the convenience of booking travel and accommodations on the Internet can take some of the hassle out of vacations. Web services like travelocity.com® and priceline.com® can provide some deep discounts. Most airlines offer online boarding passes cutting the time you need to spend in lines at CVG. You can even prepare your baggage tags on line.
If you are driving, MapQuest.com® can provide very good directions as well as travel time. You can plan a trip based on a variety of preferences. For example, if you don’t want to travel on Interstate highways, MapQuest will take that into consideration. If you don’t care about tolls or Interstates, but only want the quickest way to your destination, you can ask MapQuest to plan accordingly.
The proliferation of GPS devices is almost unbelievable. Some of the hand-held models have more navigation power than the first Space Shuttle. While I have found some strange routing for certain trips, for the most part they are very accurate. I am not a fan of that ever-patient little women inside the GPS that absolutely can’t get upset no matter what knucklehead mistake I make when driving. Wouldn’t it be neat if she muttered few expletives after you passed the exit for the fifth time. No one is that patient!
I am going to recommend that you not use some technologies on that next get away. I saw a new term recently in a blog authored by Robert Roy Britt that I though was very indicative of the downside of all this technology. His term is “technotether.” He defines technotether as our inability to ignore that ringing cell phone. Our addiction to the BlackBerry® and other electronic personal assistants is another example of this affliction. Perhaps the most egregious is our need to check our email. These technologies have expanded the work day and the work place. The addition of wifi service on some commercial flights has penetrated the one place that you could not get email. Britt contends that we are “tethered” to these technologies and in many ways it is not healthy.
Let me make a suggestion. Don’t check email while on vacation. Bring your cell phone but don’t call back home or to the office. Don’t check office voice mail. Leave a message telling callers that you will not be checking it. I figure if the President of the United States is looking for me he won’t leave a voice message anyway. His minions will find me. For heavens sake leave the blackberry in its charging cradle for a week.
For the first day or so you will experience withdrawal. After that you will be amazed how much more restful vacation turns out to be.
For sure the convenience of booking travel and accommodations on the Internet can take some of the hassle out of vacations. Web services like travelocity.com® and priceline.com® can provide some deep discounts. Most airlines offer online boarding passes cutting the time you need to spend in lines at CVG. You can even prepare your baggage tags on line.
If you are driving, MapQuest.com® can provide very good directions as well as travel time. You can plan a trip based on a variety of preferences. For example, if you don’t want to travel on Interstate highways, MapQuest will take that into consideration. If you don’t care about tolls or Interstates, but only want the quickest way to your destination, you can ask MapQuest to plan accordingly.
The proliferation of GPS devices is almost unbelievable. Some of the hand-held models have more navigation power than the first Space Shuttle. While I have found some strange routing for certain trips, for the most part they are very accurate. I am not a fan of that ever-patient little women inside the GPS that absolutely can’t get upset no matter what knucklehead mistake I make when driving. Wouldn’t it be neat if she muttered few expletives after you passed the exit for the fifth time. No one is that patient!
I am going to recommend that you not use some technologies on that next get away. I saw a new term recently in a blog authored by Robert Roy Britt that I though was very indicative of the downside of all this technology. His term is “technotether.” He defines technotether as our inability to ignore that ringing cell phone. Our addiction to the BlackBerry® and other electronic personal assistants is another example of this affliction. Perhaps the most egregious is our need to check our email. These technologies have expanded the work day and the work place. The addition of wifi service on some commercial flights has penetrated the one place that you could not get email. Britt contends that we are “tethered” to these technologies and in many ways it is not healthy.
Let me make a suggestion. Don’t check email while on vacation. Bring your cell phone but don’t call back home or to the office. Don’t check office voice mail. Leave a message telling callers that you will not be checking it. I figure if the President of the United States is looking for me he won’t leave a voice message anyway. His minions will find me. For heavens sake leave the blackberry in its charging cradle for a week.
For the first day or so you will experience withdrawal. After that you will be amazed how much more restful vacation turns out to be.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
A Place To Recycle CLF's
A while back I discussed the need to be careful when disposing of electonic "trash." The Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District emailed today to let me know that ALL Home Depot stores now accept used Compact Fluorescent Lights (CLF’s) for recycling!
Here are the details excerpted from a press release.
The Home Depot®, launched a national in-store, consumer compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb recycling program at all 1,973 The Home Depot locations. This free offers customers additional options for making environmentally conscious decisions from purchase to disposal. The Home Depot Canada launched a CFL recycling program in November, 2007.
At each The Home Depot store, customers can simply bring in any expired, unbroken CFL bulbs, and give them to the store associate behind the returns desk. The bulbs will then be managed responsibly by an environmental management company who will coordinate CFL packaging, transportation and recycling to maximize safety and ensure environmental compliance.
Here are the details excerpted from a press release.
The Home Depot®, launched a national in-store, consumer compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb recycling program at all 1,973 The Home Depot locations. This free offers customers additional options for making environmentally conscious decisions from purchase to disposal. The Home Depot Canada launched a CFL recycling program in November, 2007.
At each The Home Depot store, customers can simply bring in any expired, unbroken CFL bulbs, and give them to the store associate behind the returns desk. The bulbs will then be managed responsibly by an environmental management company who will coordinate CFL packaging, transportation and recycling to maximize safety and ensure environmental compliance.
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Problem Is Not In Your Set!
I have been getting calls and emails recently from several people all with the same question. It seems that they have either purchased a new DTV set or have connected a DTV converter to their old analog set and have experienced a strange phenomenon. They are getting great digital reception from all the local stations except Channel 9, WCPO DT.
Now let’s be clear. These are people who do not subscribe to cable or a satellite service. Instead, they rely on over-the-air reception to watch TV.
There is a very simple answer to this conundrum. The problem is not in their TV set. The problem is on top of the TV set or on the roof. It is very likely the antenna.
Back in the 1990s the FCC assigned new channels for DTV to all existing full-power broadcasters. In most cases these new channels were in the UHF band, i.e. Channel 14 – 68. For example CET received DTV Channel 34, WLW got Channel 35. Both are in the UHF band. WCPO got VHF Channel 10. Therein is the problem.
While you may not know it, there are significant differences in the design of antennas used for picking up UHF channels from those designed to pick up VHF channels. I won’t go into the physics. Take my word for it. So if you have a UHF antenna, either set top or roof top, and it is a “UHF only” model, it will not pick up the VHF signal from Channel 10, WCPO.
By the way, don’t let these numbers confuse you. In order to keep it simple, all digital TVs and converter boxes display the old channel analog numbers so the consumers don’t have to get used to a new numbering system. When you watch CET’s digital channel, which as I said above is really channel 34, the TV channel indicator will display good old Channel 48.
OK back to the problem at hand. I did an experiment. I live on a very high ridge just north of Harrison. On a clear day I can see some of the TV towers in downtown Cincinnati from my front window. I connected a UHF/VHF antenna to a DTV receiver and got a good picture from Channel 9 DT. I switched to a “UHF only” antenna. I got nothing.
You might ask why now? You may be using the same antenna that you used for getting analog Channel 9. The UHF antenna worked OK.
Digital signals are different in that they are either perfect or non existent. It is called the “cliff effect.” With analog signals we all have experienced a TV signal that is snowy. We put up with it until it is no longer viewable. A digital signal will never be snowy. If the TV set’s circuitry determines that it can not provide a perfect picture, it will just go to black. I think that is what is happening with our callers’ sets.
The solution is to get an antenna that is designed for both UHF and VHF. That should fix the problem. Some set top antennas have amplifiers. This can help as well. Be sure that the amplifier can be switched off. There are some instances when too much signal can cause problems as well. That’s another column.
Now let’s be clear. These are people who do not subscribe to cable or a satellite service. Instead, they rely on over-the-air reception to watch TV.
There is a very simple answer to this conundrum. The problem is not in their TV set. The problem is on top of the TV set or on the roof. It is very likely the antenna.
Back in the 1990s the FCC assigned new channels for DTV to all existing full-power broadcasters. In most cases these new channels were in the UHF band, i.e. Channel 14 – 68. For example CET received DTV Channel 34, WLW got Channel 35. Both are in the UHF band. WCPO got VHF Channel 10. Therein is the problem.
While you may not know it, there are significant differences in the design of antennas used for picking up UHF channels from those designed to pick up VHF channels. I won’t go into the physics. Take my word for it. So if you have a UHF antenna, either set top or roof top, and it is a “UHF only” model, it will not pick up the VHF signal from Channel 10, WCPO.
By the way, don’t let these numbers confuse you. In order to keep it simple, all digital TVs and converter boxes display the old channel analog numbers so the consumers don’t have to get used to a new numbering system. When you watch CET’s digital channel, which as I said above is really channel 34, the TV channel indicator will display good old Channel 48.
OK back to the problem at hand. I did an experiment. I live on a very high ridge just north of Harrison. On a clear day I can see some of the TV towers in downtown Cincinnati from my front window. I connected a UHF/VHF antenna to a DTV receiver and got a good picture from Channel 9 DT. I switched to a “UHF only” antenna. I got nothing.
You might ask why now? You may be using the same antenna that you used for getting analog Channel 9. The UHF antenna worked OK.
Digital signals are different in that they are either perfect or non existent. It is called the “cliff effect.” With analog signals we all have experienced a TV signal that is snowy. We put up with it until it is no longer viewable. A digital signal will never be snowy. If the TV set’s circuitry determines that it can not provide a perfect picture, it will just go to black. I think that is what is happening with our callers’ sets.
The solution is to get an antenna that is designed for both UHF and VHF. That should fix the problem. Some set top antennas have amplifiers. This can help as well. Be sure that the amplifier can be switched off. There are some instances when too much signal can cause problems as well. That’s another column.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Watch DTV Programs On Line
Wednesday evening at 8 PM I was involved in the broadcast our first live DTV call in show on CET. We got more than 160 questions and they are still coming in this morning. The program was ½ hour but could have gone for an hour or more and still not addressed all the concerns and questions.
To watch the program on CETconnect.org just point your browser to http://www.cetconnect.org/cetconnect_video.asp?ID=2997 It is about 30 minutes in length.
We plan to take the most “asked” questions and produce 30 sec. spots that will run on CET TV. Keep your questions coming. Send them to techinfo@cetconnect.org or just place a comment here on the blog.
We are considering of two or three more before Feb 2009. CET wants to make sure that the only “snow” you see on February 18, 2009 is on the ground, not on your TV.
To watch the program on CETconnect.org just point your browser to http://www.cetconnect.org/cetconnect_video.asp?ID=2997 It is about 30 minutes in length.
We plan to take the most “asked” questions and produce 30 sec. spots that will run on CET TV. Keep your questions coming. Send them to techinfo@cetconnect.org or just place a comment here on the blog.
We are considering of two or three more before Feb 2009. CET wants to make sure that the only “snow” you see on February 18, 2009 is on the ground, not on your TV.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
CAll IN YOUR DTV QUESTIONS
If you live in the Cincinnati, Ohio area you can tune in tomorrow, Wednesday evening for a special program on CET TV called “DTV, Ask US.” It is your chance to ask questions and get some good unbiased information about the digital transition.
So if you are wondering about getting a new set or what type of DTV converter works best, tune in.
We will have a phone bank of experts and I will be joined live in the studio by Neal Schmidt. Neal heads up CET’s Engineering Department. He and his colleagues have a wealth of good information.
I promise that we will give good advice and information you can use and we will do it in simple non-technical language.
That is Wednesday, June 18 from 8:00 - 8:30 PM on CET. If you miss it, you can watch it on demand at www.cetconnect.com beginning Thursday morning. Tell a neighbor.
Phones will be open beginning at 6:00 PM for your calls to 800-808-0445. Note this number is only good from 6 to 9 PM. You can use 513-345-6512 any other time for your technical questions.
So if you are wondering about getting a new set or what type of DTV converter works best, tune in.
We will have a phone bank of experts and I will be joined live in the studio by Neal Schmidt. Neal heads up CET’s Engineering Department. He and his colleagues have a wealth of good information.
I promise that we will give good advice and information you can use and we will do it in simple non-technical language.
That is Wednesday, June 18 from 8:00 - 8:30 PM on CET. If you miss it, you can watch it on demand at www.cetconnect.com beginning Thursday morning. Tell a neighbor.
Phones will be open beginning at 6:00 PM for your calls to 800-808-0445. Note this number is only good from 6 to 9 PM. You can use 513-345-6512 any other time for your technical questions.
Answers To Some Common DTV Questions
I am going to answer a few questions which have been submitted by readers. They cover several different subjects.
The first question deals with finding a DTV converter that allows you to continue to watch local “low power” stations like Channels 25 and 38 after February 2009. The “low power” stations transmit programs using a fraction of the power required by the major stations like Channel 9 or CET. As a result, many households in our area are unable to receive them. So, you may not even know they exist. These two stations and other “low power” stations in the US will not be changing to digital next year. So, if you receive them now and you want to continue to watch them on your old analog TV set after February 2009, you will need a special DTV converter. Up until now these converters have been very hard to find, but you can now order them through many Radio Shack® stores for $59.99 retail. You can use the DTV coupons so the price is about 20 bucks. Ask for Zenith™ Model DTT901 Catalog # 15-193. If you don’t watch the low power channels, just go with a standard DTV converter.
I was sent me an email asking if even a very old TV, i.e. vintage 1960’s, will work with a DTV converter. (I told you, people never throw away TVs.) The answer is Yes! Of course the picture will not be very sharp and it will be in black and white, but it will display the digital channels. For older TVs you may need to purchase an adapter to connect the converter to the TV, since older TVs have two small screws on the back to which you connect the antenna or rabbit ears. The DTV converter uses what is called an “F” connector. You will need to get a “75 ohm to 300 ohm matching transformer” to adapt the “F” connector. They can be purchased at most electronic stores for about 5 bucks.
Another question came in regarding the need to get a new antenna and lead in wire if you were buying a new HDTV set and would not be using a cable or satellite service. My recommendation would be to wait until you get the new set and see how your current antenna works. In many situations the simple indoor set-top antenna may be all you need. In other cases the outdoor antenna that you already have installed and connected to your analog TV may work just fine with your new HDTV set. Don’t fix it if it isn’t broken!
I wrote about this a few months ago but it bears repeating. There is NO SUCH THING AS A DIGITAL or HDTV ANTENNA. There are antennas that are more efficient than others. Some have amplifiers. Some do not. The antenna itself and the lead in wire are exactly the same for analog reception and digital reception.
It is both amusing and irritating to walk through stores and see antennas for sale with the boxes labeled “HDTV Antenna” or “Specially designed for DTV use.” Many of these antennas will come with an inflated price tag because of the HDTV moniker.
Keep you questions coming. If I don’t know the answer, I have many colleagues much smarter than I am (thank heavens) who, for the price of a beer, will help me out.
The first question deals with finding a DTV converter that allows you to continue to watch local “low power” stations like Channels 25 and 38 after February 2009. The “low power” stations transmit programs using a fraction of the power required by the major stations like Channel 9 or CET. As a result, many households in our area are unable to receive them. So, you may not even know they exist. These two stations and other “low power” stations in the US will not be changing to digital next year. So, if you receive them now and you want to continue to watch them on your old analog TV set after February 2009, you will need a special DTV converter. Up until now these converters have been very hard to find, but you can now order them through many Radio Shack® stores for $59.99 retail. You can use the DTV coupons so the price is about 20 bucks. Ask for Zenith™ Model DTT901 Catalog # 15-193. If you don’t watch the low power channels, just go with a standard DTV converter.
I was sent me an email asking if even a very old TV, i.e. vintage 1960’s, will work with a DTV converter. (I told you, people never throw away TVs.) The answer is Yes! Of course the picture will not be very sharp and it will be in black and white, but it will display the digital channels. For older TVs you may need to purchase an adapter to connect the converter to the TV, since older TVs have two small screws on the back to which you connect the antenna or rabbit ears. The DTV converter uses what is called an “F” connector. You will need to get a “75 ohm to 300 ohm matching transformer” to adapt the “F” connector. They can be purchased at most electronic stores for about 5 bucks.
Another question came in regarding the need to get a new antenna and lead in wire if you were buying a new HDTV set and would not be using a cable or satellite service. My recommendation would be to wait until you get the new set and see how your current antenna works. In many situations the simple indoor set-top antenna may be all you need. In other cases the outdoor antenna that you already have installed and connected to your analog TV may work just fine with your new HDTV set. Don’t fix it if it isn’t broken!
I wrote about this a few months ago but it bears repeating. There is NO SUCH THING AS A DIGITAL or HDTV ANTENNA. There are antennas that are more efficient than others. Some have amplifiers. Some do not. The antenna itself and the lead in wire are exactly the same for analog reception and digital reception.
It is both amusing and irritating to walk through stores and see antennas for sale with the boxes labeled “HDTV Antenna” or “Specially designed for DTV use.” Many of these antennas will come with an inflated price tag because of the HDTV moniker.
Keep you questions coming. If I don’t know the answer, I have many colleagues much smarter than I am (thank heavens) who, for the price of a beer, will help me out.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Pass Through DTV Converter Impressive
I had a chance to test the Digital Stream (Model DTX9950) DTV converter available from Radio Shack® stores. John Kiesewetter, Radio and TV Writer at the Enquirer brought one by the station yesterday morning. This is one of the first converters I have seen available locally that has the “pass through” feature. Many of the standard DTV converters, once connected to your analog TV set, will effectively block out any analog reception. If you want to continue to watch the area’s low power stations like Channel 25 and 38, (neither will be converting to digital in February 2009) you will need a “pass through” DTV converter.
I have to say that I was impressed with the unit. We were able to pull in all the major analog stations with the unit attached and set in the “pass through” mode, i.e. effectively “turned off.” In this mode you use the tuner in your TV to tune in the analog stations. On the digital side we received perfect pictures from all the local DTV stations plus three stations from Dayton. Since we were using a small inexpensive set top antenna and the TV was located in CET’s Central Parkway lobby -not an ideal TV reception location - one could presume that the unit will function well in a more ideal setting.
One warning however…the digital signals can be somewhat erratic so there is no assurance that your reception will be perfect. Sometimes a difference in the location of your TV of only a few feet can make the difference between a perfect picture and no picture at all.
I can say that is one of the most sensitive DTV receivers I have tested and well worth the $60 price tag. Use one of the DTV coupons and the price drops to $20.
I am always interested in your experiences. Let me know about your DTV reception using your DTV converters and TV sets. I will share them here on the blog.
I have to say that I was impressed with the unit. We were able to pull in all the major analog stations with the unit attached and set in the “pass through” mode, i.e. effectively “turned off.” In this mode you use the tuner in your TV to tune in the analog stations. On the digital side we received perfect pictures from all the local DTV stations plus three stations from Dayton. Since we were using a small inexpensive set top antenna and the TV was located in CET’s Central Parkway lobby -not an ideal TV reception location - one could presume that the unit will function well in a more ideal setting.
One warning however…the digital signals can be somewhat erratic so there is no assurance that your reception will be perfect. Sometimes a difference in the location of your TV of only a few feet can make the difference between a perfect picture and no picture at all.
I can say that is one of the most sensitive DTV receivers I have tested and well worth the $60 price tag. Use one of the DTV coupons and the price drops to $20.
I am always interested in your experiences. Let me know about your DTV reception using your DTV converters and TV sets. I will share them here on the blog.
Monday, June 9, 2008
TV Anytime & Anywhere
Over the past nine months or so I have been involved on a national committee looking at systems for providing video programming to mobile and hand held devices. Representatives from the major broadcast groups and other industry leaders have been examining how the new digital broadcast system can be used for more applications than only that new HD TV set in the family room.
You would have to be living on a deserted island not to be aware that the world of communications has gone mobile. More and more young people don’t even have a hard- wired phone line, choosing instead the flexibility and convenience of the cell phone. The Black Berry®, or one of the myriad of similar portable communication/assistant devices, has replaced the red “power tie” in corporate conference rooms large and small. So it is only logical that TV programming too will migrate to an untethered universe.
There are already some nascent video services being provided for viewing on cell phones. Verizon® and others offer expanded video services. So far these have only been offered in selected markets and are somewhat pricey. The main issue is that video programming is a ravenous consumer of bandwidth. As an example, if we take the bandwidth currently being used to provide only one channel of public television using UHF Channel 48 and use it for voice or data transmission, we could provide thousands of individual phone conversations and computer connections with the web. One TV program or thousands of other services. So when you send video over a cell phone network, it really can clog up the works. This means it is not very robust and it is expensive to provide.
As I have written repeatedly in this column, TV in the US has already converted to digital technology with the end of the analog TV age coming in about seven months. The group that I have been serving with is engaged in developing a system that uses part of the broadcaster’s digital signal to send video programming to mobile devices. The conversion to digital allows a more efficient use of the bandwidth.
Some examples. That back seat video screen in the mini van that now displays programs from the same old DVDs will be able to receive new live special programming aimed akids. No more “if I have to come back there” pronouncements. While our area does not have as many mass transit commuters as some of the major US cities, even here, some bus riders might enjoy watching the morning news programs while riding the Metro down I-74.
It may come as a surprise to some that the US is far behind many other countries in deploying this technology. Japan, Korea and some of the Scandinavian countries have very robust mobile networks and mobile video services. In these countries, a combination of government subsidy and consumer demand has spawned higher speed networks and lower prices.
In the US some of the mobile video services will be riding on the broadcast digital TV system and it is anticipated that much of the cost will be absorbed by advertisers. Time will tell.
The first of the mobile services are projected to launch in 2009.
You would have to be living on a deserted island not to be aware that the world of communications has gone mobile. More and more young people don’t even have a hard- wired phone line, choosing instead the flexibility and convenience of the cell phone. The Black Berry®, or one of the myriad of similar portable communication/assistant devices, has replaced the red “power tie” in corporate conference rooms large and small. So it is only logical that TV programming too will migrate to an untethered universe.
There are already some nascent video services being provided for viewing on cell phones. Verizon® and others offer expanded video services. So far these have only been offered in selected markets and are somewhat pricey. The main issue is that video programming is a ravenous consumer of bandwidth. As an example, if we take the bandwidth currently being used to provide only one channel of public television using UHF Channel 48 and use it for voice or data transmission, we could provide thousands of individual phone conversations and computer connections with the web. One TV program or thousands of other services. So when you send video over a cell phone network, it really can clog up the works. This means it is not very robust and it is expensive to provide.
As I have written repeatedly in this column, TV in the US has already converted to digital technology with the end of the analog TV age coming in about seven months. The group that I have been serving with is engaged in developing a system that uses part of the broadcaster’s digital signal to send video programming to mobile devices. The conversion to digital allows a more efficient use of the bandwidth.
Some examples. That back seat video screen in the mini van that now displays programs from the same old DVDs will be able to receive new live special programming aimed akids. No more “if I have to come back there” pronouncements. While our area does not have as many mass transit commuters as some of the major US cities, even here, some bus riders might enjoy watching the morning news programs while riding the Metro down I-74.
It may come as a surprise to some that the US is far behind many other countries in deploying this technology. Japan, Korea and some of the Scandinavian countries have very robust mobile networks and mobile video services. In these countries, a combination of government subsidy and consumer demand has spawned higher speed networks and lower prices.
In the US some of the mobile video services will be riding on the broadcast digital TV system and it is anticipated that much of the cost will be absorbed by advertisers. Time will tell.
The first of the mobile services are projected to launch in 2009.
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