What are the Differences between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

Posted on October 4, 2011 by tanveers

Wireless fidelity (wi-fi) technology has been around longer than Bluetooth technology has.  Both the technologies are wireless and use radio frequency waves for transmission purposes, but they use them in very different ways, and thus their uses are very different.  To understand this better, we can compare them in the following various areas.

Technology Standards:  As said before, wi-fi and Bluetooth use different standards.  Current wi-fi installations use the 802.11n standard.  Bluetooth devices use the Bluetooth 2.0 standard.

The Type of Network Used:  Wi-fi is used for the formation of a wireless Local Area Network (LAN).  Multiple desktop computers and laptop computers can be connected using wi-fi.  Bluetooth is incapable of forming a LAN, but can allow you to form a Personal Area Network (PAN).

Data Speed: One key difference between Bluetooth and wi-fi is that the data transfer rate for Bluetooth is much higher than a wi-fi.  Bluetooth can transfer data at a rate of 800 kbps, but blue tooth transfers data at lower speeds because it is otherwise susceptible to data loss.  Internet connections that use wi-fi have a download speed that is slower than that of broadband internet.

Range: Wi-fi has been a home and office LAN favorite since its debut.  At home, the setup process is easy because you do not need to add LAN cables to your system to form a network and allow your different devices to share the same internet connection.  In the office, the same goes; plus, if there is no need to install cables, business expenses are reduced.  Most computers manufactured today already have the wireless LAN card installed, but many cell phone and laptop manufacturers have begun to integrate Bluetooth technology into their products.  Range is the main difference between these two technologies.  A wi-fi LAN has a range of up to 300 feet from the central wireless networking node.  Bluetooth has a range of a mere 30 feet or so.

Connection and Installation: Wi-fi networks are easy to install, but do still require configuration, routers and modems.  On the other hand, Bluetooth devices need neither installation nor configuration; they are extremely simple devices.  You just select the other Bluetooth-enabled device that you want to transfer your data.  If you wish to enable to Bluetooth capability in your PC, you only need to buy a Bluetooth adapter.  The Bluetooth dongle comes with a setup CD; you simply install the setup to enable the Bluetooth.  It really is that easy.

The Applications of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Bluetooth is used primarily for file and data transfers between devices.  You may also use such a device to access a printer from your computer, so long as that computer is also Bluetooth enabled.  With wi-fi, you can also make small data transfers, but you can additionally access databases and software located in other machines that are part of the same LAN.  Wireless internet access can be given to all of the computers in the same LAN.  This is not possible with the Bluetooth; however, if you are able to access the internet with the GPRS in your Bluetooth cell phone, you can connect a Bluetooth enabled computer to the internet.

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Computer Rental FAQs

Posted on August 31, 2011 by tanveers

If you have been worrying about whether to buy a laptop or not since it is quite over your budget, or if you are a business owners, you must have been wondering if there is any alternative to buying expensive computer & digital equipment!

Well, the good news is that there is a solution. All one need to do is contact a computer rental services and get all that you need for your household or your office according to your needs as well as budget.

In case you are wondering what exactly a computer rental service is and how can you avail it, here is all that you need to know.

What Can You Rent?

As the name computer rental services suggest, these service provider rent out a range of equipments for your household as well as your business requirement. From desktop PCs, laptops & notebooks, monitors, printers, projectors, audio-visual devices as well as scanners, rental firms have a solution for each of your needs.

Apart from their range of equipment, they also offer excellent installation as well as tech support. They also offer many offers and trials as well so that you can try them out and then if you wish to continue with them you will need to pay an agreed sum of rent per month.

For many households and businesses, these kinds of rental services have added a great deal of convenience and efficiency by reducing the trouble having to deal with complicated technical things and operations.

 

The Benefits

Computer rental services have grown increasingly over the years across the world. And it is just a reflection of the benefit and value that they add with their offerings and services. Little surprise, they have been flourishing and adding more and more latest technological solutions to problems that we increasing face in our day to day regular as well as business life.

Most of all, with services like that available & accessible round the clock on the internet in your city, they eliminate the need to buy and maintain brand new equipments which are mostly quite expensive. And by providing fast and reliable installing, tech as well as back-up support, they help families and businesses streamline their processes and thus improve efficiency by reducing time, effort, money and technical know-how.

In addition, their offer custom packages as well depending on the requirement of their clients.  For instance, you can choose not only the equipment according to your preference but also select attractive pricing options like short-term as well as long-term rental packages.

And their services often come in surprisingly affordable rates.

How The Business Runs?

In case you are curious about how actually the business runs, here is a brief note on how they source and make their profits by renting them out to us.

Computer rental firms usually source from equipments from wholesale dealers. Next their tuned up and customized them with the necessary operating systems, software as well as other accessories. Most, if not all, install all currently popular operating systems such as Windows, Unix or Linux etc. As far as the software part is concerned, they usually install them as per the requirement of their clients. And when they rent those equipments to consumers, they charge for their usage and thus make their profits to run their services.

Additionally they also offer not only just customization of the equipments but also shipping, installing as well as dismantling them. And in cases where shipping is involved, as usual there are additional charges involved.

Some also offer venue for events like, say, training programs etc. Of course, they charge a rent for the venue as well. Moreover, in some cases, an addition fee for technical support might also be charged.

And customers usually pay them by checks as well as by credit card.

That in a nutshell is how computer rental firm get the equipments and how they make a slight profit by offering us a solution that saves us time, effort and money.

Trust & Fairness

As most of the rental firms conducted their businesses online, they are extra cautious when it comes to the issue of trust, security and fair play. Hence, the ones that are popular and reliable mostly have GSA certification which stands for General Services Administration.

And as there are monetary transactions involved, most rental firms provide adequate protection against any online malpractice.

Points to Remember

As we sum up, here are a few points to keep in mind. Although rental firms might provide a whole gamut of solutions, you need not avail all of them just because they are convenient and affordable. The best thing always is to understand why and what equipment you need, and pick the best offers as well as price points that are in tune with your need. And then place your order.

Before that you would also want to inquire about their tech support and how experienced are they in their handling of technical mishaps.

And finally, choose services providers who are genuinely trying to understand your needs and offering to solve them with the right equipment and according to your budget. And not one who just keeps pitching you an up-sell or a side-sell on you.

Computer rental services are a great convenience and there is no reason why you shouldn’t make use of one when you think renting out might be a better and hassle-free option than buying an expensive equipment or device brand new.

 

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Laptop Overheating – A Concise Guide

Posted on August 20, 2011 by tanveers

A laptop is designed in such a way that it can accommodate most critical components within a limited space. These components include processor or CPU, RAM, hard disk, graphic card, mother board and host of other components. Naturally, when all these components are running simultaneously, they generate a lot of heat. A cooling fan installed at the bottom portion of the laptop circulates the air inside the laptop body so that optimum temperature is maintained. As a failsafe measure, your laptop shuts itself down when it is overheated. If it is a one-off incident, there is nothing to worry about. However, if your laptop is not functioning properly, among many other reasons, overheating might be a probable reason. You can determine if your laptop is overheating if –

  • The cooling fan is running excessively and makes noise
  • The laptop shuts down without any reason
  • Persistent blue screen errors

Such problem occur if you are playing games on your laptop or are running an application or a program that makes the processor and other major components work harder. Excessive overheating of laptop may damage the processor, hard disk, RAM, motherboard or a graphic card each costing nothing less than $100. If the laptop is still under warranty, it is advisable to get it checked from the vendor. However, if that is not the case, do rush to the vendor as you might end up spending a lot of money just for a very simple task.

Ways to Prevent Laptop Overheating

A faulty cooling fan is the most common cause for laptop overheating. If you observe the bottom portion of your laptop, you will find numerous vents which aid in air circulation. If the vents are blocked due to dust or any other reason, your laptop will eventually get overheated and lead to many other problems. In order to avoid this, try one of the following things –

  • You need to tilt your laptop while it is being used so that the air flow to the cooling fan is consistent. This can be achieved simply by putting a small book under the battery. Ensure that cooling fan vent does not get blocked because of the book.
  • If the problem persists, try sticking egg tray sockets at the four corners of your laptop while it is being used.
  • Laptops do not get overheated if you use them in a cool environment like an air-conditioned room.
  • Do not rest the laptop on a soft surface like sofa, cushion or a carpet as that may be blocking the cooling vents. Rather always try that the laptop is resting on an even hard surface that facilitates even air flow.
  • Clean the circulation vents either with compressed air can or a vacuum cleaner.
  • You also can buy a laptop cooling mat available at most computer stores or simply order it online.

Laptop overheating is not a trivial problem that can be overlooked. Take precaution well within time and increase the life of your laptop significantly.

Posted in Laptop, Laptop rental, Overheating, Repair | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Sound Systems

Posted on June 20, 2011 by tanveers

Before you lose all composure while trying to diagnose a malfunction in your sound system, take a deep breath and consider a more logical approach. By starting with a component you know is working, you can backtrack to find the source of your problem.

A logical method of finding the faulty section in your equipment is faster and more reliable than diving in without a plan. Haphazardly checking first one cable and then another without a path in mind will just lead to more frustration.

Start with a working section

If you have a dead mic channel at the mixer, you can replace the input connector from a working channel to test the connection. If the channel works, you have established that the problem is between the console and the mic. If the channel is still dead, you know that you are dealing with a dirty insert jack, a bad channel or maybe a wrong assignment.

You can use the same logical approach to narrow down the origination of the problem even more. If you are working with a good console, replace the mic or the cable and evaluate the results.

Stay focused

Following the logical path of trial and error, one component at a time, will produce results much faster than randomly switching cables and checking jacks-especially if you have problems with two pieces in the set-up.

Using a generator/monitor

Having a portable generator/monitor set-up to assist with diagnostics can speed up the process. Over the years we have heard from many of our clients that built their own systems-or wanted to-and we listened. Our design team here at Whirlwind has developed the Qbox as a solution to those evasive sound system problems. This tester system uses a generator and a monitor to accomplish much more than just testing your system. We are proud to say the Qbox is a handy tool to have around.

Generator Features

The generator produces audio signals at varying levels to run function tests from the power amp to the mic. Signals are produced at the line, mic or instrument level. You can confirm the path from mic input at the console all the way through output, even without a mic, by injecting a signal! The Qbox injects various level signals at multiple places and uses a 400Hz tone generator or internal condenser mic.

Monitor Features and Uses

  1. The monitor features a built in speaker/headphone that is used to listen to mic and line signals.
  2. The monitor can be used as a squawk box and a two-way hands free intercom.
  3. Use the monitor during remote broadcasts as a console.
  4. LED indicators light up to show phantom and intercom power.
  5. You can use the circuit to verify the signal and its level at any point.

Whether you build your own or purchase a commercially built tester, we recommend using a portable generator/monitor set-up to make diagnostics easier and more efficient. Of course, we hope you choose to use the Qbox-it was designed with our customers in mind.

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Fix Computer Speakers

Posted on June 14, 2011 by tanveers

Computers are terrific tools – until something goes wrong! Then they can quickly become sources of great frustration. Sometimes your computer speakers will go out and you’ll be left without volume. No music, no movies, no streaming TV, no VOIP calls, no interactive websites – this problem needs to be fixed. Let’s look at some quick troubleshooting techniques for a pair of external computer speakers. These tips work on Windows XP.

 

Start with the basics. Are the speakers plugged in? Are they powered on? Are they plugged into the computer correctly? Is sound muted on the computer? I know – it’s almost insulting to ask this, but a surprisingly high number of troubleshooting issues are solved by something this simple.

 

Check the speakers with a different device. If you can, plug them into a different computer or an MP3 player or other audio device. If they don’t work no matter what you plug them into, the problem is likely with the speakers. If the speakers do work in other devices, take them back to the original computer and move to the next step.

 

Check the sound drivers on your computer. That may be entirely new to you, but with this guide, you can do it yourself.

●     Click your Start menu (bottom left corner of your screen), and find “My Computer.” Right-click “My Computer” and choose “Properties” from the pop-up menu. Click the “Hardware” tab at the top of the properties box, then click the “Device Manager” button.

●     Click the plus sign icon to expand your “Sounds, video, and game controllers” list. Find your sound card – the name will depend on which brand controller was installed in your computer. It probably has the word “audio” in its title. If there’s a problem with the card, you’ll see an exclamation (!) notification on the sound card’s icon.

●     Double-click the sound card’s name. This will open a new window. In this new window, click the “Drivers” tab at the top. (If there is no “Drivers” tab, you might not have the correct entry for your sound card. Go back and repeat the last step.) You’ll see a “Driver Update” button on the “Drivers” tab – click that, then follow the Wizard’s instructions to update your sound card’s driver.

●     If your driver is up-to-date, click the button labeled “Uninstall Driver,” then restart your computer. When it restarts, the driver should reinstall automatically. If it doesn’t, visit the sound card manufacturer’s website to download the current driver installer.

 

Use Windows XP’s “Windows Troubleshooter” – it’s located on the “Drivers” tab from the steps above. Follow the instructions in the troubleshooter.

 

Check your warranty. If your PC is still covered by its warranty, contact your service provider and do not follow the next step. The final step may void your warranty; it is a last resort.

 

Check the actual sound card. Completely shut down and unplug your computer, unplugging all other cables from it, including peripherals and power cable. Open the CPU case. Touch a grounded object (doorknob, metal desk) before opening the case to discharge static electricity. Locate the audio plugs on the back of your CPU – the card they connect to on the inside is your sound card. Remove the sound card, check for dust on the card and in its slot. Put the sound card back in, making sure it’s seated firmly. You can find more detailed instruction for this step on the Microsoft website. Once the sound card is in place, close the CPU, plug all the cables back in, and boot your computer.

Posted in Computer, Laptop, Speakers | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Church Acoustics – Troubleshooting

Posted on June 14, 2011 by tanveers

The acoustics of a church are just as different as the churches themselves. The United States has hundreds of thousands, but fewer than 10 percent actually have good acoustics. There are no set standards for church acoustics, which leads to all sorts of problems. If someone can’t hear the sermon on the pew, they are more likely to not stay for mass. This leads to the problem of people leaving the congregation, fragmenting the community.

The solutions to acoustic problems, however, aren’t as easy as installing a few speakers. The look of a church is extremely important to its constituency. Most church officials cringe at the thought of having visible speakers. They view the church as an escape from the outside world.

The combination of bad acoustics and no speakers leads to the problem that people spend more time trying to hear the sermon. The problem is especially noticeable if you are sitting near the back of the pew. So, the question becomes how to have good acoustics and still have aesthetic appeal?

The answer to this question lies in planning for acoustics before you even build the church. You can plan for the acoustics and the frequency response. With so many churches already built, however, this isn’t the solution for everyone.

You may instead wish to have a contractor come in and help you figure out where you can improve your acoustics. Then, you can use the recommendations from the contractor to make repairs to your church. You must, however, ensure that your contractor knows what he’s doing. There are some things for you to pay attention to in the acoustical report.

First, follow around the consultant, and see how he takes the measurements. The report should include information on the frequency response of the room, and this measurement should range from 20 to 15,000 hertz. This report should also contain the reverberation length in 1/3rd octaves.

Generally, churches have a problem with the lower frequencies, especially between 130 and 800 Hertz. You should see a rating for the RT60 at different intervals, including the following: 100, 200, 400, 1,000 and 2,000 Hertz.

Examine the report, and look for how the contractor recommends fixing echoes. You should never use a flat surface system for these repairs. These products include carpet, fiber board panels and tiles. Bad contractors will try to convince you that these products work. They don’t so don’t hire that contractor for the job. You also shouldn’t paint over problems. Paint may actually increase the problem and not help it.

You also need to examine the shape of your room. Generally, the setup for a room should follow the below setup:

  • Use the rear wall to increase the pastor’s voice or enhance the sound of music.
  • Use your side wall to help with speech.
  • The front walls of the church can be used to enhance the church music or to increase the sound of congressional singing.

Always shop around for the best prices, but make sure that contractor doing the repairs is reputable. Most churches don’t have a lot of money to spend on needless repairs. If necessary, get a second opinion on the repair suggestions.

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Digital Cinema Technology – FAQs

Posted on April 26, 2011 by tanveers

This guideline will provide you with an overview of some of the most frequently asked questions about digital cinema technology. Whether you own home theatre equipment or are looking to purchase equipment, it is important that you are familiar with the technical issues that surround digital cinema. If you would like to rent audio and visual equipment for your home at a great price instead of purchasing it, check out AA Computer Rental http://aa-rental.com

What does DCI stand for?

DCI stands for Digital Cinema Initiatives. DCI is an organization that is owned by the major 6 motion picture studios. DCI released the first version of their Digital Cinema System Specifications in 2005. Although these specifications are not the standard, they do help owners of digital cinema technology understand the technical details of the equipment that they own.

What is the meaning of DCI compliant? Where can I obtain a list of products that are DCI compliant?

If a product is DCI compliant, it is in line with the previously mentioned specifications that were released in 2005. In order for a product to be considered DCI compliant, it must pass the DCI Compliance Test Plan. You can obtain a list of products that are officially DCI compliant by visiting the official DCI compliant website (http://www.dcimovies.com/compliance/).

How is content distributed if SMPTE standards are no long being used for distribution?

For content to be distributed today, it must meet an informal set of specifications that are known as Interop. Interop Digital Cinema Package are specifications that are designed to ensure that digital cinema that is released today is interoperable. However, it is important that you know that Interop DCP is not the same as SMPTE DCP compliant. Several of the features of built-in SMPTE DCP are not supported by Interop DCP.

Are the current digital cinema standards complete?

It can be said that a complete suite of both security standards and distribution standards are now in existence. However, it remains to be seen whether or not these digital cinema standards are finished and complete. It is difficult to determine if the distribution standards need to be revised at all because the most popular distribution format, SMPTE DCP, is not being used by any major motion picture studio at this time. To ensure that business operations run smoothly, it is believed that more work needs to be done on the suite of security standards, as well.

What is the meaning of NATO’s Digital Cinema System Requirements (NSR)?

NATO’s NSR are in place to describe the exhibition’s industry exact needs. NATO’s NSR are generally combined with the DCI specifications to form a finished collection of digital cinema requirements. Those requirements are then used to guide manufacturers, system provides, service providers, and standards committees. You can view NATO’s NSR by going to their website (http://natoonline.org/Digital.htm).

Can I figure out if a product is in compliance with NATO’s NSR and/or SMPTE standards?

Unfortunately, no organization currently exists to inform you if a product is in compliance with NATO’s NSR and/or SMPTE standards. When you are renting or purchasing digital cinema technology, look for a full set of specifications in the agreement that you sign. It is important that you know that products that claim to be DCI compliant may not be compliant with NATO’s NSR and/or SMPTE standards. You can then compare the specifications to determine if they are compliant. You can also obtain an approved list of products that are acceptable for digital studio distribution on the Disney website (http://digitalcinema.disney.com/).

Can I determine if a product is in compliance with accessibility requirements?

The SMPTE distribution standards include both accessible audio and closed captions. However, the DCI specifications do not include those features. When a product is DCI compliance tested, those accessibility features are not included. You can determine on your own if the product that you are purchasing meets accessibility requirements by viewing the Timeline for Accessibility (http://isdcf.com/papers/20091111-TimelineForAccessibility.pdf).

Where can I go to obtain additional information on the Inter-Society Digital Cinema Forum?

The ISDCF exists to socialize issues regarding digital cinema technology. Using the ISDCF to gather information on problems and results that arise in the digital cinema technology industry is a good idea. However, the ISDCF does not provide standards or compliance specifications that products must follow. You can obtain additional information on the ISDCF by visiting their website (http://www.isdcf.com/).

What are the main differences between 2K and 4K projection?

2K projection refers to a device that can project images that have around 2K vertical lines. In the digital cinema industry, a 2K image has a scope aspect ratio when it is 2.39:1 when delivered at 2048 x 858 pixels. A 2K image that has a flat aspect ratio is 1.85:1 when delivered at 1998 x 1080 pixels.

When an image is described as being 4K, the image has approximately 4K vertical lines. To have a scope aspect ratio, a 4K image must be 2.39:1 when delivered at 4096 x 1716 pixels. A 4K image has a flat aspect ratio when it is 1.85:1 at 3996 x 2160 pixels.

Is a 4K projection system needed to play 4K movies?

No, you can play a 4K movie on any 2K projection system without the need for modifications. A 2K projection system will use JPEG 2000 image compression technology to turn a 4K movie into a 2K movie. If you were playing a 2K movie on a 4K projection system, the projection system would scale the 2K movie for projection on a 4K system automatically.

Is it possible to use a single lens to project flat and scope images?

It depends on the requirements and specifications that you are going by. The NATO NSR states that you can use a single lens to project flat and scope images. However, many motion picture studios believe that the DCI specifications state that you should not use a single lens to project both types of images. Others interpret the DCI specifications as stating that while you can use a single lens, it is preferred that you use separate lenses to project the flat and scope images.

Can an anamorphic lens be used on a projector?

Some studios may accept the use of an anamorphic lens on a projector and some studios may not. However, using an anamorphic lens is the most effective method of taking advantage of the light that is available to the projector. Film relies on the spreading of images that are squeezed anamorphcially. A digital cinema projector, on the other hand, is capable of anamorphically re-mapping images on its own. You then only need the anamorphic lens to display the image correctly. By using an anamorphic lens on a digital cinema projector, the end result is an image that can light up a much larger screen when compared to a non-anamorphic projection technique. Using an anamorphic lens on a projector has been proven to be successful for large screen 3D presentations in the past.

What is the delivery method for security keys?

Security keys (KDMs) are delivered via a digital cinema server. Each server is only capable of having a single unique KDM. Within the KDM, which is the key delivery message, there is an encrypted security key. By using an encrypted security key, you are not able to project the video to the wrong location or server, which prevents any errors from impacting the security of the movie itself. You will need to have a digital certification in the media block of the projection system in order to create a KDM, which generally get sent to the exhibitor via email. You can obtain more information on creating a KDM by visiting the following Facility List Message website (http://www.mkpe.com/digital_cinema/faqs/tech_faqs.php#flm).

How is the Key Delivery Message controlled?

There are a couple of conditions that are associated with KDMs. They will only function for a single movie title on a single server, they will only function within the defined engagement time period, and they will only work if the projector that the server is connected to is on the KDMs authorized device list.

If you need to play the same movie on multiple servers, you will need to create multiple KDMs for the same movie title. When a KDM is created, it is set to only allow the movie to play based on the business needs of the studio that distributed the movie. Once the KDM expires after that engagement period, you will not be able to play the movie without a new KDM.

You will need two public keys to create a KDM, which are the public keys that are found in the certificate of the projector and the public key that is found in the media block. The digital certificates are then signed by digital cinema equipment’s manufacturer. People who are authorized to make KDMs know that they are working with trusted security keys because there are only a few manufacturers that produce digital cinema equipment and products.

Are there any other conditions that would prevent a movie from playing?

If tampering occurs with the security sub-system, the equipment that is associated with that sub-system will not function. If you are someone that owns digital cinema equipment, you will need to have someone on staff that the manufacturer has certified to complete repairs on the security components.

Checking with the manufacturer of the equipment is the best way to determine exactly who is qualified to handle the repairs.

According to the DCI certifications, if the server’s forensic marking system is failing to function, the movie will not be allowed to play. If someone were to make a camcorder copy of a movie, the forensic marking system of the server would enable authorities to track the exact location that the copy was made from. Studios also have the option of disabling the marking system, which would allow all copies of the movie made to be played.

What is a Facility List Message?

In digital cinema, a Facility List Message (FLM) is a file that contains all security information, such as digital certificates, that exist in protected playback equipment. The person that is creating a KDM will need the FLM in order to successfully create the KDM. It is best if the FLM is created by the person who owns the digital cinema equipment. The FLM would then be signed by the digital cinema equipment and sent to any people who are allowed to create KDMs for movies that were created on the aforementioned equipment. The information that is contained within the FLM will also be needed to create KDMs authorized device list.

Is a Theatre Management System needed?

There is no correct answer to this question. A Theatre Management System (TMS) allows owners of multiplex theatres to manage all of their screens from a centralized location. While not everyone needs a TMS, it is recommended that you have a certain component of the TMS, which is the Data and Key Management System (DKMS). You can purchase the DKMS independently of the TMS and it will allow you to manage all of your system data, such as your KDMs and FLMs.

What is the most important information to know about digital 3D?

In the digital cinema industry, 3D is a term that is used to characterize stereoscopic images, which is a system where both right and left images are projected on a 2D screen. 3D is also used to describe a viewing method for those images that allows for the human eye to only see the predetermined images. To achieve the stereoscopic image effect, the left eye must see an image that is different from the image that the right eye is seeing.

For regular 3D display methods, a single distribution method works. However, for digital 3D display method, a single inventory is the needed distribution method. If you have a Real D installation, you will need a rigged version of the updated 3D distribution method.

There are several techniques that are available today for creating 3D images. For viewing 3D images that a single digital projector projects, there are only 3 “add-on” technologies that are available. The main types of add-on technologies are active glasses and polarized glasses.

Many exhibitors are beginning to show interest in a dual projection technique for projecting 3D images. The cost of the dual projector is similar to the cost of additional 3D technology. The dual projector also allows for larger screens to be lit up.

Is a single projector capable of producing 3D images with full color representations?

The answer to that question is no. A single projector can only produce 3D images in 4:2:2 color representation. Full color representation is 4:4:4. To achieve full color representation, you will need to display 2D images using a single projector. However, if you have a dual projector, it is possible that your server will support full color representation. Many studios will not allow the use of dual projectors, though, because of the alignment difficulties that are associated with them.

Are there any specific questions that I should ask a provider of digital cinema systems?

There are some basic questions that you should pose to your digital cinema systems provider. However, it is important that you know that you may get difference answers from different providers because they may implement the Theatre Management System in a different way. Those differences may have an impact on both the policies of the exhibitor and system security.

One of the most important questions that you should ask is how long will it take to take a movie from auditorium to auditorium. You should also ask if the TMS will notify your main office when new KDMs and content arrives, as well as when KDMs are due to expire in X amount of days. Knowing who will maintain the TMS and if different Service Level Agreements are available are both good questions to pose to the provider, as well.

It is very important that you ask the provider if the TMS that they use is capable of creating a security log that you can alter and approve. According to the DCI specifications, the movie distributor has a right to request a security log. However, both the SMPTE standards and DCI specifications allow the exhibitor to remove some delicate data from the security log. You should also find out if the TMS allows the exhibitor to control how the security log is transmitted to the movie distributor.

In the digital cinema industry, what work remains?

The latest information technology is needed for the digital cinema industry. While much work remains, there is some work that is more important than others. In the United States, FIPS security standards, which are critical to the DCI specifications, are governed by NIST. NIST frequently makes changes to the standards, which is not acceptable to the worldwide digital cinema industry. As of January 2010, NIST made changes that made KDMs in digital cinema useless. DCI now has to decide whether they want to allow digital cinema equipment to become useless as NIST makes those changes.

An automated process is also needed that can handle the delivery of KDMs. As of now, KDMs are delivered through personal email. Due to frequent personnel changes, it is difficult to determine if the KDMs were successfully received. An automated system would guarantee the arrival of the KDMs.

A single, automatic method is also needed that will allow for the delivery and management of files. Once a content distributor sends files to an exhibitor, they need to be able to confirm that the files were received. Exhibitors then need to be able to log and manage the files as they arrive.

To insure that projectors can be sold at the best price, media blocks need to become a commodity. Being that media blocks are now being used in most projectors, it would be cost effective if they became a DCI compliant commodity. The hardware that is external to the server should also become a DCI compliant commodity so that projectors can be made available for the least amount of money.

Much work is also needed in the area of security log management. There is no method currently in place that allows exhibitors to have oversight over how security logs are managed, as well as having access to the tools that are needed to filter security logs to remove sensitive information before the logs are sent to the movie distributor.

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How to Fix a Laptop

Posted on April 10, 2011 by tanveers

Having a laptop that isn’t functioning properly is never a fun thing to deal with. You have to remember that a laptop is essentially a desktop computer stuffed into a small package, which means they are more prone to malfunctions. Luckily, there are some common issues that you can fix on your own in a matter of no time. If you need another laptop while you are fixing yours, consider renting one from AA Computer Rental (http://aa-rental.com/).

Screen Issues

Laptop screens can break very easily, especially if you drop the computer on the floor, sit on it, or toss it. If your laptop screen has sustained any damage, you may notice several different malfunctions, such as scratches and color spots. If your laptop is still under warranty, see if you can get the screen fixed for free. If not, shop around for a screen that you can attach yourself. There are generally only a few screws and a cable that attach the screen to the laptop.

Power Supply Issues

Believe it or not, it is not uncommon for the power supply plug to become stuck in the computer. Over time, the port may loosen from the frame on the laptop, as well. Accessing the power supply port on a laptop can be extremely difficult. If you are experiencing such an issue, you may want to consider letting the professionals handle this one. Sometimes it is cheaper to just mount an external power supply to the laptop and forget about the broken internal one.

Spyware

Unfortunately, all computer users are going to have to deal with spyware at one point in time. You can get spyware from accessing an unsafe website, from e-mails, as well as many other sources. If you have spyware, you may notice that your computer is running slow or you can’t connect to the Internet. To fix this issue on your own, simply download a free antispyware program, such as SuperAntiSpyware or Spyware Terminator. All you have to do is download and install the program and then run a scan. The program will then make recommendations to you on what to do with the affected files that were found.

Registry Issues

When you install a program and then remove it, you may end up with redundant files in your registry. If you have any spyware or viruses on your laptop, you may end up with missing and/or corrupted registry files, as well. Registry issues are not something that you should take lightly, but luckily, you can usually fix them on your own. When you have registry issues, you may find that your computer is running slow or that you can’t access certain files and programs. To clean up your registry, download and install CCleaner, which is a free program. Not only will CCleaner fix your registry for you, it will also empty your recycle bin and remove other unneeded browser information, such as cookies and cached webpages, all of which slow your computer down.

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Laptop Accessories

Posted on March 31, 2011 by tanveers

Did you know that more people are now buying laptop computers instead of desktop computers? Laptops can offer you the same performance that a desktop does, plus you get a portable computer that you can bring with you. However, due to the small size of a laptop, they sometimes don’t have certain accessories that you may be interested in using. Luckily, you can purchase most of those accessories and simply connect them to your laptop. If you are in the market for a new laptop, consider renting one from AA Computer Rental (http://aa-rental.com/).

External Monitor

If you are a gamer or you use your laptop to watch movies, an external monitor is something that may be of interest to you. Given their small size, laptops don’t usually come with a large screen size. Most laptops these days come with a port that enables you to connect a monitor to the laptop. LCD monitors don’t cost much, and you can rent them from AA Computer Rental, too.

Wireless Mouse

Using the mouse pads that come with laptops can be a real pain sometimes, especially if you are trying to get to a file or website quickly. If you don’t want to be bothered with using the built-in mouse pad, consider purchasing a wireless mouse. Wireless mice are extremely affordable and most electronics retailers sell them. You can purchase both battery operated and rechargeable models.

Signal Enhancer

Trying to connect to the Internet via a wireless connection can be difficult at times with a laptop. The wireless adapters that come with laptops are usually cheaply made, which means you won’t get the best connection. To fix this issue, you can purchase a signal enhancer, which plugs directly into the USB port on your laptop.

Carrying Case

Dropping your laptop is one of the worse things that you can ever do. You could break the laptop screen or damage one of the many delicate parts that are inside of the computer. If you travel often, a carrying case is a must. There are many types of laptop carrying cases available, such as professional carrying cases, briefcases, and backpacks.

Charger

If you have ever owned a laptop in the past, you have probably had the misfortune of dealing with a broken charger. That is why you should always have a spare charger on hand at all times. Without that spare charger, you may have to go weeks without your laptop while you wait for the new one to be delivered.

Cooling Pad

Laptops are known for overheating, especially if the fan is located on the bottom of the laptop. A cooling pad will come with multiple fans that pull the heat away from your laptop, which prevents overheating. Cooling pads connect to your laptop via a USB port.

Bluetooth Adapter

Many mobile phones and other portable devices are Bluetooth enabled these days. If you hook a Bluetooth adapter up to your laptop via its USB port, your laptop will be able to communicate with your cell phone or other Bluetooth enabled portable devices. That makes it easy for you to transfer files, songs, and much more between the laptop and device.

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