Saturday, 17 April 2010
Introduction - video, satellite
This is a great overview of modern video technology and achieves the authors' goal, namely "easy to understand explanations of the entire world of video."
Each chapter is pretty much self-supporting, so you don't have to read the entire book cover to cover. Having said that, the book is a fairly quick read. The copious illustrations are clear and the use of real world equipment is helpful to those that may be exposed to it.
This isn't the book to give detail about ever single aspect of a topic, but it certainly gives you enough to make use of the more specialised texts. How Video Works, Second Edition: From Analog to High Definition
This book is very straight forward and a pretty easy read (depending on the section). It is great at explaining many topics I've been wondering about. Great source of information for the beginning broadcast engineer, or to refresh for anyone.
When i started to read this book, I could no longer stop with to reading it.
It's reads so nice and everything is explained so clearly.
That is what i've to say about it.
If you want to know more about video, go buy this book. it really helps alot. - Introduction - Video - Satellite - Direction'
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Shopping
This contains mostly the same information that is in her previous book "Cashing in at the Checkout" except that she adds some new information regarding automatic coupon dispensors and other technological advancements. Other than that, this book contains a more extensive write up on competition between major grocery chains, wholesale clubs and food companies. This is used to explain why food companies make coupons and why grocery stores have sales. Simply put, they want loyal customers who will always shop at their store or buy their products. Susan Samtur points out however that the super shopper does not fall under the spell of store or brand loyalty. The super shopper stratigically shops so that he will maximize savings without sacrificing quality. There is not too much of a difference in quality between major name brands and coupon users always buy name brand products.There are hardly any people who wouldn't benefit from reading this book except the extremely rich. Most would like to save more money. Cutting down one's grocery bill puts a lot of money in the bank. Through using rebates over the years, the author was able to put $35,000.00 into her son's college fund. One of the most extrodinary stories given in the book however is that of a man who purchased $869.79 of groceries on one trip using coupons with only $2.16! It sounds a bit too good to be true, but after looking into it, I can see how something like this is possible with some effort. People don't save nearly as much money on groceries as they could because they simply don't want to go through the trouble of sitting down and strategically planning for a shopping trip using coupons. The Super Coupon Shopping System: Ingenious New Ways to Save $$$$ on Every Shopping Bill
Wow! I'm a struggling college student, and a co-worker showed me this book. After I read it, I just had to get the other two written by Susan as well! This book outlines her amazing plan for saving up to 90% on your grocery bill! She has bought $130 worth of groceries for only $7.00 - isn't that amazing? My first shopping trip after reading, I saved $19.00 on a $60.00 purchase.That's almost 30%. But as you get more familiar and comfortable with her system, you'll be consistently saving 60 and 70% on your grocery bills. Exciting to read, and well-formatted, this book is a definite stay in my personal library!'
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Shopping Shopping Shopping
Dining Tables - strathwood, cast aluminum
Bought this table after a major wind/rain storm blew my glass one upside down and it broke in a million pieces. Figured all metal would be better, and also it has holes in it so the wind would pass right through and it would not be blown away. It was delivered within three days, but was missing the hardware. I called Amazon and was told they could not send me out "just the hardware," so they would have to send out a whole new table. They also said they would send a truck to pick up the first table. Sure enough, within three more days, the truck had come to pick up the first table, and I had the new one, with the hardware intact. My son put it together in less than 10 minutes. It is absolutely beautiful. Very strong and sturdy. I have received so many compliments on it. Glasses stand upright and do not tip over if place on the spaces, as the spaces are very small. The color is great, too. The chairs I have are still in very good condition, so I wanted to keep them, but was concerned because they are black wrought iron. Well, they blend in just fine with the brown table and do not clash. The brown is very dark. I would buy this table again, have no regrets about this purchase, or dealing with Amazon. They resolved my problem quickly and thoroughly. Absolutely satisfied with everything!!! Strathwood St. Thomas Cast Aluminum Round Dining Table
The reviews were half correct. Yes the table is very easy to assemble; yes the scroll work on the table is beautiful. However, where the reviews fall very short is the size of the table. There is no way that a 48" round table will seat 6 comfortably, let alone 8 cozy as the other review stated. A 48" round table is meant for 4 people. Also, it would be EXTREMELY helpful if Amazon posted the deminsions.
This is a great table. Amazon shipped it quickly and it was easy to put together. The scroll design is gorgeous. The color is a dark, bronze, brown with very small flecks of silver. The brown is dark enough that it coordinates with our black chairs. The size is generous and can comfortably seat up to six people. We are really enjoying our new patio table.
Although the Strathwood St. Thomas Cast Aluminum Round Dining Table is good looking and of good value for the price, I want to caution future buyers about purchasing anything beyond books and small items on Amazon. I was SHOCKED to see the feeble packing of a 52 pound heavy table. The box was crushed, there was no padding around the table top and it was wrapped in the cheapest paper--equivalent to tissue. When I asked Amazon to reimburse me for the damage, they only offered $20 and the business manager was RUDE. Beware of Amazon's shipping technique--that is the lack of it!
This product is a dark speckled brown, which is hard to see from the picture on the web, but which goes well with our adobe-colored house. The table is fairly light, making it easy to move. The feet are of adjustable height, which is welcome on our slightly uneven patio. I did have to push on a couple of parts to get them to line up during assembly - a couple of screw holes could have been a little better aligned - but I was able to assemble the table by myself with only basic tools. I recommend starting by screwing all the screws in halfway, and then adjusting from there. After half a year outside, there are no problems. The hole in the middle fit a standard-size outdoor umbrella we already had. The biggest plus was the price, only a fraction of the cost of other comparable patio tables I've seen. If you find cast-iron tables to be too heavy and expensive, this is certainly worth a look.
This set suddenly became unavailable just after we got ours which was a shame because a number of family and friends told me they went to look for it and it was no longer available. This set is awesome! The table and chairs are just a tad higher than usual and with tall people in my family, they are very impressed. The tables had to be assembled but were VERY easy to assemble. I put them together before my husband got home from work. They were all packaged beautifully! Delivery was quick and we are so glad we ordered when we did because, apparently, the set was very popular!
I am delighted with my Strathwood cast aluminum table !
I am also very satisfied with the excellant service that Amazon.com has provided with this order.
I had a minor problem and it was handeled with swift and fair resolve.
I had seen this table last year and loved it, but felt that I could not afford it.
I am glad that I didn't "settle" for something else
I live on a golf course, so the metal top is definitely what I need.
Besides being practical, it is beautiful, rich in styling, very elegant !
It arrived swiftly, in great condition and was simple for me to put together.
I am an elder, senior woman and I put it together, with no help, in less than two hours.
I would reccomend this product and Amazon's great service to anyone.
I just finished putting this table together. Took me just a few minutes. It's the perfect size for our deck and looks very lovely. It's sturdy and well made. I've paired it off with the matching Strathwood St. Thomas Swivel Dining Arm Chairs. Gorgeous and Classy.
really like the table, and for a great price. however, shipment did not come with hardware package (turns out it is only 16 bolts). tried for two weeks to contact Strathwood and the support vendor website that came with the matching chairs I purchased, but absolute radio silence. didn't want to return and luckily found assembly instructions .pdf on amazon. those instructions has spec's for the bolts, so went to hardware store and bought for $5 and got it together. Summary - great product for the price as long as you don't need any support.
I love the table including its looks, the craftsmanship, and functionality. The table came in a box with a hole that was taped up. The contents didn't include any hardware--just a small empty zip-lock bag. I tried to contact the manufacturer to get my hardware with no success. I could not let myself use resources to send back a 50 lb. package in order to get a few ounces of missing hardware, I got the necessary bits from my local Ace Hardware. I am not happy about the extra expense. In the future, I will be more cautious about ordering items that need assembling from Amazon. - Dining Table - Strathwood - Cast Aluminum - Patio Furniture'
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Grooming Tools - dog grooming, grooming tools
Purchased this in the LARGE size (MEANT FOR MEDIUM TO LARGE-SIZED DOGS) to clip my German Shepherd's nails and sorry I did. It's not sharp enough and doesn't cut well, no matter how I hold it and instead of cutting his nails, it crushes, cracks and splinters them. In addition, this is made very flimsy with the handles flexing and bending during use and the blade assembly flexing and not cutting straight. Judging by the way he squirmed and whined, it must hurt him too. (The professional scissor-type version wasn't any better either.) It might work better for a smaller dog, but not for a larger one. Will not use this again. Instead, bought a Dremel brand nail grinder with a rechargeable battery pack which works wonderfully and he doesn't mind getting his nails done at all. Hope this helps some pet avoid discomfort. Safari Guillotine Large Nail Trimmer
I don't usually leave reviews but was so thrilled with these clippers I had to. We've had nothing but problems trying to get our dogs nails clipped. We have resorted to using knock out pills given to us by our vet. I hated doing it and knew there had to be something out there to help us. I found these. The reason they work for us is they are virtually noiseless. I think what bothered her the most was hearing the click of our other clippers. These make no noise and she actually lets us clip her nails! Wonderful clippers. Think I may buy another pair just in case they ever stop making them!
We had misplaced the trimmer we've had for several years, so I ordered this one. The first time I used this on my cat's first claw, she actually yelped in agony.
The explanation is simple: Look at the two photos I've loaded above, and examine the cutting head of each tool. I rubberbanded the handles on both tools closed so the cutting action can be observed.
In the first photo of the older Lambert Kay trimmer (we finally found it), you'll see the two pieces of the cutting head are parallel and tight against each other. This allows for a clean cut of the claw.
Now examine the second photo of the Safari trimmer: Note how the gap between the two pieces. The claw gets caught in that space, and instead of a clean cut, gets crushed.
The original French guillotine was considered to be a device of terror, so this Safari trimmer is aptly named. I immediately returned this to Amazon for a refund, and I would highly suggest avoiding its purchase.
I purchased this nail trimmer to use on our family's rat terrier. It works well enough. However, sometimes it doesn't cut quite all away through the nail and I have to re-trim the nail. This isn't the best dog nail trimmer around, but it will do the job for small to mid-size dogs. I have a friend who has a pet bird and though this nail trimmer is marketed more towards dogs, she uses it for her bird without any problems.
There are, of course, different types of nail trimmers for cats and dogs on the market, but I find the guillotine type to be the easiest to use by far. It works best for me if I hold it upside down. You simply insert the claw into the circle and snip, just like you were using wire cutters. My cats were a little hesitant at first, but, once I got better at it (which is to say, able to do it more quickly), they got much better at enduring it. I probably don't trim as closely as the vet would - I basically just take the barb off the claw, but by using it on a regular basis, it keeps them from getting stuck in the carpet. It's scary the first couple of times you use it, of course. It helps to have an accomplice to hold the animal and a styptic pencil nearby just in case you cut to the quick and draw blood. I've never even come close to cutting them that short, but I feel better just knowing I have the styptic pencil handy, just in case.
My little one didn't mind these clippers to much until they started getting dull.
These are just ok. Fairly well made. Get dull quickly. And I can't seem to find replacement blades anywhere. So it's a case of..when dull you have to continually buy a new one.
The clippers do what they are supposed to do. They are not the highest quality but for the price, it is to be expected. If you just take a little care when you use them and file the edges, you will be fine.
Clipper does it's job. The cutter doesn't stay close to the nail holder though when it is used, there is a gap. Makes nail cutting a bit harder. I turn it around the "wrong" way to use it so that it clips better. As long as it holds up for a few years it will be worth the purchase.
I'm not 100% thrilled with this product. My dog never used to care when I touched her paws but now that I tried to clip them, I think it splintered the nails which is making her very afraid. I think I leave the nail clipping to the groomer or vet. - Dog Grooming - Dog Nail Clippers - Pet Grooming Tool - Grooming Tools'
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Universal Remote - harmony, harmony one
My wife bought me this remote for Christmas after not being able to find a Harmony 700 in the stores.
This is my first UR that does more than your basic cheap UR.
I had asked for a Harmony One but my wife didn't want to spend that much on "just a remote" for me. So she proceeded to look for a Harmony 700. Mind you she waited until the last week before Christmas to start shopping.
Well, Christmas morning rolled around and I opened the box fully expecting to find a 700 and instead found the ARRX15G. She said the stores were all out of the Harmony 700 and that this one was recommended by a sales person as a viable alternative.
I waited a few days before I opened it because I was trying to find reviews online but they all seemed extreme either for or against the remote. Having never used a higher end universal remote I figured what the heck I'd give it a shot. Worse case I'd just return it.
After installing the software and going through the initial device install. I was pleasantly surprised at the flexibility of this remote. I use it to control 4 different devices - a Sony KDFE42A10 television, an Onkyo TXSR606 reciever, a Sony BDP350 bluray player, and an older Sony DVD Player.
I like the button layout and find that I was able to memorize the layout rather quickly.
A day later I decided that I wanted to add a couple of Activities and change some of the color buttons for functions that I use most often. Although, this took some time, about 30 minutes, it was very easy to follow the software and to make the changes I wanted to.
My wife paid $80 for this remote and I am rather satisfied with it. with the money she saved over getting the Harmony 700 she bought me a few blu-rays.
Again, I have never used a Harmony remote so I can't compare the two but for my uses, as simple as they may be, this remote works very well. It's nice not having to juggle 4 remotes on my side table just to watch a movie. Acoustic Research ARRX15G Xsight Color Universal 15 Device Remote Control
I received this items as a gift for Christmas. My second Harmony remote is coming apart (older one had a failed LCD). My initial impression was that the remote has a better display, fit, and finish than the mid-level Harmony line. Unfortunately, during the software update process, two of these locked up and then became nothing more than $80 door stops (remotes will not even power up). After 2 calls to support, I'm still not pleased(one hold for 15 minutes, then disconnected). Call 2 took ~14 minutes with the resolution being "exchange it".
If you choose to buy this remote, do so with caution (and buy it locally). The manufacturer's software implementation is worse than Logitech's, and support is sub-standard. Here's hoping Best Buy is restocked early next week.
PROS: Attractive well built, nice screen, great back-light, huge online device codes database, code learning
feature for unknown codes, each family member has their own Favs, a good choice for the novice do-it-
yourself Home Theater user, good value for price.
CONS: Big, on heavy side, batteries don't last long enough, some buttons too small and too close together,
website not designed for the more experienced user creating custom command strings(macros), slower to
use than standard remote due to screen lookups, Favs must be added online.
Any remote controlling a Home Theater type of multiple electronic devices requires some level expertise of programming remotes, else you are going to be frustrated. But I will say this remote will require the least expertise if you follow the Manual step-by-step religiously, because XSight has gone out of their way to make setting up a complex A/V system about as easy as it is going to get. The trade-off is if you have more expertise and want to jump right in creating or customizing your own command strings, it is not as friendly to you. NOTE: The XSight website provided to help you through the setup requires a Windows ONLY XP w/Service Pac 2 or later O/S, and Internet Explorer ONLY browser, and when you are connected to the PC, even when the Remotes display is not light, its processor is still running and it will quickly discharge alkaline batteries.
Now for the possible disappointments to some. This remote is big, 9" X 2 1/4", and heavy 3/4Lb. But any remote with this size screen will likely be as large. There is a trade-off. Secondly, it uses 3 AA batteries so this will add to the weight if you use standard alkaline, which you will not want to because it will use them fairly quickly, especially if you hooked up to the PC USB. You will want to get lighter and rechargeable NiMH batteries at some point, and I would suggest the Hybrids or PreCharged NiMH's because they will not self-discharge as fast as standard NiMH's, important for a remote just lying around most of the time. In this Remotes favor, it does an excellent job of automatically turning itself off, letting you choose the on time, and letting you choose to use the Auto-On Tilt motion detector or not, when you pick it up. I would turn Tilt-Off, especially if you use non-rechargeable alkaline batteries since one press of any button turns on the display, but the Tilt feature works very well.
What I liked the most about this Remote is the ability to organize channel Favs into categories, called Profiles, with a title and even a logo or picture of your choice, for example Mom, Dad, Kids, Educational, News etc. What I didn't like is how small and close together some of the keys were, especially the screen control key, the ones you will find your using the most because each most screens only show three choices, and the scrolling to get to what you want can be a pain, even with back-lighting. Why they choose to make all the other keys almost too big (if that's possible :) ), and the screen control ones so small and close together, is know only to them I guess.
I will point out the screen control bar has been moved away from other keys and made bigger on the XSight Touch screen model of this remote, though the other small key have not. The difference between the Touch and this Color XSight model, aside from the much higher cost, is just three things; the screen is a Touch instead of this models side keys, it uses a proprietary LiION rechargeable battery with stand like a cell phone or ipod, and it is RF ready meaning it can control an optional RF Extender to replace the limited distance Infrared(IR) standard used in all remotes. Otherwise the models are exactly the same using the same
layout(with the one scroll bar mentioned above), same firmware/features, and same website software for setup.
Bottom line for me, if you are not able to setup a more complicated A/V arrangement and do not want to hire an A/V installer, then this Remote may very well do the job for you at the cost or less than an Installer visit. At the same time, you will have the trade-offs of size, weight, battery life, and need to scroll screens to get to certain buttons available on screen only. One big advantage to screened soft-buttons however is you will now have access to almost all of all your original remotes buttons in one place and you can even assign ones of your choice to any hard button on the remote, exchanging the buttons original function for one you prefer, for each of your A/V Devices.
However, if you are more experienced Home Theater sort of A/V equipment, then the online website is not as flexible and friendly as you would find at say, Logitech's Harmony line site, but you can get what you want out of this remote, just with more time and head-scratching getting past the novice 'hand-holder' step-by-step software approach.
If you choose this Color Model for the price advantage over the Touch, then be sure to get rechargeable AA Hybrid batteries. Hybrids are chargeable using the same NiMH charger you may already have. They will not self-discharge when not in use like standard rechargeables. Be advised the Touch Screen will not solve the small control buttons too close together, though the Touch's bigger and space away scroll bar will to some degree. The nice advantage to the Color's AA use is, unlike cell phone and ipod batteries, AA are available anywhere and are not expensive like proprietary LiIONs found in the Touch.
Hope this has helped those trying to make a choice here, and it is worth reading the other reviews found here and at Amazon's XSight Touch Model page to get other pros/cons. I would say this remote is a good buy for the money, but certainly not for $100 to $299 price sold else where. Fyi, the Xsight is exactly the same product as the Nevo line sold to Installers at $299. It is also sold under the Audiovox label.
Happy Shopping! - Harmony One - Acoustic Research - Universal Remote Control - Harmony'
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Panasonic Cordless Phone - answering machine, dect cordless phone
When researching our next cordless, expandable phone system, I found that AT&T and Panasonic phones were getting the best reviews. My requirements were as follows:
1. Phone system must not interfere with my wireless network;
2. Phone base must be wall mountable;
3. Phone base must have an answering machine that would also provide an audible message alert (and a message count would also be nice);
4. Speakerphone on the handsets and base;
5. A shared, central phone book.
6. A Voicemail indicator (for phone company/VOIP voicemail);
7. A lighted number pad.
I spend about 3 weeks researching over 30 models and browsing manuals. I originally was going for a 5.8GhZ AT&T model (#E5924) that I later found was also operating on a 2.4GhZ frequency that may have interfered with my wireless network, as my current 2.4GhZ cordless does (it slightly impairs my wireless network speed). So, I scratched that model, and all the 5.8GhZ category, and decided to find a Dect 6.0 just to avoid any potential problems.
Very feature-rich were nearly all of the Panasonic models, with Talking Caller ID and ringer ID. But, how they can advertise as wall-mountable I don't know. I checked the manuals for the models I was most interested in, and every single model mounted like a shelf. Very unappealing. And none had an audible message alert. Panasonic phones mostly have a blinking light to inform you of messages. I had an older Panasonic model years ago and always missed messages because of the lack of an audible alert. This combined with the ugly wall-mounting made me have to scratch Panasonic off of my list. Shame, because I really liked the features (Talking Caller ID, Ringer ID, Light ID, Caller ID Block).
I found many reviews touting the AT&T SL82418 Dect 6.0 system. Apparently Consumer Reports had highly rated this model and everyone ran out to buy it. It's wall-mountability was acceptable (still not flat on the wall, but not overly extending like the shelf-like Panasonics). It's features satisfied all of my requirements (though it did not have the bells and whistles of the Panasonics, which I still had on my mind). But -- and this may seem silly -- I found the phone system itself ugly. Silver and gray with black backs. Way too much going on.
Instead of looking new, to me they looked gaudy and old-fashioned. The phones themselves looked sleek and stream-lined, but AT&T's choice of using more than 1 color on the front just ruined it (in my opinion). Amazon informed me there was a newer model out, the CL82409, which was far more attractive to me. Simple silver handsets with black backs. Base is simple silver and black also. LCD screens and back light is orangey instead of blue. I was put off by the lack of reviews on the newer model, but when I checked the manuals, found very little difference between it and the previous SL82418 model, except:
1. No headset jack;
2. You CAN check the ans. machine messages from the handsets (cannot do this on the SL82418.
3. The base does not mount as flat and is a little shorter/more compact.
So, I canceled my order for the SL82518 (a five handset system instead of 4 handsets) and placed an order for the CL82509 system. Set up was simple (after 16 hour charging).
Pros:
*I use Vonage (disconnected the incoming Telco lines and have Vonage back-fed through every phone jack in the house) and the sound is crystal clear with these phones.
*You can check the caller id log when the phone is in use (not all phone systems allow this), and the display shows the time and date always (also a rarity).
*You can listen to the answering machine messages from any handset even when the phone is in use.
*The numbers are etched through the silver on the handset buttons, and the amber light shines through them clearly. Nice for nighttime dialing;
*No interference from the microwave, or network, and all phones crystal clear from the basement to the 2nd floor.
*Very easy to save caller id entries into the shared phone book. Saves the last 50 caller id entries and 50 phone book entries.
*I have the answering machine set to 4 rings, and if I don't answer the caller ID or the phone is busy, my Vonage voice mail will take the
message, after which the Voicemail LCD lights up on the base and there is an indicator on the handset LCD.
*When the answering machine takes a message, there is an audible beep every so often that reminds you of the message (you can disable the audible alert if this bothers you -- again, I find this useful and necessary) and the base will show you how many messages you have.
*Easy to do a three-way call using the flash button.
*Intercom is easy.
*Handset speakers are nice and clear with good volume;
*Handset ringers are nice and loud;
*This system is expandable up to 12 handsets, and the handsets themselves are decently priced.
Cons:
*No headset jack;
*No speakerphone in base (can only hear incoming messages and answering machine messages);
*Wall-mounting is not flat to the wall, extends approximately 4 inches at the bottom. Not a big deal if you have it mounted where no one will walk into it.
*Can not assign ring tones to names in your directory. Even my old Radio Shack did that. I could almost stop thinking about the Panasonics' Talking Caller ID if I were at least able to assign ring tones to certain names so I'd know who it was calling by the ring tone.
*Handsets feel light to me. That may be a Pro in time but still have to get used to it.
All-in-all, minor quibbles. I would recommend this system, unless you don't care about the audible message alert and/or wall mounting, in which case I'd try a Panasonic for the neat features (Talking Caller ID, etc.).
Whatever you decide, make sure you Google the manual before buying. I found many websites gave either incorrect information regarding features or left out key features entirely. AT&T DECT 6.0 Black/Silver Digital 4-Handset Answering System (CL82409) - Dect Cordless Phone - Dect 6 - Cordless Phone - Answering Machine'
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1080p Lcd Hdtv - 120hz, 1080p lcd hdtv
I bought this TV after reading alot of reviews and a few visits to store to compare different 32" size TVs offered by Sony, Samsung, LG and Panasonic. This was among the best and top of the line Samsung 'LCD' 1080p HDTV model in 32 inch series. Finally I narrowed down my search to Sony's Bravia 32" KDL32EX400 and Samsung's LNC530 and LNC550.
All 3 HDTVs have a lot of things in common like 1080p res, 60Hz refresh rate, CCFL LCD Panel, HDMI/USB ports, Picture-in-Picture support etc, but there are also some diffs among these three. Samsung LNC550 stood out from the former (Sony KDL32EX400) in the following features.
--USB Media Player. The USB Media Player on Samsung is way ahead than any of its competitors. This things plays a wide variety of video/audio codecs (avi,mkv,mp4,H264,DivX, Xvid,MPEG1,MPEG2). You name it and they have it. It also supports the 5.1 audio (DTS Core, A52/AC3) and subtitle (.srt) files. Ofcourse, USB Media player functions faster and easily when u browse media using USB Hard Drive.
--DLNA 'All Share' Network Streaming. This is something really important for me in a TV since I have most of my media files on PC. The same USB Media Player in this TV also plays 'flawlessly' a number of audio/video (720p HD) streams directly from your PC. All you need is, connect your TV to your Wireless router (wired connection) and then share your media files via the home WiFi network. You can use either Samsung's PC Share Manager software or Windows 7 Media Player to share your PC media contents. (Both LNC530 and KDL32EX400 lack this)
--Supports an affordable Samsung LinkStick Wireless adapter which connects your TV to broadband router wirelessly.
--Connectivity Options (2 USB 2.0 ports, since more USB ports means you can connect more USB devices)
--Intuitive Samsungs Remote controls
--Intuitive OnScreen Menu Navigation
--Easy to reach touch buttons on front panel.
--Better Quality and material used in frame.
--Aesthetic, Clean Design and Looks. Samsung LN32C550 32-Inch 1080p 60 Hz LCD HDTV (Black)
I knew I wanted a samsung HDTV because I have heard great things from friends who know more about technology than I do. I have not been disappointed in the least with my purchase. The tv has great sound and picture quality both in dark/dim lighting as well as in a sun drenched room. The tv is in a bedroom which it is a perfect size for. It was easy set up, I did it alone. The box does say to have two people work on it but definitely possible to do alone if no one is around and you are impatient. For set up you will need a Phillips head screw driver. The only downside which has nothing to do with the tv directly was that fedex left the package on my front stoop when I was not home and it comes in a factory box with a picture of the tv on the box, just something to be cautious of if you order this product.
The TV was great while it worked. However it went to "black" the first week and we called Samsung, who had us UPS the new TV to them for repair. I spent a lot of money on a TV to not be able to watch it! We did get the TV back from Samsung, and it now works fine. I am suspicious that it is a "refurbished" unit as the TV had a "R" behind the serial number when I bought it from Amazon and I could not take it to a local shop, but had to mail it back to Samsung. At any rate I am happy with it as it is now.
This was my first adventure into HDTV and LCD TV's, but I'm a technology buff, so advanced tech doesn't scare me (I actually enjoy it). My first impressions with this TV were the great resolution while watching Blu-ray movies (what I really think these screens are good for) and that the comments about HD shows and their "flawed" personalities was right on (ha!) I've connected the TV to a cable box and Sony Blue Ray player - so now I have three big remotes that all do different things. I'm considering a universal remote to solve this problem. I don't understand why the TV plays a tune when turning on and off and I can't find in the manual how to stop this from happening. The internet options look interesting, though I've only tried YouTube so far. YouTube videos play, but they look really poor because of the compression put on them and they don't have the same controls that are available on the web site. Standard cable TV doesn't look very good either because of the quality of the signal. Those old channels were much clearer on my old "tube" TV than with this new one. I mostly stay in the HD channels because of it. Most of these complaints have nothing to do with the Samsung TV and that's why I gave it 5 stars anyway. I just want any new HDTV folks to not be surprised by the quality of standard programming.
I am nothing but pleased with this TV. It's sharp, clear, bright, and really good looking to boot.
I have it hooked up to a Mac Mini and setup and connection between the two was very easy.
This TV was listed locally for $650. The Amazon.com sale price ($499) could not be beat at the time.
I highly recommend this TV.
I got this TV on June 3rd 2010. Easy to install. Its working very well as of today. HD picture quality is amazing. Sound is not bad. I play movies and videos from my external hard drive(using usb 2.0). Its user friendly. On a whole, its a nice TV.
I heard of going green, but I didn't want my picture to be green. I had this set with the green shades and talked to Samsung they said to send it to NJ to be fixed, came back the same way, I don't think theyt did anything. Emailed Vann's they said send it back and they sent me another new set. At first it seemed OK, but the picture just keeps getting greener and greener, especially the shaadows. I called Samsung about this new set, they said something is wrong inside send it to NJ to be repaired. Well I've been through that, I guess I'm just stuck with a bad TV, Samsung will never sell me another. - 120hz - 1080p Lcd Hdtv - Samsung Lcd - 32 Inch'
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Athletic Equipment
These are excellent wraps but as people have noticed are junior wraps. As such, they're 108" long and are good for teens or women with smaller hands.
Men should use 180" wraps. Everlast sell full length mexican wraps and you can buy them on Amazon. Everlast 4455-3 3-Pk. Hand Wraps
I just wanted to give this a good review to counter the bad reviews by people that can't read. The product description says 108". If you are looking for something different than 108" wraps then keep searching. But if you can read and are looking for good wraps for smaller hands it seems to me that others that can read would recommend these.
Please remember that giving a product a bad rating does effect their sales.
I wish I had read the reviews before purchasing these. If you are going to do contact striking work (heavy bag, mitt work, etc.) then you need to protect your hands, and these wraps are too short for adults.
I have replaced them with longer "professional" wraps from Everlast, which are the proper length for adult hands.
Don't listen to the uneducated reviews here. These are great for hitting the heavy bag, speed bags, focus mitts, etc. The length of these, 108", makes them easier and less bulky when using bag gloves. The 170-180" are for sparring and competitive bouts. That is why Ringside makes different lengths. There is also a 120" length, which gives me that little extra coverage but these are excellent wraps!
At one time, you just needed to see the Everlast brand name to be assured that you were getting a top-quality product: one that would withstand anything you could throw at it.
Now that they've outsourced their manufacturing to China, Everlast quality is not the virtual guarantee that it once was.
I purchased (and use) these wraps. However, one of them was manufactured improperly. The velcro closure is sewn to a different side of the wrap than it is on all the others. Because of this, I always ended up putting it on backwards. I finally marked it so I would know to put it on differently than the others.
For around $10, you should expect to get something that has passed a quality-control check. After all, wraps are just some strips of cloth and velcro; they probably cost about $0.25 to manufacture.
These wraps are short, just over 100 inches, but fine for hitting the bag. They are not elasticized, but that is fine for my purposes, as it's what I prefer. If you want to do serious sparring or fighting, or if you want to put some padding on your knuckles (under the wraps), you'll need longer wraps than these. In short: you can wrap your wrist, knuckles, and thumb with these, but you won't have enough material to wrap between your fingers. They come packed in a plastic mesh bag, but it can't easily be reused. A cloth mesh bag with a drawstring would have been better.
Summary: overpriced and shoddily-made.
These are shorter than normal so you can't wrap your hand quite as well. They also are becoming frayed and the velcro bit that is sewed on is starting to come off. I can't imagine they'll be functional after a few more uses. The only pros are that they're cheap and come in a 3 pack. Next time I'm going to get a higher quality, longer wrap. Don't bother with these.
The length of the product was not an issue, they are short - but if you are female with small hands it is not a problem. The problem is the poor quality of the hand wraps and how uncomfortable they are. Handwraps should have some elasticity to it, so that you can get a tight protect wrap around your hand. These are stiff, so when you close your fist the wrap doesn't conform comfortably to your hand. I was so uncomfortable that I took them off halfway through class. Please do not waste your money on this product.
I dont know what the deal is with these wraps. I have been using everlast products for 20 years and have never had a set of wraps just fall apart on me in a matter of days like these ones have. Its possible that I might have recieved a manufacturers defect but the stitching on the thumb loop and velcro last me about 2 days with each of the 3 sets. So I could not recommend these to anyone.'
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Sport Watch - f1, watches
I have had my Formula 1 non-chrono for almost 4 years and wear it quite frequently. I like the style, comfort, and durability of the case and bracelet. It wears well and can take some abuse.
BEWARE OF THE MOVEMENT!!
I'm glad I bought mine from a brick and mortar dealer and also bought the extended warranty. I had to send it to TAG for service 4 times for problems with the movement. The last time they returned it to me they actually replaced the entire insides of the watch.
I have a friend who had similar issues with his Formula 1 chronograph as well. They just sent him a completely new watch! The last time (5th time, mind you) that I sent the watch in for servicing was because the crown got stripped. It cost me over $130 since I was out of warranty.
I love the watch and it was my first "expensive/high-end" watch. I have been really disappointed with it. I really *do* love the style, though. It's really comfortable and still looks pretty new. TAG Heuer Men's WAH1111.BA0850 Formula 1 Professional Watch
Very nice and solid watch. The brushed stainless steel bracelet feels and looks as though it should cost lots more.
The Amazon service was excellent and since this is the first time I have purchased a watch from Amazon, will definitely do so again in future (as after my price checks in various corners of the world, even in duty free shops at airports) the purchase from Amazon was definitely the least expensive.
My last watch was a wittnauer. It was very slim and I thought twice about getting a watch with a thicker face, but I am extremely pleased with the Tag Heuer that I purchased (WAH1111). I would absolutely recommend this watch for anyone. The hands light up well in the dark and overall the watch feels great on my wrist.
I purchased this TAG Heuer as an early christmas pressie for myself...first of all hats off to Amazon for a speedy and smooth delivery to Germany! I was pleasantly surpised with this watches size, not too big for a rather small men's wrist. Very well made and keeps time perfectly, so far it hasn't gained or lost a second! Craftsmanship is nothing to worry here, even the cheaper models have this "TAG touch" to them. The white dial looks sporty yet elegant enough with the black titanium coated bezel, I tried a black dial in comparison and the whole watch seems to look "bigger" whereas the white dial makes it look smaller (at least to my eyes!). Readability is excellent in almost all lighting conditions.
If you're on the fence for one of those I'd strongly advise you to go for it - you'll get great value and a really durable watch for your money!
I received my watch with a dead battery and defective movement piece. Knowing Amazon's reputation I just got a new battery and replaced the movement mechanization then advised Amazon. Within two weeks my American Express was credited for the cost. THAT'S WHY I DO BUSINESS WITH AMAZON!
Bill M. Taylor
CEO
Tandem Inc.
It is a Tag Heuer, smaller that I imagined. Good quality product.
Good: the size, the weight, the price.
Bad: white inside color (my mistake!):it is not easy to read the watch indications. The belt close is very difficult to work with and for that reason i scratch my fingers every time when I take out the watch.
All above: very nice and good watch at very good price
I have a love for high end watches, and this is no exception. The Tag Heuer line of watches are high end and great quality. I could not believe I got this watch for this price. To all of the skeptics out there this is a legit watch, not a knock off. If it is any help I also work in the jewelery industry with an expertise in watches. This watch is the real deal. - F1 - Formula 1 - Sport Watch - Watches'
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