What is Playstation Move?
Overview of Sony’s Playstation Move – Wii and Xbox Kinects Challenger
The Wii set new standards for motion activated gaming using its highly technical Wii-Mote to allow players to play games physically. Shortly after Xbox 360 launched its Xbox Kinect to compete. Then Sony released its version, the Playstation Move.
The Playstation move controller uses Bluetooth 2.0 wireless communication with an internal ion battery (which you can charge on the consoles usb port) – Up to 4 controllers can be used at once to allow your friends and family to participate in the fun. Unique in looks too, the top of the motion controller features a orb head that glows a full range of colors based on what’s happening in game.
The unique technology allows your motion controller to communicate with the Playstation Eye camera, to track every move you make and replicate them in game. Hard buttons are included on the Move controller to help you navigate in-game menus. The controller also features vibration feedback to compliments the glowing orb as well. As mentioned before the orb will turn different colors based on the game. If your firing a gun, it will replicated a muzzle flash. If your painting it will replicate the color of the paint.
The Navigation controller is used supplementary with the Move motion controller to help you navigate. The navigation controller features a single analog stick, a d-pad, L1 and L2 analog triggers, and an X and O button. The Move also includes numerous add-ons such as a charging station and shooting attachment.
Play Playstation Move specific games such as Sorcery, Ninja Gaiden 3, Sports Champions, Just Dance, Eyepet, and Playstation Move Heroes. As well as the numerous games with compatibility such as Little Big Planet Karting, Dance Dance Revolution, Brunswick Pro Bowling, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2013, Killzone 3, and many more.
Priced very well at just $79.99 – you can get a bundle with everything you need to get started with the Playstation Move. 1 Playstation Move Wireless Controller, Playstation Eye Camera, and a couple games to use it with. With a big library of games that utilize the Move as its primary controller, and many other supporting games that can use the Playstation Move with it.
Best PS3 Exclusive Titles
Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!… [more]
Should I buy a Playstation 3?
Sony is noted for the long life of their consoles, squeezing out every last drop it can until it releases a new console. We saw the Playstation 2 last 6 strong years, with games STILL coming out after that. With talk about the Playstation 4 and next Xbox coming sometime soon, would it be wise to get a Playstation 3 now? Or just wait for the Playstation 4?… [more]
Should I buy a Playstation 3?
When does the PS4 come out? Is it a good time to buy the PS3 in 2012?
Sony is noted for the long life of their consoles, squeezing out every last drop it can until it releases a new console. We saw the Playstation 2 last 6 strong years, with games STILL coming out after that. With talk about the Playstation 4 and next Xbox coming sometime soon, would it be wise to get a Playstation 3 now? Or just wait for the Playstation 4?
We think there is no better time to get a Playstation 3 then now. The Playstation 4 (code named Orbis) is believed to be still a while away from release. Rumors have it for a Christmas 2013 release date. With 1.5 years and some odd months until then, you need something to hold you over. The Playstation 3 still has life in it, and games are still coming that you won’t want to miss.
The Playstation has been updated since its original release, deemed as the “fat” PS3. The Playstation 3 slim has been upgrading in size and features since launch. 120GB, 160GB, 250GB, 320GB – many different sizes at very competitive price points give you great control on how serious you want to get in purchasing a PS3. You can currently pick up a smaller 120GBPS3 for just around $200 – which makes the PS3 WELL worth it.
The PS3 exclusives alone are a great reason to get one. Killzone, Twisted Metal, Metal Gear Solid, Gran Turismo, Resistance, Little Big Planet, Demon Souls, Heavy Rain, the list goes on and on. Not to mention free online multiplayer, opposed to the Xbox 360s fee based online. Pay for the PS3, a game or two, and your good to go online. No more extra fees.
The PS3 also double as a blu-ray player – allowing you to watch blu-rays in HD on your TV’s. It’s a dual purpose machine that still has life in it. Sony has proven with it’s previous consoles that it can squeeze every last bit of life out of their products.
It has never been a better time to purchase a Playstation 3 then right now. With many different models available at very competitive price points, a huge catalogue of exclusive games, and other great features make this console a must have.
Best PS3 Exclusive Titles
Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!… [more]
What is Playstation Move?
The Wii set new standards for motion activated gaming using its highly technical Wii-Mote to allow players to play games physically. Shortly after Xbox 360 launched its Xbox Kinect to compete. Then Sony released its version, the Playstation Move. … [more]
Best PS3 Exclusive Games
Top 10 Rated PS3 Exclusive Games 2025
The Playstation 3 is old, real old. Released on November 17th in 2006, it is 6 years old and has seen a lot in its long run. Exclusive titles that define the system as well as the Sony Brand. It’s no doubt titles such as Call of Duty have been the most popular across all consoles, but gamers neglect to realize the real gems of the Playstation 3. The exclusive titles available only to loyal Sony Customers. We decided to bring you that list.
Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!
Single Player, Multi-Player |
Directed by the genius Hideo Kojima Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is another episode in the tactical espionage action game series. Pitting you as a much older Solid Snake you embark on what could be your final…
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Single-Player |
Heavy Rain is a different kind of video game and exclusive to the PS3 – which makes us happy to have rights to such an exhilarating game play experience. An interactive psychological thriller, full of drama…
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Single-Player |
JRPG fans rejoiced when news of a Studio Ghibli title was on the way. Now that it has arrived, all the excitement has been fully justified. The first thing everyone notices…Read More
1 Player, +Multiplayer |
An extremely challenging yet rewarding action RPG developed just for us PS3 gamers. Set in a dark fantasy world, you venture through the world of Boletaria, where you will be fighting against the demons …
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1 Player, +Online Multiplayer, Co-Op, Split-Screen |
Of course this wouldn’t be a complete list without any of the Uncharted games on it. Hounded as one of the best Playstation exclusive series ever, and even in the game industry…
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1 Player, Multiplayer |
Twisted Metal is known as a classic, a grandfather of games. If you ever had the original Playstation in the 90s, you know about Twisted Metal. It’s returned…
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Greatest Hits PS3 Game |
God of War 3 is a sequel in the award winning God of War series, started on the Playstation 2. You play again as the character Kratos in a mix of 3rd Person and 1st person…
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Single-Player |
inFAMOUS (or inFamous) is an action adventure game set in an open sandbox type world. You play as a bike messenger caught in the middle of…
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Single-Player, Multiplayer (16 person online) |
No PS3 exclusive list would be complete without hands down one of the best racing games in video game HISTORY! The first game in the epic racing series to feature online races…
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FPS |
Killzone is a long running PS3 exclusive that has its place in fans hearts. In the over saturated market of FPS shooters it’s hard to stand out, especially when just on one console. But PS3 owners KNOW…
Read More
Single-player, Co-op online, multiplayer |
The original Resistance launch title on PS3 was a huge hit. Though the 3rd version doesn’t have the insanely huge 40 player online…
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PS3 Buying Guide / Articles
Buying a Playstation 3
Quick Overview of PS3 Models and Prices – Which is best for you?
Different Models
The Playstation 3 comes in a variety of models ranging from 20GB to 320GB – The most prominent ones being the new Slim models available in 120GB, 160GB, 250GB, and 320GB. The only real differences in models is the “Fat” version of the PS3 and “Slim” – The Slim is more prominent. The biggest difference between slim models is simply the hard drive size.
120GB, 160GB, 250GB, 320GB?
This decision is based mostly on what you are planning on doing. If you are going to be copying music/videos/pictures to your PS3, you will want the larger 250GB or 320GB hard-drive. If your just a semi-hardcore casual gamer who only needs to save games, the 160GB is a great size that offers wiggle room. If your just a casual player the 120GB is fine and will hold tons of game saves.
Can I use HDMI with PS3?
All newer Slim models of the PS3 have HDMI outputs, so you can connect them to a TV with HDMI support. If you don’t have an HDMI ready TV, your PS3 can use the standard RCA hookups.
Used or new?
Though you can find abundant used PS3’s on Ebay or Craigslist, you run the risk of getting a broken system or being scammed. With the prices of the 120 and 160GB models so low, your better of investing in a new one. More often then not you will only save $20 – $40 buying used. We think it’s a wise choice to go new and pay the extra $20 and have a warranty + reliability.
Where can I buy a PS3?
You can buy a Playstation 3 from any online retailer such as Amazon – or in most electronics stores across the world.
Do I need any extra cables, plugs, hook ups? Or is buying the console come with everything I need?
Buying a PS3 console bundle should come with everything you need to hook up the PS3 and start playing – Power cord, Dual Shock Wireless controller, usb cable, and AV video cables (HDMI chord you will need to buy separate unless included in a special limited bundle)
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Jon Bannister has always had an interest in the latest technology and gadgetry. A graduate of the Georgia Tech computer science program, Jon has a very technical and working knowledge on how computers interact with and improve… See more about Jon |
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Should I buy a PS3?
Sony is noted for the long life of their consoles, squeezing out every last drop it can until it releases a new console. We saw the Playstation 2 last 6 strong years, with games STILL coming out after that. With talk about the Playstation 4 and next Xbox coming sometime soon, would it be wise to get a Playstation 3 now? Or just wait for the Playstation 4?… [more]
What is Playstation Move?
The Wii set new standards for motion activated gaming using its highly technical Wii-Mote to allow players to play games physically. Shortly after Xbox 360 launched its Xbox Kinect to compete. Then Sony released its version, the Playstation Move. … [more]
Best Gaming Headsets
Gaming headsets are not solely for gaming; you can use them for listening to music, Skype, or chatting with friends. We selected our 10 favorite gaming headsets based on the following qualities… [more]
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Top 10 Gaming Headsets
Gaming headsets are not solely for gaming; you can use them for listening to music, Skype, or chatting with friends. We selected our 10 favorite gaming headsets based on the following qualities: Sharp, realistic audio… [more]
Stainless Steel Dishwashers: Stylish and Sanitary
More families today are choosing stainless steel dishwashers because they lend a professional, sophisticated look and imitate the kind that real chefs use. To accommodate this demand, several top dishwasher manufacturers proudly advertise their models’ stainless steel interiors. Not only do they look sleek and stylish, but stainless steel offers several benefits to the dishwashers’ cleaning performance.
The dishwasher’s tub material has a great impact on the machine’s durability. Old-fashioned dishwashers used to have enamel-coated metal tubs. Unfortunately, the enamel would wear down and crack over time, exposing the metal to rust. Manufacturers took note of this problem and developed durable plastic tubs that withstood wear and aging problems. Now they have taken it a step forward with stainless steel tubs that offer a host of benefits.
Consider the following:
- They’re resistant to cracking and rusting.
- Heavier than plastic tubs, they vibrate less during wash cycles, making the dishwasher quieter.
- Stainless steel withstands higher temperatures. The hotter the water, the more effective the detergent’s power and the overall cleaning performance.
- Able to handle temperatures up to 165°F, they also let dishwashers feature sanitizing cycles that kill bacteria.
Of course, there are always a couple disadvantages to any dishwasher feature. The most noticeable one here is cost: Stainless steel will always raise the price. You may get more use and better performance over the long term, though, so consider the long-term benefits as well as the initial ticket price.
Another possible downside affects people whose houses receive hard water. Both plastic and stainless steel tubs tend to develop calcium deposits, but it’s more noticeable on the stainless steel ones. This means extra cleaning and maintenance, something that might turn off certain buyers.
Professional chefs like stainless steel not only because they’re durable and resistant to corrosion and rust, but also because they’re gleaming and spotless when kept clean and sanitary. If you have a stainless steel dishwasher in your home, you’ll quickly learn how to keep the exterior clean and fingerprint free, and you’ll be happy with a shiny, attractive appliance.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Top 10 Dishwashers
To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of … [more]
Tips for Baking and Serving Casseroles
The casserole has long been a favorite American dish, even though the word is French in origin. Casseroles are easy to bake because you simply add all the ingredients to a casserole pan and bake it in the oven. They come out hot and ready to serve. You know that friends and relatives bring casseroles for all types of events—potlucks, picnics, holidays, and even in times of mourning—because they can be frozen and reheated at a later date.
You can find literally hundreds of casserole recipes in cookbooks and online because there are so many varied ingredients you can use, be they meat, fish, cheese, vegetables, pasta, or eggs. What keeps casseroles from being a conglomerated mess of ingredients is the sauce, soup, or starchy potato that holds it all together. Melt cheese on top, and you have a mouth-watering, hearty dish perfect for chilly winter days.
While baking a casserole is fairly easy, there are some tips you can remember to improve the taste and ensure that it stays fresh for a long time should you choose to freeze it.
Baking and Serving Tips
- You can top a casserole with more than just cheese. Try bacon bits, French-fried onions, bread crumbs, cracker crumbs, crumbled potato chips, and chopped nuts.
- Garnish a casserole for extra flavor and visual appeal. Use tomato wedges, olives, shredded cheese or lettuce, fresh herbs, or green onions. Hard boil an egg in advance and add the slices.
- If you’re looking for healthy alternatives, try low-fat soups or sauces and go easy on the cheese.
Freezing and Reheating Tips
- Don’t leave casseroles uneaten in the freezer for more than 2 months.
- You can freeze a casserole uncooked or cooked. If you cook it first, let the casserole cool to room temperature before sealing it in an air-tight bag it and putting it in the freezer.
- Label frozen casseroles with a description and the freezing date.
- When you decide to reheat it, let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Or, cook it extra long in the oven and stick a knife in the center to see if it’s thawed all the way.
Many people have learned how to maximize their grocery purchases by preparing large meals and freezing portions for later. With some thoughtful planning and preparation, you can cut down your cooking time and grocery bills and still avoid eating out too often.
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What to Look For in Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel provides the most versatile functions in a cookware set. However, you need to know what to look for when you buy a stainless steel set, which is typically more expensive than other materials. Even Heating: While stainless steel has a gleaming, mirror-like appearance, it’s by itself not the most conductive material. Unless stainless steel pots and pans have aluminum … [more]
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Top 10 Casserole Containers
Nothing says comfort food like a rich, hot casserole. We looked at a number of casserole containers, both glass and stoneware, and found 10 that we believe do a superior job of baking casseroles, lasagna, bread, and other meals. We looked for the following qualities: 1. Safe to go in the oven, microwave, freezer, and … [more]
Baby Monitor Apps for iPad and iPhone
Parents no longer have to be confined to the house to monitor their young children. The BabyPing kit, due February 2012, includes a digital camera with 640X840 resolution and Wi-Fi connectivity. Parents can pull up video of their babies on their iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch. Alerts let parents know if their Wi-Fi connection is dropped or if they move out of range of the signal. Video monitoring is possible even in the dark, thanks to BabyPing’s infrared night vision.
The NextStepIP System is another baby monitor system that allows parents to pull up live video on their smartphones and computers. The monitor system includes pan and tilt controls, so parents can survey the entire nursery and catch all the action. Its night vision illuminates the sleeping child for the camera without disturbing the baby’s sleep. With a one-time purchase of an app on an Apple or Android phone, parents have two-way audio communication with the monitor transmitter.
As baby monitoring technology advances in the twenty-first century, parents will be happy to be able to keep a watchful eye over their babies even in today’s busy world.
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5 Educational Apps for Children
Kids naturally clamor for your smart phone or tablet because they like the fun games. You yourself probably enjoy a few mindless, addicting apps when you have time to kill. Fortunately, there are also several apps that serve an educational purpose, and kids will still find them entertaining. 1. Word Book and Puzzle Box HD: For preschoolers to first-graders, Aids with … [more]
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Top 10 Baby Monitors
As we surveyed the wide selection of baby monitors available on the market, we kept the following important qualities in mind: 1. Wide range, 2. Secure, interference-free channels, 3. Clear reception, 4. Low battery/out of range indicators, 5. Ample … [more]
Top 10 Baby Car Seats
Parents looking for a safe infant car seat have the daunting task of wading through dozens of brands and models to find the one seat right for their child. We compared the seats on the market and chose which ones are the best ones based on safety and … [more]
What to Look For in Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel provides the most versatile functions in a cookware set. However, you need to know what to look for when you buy a stainless steel set, which is typically more expensive than other materials.
Even Heating
While stainless steel has a gleaming, mirror-like appearance, it’s by itself not the most conductive material. Unless stainless steel pots and pans have aluminum cores, they won’t retain and distribute heat evenly. You’ll get hot spots in some places and cold spots in others. Some cookware have layers of steel, aluminum, and copper in the base to maximize the heat distribution.
Quality
The quality of the stainless steel has a great impact on the durability—resistance to corroding, warping, staining, and denting. You’ll see some stainless steel labeled 18/10, which means it’s 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel. Chromium keeps stainless steel from rusting, and nickel keeps the pots and pans brilliant and shiny.
Cleaning
Stainless steel is pretty tough. It’s generally okay to run your cookware through the dishwasher as long as you remove it right after to dry it thoroughly with a towel. Water left on the cookware can cause spots.
Burnt-on food is a pain to scrub off, but it’s not the end of the world. Try soaking the pot or pan in hot, soapy water before brushing it with a nylon brush or pad. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive metal scouring pads. which can scratch and damage the stainless steel surface.
If your stainless steel has lost some of its luster, sprinkle some baking soda over the wet surface, rub it in with a synthetic pad, and then rinse and dry.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Should I Get a Hanging, Wall-Mounted, or Freestanding Pot Rack?
Depending on your kitchen design and personal preferences, you may decide to buy a either a hanging, wall-mounted, or freestanding pot rack. Each variety has its special qualities and attractions, although they all serve basically the same purpose: organizing and … [more]
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Top 10 Pot Racks
When it comes to pot racks, be they ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, you want sturdiness, durability, and enough space to hold lots of pots, pans, and kitchen utensils. Some of the main factors we considered while compiling our top 10 list included: 1. Ease of assembly and … [more]
Getting the Most Out of Your Blender: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After buying a quality blender, you want to make sure you get the most out of it. Don’t just let it collect dust on the countertop or, worse, lie forgotten in a cabinet. You don’t have to be a master chef to make amazing mixtures with this appliance, and there are several simple and quick ways to incorporate the blender into your daily kitchen routine.
Breakfast
- Grind your own coffee beans for the freshest taste. It’s cheaper than buying them pre-ground at the store, too.
- Start off the day with a burst of energy by mixing a fruit smoothie for breakfast. Fresh bananas and strawberries blended with yogurt and orange juice make a delicious and healthy treat.
Lunch
- There are a variety of soups you can whip up easily, including soups that can be served cold, like Gazpacho. Whether you like creamy or thick soup, a blender makes mixing the ingredients together simple and keeps all the juices and flavors intact.
- Dress up salads and sandwiches with homemade mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, vegetable spreads, and salad dressings.
Dinner
- Blenders are also good at grinding spices and maintaining their full flavor. Try processing whole garlic, peppercorn, and mustard seeds for an extra kick in your sauces or dressings.
- There are numerous online recipes for simple pies and mousses that can be quickly pureed in the blender and then chilled for dessert.
- Of course, everyone enjoys a mixed drink or a milkshake as an after-dinner treat. Whether it’s a fruit juice mix for the kids or margaritas for the grown-ups, the blender makes short work of ice.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Top 10 Food Processors
We found that the best food processors possess some important factors and convenient features, including: 1. Durable stainless steel blades that won’t wear down or become dull, 2. Easy to disassemble parts that are safe for the dishwasher, 3. A sturdy base that … [more]
Top 10 Juicers
There are several different types of juicers that handle different functions. Centrifugal juicers are the most common and range from $50 to $200. Masticating juicers are quieter, heavier, and more expensive, typically running up to $350. Some of the most expensive juice … [more]
Best Compact Cameras
Top 10 Rated Compact Digital Cameras 2025
By Brian Jones
As we chose the top 10 compact digital cameras, we considered a number of factors that set the winners apart from the rest. These qualities include:
1. Number of megapixels to produce sharp, detailed images
2. Optical zoom that doesn’t degrade the picture quality
3. Lightweight, slim, portable design
4. Large and bright LCD preview screen
5. Easy-to-operate buttons and menu controls
6. Little to no lag between shots
7. Battery life and ease of recharging
8. Minimal noise or graininess in low-lighting shots
9. Various preset modes including an easy auto mode
10. Face recognition feature that optimizes focus and exposure for portrait shots
11. Value for the price
You’ll find a selection of digital cameras here, from basic point and shoots for beginners to more advanced bridge cameras for the serious photographers.
Colors: Black, Blue, Red, Silver, Violet |
With 10.1 MP, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX7K compact digital camera produces superbly sharp photos. You are going to see minimal noise and/or blurriness all sorts of photographs…read more
Available in 3 colors |
An easy-to-use digital camera from Canon with excellent HD video recording capabilities and wifi built in, this model is amazingly priced at $199.99. 1080p HD video recording…read more
Colors: Black, White |
This relatively low-priced ultra zoom camera acts as a bridge between point and shoots and an DSLRs. It has a powerful zoom for a compact camera at 15x. The 16 MP sensor…read more
Colors: Black and Red |
Canon has a great reputation for beginner digital cameras. This is a perfect example. You get a sturdy, durable, and compact digital camera that features a 3-inch LCD screen…read more
Colors: Black, Red |
The Olympus SZ-15 compact digital camera has an impressive optical zooming spec of 24x. This means you can get super clear shots from very far away…read more
16 Megapixel CMOS sensor |
The one feature on this camera that makes it stand out is the powerful zoom. No other camera in this class boasts a 15x optical zoom digital zoom…
read more
Colors: Black Red |
Nikon’s Coolpix L series is aimed at beginners and those familiar with cameras alike. The L820 digital camera produces sharp pictures at 16 MP, even from far away with the amazing 30x optical zoom…read more
Color: Black |
This is one feature rich camera. And a big improvement over previous models. It is a slim, lightweight digital camera with a 16 MP sensor. The twist on this Samsung digital camera is the additional LCD screen…read more
3 Colors Available |
This Sony digital camera is a great little point and shoot model that takes sharp, bright photos. The body is nice and compact as well. We were amazed by the sweep panorama mode…read more
Compact Cameras Buying Guide
Understanding Pixel Count in Your Digital Camera
When you look at a photograph taken with a digital camera, you see a clear, crisp image. What you don’t see are the millions of pixels that make up the image. Pixels are the miniscule blocks of color that put together make up a picture. Each pixel has a numeric value from 0 to 255 and comprises three colors: red, green, and blue. Those three colors, each assigned a number from 0 to 255, blend together in unique combinations to make up any color you can imagine. Think of it like mixing paints.
Digital cameras are distinguished by their pixel count. The greater the pixel count, the sharper the image and the more you can blow up the picture without losing its clarity. Pixel counts in cameras range from 1 million, or 1 megapixel (MP), to 14 million. If you have ever tried to print or develop a low-resolution image, say from the Internet, then you know it turns out pixelated with the blocky pixels visible.
How many megapixels do you need in your digital camera? If you like developing a lot of your prints, decide what size photos you prefer:
- If you’re a casual photographer or you like making prints of family photos, you’ll be happy with a 3MP camera, which makes sharp 4”x6” and 5”x7” prints.
- If you prefer large 8”x10” photographs, then a 4MP or 5MP camera will yield a clearer image at that size.
Some cameras give two pixel counts. There’s the total pixel count, which includes all the pixels on the sensor surface. The pixels on the edges are typically dropped in the final image. The effective pixel count measures all the pixels in the image after the edge pixels are taken away.
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Brian Jones has had a passion for photography and anything related for the majority of his life. One photography class in high school was all it took to get hooked on everything to do with the subject. He became more focused on learning about camera equipment as he experiemented with everything available… See more about Brian |
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Samsung Galaxy Camera on AT&T Network
Android based cameras are a very new thing to the digital photography world. You might ask: What about the camera on my Android phone? Well, that’s not exactly what is going on here. An Android based camera has all the features of a dedicated camera, with the ability to connect to the internet, share on social networks… [more]
Digital Zoom vs. Optical Zoom: What’s the Difference?
Many digital cameras include both digital zoom and optical zoom. It’s helpful to understand the difference between these two zooming features when you’re trying to get a close-up view of something far away. Optical zoom maintains a high clarity as … [more]
A Guide to ISO Settings on Your Digital Camera
If you have ever visited an aquarium, then you know it’s difficult to get a good shot of the fish in the tanks awash with light and color because the room is otherwise really dark. A shot taken in auto mode might turn out dark and underexposed, and using a flash could … [more]
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Digital point and shoot cameras have come a long way since their beginnings. These cameras combine extreme portability with the newest technologies, like image stabilization, to capture the best looking image easily. We selected the 10 best point and shoot cameras based on the … [more]
Top 10 Digital SLR Cameras
The most important factors that we looked for in selecting our top 10 digital SLR cameras included: 1. Megapixels, 2. Video and audio quality, 3. Button and menu interface, 4. Battery life, 5. Anti-shake technology, 6. ISO level and minimal noise, 7. LCD screen size and … [more]
Top 10 Nikon Lenses
Digital SLR cameras are becoming much more of a consumer camera than they use to be. People are getting in touch with the photographer inside and want to step up their game. Cell phone cameras and smaller point and shoot cameras just aren’t going to do it anymore. A DSLR comes with… [more]
Top 10 Canon Lenses
Canon has a vast array of lenses that will complement any situation perfectly. The trouble comes with choosing which one is right for you. We looked at 10 of the best Canon lenses and rated them with the following criteria: General-purpose vs. specialized use, Low light performance… [more]
Top 10 Camera Bags
Now that you have your camera in hand, it’s time to take it every where with you. You don’t want to be without your camera when that picture perfect moment occurs right before your eyes. The right camera bag will make all the difference in the world when it comes to lugging your camera gear around. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right one for your style of shooting… [more]
Top 10 Tripods
Tripods are an essential piece of photography equipment. They allow photographers to achieve a stability in their pictures that could not be had in hand holding the camera. Sometimes a shot required much slower shutter speeds or the photographer is trying to catch movement with out shaking the whole camera… [more]
Top 10 Photo Printers
In today’s world we all have a camera within reach almost at all times. Our camera phones are capable of taking wonderful pictures and our dedicated digital cameras are small enough to fit in our pockets. So what are we going to do with all of these photographs? That’s easy. Make prints! With a photo printer you will be able to have hard copies of your favorite memories in literally less than a minute…. [more]
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5 Educational Apps for Children
Kids naturally clamor for your smart phone or tablet because they like the fun games. You yourself probably enjoy a few mindless, addicting apps when you have time to kill. Fortunately, there are also several apps that serve an educational purpose, and kids will still find them entertaining.
1. Word Book and Puzzle Box HD
- For preschoolers to first-graders
- Aids with spelling and sounding out words with phonics
- Designed for the iPad
- Kids can drag letters to the correct places to form words and simultaneously hear the letters sounded out
- Reward system encourages kids to keep playing so they earn more items for their special room
2. Math Evolve
- For kids in early school grades
- Kids use addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication to operate a spaceship to save the world
- Includes multiple levels and bosses to defeat, testing kids’ learned math skills
- For solo play or multiple players
- On the iPad’s touchscreen, players have greater control and maneuverability
3. Phonic Fun & Games
- For preschoolers and kindergarteners learning the ABCs
- Includes alphabet cards, guessing games, letter tracing practice, and memory games
- Enhances fine motor skills
- Creative designs teach lower- and upper-case letters in a memorable manner
4. Foodie the Bug
- Well-rounded app for kids learning about different cultures and ethnic foods
- Designed for iOS devices
- A cute bug flies over various landscapes collecting food ingredients for various ethnic dishes
- Intuitive gameplay involves tilting the iPad or iPhone to move the character
5. The Nutcracker Musical Storybook
- App combines the music of Tchaikovsky with beautiful hand-painted illustrations by Yoko Tanaka
- For the iPad or iPhone
- As much about the classical ballet music as the reading experience
- Includes a story mode, where kids read at their own pace, and movie mode, where they enjoy the music and visuals seamlessly
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Toys for tots ages 2 to 4 are not only entertaining but educational, helping them develop fine motor skills, concentration, dexterity, problem solving, creative play, and imagination. As we looked at a number of toys for children in this age range, we looked for a number of important factors, including: 1. Educational value, 2. Durability, 3. Easy storage and … [more]
Gas vs. Electric vs. Cordless Lawn Mowers
While gas mowers have been around the longest and are praised for their power, you’ll find that electric and cordless mowers are gaining popularity for being better for the environment. Of course, you never want to sacrifice cutting performance. There are advantages and disadvantages for each type of lawn mower. Which kind you choose is a matter of preference and what your property most needs.
Gas Mowers
A gas lawn mower with a high-horsepower motor is ideal for large, hilly properties. That extra power come in handy when you have to push it up an incline or run it over roots.
- Pros:
- Full freedom of mobility.
- Extra power.
- Well suited to long, dense grass.
- Cons:
- Gas and noise pollution.
- Require regular maintenance.
- Buying gas and oil gets expensive.
Electric Mowers
Lauded for being better for the environment, electric mowers operate through a power cord. They are useful tools for small, flat yards.
- Pros:
- No smelly gas fumes released into the air.
- Low maintenance.
- Quieter.
- Cheaper to operate with electricity than gas.
- Cons:
- Mobility is limited by the power cord, which may be too short, and the location of your power outlets.
- Mowing a large lawn or one covered with trees would be cumbersome.
Cordless Mowers
By not releasing harmful emissions or being tethered by a power cord, cordless lawn mowers are a smart option for small, flat yards.
- Pros:
- Don’t require gas.
- Quieter.
- Rechargeable battery eliminates the need for a power cord.
- Cons:
- Mowing is limited by the strength and lifespan of the battery.
- Not as efficient at cutting thick, tall grass.
In the end, you’ll make the best choice when you consider how large your yard is. A expansive, rough terrain calls for a gas mower for the greatest power and efficiency. However, if you have a small lawn and you prefer not to use gas, then an electric or cordless mower is a viable option.
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Operating a lawn mower shouldn’t be a dangerous task if you know what you’re doing and if the mower is equipped with basic safety features. Handle Lever: Some new models are designed with safety in mind and come equipped with a lever or bar on the handle that you must hold down to keep … [more]
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Self Propelled Mower Comparison: Husqvarna HU800AWD vs Honda GCV190
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Top 10 Riding Mowers
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Lawn Mower Safety Tips
Lawn mowers of all varieties have certain inherent risks. You have to know how to operate it properly and keep it well maintained to avoid accidents. Above all, children should not operate lawn mowers and should understand that they are dangerous yard tools.
General Mower Safety
- Don’t let young teens mow the yard without supervision.
- Watch out for young children and teach them to stay away from the mower.
- Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and goggles for protection from flying debris.
- Make sure the blades have stopped completely before leaving the mower unattended.
- Turn off the blades before crossing sidewalks and driveways.
- Don’t tamper with or remove safety features like the rear flap.
- Avoid moving a mower backward, and always check behind you if you must.
- Keep hands and feet away from the blades.
- Never tilt a mower, but keep all the wheels firmly on the ground.
- Turn off the engine and let it cool before cleaning or exchanging attachments.
Gasoline Safety
- Gas-powered lawn mowers require handling gasoline, which is highly flammable. Avoid fires and combustions by exercising caution and common sense.
- Never smoke around a gas canister or gas mower.
- Don’t store gas canisters indoors or near appliances with sparks or pilot lights.
- Always fill a tank on the ground, to the correct level, and when the engine is turned off and cool.
- Clean up gas spills quickly and don’t turn on the engine around spilled gas.
Riding Mower Safety
The greatest risk that riding mowers pose is that unsuspecting people, particularly children, can get in the way of the mower’s path. Always keep an eye out for people and look behind you before going in reverse.
- Don’t give rides to kids. They could easily fall off or interfere with the controls.
- Never attempt to ride along steep slopes because the mower could slip or roll over.
- Go in an up and down pattern on gentle inclines.
Electric Mower Safety
- Never use an electric mower on wet grass or while it’s raining.
- Don’t use a power cord that’s become frayed. Make sure it’s grounded.
- Avoid mowing over the power cord.
- Don’t yank the cord, but rather pull it out directly from the outlet.
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5 Tips for Better Lawn Mower and Lawn Care
Mowing the yard can be hot, grueling work, but a well-maintained machine can make the job a bit easier. Keeping the lawn mown and tended also gives you healthier, thicker, prettier grass.
1. Blades
Mowers with sharp blades perform better all around. The average mower needs to have its blades sharpened at least once a year. Of course, if the grass in your yard is extra thick or you have to mow more frequently than 30 times a year, it may be better to sharpen the blades more often.
Can you tell a difference with your lawn when the blades aren’t sharp enough? Most certainly. The grass ends will look torn, rough, and brown. Sharp blades also make the mowing and mulching task faster and easier for you, so it’s really to your advantage to stay on top of this task.
2. Mower deck height
Lawn mowers typically offer adjustable mowing heights. How high to set the mower depends on the type of grass you have in your yard, the season, and the climate. A general rule of thumb: Mow lower in the spring and fall and higher in the summer.
In the hot, dry summer months, you want your grass to retain as much moisture as possible without having to water it frequently. By setting a high mower height, the grass should stay lush and green. In the cooler months, you want a shorter cut on the grass because too much moisture could cause fungus to grow.
If you’re still unsure how much to trim off your specific grass type, you can’t go wrong with the 1/3 rule—that is, cut only 1/3 of the total grass height, and never more than one inch at a time. Cutting it too short can make the grass turn brown, weak, and weedy, and denies it adequate protection from the sun’s heat.
3. Changing it up: alternating patterns
Alternate mowing patterns each time you mow to avoid forming ruts or stripe marks in the grass. Not only will your lawn look prettier, the change in routine will keep a monotonous task from becoming too tedious.
4. Grass wetness
While it’s advantageous to mow when the ground is slightly damp, the mower will clog if the grass is wet. In fact, the whole mowing process will take a lot longer if the grass is wet.
5. Mulching benefits
Whenever possible, mulch. There’s no sense in letting the valuable nutrients in mulch go to waste; it’s an effective method to keeping your lawn fertile, fresh, and moist. You’ll save money on fertilizer, too.
Bagging is necessary at the beginning of the mowing season to clear the yard of debris and weeds. Bagging also works better when the grass is very tall. Attempting to mulch when the grass is high can produce clumps.
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Front vs Rear Wheel Drive Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Self-propelled lawnmowers have two types of drive: front wheel and rear wheel. But what does that mean, and which one is better? Essentially, when a gearbox propels the rear wheels, it’s a rear wheel drive mower. When the gearbox propels the front wheels, it’s a front wheel drive mower…[more]
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If you are in the market for a new high-powered self-propelled lawnmower, it may help to compare the features of two popular models, the Honda GCV190 and the Husqvarna HU800AWD. The two lawnmowers are in the same price range—the Honda GCV190 is $699, whereas the Husqvarna HU800AWD is $509.99…. [more]
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Top 10 Riding Mowers
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Safety Features on a Lawn Mower
Operating a lawn mower shouldn’t be a dangerous task if you know what you’re doing and if the mower is equipped with basic safety features.
Handle Lever
Some new models are designed with safety in mind and come equipped with a lever or bar on the handle that you must hold down to keep the engine running. Some people appreciate this feature; others find it tiresome to grip the lever the whole time. However, this feature does make it easier to pause the mower as you cross over a driveway or sidewalk.
Blade-Brake Clutch System
Sometimes you need to turn off the blades briefly but you don’t want to kill the motor. The blade-brake saves you the trouble of restarting the engine.
Back Flap
For additional safety, a mower should possess a rubber flap at the back that protects you from objects sent flying by the blades. Just to be cautious, it’s advised to wear goggles to protect your eyes.
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Mowing the yard can be hot, grueling work, but a well-maintained machine can make the job a bit easier. Keeping the lawn mown and tended also gives you healthier, thicker, prettier grass. 1. Blades: Mowers with sharp blades perform better all around. The average mower needs to have its … [more]
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Lawn mowers of all varieties have certain inherent risks. You have to know how to operate it properly and keep it well maintained to avoid accidents. Above all, children should not operate lawn mowers and should understand that they are dangerous yard tools. General Mower Safety: Don’t let … [more]
Gas vs. Electric vs. Cordless Lawn Mowers
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Front vs Rear Wheel Drive Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Self-propelled lawnmowers have two types of drive: front wheel and rear wheel. But what does that mean, and which one is better? Essentially, when a gearbox propels the rear wheels, it’s a rear wheel drive mower. When the gearbox propels the front wheels, it’s a front wheel drive mower…[more]
Self Propelled Mower Comparison: Husqvarna HU800AWD vs Honda GCV190
If you are in the market for a new high-powered self-propelled lawnmower, it may help to compare the features of two popular models, the Honda GCV190 and the Husqvarna HU800AWD. The two lawnmowers are in the same price range—the Honda GCV190 is $699, whereas the Husqvarna HU800AWD is $509.99…. [more]
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A Guide to ISO Settings on Your Digital Camera
By Brian Jones
If you have ever visited an aquarium, then you know it’s difficult to get a good shot of the fish in the tanks awash with light and color because the room is otherwise really dark. A shot taken in auto mode might turn out dark and underexposed, and using a flash could cast an annoying glare on the glass of the tank. There is a way, however, to get a bright, clear shot of the fish with just a little graininess: by increasing the ISO on your camera to 800 or higher.
In terms of cameras and photography, ISO stands for International Standards Organization and relates to the film speed. The ISO level determines the amount of sensitivity the camera’s lens has to light when the shutter opens. Most basic digital cameras have ISO settings of 100, 200, 400, and 800, but more advanced cameras and SLR models can have an ISO range up to 1600.
It can be tricky taking photographs in low light settings. In the regular auto mode, if you don’t use a flash, the image can turn out blurry. A faster shutter speed would decrease the blurriness, but it would also let in less light, producing a dark, underexposed picture. The solution to this problem lies with the ISO level. By increasing the ISO, the lens becomes more sensitive to light even in a short shutter time, giving you a brighter, sharper shot.
While you might think it would be best to use the highest ISO setting possible to get the brightest shot, that isn’t the case. In daylight, a high ISO would give you a washed-out, overexposed picture. A high ISO also increases the noise, or graininess, in the picture. Instead, you should go with the lowest ISO setting that still gives you a clear picture with proper exposure. But how do you know which ISO level to use? It depends on the lighting.
ISO | Lighting |
---|---|
100 or lower | Use this setting for brightly-lit areas and sunny outdoor shots. |
200 | On overcast days or in dim lighting, this setting will give you a clearer shot with minimal noise. |
400 | Ideal for indoor shots or outside in the evening, whether or not you’re using a flash. You’ll see some noise in the images. |
800 and higher | Use this setting at night or in low lighting. Generally best used only with an SLR camera. Basic cameras won’t be able to avoid grain with such a high ISO. |
Most SLR and some basic digital cameras have an adjustable ISO button in plain sight. If not, you can refer to the model’s user manual or search for it in the menu options. A higher ISO gives you more noise, but that’s the trade-off for having a sharp shot at the proper exposure.
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Brian Jones has had a passion for photography and anything related for the majority of his life. One photography class in high school was all it took to get hooked on everything to do with the subject. He became more focused on learning about camera… See more about Brian |
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The most important factors that we looked for in selecting our top 10 digital SLR cameras included: 1. Megapixels, 2. Video and audio quality, 3. Button and menu interface, 4. Battery life, 5. Anti-shake technology, 6. ISO level and minimal noise, 7. LCD screen size and articulation … [more]
Top 10 Compact Cameras
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Understanding Range Hood Ventilation: Ducted vs. Non-Ducted
By Brittany Rowland
Proper ventilation is of great importance in the kitchen. Your range naturally lets off smoke, vapors, odors, and cooking particles that will linger in the air unless a range hood draws them in. You can find ducted or non-ducted range hoods in a variety of styles for a wide range of prices.
Ducted range hoods
While ducted range hoods are generally more expensive, they effectively remove airborne cooking particles to the outdoors. If you have a high-BTU gas range, then it’s imperative that the impurities are released outside through a duct.
Non-ducted range hoods
Non-ducted range hoods trap most of the smoke and steam that comes from the range, purifies the air, and recirculates it. However, you have to regularly clean or replace the charcoal filter to keep it working effectively. Recirculation filters trap the airborne particles, but they don’t remove them from the kitchen entirely, but rather recirculate them through the house.
How often do charcoal filters need to be replaced in a non-ducted range hood? Generally, you should check the filters every 3 to 6 months, or more often if you cook a great deal. Some models include an indication light that reminds you when to perform the task.
More about ventilation
The location of your cooktop has an effect on the efficiency of your duct system. A range against an exterior wall will have a short, direct duct to the outside, increasing the efficiency of the ventilation process. The farther a range is from the exterior of the house, say along an interior wall or on an island, the greater the CFM must be for your range hood to vent properly.
About that noise
You’ll find many consumers take issue with the noise level of their range hood. A fan may be highly efficient and possess multiple speeds, but they typically produce at least some noise. Range hoods measure their noise levels in a unit called sones; one sone is about as loud as the average refrigerator. It’s helpful to know whether a manufacturer measures a range hood’s sones at the maximum or normal CFM level.
The type of fan also affects the sones. A traditional rotary fan is generally noisier than a centrifugal fan, which runs smoothly and quietly with its barrel-like shape.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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