Digital Television (DTV) is a new type of broadcasting technology that offers lots of advantages over analog television, starting with better picture and sound quality. It also allows stations to telecast more programming using less of the broadcast spectrum.
With DTV, a broadcaster can provide several program channels using the same amount of bandwidth as one traditional analog channel—a process called multicasting. Instead of just having channel 7, for example, you now have channel 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3, each offering different programming. Cool, huh? In fact, many stations have already started broadcasting this way. So with the right equipment, you can get a clearer picture and multicast channels today in areas where they're available.* To watch these additional channels, you'll just need an antenna and a TV set with a built-in DTV tuner or converter box.
On February 17, 2009, many full-power broadcasters will stop sending out conventional "analog" television signals. However, a deadline extension has been passed that extends the cutoff date for the transition to June 12, 2009. After that date, full-power broadcasters will broadcast 100% digital television (DTV) signals that can be received only by digital TVs or converters. Low power broadcasters may continue to transmit their analog signals. Check with your local broadcasters to see when they’re making the switch.
In the 1990s, Congress saw the benefit of having TV stations make the transition from analog to digital broadcasting. Why? Well, the broadcast spectrum was getting crowded. To understand what that means, picture a radio that has a hundred stations between 97.1 and 97.3. On a radio like this, it would be really hard to tune in to the station you want. And if you wanted to start a radio station at 97.2, it would be really hard to find a space to broadcast without all the other stations drowning you out. The broadcast spectrum works in a similar way, and it's getting mighty crowded.
By converting all TV to DTV, Congress will free up parts (or "bands") of the broadcast spectrum, because a digital signal takes up less "space" than an analog signal. That means more room for public safety and emergency services like police, fire and medical. And more room for new services, like wireless.
Step 1:
Make connections. If you have a record player with RCA jacks, try running the signal through your stereo before connecting to the computer-the sound quality will be much better. Or, use the stereo audio cable to connect the headphone jack on your record player to the audio-in port on your computer.
Step 2:
Set Up Your Software. Open up whatever audio program you are using and run a quick test. Start a new track and press record, then press play on your record player. Stop the track after a few seconds, and listen back.
Step 3:
Get Converting. Once your levels are set, start converting your albums, a side at a time.
Step 4:
Enjoy! Once you've converted your albums, transfer them to an iPod, dock in on a Polk Audio Design Dock, and bask in the vinyl glory.
So many of us can remember our wireless phone batteries running really low and wishing we had our chargers. Maybe you've been away for the weekend and noticed that your phone's battery is about to die. As you look through your bag, you discover that you also forgot to pack the chargers for the iPod®, iPhone™, BlackBerry®, Bluetooth®, Sony PSP™ and various other electronics. Well, now there's no need to worry.
RadioShack offers Lenmar's portable chargers to fulfill all of your power needs. The PowerPort™ 2100 is an efficient, rechargeable battery that enables you to charge up a variety of devices. The PPU2100B comes with tip adapters that can charge your iPhone, iPod, BlackBerry, Sony PSP and several other portable electronics via a USB connection.
It is a perfect companion, whether you're traveling, on the go, or just want to have backup power in case of an emergency. Now it's easy to stay powered up and connected.
