Tony Shapps' AV CONCEPTS

NEW YEAR ISSUE

2008-12-31T04:52:00.000-08:00

Number
94 New
Year 2009

astronomy, 3D, virtual reality,
super-8, panoramics, antique replicas, audiovisual, flight simulation,
and

much, much, more!

Hi [Column#2],

welcome to the updated, refreshed, New Years issue 94/
2009

STOP PRESS!

See our recession-busting
EXTRA at the end of this weeks CONCEPTS!!!

NEW

CONCEPTS

for OLD!

May I take this opportunity of wishing you all a
Very Happy New Year. And with this period in mind I decided to give 'AV
CONCEPTS'' a bit of a facelift.

This is actually in response to both many readers suggestions, not
to mention criticisms, about how we were being perceived at the
receiving end. With a plethora of screens - both CRT and TFT
- and each of a different size - it seems that we were often going off your
screens.

Others experienced some very strange formatting. So I decided to spend a
little time over Christmas producing this redesign update in the hope that
it would make the publication more readable. Let me know if you have any
problems in opening it. Or any comments you would like to make. Simply press
the button below and let me have your opinions. All are welcome, Meanwhile,
on to 2009

Tony

Editor 'AV CONCEPTS'

P.S. STOP PRESS. Rufus tells me that there are big developments
afoot in the world of Virtual Reality and he has promised to give us
a full report and rundown on some great new products as soon as he has
tested a sample, and is actually confident about the outcome of using any
new equipment. So, stand by for interesting news, and remember that you will
have read it first in AV CONCEPTS (where else?).

It happened in 1880

Yes, this weeks anaglyph is quite an historical one. But I'll let reader
Brian Beatty from Melbourne, Australia, tell you all about it.

Writes Brian: "I'm forwarding a Widelux 3-D Panorama of Melbourne's
Exhibition Building built in 1880, now a World Heritage Building. You may be
able to convert this to Anaglyph for one of your newsletters (EDITORS NOTE;
yes, as you can see) . My friend Max Hem copied this onto a digital file;
Max is member of Victorian 3-D Society, as I am also".

Brian is an expert exponent of the third dimension using two of the
wonderful Widelux Panoramic camera to shoot magnificent stereoscopic images.
A camera that gives a 140-dgree image from a
revolving swing lens, resulting in a negative or
transparency of 58mm x 24mm on standard 35mm film stock. The Widelux is a
camera that I have both used, and also sold, in the years when I was with
The Widescreen Centre. Unfortunately, the company manufacturing it , Panon
Shoko, no longer exists as the owner, Mr. Akatsu, on reaching 82 years of
age decided to retire! But it is still possible to find some of the cameras
being offered on such places as eBay.

I understand that the said Widescreen Centre

still
offer the Russian version of this camera, under the name of Horizon. You can
contact Simon Bennett by ringing them on 020 7935 2580 or, of course, visit
their website at:

http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk

As always, this week's 3D image is suitable for viewing with a pair of
anaglyph red/cyan or red/green glasses. This is an anaglyph conversion from
Brian's two images using the popular '3D COMBINE'. You can obtain your trial
copy by clicking here:

NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE
KNOW THAT!

CLIMBING ON THE BANDWAGON In days gone by
it was common in the USA for a band to be paraded on a wagon through the
streets to advertise political meetings or other public gatherings. In the
case of meetings held prior to elections, local dignitaries showed their
support for candidates by climbing onto their particular wagons. Since then
climbing on a bandwagon has been taken as a display of support for a popular
movement in the hope of personal profit or advantage.

Project
the SUN

and stay safe!

......this week Matius tells you how

Writes Matius: "I've written several times about 2009 being the Year of
Astronomy, and also the Galileo 400th Anniversary of his telescope; however,
it occurs to me that one of the most interesting of heavenly bodies is here,
right on our own doorstep. What’s more it’s the only star that you can study
during daylight hours - weather permitting”.

“Yes, I’m talking about our nearest star, affectionately known by all as
THE SUN. There are those who spend their whole astronomical life studying
this heavenly body, and it is possible to spend hundreds of pounds to get
the right viewing equipment. In fact there are quite a number of different
ways to approach the subject. For example you could choose an Hydrogen-Alpha
Telescope which is an highly-specialised piece of equipment likely to set
you back around GBP 450.00 (about US $650.00). This type of ‘scope isolates
various wavelengths allowing you to view the Sun in total safety.”.

“If you already own a telescope you can purchase Solar Filters. In this
great care must be taken in making the right selection, but whichever you
select is likely to be a costly option. However, there is a cheaper - and
very safe - method of studying the sun and that is by projection”.

“To do this you simply obtain a large cardboard box and put a sheet of
white paper in the bottom. Then line your telescope up with this improvised
screen, NOT BY LOOKING THROUGH IT, I HASTEN TO ADD, but by simply pointing
it at the sun so that you get a perfect round shadow of the telescope tube
which - in turn - should give you an image on the screen. WARNING, and I
repeat NEVER LOOK THROUGH A TELESCOPE DIRECTLY AT THE SUN”.

“Now if this is too much of a fiddle for you, I can tell you that there
is a new, inexpensive, option about to hit the
market
called, appropriately, The Sun Projector and I will have more to say about
this in a future issue. But, for now, here’s an illustration to give you an
idea of what it looks like”.

Regards

Matius

"Why not get a 'Freebie' that
actually
works" says Uncle Curt...and he should know.

________________________

NEW WINGS PLATINUM-3
IS NOW AVAILABLE

___________________________

Writes Curt: "Audiovisual has come a long way ion the last 10 or 20
years. When I recall struggling with the early dissolve units - and even
single-changers which appeared to have minds of their own - it is truly
amazing just how precise and accurate things have become".

"And with the advent of video coupled digital projection things have
never been better for the man, or woman, interested in achieving great
presentation. Even better, Tony tells me that he has just received a fresh
supply of the latest Stumpfl brochures and the free CD of the new WINGS
PLATINUM-3 advanced AV software".

"Want to produce perfect panorama's? Using two three, or even four,
laptops in conjunction with a videos projectors with seamless joins and
frame accuracy between all the projectors - Stumpfl lets you do it, and do
it with ease. What's more you can warp the images to accommodate curved
screens for greater effect"

"In
fact, WINGS PLATINUM-3 is capable of producing everything from light shows
(as per the one at the Pyramids in Egypt) ;through to simple programmes and
presentations for the home. All this is available to you on a CD that allows
you to select the bits that you want....offering optional extras for special
events"

"So there you have it, what must be the ultimate AV software. What's
more, it's all your by hitting the button below: you'll receive the disk and
the comprehensive brochure".

"Happy New Year from

LINKS are an important part of the web as they
take us to places we might never have seen (or sometimes even wanted to
see). Do you, Dear Reader, have a great link that you're just bursting to
tell others about? If so, let me have it for consideration and inclusion in
our USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY . Every little helps!

software offers!

See for yourself just how each works...and at no cost!

3D COMBINE

A FREE 21-day working version of this genuine three-dimensional
manipulation programme, just let me have
your
name and address, and a CD will be in the post to you within days. Send a
blank email with the subject ‘3D COMBINE’ to:

mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

INTRODUCTION TO HD-AV CD

Find out about the latest trend in A-V.

THE COMPLETE STUMPFL - One of the worlds most used combined
A-V/Imaging/Presentation Programmes, and it’s yours entirely free.

USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY

===================================

‘INSPIRATION FOR THE HOME’ is offered by online company of Shapps
& Coutts Ltd. Supplying all those interior enhancements that make a house a
home. From knick knacks to fold-flat flower vases; from children’s garden
horse swings (made from re-cycled tyres) to cast iron cookbook stands,
they’ve got the lot:

http://www.shappsandcoutts.com

____________________________

BEST 4 REVIEWS

Looking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology
and buyers guide web site. Read before you buy.:

http:// www.Best4Reviews.com.

____________________________

For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and
certainly recommend:

eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at
http://www.edimensional.com

________________________________

THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the
subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from
its pages a!:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk

__________________________________

MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation:.
Recommended by Rufus, and you can download a free copy by going to:

http://www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk

_______________________________

3D NEWS UPDATES visit this site for a terrific selection of
updating information on all things stereo and 3D

http://Giz3D.com

THE WIDESCREEN CENTRE

http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk

The astronomical centre of London
and the South-East. A positive Aladdin's Cave of astro telescopes...plus
some great advice.

For those who require lenticular processing of their 3D images we have
made contact with, Peter Sinclair of

SNAP 3D

Suite 122, 2255B Queen St. East

Toronto ON M4E 1G3

Canada

Tel.: +1 (416) 850-1972, Fax: +1 (416) 690-6635

E-Mail: info@snap3d.com

For a fully professional & commercial 3D service take a look at David
Burder's

http:// www.3Dimages.co.uk

Offering the complete range of stereoscopic services Tel . +44 (0)
20-8364 0022. Also 0104. Fax: 020-8364 1828

If you have any questions or, indeed,

ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

TONY SHAPPS

Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII

BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

Have something to say?

Email us today with your comments, opinions, criticisms, , or
suggestions. Your editor is 'all ears' (well, at least two) and waiting to
hear from you:

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?

If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to
Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or
change subscriber options again, send an email to

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If
it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

AND FINALLY...

People who laugh actually live longer than those who don't laugh. Few
persons realize that health actually varies according to the amount of
laughter.

Dr. James Walsh

Have you got a saying or a proverb that you particularly like? Why not
share it with others?

EXTRA!EXTRA!

A recession-busting gift for you, and you,
and you....

=================================

Dear [Column#2]

If the economy is making you feel like New Year's cheer is in rather short
supply, then I've got some good news for you. My good friend
Michael Green has written a new eBook called:' How To Beat Recession --
101 'Must Have' Recession-Busting Hints & Tips'

Now normally Michael Green's toolkits retail for a fortune, but on this
occasion he has been kind enough to offer a copy to my readers without
charge, but only if you download your copy now. I've read this excellent new
eBook and would guess that even if you implement just a handful of the 101 recession-busting ideas during 2009, you'll be laughing.
So, download it right now at:

http://www.HowToBeatRecession.com

MAKE IT A HAPPIER HAPPY NEW
YEAR

[Column#2]

P.S. Go ahead and grab your copy now at:

http://www.HowToBeatRecession.com

... before Michael realizes that he should be charging for these types of ideas!

Issue 92 for 9th September 2008

2008-12-11T02:42:00.000-08:00

Here's Issue Number 92 for the 9th December 2008 for your enjoyment .Your opinions, comments and suggestions are always welcome.

THE MATIUS NEW YEARS GIFT
FOR AV CONCEPTS READERS
Writes Matius Shriver: "This is a very special week for me because I am able to do something nice for my readers. What's that? you may well ask (and even if you don't I'm about to tell you)".

"Through the courtesy of Tony's old firm - The Widescreen Centre - I have obtained a small supply of the popular BBC Sky At Night calendars for 2009. It's beautifully illustrated with a large, full colour, whole page astro photo for each month".

"Not only that, there's plenty of room on the calendar to add your own notes for each day. It also details interesting heavenly action such as the Quadrantes Meteor Shower which peaks on the night of Saturday 3rd January 2009 - something to watch out for".

"Then there's details of comets, and where they might be spotted during the year. Plus lots of other astronomical details and information".

"In line with the editorial policy of AV CONCEPTS I propose to offer one of these delightful calendars to the first ten persons who answer my easy astral quiz - so here goes:

QUESTION ONE: a Barlow is like a./ a teleconverter lens, or b./ a basement wine cellar, or c./ a miss-spelling of the word 'below?
QUESTION TWO: a Catadioptric is rather like a./ short-sighted pussycat, or b./ a telephoto lens but squeezed up, or c./ a Roman war machine?
QUESTION THREE: next year sees the celebration of a./ Galileo's 400th birthday, or b./ Galileo's invention of the telescope, or c./ Galileo's championing of Copernicanism?
Tie-breaker: "I like Matius Shriver's astro column because........."
"Answers by next Friday please complete with your name and address so that we can send out your calendar if you're one of the first ten replies.

Please email the answers and tie-breaker to:
tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
as he has agreed to send out the winning prizes on my behalf (well, what's the point of having an editor if you don't make use of him?)".

Seasons Greetings to you all.

Matius

p.s. I'll be back with my regular column next week so please send in your questions as usual.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

THINGS TO REMEMBER:
Next year is a./ the Year of Astronomy, and b./ the 400th Anniversary of Galileo's (credited) invention of the telescope. To celebrate these two great occasions my friends, at the firm of ‘Science Replicas’, have produced a working model of his original telescope; but get this, they have manufactured this AS A PAPER KIT (and no kidding, it actually works!). An ideal educational present for any child or adult with the vaguest interest in the stars.
The kit is just £4.9 9 (about US $ 9.00) and you can get it here:

http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk/Galileo.htm

Renoir was never like THIS !

This week's 3D anaglyph comes from Peter Sinclair of SNAP 3D, a Canadian company that specialises in the production of lenticulated prints.
Two weeks ago we carried the first information on this firm because we were impressed with the samples that they sent us. We have since been in touch with them to find out just what service they offer.
So, first, let's take the Renoir painting illustrated above. As you are probably aware, the original painting was entirely flat, but SNAP 3D produced this stereo version. They also sent us the left-eye and eight-eye image, thus allowing your editor to produce the above anaglyph image (using his favourite 3D COMBINE programme).
Interestingly, Peter tells us that they can offer this conversion-of-flat-photos-to-3D service to the likes of you and me. With this service you get a 3D lenticular print NOT an analglyph. This means that glasses are NOT required to view your print.

So, why not dust off your Nimslo's and Nishika 3D cameras because this company can process prints from any of the cameras shown here PLUS 5 lens cameras. In fact, Snap3D can actually supply prints from all the Image Tech models including the 1000, FX, Magic, Magic Plus, Trio, Trilogy, Wizard, and Photon. They also print for the Nimslo and Nimslo Quadra, as well as the Nishika N 8000 and N 9000,and the Rittai and Rittai II.

You'll find SNAP 3D's address and information in our useful links at the end of this newsletter.
As always, this week's 3D image is suitable for viewing with a pair of anaglyph red/cyan or red/green glasses. This is an anaglyph conversion from David's two images using the popular '3D COMBINE'. You can obtain your trial copy by clicking here:

EDITORS NOTE: If you have a favourite 3D image you would like published I'd be delighted to see it. The easiest, for me, would be an anaglyph image (like the above) but if you have two separate images I can convert them without any problem. Send to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

______________________________________________

THINKS
One man alone can be pretty dumb sometimes, but for real bona fide stupidity, there ain't nothin' can beat teamwork.Edward Abbey

----------------------------------------------------------------
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!

CADDIE. These days the word 'caddie' is almost exclusively used to describe the person who carries a golfer's clubs around the course, or the little cart pushed by the golfer that has taken over from the caddie for the majority of golfers. In Scotland the word was a local form of cadet and was previously used to describe errand boys and other men who earned their living in the streets.

-------------------------------------------------------------

PROJECTION SCREENSTHE HOME CINEMA
ARE THERE DIFFERENCES
Writes Sophie: "Last week I wrote in a general way about screens and their use in the home, but promised to go into more detail. so, here goes".

"The type of screen that is most suitable for use in you home depends to a large extent on your other viewing requirements. For example, is it your lounge that doubles as a cinema? Or are you one of the lucky ones who have a spare room that can be turned into a replica of the local Odeon or Ritz emporium? What is an ideal screen for one is obviously not going to be suitable for the other".

"Then there's the problem that is derived from the actual shape of your viewing room. A square lounge will often have seats, such as sofas, along the side and not facing the proposed areas where your screen is to be located; this, in turn can sometimes govern the type of screen surface that you have to use. Again, is your screen installation going to be of the permanent kind, is it going to have to be hidden when not in use...or totally removable so that it can be stored away in a cupboard?"

"Each and every one of these factors must be considered when making your plans for home projection. In most cases it is likely to be a compromise, not only between the equipment and the location, but also between you and your spouse or partner!"

"If you can install and leave a screen 'in situ' then a nice motorised model is ideal. This is where The Widescreen Centre score because they supply screens from a variety of major manufacturers and seem still to have types to suit all pockets. Take, for example, this variable format model. With this you can always have the right screen shape on which to project, no matter if the film is 1.33:1, 1.7:1 (16:9) or full 'CinemaScope' of 2.35:1 it offers fully motorised masking along with the motorised drop down screen! What more could a happy household demand?"

"Next week: Portable Models"

SOPHIE

p.s. Apart from offering image control systems and software, Stumpfl are also one of Europe's largest screen manufacturers. Their quality is excellent and their prices are truly competitive. I will tell you more about them in future issues but you can find out immediately by going to The Widescreen Centre at:
http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk

--------------------------------------------------

HAVING YOUR SAY - Readers Comments to the editor
Writes Tony: "From time to time I get letters of criticism from readers which, in itself, is a good thing because without your response I might carry on regardless of your wishes. But it can sometimes happen that I get to feel slightly 'miffed' when, having slaved over an issue, I receive a missive like the following one from Jochan Feildmeister in, I think, Austria (I say 'I think' because with a .com ending to his email address it is, of course, hard to tell the exact location)".

Jochan says: "I have been read your publications AV CONCEPTS right from the start, and just before even that my memory is from the days of the bi-monthly printed version of SIGHT'N SOUND which you used to edit when you were with The Widescreen Centre. I remember to pick up the first copy when I made visit to your store in London many years ago".

"What I did like about SIGHT'N SOUND and also at start of AV CONCEPTS was to too excellent coverage of my hobby subjects which are proper audiovisual to use the slide projectors and movie making with the real cine camera with Super-8 film stock".

"However, in recent issues you seem to stopped this type of report and I search hardly be able to find any news or views on this subject. I do feel that in the future I may want to stop to have your newsletter because of this. Can you please tell me what is the situation?"

EDITORS NOTE: Firstly I must say that I am always totally amazed, and humbled, by the manner in which continentals manage to speak our language so well, and even write it lucidly: perhaps not perfectly, but certain fully able to make the point. ( I have been struggling with french for many years without much success - but that's another story.
So let me address Jochan complaints.

LACK OF AUDIOVISUAL NEWS. I feel that he must have missed some recent issues of AV CONCEPTS because we have covered some of Stumpfl's latest work and successes and, of course still have available for the asking their very latest colour brochure on their state-of-the-art systems along with the free CD which contains the full Stumpfl control programme.
This week, and last, our Sophie has bi-passed her usual 'spiel' on Internet Marketing to write about various types of screens for the home movie cinema. Whilst I brought you - last week - the news on the various Super-8 publications and camera availability from such firms as Pro-8 and Super-8 Today.

My remit for AV CONCEPTS has, and always will be, to cover as wide a spectrum as possible of AV, INTERNET MARKETING, 3D (you might have noticed this recently), VIRTUAL REALITY, FLIGHT SIMULATION, and even FISHING with our Jack. I'm not sure what more I can offer but I'm always willing to listen to readers on the subject.

-------------------------------------------------------
LINKS are an important part of the web as they take us to places we might never have seen (or sometimes even wanted to see). Do you, Dear Reader, have a great link that you're just bursting to tell others about? If so, let me have it for consideration and inclusion in our

USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY .

Free 'AV CONCEPTS' software offers!See for yourself just how each works...and at no cost!

3D COMBINE
A FREE 21-day working version of this genuine three-dimensional manipulation programme, just let me have your name and address, and a CD will be in the post to you within days. Send a blank email with the subject ‘3D COMBINE’ to:
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

INTRODUCTION TO HD-AV CDFind out about the latest trend in A-V.
THE COMPLETE STUMPFL - One of the worlds most used combined A-V/Imaging/Presentation Programmes, and it’s yours entirely free.
Email your requests to: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY

===================================
‘INSPIRATION FOR THE HOME’ is offered by online company of Shapps & Coutts Ltd. Supplying all those interior enhancements that make a house a home. From knick knacks to fold-flat flower vases; from children’s garden horse swings (made from re-cycled tyres) to cast iron cookbook stands, they’ve got the lot:

http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/
BEST FOR REVIEWSLooking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology and buyers guide web site. Read before you buy.:

http:// http://www.best4reviews.com/.

For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at http://www.edimensional.com/
THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from its pages a!:

http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk/

MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation:. Recommended by Rufus, and you can download a free copy by going to: http://www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk/

THE WIDESCREEN CENTREhttp://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk/The astronomical centre of London and the South-East. A positive Aladdin's Cave of astro telescopes...plus some great advice.

For those who require lenticular processing of their 3D images we have made contact with, Peter Sinclair of
SNAP 3DSuite 122, 2255B Queen St. East Toronto ON M4E 1G3 Canada Tel.: +1 (416) 850-1972, Fax: +1 (416) 690-6635 E-Mail: info@snap3d.com

For a fully professional & commercial 3D service take a look at David Burder's website.
http://www.3dimages.co.uk/
Offering the complete range of stereoscopic services
Tel . +44 (0) 20-8364 0022. Also 0104. Fax: 020-8364 1828

---------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
TONY SHAPPSEditor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
Have something to say? Email us today with your comments, opinions, criticisms, , or suggestions. Your editor is 'all ears' (well, at least two) and waiting to hear from you:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
AND FINALLY...THE LAST LAUGHAh Mozart! He was happily married - but his wife wasn't.Victor Borge

MEET VOX-ATC...Rufus reveals all!

2008-08-18T03:22:00.000-07:00

AV CONCEPTS
issue 77 Dated: Tuesday 19th August 2008
FLIGHT SIMULATION with Rufus, ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie, VIRTUAL REALITY with Rufus, 3D, ASTRONOMY with Matius, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK with Tony, SUPER-8 with Rufus, AUDIOVISUAL, and lots more!
========
FEEDBACK - a note from your editor.
=======
Writes Tony: "It’s a bumper week with a fascinating review from our Rufus about actually talking to your computer, and receiving an intelligent answer; Matius with his ever-helpful astro advice. And there’s the concluding part of my plain mans guide to getting on the web. All grist to the mill, as you might say".

Next week we change tack, with other subjects, but for this week - READ ON
Tony
Editor: AV CONCEPTS
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
===================================
-----------------------------------
...this week's issue features
===================================
* FEEDBACK
* A PLAIN MAN’S GUIDE TO ACCESSING THE WEB.
Part Four: ‘the secrets of UPLOADING and DOWNLOADING’.
* THINKS
* MATIIUS SHRIVER ON ASTRONOMY A beginners guide to
choosing and using a first telescope - what to avoid
and what to buy.
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!
* TALKING TO THE VIRTUAL TOWER - Or what is VOX-ATC?
* NEXT ISSUE
* OUR FREE SOFTWARE - find out about HD-AV
* COMPLAINTS
* ‘AV CONCEPTS’ USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY.
* HOW TO CONTACT US.
------------------------
========================
A PLAIN MAN’S GUIDE TO
ACCESSING THE WEB.
Part Four: ‘the secrets of
UPLOADING and DOWNLOADING’.
================================
--------------------------------
WRITES TONY: "I began this series talking about ‘FTP’ and transferring your website to the net. I’d like to go into a little more detail about this aspect of web control because it is most important".

"First, let’s assume that you took my advice and have now got a website (be it only one page, or several) in the embryo stage i.e. sitting there in your FRONT PAGE programme. And let’s also take it for granted that you have negotiated with your server (i.e. the people that you pay to host your email account...remember I said that you often get an allocation of free web space, don’t miss out on this) so that you should by now have a web page up which merely says something like ‘held for XXXXX web’, or similar".

"The question is several fold".

"First you need to download a bit of software to allow that FTP (file transfer protocol). By far the easiest one to use, and it’s a free download, is called ‘WhizFTP’ and you’ll find them at:

http://software.emule.com/whizftp-1-0

Once downloaded this comes up with a panel as explained in my first article in this series. In the centre of this panel is a second empty panel which has the words CONNECT NEW EDIT DELETE along the bottom. Select NEW and then fill in the details of your web page".

Now, it’s at this point that you might run into difficulties (I did). But it is essential to get this right because otherwise you’ll not be in a position to load up your web page on to the net.
Secondly, you’ll find that the big problem - and one I continually run into (and this is common to so many instruction books, help files, and similar) - is that the writer of these brilliant slices of journalism always assume that you already have a deep knowledge of the basics. I didn’t, and I don’t suppose many beginners do. So, how do you fill in the necessary panels when you don’t fully understand what you are being asked to enter?"

"The answer is to email me, and I will send you a series of ‘screen grabs’ showing you exactly what you need to enter, and in which box to put your words!".

"Once you have got WhizFTP up and working, all you need do is to open it on one side of your screen, and on the other side open your windows explorer panel and navigate to your web page. You then click on and open the folder and you will see at least one page marked ‘INDEX’. This is your main page and you simply drag it across into WhizFTP and place it on the page within the ‘NEW’ file that you have opened. This will deposit a copy of that INDEX file on the web…..and in your web space".

"You can also operate the process in reverse by dragging the INDEX image from WhizFTP into your Windows Explorer webpage file, It works in both directions. You will also need to drag across any images that you intend to appear on that page and deposit them in a folder marked IMAGES If there’s not one there you’ll surely have one alongside your original FRONT PAGE in your computer and you can drag the lot across then add pictures as necessary".

"And that’s all there is to it, except for keeping it up-to-date. Any questions? Feel free to come back to me".

"For a copy of the ‘Screen Grab’ just email me in the usual way by

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Tony
TONYSHAPPS
Editor: AV CONCEPTS
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Back issues appear on my blog page:
http://www.tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
========================
THINKS
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm ... As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands. One for helping yourself, the other for helping others - Audrey Hepburn
===========================
-----------------------------
MATIUS SHRIVER ON ASTRONOMY
===========================--
A beginners guide to choosing
and using a first telescope -
what to avoid and what to buy
=============================
WRITES MATIUS: "When you first start out in astronomy the range and choice of telescopes can be truly daunting. So it’s worthwhile taking a little time to consider both what you would like to own, and what is practical in your current living situation".

"For example, you’ll find that you will be offered, at the lower end of the market, the relatively simple 60 mm refractor as a beginner's instrument. Don’t be quick to turn this down. It's not expensive and - provided you get the right advice (see my later comments) - will enable you to have a quick look at a range of objects". Additionally, refractors of this diameter actually do make powerful overland telescopes; whilst not being their prime use is an handy extension of usage. If you live by the coast then this is a nice bonus".

"You’ll also find that many manufacturers have now added a computer-control handset thus giving you a simpler method of finding one heavenly body, out of a myriads of object in the night sky. However, the drawback is that the 60 mm will often show only a small fraction of the objects that are contained in the computer database. This means that, unless you have really dark and clear observing conditions, most of the time the instrument will simply search the heavens to show yet another dark patch of sky".

CONTINUES MATIUS: "So, what’s the solution? Well, I would recommend that, even if you are a beginner, you opt for good 115 mm, or larger reflector, if you can afford it. These days, prices are extremely favourable and the cost will be quite reasonable given that the aperture - and hence the light gathering potential – will be just over twice that of a 60 mm refractor. This will effectively show you a much larger and wider range of objects".

"Another consideration is the nature of your personal interests . If you’re keen on observing the moon or planets, or maybe double stars, you’ll require a long-focal-length instrument giving you maximum contrast of images, plus a very stable mounting. Keep in mind that a motor drive is not absolutely essential for planetary observation, because it doesn't matter if the planet drifts a little from the centre as long as it remains in the region of best definition of whichever eyepiece you are using".

"This is why many planetary observers prefer long-focus refractors, particularly of the apochromatic or fluorite variety; however, these can be very expensive compared with a long-focus Newtonian reflector that will still give you virtually as good performance if you look after it and keep it clean and dust free. A really sturdy mounting on a solid base is an essential, but this does tend to require that the base, if not the whole mounting, is kept permanently set up".

"Given these considerations, and if I am pushed to recommend the best telescope - one for all seasons, so to speak, with money no object - I would probably opt for a Newtonian reflector of around 300 to 400 mm focal length".

"However, once again, I must stress how important it is to visit a dealer who knows what he or she is talking about and get the best advice. And in this area I can do no better than point you towards Dr. Simon Bennett of The Widescreen Centre (yes, that’s right, Tony’s old firm) who is an acknowledged expert in this field, and who I know will be totally honest with you. Have a word with him on 020 7935 2580 or email him at:

simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk

But, whatever you decide please, PLEASE, do not go to a supermarket outlet that appears to be offering the ‘best price’ that includes ‘a million’ crappy eyepieces. You’ll end up being disappointed and put off astronomy for life".

Yours
Matius
p.s. A reminder that my ‘MATIUS SHRIVER’S GUIDE TO ASTRONOMICAL FILTERS’ is available as a free PDF download. Just email:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
and head your email ‘FILTERS’.
==============================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!
------------------------------
‘IN THE PINK’ ONE: Used in this context ‘pink’ does not refer to the colour but to point, as in 'pinking-shears' characterized by their blades with pointed edges. To be ‘in the pink’, or to put it more fully, to be in the best of condition, is to be in the best of health, the peak of fitness. In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare refers to "the very pink of courtesy", and Oliver Goldsmiths most popular play ‘She Stoops To Conquer’ contains a reference to the very pink of perfection!

‘IN THE PINK’ TWO: in spite of the above, you can really get ‘in the pink’ at:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/cgi-bin/index.pl?ACTION=CATEGORY&CATEGORY_ID=9

where you’ll find lots of pink stuff, including pink mice and pink computer keyboards!
============================
TALKING TO THE VIRTUAL TOWER
============================
Or what is VOX-ATC?
============================
Says Rufus: "My fascination with flight simulation is well known, and I am continually striving to increase the realism because that’s part of the fun. Now, I have to say that I use flight simulation on my computer not as a game but as a guide to flying the real thing. So anything that enhances this experience is worthwhile having".

"And into this are drops a programme, a bit of unique software, that is truly worth having. It’s called VOX-ATC. ‘ATC’ being the accepted shortening of the words ‘AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL’. The word ‘VOX’ was added by the software programmer to distinguish it from Microsoft’s own system".

"With this programme installed you first have to train it to recognise your dulcet tones; in this case it’s not configured with the usual ‘cat sat on the mat’, but with such heartwarming phrases as: ‘PLYMOUTH TOWER GOLF BRAVO BRAVO LIMA MIKE RADIO CHECK ONE ONE EIGHT DECIMAL ONE FIVE’, which real pilots will immediately recognise as ‘pilot-speak’".

"Once you have trained the speech recognition section of the programme you can then proceed to make use of it. Quite frankly the results are quite amazing. For example, for the radio check you hve to set your radio stack in the virtual aircraft to the genuine Plymouth control tower frequency of 118.15 and then you will find that they answer you just like the real thing".

"If you’re using a Yoke, which is a version of the control stick, or column, with two handles that you will have probably seen on small aircraft (Grumman, Pipers and similar), you can actually programme this so that you have a button to press to speak to the tower or other ATC contacts during the flight".

"As in real life it is necessary to file a flight plan and then follow it, changing frequencies as you move from one air space to another, but always being in contact with an air traffic controller along the way. You speak to them and get the right responses depending on your position, and receive flight instructions right through from engine start-up to landing at your destination".

"A truly excellent programme giving you a real-life experience (not to mention a steep learning curve). Take a look at the VOX movie by going to:

http://www.rcsimulations.com/vox_atc_x_uk.html

who are the distributors of this programme".

Rufus Stone
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
p.s. Just a reminder that ‘3D COMBINE’ - the unlimited time version - remains at GBP 23.50 (about US $44.00) and that includes postage in that price. Go to:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk/Page%20Ten.htm#RIGHTS
p.p.s And if that’s not enough for you, you can get instant access to the webs best modern online GAMING-IN-3D’ toolkit…with all the extras thrown in, at:
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
-------------------------------------------
===========================================
AND FOR THE FUTURE
===========================
NEXT ISSUE: Sophie tells you how to protect your intellectual property when you offer a product on the net.
NEXT ISSUE: Matius continues with one of his uplifting astronomy articles.
MEXT ISSUE: Jack is back with his favourite Cameras and Projectors
NEXT ISSUE: Rufus has a thing or two to say
----------------------------------------
========================================
FREE SOFTWARE! Find out how it works!
========================================
3D COMBINE
A FREE 21-day working version of this genuine three-dimensional manipulation programme, just let me have your name and address, and a CD will be in the post to you within days. Send a blank email with the subject ‘3D COMBINE’ to:
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

INTRODUCTION TO HD-AV CD
Find out about the latest trend in A-V.
Email your requests to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==================================
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
============================
USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY
=============================
For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:
eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at:
http://www.edimensional.com
BEST FOR REVIEWWS
Looking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology and buyers guide web site.:
http:// www.Best4Reviews.com.
THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from its pages a!:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk
MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation: check our a free edition
www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk
===========================
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------

IN THE PINK, EVEN MORE SO!

2008-07-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

AV CONCEPTS
issue 71 Dated Tuesday 8th July 2008
ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie, VIRTUAL REALITY with Rufus, 3D, ASTRONOMY with Matius, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK with Tony, AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION with Rufus, and lots more!

========
FEEDBACK - a note from your editor.
=======
Writes Tony: "You’ll see in this current edition that I have taken to heart some of the suggestions as outlined by the readers letters last week. In essence, this means that there will be less APPENDIX (Well, I’ve had ‘em all out!) items, and more editorial. I hope that this pleases you?"

"Then there’s Sophie’s amazing piece about FOLD FLAT flower vases! Until I saw them I thought it was a joke. And finally, Rufus winds up his short 3D course….so there’s plenty of additional reading this week"
Tony
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
"Meanwhile, on to this week…
===================================
-----------------------------------
...this week's issue features
===================================
* FEEDBACK
* IN THE PINK, EVEN MORE SO!
* THINKS!
* MATIUS ON ASTRONOMY... talks about REFRACTORS
* JOHN’S WORDS OF WISDOM
* Part IV 3D PLUS AND OTHERS........
* THINKS!
* OUR FREE SOFTWARE
* COMPLAINTS
* SIX FREE MINI-COURSES.
* ‘AV CONCEPTS’ USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY.
* HOW TO CONTACT US.
===========================
SOPHIE WRITES:
===========================
IN THE PINK, EVEN MORE SO!
===========================
"You may recall my references to the Tony’s spouse’s Shapps & Coutts’ website. This site has rapidly expanded to include some truly fascinating products.

For example. Have you ever heard of a ‘FOLD-FLAT’ FLOWER VASE?

No, I thought not. Neither had I until I actually saw one being used. They offer a variety of designs and, when filled with water and flowers they are virtually indistinguishable, at a distance, from a real glass flower vase.

Now, amazingly, these colourful fold-flat vases can be used again and again and again so, instead of your recipient having to search around for an empty vase, they can be kept to hand, FLAT, in the kitchen drawer. At GBP 7.99 they are a long-lasting bargain. But, why not see for yourself?

Go to:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/cgi-bin/index.pl?ACTION=CATEGORY&CATEGORY_ID=17

AND WHAT’S MORE...
...as if that wasn’t enough, they also offer a wonderful range of the popular PINK COLOURED items. Any of which make perfect presents for the girl friend or wife. Take, for example the Pink Computer Keyboard and Pink Mouse Set: at GBP 20.00 (around U.S. % 40.00) they make the ideal pink accessory for your desk at work or at home. You get a pink keyboard, pink mouse and pink heart shaped mouse mat. The keyboard has a PS2 connector and a USB adaptor for maximum flexibility. The mouse connects to the USB port. Compatible with Windows XP/2003/Vista. Again, you can see them at:

http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/cgi-bin/index.pl?ACTION=CATEGORY&CATEGORY_ID=9

The main site can be reached by going to is fascinating and its truly amazing what you will find there; maybe the ideal present for someone special. SHAPPS AND COUTTS LIMITED offers you true inspiration for the home:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com
Yours truly,
Sophie
p.s. Is that all right Tony, or should I have said more?
(EDITORS NOTE: "Not bad Sophie, thanks for the plug)

=========================================================
THINKS!
Early adoption of innovation might not be natural to everyone - but it is an option worth considering, especially if you have a feeling that the present situation can be improved.
=============================================
MATIUS ON ASTRONOMY... talks about REFRACTORS
===============================================
Writes Matius: "This week I’d like to share a small bit of history with you and talk about REFRACTORING TELESCOPES".

"The refracting telescope was invented in 1608 by Hans Lippershey in Holland, and it was actually utilised in the beginning purely for military work; however, the first application in astronomy was by Galileo. Then along came Kepler in 1611 and improved on the design by using two convex lenses which made the image upside down. In spite of the tremendous progress in modern optics, we still use Kepler's design today...with a few improvements on the actual quality of the glassware, of course".

"Refractors are the type of telescope that most of us are familiar with and take the following form:
1. Long tube, made of metal (originally brass), plastic, or wood
2. Glass combination lens at the front end (objective lens)
3. Second glass combination lens (eyepiece)
The tube then holds the lenses in place at the correct distance from one another. The tube also helps to keeps out dust, moisture and light that would interfere with forming a good image. The objective lens gathers the light, and bends or ‘refracts’ it to a focus near the back of the tube. The eyepiece brings the image to your eye, and magnifies the image".
"That’s the basis. Then using eyepieces of different focal lengths you achieve different degrees of magnifications. In fact, you can easily calculate this magnification by dividing the focal length of the telescope, by the focal length of the eyepiece, the maximum you can achieve from any telescope is twice the diameter of the objective e.g., a 70mm scope will allow you to go up to 140x"

Continues Matius: "Achromatic refractors use lenses that are not extensively corrected to prevent chromatic aberration, which is a rainbow halo that sometimes appears around images seen through a refractor. Instead, they usually have "coated" lenses to reduce this problem. Apochromatic refractors use either multiple-lens designs or lenses made of other types of glass (such as fluorite) to prevent chromatic aberration. Apochromatic refractors are much more expensive than achromatic refractors. However with the latest technology being used in lens production the cost of such refractors has brought the prices down considerably".

"Refractors have good resolution, high enough to see details in planets and binary stars. However, it is difficult to make large objective lenses (greater than 6 inches or 150mm) for refractors. This means that Refractors are relatively expensive, if you consider the cost per unit of aperture. Because the aperture is limited, a refractor is less useful for observing faint, deep-sky objects, like galaxies and nebulae, than other types of telescopes".
"Any questions?"

Matius".
p.s. You can contact me via Tony’s email. And in case you’ve not got it (!) Tony’s email address is:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==================================
===========================
JOHN PAGE’S WORDS OF WISDOM
===========================
WRITES JOHN: "Remove unwanted blobs of chewing gum by placing a bag of ice cubes over the gum freeze it. Tap the frozen gum with a hammer to break it up and then pick off as much as you can. Ally remaining bits can be removed using a cloth dipped in methylated spirits".
Yours
John
==================================
"STEREO STARTERS" with Rufus Stone
==================================
Part IV 3D PLUS AND OTHERS........
==================================
Says Rufus: "Last week I finished up by talking about a programme called ‘3D PLUS’. The effect is truly fascinating because it lets view non 3-D films in a pretty good, simulated stereo - and it does all this in real time while you are watching. Your films require no special preparation other than the installation of the ‘3D PLUS’ software and the usual pair of Shutter Glasses for viewing - the rest of the equipment you will already own".

"You actually use the ‘3D PLUS’ software in place of any other DVD playing programs: you can then view in either 2-D or 3-D, but the former is pointless once you go stereo".

"I have watched quite a number of films in the converted format. Some work better than others; for example, one of the Harry Potter films, the second one I think, was particularly good, whilst one or two others were nowhere near as effective...but great fun to watch nevertheless".

"However, even more fun, is that you are not confined to professionally-made stereoscopic DVDs. By using the software known as ‘3D COMBINE’ you will be able to convert your own AVI sequences - you know the ones that you have shot with either your Camcorder or Digital camera - or similarly shot, video sequences - into truly effective 3-D. In fact this program lets you do all sorts of 3-D tricks including turning images into the anaglyph (using red/cyan viewing glasses …previously mentioned in Part II of this course) so that you can give them to friends with a pair of cheap card-mounted glasses...just to give them a ‘taste of 3D’".

"This is a true 3D manipulation program, which also allows you to correct stereo pairs if needs be. Actual viewing can be done in a number of ways, which means that you to take full advantage of the potential of those LCD Shutter Glasses; in fact it laterally expands their use into related areas - and it’s good fun, too!"

"AND FINALLY...FOR USERS OF MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR (and many other games - I have a list available)...you can take the fullest possible advantage of the stereoscopic 3D effect with games that offer what is described as a Virtual Reality setting".

"In normal use, by pressing a switch/lever/ or some knob on your hand controller, you can look around you in separate, individual, scenes or views. But by adding a further, extremely small pieces of equipment, not even as large as a matchbox, you can scan continuously around you in one smooth action simply by moving your head slightly...this gives you a far more natural view of your location. Just move your head and your in-game view instantly responds. Coupled with the stereoscopic images derived from your shutter glass installation, you start to emulate the real world in depth, view and additional realism".

"The work of this extra piece of equipment – known as MOTION TRACKING - is available under the trade name of TrackIR. It simply sits on top of your monitor (alongside the IR sender if you decide to use wireless glasses). It is actually an extraordinary advanced, highly sophisticated, and incredibly specialized digital camera that can distinguish your every movement and then translate it into action on the screen. It is fiendishly clever and no gamer should be without one. You can check it out with an on-screen video demonstration by going to:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk
Or you can now and get instant access to the webs best modern online 3D toolkit…with all the extras thrown in.
Rufus Stone
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
p.s. Don’t forget to take a look at my website at:
http://www.gaming-in-3d.com
p.p.s. You’ll also find some buying info at:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk
=============================================
THINKS! See one melée of unruly people and you've seen a maul - anon
==============================================
FREE 3D SOFTWARE! Find out how it works!
=================
FAMOUS ‘3D COMBINE' Stereoscopic Image Manipulation program. Try the 21-day free trial CD version of this excellent program FREE OF CHARGE.
INTRODUCTION TO HD-AV CD
Email your requests to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==================================
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
Now with 6989 readers.
=============================
USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY
=============================
For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:
eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at:
http://www.edimensional.com
BEST FOR REVIEWWS
Looking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology and buyers guide web site.:
http:// www.Best4Reviews.com.

THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from its pages a!:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk

MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation: check our a free edition
www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk
===========================
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------

issue 68 Dated Tuesday 17th June 2008

2008-06-20T03:15:00.000-07:00

AV CONCEPTS
issue 68 Dated Tuesday 17th June 2008

VIRTUAL REALITY with Rufus, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie, ASTRONOMY with Matius, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK with Tony, AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION with Rufus, and lots more!

========
FEEDBACK - a note from your editor.
=======
Writes Tony: "This week Rufus brings you the extended Part One of his special 3D course. I am sure that you will enjoy this, and his subsequent offerings in this new series. I know that I found it quite fascinating to read (and I thought I already knew about stereo).
So enjoy his dissertation, and then make a point of taking part in our great FREE competition quiz, brought to you by non other than our Jack. And just look at his prize: a bang up-to-the-minute example of modern technology which makes it really worth entering, so go to it!".
Tony Shapps
Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or leave a comment at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
"Meanwhile, on to this week…
===================================
-----------------------------------
...this week's issue features
===================================
* FEEDBACK
* "STEREO STARTERS" with Rufus Stone. PART ONE: ASK YOURSELF, IS IT REALLY 3D?
* THINKS unusual insurance claims!
* JACKS special COMPETITION: WIN A SOLAR CHARGER
* THINKS unusual insurance claims!
* JOHN PAGE’S WORDS OF WISDOM
* THINKS unusual insurance claims!
* ASTRONOMY - IN ABSENTIA!
* THINKS unusual insurance claims!
* FREE SOFTWARE
* READERS LETTERS
* BEL’S BARGAIN BASEMENT
* INCREASE OUR READERSHIP
* UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
* SIX FREE MINI-COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND.
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS.
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES.
* ‘AV CONCEPTS’ USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY.
* HOW TO CONTACT US.
========================================
====================================
"STEREO STARTERS" with Rufus Stone
=========================================
PART ONE: ASK YOURSELF, IS IT REALLY 3D?
=========================================
What do I mean when I enthuse about 3-D (which is actually a shortened way of saying ‘three-dimensional’)images?

Well, it’s most certainly not that misnomer applied by many a computer expert, who talks, glibly, about ‘3D modelling’ when they really only mean ‘perspective’ drawings, or images, that can be rotated. They do serve a useful purpose of course, but are really still only two-dimensional since the screen remains apparently and flat.

True, three-dimensional, stereoscopic images should appear to jump off the screen, or alternatively allow you to actually see into the distance, and perceive the separation between objects just like you do in real life with your own two eyes. The actual screen surface should virtually disappear, simply melts away, to becomes totally transparent and invisible, so that you see things in real vision. The artificial barrier that the screen represents is removed. Things, objects, people will appear to emerge from the screen, and go on behind you...that’s what I mean by ‘3D’. It is a totally different, invigorating, and exciting, experience. Good 3D should be like looking through a window with the glass pane removed.

But first, a short explanation to give you a better idea of what you should be looking for. What are the differences that make up a true 3-D image?

In the general run of things, most people have two eyes, positioned separately to the left and right of their noses...you’ve probably noticed this already!

But, and it’s a BIG BUT, what many people do not realize is that each eye, by the very nature of this positioning sees a slightly different viewpoint, or picture. In fact there is a distance separation between the two eyes - and the two perceived images - that averages around 63mm (and let me emphasize that this is only an ‘average’ distance, because no two people are alike, some eyes will have a greater separation, others some less).

Bearing this in mind, it’s this slight difference of viewpoint - observed by your right and left eye - that gives your brain to extract the necessary stereo information which it then combines to let you determine distance and distinguish between that distance, actual separation, and positioning of objects which you’re looking at.

There are, of course, other observational factors involved like the actual apparent object size (which is based upon your own lifelong experiences) since you know - for example - that a Ford, Chrysler or Jaguar automobile that looks small, moving in the distance, is still a full sized vehicle containing and controlled by full-sized human beings and not just a toy. This is because movement of any object is mentally compared with its surroundings. These movements all get thrown into the calculations; however, the different positioning of each eye is the main locator for the brain for distances up to and around 300ft (about 99-meters). Of course, all this happens unconsciously so that you’re not given to thinking about it all the time: you take it for granted in your daily life. It’s this displacement of vision, these two, ever so slightly, differing images that creates real-life depth.

NOW TRY THIS
And if you’re still in any doubt as to what I mean by 3D, just how it works, then why not try the following visual experiment:

Hold up your forefinger vertically in front of your face, say around 12-inches (30 cm’s) away from your nose. Now look at that finger with your left eye only by closing or covering your right eye. Repeat the exercise by looking at your finger with your right eye and closing or covering your left eye.

What happens? What do you see?

Your finger appears to move from right to left across your field of vision indicating the two different views as seen by your eyes. What’s more, it will be immediately apparent that the views seen behind your finger are also slightly different, marginally displaced to the left and right.

You’ll notice immediately that if you only have one eye open you will ‘see’ a flat image. With both eye’s open you perceive actual depth. Now, what if you can get your computer to duplicate this function and present your brain with two basically similar but different images - one for each eye - of course, you will be able to replicate real life, the actual seeing in depth. That’s 3D! And that’s what we’re trying to achieve with our 3D Computer Gaming.

Look at it this way. Artists and painters over the centuries tried to create apparent depth in their canvases. They did this with skilful manipulation of light, shade and texture within their pictures - take a look at the work of the Dutch painter Vermeer for several supreme examples of the way in which this artist depicts the quality or appearance of surfaces. If the lighting within the room where the canvas is hanging matches that of the picture, you can almost be fooled into believing that it is three-dimensional, especially if you’re not standing too close.
Then there are also some prime samples of the interior decorators art where a skilled artist has painted a ceiling in such a way that, when viewed from a certain position it might look as if there was a domed roof instead of a flat one (a superb example of this can be found in Moor Park Mansion, situated near Rickmansworth, England which has a version of this: stand within the entrance, look up and for all the world you could be fooled by the view that you are seeing).
Of course, camera-derived stereo imaging is almost as old as photography itself since the early pioneers reasoned that if we had two eyes we probably needed two lenses to create an image. And, believe me, there are literally thousands of ways of gaining a stereo image.

In fact, the world is being constantly assailed, almost bombarded, by enthusiasts who think that they have discovered the ‘Holy Grail’ of 3D, only to find that it has already been done many times over. So much so, that I once attended an exhibition which had Stands for around 22 enthusiastic inventors; of that group, at least 20 of them said, when asked about the viability of their latest brainchild: "Oh, this is just a prototype friend, I’m not into production yet" and most of them never ever were. So you see, there’s ideas aplenty, but most of them stay just that - IDEAS!

NOW STEP INTO THE 21ST CENTURY
So, get this straight, I am not talking about any of these old-fashioned methods - as interesting as they might appear to the historian. Modern stereo/3D is streets ahead of that ancient stuff and the equal of any imaging system available today......and with far greater impact, too.
What’s more, you can achieve these newer, superb, and far more realistic, results with less hassle than ever Before...and with that piece of equipment that’s sitting in front of you right now. Read on...
=====================================================
IN PART TWO of this Course I’ll introduce you to the basics of computer 3D but if you can’t wait that long then my ‘GAMING IN 3D ToolKit’ will show you how to take full advantage of today’s superb equipment. Just head over to:
http://www.gaming-in-3d.com
now and get instant access to the webs best modern online 3D toolkit…with all the extras thrown in.
Rufus
Rufus Stone
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
p.s. Don’t forget to take a look at my website at:
http://www.gaming-in-3d.com
p.p.s. You’ll also find some buying info at:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk
=============================================
========================================
THINKS - unusual insurance claims: ONE
"Going to work at 7am this morning I drove out of my drive straight into a bus. The bus was 5 minutes early." (thanks N Bradley)
=========================
JACKS special COMPETITION
=========================
WIN A SOLAR CHARGER......
=========================
WRITES JACK: "If you own a Cell Phone, MP4 or MP3 Player, or indeed a Digital Camera, what do you do when the battery runs flat and you’re nowhere near a mains energy supply or, on holiday, you have left your charger behind?"

"The answer is this incredible SOLAR CHARGER that will give you instant access to power. In fact you can charge it anywhere via the use of natural sun - takes about three to six hours. Once charged you can use it for re=powering all those electronic gadgets that we carry about with us these days. And it’s all yours just for answering my simple AV CONCEPTS Quiz, so go to it:

QUESTION ONE: A goombay is a./ A dry dock in India, or b./ fear of bad weather in the Caribbean, or c./ a type of drum?
QUESTION TWO: Ailurophobia is a fear of a./ being thought too handsome, or b./ being scared of illness, or c./ fear of cats?
QUESTION THREE: TrackIR (note spelling) is the name given to a./ an Australian bushman, or b./ a motion-control system, or c./ a new GPS tracking device?
QUESTON FOUR: Jumna is the name of a./ the river on which stands the Taj Mahal, or b./ a select religious cult in Borneo, or c./ a type of Ethiopian dancing.
QUESTON FIVE: 3D-Plus is a./ a real-time system for converting your DVD’s to the third dimension, or b./ a computer enhancement for a mobile phone, or c./ a method of adding lettering to stereo photos?

Answers via eMail this coming Friday to your editor at:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Cheers, and good luck!
Jack
Jack Grossman
mailto:jack.troutcatchers@myzen.co.uk
’The man with all the right angles’
p.s. Of course, should you prefer fishing and want to know more about it, then drop in on:
http://www.troutcatchers.myzen.co.uk/
and join me on site"
===================
THINKS - unusual insurance claims: TWO
"Coming home I drove into the wrong house and collided with a tree I don't have."
===========================
JOHN PAGE’S WORDS OF WISDOM
===========================
WRITES JOHN: ""Here’s a great party gimmick that will amuse all, and get your guests wondering just how you did it. Fill balloons with coloured water and then freeze them. You can then burst the balloon to make an enormous round ice ball!"
Yours
John
============================================
THINKS - unusual insurance claims: THREE
"I was going at about 70 or 80 mph when my girlfriend on the pillion reached over and grabbed my testicles so I lost control."
============================================
ASTRONOMY –in absentia!
======================
Matius is away on vacation for a couple of weeks, but has left me the following piece for your perusal:

"You gets what ‘yer pays for" might almost be an axiom that can be applied to the purchase of your first telescope, or even when you arrive at the advanced stage and are about to upgrade".
"For the simple truth of the matter is that, as with most optically-based equipment, (and after a certain price point is reached) twice the price will only give you around a 10% improvement in quality. However, this should not deter you from considering the better, rather than the cheapest, models to buy".

"Of course, much depends on your own personal commitment to the hobby of astronomy: are you, for example, just a casual observer, do you have children or grandchildren that you’d like to point towards the stars, are you an avid observer? All these factors need to be taken into account when considering the type and, if you will excuse the pun, scope of the instrument that you intend buying".

"Then there’s the thorny question of whether you plump for a refractor, a reflector and Maksutov-Cassegrain configuration. And all that is without even thinking about actual cash outlay".

"It is for this reason that I will be extending my column over the next few months, to offer an advisory service. I hope by doing this that I can properly advise you, personally, on getting the telescope that matches your own requirements and intended usage. It is in this manner that I may be able to provide just the right information so that you can get just the product you need thus allowing you to enjoy the hours of pleasant observing that will result".

"See you when I get back"

"Matius"
So, there you have it. A new service that will provide you with just the information that you might need to get the best out of astronomy. Mail your questions for Matius via my email:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
address for the present, and I will forward them to Matius when he gets back.
Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor: ‘A-V CONCEPTS’
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to ‘AV CONCEPTS’ by sending a BLANK
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
===================================================
THINKS - unusual insurance claims: FOUR
"I was unable to stop in time and my car crashed into the other vehicle. The driver and passengers then left immediately for a vacation with injuries."
================================
FREE 3D SOFTWARE! Find out how it works!
=================
FAMOUS ‘3D COMBINE' Stereoscopic Image Manipulation program. Try the 21-day free trial CD version of this excellent program FREE OF CHARGE.
VR SHOW booklet CD is your guide to Stereo. Get the CD FREE OF CHARGE and print the booklet out for yourself.
INTRODUCTION TO HD-AV CD
Email your requests to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==============================
READERS WRITE -
================================
Hi Tony,
Excuse me for bothering you, but I know that you are interested in flight simulation and I’m wondering if you can supply any advice on upgrading my computer for the latest Microsoft FlightSim-X
Yours
Jeff Trowbridge, New Hampshire

EDITORS NOTE: "Hi Jeff. Now that’s difficult one because I have no idea of the equipment you already have. But I do know that one of the recommendations is that you install the new GeForce 9600GT graphics card to cope with the hi-tech nature of that new program. I’d also reckon that you need at least 2-3 Gig Ram, and possibly a new motherboard. I am sure that there are other things that might have to be changed as well. Do you hve a local computer store in your area? I usually find them extremely helpful. Let me know how you get on.
Tony
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==============================================
==================================
BEL’S BARGAIN BASEMENT
==================================
Offers you cannot possibly refuse!
==================================
WRITES BEL: "Ever wanted to do a bit of close-up photography in your own home...maybe shoot something for the web or your job? Well here’s a no hassle answer. I’m offering you the excellent Kaiser Studio-in-a-Box'. Sets up in minutes and is just 30 x 45 cm (12-inches x 18-inches) with a drawer containing a fold-out holding frame, plus a smart trapeze stand snuggling outside the baseboard. Objects are placed on baseboard, and frame folds out to carry background material.

There’s a background roll included. The lower drawer can be used to increase the length of the studio by 30 cm (12-inches). As mentioned, this is absolutely ideal for photographing objects for DISPLAY ON THE NET. Dead easy to carry because it’s just like an oversized brief case....regular price is GBP 89.00 (about US$ 160) But I’m willing to let the first buyer hve it for just GBP 78.00 - and I’ll throw in carriage as well".
"Check it out at:
http://www.secretcypher.myzen.co.uk
then contact Jack at:
mailto:jack.grossman@zen.co.uk
and he’ll do the rest"
Yours
Bel
Bel’s Bargain Basement
=============================================
WANT a FREE gift?
=============================================
Sign up a friend and you can look forward to receiving one of our 'AV CONCEPTS' free gifts. It's easily done. Just send the new email address, along with your own to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Hurry! Last calls as I’m running out of the FREE gifts you get when you sign someone on.
=============================================
============================================
UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
============================================
Sophie contacts list of useful web sites and online marketing areas. This should enable you to go directly to each and everyone listed below. Should you, however, find any problems we would appreciate it if you would let us know.
How To Write A Newsletter. If you have to run a club or firms newsletter, then this is the programme for you. Loads of ideas and pre-written copy:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm
How To Blog For Cash - need I say more?
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BLOGCASH
‘Instant Movie Making’ written by Ivan Watson, the doyen of movie making techniques, including script writing, and is still acknowledged as clearly ‘the best’ film making manual around….see for yourself:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON
Pure AdSense Gold helps you make sense of, and profit from, Google’s AdSense:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51
101 Essential Business Hints and Tips brings you years of experience at the touch of a keypad:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BUSINESS
MAILING DE LUXE. Want to mail all the members of your club, school, business or any other organisation? Well, this is how we at 'AV CONCEPTS' do it; and you can do the same by using 'Mailing List DeLuxe' so take a look at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Four.htm
========================================================
Want to know more about any of the above; complete details are available by going to:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm
====================================
AND HERE'S THE SIX FREE MINI-COURSES
====================================
...download them and make life a little more interesting.
-----------------------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES with RUFUS STONE and his introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
--------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON
-------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS with the 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm
===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
Now with 6989 readers.
=============================
USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY
=============================
For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:
eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at:
http://www.edimensional.com
BEST FOR REVIEWWS
Looking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology and buyers guide web site.:
http:// www.Best4Reviews.com.

THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from its pages a!:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk
IN THE PINK
With reference to Sophie’s recent mention of the ‘Shapps & Coutts’ website. The actual site can be reached by going to is fascinating and its truly amazing what you will find there; maybe the ideal present for someone special.
IN THE PINK offers you inspiration for the home:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com
MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation:
www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk
Looking for the best reviews? Take a look for yourself?
http://www.best4reviews.com
===========================
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------

AV CONCEPTS issue 65

2008-05-24T02:36:00.000-07:00

AV CONCEPTS

issue 65 Dated Tuesday 27th May 2008
ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie, ASTRONOMY with Matius, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK with Tony, VIRTUAL REALITY with Rufus, 3D, AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION with Rufus, and lots more!
========
FEEDBACK - a note from your editor.
========
Writes Tony: "this is the issue that is gong to make you your fortune - or so our Sophie seems to suggest. Compare that with a warning about parsimonious spending from Matius and take your choice".
Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
"Meanwhile, on to this week…
===================================
-----------------------------------
...this week's issue features
===================================
* FEEDBACK
* ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie: "Have you heard the one about making 20 K in 20-Days?
* THINKS!
* THE REFUS REVIEW: "More on Micro Aviator, and a FREE OFFER!"
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* The Matius ASTRONOMICAL ADVISORY CLINIC: "REMEMBER: You gets what 'yer pays for"
* THINKS!
* READERS WRITE
* INCREASE OUR READERSHIP
* UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
* SIX FREE MINI-COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND.
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS.
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES.
* 'AV CONCEPTS' USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY.
* HOW TO CONTACT US.
====================================================
ONLINE MARKETING with Sophie
====================================================
"Have you heard the one about making 20 K in 20-Days?
====================================================
Writes Sophie: "The internet is an hotbed of offers claiming to be able to make your fortune (and I'm not referring to those that constantly bombard you from so-called government officials in Nigeria etc., offering to share the U.S. $20,000,000 that they claim to have salted away if only you will give them your bank details!). No, I'm talking about software programmes and systems that claim to tell you how to personally make money online".

"Firstly, let me say that it can be done. But, and it's a big BUT, you have to either know from experience how to go about it, of find just the right advice, and I think I have found just that".
Writes Sophie: The internet is an hotbed of offers claiming to be able to make your fortune (and I'm not referring to those that constantly bombard you from so-called government officials in Nigeria etc., offering to share the U.S. $20,000,000 that they claim to have salted away if only you will give them your bank details!). No, I'm talking about software programmes and systems that claim to tell you how to personally make money online.

Firstly, let me say that I think it can be done. But, and it's a big BUT, you have to either know from experience how to go about it, of find just the right advice, and I think I have found just that.

The answer would appear to be in the form of a programme from that guru of online marketing, Michael Green and his HowTo Corporation. It's a programme that he calls the 2020 Challenge and he claims to be able to show you how to make US $20,000 in 20 days - I kid you not!"
Here, in his own words, is what Michael has to say about it: "It's absolutely true. You could realistically haul in $20,000 within just 20 Days! Fact is, you'll be using a tried and tested approach which actually works. And, what's more, the system works from a standing start. No existing product, qualifications or specific skills required. Note: You will want to be computer literate enough to use a computer, create a webpage and understand how to FTP files to commercial server space. In other words, have the first clue about using the internet".

He then goes on to say: "This is a self-contained toolkit. It includes absolutely everything you'll need to succeed. With the only exception being a float of around ten bucks and a domain and web server space (SOPHIE'S COMMENT: if you already have either a domain or a permanent ADSL connection the chances are you can also get some FREE web space). Works in just 20 Days even if you only go at it part-time. Plus it's completely flexible and you can pick and choose when you work on the system".

He continues: "Of course, there's nothing to stop you taking longer than 20 Days if you prefer and either way you can slot 'The 20/20 Challenge project' around the rest of your life - so there's no need to feel rushed about achieving your own personal objectives, once you own this toolkit. What's more, having used the toolkit once to earn your targeted $20k, you can simply use it again to earn another $20k from scratch. Oh, and then you can use it again... and again... and again... and..."

Now, when I first read this I immediately thought 'this is too good to be true' but then I found out that the offer is backed by a no hassle, cast-iron, full money-back 58-day guarantee. In other words, if it don't work for you in up to 56 days you've nothing to lose. I did some checking up and found that this guarantee has already been honored so I know that it's genuine.

But, I have gone on enough for this week. If you're interested in making a bob or two, or a buck or two, then take a look at:

http://www.the2020challenge.com/

and check it out for yourself.
Yours truly,
Sophie
p.s. Take a look at some of my other suggestions at the end of this issue, I think you'll find them of some interest.
p.p.s If you need to contact me, please go through Tony and he will pass on your messages: I promise you and answer.
=========================
THINKS
Water, taken in moderation, cannot hurt anybody - Mark Twain
=====================
THE REFUS REVIEW
=====================
More on Micro Aviator, and a FREE OFFER!
=====================
Says Rufus: "A few issues ago I mentioned that excellent FlightSim publication, MICRO AVIATOR, and this raised a number of questions from readers which I shall attempt to answer".
"First, let me explain that this journal is distributed in full colour online in the form of a PDF so that you can download it directly into your computer and print it as an hard copy if you wish. It contains a selection of great articles for anyone interested in flight in general, and particularly (of course) in the growing field of flight simulation".

"It also covers latest software available - including test reports - in that field, and sometimes offers a few enticing extras along the way. Additionally, there's lots of information from real live pilots. It is definitely not a publication devoted to computer games, but is a truly serious effort to stimulate interest in aviation by giving computer owners a taste of the, almost, real thing".

"And now for the good news: you can download a FREE back issue simply by going to their website. The site contains lots of other useful details on this truly fascinating computer-driven hobby. But, flight simulation can, and often is, more than an hobby because it serves as a training ground for would-be pilots; indeed, Microsoft Flight Simulator programme offers you a complete flying course - on screen".

"However, the proof of the pudding is in the eating etc., so why not log on to:

http://www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk/

and download an issue for yourself".

Just to change the subject, Fred Jarvis, presently working overseas from his home in the UK, has emailed me to ask if I have had any experience of a bit of software known as VOX-ATC? Well I have mentioned this is the past, so I will not go over the details here, except to say that Fred's email has arrived at a propitious moment because I am currently testing the latest version of this FlightSim enhancement and will be reporting back to you shortly on its pro's and con's".

"And that's it for this week.
Yours
Rufus
Rufus Stone
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
p.s. Don't forget to take a look at my website at:
http://www.gaming-in-3d.com
where you can find information about my 3D TOOLKIT
p.s. to p.s You can also find me at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk
if you're stuck!
=========================================
=============================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
==============================
A CHESTNUT. This usually means a tired old joke, repeated so often it is known to most people, a 'chestnut' came into popular usage through an early nineteenth-century melodrama 'The Broken Sword'. One of the characters in this constantly repeats the same jokes, with only minor variations. During the play he is telling another character, Pablo, a joke about a cork tree when Pablo interrupts him to say the tree was a chestnut. To emphasize the point he says he's been told the joke twenty-seven times and by now he's stare the tree is a chestnut.
=======================================
The Matius ASTRONOMICAL ADVISORY CLINIC
=======================================
"REMEMBER: You gets what 'yer pays for"
=======================================
Says Matius: "That sub-heading above might almost be an axiom that can be applied to the purchase of many products and is actually extremely important when it comes to buying your first telescope, and continues to apply even when you arrive at the advanced stage and are about to upgrade".

"For the simple truth of the matter is that, as with most optically based equipment, (and after a certain price point is reached) twice the price will only give you around a 10% improvement in quality. However, this should not deter you from considering the better, rather than the cheapest, models to buy. When it comes to optical instruments 'cheap is dear' in the long run. No way can you expect a manufacturer selling a telescope at around GBP 150 (about $299.00 US) to fit an eyepiece costing in the region of GBP 60 to GBP 90 ($115 to 187 US roughly). Remember, however, good the maker of your telescope is, they are still in business to make a living and enough profit to keep going. So with cheaper scopes they fit eyepieces that probably they buy for around GBP 10 ($ 19) so you cannot expect good results".

"Then again, much also depends on your own personal commitment to the hobby of astronomy: are you, for example, just a casual observer, do you have children or grandchildren that you'd like to point towards the stars, or are you an avid observer? All these factors need to be taken into account when considering the type and, if you will excuse the pun, scope of the instrument that you intend buying".

"Now add to this the thorny question of whether you plump for a refractor, a reflector and Maksutov-Cassegrain configuration***. And all that is without even thinking about actual cash outlay".

"It is for this reason that it is wise to visit a dealer who knows what he is talking about and can give you sound advice. But don't expect this free advice if you're just going to use them as a sounding board and then try and find the same product cheaper on the net or elsewhere; remember, to stay in business they also have to make a profit. And this latter point is coupled with that thorny subject of 'after-sales-service' i.e. who do you talk to when you get into trouble with your equipment?"

"Of course, I am always willing to answer your eMails via our Tony but I feel that you still need to go into a proper astronomy enterprise (not Costco's or Makro - as much as I love them) when you wish to get a nice, workable, instrument. For me, the easiest and most reliable establishment in London is The Widescreen Centre (Tony's old firm) and you can email Dr. Simon Bennett at:
mailto:simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk Please allow him plenty of time to answer!. Or you can phone him on 020 7935 2580, or simply pop along to Baker Street and see him in person at 47 Dorset Street".

Yours, as usual
MATIUS
Like our Sophie, Matius is working full time and so can only be contacted via the editor: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. REMINDER to look out for the celebrations next year of the 400th anniversary of Galileo; it has also been designated the 'Year of Astronomy'.
p.p.s The Pocket Cylindrical Sundial I mentioned recently is now available at the following website:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk
... which is a truly fascinating site called 'The Secret Cypher'. Why? That's the question they are asking (and offering a prize for the best answer). Take a look for yourself.
=======
THINKS
Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint - Mark Twain
================================
READERS WRITE
================================
Rachel Honeg writes from Sweden:
"Hello Tony,
Thanks for another good issue of AV CONCEPTS. Can you tell me where you get all those funny, and sometimes serious, quotes from?"
EDITORS NOTE: Hi Rachel, I keep my eyes open and pick them up from just about anywhere. I usually write them down in my diary and regurgitate them as necessary...simple as that!"
Tony
tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
=============================================
INCREASE OUR READERSHIP - and receive a FREE gift!
=============================================
Sign up a friend and we'll send you one of our 'AV CONCEPTS' free gifts. It's easily done. Just send the new email address, along with your own, to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Hurry! I'm running out of the FREE gifts you get when you sign someone on.
=============================================
============================================
UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
============================================
Sophie contacts list of useful web sites and online marketing areas. This should enable you to go directly to each and everyone listed below. Should you, however, find any problems we would appreciate it if you would let us know.
How To Write A Newsletter. If you have to run a club or firms newsletter, then this is the programme for you. Loads of ideas and pre-written copy:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm
How To Blog For Cash - need I say more?
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BLOGCASH
'Instant Movie Making' written by Ivan Watson, the doyen of movie making techniques, including script writing, and is still acknowledged as clearly 'the best' film making manual around….see for yourself:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON
Pure AdSense Gold helps you make sense of, and profit from, Google's AdSense:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51
101 Essential Business Hints and Tips brings you years of experience at the touch of a keypad:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BUSINESS
MAILING DE LUXE. Want to mail all the members of your club, school, business or any other organisation? Well, this is how we at 'AV CONCEPTS' do it; and you can do the same by using 'Mailing List DeLuxe' so take a look at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Four.htm
========================================================
Want to know more about any of the above; complete details are available by going to:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm
====================================
AND HERE'S THE SIX FREE MINI-COURSES
====================================
...download them and make life a little more interesting.
-----------------------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES with RUFUS STONE and his introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
--------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON
-------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS with the 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm
===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
Now with 6989 readers.
=============================
USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY
=============================
For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:
eDIMENSIONAL offers some great 3D stuff at:
http://www.edimensional.com
BEST FOR REVIEWWS
Looking for that essential review? Meet Doug Harman at the new technology and buyers guide web site.:
http:// www.Best4Reviews.com.

THE SECRET CYPHER contains a wealth of information on many of the subjects touched on in AV CONCEPTS and you can make purchases direct from its pages a!:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk
IN THE PINK
With reference to Sophie's recent mention of the 'Shapps & Coutts' website. The actual site can be reached by going to is fascinating and its truly amazing what you will find there; maybe the ideal present for someone special.
IN THE PINK offers you inspiration for the home:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com
MICRO AVIATOR - the magazine of the flight simulation:
www.flightsimgrpuk.free-online.co.uk
Looking for the best reviews? Take a look for yourself?
http://www.best4reviews.com
===========================
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------

AV CONCEPTS issue 59 Dated 8th April 2008

2008-04-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

AV CONCEPTS issue 59 Dated 8th April 2008

ASTRONOMY, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK, 'CINEMASCOPE', ONLINE MARKETING, VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION, and lots more!
========
FEEDBACK - a note from your editor.
========
Writes Tony: "This week we have offerings from our usual writers (where do they find all this information?) and I am introducing a new item right at the end of this newsletter which is my list of tried and tested recommended links. This will be added to from time to time and I would like to hear your own suggestions with any links that you personally like. Just email me the URL's and I will follow it up".
But on to this weeks edition...
===================================
this week's issue features
===================================
* FEEDBACK
* "WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS....."
* THINKS
* ...AND NOW 'THINK PINK!' - Introducing a new firm
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* ASTRONOMY FOR THE YOUG - MATIUS asks: "What shall I tell my grandson?"
* THINKS
* READERS WRITE: "Long Live 16mm!"
* THINKS!
* YOU CAN HELP INCREASE OUR READERSHIP
* UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
* SIX FREE MINI-COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND.
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS.
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES.
* USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY.
* HOW TO CONTACT US.
===============================================
========================
"WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS....."
========================
Says Tony: "Anyone who has ever worked in a selling situation will know that well known business axiom summed up in the sentence: 'when all else fails, read the instructions'. It's a curious fact of shopkeepers lives that customers, inherently, insist on NOT READING instructions".

"But, to my horror, I have recently discovered - or should I say 'realised'? - that I'm personally no better than the rest!"

"One of the problems is, of course, such things as multi-language instructions where every line is repeated up to four or five times in English, French Italian, German, or even Swahili. Now, don't get me wrong, I've nothing against any of these languages (having struggled with French for many years) but it has to be admitted that when one already has an antagonism towards reading instructions this does not help".

"A recent example of this was a Casio Digital Camera that I purchased, in a fit of enthusiasm, a few weeks ago. I really needed to read and find out how the thing worked; which menus did what, which buttons did I have to press, apart from the shutter release? Not only was/is the User Manual almost impossible to read but was also printed in a miniscule typeface which, in turn, was bound into a small booklet that refuses to stay open".

"True, the camera was supplied with a CD which gave the whole manual in one language, but the problem is that unless you print it out completely and carry the printout with you, you're no better off".

"With my previous digital camera I had to resort to a Test Report that was printed in the weekly magazine 'Amateur Photographer' in order to find out how it really worked".

"So, I'd like to hear from readers with both their experiences and opinions: am I alone in having 'instruction problems' or is this a universal complaint? Give me your views at the usual email address:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
See you next issue".
Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor:'A-V CONCEPTS'
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
=========================
THINKS
No man limps because another is hurt - Danish Proverb
-------------------------------------------
====================================
...AND NOW 'THINK PINK!'
------------------------------------
A New Company That Is 'In the pink!'
====================================
Sophie says: "Sometimes our Tony is a little shy (well, not very often, of course) when it comes to things that are personal to him; and nothing could be more personal than his wife Beryl. This is a pity because his wife - who retired from The Widescreen Centre 18 months ago when they sold the business - could not sit still doing nothing, and has now formed a brand new business with her daughter Marla, and he has left it to me to sing their praises!".
"So what? I hear you say. But before you dismiss it, let me tell you that Tony's daughter is a multitalented interior designer who has an eye for the better things in life, plus some of which are more fascinating. The latter is epitomised by mother and daughters new website which has a page labelled 'GO PINK!'".

"Naturally, everything for home and travel on this page is in the colour pink; but some of some of the items are quite surprising. Take, for example the Pink Mouse (no I haven't been drinking) that goes together with the Pink Computer Keyboard - a great idea for your computer literate wife or daughter".

"Then there's the Pink iPOD Kit containing every accessory that you will ever need for your MP3 / MP4 player! So you can listen to your music in style with these pink accessories. Absolutely ideal for travel! The kit includes:

Funky Brandy Carry Case * USB 6v DC Power Input Cable * Speaker Dock * Pink Headphones * MP3 / MP4 In Car Sound System Connector
Audiovisual Connection Cable".

"And they're all 'in the pink!'"

"So, you will be asking, what is this firm called? Well what else than SHAPPS & COUTTS LIMITED (Coutts is Tony's daughter's married name) and you, too, can go pink at:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/cgi-bin/index.pl?FROM=CATEGORY_PAGE&ACTION=PRODUCT&CATEGORY_ID=9&PRODUCT_ID=65

Now I, personally, don't think Tony had anything to be shy about, but I'll leave the decision to you".

See you next time around
Sophie
p.s. The actual site can be reached by going to:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com/

which is a lot simpler than going directly to the actual pink page; you'll also find some other intriguing items that help making a house a lived in home.
=========================================
=============================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
==============================
THE CLINK! To be thrown 'in the clink' today is to be sent to any prison. However, in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries the clink was a specific prison, actually situated in Clink Street in the London Borough of Southwark on the South Side of the Thames. This was in use until 1780 when it was destroyed by rioters. The actual ruins are still there and, interestingly, it formed part of the Jubilee Walk that was laid down in London for Queen Elizabeth's Silver Jubilee. Bronze-coloured markers for this walk are actually still in place in the pavements around the city.
=============================================
ASTRONOMY FOR THE YOUNG
=============================================
MATIUS says: "WHAT SHALL I TELL MY GRANDSON?"
=============================================
Writes Matius: "Let me set the scene. It's a slow day in a shop (maybe such as The Widescreen Centre) when in wanders an elderly gentleman accompanied by a small boy of about, say, 8 or 9 years old. The youngster eye's are a-popping as he looks, totally mesmerised, by the range of telescopes that they have on display. His grandfather - for that is he - turns to the shop assistant and says something like: 'I know nothing about telescopes or astronomy, but would like to further the interest of young Fred (Johnny, or Bill), can you help me?' Simple enough, you might say, until you think carefully about it".

"Of course, everyone realises that some youngsters have a very short attention span. So if a parent, or grandparent, invests in an expensive telescope, you know full well that they will be miffed if it ends up in the loft within three weeks (never to be seen again until the house is emptied). Yet this is not, unfortunately, uncommon. It's at this point that a certain amount of intelligent guesswork based on experience has to be exercised. You see, if the shopkeeper foists a 'cheapie' telescope on such a customer it could well turn that young boy off astronomy for life - and I can tell you that - regrettably - this does happen with some of the so-called bargains you to be seen in large discount emporiums".

"However, a good retailer will avoid this occurring by only stocking products of known quality, and offering them at a fair price. They then need to be a bit of a psychologist and use their expert judgement, mostly based on that previous experience (not to mention 'instinct' when looking at the youngster concerned). If they are any good at their job, they can normally sum up the type of youngster they are dealing with and offer sensible advice to solve most problems. So it is in this area that they need to have a few good manufacturers to fall back on".

"Beginners' telescopes that are available from a number of reputable manufacturers: I've tried some them out myself, and also badgered some of my non-astronomy friends to assist me just to make certain that they don't disappoint Most of them found ranges like the Konus and Skywatcher a doddle to use".

"Start them young with a quality product, and you've created astronomers for life! Buy a 'cheapie' and you might well ruin an ambitious young man's dream".
"I am always happy to advise, but due to my daytime job I do not publish my email address, but you can contact me through our Tony and he will pass on any messages. I promise you a personal reply wherever possible".
Yours, as usual
MATIUS
C/O
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

You might also find it useful to buy directly on the net by going to:
http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk
or ring Simon on 020 7935 2580 with your questions and orders".

p.p.s The Pocket Cylindrical Sundial I mentioned last week is now available at the following website:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/

... which is a truly fascinating site called 'The Secret Cypher'. Why? That's the question they are asking (and offering a prize for the best answer). Take a look for yourself.
========================
THINKS
Bad is never good until worse happens - Danish proverb
================================
--------------------------------
READERS WRITE: "Long Live 16mm!"
================================
Reader Len Lambley writes:

"Hello Tony,
"Here's just a few thoughts for your column which might raise some interest:"
"I Have used film on 35 / 16 / 9.5 / std 8 / Super-8 and also video tape on Philips cassettes / reel to reel Ampex one inch / VHS / U-Matic. Still prefer good old 16mm and also have 'lotsa' standard 8 on 400 ft reels. Unfortunately, my Noris Norimat dual gauge projector is kaput at the moment but also use a Noris 400 Super 8 and have two Siemens 2000s including one which records on 16mm mag stripe".

"Was left two 9.5 machines with film some time ago. Still have your Hypergonar 8 and a Kowa 'Scope lens. Other museum pieces include an Ensign 16mm and a big Linhof and a 35mm Leitz slide projector. Result is my spare room is full of film gear as well as my prints and negatives in 5x4 , 120, 35mm and 'trannies'. Room is a mess and am trying to sort it all out at present. Also seem to have acquired some cement splicers and other odds and ends".
"I remember the Baird TV projector which we had in an industrial hostel lounge in Baldock. Quite good for 405 lines and have seen the Swiss B&W TV projector demonstrated on the screen at the Odeon Leicester Square many years ago. Rank produced a self-contained video projector unit which someone had tried to use in a classroom using a standard white flat screen which I restored with the original concave silvered screen. Watched many good VHS off-air recordings on it in the audio visual office at Tottenham's Middlesex Polytechnic. Whatever happened to the 'spot-wobbled' 16mm prints from TV productions?"

"A normal room sized TV with the addition of a set top box and VHS recorder and DVD player is adequate. Long live 16mm!"
Len
EDITORS NOTE: thanks Len. Do any of my other readers sport such a collection? I would be interested to know about them. Usual email address:@
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
==========================================
THINKS!
Political correctness is the natural continuum from the party line. What we are seeing once again is a self-appointed group of vigilantes imposing their views on others. It is a heritage of communism, but they don't seem to see this - Doris Lessing

=============================================
YOU CAN HELP INCREASE OUR READERSHIP - and receive a FREE gift!
=============================================
Sign up a friend and we'll send you one of our 'AV CONCEPTS' free gifts. It's easily done. Just send the new email address, along with your own, to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Get you a FREE gift when you sign someone on.
=============================================
============================================
UPDATED - Sophie's Sophisticated Selection.
============================================
Sophie has updated her contacts list of useful web sites and online marketing areas. This should enable you to go directly to each and everyone listed below. Should you, however, find any problems we would appreciate it if you would let us know.

How To Write A Newsletter:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm

How To Blog For Cash
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BLOGCASH

Instant Movie Making
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON

How To Start A Forum
Is your personal guide to creating a Forum for discussion. It's an handy way to keep in contact with group and society members:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=50

Pure AdSense Gold
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

101 Essential Business Hints and Tips
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm#BUSINESS
---------------------------------------
Mailing List DeLuxe. Want to mail all the members of your club, school, business or any other organisation? Well, this is how we at 'AV CONCEPTS' do it; and you can do the same by using 'Mailing List DeLuxe' so take a look at:

http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Four.htm
========================================================
Want to know more about any of the above; complete details are available by going to:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm
====================================
AND HERE'S THE SIX FREE MINI-COURSES
====================================
...download them and make life a little more interesting.
-----------------------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES with RUFUS STONE and his introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
--------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/Page_Three.htm#WATSON
-------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS with the 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk/PageTwo.htm
===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII (how's that for affectation? Why didn't I just write '2007'?).
BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
=============================
USEFUL LINKS TO MAKE YOUR DAY
=============================
For some of the best 3D virtual reality gaming equipment, we use and certainly recommend:
http://www.edimensional.com
The Secret Cypher is...well, hmm, secret!:
http://www.zen140382.zen.co.uk
In The Pink with:
http://www.shappsandcoutts.com
===========================
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------
==================================

AV CONCEPTS issue

2008-02-20T07:32:00.000-08:00

'AV CONCEPTS' - Here's issue number 52,
Tuesday 19th February 2008

VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, 'CINEMASCOPE', ONLINE MARKETING, AUDIOVISUAL, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK, ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, and much, much, more!
==========
FEEDBACK
==========
This week I have pleasure in welcoming back Jack, with his unique insight into reproduction antiques. I am sure that you will enjoy his piece in this issue and I hope to persuade him to write some more for us in the near future. Meanwhile on to...
---------------------------------------------------
...this week's issue which features
=============================
* FEEDBACK
* "IS THIS THE ANTIQUE ROAD SHOW?" asks Jack.
* THINKS!
* "HELP! I'VE LOST A PLANET!" Matius tells you where to find it.
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
* INCREASE OUR READERSHIP...and get a FREE GIFT?
* ARE MINI-COURSES WORTHWHILE? Sophie investigates.
* "WHAT A SWELL PARTY"
* AND FINALLY...
* SOPHIE'S SOPHISTICATED SELECTION - complete
* SIX FREE MINI-COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES
* HOW TO CONTACT US

==============================
================================
IS THIS THE ANTIQUE ROAD SHOW?
================================
"Well no, not quite, but getting there!" says Jack
=================================
There's nothing like a genuine antique to spark a dinner time conversation, but for most households owning the original article is usually out of the question. Unless you happen to be a avid collector, and relatively wealthy, it is probably something to which you can never aspire.

Yet owning such an item can bring great pleasure especially if you can display a little knowledge along the way. Now we've come across a company that offers you, what can only be termed as, 'genuine reproductions' - that is, so like the original that their mother couldn't hope to tell them apart.

Take, for example their Cylinder Sundial - which is sometimes called a shepherd's or pillar dial. Unlike a normal heavyweight sundial which is permanently fixed in your garden, this is a portable, altitude dial in with hour lines for different dates delineated around the surface of a cylinder, thus allowing it to stand or hang vertically. A horizontal gnomon projects radially from the top of the cylinder, and this is adjusted to the appropriate date around its circumference. The dial is held with the gnomon facing the sun so that the shadow falls vertically.

Clylidrcal Sundai's are what they term 'latititude dependant and this particular model - an exquisite copy of an early 16th century design - is set for Madrid at Latitude, 40.4 (see Matius shriver's column for additional information on latitiude).

This interesting reproduction comes in at an affordable price of around GBP 70.00 (roughly US $ 114.00) and will certainly give you something to talk about.

The Cylinder Sundial is available now from the following sources:
The Widescreen Centre at:
http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk
020 7935 2580
-----------------------------------------
Leonard Honey:
mailto:l.honey@virgin.net
SCIENCE REPLICAS, 22, Heathview, LONDON N2 OQA
Or you can phone him on 0208 883 8696 and place an order.

===========================================
THINKS
'We never forget you have a choice' was the slogan for British Caledonian, a great airline that was absorbed into British Airways - what a shame!
========================
"HELP! I'VE LOST A PLANET!"
-------------------------------------------
Matius SOLVES some Astronomical Problems
======================================
Writes Matius: "Finding your way around the heavens as a 'newbie' in the world of astronomy can be a daunting task. No, I'm not talking about the two most obvious heavenly bodies which everyone can see without the use of a telescope i.e. the Sun and the Moon".

"I am pretty certain that in 99 cases out of a hundred the moon will be your first target since it is easy to find. As is the Sun, of course, but the latter must be approached with SUPREME CARE. NEVER, BUT NEVER, LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN either with your naked eyes, or through a telescope or other optical instrument (such as binoculars) it's the surest way of permanently damaging your eyesight: only use correctly manufactured SOLAR FILTERS for this purpose".

"After you have found the moon - what next?"

"Point your telescope to anywhere in the sky and you will observe thousands, nay, milliions of tiny little dots, some brighter than others. How do you distinguish which is which, and what is what? Well the answer comes in the form of a simple card mounted device known as a Planisphere. Of course, even these can be confusing to newcomers to astronomy. Remember, you have to have one that is dedicated to your current latitude; for example, if you live in Northern Europe, Northern America or Canada you'll require one that states that it's intneded for latitude 52.5-degrees".

"Also remember that, as well as latitude, there are different Planisphere's for the northern and southern hemispheres".

" A Planisphere will show you where a specific object is in the sky at any hour, any day and any month of the year. It will allow you to approximate the position of the planets of the solar system; you'll be able to see if a specific one is within your viewing range on any particular night".

"After the moon, you will most likely head for Saturn which is one of the most beautiful of heavenly bodies. Everyone, but EVERYONE, is stunned when they get their first look at it. Then you will probably move on to Mars".

"See you next issue when I will explain a little more about actually using a Planisphere".

Matius
p.s. If you want unbiased advice, have a word with Dr. Simon Bennett on 020 7935 2580 or take a look at: http://www.telescopes-direct.com

================================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!
================================
CAUCUS. You may have noticed this word cropping up in the news over the last few months, but did you know that the word is actually an American Indian word for an 'ADVISOR?'.
================================
"ARE MINI-COURSES WORTHWHILE?"
================================
Sophie Investigates The 'Freebies'
---------------------------------------------------------
Writes Sophie: "From time to time you will have noticed that 'AV CONCEPTS' offers free 3-part mini-courses in our listings. I have spent some time over the last week taking a considered look at these to find out if they are really worthwhile".

"Firstly, of course, I fully appreciate (and I am sure that you will) that they are offerred as a 'taster' to the full version, and are intended to whet your appertite in order to encourage you to purchase that full versions. That almost goes without saying, but I wanted to see if they contained any useful 'stand-alone' advice. And, believe it or not, I discovered that they actually are useful on their own".

"Take, for example, Beryl Grossman's 3-Part Business Mini-Course. In part one she talks about her 'MY FIVE BUSINESS SECRETS' - or what they don't tell you when you want to start your own business. And her Secret #1 is about CREDIT CARDS....and their deadly secret! What she tells you there might well come as a surprise to you if you have never previously been involved in running your own business. . Then there's Secret #2: BEWARE 'WORD OF MOUTH' CONTRACTS! where she quotes the late Louis Goldwyn of Metro-Goldwyn- Mayor who once made the remark that: "A verbal contract is not worth the paper it's written on!" - and that's just a couple of them, there's lots more and all worth reading because they are based on a lifelong experience".

"The thing is that there are six available totally free of charge, and, after my trawl through them, I can vouch for the fact that they are most interesting and also supply some very useful information. They definately 'stand alone'. So why not take advantage of them?".

Yours
Sophie
p.s. The '101 Essential Business Tools' Mini Course is available at:
http://www.101BusinessTools.com

=============================================
INCREASE OUR READERSHIP - and get a FREE gift!
=============================================
The lifeblood of any publication is a continued stream of new readers. They bring with them fresh ideas which helping to maintain the interest of existing subscribers. AV CONCEPTS relies on a continual input from its audience out there to keep us all up-to-date with developments.

So, THIS WEEK, sign up a new subscriber and we'll send you on of our FREE GIFTS.

It's easily done. Just send the new email address, along with your own, to: mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Get you a FREE gift if you sign someone on.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
=======================================
"WHAT A SWELL PARTY" is the following
ASTRONOMY - ISLE OF WIGHT STAR PARTY
----------------------------------------------------------------------
THE DATE: 6th – 10th March 2008....THE SETTING: is a holiday centre, with breathtaking, almost 180 degree, southerly views across the Channel.....WHERE TO LOG ON: Please visit the website:
http://www.iowstarparty.org
for more details, or contact Stephen J Griffiths on:
info@iowstarparty.org
=======================================
.....AND FINALLY:
"We know why you fly. We're American Airlines" is the slogan of American Airlines. Have you ever flown Amercan Aiorlines? Not as bad as Iberia (the Spanish carrier) but nearly!
=============================================
WHERE TO FIND- Sophie's Sophisiticated Selelction.
=============================================
How To Write A Newsletter:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

How To Blog For Cash
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14

How To Promote A Product
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=22

Instant Movie Making http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42

How To Start A Forum
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=50

Pure AdSense Gold
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51
101 Essential Business Hints and Tips http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=53

==================================
AND HERE'S THE SIX FREE MINI- COURSES...download them and make life a little more interesting.

LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES with RUFUS STONE and his introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
--------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=4
-------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS with the 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=59

===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII (how's that for affectation? Why didn't I just write '2007'?).

BACK ISSUES OF AV CONCEPTS ARE AVAILABLE AT:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.
-------------------------------------------------------------
==================================

Tony Shapps on AV CONCEPTS

2008-01-17T01:28:00.000-08:00

Fellow enthusiasts,

Here's issue number 47, of 'AV CONCEPTS',
Tuesday 15th January 2008
AUDIOVISUAL, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK, ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, 'CINEMASCOPE', VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, and much, much, more!
==========
FEEDBACK
==========
Playing Havoc With My Mailing
==========================
I get some funny old problems when mailing out 'AV CONCEPTS'. And these can be exacerbated if I forget to turn off SKYPE! Last week's issue was one such occasion and it led to someone complaining about spam (and I don't blame them) and our server blocking my email for a day.

You see, the distribution of this newsletter is usually scheduled in advance...just in case I'm not around on a Tuesday to send it out in person...and we discovered that SKYPE plays havoc with this scheduling, giving the recipients (and me) all sorts of 'funnies' in the process. So, if last week you got more than one copy, or maybe a truncated version, you now know why. =============================
THIS WEEK'S issue features....
============================= * FEEDBACK...havoc with my mailing!
* WANT TO WRITE A NEWSLETTER - Sophie reveals all
* THINKS
* TrackIR - have you ever wondered what it does? Rufus tells you.
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* REFLECT ON THIS - The Shriver Astro Column
* THINKS
* FROM YOU....William F. Blake on Special Fx
* THINKS
* SUBSCRIPTION DRIVE are you a winner?
* AND FINALLY...
* SOPHIE'S SOPHISTICATED SELECTION - complete
* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES
* HOW TO CONTACT US
==============================
WANT TO WRITE A NEWSLETTER?
==============================
Sophie Tells You How to Make a Start
================================
Says Sophie: "If you've ever belonged to a club, a society, a charitable organisation of some sort, or a parent/teachers association, there always comes a time when someone suggests that they should have a regular newsletter to stay in touch with members. And should you have made the mistake of accepting the job, you then find that, perhaps, you didn't fully realise what you were letting yourself in for".

"To produce one issue is, of course, relatively easy. Even turning out the following edition may not be difficult....but what then? The fact is that, unless editorial abilities come within your day to day remit and you happen to be a journalist by profession, it can become both difficult and - worse still - a chore. So let's imagine that you could spend less than 20 minutes at your computer and turn out a newsletter that would simply stun your friends and colleagues with impact and quality; furthermore, supposing it actually smacked of professionalism and looked like it had a whole creative team working on it for months, but you - and only you - knew that it took you just 20 minutes or so to put it all together. And anytime you need to publish more editions or another newsletter...you would know that it was all there, available for you, just waiting to be used".
"Ask yourself this question: 'Is this kind of newsletter production really possible?' Well the truth of the matter is that it is. What's more, newsletters are an incredible way to promote any business, to further the aims of any club, school or voluntary organisation".

"And in my continuing researches into ways and means of promoting business, charities, clubs and the like, I think I've hit upon one of the simplest, easiest (and cheapest) ways to produce a regular newsletter with the minimum of hassle. Yes, it's my old friend Michael Green of the 'HowTo Corporation'. He offers a package that is easy to use, takes very little time, but allows you to produce a workmanlike publication on a regular basis that would be the envy of your fellow members and associates".

"But, as the adverts are wont to say: 'don't take my word for it' just login to his free 'How To Write A Newsletter Mini-Course' and find out about it for yourself'. Go to:How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=59 it will cost you nothing, and I'm sure you will enjoy finding out just how easy it is to produce such a publication on a regular basis - even at short notice (as often happens)".

"So there you have it for this week"Yours, as everSophie(EDITORS NOTE: Sophie is right, i've seen this toolkit and it offers hundreds of profesinally-written ready-to-use articles on all sorts of subjects).

=======
THINKS
A newspaper is a circulating library with high blood pressure - Arthur Baer
=================
WHAT DOES IT DO?
=================
Ever Wondered About TrackIR?
===========================
Writes Rufus: "In my 'Gaming In 3D' Toolkit I make specific mention of a product which goes under the trade name of 'TrackIR'. Because it is an interesting piece of equipment I should like to talk a little about it this week".

"Any of you who use one of the Microsoft Simulators - train, car or flight - or one of the many hundreds, nay thousands, of computer games programs will know that they often include a feature which they call 'VR' (virtual reality). This allows you to look around the inside of a plane cabin, around the inside of a castle etc., to see what is normally out of your computer view. This usually necessitates moveing a button or lever on your controller, or keyboard, to access the additional view. However, with TrackIR all of this is a thing of the past, because using this little technological marvel lets you simply move your head (as you would in real life) to scan a scene from side to side. Indeed, so sophisticated is it, that it even lets you look directly behind you!".

"In fact it is now true to say that an affordable head tracking is here! And the increased realism will help to enhance your visual experience. In fact it takes your flight simulator and action gaming experiences to a totally new level of realism and excitement ".

"I have had a TrackIR working on my computer for some months now and I can tell you that it gives a really stimulating (as well as simulating) feeling to any games program that contains the necessary software information. Of course, with advanced technology of this kind, it tends to get ahead of the programmers, so not all games have the facility to accomodate the great effect that TrackIR gives, but most games coming on line these days certainly do. Any that boast of having virtual reality built in, for example".

"They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this applies particularly to a demonstration of a product. TrackIR can be seen, in action by clicking on:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46tJ0vaF4xI
What's more you can also couple this to 3D and you real experience to the 'nth' degree!"
See you soon"Rufusp.s. Any questions, of if you require a copy of the various PDF's that I have available, just email me for your copies at:mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3Dyou can also access my Toolkit by going to:http://www.gaming-in-3D.com
=================================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!
NEST-EGG Today a 'nest-egg' is a sum of money safely put away as a reserve. When the term was first recorded early in the seventeenth century it described a sum of money set aside as an encouragement to save further money. This earlier meaning is an allusion to the practice of placing an egg, even an artificial egg in a hen's nest to encourage her to lay others.
================================
ASTRONOMY WITH MATIUS SHRIVER
================================
Reflect On These Telescopes................
================================
Says Matius: "The pace of scientific and manufacturing processes appears, these days, to be unstoppable. In fact even us amateurs use telescopes that might only have been affordable to a professional observatory just a few years back. Even if you have a short memory or have only been interested in astronomy for a short time, you will have realised just how much things have changed. What's more, even the smaller reflectors have enjoyed technical improvements that would not have been thought possible not so long ago. This shows in the fact that serious observers would not have given house room to anything smaller than, say, a 150 mm reflector".
"How things have changed".

"Of course, there are always going to be physical limits to how small you can make an astro-telescope and still achieve acceptable results. This is because the amount of image-forming light that a reflecting telescope can grab can be severely limited by both the tube diameter and the necessity for a secondary mirror (the one that sits in the tube and diverts the image out of the side for you to view). It is not simply possible to simply scale down the measurements from a large telescope, because the incoming light from the stars that eventually reaches your eye still be minute, and will result in a very dim image".

"However, interestingly, there are a few Russian-made reflectors as little as 62 mm which work surprisingly well, although you'll find that they are outclassed by a good 60 mm refractor. On the plus side they can often be hand-held and used in the manner of binoculars and will come somewhat cheaper than the former. I know that Elena at The Widescreen Centre sometimes has them, so it's worth asking".

"These days, however, there is such a plethora of telescopes available that a newcomer to the hobby is well advised to take advice before shelling out his or her hard earned cash. For example if you opt for, say, 90 or 100 mm aperture you'll find an enormous variety available on the market ranging from the very cheap (as sold by some of the larger supermarkets) to the truly excellent but, occasionally pricey, models. Pound for pound, or dollar for dollar you will still get a larger aperture reflector for your money than the equivalent sized refractor (see p.s.)".

"However, this is where professional advice is 100% essential. We have no vested interested in The Widescreen Centre, but we do know that Dr. Simon Bennett is dedicated to improving the lot of amateur astronomers, and will always give you a proper summery of what a 'scope can, or cannot, do. A visit to their premises in Baker Street is likely to save you money (and an heartache) in the long run".

Enjoy your observing!

Matius
p.s. Simply explained a REFLECTOR telescope is a tube that is open-ended at one end with a mirror fitted at the other. At the top end there is fitted in the light path a smaller mirror that turns the reflected image sideways into your eyepiece. The image is always upside down (it can be corrected, but this aborbs light, and anyway what exactly is 'upside down' in space?).

A REFRACTOR is like the telesdfope that Nelson used i.e. light comes in through the big end - fitted with a lens - and directly out at the other end where you have your eyepiece.
p.p.s See reflectors at:
http://www.telescopes-direct.com/

======================
THINKS
Astronomy is perhaps the science whose discoveries owe least to chance, in which human understanding appears in its whole magnitude, and through which man can best learn how small he is - Georg C. Lichtenberg 1742-1799
====================
FROM YOU....Special Fx!
====================
From reader William (Bill) Blake I have received a long and most interesting letter which I intend to serialise over the next few issues. i will leave Bill to tell his own fascinating story:

"Hi Tony,
I'm an Actor/Special Effects Artist/SPFX Makeup Artist here in California, and have been an 'Industry' PROFESSIONAL for 40 years now. One of my passions though, is working with Film of ALL kinds (mostly Pro 16mm, currently, and ESPECIALLY, Anamorphic Widescreen), as a Hobby and sometimes, 'side-job'/adjunct to my regular, 'Hollywood' avocation(s)".

"I have, in the past, ordered/used several of your products almost from your 'humble-beginnings', going all the way back to the early 1970's... I had obtained 'Middle-Man' info, originally, MOSTLY from the "American Widescreen Centre", in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, very close to "Berlin" in Southern New Jersey, which is across the river, and only about 17-miles from Philadelphia, where I used to live before moving out here".

"Unfortunately, I can no longer remember the name of the guy I used to communicate with, and who 'ran' the establishment there for many years, but I can tell you that he used to mention, 'brag' about the EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE, AND, basically, 'sing the praises' of MR. TONY SHAPPS continuously (EDITORS NOTE: blushes all round)".

"Anyway, he had ordered for me one of your "WIDESCREEN CENTRE - SUPER 80 MAGNUM"s, complete with all the Camera/Projector Aluminum Mounts, Adaptor-Rings, Support-Rods, Rod-Posts, Wingnuts, Screws, etc. I filmed in Super 8 -- with custom-blimped "Nikon 8X Super Zoom" (w/sync-pulse generator/Super 8 Sound Recorder), and "Pathe' DS-8 Electronic"/sync-pulse, Cameras, & others -- for YEARS, until the units & A-Lens were all stolen in a rather unfortunate, severe & extensive, theft/burglary incident in 1993......

...TO BE CONTINUED"

William (Bill) Blake

mailto:bill.blake@dslextreme.com

=====================================
THINKS
In Beverly Hills... they don't throw their garbage away. They make it into television shows - Woody Allen
==============================
"ALL ABOUT ANAMORPHICS" Pt. 7...partly the 'CinemaScope' story! is held over 'til the next issue.
================================================================
COMING SHORTLY - The Sedwick Report
====================================
AND FINALLY...We're offering any of you entry into a FREE DRAW with a small prize if you sign up a new subscriber to AV CONCEPTS: easily done. Just send the email address to mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
and your email will go into our electronic hat for our monthly draw.
Last month's December winner: Bryony Webber
===========================================
WHERE TO FIND Sophie's Sophisiticated Selelction
.===================================
How To Write A Newsletter:http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

Easy Ezine Toolkit http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=6

How To Presentationhttp://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=11

How To Blog For Cash http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14

How To PDF Creator http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=16

Create-A-Product-Seminar http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=18

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Corporate Internet Policy http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=47

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==================================
FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES...
...are a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.

LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES-
RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com-
-------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=4

-------------------------------
'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=59
-----------------------------------
How To Create Killer Copy - download
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=66
===================================--------------------------------------------------------------

If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
TonyTONY SHAPPSEditor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII (how's that for affectation? Why didn't I just write '2007'?)

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know?

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

AV CONCEPTS

2008-01-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

'AV CONCEPTS'
- Here's issue number 45, of 'AV CONCEPTS',
3rd January 2008

AUDIOVISUAL, MULTIPLE SCREEN WORK, ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, 'CINEMASCOPE', VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, and much, much, more!

==========
FEEDBACK

I hope you all had a great Christmas and New Years break and are now ready to receive some interesting information, thoughts, and even instruction. In the last year 'AV CONCEPTS' has gone from strength to strength thanks you to, my readers, who have taken the trouble to recommend new subscribers. See winner of last months prize draw in this issue. So can I say 'thank you, thank you, thank you' and pass on to....

---------------------------------------------------
...this week's issue which features
=============================
* FEEDBACK
* DOUBLE YOUR MONET - the french connexion!
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* RUFUS STONE'S GIANT CHRISTMAS QUIZ - answers and winners
* THINKS!
* ALL ABUT ANAMORPHIC'S Pt 5 - doing it yourself
* THINKS!
* UNDERSTANDING 3-D
* AND FINALLY - SUBSCRIPTION DRIVE are you a winner?
* SOPHIE'S SOPHISTICATED SELECTION - complete
* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS
* SEVEN FREE MINI-COURSES

======================
DOUBLE YOUR MONET!!!
======================
Panorama's par excellent
======================
Tony writes: "In the years when I was doing numerous presentations of widescreen techniques around the Camera and Cine Societies (now called Video or Imaging Societies or Clubs) I was dubbed with the monica, by the late Ivan Watson no less, of 'Mr. Widescreen'. And in those days I thought I knew all about those wider formats and their multifarious names - 'CinemaScope', 'SuperScope', 'Technirama and Super-Technirama', 'Magnascope' and what seemed like a million other 'scopes'. But, as the saying goes, one is never to old to learn".

"Over the Christmas period, which also coincided with my wife's birthday, we went on a short visit to Paris (just over three hours door-to-door from my home to Gard Du Nord via Eurostar) and took in some of the sights of that lovely city. However, I was in for a surprise. You see, as an ex art-school student I thought I knew all about the artist Monet; coupled to which I had seen inumerable audio-visual slide shows at A-V Competitions of this artists work, but never realised that here was truly a real 'Mr. Widescreen'".

"For there, in the Musee d L'Orangerie just off the Place de la Concorde, on the very edge of the famous Tuileries Gardens, is housed and beautifully presented eight superb paintings by this master in fantastic panoramic format. Curved marsterpieces stretching around four sides of two specially constructed oval-shaped rooms; eight paintings in all. And each one about 30ft in width by an average persons height!"

'Waterlilies', Monet's massive obsession, dominated the last 30 years of his life. In fact, Monet had been working on them since 1914 in a spacious studio at his Normandy home in Giverny. And he would continue painting these vast canvases until his death at 86. The following year, 1927, eight were finally installed in two specially designed oval-shaped rooms in the Orangerie. However, that's not the end of the story because the venue has been completely and recently restored and updated and is truly breathetaking: so much so that Beryl and I were on our way to the Louvre but never got there owing to the beauty of this museum. We intended to spend half-an-hour there, but ended up being there for around 3 hours".

"The museum/art gallery also offers, in the basement level, the Walter-Guillaume collection, a most wonderful selection of impressionist paintings....must be worth a fortune....which included numerous paintings by Picasso, Ma\tisse, Modgliani, Cezane and others of that productive period. Even if you are only slightly interested in art, this is a definite 'must' on any Parisian visit"

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor:'A-V CONCEPTS'
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

===============================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
===============================
'Hob-nob' has a sense of give and take, the easy sharing that is part of friendship. This meaning becomes clearer when we understand that 'bob-nob' is a variant of 'hab-nab', meaning (to have and not have. In the eighteenth century 'hob-nob' meant drinking together. Since then it has acquired a wider meaning akin to ashame and share alike, which is an apt description of the
close friendships in which we are happy to hob-nob with each other.

==================================
THE MATIUS SHRIVER ASTRO COLUMN
==================================
Matius is away at present and will resume his astronomy column next week.
==================================
THINKS
Everything is funny as long as it is happening to somebody else - Will Rogers

===============================
RUFUS STONE'S INCREDIBLE CHRISTMAS EXTRA QUIZ:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Says Rufus: "Thanks for all your entires to my Christmas Competition. First the answers, and then the winners :"

1. First performed in 1938, and commonly considered one of the saddest of all classical works, who composed Adagio for Strings (it was used in the 1986 film Platoon)? Samuel Barber

2. In computer lingo what does 'VR' usually stand for? Virtual Reality

3. What range of hills between Northumberland and the Scottish borders gave their name to a farm breed? Cheviot

4. Which company famously created the word 'CinemaScope' to describe their widescreen system? Twentieth Century Fox

5. On April 1st 1957 the normally serious BBC TV news programme Panorama convinced thousands of English viewers that what type of food grew on trees? Spaghetti

6. A spheksophobic fears which insects? Wasps

7. Henry the Navigator was a citizen of which country? Portugal

8. In which US state was the American Declaration of Independence signed on 4th July 1776? Pennsylvania (originally William Penn suggested the name of 'Sylvania' but King George told him to add his own name at the beginning!).

9. Who in 1990 became the first chancellor of a united Germany? Helmut Kohl

10. Which car manufacturer has a model called the Favorit? Skoda

11. Who was the wing commander who led the 'Dambusters' bomber raids in 1943? Guy Gibson

12. The Faroe Islands are an autonomous province of which country? Denmark

13. Fotheringhay Castle, birthplace of Richard III in 1452, and site of Mary Queen of Scots trial and execution in 1587, is in which English county? Northamptonshire

14. In 1844 Samuel Morse sent the first public telegraph message containing what short biblical quote (from the book of Numbers chapter 23, verse 23)? What hath God wrought?

15. What is the line called on a ship which is the limit to which it may be loaded? The Plimsoll line

"There are six copies of a Great Astronomical Calandar produced by the BBC SKY AT NIGHT, in conjunction with The Widescreen Centre, I had four correct answers from:

Jerry Stone (can I have your address to post you your calendar?); John Cave; Shelley Sirdar & Simon Stone (no relation of mine), who will receive their prizes shortly.

And finally, a very a belated HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU".

Refus
p.s. Meet me at http://www.gaming-in-3D.com
p.p.s. Or any questions, mail me at mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
============================================
THINKS
A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous - Ingrid Bergman 1915-1982,

==============================
"ALL ABOUT ANAMORPHICS" Pt. 5
==============================
...partly the 'CinemaScope' story!
============================
Continued from previous issue: ".......but there was something else, a major effect. Yes, the latter was in WIDESCREEN. It was that realization that set me off on a course that was to change my whole future - and the future of my family and finances along the way".

Tony goes on: "Up until that point I had been like thousands, nay millions, of other proud dad's taking rather unsteady movies of my young kids running about the park, playing on swings, you know, all the usual things, but then I started experimenting with widescreen".

"My first efforts, although I did not cotton on to it at the time, mimiced some of the professional practice that took place after the first introduction of 'CinemaScope' i.e. physically masking an ordinary frame across top and bottom to create a different aspect ratio (or screen shape). Using this system I could produce anything from 2:1 format right up to 2.87:1 - the latter being the aspect ratio of CINERAMA!"

"Of course, in a way this was cheating since I was not gaining any image but just producing 'a visual effect', but it got me thinking and searching for the solution. It was at this point that I discovered the ANAMORPHIC LENS. This was an idea that pre-dated the arrival of the cinema having been around since Victorian times, and earlier - I believe the first patent was taken out by Agfa around 1806 - but its application to movies was not recoginised until Professor Henri Chretien came on the scene".

"The 'modus operandi' of the anamorphic lens (hereinafter referred to as the 'A-lens') was that it had the ability to compress an image either horizontally or vertically, depending on the orientation of its optical axis. So, placed in front of a standard camera taking lens, it could be used to take in a wider, panoramic, view which depending on the compression factor built into the A-lens itself. This CP could easily be varied in manufacture and I intend to explain to you in the next part of this series how you can actually do this yourself; that is, MAKE YOUR OWN ANAMORPHIC LENS".

To be continued.

Tony
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
p.s.So, stayed tuned and look out for my secrets of making your own amamorphic.

============================
THINKS
I do not paint a portrait to look like the subject, rather does the person grow to look like his portrait - Salvador Dali 1904-1989

===============================
RUFUS STONE ‘Understanding 3-D’
===============================
Writes Rufus: "You may wonder what I have been doing over the past several weeks - apart from setting my bumper Christmas Quiz - well I've been engaged in a massive re-vamp of my web site bringing it up-to-date, so that those interested in adding the third dimension to their computer for such things as Microsoft Flight Simulator, or the 1000's of games that contain real 3-D information, can learn how to do this with even greater ease".

"My 'Gaming in 3D Toolkit' is now available again and you can find out all about it by going to:

http://www.gaming-in-3D.com

simple as that!"

"So why not treat yourself to one of the greatest visual effects available, increase the realism of your computer work with genuine, off-the-screen, images?"

See you soon
Rufus
p.s. I have a PDF available listing all the tested games that can be used with 3D just email me for your copy at:

mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D

====================================
COMING SHORTLY - The Sedwick Report
====================================

AND FINALLY...We're offering any of you entry into a FREE DRAW with a small prize if you sign up a new subscriber to AV CONCEPTS: easily done. Just send the email address to mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and your email will go into our electronic hat for our monthly draw.

Last month's winner: Jonathan Rogers

===========================================
WHERE TO FIND Sophie's Sophisiticated Selelction.
===========================================

How To Write A Newsletter:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1
Easy Ezine Toolkit
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=6
How To Presentation
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=11
How To Blog For Cash
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14

How To PDF Creator
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=16
Create-A-Product-Seminar
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=18
How To Promote A Product
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=22

Create and SELL Products ONLINE http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=30
Ezine Editors List Membership
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=35
Easy-Download Protector
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=40

Instant Movie Making http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42
Corporate Email Policy
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=45
Corporate Internet Policy
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=47
How To Start A Forum
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=50

Pure AdSense Gold
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51
101 Essential Business Hints and Tips http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=53

==================================
FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES...are a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.

LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES
----------------------------------
RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
--------------------------------
LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=4
-------------------------------
'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
--------------------------------------
Create and SELL Products ONLINE mini-course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=69
----------------------------------
Easy Ezine Toolkit - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=56
---------------------------------
How To Write A Newsletter - Mini-Course http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=59
-----------------------------------
How To Create Killer Copy - download http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=66

===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please feel free to contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII (how's that for affectation? Why didn't I just write '2007'?)
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

AM I ADDRESSING YOU CORRECTLY?
If you name is not Tony, but rather Tanya, or Ralph as opposed to Rosalie, can you kindly let me know? mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

AV CONCEPTS Issue 42

2007-12-16T04:06:00.000-08:00

'AV CONCEPTS' - Here's issue number 42
featuring, as always, 'CINEMASCOPE', VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, ONLINE MARKETING, ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, METAL DETECTORS.

We welcome your comments, your articles, and even your criticism. Readers contributions help to keep us on our toes, and moves the publication forward. Let's here from you:

Tony
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Meanwhile on to this week...
-----------------------------
This issue features
================
* ALL ABOUT ANAMORPHICS - partly the 'CinemaScope' story.
* THINKS!
* UNDERSTANDING 3-D Part 4.
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
* PROJECTION SCREENS - Moving it about.
* THINKS!
* BIG CHRISTMAS COMPETITION, the winners!
* THINKS!
* IT'S JUST THE BUSINESS.
* COMING SHORTLY
* AND FINALLY
* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND
* HOW TO CONTACT AV CONCEPTS

============================
"ALL ABOUT ANAMORPHIC S"
============================
...partly the 'CinemaScope' story!
============================
Once upon a time....yes my story goes back a long way to my first visit to Paris about 40 years ago, when I had the pleasure of meeting one M. Bonnerot. Fact is, you may never have heard of M. Bonnerot, but he was the main collaborator with Professor Henri Chretien, in developing the so-called, HYPERGONAR. And, if you are not aware, is the original name of the lens that later became known - via 20th Century Fox - as the 'CinemaScope' lens.

M. Bonnerot showed me a range of early lenses that they had converted, in one way or another, for use with this widescreen format....all with mountings for professional Mitchell movie cameras (and there was no reflex image viewing in those days, they used a system known as 'rack-over' where you would focus through the lens that was switched in front of a separate finder, and then move the focused lens back over the film gate - hence its description). For his design and perfection of the 'CinemaScope' lens Professor Chretien received an Academy Award. Unfortunateoy, by the time we came on the scene - we being The Widescreen Centre - Chretien had died, so we never got to meet him in person, but it did result in that visit to Bonnerot.

However, we did get to see the factory where the Hypergonar was being made (still under its French name) and were also introduced to the factory manager whose name was Andre. He showed us around and this was the point at which I discovered how to manufacture this type of 'squeeze'/'de-squeeze' lens....about which i will be talking later on. By the time of my second visit to Paris, Andre had retired and the new manager, John Rivet, was introduced to us and, latterly became (and still is, although long retired) a friend of our family. It was at this point that John produced a key - about the size you might have imagined would open a dungeon - and let us into the basement of the factory.

And it was here that we found a goldmine! Because sitting in a large cardboard box was enough bits and pieces to make up around 50 'CinemaScope' lenses for use on 8mm cameras.

To be continued.

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor:'A-V CONCEPTS'
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

p.s. Look out for my secrets of making your own amamorphic.

============================
THINKS
When a man says that he approves something in principal, it means he hasn't the slightest intention of putting it in practice - Otto Von Bismarck 1815-1898,

===============================
RUFUS STONE ‘Understanding 3-D’
===============================
Part Four - continued
===============================
But while polarization may be useful for the cinema, it is not a practical solution that will provide the best results on your computer. Fortunately, it would seem that many software games developers realized this at an early stage and, as a consequence, built into their software accessible stereo games information almost right from the start. This means that there are well over ONE THOUSAND computer games available that contain this vital information.

By taking advantage of this in-built facility you can achieve the almost impossible - true, on-screen, 3-D.

In fact I can honestly say that you won’t believe your eyes. You’ll experience the most realistic, intense and downright stunning gaming graphics ever. And you will find out just how this true 3D not only looks incredible, but improves the quality of your gameplay. And if you’re into Flight Simulation then this will definitely be a case of ‘seeing is believing’.

In order to take advantage of this stereo information - which is almost certainly available in most of the games programs you already own (and you can check this out by getting the pdf of my list of over 1000 tested games by emailing me at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com) - you also need a few pieces of, what are now, relatively inexpensive ‘add-ons’. It’s here that it is somewhat satisfying to know that these items originally cost literally thousands of dollars when first introduced but, in line with rapid computer development elsewhere, the prices have tumbled to what is now an eminently affordable levels.

THE GLASSES

The first pieces of equipment you will need are ‘shutter glasses’. These consist of a special pair of glasses where, instead of optical elements, you look through two small transparent LCD (liquid crystal) screens. Each of these LCD’s can be, and are, activated by an incoming signal from your PC or games console which, alternatively, switches each left and right element on and off in rapid synchronization with the images being generated on your monitor screen. Of course, it does this so quickly that you don’t even notice it, and therefore feel that you are seeing a constant viewing system (in the cinema this is known as ‘persistence of vision’). Hence the term SHUTTER GLASSES where each lens blanks out alternatively like a closing shutter.

The second gizmo is what we all fondly term ‘a dongle’ (mainly because nobody has ever agreed a name for it!). This is a small black box which interfaces BETWEEN the outgoing, emerging, video signal from your computer, and your monitor screen. This box of tricks is at the heart of the system. There’s usually a long lead from the Shutter Glasses that plugs into this with a mini jack socket at the back of the ‘dongle’; other sockets being available for your monitor (above), and additional one for an infrared sender if you decide to use WireLESS shutter glasses.

And lastly, there’s some very important and specialized driver software that you install within your computer that controls the whole affair. This software is an essential part of the whole setup and cannot be ignored – which is why, in my book ‘GAMING IN 3D’ (part of my 3D ToolKit) I do spend a fair bit of time explaining how to set it up. I do this because I feel it is important to get it right the first time. For example, software that will produce stereo on a CRT screen (those older screens using a cathode tube) will not necessarily work with TFT (LCD) screens.

See you in Part IV

Rufus
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
p.s Meanwhile I have this BARGAIN OFFER; I've got a 'mint' set of eDimensional wireless Shutter Glasses (for computer 3D) available. I only used these once for demonstration. They normally sell for around GBP 74, but they're yours for the nearest offer to GBP 65.00 (first offer secures): mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

===============================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
===============================
'DAB-HAND: If someone is a 'dab-hand' at something (an expert in other words), is also described as being 'adept', then origins of 'dab-hand' become clearer. That's because the Latin word 'adeptus' was used to describe someone who had reached a given standard in a craft or other profession. Dab is merely a shortened form of the Latin word, and 'dab-hand' recalls the manual origins of the phrase.

============================
PROJECTION SCREENS
============================
PART FOUR - MOVING IT ABOUT
============================
When I first started to take an interest in movies (or 'cine' as we called it in those days), and particularly when I turned to using widescreen with an 8mm camera, I soon discovered the major problem in going out to do shows at Movie Clubs and the like was the lack of portability in the screen that I wanted to use.

Most clubs in those days - and this may well still apply - used 'tiddly' little screens of a maximum 60-inches (1.5m) wide which meant that to show widescreen I needed to carry my own screen wherever I went. The first 8ft wide 'scope screen that I had made only rolled on its length. With a vehicle that could not accommodate this on the inside I resorted to stringing it down one side of the car by attaching it to the passenger side door handles (in those days this was possible). However, this was somewhat inconvenient if I was also taking friends along to one of my demonstratons. Also there was the problem of suspending this screen at each venue; I did this with the help of two expanding telescopic polls situated between the floor and the ceiling! However, this was a far from satisfactory solution especially ifit was raining on the day of the demonstration....and at the time I was travelling around the country so could be driving up to 200 miles in wet weather.

The answer came, initially, in a British-manufactured screen that sat inside the normal length canister of a five or six foot wide screen, but contained sufficient material to 'pull out sideways' to make a full 'CinemaScope'-format screen. this necessitated having a second tripod to attach the pulled out end and separating bars along the top and bottom to keep the screen pulled out and also to anchor it top and bottom to avoid it folding over in the middle.

But even this solution still required enough room in your vehicle for at least a five or six foot long canister plus the additional length of the tripod. So it was a moment of supreme revelation when I discovered the Stumpfl Frame Screen which could be anything up to 21-foot wide yet still folded into a small area that fitted comfortably into the boot or the back seat of whatevr transport I was driving at the time. And it was at this time that I expanded my horizons by getting them to make me a 16ft wide screen!

To be continued...

SEE YOU IN PART FIVE

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor:'A-V CONCEPTS'
Now with over 7000 readers weekly.
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

p.s. Stumpfl frame screens are available from The Widescreen Centre and you can find them at:
http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk/Catalogue/Front_Projection_Screens.html

p.p.s. I have a pdf available of a good DLP projector, which is ideally suited for front projected Home Cinema use....and also 3D. Just eMail me for a copy.
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

===========================
THINKS!
I was born at the age of twelve on a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer lot - Judy Garland 1922-1969
=================================
BUMPER CHRISTMAS COMPETITION...
=================================
...RESULTS...and the winners are....
=================================
First, here are the answers....condensed....you'll just have to remember the questions!

1. Kazakhstan 2. Samuel Beckett 3. Princess Beatrice 4. http://www.the2020challenge.com/ 5. Epiglottis 6. John Denver 7. Dr. Martin Luther King 8. 1000 9. Peking 10. Uruguay

And the winners are: Malcolm Gibb, John Vines, Terry McDermott and Frederik Scrososer. I already have Malcolm and John's addresses, but both Terry and Frederik need to send me that information so that I can post off their prizes. Well done all of you; and many thanks to those of you who entered, may you all have a very Happy Christmas and a Great New Year.

Tony
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

====================================
THINKS!
I want to do a musical movie. Like Evita, but with good music - Elton John

===============================
IT'S JUST THE BUSINESS.
Find out how to make your business more profitable, avoid the pitfalls and the Red Tape and increased your turnover. How? Entrepreneur BERYL GROSSMAN offers you the perfect answer with her highly successful '101 essential BUSINESS TOOLS' Toolkit. Find out more by taking her 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and your business, by taking advantage of her 35 years experience in running her own company? Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com
====================================
COMING SHORTLY - The Sedwick Report
====================================
========================================
AND FINALLY...I'm offering any of you entry into a FREE DRAW with a small prize if you sign up a new subscriber to AV CONCEPTS: easily done. Just send the email address to mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

==========================================
WHERE TO FIND - some recommended reading.
=========================================
Visit :
WWW.BEST4REVIEWS.COM
http://www.Best4Reviews.com i's a great site for all the new technology. What's more it is also has an extremely useful Buyers Guide web site, so go to:
www.Best4Reviews.com

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING
Discover Hollywood's Hidden Secrets of Great Film Making With This Practical, No Nonsense, Common Sense, Guide To Truly 'Successful Movie Making'! Now Even A Complete Novice Can Make A Great Movie, And Experienced Film Makers Can Quickly And Easily Develop New Techniques! Ivan Watson tells all at:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=4

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY: recently updated. How To Write A Newsletter Toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

==================================
FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES...are a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.

LEARNING ABOUT 3D & STEREOSCOPIC TECHNIQUES
----------------------------------
RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE' at: mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

LEARNING ABOUT MOVIE MAKING with Ivan Watson 'FREE 3-PART FILM COURSE' at:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=4

'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE. Why not treat yourself, and Go to: to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com

===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
That’s it for this issue. Any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII (how's that for affectation? Why didn't I just write '2007'?)
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email to:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

2007-09-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

Issue number 31 of AV CONCEPTS'
Dated: Tuesday 25th September 2007

ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, METAL DETECTORS, and much, much more!

---------------------
This issue
============
* "MY NAME IS...."
* THINKS!
* MARCUS SHRIVER'S ASTRO FORUM
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* SOPHIE'S ONLINE MARKETING COLUMN
* THINKS!
* JACKS ONTO SOMETHING 'FISHY'.
* AND FINALLY
* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND

================
"MY NAME IS........"
================
And that's the point. What is your name? When I changed over to my current mailing system for this newsletter some weeks back, as with all new software, I experienced some 'funnies', a few 'clichés' (mentioned last week) and one problem which was entirely my fault and had nothing to do with the new software that I was using.

It's like this. The basis of my mailing list is held in a Microsoft Excel file. This file has two columns; the left one is your email address, and the seconds column usually has your forename where I have it. In transferring the listing from my old system I inadvertently deleted a couple of email addresses WITHOUT TAKING OUT THE CORRESPONDING NAMES in the adjacent column. I then compounded this by trying manually to correct my mistakes.

The upshot is that a few 'John's' ended up being called Julie, a couple of 'Tom's were addressed a 'Tina' and so on. Of course, these are the ones that I know about. Now the question is: "What is your name, and am I addressing you correctly?" Please let me know by sending any correction to me at:

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

And on to this issue where you see I give price of place to our Marcus who is answering a perennial question set by first-time users of astronomical telescopes. Then young Sophie has been out and about looking a ways of selling online (and who doesn't like to make a few extra 'bob' or two? And Jack tells you about some more of his fascinating astro antiques - 'genuine copies' as he likes to term them. Well I've seen some of them and can assure you that they are as near to the original (and all working) as they can possibly be, with the exception of the price which only comes out at a fraction of the article that is being copied.

Finally, I'd like to draw your attention, again, to the totally FREE 3-Part Mini Course offered by our contributors at the end of this newsletter; if you've not tried them, I am sure you'd enjoy reading them. Anyway, they cost you nothing and are quite informative.

Tony
Editor: 'AV CNCEPTS'
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. I usually post back issues on my blog page; and you can make your comments there, too. Go to:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

====================
THINKS!
What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet - William Shakespeare 1564-1616.

===============================
MARCUS SHRIVER'S ASTRO FORUM
===============================
Writes Marcus: "I am constantly asked by beginners: 'Can I use my telescope indoors just by pointing it through a clear window? '. The idea being that do not have wrap up and brave a cold winter's night (usually the best time of the year for viewing). And. let's face it, there have been many books which have actually shown people doing just this".

"Well it might make a nice illustration in a book, but I am sorry to disappoint you because out into the cold you'll have to go. There are a number of reasons for this and I'll try and sum them up as briefly as possible, although that may not be easy".

"Firstly, think about trhis for a moment, should you really be seting up a telescope so that you are looking through the glass of the window? Remember that the telescope you are using, assuming it is of a reasonable quality and not purchased 'off-the-shelf' in a supermarket, has quality optica glass lenses that are accurately ground to produce sharp and crisp images. A standard pane of glass used in the making of windows (other than Microsoft's version) is only produced to let light into room and is. in no way, optically pure. Without fail, it will always distort any image that you see through a telescope".

"Now you might think that you can get over this by letting in cold air and opening the window, but this will not help a great deal either. You may not be looking through the glass any more but the heat in the room will rush out of the open window causing dramatic air currents making the images shimmer just like a mirage on a hot day. And waiting for the room to cool down will not help either as heat will always rise up from the rooms or floor below".

"This last may seems rather strange given that some people actually build observatories onto the top of their homes. but these, too, will suffer the same problems of rising heat".

"So if you want to make the best of use of your telescope then wrap up warm and place it on the lawn where you can get the best view and where there is no rising heat. If you are lucky enough to live by the sea or a lake then you are lucky as viewing over these will give you the calmest viewing conditions. And there will probably not be any lights shining your way either to create that other bigbear of observng i.e. light pollution (but that's another story and I will come to it in the future".

Yours
Marcus
p.s. If you have any astronomical questions, pleaze feel free to write to me care of Tony's usual email add and he will pass then on to me for answering.

p.p.s. I know that Jack Grossman operates a world-wide mail order service for those interested in astronomy, so why not email him at jack@benkatiie-trading.co.uk or avoid Call Centre's by speaking to him directly on 0115 982 2674

================================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
================================
QUACK is sometimes applied unfairly to trained doctors by disgruntled patients, but the original 'quacks' were wandering charlatans who purported to sell 'wonder'drugs' with remarkable healing properties. The present-day 'quack' is an abreviated form of 'quacksalver' which is closely associated with a Dutch word 'kwakzalver. He was a rogue who boasted the efficacy of his cures ('salves') like a quacking duck!

====================================
SOPHIE'S ONLINE MARKETING COLUMN
====================================
Writes: "They say that one picture is worth a thousand words, but I don't agree that this is always true. For example, wouldn't it help if you could sit in on a major seminar on the subject of internet marketing and product creation - and sit in on it from the comfort of your own home? Well I've just come across an interesting web site that lets you do just that".

"How?"

"It offers a recording of a unique teleseminar which has just been made available. And you can be amongst those to benefit by listening in on Michael Green and other leading internet marketers giving up their secrets. What's more you will see as well as hear and that means you get the full impact of the message that they are getting over".

"It's a teleseminar about Internet Product Creation which boasted a line up of experts who had never-ever previously got together; *Michael Green*, *Anthony Blake*, *Willie Crawford*, *Jeff Smith* and *Gary Knuckles* himself all on a call and ready to take REAL-LIFE questions from a truly live and interactive audience. Not only that, the seminar ran to double the scheduled time, Gary was able to stick another tape in and carry on recording what was fast turning into one of THE internet marketing revelations of the year. The hour was up, but the seminar just kept on rolling...

...Now Here's The Upshot...

...you can actually own a copy of this unique one-off teleseminar featuring some of the world's leading internet marketers, for next to nothing! Without the expense of attending in person, you get the works. And that's why I liked it. I especially appreciated the delivery of the speakers all of whom made the subject come alive. Fact is, I can thoroughly recommend what was, to me, a goundbreaking experience".

"Everyone likes to make money, and these guys obviously know how to do it. So take a look at it by going to:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=18

That's my recommendation for this week".

"See you next time around"

Regards
Sophie

p.s.
========
THINKS
It takes someone with a vision of the possibilities to attain new levels of experience. Someone with the courage to live his dreams - Les Brown, American Speaker, Author, Trainer, Motivator Lecturer
==========================================
DON'T FORGET THE AUSTRALIAN WIDESCREEN COMPETITON...I can email you a pdf or you can contact AWA direct. And they also produce a regular newsletter letter called, appropriately, 'Scope' which you can subscribe to this at Box292, Mooroolbark, VICTORIA 3138, Australia.
Tony
p.s. Don't delay, the closing date for this years competition is only weeks away.
=======
THINKS!
I love the winning, I can take the losing, but most of all I Love to play - Boris Becker, former Wimbledon Tennis Champion.

============================
JACK'S ON TO SOMETHING 'FISHY'!
============================
Says Jack: "Fly fishing has been my hobby and passion for the past 15 years - and is one of the largest hobbies in the UK - and so it seemed natural for me to see what I could do now that I have some time to spare".

"With this in mind I decided to turn my passion into a business that would give me some satisfaction in my "retirement" and I trust that I can give you a top rate service and good quality products which are keenly priced. But more than that I am here to give you simple, easy-to-understand advice. If you have a question on any aspect of fishing (as opposed to the 'Phishing' you often find on the net), just contact me:

mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk

...and I will be delighted to answer you and give you the benefit of my own experiences in the field. And as a 'sweetener', and if you are a member of a fishing club, then I can also offer a discount to that club on flies.. again, drop me an email".

"To give you the keenest prices on flies, you can buy as either a single unit or in packs of 12 at a better rate. Should you wish to purchase in larger quantities then drop me an email and, I will see what can be done, it may benefit you to get together with your fishing friends and place a bulk order at more advantageous price".

"Your fishing lines are now open to me....so why make a rod for your own back when I can help you: I assure you there's no catch!"

Jack
"Not quite as 'antique' as Tony makes out!"
mailto:benkatie@zen.co.uk
p.s. Don't forget my world-wide mail order service, emaii me at the above address, or avoid Call Centre's by speaking to me on 0115 982 2674
========================================
AND FINALLY...
Caution is a most valuable asset in fishing, especially if you are the fish.
==========================================

WHERE TO FIND - some recommended reading.
=========================================
Visit :
www.Best4Reviews.com It's a great site for all the new technology. What's more it is also an extremely useful buyers guide web site.

VIDEO SEMINAR DE LUXE....learning to sell on line.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=18

HOW TO START A FORUM. Forum’s are a great way of communicating and widening the appeal or your interest. They help you to make friends on line and put you in touch with the rest of the world. If you have a specialised interest this can provide an ideal outlet and is also a great information gatherer. Why not start one now! http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=50

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson – all you need to know about making films from script to screen. Definitely the best instruction manual on the art of the movie that you'll ever find: written by a master. Makes a great present, too! http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY: recently updated. How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

==================================
FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES
(useful guides to the full kit). Here's a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.

RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally free 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE at:
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

BERYL GROSSMAN offers you her 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE gives you her extract from her hiughly successful '101 essential BUSINESS TOOLS'. Why not treat yourself and take advantage of her 35 years experience in running her own company by going to:
http://www.101BusinessTools.com
Additionally her full toolkit is also now available for Direct Download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache, save yourself an headache - get this toolkit first by going to:

http://www.101BusinessTools.com
===================================
--------------------------------------------------------------
That’s it for this issue. Any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email tto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

AV CONCEPTS issue's 29 & 30

2007-09-21T02:35:00.000-07:00

Here's issue number 30 of AV CONCEPTS' Dated:
Tuesday 18th September 2007
ASTRONOMY, SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, METAL DETECTORS, and much, much more!
---------------------
This issue
============
* THE CLICHE ISSUE* THINKS
* MARCUS SHRIVER HEADS FOR THE MOON
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT
* RUFUS ON NEW TECHNOLOGY
* THINKS
* AUSTRALIAN WIDESCREEN ASSOCIATION LIVES
* THINKS
* JACKS ANTIQUES...AND OTHERS
* AND FINALLY* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* WHERE TO FIND
* Plus SPECIAL REPEAT OF ISSUE 29 FOR THOSE WHO MISSED IT.
=================
THE CLICHE ISSUE
=================
Seems I'm fated to have computer problems of one sort or another. During the sending out of last week's AVCONCEPTS the power supply of the computer blew. Apart from cutting me off from the rest of the world, it played havoc with my mailing list; hence the interim mailing that I sent out at the end of last week....thanks to all of you who replied, this was greatly appreciated.

From the looks of it, and the number of replies, it would seem that only half of you ever saw Issue number 29, so I've decided to append it to the end of this issue 30....that way I'll be certain that everyone has seen it. I apologise on behalf of my computer and hope that this issue reaches you as it should.

This week there's an interesting review of Natural Points latest innovation of the TrackClip PRO, and our Rufus tells you all about that: while Marcus - our astronimcal man - weighs in with some thoughts on viewing the moon. And finally, Jack's Antiques glides in with a winner.
TonyEditor: 'AV CNCEPTS'
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk">mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. a CLICHE is a regular excuse or saying ("The cheque's in the post!" being one of the most famous), but this time it's true and cost me a few pounds to have it fixed.
===================
THINKS!I suppose some editors are failed writers; but so are most writers - T. S. Eliot 1888-1965
==================================
MARCUS SHRIVER HEADS FOR THE MOON!
==================================
Writes Marcus: "If you've been given, or have bought (with your own hard cash), an astronimcal telescope I can almost guarantee that when you take your first look at the Moon you will probably wait until its at its maximum viewable circumference i.e. when it is full. But, in fact, the best times to look are during what are known as the moons crescent phases".

"You may well have heard of the 'Terminator', and in this case it has nothing to do with a certain goveror of California, but is the name that astronomers give to the shadow of light, the line marking the boundary between the moon-day and night-time. Where this crosses the Moon it produces the different phases that we can observe with the naked eye from the ground i.e quarter moon, half-moon. etc. This so-called 'Terminator' is created by the sunlight striking the Moon at a very oblique angle thus producing the long shadows that bring out the Moon's features in relief. As it moves across the Moon the visible phases change. It actually moves during the night, so if you watch over a period you will see the shadows lengthen or shorten depending where you are looking. Each night you'll see a different part of Moon which will delignated by the 'Terminator'. This means that you will always have something different to see".

"You may think that the craters will just be circular indentations on the surface, but the oblique lighting will bring out other details such as central crater peaks where the moon's surface rebounded during the impact. Also some craters have impacted over others and in some places it looks as though the object that hit the moon bounced along thus creating a series of craters. These can be seen where the moon's surface has fractured, similar to that which happens on earth during an earthquake. Other earthlike features are the mountains, and it is interesting to compare these very rough areas of the moon with the smoother mare or seas. These are where volcanic activity has leaked lava on to moon's space and it has spread over large areas. All in all the moon has a never ending amount to show".

"You need to take some time to see it all. That's why many people never tire of watching the moon, and spend their whole observation time just specialising on the moon. So the next time it's a clear night and the moon is out, take a trip to the moon".

YoursMarcus
p.s. I know that Jack Grossman operates a world-wide mail order service for those interested in astronomy, so why not email him at

mailto:jack@benkatiie-trading.co.uk
or avoid Call Centre's by speaking to him directly on 0115 982 2674
================================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
================================
KUDOS is a straightforward example of one language borrowing a word directly from another language. In Greek 'kudos' means 'renown' and the word shares the same meaning when it is used in English.
===========================
RUFUS ON NEW TECHNOLOGY
===========================
Writes Rufus: "Progress in technology is the cornerstone of experiments in virtual reality, and the USA firm of Natural Point is not a firm known for resting on its laurels. Just when you think that they achieved the 'ultimate' in control systems they manage to generate an improved version".

"I have recently had the pleasure of using and testing one of their latest bits of equipment and I can tell you that it is a truly fantastic visual controlling system. It's the 'TrackClip PRO' which is an advanced add-on to their already popular TrackIR".

"But first let me explain: when using Microsofts Flight Simulator in the Virtual Reality mode it is possible - either using the keyboard, or something like a 'yoke' (i.e. controlling equipment that duplicates that which is found in light aircraft) - it is possible to 'look around' the interior of your aircraft simply by toggling a switch, key or lever. You do not move your head to do this....as you would in a real life situation...which tends to make it slightly unreal. Natural Point's 'TrackIR' gets over this by allowing the same degree of control in a natural movement of the head: you can also look 'up' and 'down' as you would in real life. The system relies on a sophisticated miniature video camera mounted atop of your VDU".

"The Standard TrackIR requires the wearing of a stiff brimmed hat to which is attached a three-point reflector which they term a Vector. Whilst this works extremely well it is slightly cumbersome when worn in conjunction with a headset (the latter helping recreate additional realism, especially when using the Audio-FX force-feedback type)".

"Now along comes what they term the 'TrackClip PRO' which obviates the need for the hat as it is a 'thingermabob' that is clipped, neatly, to your headset".
"Additionally, because it sports its own set of LED's it is far more precise in operation than the Vector, especially in ambient light situations. In fact I was surprised at just how effective this was. For example I was also able to look over the side of the aircraft - the FS9's bog-standard default CESSNA - simply by a slight movement of my head. And when I stood up I could also see over the front of the plane! Of course, as regular readers know, I combine this with the third-dimension using the famous eDimensional shutter glasses. But even without this extra depth, the added realism was quite remarkable."

"If you already own a TrackIR then you can purchase this very handy and sophisticated add-on for around GBP 40.00 (about US $80.00). If you need the whole kit then it will cost you in the region of GBP 199.00 (US $400, or thereabouts) but this latter kit includes the full trackIR PRO-4 kit as well as the TrackClip PRO".
"But, as they say in other reviews, this new add-on is definately on my recommended list".

"See you next time around"

Regards
Rufus
mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

p.s. For information on the ' TrackIR' motion control (just move your head to see around the cockpit) I am preparing a special pdf leaflet which you can order (FREE) by clicking on: mailto:rufus@gamingin3D.com

p.p.s. You can also find out more about truly realistic FlightSim by going to my web page at http://www.gaming-in-3d.com
and you can ignore the 'cut-off' date provided that you mention AV CONCEPTS.
p.s. to p.s. Oh yes,you can purchase the truly fantastic AUDIO-FX headset with 'force feedback' for just GBP 39.95 (about US $75.00) - they can also be used for speech recognition in conjunction with VOICE BUDDY.

========
THINKS
UNIVAC: a device, which contained 20,000 vacuum tubes, occupied 1,500 square feet and weighed 40 tons; there was also a laptop version weighing 27 tons - Dave Barry
==========================================
AUSTRALIAN WIDESCREEN ASSOCIATION LIVES
==========================================
Tony writes: "Many years ago, before everyone had widescreen television - and along with some enthusaistic friends - I was instrumental in forming an organisation to promote the non-professional use of widescreen on Standard and Super-8 movies. At the time we were considered to be, and I quote, 'A load of nutcases!'. But in the light of present day developments opinions seemed to have changed".

"Anyway, the UK end of the WIDESCREEN ASSOCIATION, as it was called, spawned a number of associate groups around the world; in the USA and El Centro Widescreen in Spain. The UK group lasted for just under 30 years being finally overtaken by the general spread of widescreen to every home. All these associations eventually faded with one notable exception which happily continues to this day. That was, and is, known as the AUSTRALIAN WIDESCREEN ASSOCIATION".

"Not only does it live on, but it embraces much modern technology, 3D, and still holds a yearly competition for which the CLOSING DATE ths year is 12thOctober 2007. If you'd like to enter I can pdf to you a copy of their ENTRY FORM. They accept all widescreen formats both on film, slides and video or DVD based origination, and also widescreen slides (Widelux or Horizont are accepted, plus anamorphically produced or masked-in-camera slides). Email me for your entry form at:auswide@gmail.com

"They are a great crowd of experimenters and certainly deserve your support"
Tonyp.s. they also produce a regular newsletter letter called, appropriately, 'Scope' and you can subscribe to this at Box292, Mooroolbark, VICTORIA 3138, Australia.
=======
THINKS!
One man's folly is often another man's wife - Helen Rowland 1875-1950
============================
JACK'S ANTIQUES AND OTHERS
============================
Says Jack: "A few weeks ago I mentioned my grandchildren...as any grandfather is wont to do....and in my case this was in connexion with the UFO Mothership (for which, incidentally, I gave you the wrong price - my apologies). However, one of the most basic types of model 'flyers' is the GLIDER".

"Of course, full-sized gliders have come in all shapes and sizes and actually pre-date powered flight, so it is not surprising that similar objects are available in the world of small flying models. They have the great advantage that they don't need batteries, chargers, or anything remotely complicated. And that's what I went for with young grandson Ben. It's a range known as 'SKYLINERS' and consists of a collection of colourful 'Airliner' style hand launched gliders, that can fly for 10 meters or more! They come in a 'Ready to Fly' kit form and can be assembled in seconds. Each is a pre-decorated balsa wood glider which features an impact-resistant plastic nose moulding. It also has a wing clip that allows the balance to be adjusted for the best flying performance".

"SKYLINERS are an ideal introduction to flying for any youngster and these have a wingspan of between 9¼-inches to nearly 13-inches ( 250-325mm). And the winning gambit is that they only cost GBP 8.99 (roughly US $ 19.00)".

"You can see them for yourself, and buy them, by going to:http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/gliders1.php
plus many other interesting and fascinating flying objects.

Yours
Jack
"Not quite as 'antique' as Tony makes out!"

mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk
p.s. Don't forget my world-wide mail order service, emaii me at the above address, or avoid Call Centre's by speaking to me on 0115 982 2674
========================================
AND FINALLY...
Success STOP four flights Thursday morning all against twenty one mile wind STOP started from Level with engine power alone STOP speed through air thirty one miles STOP longest period in air 57-seconds STOP inform Press STOP home Christmas - Orville Wright 1871-1948
==========================================
WHERE TO FIND - some recommended reading.
=========================================
Visit :www.Best4Reviews.comIt's a great site for all the new technology. What's more it is also an extremely useful buyers guide web site.

HOW TO START A FORUM. Forum’s are a great way of communicating and widening the appeal or your interest. They help you to make friends on line and put you in touch with the rest of the world. If you have a specialised interest this can provide an ideal outlet and is also a great information gatherer. Why not start one now! http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=50
SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson – all you need to know about making films from script to screen. Definitely the best instruction manual on the art of the movie that you'll ever find: written by a master. Makes a great present, too!http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY: recently updated. How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1
==================================FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES(useful guides to the full kit). Here's a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.
RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally free 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE at:mailto:rufus@gaming-in-3D.com
BERYL GROSSMAN offers you her 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE gives you her extract from her hiughly successful '101 essential BUSINESS TOOLS'. Why not treat yourself and take advantage of her 35 years experience in running her own company by going to:http://www.101BusinessTools.comAdditionally her full toolkit is also now available for Direct Download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache, save yourself an headache - get this toolkit first by going to:
http://www.101businesstools.com/">http://www.101BusinessTools.com
===================================
-------------------------------------------------------------
-That’s it for this issue. Any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please contact me at: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
TonyTONY SHAPPSEditor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
=============================================================================================================================================
For those who missed or didn't receive issue 29

'ere tis'!
Here's your issue number 29 of AV CONCEPTS' Dated: Tuesday 11th September 2007
SUPER-8, FLIGHT SIMULATION, VIRTUAL REALITY, 3D, ASTRONOMY, ONLINE MARKETING, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, METAL DETECTORS, and much, much more!
---------------------
This issue
============
* IT'S A SCHMALFILM WORLD WE LIVE IN
* THINKS!
* U-TUBE SHOWS THE WORKS
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT* AND THE WINNER IS...
* THINKS!
* GOOGLE LAUNCHES INTO FLIGHTSIM* THINKS!
* WHERE TO FIND...* FREE, 3-PART COURSES.
* AND FINALLY...
==================================
IT'S A SCHMALFILM WORLD WE LIVE IN
==================================
Meet Jürgan Lossau. Who? You may ask. Well he is the editor of the English-language version (and the German version also) of a truly excellent movie makers magazine 'SCHMALFILM' - yes the very same title that was one of my questions in last week's competition.....see answers and winner further down the page. Now, I would have thought that SCHMALFILM would have happily translated into English as, yes, SMALL FILM, but Jürgen has chosen to translate it as SMALL FORMAT as he feels this introduces a clarity of purpose for non-German readers. It is a glossy magazine in full colour (what else?) devoted to users of Super-8, Single- and 16mm movie film. It makes truly fascinating reading".

For example, and quoting Jürgen: "Did you know that Bolex worked on a Single-8 camera. Or that Agfa planned a camera that could accept two cartridges at the same time. That Eumig had developed a complete rewinding system for Super-8 cartridges?"
"But there's also much more practical stuff such as ORCHESTRATING LIGHT - which features tips and tricks from a professional TV cameraman, Ulrich Vielmuth, who is also responsible for lighting. In his article, he explains how one uses the necessary lights and determines their location. In addition, he describes in detail how one handles light and shadows correctly during the day".

"Well, it's all in one of the issues of SMALL FORMAT, and you can subscribe to this excellent publication by going to:
http://www.smallformat.de/">www.smallformat.de

TonyTONY SHAPPSE
ditor: AV CONCEPTS
Your friends can subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK email to mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

p.s. And from reader Gerrar Bernell comes the following correction:
"Hello Tony,
Your description of how Read D 3D digital projector works is incorrect. The frame rate is 24fps as any other film. The difference is the left and right views are alternated 6 times per frame, meaning the refresh rate is 144Hz. The light from the projector passes through a Z-Screen which alternates the polarisation to match the left and right polarising filters in the 3D glasses the viewer wears. Regards
Gerrard"(
Editors note: "So now you know!").

====================
THINKS!
Technology... the knack of so arranging the world that we don't have to experience it. - Max Frisch 1911-1991, Swiss Playwright and Novelist.
==============================
U-TUBE SHOWS YOU THE WORKS!
==============================
Writes Jack: "Remember my mention, a few issues back, of my cardboard working model of a Stirling Engine? Well this evinced a great deal of interest and not a few comments like: 'What does it look like when it's working?' So I searched around and finally came up with the answer".

"Now, obviously, one of my problems is/was in explaining this ingenious bit of equipment to you because our Tony chooses, for the moment, to send out 'AV CONCEPTS' as text only (Editors note: I'm working on getting it out in HTML, honest!), but I think that I have come up with an answer that makes it reasonably clear by using the eponymous, and and now very popular, U-TUBE. And you can now see this by going to http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/astronomic1.phpand then clicking on the illustration link to U-TUBE".

"The principle of a Stirling Engine is ingenious and simple: In a sealed cylinder (main cylinder) heated or cooled at one end, a piston (displacement piston) moves the enclosed air back and forth between the cylinder's hot and cold ends. In this way, the air is alternatively heated and cooled, creating a cycle of compression and expansion, of high and low air pressure. A piston, connected to the main cylinder, is kept in motion by the alternating air pressure, and in turn moves a crankshaft and flywheel. A small portion of the produced energy is used to move the displacement piston and keep the engine running by itself....

...AND A CUP OF COFFEE!"

"Now, if you set this fully functional Stirling engine on a cup piping hot coffee and give the flywheel a small thrust to the left, the whole apparatus begins to run - for up to one hour long!"

"However, that's not all: set it on a cold source i.e. a cooling pack from the freezer or a thin block of ice, give a thrust to the flywheel to the right this time, and the whole engine will begin to run. What could be easier?"
THE COMPLETE SET INCLUDES Assembly instructions with diagrams, Historical Background and principles of Operation 3 Sheets of Cut-Outs, 1 Plastic Bag consisting of Aluminium Plates (laser cut), Assorted metal fittings (friction-less plastic axle bearings. Wire bent from spring steel and a Latex glove. Height 16.5cm wide and 12.6cm deep, and you get all this for just GBP 23.97 (around US $46.00).....you supply the hot coffee (or tea)".

Yours
Jack
"Not quite as 'antique' as Tony makes out!"
mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk"
p.s. I operate a world-wide mail order service, emaii me at the above address, or avoid Call Centre's by speaking to me on 0115 982 2674
================================
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
================================
BARE-FACED is today used to describe those whose behaviour is impudent and brazen. However, the original meaning had a more 'wholesome' ring implying openness and honesty. For a bare face was beardless one where everything was plain to see and nothing could be concealed.
======================
"AND THE WINNER IS....."
======================
Here's the answers to our competition set last week...and the lucky winner of one of Tony's coveted prizes;

QUESTION ONE: sounding like a place name, what is the traditional pronged spear used for catching Salmon called?answer: LEISTER (pronounced 'lester' as in Leicester).

QUESTION TWO: what do the initials 'RC' mean as applied to Jack's 'UFO'?answer: RADIO CONTROLLED (as in flying models).

QUESTION THREE: what is the collective term for a group of woodpeckers?answer: DESCENT (have you ever seen a group of Woodpeckers?).

QUESTION FOUR: what is a TrackClip PRO?answer: A headset that delivers precise six degrees of freedom view control (and that's the exact answer given by this week's winner).

QUESTION FIVE: what is the German name for the Super-8 magazine known in English as 'smallformat'?answer: Schmalfilm

And the tie-break that decided it was: "I read AV Concepts because I like to be fully informed on the very latest technologies!"

Oh Yes, and the winner is: John Cave in Merseyside. Well done John, your prize will be on its way to you this coming week. However, I was also impressed with the correct answer received from Sam Spreckley and particularly liked his tie-breaker; so in this case I am 'breaking' from tradition by awarding him a Runner-Up prize. However, there's a snag - Sam did not send me his name and address; so if you're out there please forward this to me and I'll post you on a little gift in appreciation.

Thanks to all of you who entered. It was meant as a bit of fun and I hope that you enjoyed it. Look out for our next competition, next month.
Tony
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. have you visited my blog spot?
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
p.p.s the TrackClip PRO is currently available from our Jack, and you can email him at:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk for details.
=======
THINKS
Thank God for competition. When our competitors upset our plans or outdo our designs, they open infinite possibilities of our own work to us - Gil Atkinson
=================================
GOOGLE LAUNCHES INTO FLIGHTSIM
=================================
Says Rufus: "It seems that Google are always trying to do something a little different and this time have come up with yet another fascinating add-on to their already comprehensive software. Marco Gallotta is probably not a name that you are familiar with, but he produces an interesting web site and I leave it to him to give you the following update".

Writes Marco: "Some time a week or so ago, Google expanded Google Earth with Google Sky (Editors note: a great one for astronomers). Now, as fascinating as Google Sky is, that's not the focus of my interest. Because, along with the latest update comes a hidden feature of which I cannot seem to find any other information about. It's not in the release notes and a search on Google produces no results. Seems Google have done one of their unpublicised updates for which they are becoming well known".
"Believe it or not, what I'm talking about is a FREE Flight simulator embedded within GOOGLE SKY. Sounds awesome, doesn't it? If the thought amazes you as much as it did me, then you might just run off and try to access it for yourself. But there's a problem. Remember what I said above - it's a hidden feature!"

"First of all you'll have to install the latest version of GOOGLE SKY. Once you've started it all up, and explored Google Sky a bit, all you have to do is hit Ctrl+Alt+A (if you're running OS X it's Command+Option+A; some people have reported that Ctrl+A or Ctrl+Windows+A work when the standard Ctrl+Alt+A does not). If all goes as planned a new dialog box should pop up".

"You will find that there are only two aircraft to choose from at this stage. The F16 and an SR22. I find the former the most enjoyable for a quick stint as it goes much faster than the SR22. Try both though as they're quite different flights. Then you get to pick a start position. The default option of Kathmandu runway gives you in the following scene".

Continues Rufus: "Well, there you have it. Marco has a fuller explanation on his blog page and that's also worth a visit:
"http://marco-za.blogspot.com/2007/08/google-earth-flight-simulator.html"

and, of course, Google can be located in all the usual places".
See you next time around"

Regard
mailto:rufus@gamingin3D.com
p.s. and don't forget you can enhance the whole FlightSim experience by adding some of the great items I write about on my web page at:
http://www.gamingin3d.com/">www.gamingin3D.com p.p.s. for information on the ' TrackIR' motion control (just move your head to see around the cockpit) click on: tony@shapps.myzen.co.ukp.s. to p.s. VOICE BUDDY is also available and allows you to 'voice control' your flight.
========================
THINKS!
The House of Commons starts its proceedings with a prayer. The chaplain looks at the assembled members with their varied intelligence and then prays for the country. - Lord Denning
============================
FREE 3-PART MINI- COURSES(useful guides to the full kit). Here's a selection of 'freebies' that you can download to make life a little more interesting.
RUFUS STONE is offering a great introduction to the third dimension with his totally free 'FREE 3-PART MINI-3D COURSE at:
mailto:www.rufus@gaming-in-3D.com

BERYL GROSSMAN offers you her 'FREE 3-PART MINI-BUSINESS COURSE gives you her extract from her hiughly successful '101 essential BUSINESS TOOLS'. Why not treat yourself and take advantage of her 35 years experience in running her own company by going to:
http://www.101businesstools.com
Additionally her full toolkit is also now available for Direct Download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache, save yourself an headache - get this toolkit first by going to:
http://www.101businesstools.com
===================================
AND FINALLY....
What's the quickest way to become a millionaire? Borrow fivers off everyone you meet - Richard Branson , Chairman of The Virgin Group
--------------------------------------------------------------
That’s it for this issue. Any questions or, indeed, ANY COMPLAINTS? Please contact me at:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony
TONY SHAPPSEditor: 'AV CONCEPTS' copyright MMVII
AV CONCEPTS - Your regular information publication. To unsubscribe or change subscriber options again, send an email tto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and just put the word UNSUBSCRIBE or CHANGE in the subject matter. If it's 'change to' please remember to tell me what it is 'changed FROM'.

jack

2007-05-31T16:53:00.000-07:00

READERS SUGGESTION TAKES SHAPE...

2007-05-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

'AV CONCEPTS' issue number 14

**************************************************

For MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION, VIRTUALREALITY, 3D, ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY, METAL DETECTORS, ONLINE MARKETING,and much, much more!

**************************************************

This issue

============

* NEW READER HELPLINE SERVICE

* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT

* TRACKIR TRIUMPHS AGAIN says Rufus* THINKS

* "HOW GOES SUPER-8 FILM?" asks Sophie

* THINKS

* FREE PRIZE DRAW.

* AND FINALLY...

* WHERE TO FIND - handy links and information sources.

* COMING SHORTLY - some special FREE offers.

====================================

NEW 'AV CONCEPTS' READER HELPLINE

====================================

It's with the greatest of pleasure that I announce a new service; a'Reader Helpline'. The inspiration for this was sparked off by oneof our regular readers who has kindly given me permission to sharehis question with you.

So, writes Geoff:
QUESTION: "I have a Rollei MSC 300P twin lens projector that willproject two slides at once (I've tested it!), and I have had somesuccess in taking stereo slides with two Olympus "Trip" cameras,side by side, and viewing the results through two cheap Jessop'splastic viewers.

However, I am interested in the possibility of stereo projection,and understand that polarising filters are needed for the projectorlenses, and polarising specs. for the audience. I also gather thata special, and extremely expensive, silvered screen isnecessary.Any info. as to how the best (and least expensive) way topursue this would be gratefully appreciated".
ANSWER: "Yes, the 'P' version of the Rollei Twin was designed toallow stereo projection of slides. What you require are a pair of LINEAR polarising filters in rotating mounts, ONE FOR EACH LENS, ofcourse (these are usually available to a 49mm diameter atWidescreen and, if I recall the Rollei correctly, are almostexactly the right size to sit inside the front bezel of theRollie's Schneider lenses...might need a little Blue Tack as atemporary measure). Polarising glasses are available in both cardand plastic mounts and should operate on a polarising angle of 45º-the normal European standard. Again, Simon should certainly havethese so email him at:

mailto:simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk

A polarised silver screen is necessary and this item will be yourmost expensive purchase; I don't have current prices by me and,anyway, it depends on the size of screen your require. I wouldcheck with Widescreen and see what they have available (both Braunand Stumpfl used to supply them in the past)".

So, there you have it. If we at AV CONCEPTS can help you in anyway, simply send you question to me atmailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk and I'll do my best to give you theinformation that you need.

TonyTony ShappsEditor: 'AV CONCEPTS'.p.s. "REMINDER about 'HD AV'? There's the 56-page CD giving youthe real inside 'gen' on these upcoming systems. Simply emailme with your name and address and I'll do the rest. You'll be ableto print out the full manuel from this disk....courtesy of 'AV CONCEPTS' and 'STUMPFL', or simply view it on the screen. Eitherway, if you have the disk you're not likely to accidentally wipeit!"

================================

AN EXPERIMENT

================================

Because most of you are busy people, and don't have time to wadethrough massive newsletters, I am trying the experiment this weekof reverting to sending out 'AV CONCEPTS' in text form only. I'mdoing this because one of our readers correctly pointed out that ifyou want additional information on any of the products of subjects mentioned I always include the necessary URL or EMAIL address.

Naturally, I would like to hear your views on this. Do you likeit this way, or do you prefer getting the HTML option? Please letme know by emailing me your opinion. Thanks
Tonymailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk @shapps.myzen.co.ukp.s. A reminder - up to the present I have been sending 'AVCONCEPTS' out in both forms. It then appears on subscriberscomputer in the way most acceptable to the individual recepientcomputer.
==============================

NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!

==============================

'Hear, hear!'

is, of course, a widely used expression of approvalof something a speaker might have said. It dates from the timewhen disapproval was shown by humming. Those who were in favour ofwhat was being said called for others to listen by saying: 'hear,him!' and in time this changed to the 'Hear, hear!' that we usedtoday.

================================

************************************

TrackIR TRIUMPHS AGAIN - Rufus Stone reports..

.========================

My unending fascination with flying was the original reason why Igot into the world of flight simulation. Now, let me make thistotally clear once and for all that flight simulation on a computeris definately not 'gaming'. Of course, you can and do enjoy theendless learning opportunities that it provides, and again it cannever be a substitute for the real thing: but it certainly providesyou with the basics of handling and flying many different types ofaircraft. The British Airways ten-million pound (US $20,000,000)flight simulator located at London's Heathrow International Airportis proof - if proof is still needed - of the usefulness of sucha piece of equipment.

However, to come back to my more prosaic home computer, the ideahere is to simulate as near as possible the various sensations offlying and also the handling of different planes. In the case of myown set-up I have an accurate copy of the standard 'yoke'(steeringcolumn) that most light aircraft use. I also have Pedals which are similar copies of the real thing, and behave in the same manner. Inaddition, as readers of this publication are probably aware, I usethe extremely effective LCD shutter glasses to achieve the dept ofvision (thus visually being able to determine height to ground whenlanding).

And on top of all this I recently installed the latest version ofthe incredible 'TrackIR' motion tracking system. 'AV CONCEPTS' toldyou all about thisbefore when Tony ran their TrackIR Pro-4Competition. Using their Vector System you are able to look aroundthe cabin of your plane, look over the side and even move back andforth in order to see more or less of the instrumentation of theplane you are flying. Normally, in order to use the standardVector, it is necessary to wear of one of Natural Points specialhats. But now they have gone one stage further by introducing anexcellent 'add-on' which they call the TrackClip PRO. Thisaccessory simply clips to virtually any over-the-ear headset and, combined with a TrackIR PRO-4, delivers precise 6 degrees offreedom to view control. On your favourite headset, the only thingyou will notice about the lightweight TrackClip PRO and yourimproved gaming experience. The reason for this is that it usesactive LEDs to give you totally precise tracking. To do this itutilises an USB power tap, with USB pass through.

The upshot of all of this is an excellent and responsive systemwhich, combined with the use of 3D does give you an uniqueexperience. It might not be quite the equivalent of the BAHeathrow Simulator, but it does allow you to do most of theactions necessary to fly an aircraft, and it's great fun, too! Itried it on a night flying excercise taking off from SeatleInternational Airport (the standard Microsoft default location) and the effectiveness has to be seen to be believed.

So, there you have it. A completely enhanced experience in yourown home.
Yours

Rufus

p.s. If you'd like to know more about British Airways flightsimulators - and be able to have a go with them, then log on to:http://www.ebaft.com/index1.htm

p.p.s If you'd like to know more about Natural Point's TrackClipPro log on to

:http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/virtualreality.php

=============================================

THINKS

Flattery is telling others exactly what they think of themselves. =======================================

Sophie asks: "HOW GOES SUPER-8 FILM?"

=======================================

"These days it is often thought that there is little future forchemically-based film stock. 'Go digital, young man!' is the oftrepeated advice, but let me tell you a true story which will mostcertainly give you pause for thought".

"Meet Jake Astbury. He's in charge of the Motion Picture Divisionof London-based Widescreen Centre, his experience must be typicalof many, so here's his cautionary warning: says cinematographerJake 'Unfortunately I followed my College Tutor's advice when hetold me that Super 8 was dead and that I should transfer all mywork to High Band U-Matic. That was years ago. It turned out to bepoor advice; and was most certainly not true'.
'The upshot of this is that now I cannot watch my degree workbecause of drop out, poor tracking and lack of suitableplayers.Now, contrast that with the fact that, these days, the filmand TV industry is using more and more Super 8!'

And then Jake goes on to say 'Many people still view Super 8 as anamateur format. A myth perpetuated by memories of watching homemovies, shot by Dad, shaky, scratched and under-exposed. Thereality of Super 8 is far cry from this perceived wisdom'."
"So, despite the advance of the digital age, I want to echo Jake'sreasoning and say why Super-8 is still an excellent format. Firstlyand foremost, it's accepted that images will last because they areon film. But Super 8 is more than the perfect medium for creating ideas on film at a low cost; many now shoot Super 8 for TVcommercials! Then again, it's not difficult to make Super 8 shinewith images full of production value. The tactile feel of filmevokes a response from new filmmakers when they have to make thechoice between shooting digitaly or on film. Super 8 emulsions aresome of the oldest available, and have a seminal feel harking backto the days of Technicolor®. Films like 'Taxi Driver' and'Apocalypse Now' have stunning colour and texture content thattruly represents the infinite dynamics of film".
"Then there's the versatility of Super-8 cameras. They bristle withfeatures such as variable shutter, time-lapse, single frame, slowmotion, variable speeds, macro, auto 'B' setting, back wind, crossdissolve, fade, and fast 1.2 or 1.4 lenses used with a 220-degreeshutter for low-light shots (standard Super-8 shutters have an180-degree opening, low-light - or XL as they are called - models have the 220-degree opeing, effectively almost doubling theuse of available light)".

Continues Sophie: "I could go on and on about the format, butsuffice to say that if you're really interested in making moviesthen it's well worth exploring this medium. You can check outstocks etc., by going tohttp://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk/ or by emailing young DoctorBennett at mailto:simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk"

"So there you have it. Any questions?"

Sophie
p.s. As I only work part time on 'AV CONCEPTS' can you - for the time being - address any messages to me via Tony's email address:mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

p.p.s A reminder that you can still download a copy or 'SUCCESSFULMOVIE MAKING' by that doyen of film wirters, Ivan Watson, by goingto: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42 where you'll find all you need to know about making films fromscript to screen.
I also note that there's a FREE 3-PART mini FILM COURSE on Ivan'ssite - that's got to be worth investigating.

=======================================

THINKS!

"Four things come not back: the spoken word, the spent arrow, thepast, and the neglected opportunity" - Omar Idn Al-Halif ===========================================

*******************************************************

FREE PRIZE DRAW

Enjoy reading 'AV CONCEPTS'? Introduce a friend. Get them to senda blank email to: mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com...then email me tolet me know at mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk that you have sentit. If they subscribe I'll include both of your names in my PrizeDraw next month. What could be easier?

Remember that current and back issues of 'AV CONCEPTS' are usuallyavailable to read on my 'blogger' page. I'm offering this servicebecause I think you'll find lots of useful information in eachissue but, if you're like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that "now where did I see thatmentioned?" syndrome - well, now you'll know where to find it. You can find it at: http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/ sokeep a note of it for future reference.
==================================

AND FINALLY

Gambling is the sure way of getting nothing for something!____________________________________

*********************************************

WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

================

GET FLYING WITH BRITISH AIRWAYS...try their flight simulator atHeathrow: http://www.ebaft.com/index1.htm

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson - all you need to know aboutmaking films from script to screen. Definately the best instructionmanual on the art of the movie that you'll ever find: written by ama\ster. Makes a great present, too!http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42Take the FREE 3-part mini course.

101 BUSINESS TOOLS - FREE 3-PART mini business course nowavailable at: http://www.101businesstools.com/ It's the bookthey're all talking about. And it's now available for download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache - getthis toolkit first by going to: http://www.101BusinessTools.com

PURE ADSENSE GOLD - is a comprehensive course on learning how toset up and sell online. Comes in the form of well laid out,downloadable, series ofvideos.http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

CREATE A PRODUCT - TELESIMINAR - sit in on the experts with theseadvanced online selling videos. Absorbing stuff.http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=18

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY: recently updated. How To Write ANewsletter toolkit - features 100's of articles for your personaluse on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be'stuck for copy'! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIThttp://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=40

'CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT' - back to basics.http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=30

AVG - THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION program...EVER! And I'm not kiddingyou because I've now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOURCOMPUTER with AVG by going to:http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

HOW TO BLOG FOR CASH....never miss an opportunity.http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14

=======================================================

That's it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.TonyTony ShappsEditor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

-----------------------------------------------------------------

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W

===============================================================

COMING SOON: I'm still working on the report for the new StumpflWINGS PLATINUM-3 CD...the way ahead...but I have now received thetest CD's so please feel free to ask for a copy by sending yourname and address to:mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

==============================================================

POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITALVERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I amhoping for additional information.

'3D COMPUTER GAMING': Rufus Stone's new book and toolkit showingyou how to do stereoscopic work with your computer - check it outtoday and see for yourselfhttp://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/RUFUS_reader_offer.php

*********************************************************

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR MP

2007-05-01T05:37:00.000-07:00

'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 10
***********************************************************
For MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION & VIRTUAL REALITY, IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, METAL DETECTORS,ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more

**************************************************
This Issue:
* HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR MP?
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!
* IT’S YOUR OPINION
* WHAT IS HDAV? Part 2.
* SOPHIES BLOGS OF WISDOM
* AND FINALLY...
* WHERE TO FIND
* AVOID THAT SYNDROME
* COMING SHORTLY – some special FREE offers.
_________________________________
******************************
HOW WELL DO YOUR KNOW YOUR MP?
******************************
Every 4/5 years, in the UK, if you’re a good citizen you get out there and vote in an election; you view the promises of the parties and try and judge which one is best suited to govern for the following 4/5 years.

But exactly how well do you know your Member of Parliament? I’m not talking about personal acquaintances (although I’ve met a few in my time) but exactly what do they do for you - if anything?

Well the answer would appear to be in a web site called THEYWORKFORYOU.COM

This site offers a true ‘insight’ into the work each MP does for his constituents, how he votes, what committees he services on, etc. It’s a mine of information and once you go to it you find you’re hooked. For example, you will find comments on the number of ‘questions to ministers’ that any one MP raises; here’s one

“Written Answers - Treasury: Childbirth: Registration (23 Apr 2007) http://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2007-04-23a.132086.h&s=speaker%3A11917#g132086.q0
Grant Shapps MP: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the number of fraudulent applications for birth certificates in each of the last four years; and if he will make a statement”.

Now, if you click on that link it throws up an enormous amount of information on the subject. But the site also gives you facts a figures which make interesting reading. So, before you vote next time, do a bit of checking up on your MP. Go to:

http://www.theyworkforyou.com

You can actually subscribe to the site (it’s free) and find out on a daily basis what your own Member of Parliament is doing on your behalf. I am sure you’ll find it quite surprising.

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'
Subscribe to 'AV CONCEPTS' by sending a BLANK email to
mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com
or visit me at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
mailto: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
***************************************
NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!

A BAKER’S DOZEN contains thirteen items as opposed to the familiar twelve. This dates form the time when Bakers were subject to hevy fines if they served under-weight bread. To avoid this danger, bakers provided a surplus number of loaves, the thirteenth loaf in the dosen being called the vantage loaf.
_________________________________________
****************************************
IT’S YOUR OPINION...
Reader Geoffrey Darling writes:

Dear Tony

I have been catching up at home and remembered the item on “SOPHIE'S WORDS OF WISDOM - is 35mm projection dead?” as it follows various discussions within my local photographic society and with myself when changing cameras in 2006. There are a number of points to bear in mind: -

1. After 40+ years of taking slides the logistics of changing over to digital are tremendous both in time and money. I am not prepared to spend the time or cash to transfer to the new media at this stage of my life nor do I have the cash to spare!

2. Another point is that I have my slides in metal drawers using Kenro Filing System that I find works very well for me, you just plonk the folder with 24 slides on the light table so you can pick what you want. Having worked in commerce backing up of computer files is very important and how long do they last. I have seen or heard of too much valuable information lost/deleted to be confident – personally it took me 4 working days, full time, to restore files that were ‘lost’ for even 8 sets of back-ups would not work!

3. 35mm is a standard system throughout the world, for now, whilst there are a number of systems covering digital imaging. As yet, there is not a worldwide standard.

4. Digital certainly has its place and I welcome it as progress that cannot be stopped. Some members of Society can remember the furore when colour was introduced into films etc.

5. Change is difficult item to manage as the human person seems to prefer a certain routine. The converse is the change can be both exciting and challenging at the same time. How did we ever manage without computers or mobile phones in the past – we just did.

6. Turning specifically to colour projection I am of the opinion that colour slides still hold an advantage over digital even though the difference is becoming smaller. To my eye it is the colour hues in a slide that do not appear in digital. What must be remembered is that digital projectors are primarily manufactured for presentation in conditions where there is quite a high level of ambient light although the projector can be adjusted to ensure that digital images are seen almost in the same conditions as slides. During a recent sub-committee meeting our club is changing its rules for 2008 – 2009 to encompass the digital revolution, mind there will be still a place for slides albeit on a reduced role.

An AV show with slides still has a place using whatever system you use, my 2 carousels with Imatronic 25 year equipment, produces wonderful images as I when giving 52 minutes of sequences of a visit to West Coast of the USA. It was split into 15 sections with separate pieces of music.

Recently I have been successful in obtaining GEPE mounts of various types from Speed Graphic whose service was very good and they are most helpful on the phone. Fuji are to reintroduce Velvia 50 because of demand and I still use Kodak 100 Extra Colour Slide film that suits my style.

Geoff

EDITORS NOTE: Well Geoff you certainly provide ‘food for thought’ there. It might interest you to know that Benkatie-Trading offer a full list of GePe slide mounts and their excellent web site not only has them all listed but also offers a pdf of the complete GePe slide mount catalogue: a very useful publication. You can access this page by going to:

http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/gepe.php

*****************************************
THINKS
It works! Now if only I could remember what I did...
__________________________________________________
*********************
What is HDAV? Part 2. Professional HDAV with Wings Platinum
*********************
The Stumpfl system consists of a combination between our multimedia software Wings Platinum and sophisticated hardware – the modular SC Net system. Both are perfectly matched and offer continuous synchronization of media and devices with a high degree of flexibility.

Wings Platinum is based on what is known as ultra-modern software architecture. In order to create a good performance and flexible media integration with simplified operation, they have developed a completely new user interface. The focus is on media objects arranged on a timeline, i.e. sound elements, pictures, videos or data objects for spot lights, switches, serial commands, etc. Editing of all these objects is based on a uniform concept and, therefore, extremely simple. Any editing is virtually non-destructive, i.e. all media files on the hard disk remain unchanged and editing steps can be made undone or changed.

MEDIA INTEGRATION

The main strength of the Stumpfl system lies in its media integration.
Everything that can be presented or controlled in some way, can be arranged
on the computer via Wings Platinum, can be edited, reviewed and presented. This way, high-resolution pictures, HD-quality videos and multi-channel sound can be merged into unique AV shows.

Wings Platinum takes advantage of the high computing power of modern 3D graphics cards for optimum image representation. All editing steps and modifications are immediately displayed in real time at maximum quality.

The image mix is rendered entirely by the graphics card, which means that no extra load is put on the main processors. The computer, actually, only needs to play back the sound and to ensure that the image information is loaded into the graphics card memory. In terms of image rendering modern 3D graphics cards are 1,000 times more efficient than a main processor and offer the optimum preconditions for 3D rendering with graphics memories of up to 256 MB.

Also the new 3D multidisplay technology uses hardware rendering for show presentation. For this purpose, several projectors or displays are combined and supplied with synchronized image information from networked presentation computers. You are completely free to arrange the screen fields in any way you like, so that even overlapping soft edge projection is possible. The show is edited on the master, which automatically transfers the media files to the slaves. Consequently, the only limit in terms of size and dimensions of a show is the media designers' imagination.
----------
In Part 3 we will talk about synchronisation with the new Wings Platinum-3.
Cheers
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: AV CONCEPTS
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. in the meantime the Wings-3 free program CD’s is now available: just let me know if you would like a copy reserved for you.
===========================================

SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WISDOM
***************************************************
Says Sophie: “I’ve nothing for you this week because I am busy checking out some new stuff. But I’ll be back in the next issue; meanwhile just a reminder that you can learn how to get on line with PURE ADSENSE GOLD. And the place to start? Just go to:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

See you next issue”.
Sophie
p.s. As I’m only working part time on AV CONCEPTS can you - for the time being - address any messages to me via Tony’s email address:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

==============================================================
AND FINALLY
The fastest way to find something you've lost is to replace it
________________________________________
*********************************************************
WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!
================
101 BUSINESS TOOLS - the book they're all talking about. And it’s now available for download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache - get this toolkit first by going to:
http://www.101BusinessTools.com

PURE ADSENSE GOLD – learn how to set up and sell online.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

CREATE A PRODUCT – TELESIMINAR – advanced online selling videos.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=18

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:
How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIT
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=40

‘CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT’ – back to basics.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=30

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson – all you need to know about making films from script to screen.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42

AVG – THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION program...EVER! And I’m not kidding you because I’ve now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to: http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

HOW TO BLOG FOR CASH
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14
=======================================================
********************************************************
YOU CAN TAKE PART IN MY FREE PRIZE DRAW

If you enjoy reading ‘AV CONCEPTS’? Why not spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? All they have to do is to send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com

...then email to let me know that you have done that, and if they subscribe I’ll include both your name your recommended friends name (don’t forget addresses) in my Prize Draw next month. What could be easier?

Remember that current and back issues of ‘AV CONCEPTS’ are normally available to read on my ‘blogger’ page. I’m offering this service because I think you’ll find lots of useful information in each issue but, if you’re like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that “where did I see that mentioned?” syndrome - well, now you’ll know where to find it. You can find it at:

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/

keep a note of it for future reference.
=======================================================
That’s it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'
Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
-----------------------------------------------------------------
To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:
http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W
===============================================================
COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3 plus FREE HD-AV CD…the way ahead...I have now received the test CD’s.
==============================================================
POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information.

ALSO COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone’s new book and toolkit on ‘3D COMPUTER GAMING’ – check it out http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/RUFUS_reader_offer.php
*********************************************************

WHAT DO WE MEAN BY ‘HD-AV’?

2007-04-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

WHAT DO WE MEAN BY ‘HD-AV’?

'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 10 {!date dayname+0} {!date long+0}
***********************************************************
For MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, FLIGHT SIMULATION & VIRTUAL REALITY, IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, METAL DETECTORS,ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more

**************************************************
This Issue:
* WHAT IS HDAV. Part 1.
* NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT.
* DOING WHAT COMES NATURAL_LY - Competition Winners.
* THINKS
* HARD TO FIND - we found it!
* THINKS.
* SOPHIES’S BLOGS OF WISDOM – Striking Gold Online!
* AND FINALLY...
* WHERE TO FIND
* AVOID THAT SYNDROME
* COMING SHORTLY – some special FREE offers.
_________________________________
*********************
What is HDAV? Part 1.
*********************

We hear a lot these days about HIGH DEFINITION, mostly applied to new TV sets which carry a little label stating that they are ‘HD READY’.

However, HD extends further than future TV sets, because – more and more – we’re seeing the letters ‘HDAV’ - which is short for High Definition Audiovisual - applied to a new quality standard for digitally-produced Audiovisual productions. Similar to the high-resolution TV standard, the idea is to get the best resolution and quality that is currently possible.

Achieving this new superior quality has only become possible through the development of groundbreaking new software (for example, Wings Platinum). Such a new standard opens up a wide range of possibilities that can employ multidisplay technology. HDAV projection has now become "the measure of all things" allowing greater freedom of artistically produced, high-quality, shows.

However, this technology should be seen as a means to an end, and not the end in itself. Fact is, in design terms, a production is no longer restricted to a single screen. It can also include the areas around the screen by controlling ancillary lighting and other elements. Thus providing an impressive audience experience for...which will also be seen as being distinctly different from mere film productions. Digital projection allows the creator to use his or her particular image language without any compromises, using effects, such as motorized mirrors, gobo lights or moving elements which can be integrated and synchronized with ease, thus lending an extra dimension to the production.

It is in this manner that HDAV advance creative standards.

In Part 2 we will talk about Professional HDAV with the new Wings Platinum-3, but in the meantime the Wings-3 free program CD’s should shortly be available: just let me know if you would like a copy reserved for you.

Cheers
Tony
TONY SHAPPS
Editor: AV CONCEPTS
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
p.s. And, yes, you can also add 3D generated images to the above list. You 21-trial version of 3D COMBINE is ready and waiting…you only have to ask.
_____________________________________
*************************************
“NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT!”
British Chancellors of the Exchequer traditionally use a red leather case to hold their budget finance statement. However, there is a closer association between that case and the money: an early French word for such a document wallet is ‘bougette’ which eventually lent its name to the contents. Since 60% of the English language is derived from French I suppose that this is not surprising.
____________________________________
************************************
‘DOING WHAT COMES NATURAL-LY’
- our GREAT, GREAT, COMPETITION
***************************
TrackIR......And the winners are...
*************************************
Well, well, what a terrific response to our TrackIR Competition - seems that you all want to get your ‘head in the picture’. But there could only be two winners because our friends at Natural Point generously donated two sets of the latest version of TrackIR for last weeks competition.

But first, the answers to the questions:

THE WONDERFUL ‘TRACKIR’ Natural Point COMPETITION:

QUESTION NUMBER ONE: c./ Oregon?

QUESTION NUMBER TWO: c./ 360-degrees. Yes you can see behind you, in fact all around you simply by moving your head (well, of course, that’s what you normally do anyway).

QUESTION NUMBER THREE: “TrackIR” can also be used in conjunction with 3D-type shutter glasses? A./ True. The combined effect is terrific, especially when used for night flying.

AND THE TWO LUCKY WINNERS ARE:

Tony Dunlop, who writes: “I would like TrackIR because it’s just like ‘being there’ without the expense of ‘being there’”. You’re TrackIR will be on its way to you shortly.

Joseph Sigaret, who writes: “I would like TrackIR because it’s that final touch of realism”. Joe (I think it’s Joe) can I please have your name and address (well your address, since I obviously have your name), so that I can send on your prize.

To all of your who took part, may I say thank you. Also to Natural Point of Oregon, USA, who so kindly offered the prizes. There could only be two winners in this competition, but I hope that you all enjoyed taking part. So stay with me for our next one.

Tony
mailto;tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com

p.s. Want to see just how TrackIR works? Go to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AO0F5sLdVM

p.p.s...want to buy a TrackIR now and get started right away? No problem, simply go to: http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/virtualreality.php
____________________________________________
************************************************
THINKS!
A friend is someone who thinks you're a good egg even though you're slightly cracked.
***********************************************

HARD TO FIND? WE FOUND IT!

Every so often young Jeff, our researcher, comes up with one or two of those difficult - or even impossible - items that some people still want, and have spent ages looking for. This week he has found something truly special.

Says Jeff: ”The name RITTAI may mean nothing to you if you’re under 30 years old, but this was a four lens, motor-driven, Stereoscopic Camera for three-dimensional work. The lenses, all four of them, were (are) 25mm focal length with an effective aperture of f.4.5, and the camera has built-in flash a tripod bush and corded wrist strap. It’s powered by two AA batteries and offers three apertures which are manually changed on the front of the camera - each being indicated by visually descriptive logos. Takes standard 35mm film stock which can be processed normally - then use the two outside images for stereo on your computer screen (with the help of 3D COMBINE of course). This one is in reasonable condition and, as far as I know, actually works”.

“It’s yours, FREE of course, just for the cost of postage - email Tony at:

mailto@tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

with your name and address, if you’d like to have it”.

Jeff
Researcher to ‘AV CONCEPTS’
P.S. Why not request a copy of the FREE, 21-day trial 3D COMBINE whilst your about it? Then, when you’ve shot your first stereo pictures you can scan them into your computer and go from there with 3D COMBINE.
p.p.s. “Any takers for last weeks offer of 1800ft of unopened MAXELL reel-to-reel tape? It would be a shame to ‘bin it’. If you know someone who’d like it let me know, via tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk ”.
--------------------------------------------
**********************************************
THINKS
A diet is a selection of food that makes other people lose weight.
*******************************************
===========================================

SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WISDOM - Striking Gold Online!
***************************************************
Says Sophie: “Everyone would like to strike gold, and everyone out there purports to tell you how to do it - especially when they are involved with online selling. So it was with some scepticism that I loaded a new CD into my computer which carried the title ‘PURE ADSENSE GOLD’ on it”.

“Like most of you out there, I’ve seen inflated claims for what this, or that, super-duper program can do for you and I only agreed to review this one because Tony asked me to. He was truly enthusiastic about it (almost to the point of being boring!), so I decided to give it a whirl. Well, if you’d like to get into internet marketing, if you have a product that you feel you owe to the wider world, then this is certainly the disk for you. In one CD it encapsulates the ‘whys and ‘wherefores’, the ‘how to – and how not to’ – go about selling on the web. But better than that, it gives you a no-nonsense step-by-step guide to seeing up your own selling site”.

“The CD contains the actual software that you can use to help build on a Google’s AdSense site. What’s more, much of the additional software spoken about on the disk is mostly available free of charge. And as if that's not enough, it also shows you how to get free help and assistance as well”.

“In fact, this ‘PURE ADSENSE GOLD’ Toolkit, as it is called, appreciates the fact that we all learn at different speeds; so it includes some clever combinations of streaming videos and manuals. That way it tries to ensure that you won't miss out on anything! And I particularly liked the bit about creating traffic-pulling directories that Google (and, seemingly, other search engines) won't just like...they'll love! Why? Because you'll be providing genuine original content for the internet, but best of all you'll be producing this new content faster than you’ve ever imagined possible”.

“So, I’m sure you’ll already have cottoned on to the fact that I was as impressed with this ToolKit as was Tony. If you’ve never tried putting up your own web site and selling on the web, then this is a good place to start, but you don’t have to take MY WORD for it, just go to:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

and you’d be amongst the best of them”
See you next issue.
Sophie
p.s. As I’m only working part time on AV CONCEPTS can you - for the time being - address any messages to me via Tony’s email address:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

==============================================================
AND FINALLY... If at first you don't succeed, call it version 1.0.
*********************************************************
WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!
================
101 BUSINESS TOOLS - the book they're all talking about. And it’s now available for download. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache - get this toolkit first by going to:
http://www.101BusinessTools.com

PURE ADSENSE GOLD – learn how to set up and sell online.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=51

CREATE A PRODUCT – TELESEMINAR – advanced online selling videos.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=18

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:
How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIT
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=40

‘CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT’ – back to basics.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=30

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson – all you need to know about making films from script to screen.
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=42

AVG – THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION program...EVER! And I’m not kidding you because I’ve now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to: http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

HOW TO BLOG FOR CASH
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufusstone&pid=14
=======================================================
********************************************************
AVOIDING THAT “where did I see that mentioned?” SYNDROME!

Enjoy reading ‘AV CONCEPTS’? Spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? All they have to do is to send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com

...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier?

Remember that current and back issues of ‘AV CONCEPTS’ are available to read on my ‘blogger’ page. I’m offering this service because I think you’ll find lots of useful information in each issue but, if you’re like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that “where did I see that mentioned?” syndrome - well, now you’ll know where to find it. You can find it at:

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/

keep a note of it for future reference.
=======================================================
That’s it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.

Tony
Tony Shapps
Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'
Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
-----------------------------------------------------------------
To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:
http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W
===============================================================
COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3 plus FREE HD-AV CD…the way ahead.
==============================================================
POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information.
ALSO COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone’s new book and toolkit on ‘3D COMPUTER GAMING’ – check out our special ‘READERS OFFER’ (ends 30th April 2007) at:
http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/RUFUS_reader_offer.php
*********************************************************

"AVE YOU EVER 'EARD OF IT, MATE!"

2007-04-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

"AVE YOU EVER 'EARD OF IT, MATE!"
'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 7 ***********************************************************

For IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, FLIGHT SIMULATION & VIRTUAL REALITY, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, METAL DETECTORS,ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more **************************************************

This Issue:

* "NEVER 'EARD OF IT, MATE!" - A Jack Grossman special.

* THINKS

* ON BEING DISALLUSIONED...THE AUTOSPONDER AND ME! Tony reveals all!

* THINKS

* 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum' - SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WISDOM'

* WHERE TO FIND

* AVOID THAT SYNDROME* COMING SHORTLY

_________________________________
***************************"

NEVER 'HEARD OF IT, MATE!"

***************************

Says Jack: "I recently went into a well-known photographic suppliers and asked if they had any Single-8 film. A puzzled look came over the face of the assistant who, in turn called over the manager to help solve the mystery. He quickly said to me 'Yer mean that old stuff that went through a camera twice and was split downthe middle?'. Well I tried to explain that this was not what I was after, to which he replied 'Never 'eard of it mate!'. So, of course, I left empty-handed".

"Now It's a strange fact of commercial life that the acknowledged 'best' products do not always succeed over the less worthy. Think of the clash between the Philips Beta video system and the VHS ofJVC, and you'll see exactly what I mean. All the experts considered that Beta 2000 gave superior image quality, but notwithstanding this, VHS won out with the general public. Better marketing? Perhaps superior distribution, lower price? Irrespective of the reason Beta 2000 sank below the horizon".

"And in the world of cine film (you know, the stuff you could hold up to the light and actually see the image) Kodak - then an unapproachable power in the world of film emulsion and photography in general - introduced their Super-8 Movie System, which was faced with similar competition from their arch enemies, Fuji, who plumped for what they called 'SINGLE-8'. All dimensions for this gauge were exactly the same as Super-8, except for the magazine into which it was loaded, and the actual composition of the emulsion base...the latter being unbreakable but thinner polyester".

"However, the result of having a different magazine meant that a different type of movie camera was required to house it, and therein more or less proved its downfall. Initially, Canon, Elmo and Fuji all produced cine cameras to accommodate SINGLE-8 but very soon the first two companies ceased production and concentrated on Super-8 as being more financially viable. However, a smaller bandof enthusiast stuck with what they considered to be the superior format right up until recently when Fuji at last announced that they were ceasing production of the film stock!".

"And" continues Jack "that might have been the end of it but for enlightened dealers in both Japan and the UK who have set up production facilities to continue to supply this excellent stock. Of course, it's never going to be cheap, but if it means preventing your camera from becoming a museum piece, then surely any extra expenditure is worth it - especially for the excellent visual results that you can achieve. So, if you used to use SINGLE-8, or indeed would still like to use one of Fuji's super cameras, then I can tell you that the film is available again. Just click on:

http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/single8.php
and check it out for yourself".

"See you next time"
JACKp.s. Don't forget there's also a special line in Antique Replica astronomical instruments,
just go to: http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/astronomic.php

********************************************

THINKS! If I try to be like him, who will be like me? (Yiddish proverb) *********************************************

---------------------------------------------

ON BEING DISALLUSIONED...THE AUTOSPONDER AND ME! Tony reveals all!

---------------------------------------------
"Technology" says Tony "is a wonderful thing, and when it comes to publishing a newsletter like 'AV CONCEPTS' it can also be of great assistance. For example, using a system known as an AUTOSPONDER I am able to mail many thousands of people at the same time. When this publication goes out, usually (but not always) on a Tuesday, I'm sure that it will not come as a revelation to you that I do not sit down and send individual emails to each and every one of you".

"How do I do it? I use a mailing house which operates that AUTOSPONDER. I pre-write messages, the newsletter, and any other things that I want to you know about, and then instruct them to 'broadcast' (as they call it) each of them at certain times on specific days".

"However, the clever part is that I am able to 'personalise' each and every mail shot by including a little bit of what is known as 'script' within the copy that indicates that your name should appear at that point. To save typing time each and every week I also enter a bit of similar 'script' for the day and date. The AUTOSPONDER automatically fills in the details at each of these points".

"Now don't get me wrong. Of course I would prefer to be able to mail each and every one of you on a personal level, but that would take the whole week, and more, to do. On the other hand, if you drop me an email at any time then YOU WILL DEFINITELY get a personal answer. I swear not to use an automatic answering system because that would negate the whole purpose of 'AV CONCEPTS' which is to communicate with each and everyone of you as and when you need it".

"What's more, should you decide that you need to talk to me personally, you won't get a 'call centre' in some far off jungle trying to answer your questions and not having the faintest idea of what you're message is about! But I am sure that you can see why an AUTOSPONDER is so useful for a regular publication".

"Want to know more? Just email me...you'll not be disallusioned".

Tony

Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS'

"the 100% human answering service"

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
p.s. "Next issue I'll tell you about Natural Point's 'TrackIR' and their great competition. Two lucky people will each win a TrackIR of their own, and one of them could be you - autosponder willing!"

p.p.s. Meanwhile, if you can't wait to find out about it, take alook at the demo at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AO0F5sLdVM
then contact me for further information.Tony

_______________________________

***********************************************

THINKS! A conference is a gathering of important people who individually can't do anything but together can decide that nothing can be done. _____________________________________________

************************************************
'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'

- SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WISDOM'

***************************************************

Says Sophie:

"When I first came on board to assist with 'AV CONCEPTS' I was given the brief by Tony to talk about various methods of ONLINE MARKETING. He assured me that I would be able to pontificate on just about anything I liked provided that it was pertinent to my subject. Well this week I have something that is often overlooked when trying to gain friends and influence people on the net. I'm talking about Forums"

"Believe it or not, there's no faster way to gain credibility in today's competitive world than to establish your own discussion forum. You see when visitors discover your forum they'll immediately recognize you as an acknowledged expert in your field. Your credibility will jump sky high and others will defer to your greater knowledge".

"So" continues Sophie "a forum is a fantastic way to boost your personal position, or to help grow your business or organization,because it provides a meeting place for everyone who wants to discuss your particular subject. But wait...it really only gets better! You see a discussion forum needn't cost you a penny to establish, and better still, it'll keep running by itself - day and night. And all without costing you a red cent. Yes, believe it or not, you can run a successful forum absolutely free of charge!"

"What's more, a properly created forum - that runs like clockwork -can quite literally be a credibility building, cash generating dream come true. As your discussion board grows, your reputation develops, and you can start to cash in on all that extra traffic and the high esteem in which you'll be held. So it's a win/win situation for you. However, the sad truth is that most people never get off the starting block when it comes to developing their own discussion forum. Of course they realise that establishing their own forum makes a lot of sense, but unfortunately they just don'tknow how to go about setting one up. Just think about this for a moment...if you want to set up your own forum you've have to make alot of decisions. And just where do you turn to for answers? Who is going to help you?"

"Well, don't despair. Help is at hand in the form of my good friend Michael Green's unique 'HOW TO START A FORUM TOOLKIT'. Yes,Everything you need to know, and that includes where to get the software or forum service for FREE! So if you're interested take a peak at:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=50
...you've nothing to lose and a lot to gain.

Need I say more?"

Sophie

p.s. A reminder! Thinking about Tony's autosponder remarks. Do you want to know more about writing newsletters that really make your readers sit up and take notice? Or maybe you edit a club or firms publication and have run out of ideas? Give yourself a break, take a look at:http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1
==================================================

*********************************************************

WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

================

101 BUSINESS TOOLS - the book they're all talking about. Your guide to business
success. Save yourself heartache - get this toolkit first by going to:http://www.101BusinessTools.com

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100's of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be 'stuck for copy'! Go visit:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIT

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=40

'CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT'

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=30

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=42

AVG - THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION program...EVER! And I'm not kidding you because I've now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOURCOMPUTER with AVG by going to:
http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

HOW TO BLOG FOR CASH

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=14

=======================================================

AVOIDING THAT "where did I see that mentioned?" SYNDROME!

===================================================
Enjoy reading 'AV CONCEPTS'? Spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? All they hve to do is to send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com
...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier?

Remember that current and back issues of 'AV CONCEPTS' are available to read on my 'blogger' page. I'm offering this service because I think you'll find lots of useful information in each issue but, if you're like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that "where did I see that mentioned?" syndrome - well, now you'll know where to find it. You can find it at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
keep a note of it for future reference.

=============================================

That's it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.
TonyTony ShappsEditor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

-----------------------------------------------------------------

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W

==================================================

COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3

=================================================

POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information

ALSO COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone's new book and toolkit on '3DCOMPUTER GAMING'*

********************************************************

FLIGHTSIM REALISM

2007-03-30T05:06:00.000-07:00

FlightSim Realism
'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 7 ************************************************************************

For FLIGHT SIMULATION & VIRTUAL REALITY, MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, METAL DETECTORS, & IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more
**************************************************

This Issue:

* FlightSim - CREATING REALISM!

* THINKS!

* ANALOG or DIGITAL - the Debate Pt 2 including readers letters.

* THINKS!

* SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WIDSOM

* COMING SHORTLY

* WHERE TO FIND

* AVOID THAT SYNDROME

_________________________________
******************************************

FlightSim - CREATING REALISM!

******************************************

Tony says: "Flight simulation, using a home computer, has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years. It used to be thought of as simply 'computer gaming', but now all that has changed and it has become a serious tool in the hands of both would-be pilots and, indeed, real pilots".

"Would-be pilots can actually learn the basics of flying, and fully-trained, real-life, pilots can check out the controls of an aircraft that they need to fly in the future but are - as yet - unfamiliar with".

"If you've never had a look at Microsoft's FlighSim program you will not have realised that there is actually a complete basic flying course included which takes you through the following: Lesson 1. Straight & level flight., Lesson 2. Turns., Lesson 3.Climb & descent., Lesson 4. Slow flight., Lesson 5. Take offs., Lesson 6. Landings and finally Lesson 7. Your first solo flight. So we're talking serious stuff here".

"As a child, I always had an abiding interest in flight and this has continued through to adulthood. Unfortunately, during most of my working life, I could never afford the cost of flying lessons, but my younger son can...and does...both own a small aircraft and fly's it regularly. Which is, I suppose, known as fullfilling ones personal dreams in your own children. However, to get back to FlightSim: REALISM is the name of the game, and the overall effects can be greatly enhanced in a number of ways".

"For example. Small, private aircraft usually have what is known as a 'Yoke' (a kind of steering wheel) to control the aircrafts movement through the air, and you can actually buy a similar control to fit to your computer table....connecting via the USB socket. These respond with the actual 'feel' that you get when flying the real thing. Add foot pedals and you have the usual set of aircraft controls at your fingertips".

"But that's not all".

"Sitting at home the other evening, I opened my FlightSim program and then added two additional enhancements: 3-D.....yes, wearing the incredible Shutter Glasses you can then 'see' the distance between you and the ground...and a wonderful piece of gear known as 'TrackIR'. Using the latter with the program in Virtual Reality mode is, to excuse the phrase, an 'eye-opener'. With TrackIR you can actually look around the inside of the plane as you would in real life. And on this particular evening I did a bit of night flying - and with the above combination - this has just got to be about the most realistic experience of flying ever (other than in a real aircraft)....and all on your home computer!"

"Interested?"

"Well, Natural Point, the manufacturer's of 'TrackIR' have kindly given me two sets of their 'TrackIR outfits to award as prizes in one of our forthcoming super 'AV CONCEPTS' competitions. I'll tell you about it in our next issue, but in the meantime, if you'd like to know more about this fantastic product, and can't wait, log on to:

http://www.naturalpoint.com/trackir/
and see a demonstration video of how it works".
"So there you have it. A realism not previously thought possible, is now readily available to anyone who cares to invest in te equpment. Think about it and enjoy".

Tony

Editor: 'AV CONCEPTS'

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/

p.s. Aircraft Yokes (yes that is a 'Y' and not a 'J') are available from RC SIMULATIONS at:http://www.rcsimulations.com/index2.html

p.p.s for information on Natural Point's 'TrackIR' and 'Shutter Glasses' mentioned in this article (to save boring you, and me time in detailing it all out now), just drop me an email or ring me on 01923 826 500

***********************************************

THINKS!"Old age is like flying through a storm. Once you are aboard, there's nothing you can do." - Golda Meir

************************************************

ANALOG or DIGITAL - the debate Pt 2

************************************************

But first, here's a readers response. Apropos to Part One, Harold Gough writes:

"Hi Tony,

I disagree about glass mounted slides. I have tried projecting with and without glass and find little advantage to glass. However, I have a Tamron projector lens which copes well with emulsion which is not entirely flat. Much depends on the curved/flat field characterisitics of the way the lens focuses on the slide. My lens also has some anti-keystoning built into the design. Investment in the right lens can do away with all that glass and expense".

Harold Gough

Editors reply: "However, 20 years experience both in using and selling slide mounts (and projectors) has proved to me conclusively that glass mounting is essential for professional work. This is especially important where the program runs day in and day out on a specific location and requires 100% line up accuracy from 9 to 12 projectors! However, Harold is probably correct if you're only using two projection machines and have constant personal control over the equiment".

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

AND NOW ON TO PART TWO: THE DIGITAL ARGUMENT.

Digital Audiovisual using Digital Projectors "Utilising digital technology opens up completely new perspectives for the design of digital shows. It allows you to overlap picture elements with useful programs such as Transparency control, or integrate video sequences; using, for example, the Stumpfl Video Edit Module".

"All the restrictions of slide projectors no longer apply. One video projector can be capable of replacing any number of slide projectors and can project an image field with the accuracy of one pixel. What's more, for presentation purposes the only other playback device required is a computer. Any other units become superfluous".

"Video projectors usually feature a very bright picture. In fact they can be many times as bright as that of a slide projector. This allows projection of larger images which, in turn, lets you work in more ambient light conditions".

"What's more, digital image editing is not only less time-consuming, it also means that you can pursue creative ideas virtually without limitation. And through all of this you know that absolute image flatness can be guaranteed".

"There is, of course a very high rate of innovation in today's presentation technology. Hopelfully this will result in an ever- improving quality of presentations. Fortunately for all of us it is possible to take full advantage of this by adopting Stumpfl's Wings Platinum as the basis of your audiovisual work as this allows upgrading".

However, all is not entirely rosy in the garden!

"Picture quality is currently limited by the computer and video projector performance. Whatever you may have heard to the contrary, resolution, contrast and colour rendering do not yet come up to the quality of transparencies. That's not to say that modern devices don't already achieve quite impressive results over and above DVD standards".

"Unfortunately, affordable digital projectors are usually equipped with a permanently installed, lens roughly corresponding to a 90 mm lens on a 35 mm slide projector. Additional, interchangeable lenses for adjusting picture width and projection distance are only available for very pricey professional units".

"Finally, like all of today's electronic equipment (mostly, but not always due to the high rate of innovation) computers, digital cameras and projectors do not hold their value! This means that upgrading the equipment becomes an expensive business".

"So, there you have it. I await your comments with interest. Send them to me at:
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
Tony"

p.s. Stumpfl's latest WINGS-3 program is available from The Widescreen Centre, as are JVC video projectors, Braun, Simda and Kindermann slide projectors. Email Simon at:mailto:simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk

p.p.s The whole of the GePe range of slide mounts can be had from BenKatie-Trading by going to:http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/gepe.phpYou can also download a pdf of the complete GePe slide catalogue.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THINKS!"I sometimes think that God, in creating man, rather overestimated His ability" - Oscar Wilde.

___________________________________

************************************************

SOPHIE'S BLOGS OF WISDOM

***************************************************

Says Sophie: "If there's one thing that this year will be remembered for it'll be the year when Blogging became truly mainstream. No longer the preserve of a few spotty geeks drinking coke and eating pizzas (largely in place of social life), blogging or weB Logging - as it's properly known, has become BIG business".

"In fact, nowadays, no self-respecting organization can afford to be without a BLOG or two and the aim is always to build up a following that creates the potential to expand their market place (the BBC being a very obvious and visible exponent of this trend). But, as so often happens in the world of computers, once again...it's the amateurs who are the real pros! That's because 'Blogs' are also being used by a growing band of savvy individuals who have worked out how to make some serious cash by creating a Blog that really gets read. Then introduces products and recommendations into the mix and , VOILA!, easy!"

"So" continues Sophie "with that said, my friends at the 'How To' have introduced a new product to their ever-expanding range and there are no prizes for guessing the content that lies behind their latest toolkit...which shows you how can you translate blogging into cash?"

"It tells you how to make the most of the space on your Blog; either directly or through Google Adsense, but usually through simply giving a gentle mention of a product or service that you enjoy and have used. It's promotion via recommendation. Gentle, subtle and smooth! And such is the fierce loyalty created by the best Blogs that readers quite often hang on every last word that the blogger posts. In fact it's the latest way to become a household name (even a guru) and it's generating some lovely cash for those in the "know" right now!"

"So here's your opportunity to start cashing in on this emerging trend by becoming a 'bloggerneur' (where on earth did that word come from?). Just imagine how it would feel to have readers from around the world regularly checking in to find out what you've been up to and what you have had to say about the world around you. Oh, and imagine starting to generate telephone like numbers for your own bank account. Well you can find out more about it by going to:
http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=14

Need I say more?"

Sophie

p.s. Want to know more about writing newsletters that really make your readers sit up and take notice? Or maybe you edit a club or firms publication and have run out of ideas? Give yourself a break, take a look at:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1
==============================================================*********************************************************COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone's new book '3D COMPUTER GAMING'

*********************************************************

WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

================

101 BUSINESS TOOLS - the book they're all talking about. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache - get this toolkit first by going to

:http://www.101BusinessTools.com

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100's of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be 'stuck for copy'! Go visit:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1

TOOLKIT EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=40

'CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT'

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=30

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=42

AVG - THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION program...EVER! And I'm not kidding you because I've now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to: http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&amp;afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

HOW TO BLOG FOR CASH

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=14

=======================================================

AVOIDING THAT "where did I see that mentioned?" SYNDROME!

Enjoy reading 'AV CONCEPTS'? Spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? All they hve to do is to send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com
...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier?

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
keep a note of it for future reference

=======================================================

That's it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.
Tony

Tony Shapps

Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'

Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

-----------------------------------------------------------------

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W

===============================================================

COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3

==============================================================

POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information.

Analog or digital?

2007-03-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

ANALOG or DIGITAL - the debate!
'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 6 {!date dayname+0} {!date long+0}

************************************************************************
Featuring MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, VIRTUAL REALITY, FLIGHT SIMULATION, , METAL
DETECTORS, & IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more
**************************************************

============THIS ISSUE:============

* ANALOG or DIGITAL - the debate! Part 1.

* THINKS!* SOPHIES WORDS OF WISDOM - Making a Great Movie

* THINKS

* NISHIKA 3D CAMERA COMPETITION - the winner.

* THINKS!

* HISTORICALLY YOURS with Jack Grossman

* THINKS!* COMING SHORTLY* HTML - solved

* AND FINALLY* WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

* AVOID THAT SYNDROME

* COMING SOON

________________________________

*************************************************

ANALOG or DIGITAL - the debate! Part One - The case for Analog.

*************************************************

Tony Says: "When it comes to technology, these days absolutely nothing stands still. You think that you have just purchased the very latest bit of equipment, gone over to the fastest-growing Technique when, BAM! a totally new approach suddenly appears".

Analog Audio Visiual using slide projectors

"And nowhere is this more apparant than in technology used for the purposes of presentation. This is undergoing incredibly fast changes with digital projection now being touted as the ultimate replacement for slide projection. So it is very important that you fully understand the essential differences if, and when, you make any decision to either update or change your current EquIpment".

So, for this first part" continues Tony " let's take a look at the positive advantages of sticking with slide presentation. i feel that this breaks down into the following. There's absolutely no doubt that a slide still provides for unachieveable picture quality in terms of sharpness, colour fidelity and brilliance – all of which are important factors for producing a proper sensual effect on the
retina of the eye during projection".

What's more, slides are a universal information carrier, which can easily be sorted with normal human eyes by simply using a lightbox, and then evaluating with a magnifying glass. Once mounted the slides can be sorted into trays and promptly projected in their full, crisp, naturally glorious colours. You also have the advanteg of being able to adjust picture width and projection distance, using the wide selection of projector lenses which are usually compatible with most of the currently available slide projectors. are available, which are frequently compatible with other projectors types. In fact, there are only three barrel diameters used by manufacturers - 41.9mm, 42mm and 52mm. the 41.9mm lenses can often be fitted into the slightly larger 42mm (and I've even fitted the a 42mm lens into a 41.9 sleeve!!!)".

"Once you have the slides in your projector you have the ability to vary the brightness control for the lamps which, in turn, allows for very soft and smooth visual dissolves. Perhaps, most important of all, slide projectors and their attendant control units - like those supplied by the well-known Austrian firm of Stumpfl - are well-tried, tested, and trusted offering an extremely high and stable working environment....unlike some digital equipment where you are unwittingly being used to test out the manufacturers 'Beta' version! Razor sharpness is taken for granted. But to be fair, slides should be mounted in glass frames, which is more costly, and is certainly time-consuming; it also means that they require meticulous attention over the years in order to prevent dust collecting on
the glass surfaces. In areas where there might be high humidity, condensation can form while projecting glass mounted slides, which occasionally may be show up on the screen in the form of dark clouds".

"Some special effects need three or more projectors, which gives you certain problems in lining-up each of these machines. This means that pin-register slide mounts, perspective control lenses and adjustable projector stands are all part of the projectionist's required armoury. However, once you have made the investment, the equipment will usually soldier on for years (not something you can usually expect of electronic equipment....as have discovered to my cost).

NEXT ISSUE: Part Two - Digital Audiovisual working with digital projectors

Tony

Tony Shapps

Editor:'A-V CONCEPTS'

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/

mailto: tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THINKS!

Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoetnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a tatol mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. ____________________________________________
*************************************************

Sophie's Words Of Wisdom - ON MAKING A GREAT MOVIE

*************************************************

Says Sophie: "These days technique is often hailed as the be all and end all of film making, so that if you have a good idea for a film, getting it on to celluloid (tape, DVD or whatever) - they say - should be a doddle! You know what I mean, loads of special effects, technical wizadry to blind the uninitiated. But the real truth is that all these gimmicks can look good, but a poor script is
still a poor script and will effectively kill most movies with the paying audiences".

"What brought this up was the fact that I was reviewing the famous Ivan Watson book SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING the other day and wondered if the present generation really knew and appreciated just what is really involved in making a film go with a 'zing' so
that audiences sit up and take notice?".

"Of course, Uncle Ivan (as he was affectionately known) not only knew how to do this but could also explain it to all and sundry how THEY would be able to achieve first-class results, even with the simplest of equipment. His book, still available for download on the net, shows you succinctly how to create a great script and how to translate this on to a screen...of whatever shape or size".

"He also understood such mundane things as camera angles, lighting and sound so that his book is very definately a complete Manual of Film Making. If you want to make your movies hit home, take a leaf from Ivan's book (or better still download the whole book) and you'll never again end up wondering 'what shall I film' because you will know"

"Interestingly, I've spotted something very similar to this Handbook, which was then turned into a Campus Film Course, and which set you back some thousands of dollars. What's more, were you to ask a top feature film producer to set up such a course, professionally, you'd expect to be charged in the region of US $50,000.00 to US $100,000.00 (not including royalties). So how
much is this superb book? Well, you'll be astounded to learn that it's just U.S.$ 24.95 (or about GBP 12.50) if you use the download it from

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=42

and that's just got to be an all-time bargain. So you can go on making your movies as you have until today, or really make your audiences sit up and take notice with the assistance of Ivan Watson (there's no need to tell anyone how you've suddenly become a movie whiz kid, only you will know)..And that's my tip for this issue.Yours, as everSophie.p.s. Want to know more about ONLINE SELLING? Take a look at

http://ww w.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=54

*****************************************************************

THINKS!

All computers wait at the same speed
*************************************************

NISHIKA 3-D CAMERA - Competition Results

*************************************************
Firstly, let me give you the answers:

QUESTION NUMBER ONE: True of false? I have a grandson whose name is A/. Noa, or B/. Frederick, or C/. Clive?

It's actually NOA. Now nearly 3 years old, he can be the Devil incarnate if you don't keep an eye on him. So far he has re-programmed our washing machine, emptied my pencil shapener all over our carpet, and we just stopped him 'biro'-ing our good dining room table!

QUESTION NUMBER TWO: True of false? My personal sport is Table Tennis and I play in A/. One League, or B/. Two Leagues, or C/. Three Leagues, on a regular basis?

I play in two Leagues, the Wembley & Harrow, and the Watford League.

QUESTION NUMBER THREE: True of false? Jack Grossman is A/. A friend of long-standing, or B/. my brother-in-law, or C/. my father-in-law?

Jack? He's the best brother-in-law I've ever had (he's actually the only one, come to think of it).

Tie-breaker? Well I have to tell you that there was nly one person who got it right so there was no need for the tie-breaker in the end, but I did like some of them you'll understand why if you read them). For example: " I read 'AV CONCEPTS' Because I feel that you are writing to me personally about my favourite subjects" Or what about: "I read AV Concepts because it's clear, concise and Tony's wicked sense of humour keeps it interesting, informative and bang up to date!"

Oh yes, and the winner? A gentleman from New Zealand by the name of Martin who got all three correct. what's more he followed the rules of the game by giving me his postal address - presumeably on the assumption that he would win. the Nishika 3D camera, Dedicated Flashgun and a copy of 3D COMBINE will be winging their way across the globe by the end of next week Well done Martin and thanhs to all of you who 'had a go'. Stay with me, I have a nice new competition coming up in the issue after next.

Tony

TONY SHAPPS

Editor: AV CONCEPTS

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com
p.s. Talking of '3D COMBINE', don't forget that a free 21-day trial copy is available for the asking: email Jack for your copy at

mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk

==============================================

THINKS!!!

BETA. Software undergoes beta testing shortly before it's released. Beta is Latin for "still doesn't work."

==============================================

***************************

Jack Grossman says: HISTORICALLY YOURS

***************************

Says Jack: "I'm offering a fascinating piece of history in the form of the Capuccino Quadrant. It's a beautifully crafted reproduction piece dating from the XlX century. In use it creates distorted forms or anamorphosis and was a very popular instrument during that period".

"The instrument consists of hidden figures appearing when projected on a reflecting surface, as a cylinder, cone or pyramid. Although the terminology "anamorphosis" was first used in the XVII century, Leonardo Da Vinci actually described it on his notes". "Manierism (Europe 1530-1600) was totally characterised by distorted forms. Painters showed special interest in objects distorted
by convex mirrors. In this art context, the anamorphosis took place and as a clear example, please refer "The Embassadors" (detail on the sword) by Hans Holbein". "You might find the following website of interest as you can download a free programme that lets you experiment with
anamorphosis. Click on

http://www.anamorphosis.com
or click on:
http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/astronomic.php

to purchase this exquisite novelty at just GBP 33.99 it's a great talking point in any household.

Yours

Jack
p.s. Reminder. Trout Fishing is one of my hobbies and I'm currently working on a book about this. I'm always happy to answer questions about this.my other, hobby

.==============================================================

THINKS!!!

A man and his wife are sitting in the living room and he says to her: "Just so you know, I never want to live in a vegetative state
dependent on some machine. If that ever happens, just pull the plug." His wife gets up and unplugs the TV. =========================================================================*********************************************************COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone’s new book ‘3D COMPUTER GAMING

’*********************************************************

HTML OR PLAIN TEXT - solved!
'AV CONCEPTS' is availble in both plain text and HTML. It should open automatically in one or the other, depending on your computer.

*********************************

==============

AND FINALLY...

===============

Computers make very fast, very accurate mistakes.

*****************************************************

================

WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

================

101 BUSINESS TOOLS - the book they're all talking about. Your guide to business success. Save yourself heartache - get this toolkit first by going to:

http://www.101BusinessTools.com

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100’s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should
ever again be ‘stuck for copy’! Go visit:

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIT

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=40

‘CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT’

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=30

SUCCESSFUL MOVIE MAKING by Ivan Watson

http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=42

AVG – THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION PROGRAMME...EVER! And I’m not kidding you because I’ve now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to:
http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

=======================================================

AVOID THAT “where did I see that mentioned?” SYNDROME!

If you enjoy reading ‘AV CONCEPTS’, spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? Simply send a blank email to:mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier. Remember that current and back issues of ‘AV CONCEPTS’ are available to read on my ‘blogger’ page. I’m offering this service because I think you’ll find lots of useful information in each issue but, if you’re like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that “where did I see that mentioned?” syndrome - well, now you’ll know where to find it. You can find it at:
http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
keep a note of it for future reference.

=======================================================

That’s it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.
Tony

Tony Shapps

Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

-----------------------------------------------------------------

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W

===============================================================

COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3

==============================================================

POSTSCRIPT: Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information.

2007-03-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

WIN A 3D CAMERA
'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 5 {!date dayname+0} {!date long+0} ********************************************************************
Featuring 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, VIRTUAL REALITY, FLIGHT SIMULATION, COMPUTER-DRIVEN MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, METAL DETECTORS, & IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more
**************************************************

THIS ISSUE:

============

* MAKING A BUSINESS OF IT - Sophie's Words of Wisdom

* THINKS!

* WIN A NISHIKA 3D CAMERA - free competition

* THINKS!

* FLY ME TO THE SKY - Jack tells you how

* THINKS!

* ALSO COMING SHORTLY

* THINKS

* HTML OR PLAIN TEXT - solved

* AND FINALLY * WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

* AVOID THAT SYNDROME * COMING SOON _________________________________ *************************************************

MAKING A BUSINESS OF IT - Sophie's Words Of Wisdom *************************************************

Says Sophie: "Have you ever thought of starting your own business? Maybe the idea has been rumbling around in your brain for some time, but you're not quite certain where to start. Or perhaps you have recently started a business and arrived at that impasse where you are looking for some help, some ideas, some direction?"

"Well" continues Sophie "I've discovered the perfect answer to your problems, and one that could actually save you many dollars or pounds when you most need that saving. It is in the form of what , in internet language, is known as a Working Toolkit. This usually consists of several parts, maybe an instuctional book and an additional portfolio covering the subjects on which you're searching for advice. And the one that I have in mind comes from that powerhouse of an internet company 'The HowTo Corporation'. In fact, this time I think that they are on to a real winner in their 'get-you-started-in-business' kit called: '101BusinessTools'."

"Amongst other things, it contains literally '101 Essential Business Hints & Tips' on running your business. It comes in the form of 123-page, dowloadable, book that contains the very essential informative (hence its title) and lots of helpful stuff based on long experience. In fact, written by Beryl Grossman, it encapsulates 35 years of business experience in running her own business. And, let's face it, you have a choice of struggling through day by day for the rest of your life, never really breaking through to the big time. Or you can take a leaf out this toolkit and start employing the techniques that took Ms Grossman half a lifetime in business to discover".

"You may ask yourself 'Will this great resource really apply to me?' Yes! No matter what kind of business you're in '101 Essential Hints and Tips' has been written with you in mind. Whether you are an Accountancy Company, Advertising Agency, Advertising Design Studio, Agricultural Small Holding, Beauty Salon, Beauty Training College, Builders Merchant, Car Maintenance Garage,Car Sales, Career Bureau, Children's Nursery, Cleaning Service, Curtain Making, Custom Made Carpentry, Design Studio, Dress Making, Engineering factory, Fast Food Takeaway, Film Making Company, Financial Advisory service, Franchising Business, Garden Blind manufacturer, Gardening Centre, to name but a few - plus every other kind of business, the catalogue is endless!"

"The above list, you'll have realised, is absolutely nowhere near exhaustive...you see the truth is that it just doesn't matter what kind of business you are in, '101 Essential Hints and Tips' can, and will, help".

"It's not often I wax so lyrical about a product, but I think that 'The HowTo Corporation' have really 'got it made' with this one. But, as they are wont to say in adverts, don't take my word for it, go read about it and pick up a copy at:

http://www.101businesstools.com/

and see for yourself."
Yours, as ever Sophie. p.s. Want to know more about ONLINE SELLING? Take a look at http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=54 ___________________________________________ ************************************************************

THINKS!

"Don't offer me advice; give me money" - Spanish Proverb _________________________________ *************************************************

WIN A NISHIKA 3-D CAMERA - presenting the Great Tony Shapps Give-Away Camera Competition

Tony says: "Lateral thinking is a useful adjunct to anyone's armoury, and when the Nishika 3-D Camera came into my hands I looked at it, initially, and thought 'What a shame it's so difficult to get those lenticulated prints made anymore'. But then a thought struck me after reading Sophie's WORDS OF WISDOM in the last issue of AV CONCEPTS where she spoke about that excellent program (or programme, if you prefer)known as 3D COMBINE".

"What was that thought?"

"Well, let's put it this way. The camera in question sports four lenses which give you a choice of image separation. This means that you can use the two inner lenses for reasonable close up work, whilst the two outer lenses can serve for normal view. Now, apply this knowledge to that 3D COMBINE program and you can create stereo prints to view on screen or print out as anaglyph (red/blue) images. In fact it will allow you to produce a great variety of images in a number of different ways. But probably most important of all is that you can photograph moving images (which is not possible with a single lens camera as explained in our last issue). The model on offer as the prize is complete with a its oroginal dedicated Flashgun and Simulated Leather Ever-Ready Case. Need I say more?"

"So, on with the competition. All you have to do is to answer the following three questions, complete the tie-breaker and then eMail them to me by next Friday:

QUESTION NUMBER ONE: True of false? I have a grandson whose name is A/. Noa, or B/. Frederick, or C/. Clive?

QUESTION NUMBER TWO: True of false? My personal sport is Table Tennis and I play in A/. One League, or B/. Two Leagues, or C/. Three Leagues, on a regular basis?

QUESTION NUMBER THREE: True of false? Jack Grossman, my co-writer of this publication, is A/. A friend of long-standing, or B/. my brother-in-law, or C/. my father-in-law?

Tie-breaker: I read 'AV CONCEPTS' because____________________________________(you can be as fanciful as you like on this one).

So let's hear from you".
Tony TONY SHAPPS Editor: AV CONCEPTS

mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
p.s. Talking of '3D COMBINE', don't forget that a FREE 21-day trial copy is available for the asking: email Jack for your copy at

mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk ==============================================

THINKS!!!

Why do they have Ear Piercing while you wait? Is there some shop where you can drop them off and pick them up later?

===========================================

***************************
Jack Grossman says: FLY ME TO THE SKY

***************************

Says Jack: "Tony, his youngest son, Grant, and the latters oldest son, Hadley (now about to reach 6 years old) are all keen on flying model aircraft. At the last count they had about 4 of these models which they take out to a local park when the weather is suitable. And that's not counting the ones they have 'written off' with un-repairable crashes (which is far better than smashing up the real thing, of course). I mention this because the range that they have are all electriclly-powered by tiny micro-motors; this being one of the major developments in model flying craft over the past 10 years".

"In spite of their very small size, these micro-motors pack a real punch when it comes to powering models and, what's more, you are no longer restricted to a single engined aircraft. Using a polystyrene-type of material for its constructions, there is now on offer the E-Z AIR TRAINER which is an ideal introduction to flying Radio Controlled Aeroplanes. This is a tmodel that comes complete with it's twin Electric Motors and Radio Contol equipment already installed It's ready to fly within minutes of opening the box!. Charging times are incredibly short, whilst flight durations are longer than yoiu would think possible. And each kit Includes Wireless Remote Controler, Flight Battery with Integral Charger. With its 18" (450mm) Wingspan you don't need a van to carry it to location".

"When I was small, owning a radio-controlled model was just a pipe dream (as tey used to say before smoking was banned) as they used to cost well over GBP 100-00 and that was plus the cost of all the control gear. Now anyone, from ages 6-76 years, can fly one of these models for the really astonishing, all-inclusive, low price of just GBP 44-95".

"There's a full range of these aircraft - including a Stealth Bomber - available from:
http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/radiocontrol.php
check it out now and see if you don't find it fascinating. Have some fun, pretend you're buying one for a nephew or grandchild!"

Yours Jack 'Still holding up his end in Nottingham'.
p.s. Trout Fishing is one of my hobbies and I'm currently working on a book about this, my other, hobby.

============================================================== THINKS!!! You know that little indestructible black box that is used on planes, why can't they make the whole plane out of the same substance? ==================================================================== *********************************************************

COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stone's new book '3D COMPUTER GAMING' ************************************

THINKS!

How come wrong numbers are never busy? ********************************************* =======================================

HTML OR PLAIN TEXT - solved!
Reminder note from your Editor: "Just over 18 months ago, when I was still editing the old 'SIGHT'N SOUND', I asked my readers in which format did they prefer to receive the publications. The choice being either Plain Text or HTML. The answer was almost a 50/50 split between the two, with a slight bias towards plain text".

"However, technology moves on, and as from the last issue of 'AV CONCEPTS' it is now available in both formats, and should automatically appear in whichever one is the most suitable for you. How's that for service".

!!!Remember to take your chance to win a pristine state NISHIKA 3D CAMERA with Flash and Case!!!

==============

AND FINALLY...

A program is never finished until the programmer dies *****************************************************

WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!

101 BUSINESS TOOLS...our featured link. Save yourself a heartache - get this toolkit first by going to: http://www.101BusinessTools.com

WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.: How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100's of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be 'stuck for copy'! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIT http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=40

'CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIT' http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=30

AVG - THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION PROGRAMME...EVER! And I'm not kidding you because I've now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to: http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1
=======================================================

AVOID THAT "where did I see that mentioned?" SYNDROME!

==================================================
If you enjoy reading 'AV CONCEPTS', spread the good news; introduce a friend to my newsletter? Simply send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com

...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier.

As you will have noticed, many of the products mentioned in articles should be available by mail-order directly from: http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/ Or The Widescreen Centre at: http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk/ ==========================================================

That's it for this issue. Any questions? Drop me a line.
Tony Tony Shapps Editor: 'A-V CONCEPTS' Your regular information publication - mail me anytime. mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk

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http://secure.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W =============================================================== COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3 ============================================================== POSTSCRIPT:

Australian Widescreen Association, and their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. I have delayed this report because I am hoping for additional information.

2007-03-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

WHAT TO DO WITH DIGITAL!
'AV CONCEPTS': issue Number 4 ************************************************************************
Featuring 3D, ONLINE MARKETING, VIRTUAL REALITY, FLIGHT SIMULATION, COMPUTER-DRIVEN MULTIPLE SCREEN AUDIOVISUAL, METAL DETECTORS, & IMAGING IN ALL ITS FORMS, ANTIQUE ASTRONOMY REVIEWED, and lots, lots, more
***************************************************************
============
THIS ISSUE:
============
* THE MALTESE EXPERIENCE - a-Stumpfling we will go.
* THINKS!
* HOW TO MAKE YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA GO FURTHER - or Braun Free!
* THINKS!
* COMING SHORTLY.
* DIGITAL 3-D AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - Sophies Words Of Wisdom
* THINKS!
* ALSO COMING SHORTLY
* WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!
* TELL A FRIEND
* COMING SOON
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=========================
THE MALTESE EXPERIENCE - and how to Stumpfl with ease!=========================

Says Tony: "It's roughly 32 years since I first visited Malta, and about 5 years since my last visit; so when the ETTA (English Table Tennis Association) passed on details of a forthcoming International Veterans Table Tennis tournament my curiosity was aroused".

"Past readers of SIGHT'N SOUND may recall that I have a long-standing, and abiding, interest in this indoor sport. This was basically because, as a youngster, I took one look at the English weather and decided that I'd rather remain under cover than sloshing about in the rain and muck of a Saturday afternoon! But, of course, like all sports, it became an obsession with me, and so, with the encouragement of my wife, Beryl, I decided to enter the tournament and go to Malta".

"The rest is history, as they say, and in my case this consisted of a swift exit in the first round of both the Singles and Doubles! But I did meet a delightful bunch of people led by Jo Borg who is President of the Malta Table Tennis Association. Their hospitality and organisation of the event was excellent using 12 tables in continuous play".

...AND THE EXPERIENCE?

"Well, the hotel laid on tours of the island, and one of these took in a great Audio-Visual Show called 'THE MALTESE EXPERIENCE'. This utilised 'umpteen' (I could count at least nine, but there were more) projectors to recreate 7000 years of history. A fantasticlly wide screen enhanced the image....my guess is that it was around 13-metres in width (or about 43ft in real money) and made full use of this magnificent panoramic format".

"In the olden days, like about 12 years ago, this sort of presentation was beyond the reach of the likes of you and me both, but these days (with advanced electronics) it has become quite practical to produce shows of this nature even in the home - although, perhaps, a smaller screen might be required. Also it has become even easier with the arrival of such things as DLP Video Projectors, reducing the number of machines required to arrive at the same visual result. Our good friends at Stumpfl (pronounced phonetically as 'S-T-OOMP-FUL') have just come up with the new version WINGS-3 version of their controlling programme. This is just about the most advanced multidisplay production and presentation system available anywhere, and is acknowledged, world over, for its great performance. It offers you cutting edge functions for producing the most spectacular shows, and astonishing presentations. Its strength is in full media integration".

"Just about anything that can be presented in some way, can be arranged, edited, controlled and presented very smoothly. What's more Wings-3 offers a simple and intuitive operation a benefit for all users in producing these impressive shows. It has new features focusing on even greater simplicity in show production and live interactive applications. A redesigned user interface comes with a new keyframe editor and a powerful on-screen editing tool. This allows the user to concentrate on visual content".

"And the good news is that it's all available to you from the London-based Widescreen Centre (just off Baker Street, in case you've missed them in the past). Just tell Simon what you want to achieve and he'll let you know how WINGS-3 can meet your needs. Simply eMail your interest to:
mailto:simon@widescreen-centre.co.uk
Need I say more?"

TonyTONY SHAPPS
Editor: AV CONCEPTS
mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
p.s. Want to 'gen up' on more Stumpfl products? Just click on
http://www.stumpfl.com/

STOP PRESS: I've just heard fropm Jo Borg that The Malta Table Tennis Association is organising their 1st International Table Tennis Training Camp for boys/Girls aged 10/13 and 14/18. Entry forms availalble, and can be downloaded from:
mailto:jborgcardona@mtta.net
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THINKS!!!"Don't stay long when the husband is not at home" Japanese Proverb
****************************************************
==============================================
Jack Grossman tells you
HOW TO MAKE YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA GO FURTHER - or Braun Free!==============================================
Reports Jack: "Most of the people I know who own digital cameras are very lax about printing out the images (I number myself amongst these, incidentally) but when I last saw Tony he showed me the new Braun DigiFrame dissolving picture frame intended for showing all those nice pictures you might have taken".

"He asked me to help him to carry out a test on this new piece of equipment whilst I was there. So this became a joint effort. At first sight it looks just like your standard picture frame that would be on any mantlepiece to display family photos, but its secret lies within the 7-inch (incidentally, 7-inches equals 17.78 centimeters....not a lot of people know that!) wide LCD screen; this gives you a choce of 16:9 format or 4:3 format via a lightweight, remote control. The latter is not much larger than a credit card, but offers you a whole range of facilities. These include an impressive number of slots to take different digital cards directly from your camera".

It will also accept audio and video inputs because it is, in fact, also a miniature Monitor Screen".

"But that's no all. You can rotate, zoom, pan, change the duration and transition type between each picture. Additionally it supports Jpegs, Motion Jpegs, AVI and Mp3 files. It comes complete with a mains adapter and video & audio leads. It is simple to set up, easy to use, and you can change the displayed images simply by switching cards in the multiple input slots".

"Tony and I fed it with the digital cards from both an Olympus camera - XD, and Compact Flash Card - and others from a Casio camera. It made no difference, immediately coping with each of them. It also accepts wither PAL or NTSC video feeds. The imaging LCD is housed within a wide black border which enhances the look of each and every picture. Most important of all, it performed to both our satisfaction, and we were able to demonstrate this to a family gathering who were most impressed, coming up with comments like: 'Why have you not shown us these pictures before', 'What a great way to see you digital photos', and 'Can I have one for my next birthday?' Nuff said! You can see we were all impressed".

"This piece of advanced technology is currently available from our old firm, The Widescreen Centre, so why not check it out at:
http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk

and see for yourself?

Jack
'Still holding up his end in Nottingham'.

p.s. There's some great things on the BenKatie site; from metal detectors (mentioned in the last issue) to incredibly versatile radio-controlled models. I like the ones that look like a Piper Cub, but there are others. You can put the latter together in about 10-minutes. Take a look athttp://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk
and have some fun, pretend you're buying one for a nephew or grandchild!"
==============================================================
THINKS!!!
"God could not be everywhere and therefore he made mothers" Jewish Proverb
================================================================================ *********************************************************
COMING SHORTLY: Rufus Stones new book 3D COMPUTER GAMING
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=========================
Sophie's WORDS OF WISDOM - Digital 3D At Your Fingertips!=========================
Sophie says: "FREE is an emotive word in advertising, but in this issue of 'AV CONCEPTS' I'm using it because I think it's time that all our readers increased their horizons when using their spanking new Digital Cameras".

"So, what am I talking about?"

"I'm offering you the opportunity to shoot in 3D with ANY digital camera. Surely an offer you cannot refuse? So how's it done? A question that you'll probably ask. Well, do you remember a Bob Hope film called 'Paleface' i.e. where he was told to lean to the left or lean to the right? That's how you do it with a digital camera. Stand with feat apart, line up your subject in that little focusing square in the middle of the viewfinder, then lean to the left (transfering the weight on to your left foot) and take a photo. Now repeat this - again lining up the same subect in your finder - but this time lean to the right. You should now have to photos which are slightly displaced to represent the images seen by your left and right eyes".

"Now, here's where the clever part comes in. I'm offering you a FREE (that word again) 21-day trial version CD of a miraculous program known as '3D COMBINE' which will allow you to combine those two images in a number of ways to produce true, in-depth images. You can then view the subsequent images in a number of ways. On screen, with a pari of red/green or red/cyan cheap card glasses (a system known as 'anaglyph' viewing), or you can see them in full colour using Shutter Glasses. You can also print them out as 3-D pictures to send to friends...with a pair of the red/cyan card glasses, which do retain quite a lot of the original colour content, and if you're capable of crossing your eyes you can also 'free view' in stereo!".

"I have a limited number of these 21-day Trial Test Disks and they will go to the first ten people who email me at: mailto:sales@benkatie-trading.co.ukand request your FREE copy"

Digitally Yours, as ever
Sophie"
p.s. ALSO AVAILABLE. Ask us about the latest lightweight 'LiteSpecs Shutter Glasses' to go with 3D COMBINE. Email your request:mailto:jack@benkatie-trading.co.uk
************************************
THINKS!"If three people say you are an ass, put on a bridle". Spanish Proverb
********************************************
---------------------------------------------
COMING SHORTLY: 101 Essential BUSINESS TIPS
---------------------------------------------
A full review of a remarkable new business toolkit that gives you the nitty-gritty necessary for running your own business - profitably. Its called 101 Essential BUSINESS TIPS, and it makes a great read. Written by someone who has had well over 35 years experience in running her own company. If you want to start your own firm and avoid some of the pitfalls, this toolkit will save you a fortune right from the start. If you already work for yourself, you can still benefit hugely from its content. If you cant wait for our review, take a look at it by going to:
http://www.101businesstools.com/
...and make your own judgement.
=======================================
HTML OR PLAIN TEXT - solved!
Reminder note from your Editor: Just over 18 months ago, when I was still editing the old SIGHTN SOUND, I asked my readers in which format did they prefer to receive the publications. The choice being either Plain Text or HTML. The answer was almost a 50/50 split between the two, with a slight bias towards plain text.

However, technology moves on, and as from the last issue of AV CONCEPTS it is now available in both formats, and should automatically appear in whichever one is the most suitable for you. Hows that for service?

"In passing, for those interested in 3D, I will shortly be running a competition - free to enter, of course - where the prize will be a pristine state NISHIKA 3D CAMERA...as they used to say on American radio Stay Tuned - see you next issue.
*********************************
==============
AND FINALLY..
.===============
program is never finished until the programmer dies
*****************************************************
================
WHERE TO FIND....some useful links!
================
WRITING A NEWSLETTER THE EASY WAY.:How To Write A Newsletter toolkit - features 100s of articles for your personal use on a wide range of subjects. No editor should ever again be stuck for copy! Go visit: http://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=1

EASY DOWNLOAD PROTECTOR TOOLKIThttp://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=40

CREATE AND SELL PRODUCTS ONLINE TOOLKIThttp://www.howtocorp.com/sales.php?offer=rufus&pid=30

AVG THE BEST VIRUS PROTECTION PROGRAMME...EVER! And Im not kidding you because Ive now used it for about 7 years so PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER with AVG by going to: http://www.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.avguk.com&afid=13787&tm=15&im=1

101 Essential BUSINESS TIPS - order your toolkit now!http://www.101businesstools.com

=======================================================
TELL A FRIEND - and avoid that where did I see that mentioned? syndrome
If you enjoy reading AV CONCEPTS, spread the good news about by introducing a friend to my newsletter? All they have to do is to send a blank email to:

mailto:avconcepts@aweber.com

...and I'll do the rest. What could be easier.

Remember that back issues of AV CONCEPTS are available to read on this blogger page. I'm offering this service because I think youll find lots of useful information in each issue but, if youre like me, it will not necessarily register at the time; and then you get into that where did I see that mentioned? syndrome - well, now youll know where to find it. You can find it at:

http://tonyshapps-av-concepts.blogspot.com/
keep a note of it for future reference.
=======================================================As you will have noticed, many of the products mentioned in articles should be available by mail-order directly from: http://www.benkatie-trading.co.uk/OrThe Widescreen Centre at: http://www.widescreen-centre.co.uk

==========================================================
Thats it for this issue, folks, see you next time.
TonyTony ShappsEditor: 'A-V CONCEPTS'Your regular information publication - mail me anytime.mailto:tony@shapps.myzen.co.uk
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To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?zKwcrEyMtC72dp4CzhaGDg7OdLaeXqZ2dMb2dK7W
===============================================================
COMING SOON: full report on the new Stumpfl WINGS PLATINUM-3
=============================================================
STOP PRESS! As I go to press I have just received news from the Australian Widescreen Association, about their DIGITAL VERSION of CINERAMA. Full report in next issue.