Is This Why Your Vagina Smells?

Wanda The Fish. That was the most humiliating name any chick could get labeled at my middle school. Getting chastised as "Wanda" simply meant that your vagina reeked of "Tuna Of The Sea".

Understandably, girls, myself included, would go to extensive lengths to avoid this dehumanizing stigma.

So what do you do when your stinky midsection betrays an otherwise healthy vagina? The first step is to actually make sure that your vagina is in tip-top shape.

What's a Vagina Supposed to Smell Like?

Throughout your menstrual cycle, it's normal to have a variety of vaginal discharges. Vaginal discharge can take the form of the non-fertile, viscous- and sticky-type discharge to the very fertile, slippery- and clear-type discharge that occurs close to menstruation.

Abnormal discharges are accompanied by itchiness, raunchy smells, and/ or gray-, yellow- or green-colored discharges.

The second step to restoring your vagina to health involves to ruling out the possibility of having vaginal conditions like bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection or trichomonas vaginitis.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), while more common than yeast infections, doesn't get much attention in the media.

The cause of bacterial vaginosis remains unclear but this condition is linked to sexual activity and douching. According to a University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) study, a sexually transmitted virus that infects vaginal lactobacilli may cause bacterial vaginosis.

Vaginal lactobacilli are required to maintain a healthy pH and bacterial balance within the vagina. Once this balance is disrupted by a virus, the vagina no longer has a protective barrier and is more susceptible to infection.

In the 1999 UIC study, Sylvia Pavlova, senior research specialist, and Lin Tao, associate professor of oral biology, found that viruses may cause bacterial vaginosis. Moreover bacterial vaginosis could be sexually transmitted.

If untreated, bacterial vaginosis can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal pregnancy, or, pre-term labor if you are pregnant.

Only your doctor can diagnose bacterial vaginosis. Your doctor would prescribe oral antibiotics or antibiotic vaginal inserts to treat bacterial vaginosis.

What to look and smell for:

Increased vaginal discharge. A fishy vaginal odor and white or gray milk-like discharge.

Yeast infection

If you've used antibiotics, been pregnant, have diabetes, or wear tight clothing, chances are you've experienced an overgrowth of vaginal yeast. Overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans is largely blamed for causing yeast infections.

Most women find their yeast infection treatment in over-the-counter preparations at drug stores. Other times you can find yeast infection relief by moderating your sugar intake and supplementing your diet with more foods that contain Lactobacillus (L.).

Dr. Tori Hudson, who serves a medical director of A Woman's Time, recommends that you eat foods that contain at least three of the following forms of Lactobacillus when naturally treating a yeast infection: L. acidophilus, L. fermentum. L. plantarum, L bulgaricus, L. casei, or L. rhamnosus.

While a research war still ranges over the effectiveness of Lactobacillus against combating yeast infections, women still notice improvements with their vaginal infections after supplementing their diet with this probiotic.

What to look and smell for:

Symptoms include a white cottage cheese-like discharge, itching, redness, and irritation.

Trichomonas vaginitis

Trichomonas vaginitis comes in as the third leading cause of vaginal infections.

Commonly called "hooker", I mean "trick", trichomonas vaginitis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny single-celled parasite. Like bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginitis can be transmitted through intercourse.

Your doctor would have to test you to diagnose trichomonas vaginitis. She will prescribe antibiotics as a treatment.

What to look and smell for:

Increased amount of vaginal discharge. Possible itching. Itching and redness accompanied by a yellow-green discharge.

You know what the ironic thing about this smelly vagina business is?

It is that if you get bacterial vaginosis or trichomonas vaginitis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, but after using the antibiotics, your chances of getting a vaginal yeast infection shoot up. Who designed this health scenario anyway?

Before you curse, Wanda, let me offer you these tips for vaginal health to use at you own discretion:

The vagina needs to breathe, so let it. Wear pantyhose less often. Use knee-highs or thigh-highs instead.

Wear cotton underwear instead of synthetic underwear.

Use condoms during sex. Even though the theory that sex can cause a vaginal infection remains contested, use a condom is a preventative until the infection gone.

Add one teaspoon of boric acid or a half-cup of hydrogen peroxide to two quarts of warm water. (For the boric acid to mix well you need to make sure the water is warm). Use the boric acid or hydrogen peroxide douche for two weeks and stop. The boric acid and hydrogen peroxide should increase the amount of lactic acid within the vagina. This increased amount of lactic acid within the vaginal helps restore the proper bacterial balance within the vaginal and reduces the chances of re-infection.

Eat less sugar so that you don't feed the yeast.

See a doctor if you still have doubts. The Mayo Clinic Women's "HealthSource" newsletter has cautioned women against hastily self-diagnosing vaginal problems and labeling every smelly vagina issue as a "yeast infection". This may not allows be the case.

Ok, I hope you smell better now and if in doubt, check it out.

OBD1 Codes Secrets for Domestic Vehicles

For vehicles made after 1996, retrieving the codes of the check engine light in your dash panel is simple. All you need to do is find your diagnostic connector located under the dash by the driver side. You can then hook up a scanner and the codes will be displayed for you. If you don't have any scanner like most drivers, you can bring your vehicle to any local automotive parts store and they will usually scan the codes FREE for you. However, for vehicles made on or before 1995, there is only one cheap way to get it: You do it yourself!

On board diagnostic (OBD) was designed on vehicles equipped with electronic fuel injection so you can generally retrieve the codes yourself. No need buying a scanner or running to any parts stores to check the engine light. This system is called obd1 and applies to most vehicles made before 1995 for domestics and 1993 on imports. In this article, I will discuss the methods used by domestic vehicle manufacturers on how to check the engine lights in their cars and trucks.

For GM domestic vehicles made before 1995, the diagnostic connector is located under the dash panel by the driver side. To get the check engine codes to flash in your dash panel, use a jumper wire or a paper clip and connect terminals A and B of the diagnostic connector. Turn your ignition key on with engine off and the codes should start to blink. All codes should start with code 12 which is one long flash followed by 2 short flashes. This code 12 means the diagnostic system is normal and will repeat itself continuously if there are no trouble codes. Otherwise, code 12 will flash 3 times before flashing the fault codes.

Ford owners can check their check engine light using the diagnostic connector located at the engine compartment by the fender near the battery. Getting the obd1 codes need a couple of tools: a 4 inch long gage 16 jumper wire and a 12 volt test light.
Both tools are hooked up to the diagnostic connector and when the ignition key is turned on (without starting engine) the codes will begin to flash in the test light, not in the dash panel. If there is no code, you will normally get code 11 or 111. On Fords, there are 2 test modes, the KOEO (key on engine off) and the KOER (key on engine running). Both test modes should be used to get the accurate evaluation of the stored fault codes.

Of all the 3 domestic vehicles, the easiest method to check the engine light is Chrysler products. Why? Because all you need is to turn the ignition key on and off a within 5 seconds and the codes will start to flash in the dash panel.

Counting the codes being flashed is almost the same for these 3 domestic vehicles and most of the codes can be erased or cleared by disconnecting the battery negative terminal for 1 minute and reconnect. Just make sure to check your service manual in case you have electronic equipment such as radio or clock that needs reprogramming in which battery disconnection is not recommended. Finally after performing repairs on the culprit code, always go for a road test to confirm if the problem is fixed.

If you want a detailed way on how the above procedures are done, please visit my blog: http://check-engine-light-codes.blogspot.com . This blog offers free info on how to check engine light codes with color pictures and regular repair tips so you can save money next time you see your check engine light.

Can I Retrieve Deleted Photos From My iPhone? - Get Your Lost iPhone Pictures Back!

Did you accidentally delete some important pictures of your iPhone? Are you wondering Can I retrieve deleted Photos from my iPhone? If so then you've come to the right place as in this article I will show you exactly how to retrieve deleted photos and get your lost iPhone pictures back. So continue reading below to learn more.

Now you are probably wondering how its possible to retrieve photos off your iPhone that you've already deleted. Well to give you a quick answer, your iPhones hard drive is very similar to a computer's hard drive. And just like a normal hard drive the iPhone doesn't delete media or pictures off its hard drive permanently, instead when a file is deleted its space is just listed as available and new re-usable space.

Now until that space is overwritten by new data, such as pictures, music, videos etc.. that you recently uploaded your old files and pictures are still there and can be recovered. In order to recover them you will need to grab the right tools and do so fast, because essentially you only have a small window of opportunity to get your files back.

The program you will need to download is called stellar photo recovery, it is a specific data recovery program designed to retrieve deleted photos from iPhone, digital camera's, usb cards, sd cards and many other devices. It is free to download so you can check to see if your photos are actually recoverable first.

Hence if you managed to accidentally delete some photos off your iPhone and are left wondering Can I Retrieve deleted photos from my iPhone then rest assured there are ways to get them back. Retrieving deleted photos is a task that can be carried out very easily with good photo recovery software. One particular program that will get the job done is stellar photo recovery; it is free to download so check it out below.

Wheat Grinders - Types, Prices, Usage, Recommendations

If you are anything like me, the idea of buying, let alone actually USING a wheat grinder can be pretty intimidating. I am determined to accumulate a healthy-sized food storage and wheat is going to play a big role in that. I am also a fan of the mantra "store what you eat and eat what you store". Thus it quickly became apparent to me that I needed to do some heavy duty research in order to uncover all the mysteries surrounding "wheat grinders" or "grain mills" as they are officially called. With the help of internet research, some hands on research at several neighbors' houses, and multiple failed attempts in the kitchen, I have come up with a pretty good summary of what you need to know.

Types of Wheat Grinders

Manual Wheat Grinders

Pros

Inexpensive
Can be used with no power source
Small to store

Cons

SLOW to grind (mine took 6 minutes to grind one cup of flour)
Except for the very high-end models, you cannot grind a fine flour
Inconvenient (messy and hard to fit a large bowl underneath)

KitchenAid Attachments

Pros

Less expensive than an electric grinder
Small to store
Convenient to use and then mix bread in the same machine

Cons

I have heard from multiple sources that these units will BREAK your KitchenAid mixer
Not as fast at grinding as electric grinders

Electric Wheat Grinders

Pros

Grinds very fast
Useful for many types of grains, beans, nuts, etc.
Easy to select how coarse or fine to grind, and has a large range

Cons

Fairly expensive, even for the lower-end models
Must have a generator or battery pack to use with no electricity (unless you buy a high end model that comes with a manual crank)
A large appliance to store in your kitchen

Prices of Wheat Grinders

Manual Wheat Grinders

Low: $20-30 models will not grind flour, only coarse corn meal, etc. Not very useful.
Medium: $75-$175 is a good price range. Back to Basics Grain Mill is $75. It can grind fine enough for bread flour but not for very fine cake flour. Wonder Junior is higher-priced at $169 but it can grind into cake flour.
High: Up to $400 for the Country Living Grain Mill. It is quicker than other manual grinders and is able to grind a fine cake flour.

KitchenAid Attachments

$100-120, some may be used on any stand mixer.
Electric Wheat Grinders

Low: Under $200 for grinders such as the Blendtec Grain Mill. Its drawbacks are it is very noisy and cannot do very coarse grinds.
Medium: $200-$300 can get you a great grinder. The two most popular electric grinders are the WonderMill and the NutriMill. In my tests I found the WonderMill to be faster, quieter, cleaner, and easier to store. And priced at $239 it is even cheaper than the NutriMill which is $269.
High: Over $300 is an unnecessary amount to spend in my opinion. There are heavy duty models out there but you can get the job done with the mid-range models.

How To Use Wheat Grinders

Manual Wheat Grinders

Attach wheat grinder to your counter top
Place a bowl underneath
Pour the wheat in the funnel
Turn the crank (for a LONG time)
Wheat will filter into the bowl below

Electric Wheat Grinders

Select how fine or coarse you want to grind
Turn on the machine
Pour the wheat in the top
Wait for it to grind into flour (super fast)
Turn off the machine and pull out your canister of wheat

How To Use Fresh Ground Whole Wheat

Whole wheat bread can be delicious! I have gone through a lot of recipes trying to find the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, texture, etc. for my wheat bread. Experiment with different recipes and types of wheat until you find what your family prefers. We liked using hard white wheat in a recipe that included gluten and oatmeal.
Pancakes even your kids will love! I took an IHOP corn cakes recipe and simply swapped all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and it was amazing. My kids ate 3 each at one meal. They are delicious drizzled with honey over top.
Whole wheat oatmeal cookies you can't resist. I haven't tried any of these recipes yet but several of my friends said they prefer whole wheat cookies to regular cookies. Who wouldn't want an excuse to make cookies, hey it's rotating your food storage.
Much much more. I grind up a large Tupperware full of hard white wheat flour and store it in my freezer (it retains the nutrients that way). Whenever I do any baking I replace half or all of the flour called for with my whole wheat flour. If it is as good or better I add that recipe to my food storage recipe binder. It's a great way to experiment until you find what works for you.

My Recommendations

Emergency-Only Usage

If you are planning to use your food storage and wheat grinder only if an emergency situation arises, it is not worth the expense and hassle of buying and storing an electric grinder. At a minimum you should get the Back to Basics Grain Mill but I would highly recommend splurging for the Wonder Junior.
Every-Day Usage

If you plan to "store what you eat and eat what you store" I highly recommend the WonderMill Grain Mill electric grinder. If you are not planning to find an alternative power source for an emergency situation, then eventually pick up a Back to Basics Grain Mill as well. The price of these two combined are still cheaper than high-end electric grinders that have a manual crank option, and the functionality of the WonderMill is better for frequent usage.

Apple MacBook Pro MC374LL - A Review

The Apple MacBook Pro MC374LL/A was released on April 13, 2010. In this Apple MacBook Pro MC374LL/A review, we will tell you whether it is a machine that you should consider purchasing.

First off, let's talk about the aesthetics. When you receive this new Apple MacBook in the mail as I did, you will immediately notice how solidly constructed and elegant this little machine is. Often, when you receive the laptop equivalent in a PC, you can tell it is not all created in a unified manner. MacBooks simply feel extremely well-constructed and this MacBook Pro MC374LL/A is no exception. It is a sturdy machine and you can tell this from the first touch.

But, when we purchase a laptop, aesthetics are certainly not enough. So, let's take a look under this beautiful exterior and see what this new MacBook contains.

This Apple laptop features a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor which is extremely fast for a laptop of this size. The previous model contained a 2.26 GHz processor so this machine executes a small bit faster.

The screen on this laptop, a 13.3 inch LED-backlit display with 1280-by-800 resolution, is impeccable. Many people want larger screens in their laptops but it is amazing how this 13.3 inch screen serves your needs. I did not find myself wanting more screen real estate. Plus, for my uses, I want my laptop to be extremely portable and the smaller screens make for increased portability. Since this machine comes with an HDMI type adaptor, you can always connect laptop to TV when you want a larger screen.

And for portability, we also want long battery life as we find in many of today's top rated netbooks. The MacBook Pro MC374LL/A provides just that with battery life lasting for a good 9 to 10 hours, an improvement over last years Mac and much better than many PC laptops out there, except for the ASUS laptops which achieve that and a little more.

Now, as we investigate the memory and storage of this machine, we will be left both satisfied and wanting.

The machine comes with 4GB of DDR memory which allows us to have many applications comfortably running at the same time. If we want to expand in the future (which we probably will), the MC374LL/A is expandable to 8GB.

The storage space-the size of the hard drive-is the one area we found wanting for more. With this machine, you only receive a 250GB hard drive. In today's media rich environment, this is slightly less than we need. Here, there are two options. One, we can do an upgrade of the hard drive ourselves. Or, two, we can order a large external drive which is available for less than $100.

So, how do I sum up this Apple MacBook Pro MC374LL/A review?

It's an amazing little machine that packs a lot of punch. At a current price of just over $1,100, Mac enthusiasts will certainly love this machine. However, if you are a PC person, you can get a machine with similar characteristics for about half the price.

SkyCaddie SG5 Review - The Latest Golf GPS Device From SkyGolf

Attention: NEW GADGET ALERT!!!! The new SkyCaddie SG5 Pro is now available from SkyGolf, so before I went out and threw down my hard earned cash, I borrowed one from a friend and this is my short Skycaddie SG5 review. The latest unit from Skygolf boasts a new a large color display and a long-lasting rechargeable battery (hopefully the battery better than previous versions). Along with the patented Intelligreen Technology that was also on the previous SG4, the following are features of the new SG5 Pro.

Brilliant, outdoor-readable color display with automatic backlight
IntelliGreen technology
Rugged, water-resistant case
Drop-in lithium-rechargeable battery
LED battery charging indicator
Easy to use, one-handed operation
User-selectable color themes

I currently have the SG4 and the main complaint I have is that the battery only lasts for 2 full rounds. It doesn't appear that they have upgraded the battery for the SG5, because that's about the most life I got from the battery in that unit as well. Occasionally, the SG4 & the SG5 will take a long time to connect to the satellites. Even when it's showing that there are 3 or 4 satellites in the area, it can take a hole or more for yardages to show up. Because of this, I suggest that you fire the Skycaddie up as soon as you reach the course, to give it enough time to connect, before you tee off.

Honestly, the rest of the features on the SG5 are pretty much the same as the SG4. You still get yardages to objects such as large trees, bunkers, water hazards, end of fairways etc. With the Intelligreen system, you can move the flag position over the entire green to get accurate yardages to just about any spot they can think to put the flagstick. One of my favorite features on the Skycaddies is the ability to measure shot yardages. By simply pressing the "mark" button at your current location, and then again when you reach your ball, you will get accurate distances for the shot you just hit. This is a great way to learn how far you actually hit each club, and to have fun long drive competitions with your friends.

I never knew how off I was on my distances until I got a SkyCaddie and started hunting down pins. Other than the color screen, I don't see any huge benefit of the new SG5 over the previous models. MSRP on the SG5 is $429 on the SkyCaddie website, but you can still get the SG4 in the low $300's. I highly recommend a skycaddie to golfers of all levels. It may be the best piece of golf equipment you'll buy this year. Visit SkyCaddie SG5 Reviews for more information and pricing.

Review of the Sony TDG-BR100 3D Glasses

3D technology is all the rage today. With most movie theaters offering a 3D experience, many television manufacturers are following suit. This is where the Sony TDG-BR100 comes into play. The glasses make 3D viewing that much easier. These glasses provide the user with an immersive 3D TV viewing experience. The following are some things people should know about this pair of 3D glasses before they invest in this model.

Comfortable Viewing & Precise Image

The Sony TDG-BR100 glasses are comfortable and easy to use. The model is adjustable so that adults of all sizes and ages can watch 3D television without being uncomfortable. The Sony 3D glasses are egonomic, too, so that people can get used to them. One can even wear this model while wearing eyeglasses. The wide viewing angle of the Sony TDG-BR100 makes watching television easy. Not only this, but the seamless synchronization offers people a sharp image, with stellar color accuracy and contrast.

Energy Efficient

The great thing about the Sony TDG-BR100 is that it is energy efficient. This means great things for the duration of the battery life. Additionally, the glasses offer an auto-standby feature, which gives them around 100 hours of total battery life. This means a user can get a lot of use out of these glasses before they run out of gas! One downside though is that the battery is not rechargeable and will need to be changed from time to time.

Blocks Out Distractions

The glasses are also made so that people can focus on the movie viewing experience. The design of the model blocks out room light so that the image is not distorted. This means that there will be no glare or issues when watching a particularly exciting piece of a film. Other glasses sometimes have issues adjusting to the brightness of certain scenes. This isn't the case with this Sony product. Totally enclosed, one can focus on what matters: the movie or television show playing.

Golf Carts: Checking for Bad Batteries

The battery of the electric Golf cart should often be checked and serviced in order to maintain them at their top performance. The main battery types are the 36v and 48 v battery. Here we discuss on how to check them.

Test requirements:

• Voltmeter
• Hydrometer
• Protection glasses
• Safety Gloves

First step you have to do is to charge the battery to its peak. If it has an automatic disconnection facility, leave it to charge until it is fully charged. If it does not have such a facility, follow as per the directions given in the manual.

Once it is fully charged, it is time for conducting the On-Charge Voltage Test. For this test set the voltmeter setting to 200V dc. Then plug it to the charging point again and start the test. All the battery cells have to be tested individually. Start by checking the first battery and slowly move downwards. Make sure to make a note of all the individual battery readings. Place the +ve terminal of the voltmeter on the +ve of the battery terminal and like wise connect the -ve terminals too. Now check the voltmeter reading. For a good condition battery we need a voltmeter reading of 7.0V for carts with 36V (6 x 6V battery) and a reading of 9.3V for 48V carts (6 x 8V battery).

Replace the battery if:

1) If the 36V battery does not give a reading above 7.0V and if its does not give an error correction of + or - 0.5V of the other batteries.

2) If the 48Vv battery does not give a reading above 9.3V and if its does not give an error correction of + or - 0.5V of the other batteries.

A Hydrometer test can be conducted on both the 36V as well as the 48V battery. This test is conducted without the charger plugged ON. Make sure to wear the protection devices for your safety. Remove the battery caps and connect the hydrometer terminals to the battery terminals. Check each battery individually and note down the readings. The reading should be between 1100 and 1300. (1100 being near to water and 1300 near to being acid). If you find a 50 point or more difference between the battery cells, then it is time to change your battery.

What is the Best Motorbike Battery Charger?

Let's say that you have a motorbike that you love to ride around day after day, but one day you find out that you go out there, try to start it up, but it just doesn't work. Well, what are you going to do now? What you're going to find is that your typical car battery charger isn't going to work. If you don't have a charger laying around, you're going to be out of luck!

This is why you should always prepare for a battery charger, just in case. It's always best to plan for the worst, because you never know what's going to happen in the future. By planning, you can have the charger, just in case that battery doesn't start up.

What do I look for in a battery charger?

Is it for your model? The first thing that you want to do is make sure that it works for your model. Make sure that it is a motorbike charger and not a car charger. I see people make this mistake way too often.

How long is that cord? Most of the chargers out there are going to have to plug into your wall. What you're going to find out is that some are going to pretty short. Make sure that you get a cord that is going to reach from your wall to your bike. This will allow you to avoid getting your extension cord.

What features do you want? There are some pretty cool features out there. There are some such as LED lights indicating when the battery is charged, cases, as well as automatic switches to avoid further damage if you charge too much. The more features you have, the more you're going to pay.
Some of the brands that you're going to want to look into are Battery Tender, Tecmate, Schumacher, as well as Sunforce. These are all great brands with fantastic reviews online.

Martin Yale Martin Yale 1624 Handheld Battery Operated Electric Letter Opener Product Review

Overview:

The Martin Yale 1624 is a small handheld electric letter opener designed to sit on your desk or inside your desk drawer. You can even carry it with you in your briefcase.
It is designed as a fast, easy and safe method for opening your sealed envelopes and letters.
The Martin Yale 1624 is a powerful yet inexpensive electric letter opener that is ideal for every desk within your organization.

Strengths / Features:

The Martin Yale 1624 is extremely small and lightweight. It weighs less than five ounces and measures only 5.5" x 2.375" x 1.75". It is the size of a small stapler and is designed to unobtrusively sit on a desk or in a desk drawer until it is needed.
The 1624 letter opener is powered by two AA batteries. This makes it ultra portable. You can easily take it with you in your briefcase, in your car or make it part of your mobile office. With the 1624, a letter opener never has to be more than an arms-length away.
The Martin Yale 1624 automatically detects that an envelope has been inserted and activates the cutting mechanism. However, the blades are fully enclosed helping to keep your fingers safe during the letter opening process.

Weaknesses / Limitations:

The Martin Yale 1624 is a small handheld letter opener and is designed for use in opening small volumes of envelopes and letters. It can only accept one letter or envelope at a time. This is great for opening a small stack of mail but would be extremely tedious for opening any volume of envelopes at all.
The Martin Yale 1624 uses blades to cut off the top section of each envelope. If the documents or items inside the envelopes are too close to the top they may be sliced during the opening process. For this reason, it is important to remember to jog your envelopes by tapping them on the table or a hard surface to make sure the items inside settle to the bottom. It is also important to clean up the chads that are produced by the machine when it opens items These small sections of paper can cause problems if they become jammed inside the machine.
The 1624 letter opener is designed for use with standard sized letters and envelopes. If you attempt to use it with thick or oversized items the envelopes may become jammed inside the opener during the cutting process.

Recommendation:

The Martin Yale 1624 letter opener is perfect for almost any worker that opens envelopes and letters on a regular basis.
It is small enough to fit in your desk drawer and is extremely easy to use.
However, this machine is not intended for volume applications. It only opens one letter at a time and is ideally designed for users who open less than one hundred letters per week. Users who need to process more letters than this should really consider a larger more heavy duty letter opening solution.

A Review - The Best Cordless Drill in the Market Today

Consumers now rely on the latest innovations and breaking technology in cordless drills. Compare prices and public ratings before buying one. The best units are continuously repeatedly manufactured, promoted endlessly and garner high sales in the market.

The Makita 6935FDWDEX, DEWALT DC759KA Cordless Drill, Bosch 13618, Porter-Cable 9977 and Panasonic EY6432GQKW are some of the best and most popular models in the market today.

Makita 6935FDWDEX 14.4V Cordless Impact Driver
Makita 6935FDWDEX is the best impact driver with a free 6337 MForce Drill and a ML143 cordless torch, making it very power efficient.

Features:
o 1/4" Impact Driver (0 - 3200 IPM)
o True variable speed for a smooth increase in speed and control
o Two-piece D-28R motor with dual ball bearings
o External brush feature for longer tool life
o Ergonomic rubberized pistol grip (6 3/8)
o Built-in high output LED to increase visibility
o Phosphorescent rubber bumper to help locate tool in low light areas
o Free flashlight

DEWALT DC759KA Cordless Drill
Dewalt DC759KA is one of the most powerful drills that have been completely revamped with an 18-volt motor. This provides a dual speed that weighs only 5 pounds.

It comes with two batteries and a case.

Bosch 13618-2G Brute Tough Hammer drill
Bosch 13618-2G has a blue paint scheme that is very appealing to customers. Machines are more streamlined and contoured. It is the best selling cordless drills of Bosch. Bosch has been providing great designs and excellence throughout the years. Here are some of its features:
o Reinforced collar steel
o 18-volt bluecore batteries
o Durashield construction
o Includes a magnetic bit holder, double ended bit, side handle and 30-minute charger.
o It maintains alignment between gearbox, motor and the clutch with its unibody power train.
Porter-Cable 9977 Ni-Cad 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit

The Porter-Cable Cordless Hammer Drill offers up to 420-inch pounds of torque. This is for a 14.4-volt and 2-amp hour batteries. Batteries can be changed easily and chargers charged quickly.

Porter-Cable 9977 is a good alternative, especially if one does not need a 19.2-volt tools. Big grips for men, and small grips for a women are included in the set.

Other features:
o Two-speed gear box (0-450 and 0-1400 RPM)
o Interchangeable Grip-to-Fit insert handle
o 20 positions clutch
o 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck
o 1-year warranty with a 30-day performance certificate

The box includes: a drill, a charger, two batteries, user's manual and a storage case.
Panasonic EY6432GQKW 15.6-Volt NiMH 1/2-Inch Cordless Drill/Driver Kit

Panasonic EY6432GQKW is actually rated as the best buy in leading consumer magazines. It's innovative, high-quality and reasonably priced. It is a lightweight, compact and handy. This drill is packed with a 390-inch pound torque, allowing full torque for any speed.with the help of a motor speed control. This tool is a smart-buy for most carpenters, plumbers, woodworkers and electricians.

Other features:
o 3-1/2 amp NiMH delivers a per change runtime.
o battery Amp per hour: 3.5Ah
o Dual speed ranges (0-400/0-1,300 rpm)
o Electronic brake
o Keyless chuck
o A soft-pad grip provides an extra cushion.
o 9-inches long; weight: 4.4 pounds
o The chassis measures 8-1/2 inches.
o Volts: 15.6

The drill includes a universal charger (55 minutes) and a plastic carrying case. Warranty is for 1 year.

The five cordless drills mentioned above are the most popular in the market. They have been receiving a lot of good reviews and positive feedbacks from consumers. Their bestselling features are the ergonomic grips, high speed torque, long battery life and charging time.

Toshiba Satellite M640 Review - For Performance and Entertainment

The Toshiba Satellite M640 is one of the premium laptops by Toshiba. The laptop comes with beautiful a glossy Fusion X2 Finish in Charcoal and its surface finely textured. Weighing 5.4 pounds and measuring 1.12 inch at its thinnest and 1.39 inch at its thickest, the laptop is packed with premium performance and aesthetic features. This laptop has been designed for high performance and multimedia. Some of the key features include multitasking capabilities, great graphics performance and great multimedia power.

The Toshiba Satellite M640 includes the industry leading Intel Core i3-350M Processor with the option to upgrade up to Intel Core i5-520M Processor with Turbo Boost technology so that the laptop can handle the most demanding tasks. The inclusion of Mobile Intel HD Graphics with dynamically allocated shared graphics memory and NVIDIA GeForce™ 310M with NVIDIA Optimus Technology with optional 512MB GDDR3 discrete graphics memory ensures that your 3D gaming is second to none for extend period of time thanks to the energy efficiency of the NVIDIA Optimus technology.

The system memory is configured with 3GB DDR3 expandable up to 8GB and also includes two memory slots. This is enough memory to enable you work with multiple programs faster than on lower memory laptops. It also has storage hard drive of 320GB scalable to 500GB with Hard Drive Impact D sensor which helps safeguard data on the hard drive in the event of a drop or sudden movement.

The first feature that you want on a gaming or high performance laptop is display quality in addition to the general performance. The Toshiba Satellite M640 has a 14 inch diagonal LED backlit widescreen HD TruBrite TFT LCD display with native resolution 1366x768 pixels. The screen aspect ratio is 16:9. When you want to view your favorite videos on a large screen, just connect your laptop to an HDTV, projector or any other external display through the high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port. It is a display that brings your video or game to life. How about those dull old videos? Through the Toshiba Resolution+™ DVD upconversion technology, you can improve the sharpness and color of those videos or photos thus making them look like high definition.

If you have a discount coupon from Toshiba, you will save money when you purchase the Toshiba Satellite M640 and other products. You are encouraged to apply for the coupons which are available online and start saving.

Go Green With NiMH Rechargeable Hybrid Batteries

The new NiMH rechargeable hybrid batteries have taken the market by storm. If your digicam or TV remote still runs on regular batteries, then you're definitely lagging behind in the technological world. These new Nickel-Metal Hydride are hybridone with complete charge.

They can save their charge for several months, which is not possible with the regular NiMH ones. This makes them ideal for low-drain appliances like remote controls and for high-drain gadgets like digital cameras.

It is safe to say that the creation of NiMH rechargeable with low self-discharge marks the commencement of a new era in battery-run devices. Although the battery capacity is not enormous, these rechargeable hybrid batteries have the power to retain their charge for quite a long time, extending to even a year. This quality makes them perfect for small gadgets as well as for backup power.

NiMH Rechargeable Versus Nicd And Li-Ion

NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) cells are similar to Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) cells. The NiMH battery has hydrogen-absorbing alloy for its negative electrode and not cadmium whereas NiCd cells have nickel oxyhydroxide for their positive electrodes.

NiMH one have 2-3 times more power than that of NiCd batteries with the same capacity. When you compare NiMH cells to Li-Ion cells, you will notice that both have similar volumetric energy density, but the self-discharge of NiMH batteries is higher.

What Is This Hybrid Battery?

In 2005, the market saw the launch of a new Nickel-Metal Hydride battery that featured amazingly low self-discharge. This extended the shelf life of the battery. Manufacturers of this battery used a new separator, which made it possible for the battery to save a whopping 70-85 per cent of its capacity even after a year. This happened when the battery was stored at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius.

Manufacturers introduced their new product in the market as "hybrid" or "pre-charged" or "ready-to-use" NiMH rechargeable battery packs. The design is similar to the regular NiMH batteries. They can even be charged with a standard NiMH charger. You can get these hybrid batteries from online stores as well as nearby retail stores.

Hybrid batteries are the latest fad, especially in the field of energy. The term has got a lot of attention lately because of endeavors to reduce carbon footprints, use energy efficient appliances and save the earth.

Hybrid means anything that is between traditional and the future technology. Hybrid NiMH rechargeable cells mark one step towards future technology, yet exhibit a hint of conventional battery design. This makes the battery green or environment friendly.

There is no need to worry about the cost, as these NiMH batteries are inexpensive. Besides, the performance and voltage are similar to conventional alkaline batteries of the same size. Alkaline batteries are usually 1.5 volts while NiMH batteries are 1.2 volts. During discharge, the alkaline voltage drops in due course and becomes lower than that of NiMH voltage. NiMH rechargeable hybrid batteries are capable of maintaining their voltage. This is one of the qualities that gives these hybrid cells an edge over the traditional ones.

HP Pavilion Dv6t Select Edition Review - Why This is a Top Range Notebook

Weighing five and a half pounds, the HP Pavilion dv6t Select Edition is one of the most recent notebooks that HP have introduced into the market. A number of features make this notebook a convenient and prudent buy.

For starters, the laptop has a six cell battery as the standard but the purchaser has the option of asking for a nine cell battery. The nine cell battery gives you close to eight hours of run time. This makes it ideal for field workers and people who could be away from a power source for long periods. To make it easier to connect to other gadgets and devices, the HP Pavilion dv6t Select Edition has four USB ports and also has a web camera. Other exciting additions include WiFi and the option of making the laptop Bluetooth compliant.

With this laptop, you also have the option of integrating a DVD writer. Measuring 15.6", the notebook also has a touch screen display option. Its size and weight makes it easy to carry around without being too much of a bother. There are four colors to choose from - the standard HP color is black cherry but customers have the options of champagne, red and white. This choice of colors is a plus for this laptop as many manufacturers hardly offer any variations.

Another outstanding feature of the HP Pavilion dv6t Select Edition is that it comes already loaded with MediaSmart software which enables the user to carry out various web functions including uploads and video editing among others. The PC also has Windows 7 Home Premium.

Data safety is greatly enhanced with this laptop as it has an in-built ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection whose function is to lock the hard drive and protect the data therein should the computer get dropped. Data safety is critical for some people and the safety net provided by the software adds real value to this laptop.

As with most other HP products, the HP Pavilion dv6t Select Edition is also supplied with a one-year limited warranty on hardware. Since HP also offers 24/7 support via live chat and email, obtaining assistance should the notebook break down is easy. In some circumstances, you could benefit from support from HP staff who attend to customers at home through what is known as the in-house service. For this great product, be ready to pay a substantial amount of money.

Schumacher Battery Chargers - Discount Pricing and Review

As with most battery chargers, the Schumacher battery charger is no different when it comes to people having concerns about whether or not the charger will deliver the proper charge to a battery over a long period of uses. Dependability is especially important with these battery chargers as we rely on them to get us out of a jam with our automobiles, boats or other motorized vehicles. Colder weather can be particularly more brutal on batteries and the Schumacher brand stands tall each time to assist us through the difficult times.

A typical car battery charger can take hours to charge your battery while the Schumacher will take considerably less with its patent pending technologies. This charger has a digital reading where you can select which amperage is needed for your battery; 2 amps, 6 amps and 10 amps. You can also select the type of battery that you need charged. This will ensure a better versatility, ease of use and a greater speed of the charge. Schumacher chargers have advanced circuitry and also a microprocessor to achieve the highest quality charge of any other charger.

These features monitor the voltage throughout the charging time to actually change the charging system to improve the charge. The data collected will result in lower charging times and reduce the risk of overcharging which can harm your battery in the long run.

To tell you the truth, I was actually amazed reading the research I did on the unit that I bought. It was the Schumacher SSC-1000A Ship 'N' Shore SpeedCharge Charger. For the price and features, it was perfect for what I needed it to do. Again, I was so amazed by the features this charger had, that it allowed me to relax while my car battery was recharging (my wife left the lights on all night!). Normally I would be running out every 20 minutes checking the needles' positions fearing the battery would explode.

So to conclude, if you are looking for an awesome, very dependable and well-built battery charger, the Schumacher battery charger is definitely the way to go. The only thing that I strongly recommend when deciding on a unit, is to make sure you get the one that will fit your needs even if it costs a few bucks more. This is especially true if you have more than one motorized vehicle that might need charging in the future.

AS with almost everything on the internet, the promise of low prices are everywhere. I have also done some research and have found some of the best discount pricing on the unit I bought and other available models.

Razor E100 Electric Scooter - A Comprehensive Review

The Razor E100 Electric Scooter is manufactured by Razor. This is a company that specializes in electronic toys, inlcuding scooters, for young teens. The Razor product range includes things like the the Pocket Rocket, Dirt Rockey, Pocket Mod as well as the full range of electric scooters including the E100, E200 and E300.

Razor is an award winning company and is regarded as the leading electric scooter maker. One of the interesting things you may not know about Raqzor is that it has its own exhibition team made up of kids from 9 to 20 who perform at exhibitions, competitions and shows all over the the world. It's a great performance and a superb way for Razor to show off its product range.

Tunring now to the Razor E100 Electric Scooter the fist thing to look at is the way in which it works. The electric motor is actually chain driven and this mechanism allows it to run at a high torque.

The throttle is operated by a twist style grip sitting on the handlebar. This is of course similar to the way a real motorbike works,

The E100 can produce a top speed of around 10 mph. This is an important feature because whilst this will feel fast enough to be great fun for children, the electric scooter is not travelling so fast that it could be dangerous to either the kids themeselves or other people in the vicinity. Of course a helmet is still an essential item.

So are there any downsides to the Razor E100 Electric Scooter. There have in the past been complaints about battery life for the E100. However, as I understand it Razor have addressed this and the latest version will run for a good 40 minutes continuously before needing a recharge. This length of time should mean that a child can be out on the scooter for several hours as they will not be riding all the time. It also means of course that there is enough battery to whizz over to their friends' houses and back again.

The recharge takes about 8 hours for a full recharge so it can be done overnight. The E100 also has 2 batteries included as well as all the tools you might need.

So, can the Razor E100 Electric Scooter be recommended. In my view, yes as long as it is aimed at the right age group. I think kids older than about 15 might find it all a bit tame and maybe you would not want anyone younger than about 9 riding one of these. However, for those kids just beginning the move towards their teenage years there is no doubt that its great fun and the E100 will mark their first forray into powered transport.

Apple iPod Touch 16 GB MA627LL-A Review - A New Generation Digital Media Player

The Apple iPod touch (16 GB, MA627LL/A) is the new generation iPod available in the market. It is highly popular and extremely durable. As with all Apple products, the price of this too is quite high. However, here are certain qualities for which you may want to buy the product for.

The iPod has been one that has enough space if you are a music freak. However, for some people even sixteen GB looks small. It's amazing how people keep expecting more and more.

But, this iPod has a sixteen GB memory with a capacity of holding about four thousand songs. The memory of the product is built-in and is neither expandable nor slotted. Also, the iPod touch supports a variety of audio formats.

There is the MP3, the AAC, the WAV, the MP3 VBR, the AIFF and also the Audible. The amazing thing is the MP3 speed. This particular iPod comes with sixteen to thirty two kilo bytes per second speed and has a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz.

The screen of the Apple iPod touch (16 GB, MA627LL/A) has video playing capacities and the video format supported by this iPod is MPEG4 and H.264. The bit rate is more than twenty five thousand kilo bytes per second and the maximum resolution that the product will offer you is 640x480.

Coming to things displayed on the screen of the player we will think of the most important requirements. What are the things that you need to see on the screen all the time? The battery for sure, the track playing, the playlist and obviously the time left for the current song to end. All of these things are shown very precisely on the screen of the product; and, the size of the screen? Well, it is 3.5 inches, quite large for an iPod.

The Apple iPod touch will come with a USB connector and a jack for your headphones. The charging and transferring of the iPod will both be done through the USB port. The additional features that this iPod will provide you are games, timer, an all around the world clock, address book and an upgradeable firmware.

But, the most important thing is, how much is the battery life? The battery in this product is a rechargeable lithium one and can play till 22 hours max. So, you can practically listen to songs for twenty two whole hours without stopping and without charging your mobile even once. That is exceptional for any iPod and especially since it is Apple.

The other details that you should know of are: Apple iPod touch (16 GB, MA627LL/A) can be found in 8, 16 and thirty two GB also and you can restore all of your photos, music and videos in it.

In fact more than listening to music, it will become your style statement. You can even browse the internet and connect with a Wi-Fi network through your Apple iPod. There is just the lack of call making and receiving. Other than that, this iPod is your ultimate mobile solution.

Procedures in Replacing the Battery of Polar Heart Rate Monitor

Monitors for heart rate are essential tools in the training kit of several endurance athletes. These monitors are mostly produced by Polar Company. Cyclists, runners and other athletes discovered that training through heart rate permits them to avail better utilization of their moments spent in training, and ensure that strong workouts are performed at precise intensity, while simpler workouts are not done in excess.

Heart rate monitors are composed of two important parts: the transmitter which is connected into a chest band worn by athletes that gets the heart beats through incorporated electrodes; and receiver, usually in a form of watch receiving the information and automatically displays the reading into the athlete. These two important parts require batteries in order to operate the monitor. Polar heart rate monitor is not a user-serviceable.

The following are some instructions how to replace batteries of the Polar heart rate monitors:

You have to decide if the batteries have the necessity to be replaced. In the receiver (the wrist part of the item), a sign like shaped similar to a battery appears when the battery on hand has reached the capacity of fifteen percent. There is no sign that the transmitter part of the monitor (the chest band part of the item), however, majority of the common signs of failing battery is very unpredictable and can not be obtained readouts in the receiver which can not be set by means of the position of the breast band or proper humidity of the connection of electrodes in the transmitter.

If the Heart Rate Monitors of Polar are still covered by the warranty, you just make use of your computer and produce the form connected to Additional Resources and obey the specific instructions in order to ship the monitor for service. Servicing is free of charge as long as the monitor is still covered of the warranty. It is excellent to ship the two essential part of the monitor, both the transmitter and receiver and have the two items have the free servicing simultaneously.

It is really advantageous if you buy the Polar models of heart rate monitors because they offer warranty and if your monitor is still covered by the warranty, you can just click your mouse and go to Additional Resources in "Polar, Warranty repair online form", and then follow the guidelines in order to register and ship your receiver and also the transmitter.

Marine Battery Chargers

Nothing is more frustrating (and sometimes dangerous) than a dead battery. Why risk getting caught out in the middle of the water and completely ruining your trip? Marine battery chargers can give you the confidence you need to go anywhere at anytime. Don't wait until it is too late to buy one. Marine battery chargers are very moderately priced, and you only have to use it once for it to be well worth the cost.

Be sure to shop online for battery chargers. They are the type of product that you can find excellent deals online. Just as an example, I went to the world's largest online retailer - Amazon.com - and found these fantastic deals.

The Guest 2611A Charge Pro Series Marine Battery Charger is made for harsh environments whether you are talking extreme moisture, shock, or vibration. It has a 3-stage switching electronic circuit which eliminates reverse polarity, ignition, and short-circuiting. It has double outputs of 5 amps each providing 10 amps total. The DC output has 2 cables with ring terminals that are four feet long.

What I really like about these marine battery chargers is there ability to maintain their power during storage. They don't do a whole lot of good if they aren't ready when you need them, and the maintenance mode on this Guest 2611A ensures it is ready all the time. This charger works for 12v or 24 v systems. It can be easily installed in the battery compartment of your boar or vehicle for easy access.

This Schumacher SE-1-12S charger is not quite as portable, but it can do the job just as well. It is a 1.5 amp charger with a 12 foot power cord which charges 12 volt batteries. It comes in a weatherproof case and plugs into any electrical wall outlet. It is a great charger for boats, automobiles, golf carts, and tractors.

These marine battery chargers are very convenient for keeping batteries in tip top shape without dragging out the normal chargers and cables. It may take several hours to charge a dead battery to full life so this may not be the best choice for resurrecting a battery. But this Schumacher charger is fantastic for maintaining batteries and keeping them running.

I really like this product because it has a battery monitor which allows you to leave it connected to the battery all the time and letting the charger determine when a charge is needed. This charger has been reviewed 32 times on Amazon.com, and 18 of those reviews have been 5 stars.

The final charger we will look at is one of the best portable marine battery chargers I have found. It is the MinnKota MK-105P Portable Battery Charger. MinnKota has been an industry leader for the past 75 years, and they don't make no junk if you know what I mean. This particular charger is made to for 12v batteries. You can't under-charge or over-charge with this product, and it prevents short circuits and reverse polarity. It comes with a 3-year warranty.

Customers who have purchased this MinnKota Portable battery charger rave about how long their batteries last.

Asus Mypal A636N Review

This article is s review of the Asus Mypal A636N. It is a PDA and GPS in one, and runs Windows Pocket mobile. There are other similar products but for the price and features you can't go wrong. These units have been around for a while, and the A639 has recently been released that supersedes the A636 range. The 839 is much more expensive (and DOES have some better features), but the A636N is real value for money.

Anyway, let's get to the features and specs ......

The specs are as follows:

PU Latest 416MHz Intel® XScale(TM) processor

Operating System Latest Microsoft® Windows Mobile(TM) 5.0 ( Pocket PC )

Display 3.5? Brilliant Transflective TFT LCD 65k Full-Colors, 16-bit Display QVGA, 240X320 resolution touch panel

Memory 128MB Flash ROM and 64MB SDRAM

User available storage ROM,75MB for western languages,71MB for eastern languages

GPS SiRF StarIII GPS chip

Embedded 25mm*25mm swivel patch antenna

External antenna jack

Expansion Slot One slot - SD slot(SDIO/SD/MMC)

Audio Integrated microphone and speaker

One 3.5mm earphone jack and MP3 stereo

Communication Bluetooth 2.0

WLAN 802.11b + g

SIR (115.2kbps Max)

USB 1.1 Client GPS navigation

battery 1300 mAh, removable/ rechargeable Li-ion battery

Dimension 122mm x 73.2mm x 18.8mm/19.45mm(L*W*H)

Weight 186g (with battery)

The main differences between the A636N and the A636 is that the A636 only has 11M wireless and Bluetooth 1.1. Also, the A636N allows charging via the USB port on your PC, whereas the lesser A636 does not. Unfortunately they both have a USB 1.1 interface. USB 2.0 was introduced in the A639.

For GPS navigation, I use TomTom software. You can buy the A636N as a package which comes with CoPilot GPS software, but all that I've read made me convinced that TomTom to be betetr. It works well on this unit. Especially as I can turn the display sideways on the A636N for better viewing of maps/routes. From what I was reading around the net, the SiRF StarIII GPS chip (which the A636N has) was a must as it locks onto satellites quicker than other chips and performed better. Haven't had a problem yet. The GPS antenna is on a swivel mount, which folds neatly behind the unit when not in use.

The other important consideration when purchasing a PDA was getting one with a removable battery - which the Asus has got. If the battery fails, then all I have to do is replace it, not send the whole unit away for repair. I'm not sure what the battery life is like as I haven't had it go flat on me yet. This is because when I am in the car using the GPS, the A636N is getting charged at the same time. I did run it for a while not on charge and I noticed the power drain is quite significant.

As far as the PDA side of things go, it perform like any other PDA similarly equipped. Windows pocket mobile is flawless, and connectivity to other devices via bluetooth and wireless is easy. Installing apps is via USB connectivity to a PC running Microsoft Activesync.

Windows pocket mobile performs similarly to a 'real' PC running windows, with Microsoft Word, Excel being standard. There is also a file explorer, control panel, and even Internet Explorer if you connect the PDA to the internet via the bluetooth or wireless function. So if you have used windows before, this won't be too difficult.

The only thing that takes a bit to get used to is the stylus for input but there are various modes for input rang from a pseudo keyboard on the screen (where you tap on the letter you want), to a transcriber mode where you can write as you normally would with a pen. The Asus does quite well to interpret your writing 'style'.

What I was really impressed with is that the A636N came with all the cables/adaptors necessary - including the suction mount (and charger) for the car when using the GPS function. As well a case for the unti was included. The only additional purchase I had to make was a decent sized SD memory card to store all my data. The Asus comes with a 64M card. Memory cards have come down in price a lot over the last couple of years so that extra cost was not too bad on the wallet.

Overall, I think the Asus A636N is a great product for a great price. Packed full of features, I really don't know what else I would prefer in a PDS/GPS combo unit - except USB 2.0. It's certainly a step up from my old LCD Palm Pilot.

Industrial Battery Safety Guide for Yuasa Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

A Yuasa sealed lead-acid battery is a type of industrial battery that is designed so that during the charging process, oxygen is generated, captured and recombined within the battery. The electrolyte is confined, but the gases escape through a vent or valve if the pressure inside exceeds its threshold.

These types of batteries work well for many industrial and day-to-day purposes, even in cars, boats and power generators. However, you should take the necessary safety precautions while using Yuasa sealed lead-acid batteries. Here are some quick tips for industrial battery safety.

Battery Storage Safety

When storing industrial batteries, be sure the storage area is well ventilated. Also, industrial batteries should not be stored near flames or where sparks can form. For damaged batteries, be sure to label these as "damaged" and store them in containment structures that are acid-resistant.

Tips for Charging Yuasa Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

When charging industrial batteries, use a charger that is designed for that particular battery. Otherwise, you could permanently damage the battery or cause a fire to occur. The charging area should not be located near where flames, electric arcs or sparks could form. Never over-charge an industrial battery. Always replenish the battery fluid with distilled water.

If in a work environment, be sure there are emergency wash facilities located near the charging and storage areas. Also in both the charging and storage areas, hang signs stating "No Smoking - Flammable."

Storing and Pouring Acid for Yuasa Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

When storing acid for industrial batteries, keep the acid away from direct sunlight and be sure the storage area stays cool at all times. Always use nonmetallic funnels and containers. Pour the concentrated acid into the water very slowly and carefully; do NOT pour water into the acid. Wear safety gloves, goggles and arm protection while working with acid.

If you get acid in your eyes, flush them immediately with water for at least 15 minutes, and then seek medical attention. If you get acid on your skin, rinse the skin immediately with lots of water. If the acid burns appear to be second degree burns or worse, then seek medical attention. In case of an acid spill, neutralize the spill with baking soda, and then rinse it with clean water.

Servicing Industrial Batteries

Service industrial batteries regularly and inspect them for loose connections, corrosion on connectors or terminals, cracked areas on the battery case or cover, loose clamps, and defective cables. Replace any worn or torn parts. Clean the battery terminal and clamps with a tapered brush and a baking soda solution, but be careful not to touch both terminals simultaneously as this can cause shock. Be sure to follow the Yuasa sealed lead-acid battery manufacturer's guide when replacing or repairing the battery.

Follow these tips to use Yuasa sealed lead-acid batteries safely and effectively. You'll get longer use out of the batteries, and will also protect yourself and others from injury.

Dyson DC31 - Dyson Vacuum Cleaners Review

The biggest problem with the previous models of Dyson Vacuum Cleaners was the poor battery life. That has been greatly improved in two ways. This model of Dyson Vacuum Cleaners has doubled the battery life and it has a better charger. It is so easy to grab and use, we were able to keep corners clean, crumbs out of the grout lines in the furniture, computer keyboards clean, drawers clear of all that little stuff that seems to get in them, particularly the 1m by 1m mess the husband makes during the football games. 30 seconds with this vacuum and the mess is gone. We also use this for a quick vacuum of the couch. Also great for anywhere our in-home can't reach (like the stairs).

In short the house was just cleaner in multiple ways that are normally challenging. We loved the trigger on/off action that made its short battery life tolerable and the dependable strong Dyson power, plus the easily dump able canister is really convenient.

The Dyson DC31 is somewhat smaller in the line of Dyson Vacuum Cleaners, lighter weight and quieter, plus has a dual power setting. The normal power setting is fine for most things; in fact we haven't needed the strong setting at all except to get dog hair out of the crevices of the stair treads.

The DC31 of Dyson Vacuum Cleaners is designed to give 6 to 10 minutes of constant suction which we have found to be the right amount of time to pick up small amounts of dust and debris around the home or in the car.

This 10 minute run time is longer than it seems because the trigger action means the unit is on only when you're squeezing the trigger to actually vacuum something, not when moving to another location or shifting position. That's not only easier on the ears, it also makes the work go more smoothly. You can vacuum an area, then set the unit down (because it sits upright it has a relatively small footprint) and move stuff, clean out the next drawer, sort the papers you gathered, whatever, and then vacuum the next bit without any pressure to get all the vacuuming done in one shot, or perpetually turning the thing on and off.

We've been able to clean out and vacuum the entire car including the 'way back', a process that certainly took longer than 10 minutes, but because the vacuum is not on continually we had no problem, in fact it shows no indication it's near the end of the charge. We can clean out all the kitchen drawers or the entire linen closet or all the nooks and crannies in a room on a charge with no problem.

On a rare occasion when using the Dyson Vacuum Cleaners keeps shutting off, when pressing the ON switch it comes back on again. This indicates that the DC31 battery may require a charge. This simply is what happens to your DC31 since it is designed to never fade in its power but to stop when the battery is close to requiring a re-charge. Your DC31 will cut the power and then can sometimes start up again for a small burst. This is our "no-fade" technology at work. You should be getting 6-10 minutes on a full charge.

The Dyson DC31 doesn't have a bulky charger like the old one. It has a plug-in cord like a laptop and apparently some technology in the wall plug part that somehow knows to shut itself off after 3.5 hours so it's not 'tiring' the fully charged battery. We are expecting this battery to last far longer than the earlier model. This vacuum also has a quicker on/off time and generally seems handier.

The directions are minimal and almost entirely pictures. They are well done and self-explanatory. So far we are delighted with this hand vacuum. It is better than its predecessor. It comes with a normal length crevice tool, in addition to a two-position brush tool. We also purchased the longer flexible crevice tool, but have found it heavy and awkward so we almost never use that accessory. We love this little Dyson hand vacuum cleaner so much more than the other choices available (several of which we have tried in the past) and highly recommend it even given the high price.

SportDog SDF - 100 Electric Dog Fence Review

SportDog makes a lot of equipment for people training bird dogs. They have one dog fence in their lineup, the SportDog SDF-100. It is the longest range dog fence available, doing 100 acres and is strong. The downside is that the collar is not rechargeable, and the whole system is pretty bulky and not at all pretty.

Box Contents

Collar

The SDF-100 is one of the bulkiest dog fence collars. You shouldn't use this on a dog under 20lbs. It also has this bright orange plastic collar, great for visibility but a little garish for most peoples tastes. The collar takes a regular 9V battery, which is good because you don't have to buy an expensive proprietary battery, but isn't as good as a rechargeable battery. To get to the battery you have to undo these four screw which is a bit of a pain. But the upside is that it has great waterproofing. It has a nice set of seals to make this really waterproof. The collar correction level is set at the collar, so you can set a different level for each dog. You unscrew this cover with a coin and then you press this little button. There are a total of five correction levels. Levels 2-5 are progressive so they keep increasing in strength if your dog stays in the correction zone. The probes on the collar can be switched out for either these long probes or these standard size probes.

Where this collar stands out is that it is super tough. It can take a beating and has really good waterproofing. We had a customer a couple of years ago that left the collar outside and found it six months later when they hit it with a lawnmower. They switched out the battery and it worked perfectly.

Control Box

The standout feature of the system is the control box, which can power up to 100 acres, which is nearly 10,000 feet of boundary wire. So if you need something bigger than the 25 acre range on the IUC-4100 this is the one to get. Controls on the box are pretty standard. You can set the boundary width with this dial. The side switch, switches you between beep only, correction plus beep, and correction only modes. Note that there is no battery backup on this one. Like the collar, this unit is big bulky and ugly but it does the job.

Conclusion

One other nice thing about the SportDog is that it comes standard with 1,000 feet of boundary wire. Twice as much as the standard system. Overall a good tough system that is the one to get if you need to go over over 25 acres.

What to Look For in a 24-Volt Battery Charger

When we look back at how people lived their lives back then, we can think of countless reasons why our lives are easier now. Man's constant pursuit for a better life has pushed people to keep inventing, and this-for the most part-has worked to our advantage. For example, the automobile industry's insatiable thirst for bringing more affordable, and not to mention safer cars has propelled the industry to churn innovative automobiles each year. With these new cars, equipment for maintenance also needs to advance to keep up with the machines. Specifically, leaps have been made to make a 24-volt battery charger more efficient.

Before purchasing your own 24-volt battery charger, experts compel you to determine what your needs are. You have to be aware of your desired outcome so that you can get something that will address your concerns. In most cases, you would want a charger that works faster, but keep in mind that not everyone needs all that power. For example, if you just need a charger that would keep your battery running in the off-season, then you would be okay with a low current charger.

Another thing to ask is if you would be exposing the charger to various elements. Waterproof chargers are now widely available, and these can really be helpful especially if you are out a lot. Getting a charger with a solid steel casing may also be a good idea, as you would be dealing with a sturdier piece.

An anti-sparking feature is a good thing to look out for, as it prevents common mishaps. The great thing about a 24-volt battery charger is that in most models, you do not have to wait for the battery to charge. Before, you literally had to watch the charger do its job. When the charger is done charging, it switches to trickle mode. This means you can leave the charger while it does its job.

What to Consider Before Buying External Battery for Your iPhone

Few gadgets have taken the public more by storm than the iPhone. It's a mobile phone, mp4 and mp3 player, web browser, camera and all-around neat doodad that most people want and can't live without. Unfortunately, it suffers from a deadbeat battery that refuses to last longer than 8 hours at a time on a good day, so most users compromise utility (they shut off most of the neater applications which drain the battery faster) for longevity. An alternative, of course, is to get an external battery for your iPhone. The question is which one? What to consider before buying external battery for your iPhone? Let us elucidate.

Capacity
There are lots of external batteries on the market, and many are quite well known and have been well received, so the choices make it harder to decide. What to consider before buying external battery pack for your iPhone is primarily its capacity to charge. More is better in this case. You want an external backup juice that can extend your iPhone's battery life by as much as possible before having to recharge the external battery itself, especially if you travel a lot. Most of the popular iPhone batteries out there can do no more than charge one cycle, which is about 8 hours. The best external battery in the market in terms of capacity so far provides a bit more than 4 cycles of charge. That means you won't have a problem going on a two-day camping trip or a transcontinental flight because you know you'll be able to charge your iPhone throughout the trip and stay connected.

Portability

The next factor you should consider is size and weight. You don't want to carry a bulky external battery that weighs a ton in your pocket or bag, and as much as possible you'll want it to be easy to carry and use. A recent innovation in the external battery market is battery cases, designed like a holster in such a way that your iPhone fits snugly into it. The best types are the ones that are slim and elegant so it fits right in with your lifestyle.

Versatility

Now, while your iPhone is the best thing in your purse or pocket, you probably bring other things when you go on a trip that you need to charge as well. This could be another phone like a Blackberry, game consoles like the Sony PSP or Nintendo Game, or an ebook reader like a Kindle. A good backup booster for your iPhone can charge other gadgets as well, although it may require the use of various adapters.

Affordability
What to consider before buying battery extender pack for your iPhone finally is value for money. Many of the external batteries for iPhone out there can cost a bundle, so it would be a smart idea to shop around for the most reasonably priced brand. Of course, value for money doesn't mean you should get inferior quality products, and you should do your research regarding the customer service of your external battery for iPhone. Zoom in on an extended battery juice pack provider that guarantees the quality of the product as well as has a proven track record in after-sales service.

The above items are what to consider before buying external battery for your iPhone, and it may be that IMP500, IMP880 can provide you with what you need with zero hassle. Check out its more products on like IMP1000, IMP170, IMP130, IMP190 for your various iPhone needs. You won't regret it.

A History of Battery Chargers

The history of battery chargers is long but interesting. Chargers and rechargeable batteries date back to the 1800's. The concepts and designs have taken on new meaning in the era of portable electronics. With new technology there is charger for almost everything imaginable. The devices are widely used, and their progression over time is huge.

The first battery charger was for the car. The idea came from Gaston Plante, a French physicist that invented the lead acid cell battery in 1859. Though, it was years later that the idea became what it is today, he was the pioneer of the concepts. It was Waldemar Jungner that discovered the Nickel-Cadmium battery in 1899. The Swedish scientist developed this product and it was on the market by 1906. These men of science had ideas before their times. Imagine what they would think of today progress of their once simple ideas.

Chargers for lithium-Ion batteries are almost a necessity in society today. Being used in everything from mobile phones, to laptops, and many other portable devices, they are a must for most. They were introduced in 1991 by Sony. The twenty year phenomenon in the making was originally theorized in the 1970s. Nickel-Metal Hydride was created in the 1980s. This battery comes in all sizes and is probably the most common household battery used today.

Battery charging devices are a common item to own. They come into play with the invention of rechargeable batteries. The idea behind it all was not only to save money but to save time. The average person can save hundreds of dollars per year by using rechargeable batteries with a battery charger. That same person can also save a great deal of time. The more modern designs were also intended to help save the environment by reducing waste and eliminating unnecessary uses of extra energy. The researchers of the pasts would be proud of where the designs have led.

The thought of not having a battery charger for practically everything you own has probably never crossed your mind, but let it for a moment. If you did not have a mobile phone charger or if you weren't able to recharge those AA batteries for the digital camera what would you do? The concepts may not all have been intended for what they have become, but the transition over time is surely remarkable. Chargers and rechargeable batteries in yesterday's world are the building blocks for today's models. So much has developed in the last hundred years in this science. When one looks back at the past and sees what has become, one can help but to think of the future and wonder what will be.

Canon SD3500IS Review

The Canon SD3500IS is an aesthetically pleasing digital camera; this device has a wonderfully wide 3.5 inch LCD display for framing shots, and it offers up touch screen technologies for super ease of manipulation. The Canon Powershot SD3500IS is a sharp 14.1 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens, a 24 millimeter super wide angle lens, and you can print directly from the camera. Images can be as large as 16.5 inches by 23.4 inches when printed. When you buy the Canon SD3500IS you can prepare yourself for the ultimate picture and video capturing experience.

With the Canon SD3500IS you get a camera that can capture video in 720p high definition format. You get intelligent features too which makes shooting impeccable features possible in every instance. You get a terrific range of perks with the Canon Powershot SD3500IS: enjoy image stabilization, fisheye effect, miniature effect, and so much more in a camera that measures 2.2 inches in height by 3.9 inches in width by 8.7 inches in depth. Since the Canon SD3500IS weighs just over 5.5 ounces, you can carry it around with incredible ease too.

Your investment in the Canon Powershot SD3500IS gets you the durable and compact camera body, the CD digital camera solution software, the NB6L battery, the WSDC10 wrist strap, and the battery charger. You also get the AV cable and the USB cables you need for connectivity. The Canon Powershot SD3500IS has a sharp looking body made of black metal material. You get a CCD sensor inside, and a camera equipped with plenty of light sensitivity settings. Integrated in the Canon Powershot SD3500IS you also get the DIGIC 4 processor an exemplary range of shooting modes, a marvelous range of special effects, and several settings for exposure metering. The Canon SD3500IS is a paragon when it comes to features which intensify your creativity.

This small device has a gargantuan list of exquisite features. From optical image stabilization to plenty of presets for white balance, from a range of flash modes to an embedded flash feature, from an AF illuminator inclusion to a motorized lens, you cannot help but be impressed by the features inside the Canon SD3500IS. You will absolutely love the motorized zoom, the embedded lens shield, the aspherical lens, the UA lens, and all the features that improve picture quality like the digital noise reduction features, the ability to edit pictures in the camera, the blink and motion detection, the face and scene detection, the intelligent contrast features, the automated camera orientation detection features, and the embedded microphone for capturing sound bites.

When you get the Canon SD3500IS you are getting a camera that works with almost any operating system too; this device works with Macintosh and Windows operating systems. Your creativity is further enhanced with the variety of software you are supplied with when you get the Canon Powershot SD3500IS as well; you will soon find yourself using the ZoomBrowser EX, the ImageBrowswer, and the PhotoStitch software that comes with the SD3500IS purchase. Remarkable technologies in a super tight camera casing: that is what the consumer gets with the Canon SD3500IS.

ASUS Eee PC 1000HE 10-inch Netbook - An Honest Review

For those who want a powerful PC in a compact, portable frame, the ASUS Eee 1000HE Netbook is the choice for you. With over 9 hours of battery life thanks to the new Intel N280 processor and Asus Super Hybrid Engine battery technology, it is the perfect laptop for working on the road.

Don't let the 10-inch frame deceive you; the new chicklet keyboard with its wide keys offers the comfort of a full-size keyboard to help reduce miscues and typos. The Eee PC's sturdy backlit display and high-resolution screen offers sharp, crisp images for added comfort on the eyes while reading and editing documents.

A 1.3 megapixel web camera propped just above the screen is perfect for web-conferencing or video chatting with friends and loved ones across the country, and the world. Built in WiFi technology makes it easy to connect to any open wireless network to access the web. The ASUS Eee 1000HE is a great machine to help you be more efficiently at the office, home, or away from both.

Bluetooth capabilities allow you to wirelessly connect a mouse or headphones to your computer, a great convenience on the road. The 1000HE's 160 gig hard drive has plenty of space for your favorite music, videos, and personal files and if you need more space, or added security, Asus offers 10 gigs of online backup storage absolutely free.

Equipped with Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Windows Live Messenger, and Works, the 1000HE allows you to learn, work, and play from anywhere in the world. This is perfect as a second notebook for business professionals always on the move, or even a primary computer for the average user.

Review of the Black and Decker CM1936 Cordless Lawn Mower

With advances in battery technology cordless lawn mowers are now posing a challenge to their gas powered counterparts. In the past cordless mowers have tended to be limited by a lack of power and a lack of charge time. However, these days both of these issues have become less significant. One of the most popular models is the Black and Decker CM1936 Cordless Lawn Mower.

With a 36 Volt battery this model has plenty of power without any of the mess and hassle of a gas powered mower. It has an efficient design which means that the battery charge lasts longer and will typically mow up to a third of an acre on a single charge. The battery is removable so if you have a large plot you have the option of purchasing a second battery.

Unlike gas powered mowers there is no pull start cord to contend with and all the difficulties in starting that this can bring. Instead it has a system where you insert a key, flick a handle and you are away. The motor is very quiet, far quieter than a gas mower.

Whilst corded electric mowers are easy to use with no mess and hassle, they are severely limited by the fact that you have to deal with an electric cable. Using an extension cable will increase the range but has serious safety implications.

The CM1936 is designed so that it mulches the grass clippings back into your lawn so that it not only takes away the hassle of collecting he clippings, but it feeds the lawn at the same time. However, if you prefer to collect the clippings in the traditional way to put onto your compost, then a rear bag for the purpose is also provided.

Gas powered mowers contribute significantly to the harmful emissions released into the atmosphere. Cordless lawn mowers do not produce any emissions directly, although it should not be forgotten is that a certain amount of power is required to charge the mower's battery and this in itself may produce some emissions (unless your supplier produces its power through sustainable means), albeit indirectly.

Overall, the Black and Decker CM1936 Cordless Lawn Mower performs easily as well as a gas powered mower, but without any of the hassle of dealing gas and oil cans, and none of the difficulties in starting. There are certainly good reasons why this is one of the best selling lawn mowers.

Nokia N97 Vs iPhone 3GS - Review

The Nokia N97 is Nokia's flagship handset and, on paper at least, it has an enviable set of specs that push the boundaries of smartphone tech. But Apple's iPhone is still the touchscreen handset to beat. How does the N97 match up against the latest iPhone 3GS?

- Size & weight

The iPhone 3GS and the N97 are roughly the same size when you hold them in the palm of your hand (give or take a millimetre). But the N97 carries a little more plastic fat around the waist - the 3GS is 4mm thinner and 15g lighter than Nokia's phone.
Nokia N97 0 - 1 iPhone 3GS

- Talk time & battery life

Ok, so measuring talktime and battery life isn't an exact science... But Apple boasts 12 hours of talktime for the iPhone 3GS, compared to 10 hours for the N97. In terms of standby time, the roles are reversed and the 3GS loses out to the N97 by 432 hours to 300 hours. A point each.
Nokia N97 1 - 2 iPhone 3GS

- Connectivity

Both phones feature fast 3G, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. The iPhone range did lack the A2DP protocol as part of its Bluetooth package, but this has since been remedied with the iPhone 3.0 software upgrade. Another tie.
Nokia N97 2 - 3 iPhone 3GS

- Digital camera

Although Apple has upgraded the digital camera in the 3GS, it wasn't as bold an improvement as many people hoped for. The iPhone's 3 Megapixel lens (with autofocus) is decent enough and is also capable of capturing VGA-quality video at speeds up to 30 fps. In comparison, the N97 features a 5MP Carl Zeiss lens with autofocus and LED flash. Video resolution is also maxed out at a 640×480 VGA resolution.
Nokia N97 3 - 3 iPhone 3GS

- Storage

The Nokia N97 matches the top-of-the-range iPhone Gigabyte for Gigabyte - both pack 32GB of internal storage. But the N97 also features a microSD expansion slot, enabling users to boost the overall memory by up to 16GB. This gives the N97 a maximum storage capacity of 48GB. Nice.
Nokia N97 4 - 3 iPhone 3GS

- Screen/Keyboard

Both the N97 and the 3GS feature 3.5-inch touch-sensitive displays with accelerometer technology. The N97 boasts a higher resolution display too - 640×360 pixels compared to the 480×320 pixels on the 3GS. And let's not forget the N97's QWERTY keyboard. But, as nice as the N97's screen is, it uses old-fangled 'resistive' technology and lacks the responsiveness of the 'capacative' multi-touch display on the iPhone.
Nokia N97 5 - 4 iPhone 3GS

- Other features

The N97 features a customisable homescreen (with user-definable web widgetry), a built-in FM radio, N-Gage friendliness and the Symbian OS supports downloadable apps and games. But the iPhone is probably the most customisable smartphone currently available, thanks to the thousands of apps, games and utilities available on the iTunes App Store. The 3GS also features PowerVR SGX graphics technology for enhanced multimedia speed.
Nokia N97 5 - 5 iPhone 3GS

- Verdict: Draw

Car Battery Buying Tips

Your car battery probably isn't something you think about too often until it fails and you can't start your car. Unfortunately your car battery doesn't come with an empty/full gauge like your fuel tank does so remembering how old your battery is certainly helps but it still doesn't tell you exactly when your battery is about to die until it's too late.

Here are some tips to ensure you're ready should your battery die quicker than you'd like and need to buy a new one:

1. Buy a good quality battery charger/tester: Having a battery charger in your vehicle will ensure you can jumpstart your own vehicle should the battery die at an inopportune time. Good quality battery chargers also tell you how much juice is left in your battery so you can monitor the battery and not be surprised when it runs out. When it does run out, you can restart your car and get to the garage to buy a new one.

2. Don't buy used: While you can save money by using used automobile parts and get a good deal and a good product, buying a used car battery doesn't make a lot of sense. When you consider the cost of a new car battery - it varies depending on the brand, size and your vehicle type of course - taking your chances with a used one really doesn't make a lot of sense considering your vehicle doesn't go anywhere when the battery dies and the money you might save by buying used doesn't save you that much in the long run.

3. Understand what your vehicle requires: Your vehicle requires a specific sized battery so you should know ahead of time what one your vehicle requires. Car batteries come in the following sizes: Size 65, Size 75, Size 24/24F, Size 34/78 and Size 35. Your vehicle owner's manual will shed light on what size you require.

4. Take your climate into consideration: Some batteries perform better in colder weather climates than others and this is important when you live in a region that suffers from harsh winters where your battery will be used for a heater, defroster, headlights, heated seats and other electric devices that you'll need during the winter. Look for a battery with a suitable Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) figure because it's the measurement that determines how well the battery performs in cold weather. Specifically it's the number of amps that your battery can support for 30 seconds at a temperature of 0 degrees fahrenheit until the battery voltage drops to an unusable level. Typically the higher the CCA the better when you live in a cold weather climate.