How Does Satellite TV Work

Satellite TV is a buzzword among the techno-buff community as well as the television viewers. How does satellite television work? How do satellites facilitate television-viewing? An understanding of the technology behind the working of a satellite TV can provide us with the answers. Let's find them.

What is Satellite TV

Satellite TV is the television system wherein communication satellites orbiting the Earth bring about the transmission of television signals. It is a wireless system that facilitates the relay of TV programs by means of satellite communication. In many countries around the world, satellite television services are used for providing the consumers with more number of TV channels and a wider range of services. Do you know when the first satellite TV signal was relayed? It was way back in 1962 that the first satellite television signal went from Europe to the Telstar satellite over North America. Anik 1, a domestic geostationary satellite of Canada was the first of its kind to carry television signals. From then, there was no looking back and the popularity of satellite television continues to rise.

How does Satellite TV work?

The satellites that aid the transmission of television signals have elliptical or geostationary orbits. The satellite television setup consists of a transmitting antenna or uplink satellite dishes pointed towards specific satellites. The dishes have large diameters, which help in increasing the signal strength and enable accurate aiming at the satellite.

The satellite houses transponders, which receive signals from the antenna. The uplinked signals are tuned to a frequency range that corresponds to that of the transponders. The transponders retransmit the signals back to Earth. Before they are retransmitted, the signals undergo a process of translation wherein they are transmitted at a different frequency band in order to avoid interference with the uplink signal.

The signals that are transmitted by the transponders on a satellite are received by the parabolic dish. On account of traveling a substantially large distance, the signal received by the dish is weak. The signal is reflected towards the feedhorn, a device mounted at the focal point of the dish. The function of a feedhorn is to collect the received signal and conduct it towards the low-noise block downconverter (LNB).

The LNB amplifies the signal and converts it to a frequency that is suitable for transmission over a cable, precisely to the L-band range. The LNB transmits the signal over the intra-facility link (IFL) to the satellite receiver. IFL refers to the coaxial cable that connects the indoor and outdoor satellite equipment. Owing to the LNB, the handling of L-band signals becomes easy. Also, low-cost cables can be used to connect the television receiver with the TV dish and the LNB. The satellite receiver sends the signals to the television set and it is ready to come alive!

While you are lazily flicking through television channels, the satellite communication system is busy delivering content. So the next time you switch on your TV, I am sure, you will take a moment to think of all that goes behind the relay of radio signals to your television set.

Dish Network TV Guide

The Dish Network TV guide allows you to install the service by entering the zip code and selecting the satellite. The Dish Network program guide has a calendar-like interface and shows channel number and channel name. It also shows the start and end time of a show, and the time left for the current show to end.

With Dish Network, the viewer can browse through the schedule while seeing a show. The Dish Network TV guide shows the MPAA rating of the movie, which can be G, PG, PG-13 or R. It also shows the names of the actors and actresses in the movie. It also indicates whether the TV show is close captioned or not. Close captioning means the viewer sees subtitles on screen. The viewer also sees the names of the characters on screen, and other information such as whether the character is screaming or whispering. The Dish Network programming guide also indicates whether the sound is in stereo or not. If it is in stereo, the sounds coming from the left and right speakers are different, unlike in mono in which the sounds coming from both the speakers are same.

The viewer can plan ahead with the Dish Network TV guide, because it shows what's on TV tomorrow and even the day after tomorrow. With Dish Network guide, it is possible to group shows together, according to the theme or the type of show. For example, the guide groups all news shows or sports shows together. Other categories are movies, family, education, series, music and religious. The viewer can also search for a TV show or movie, by using keywords such as title or name of actor.

The viewer can make a custom guide, which is a list of all his favorite channels. The viewer can also be notified when a TV show or movie is on by setting the timer. The viewer can also use the event timer as an alarm clock. The auto-tune feature automatically changes to a particular channel at a specific time. The Dish Network program guide also shows the news and weather and allows users to play games.

Dish Network TV guide is better than a cable TV guide, which has some problems. Channel surfing is slower with cable TV because if the difference between the channel numbers is large, then jumping from one channel to another is slow. The cable TV listings are difficult to read because there is no space to fit the description of the TV show or movie. Sometimes, the viewer only sees one word of the title of the TV show or movie. With cable TV, it is also not possible to group news shows or sports shows together neither is it possible to make a favorite list of the channels the viewer likes the most.

The packages that Dish Network offers are Dish Family (50 channels), Bronze (100 channels), Silver (200 channels) and Gold (250 channels). Dish Network also offers movie channels such as HBO, Starz, Showtime and Cinemax and local channels from CBS, ABC, NBC and Fox for most regions. The viewer can watch HDTV shows by using a HDTV receiver, which is given free by Dish Network. A DVR is also available for free, to record shows that the viewer likes.

The future of Dish Network is very bright. Satellite TV, in which the two major players are Dish Network and DIRECTV, give better value for money than cable TV because they provide more channels. It is possible that Dish Network will become more popular than cable TV companies such as Comcast, Time Warner, Cox and Charter. Also, the Dish Network TV Guide may introduce more features in the future, to make it more functional and user-friendly.

KEF Blade

KEF Blade

When KEF gave their engineers free rein to create a fitting showcase for their technology leadership, they developed a revolutionary prototype that looked and performed like no other: Concept Blade, the world's first single apparent source loudspeaker.

Its phenomenal sonic capabilities met with such praise that they decided to produce an edition that serious audiophiles could actually own. After two years of painstaking refinement - and in time to mark 50 years of KEF innovation - Blade is the result.

Conceived from the outset to extend the boundaries of high end audio, it’s a unique synthesis of innovative engineering and groundbreaking design based on a new architecture that achieves the ideal point source to which all speakers aspire. This is because the four sophisticated new bass drivers are configured so that their combined acoustic centre occupies exactly the same point in space as that of the Uni-Q HF/MF array, so the sound appears to emanate from a single, flawlessly coherent source.

Sculptural and acoustically inert, the slender parabolic enclosures are engineered never to interfere with the purity of the output. The advanced new hybrid cones are so light and rigid that their natural break-up point is never reached within the required frequency range. Inside, you find ingenious new venting, bracing and wave management technologies. Meticulously specified, super-premium components - every one operating so comfortably within its performance envelope that you experience noticeably more precise imaging than is possible with conventional speakers. What you hear sounds as if it’s live - emotionally engaging, richly musical and effortlessly natural. A revelation, pure and simple.

KEF Blade, IS Europe Exhibition

Another fact that makes the KEF Blade a worthy contender for one of the best high end reference speaker is the fact that you do not need a huge power amp to drive the unit. At the IS Europe Exhibition they used a Arcam integrated stereo amp. The sound was out of this world, even within the huge hall with thousand of people and hundreds of stands the sound cut through all the noise to give accurate and atmospheric sound, fabulous speaker!

Design

Three-way bass reflex, Single Apparent Source driver configuration

Drive Units - Uni-Q driver array:

MF: 125mm (5in.) Li-Mg-Al /LCP hybrid cone

HF: 25mm (1in.) Al dome

Bass units: LF: 4 x 225mm (9in.) with force cancelling

Frequency Response

40Hz - 35kHz +/- 3dB

28Hz - 45kHZ +/- 6dB

Harmonic Distortion

2nd and 3rd harmonics (90dB/1m):

<0.5% 40Hz - 100kHz

<0.2% 200Hz - 10kHz

Crossover Frequencies

350Hz, 3kHz

Amplifier Requirements

50-400W

Sensitivity (2.83V/1m) - 90dB

Maximum output (SPL) - 117dB

Nominal impedance - 4 Ohms (3.2 Ohms min.)

Weight - 57.2 kg (126 lbs)

Dimensions

(H x W x D)

1590 x 363 x 540 mm

62.5 x 14.3 x 21.2 in.

Standard finishes

Gloss black or gloss white

Custom colors

Garnet, Sapphire, Grigio, Racing red, Racing blue,

Pale gold, Orange sorbet, Graphite, Stardust,

Lemon sorbet, Lime sorbet or Snow white

Home Theater Projectors

With the advent of home theaters the craze of watching movies in a real theater has faded out to a considerable extent. More and more people are looking forward to watch the much awaited and most favorite movies in the cozy comfort of their homes. Therefore the new buzzword is Home Theater. Home Theater consists of a projector and a screen.

Home Theater Projector
The projector is the device that helps in displaying the image as a response to an image output signal from the image supply apparatus like the computer or the DVD player. Initially projectors were used for conferences and meetings, presentations, exhibitions and demonstrations and those projectors were known as data projectors since they only displayed statistical graphs, surveys and documents but now they are being used for the purpose of entertainment.

Home theater projectors refer to the Front Projectors, which are ceiling mounted or placed on a shelf or in the most common cases placed on a table. It can also be used in a rear screen arrangement but then space poses a problem for rear screen arrangement. Most of the home theaters are widescreen-producing images. They are designed to operate in a dark room to facilitate clear picture, if that is not possible you a more powerful projector should be chosen. Modern Home Theater projectors use technology like The LCD, DLP and LCOS. Each technology is being tried and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Most of the projectors are networked essentially with a receiver, a Home theater PC, speakers, screen, DVD player, cable box and a satellite box. Built-in or All-in-one home theaters are also available in the market. The rear projector consists of an image generator, which generates a projection image, a case that accommodates the generator, a reflection mirror and a transmissive screen. The reflection mirror reflects the projected image.

Home theater projectors generate a big picture that is not appropriate for small rooms. The other disadvantage is that the light has to be minimum since the pictures are projected with the help of a light source and any other light coming from any other source interferes with it. To have the best results the home theater has to be dedicated with a separate room, which is dark and is big enough for all the paraphernalia of the projector and the home theater.The cost of a projector can cost more than the television or the screen to be precise. The projectors can cost around $3000.

Home Theater Projection Screen
In a home theater the images are displayed on the projector screen projected from the projector. These screens provide excellent picture quality and are one of the trendiest home accessories in modern times. It is one of the most important parts of a home theater system besides the projector. The screen can either be a front projection screen or a rear projection screen. Flat screens are the most appropriate ones for front projection screen that are retractable and you have the option of rolling it up. Most of the screens have the velvet covering so that the extra light can be absorbed. The type of projectors that are being used, the seating arrangement and the distance between the screen and the projector should determine the screen type. There are Plasma and LCD screens as well, which have great picture quality. They are very convenient but also very expensive. Plasma Screens are susceptible to Burn-ins and consumers do complain that displays on a plasma screen are big enough but then the image if left on the screen for long time actually causes damage. A flat Plasma screen can be beneficial since it is compact and real pleasure to the eyes.

Best HDTV for Gaming

The latest trend in the international market is HDTV. People everywhere are opting for it and searching for the best deals available in it. HDTV (High Definition Television) has changed the look and technology of our standard TV sets and given us a new vision that defines the meaning of clarity. If you want to know the difference between HDTV and standard TV sets, just keep them adjacent to each other and you will notice the difference of the picture. You will obviously feel that HDTV is a better purchase. Now people all over the world like to view their favorite movies and TV shows on the latest HDTV for the better picture quality. In this large group of people, there exist gamers who like to see their games played on a clear screen which offers a better resolution and the search for best HDTV for gaming is an important task for a dedicated gamer.

Display is everything when you play games, so it's quite obvious that you need to know about the best HDTV for gaming. Never be under the impression that a big monitor is enough for perfect gaming, it's also very important that you have the best HDTV brand that offers you a much better picture and brightness than a standard television set.

Best LCD HDTV for Gaming

Gamers are always advised to purchase LCD TVs as they don't suffer from common heating or burning problems, they are available in many screen sizes and recently have become very affordable. When you think of buying the best HDTV for gaming, it's recommended that you purchase a model which has a PC input and minimum 3 HDMI inputs so that you can play your various game consoles like PS3, Microsoft Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii game console. Many new models of HDTV come with a game mode that reduces lag, which is a major concern for many gamers. For more understanding about HDTV, I advise you to read this article on how and which HDTV works to make your gaming experience even better.

Sharp Aquos LCD Gaming TV
The Sharp Aquos for gamers comes with a full 1080p resolution for improved picture quality and 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio which offers you the clearest and a wide range of colors. It also comes with an added feature which is known as the 'Vyper Drive'. This technology eliminates game lag which is a major concern for hardcore gamers the world over. It's also equipped with six side terminals so that you can easily plug in or plug out devices without reaching for the back.

Sony Bravia KDL-42XBR6
Critics call Sony Bravia KDL-32XBR6 a world leader when it comes to picture quality and it stands up to its reputation. It's one of the most preferred brand when it comes to LCD gaming with 1080p and a fairly low input lag. It's loaded with 4 HDMI inputs and has a PC input for connecting all of your HD equipment. The Bravia XBR comes with enhanced features like Xross Media Bar with 3D graphics and an integrated TV guide program which makes it the best 42 inch LCD TV in its class.

Vizio VO32LF SRS
Another LCD which is ideal for gaming is the Vizio VO32LF SRS. It's got surround sound and a high-definition resolution and side terminals for easy access. Vizio TV reviews state that this impressive gaming TV set boasts of a 178 degree viewing angle, so it's a great buy for people who like having friends while playing games. For great sound quality, include an SRS Labs TruSurround XTTM.

Best HDTV for Gaming 2010

While selecting the best HDTV for gaming 2010, you need to decide between LED TV (Light Emitting Diode), LCD TV and Plasma TV. With the introduction of the new 3D technology, LED backlit TVs are selling like hot cakes. So here are some names of the best HDTVs for gaming.

• Samsung LN32A650 32
• Sony Bravia KDL-32XBR6
• Panasonic TC-37LZ800
• Samsung LN52A650
• Samsung LN52A650A
• Hannspree HG281DPB
• Sharp LC-32GP1U
• Sony KDS-R60XBR2
• Samsung LN-T4665F

I hope this article has answered your question of what is the best HDTV for gaming. If you are confused between LCD and plasma, then you need to first know what is the difference between plasma and LCD before deciding on one. For a better deal it's advisable to buy these TV sets on festive occasions and holidays.

Closed Captioning For Movie Theaters

Have you ever been to a crowded movie and been distracted by the audience? Between the whispering and laughing, popcorn crunching, and sometimes even cell phones ringing, outside noise can really ruin your movie-watching experience. Closed captioning would certainly solve this problem. As of right now, closed captioning is mandatory for virtually all television programs, as required by the FCC. Can movie theaters be far behind?

Consider all the benefits of closed captioning. Most importantly, closed captioning makes TV accessible for the deaf community. It can also be a helpful tool for those who don't have a good grasp on the English language. Finally, closed captioning is beneficial for any person who just wants to watch their favorite TV show among the distractions of everyday life. Now how would this translate to the big screen?

Of course, all the above benefits would still remain, but with the added element of the crowd. Movie theaters are crowded places. Closed captioning would alleviate those issues and make the experience a better one for everyone. Not to mention the benefits for the deaf community. In fact, ever since silent movies gave rise to the "talkies", the deaf and hard of hearing community have been excluded from a pastime that almost all Americans enjoy. With the integration of closed captioning, the deaf community would for the first time in their lives be able to enjoy an outing to the movies just as others have done for decades.

So, what strides are currently being taken to bring closed captions into America's movie theaters? Right now there are three technologies that are sparsely used for close captioning at the movies. They are: open captioning, rear window captioning, and cinema subtitling systems. The National Association for the Deaf (NAD), along with the Coalition for Movie Captioning (CMC) are currently working hard to incorporate these captioning systems into all movie theaters. They are establishing a set of standards for close captioning that must be adhered to, in terms of readability, font size, background, and color. Most importantly, though, they are working on formulating the terms of proposed national legislation to be passed by congress and signed by the President. This legislation would require close captioning for all movie theaters, similar to what the Federal Telecommunications Act did for television.

So just think-- perhaps sometime soon, you will be able to enjoy a movie without having to worry about missing critical parts due to distractions in the theater! In the meantime, companies such as Video Caption Corporation continue to provide the best in closed captioning for all television programs, including movies!

EBTB Terra MK3

My Thoughts

I had only a very limited time with the Terra MK3 with the SubTerranean at the IS Europe Exhibition. Through the endless stands its sound and looks captured me like Freddy Kruger grabbed so many teens through a TV or window when I passed the Everything but the Box stand. Ridiculous how so much sound and brilliance can come from something so wrong, or rather, out of the Box. Well worth considering if you want something different, something unique, something good.

Terra

Terra MK3

Aluminium enclosure 

Composite baffle 

Aluminium feet 

Aluminium pads 

Handle 

Aluminium horns 

Equalizer on the High Frequencies 

Gold plated connectors - Supra

Stainless steel logos

Specifications

Frequency response: 59-25kHz
Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
Sensitivity: 86db 1 watt/1 meter 
RMS Power: 150 W
Tweeter: 30 mm silk, neodymium
Bass-mid: 4” neodymium, shielded
Dimensions: 38 cm X 21 cm X 28 cm (H W D)
Weight: 5 Kg

Everything but the Box Collection

My thoughts

Everything but the Box, thinking out of the Box, their designs are of future and past alike. Meeting their representatives at the IS Exhibition 2012 showed me a company that is confident and passionate about their products which can be summed up as different in a unique but good way! Following is a collection of speakers and a look at the future...

TERRA

Terra MK3

Terra II

Terra C

LUNA

VENUS

Venus

VENUS LV

VENUS D

VENUS F

PLUTO

SPUTNIK

SubTerranean

The near Future...

The Venus, Pluto and  Luna speakers can be placed on top of this floor standing unit which needs  a signal from the amp as it is active. From there you connect the Venus, Pluto or Luna on the unit to give you a perfectly balanced self powered floor stander. Have to say they THINK OUT OF THE BOX.

Apologies for the photo quality. Here is Everything but the Box's international sales manager with an example of their new floor standing equipment.

How to Watch Live TV on Your Computer

Learn why and how to watch live TV on your computer. Driving through evening, home-bound, traffic can be a nightmare. When you reach home from work, it is most likely that the muscles of your forearms, palms and fingers are too tensed from gripping the steering wheel tightly. With the ears still ringing from the blaring horns, you open the door, with hunched shoulders, search the remote to put on your favorite TV show or radio channel. Are you still depending on the Cable TV or Dish networks satellite TV provider for your entertainment? What these entities offer you is limited entertainment, because, once you hire their services you cannot go beyond the TV channels they offer. Wake up man, it is time to know, how to watch live TV on your computer. It is an option that can release you from the being tied down to Dish and cable TV providers. Surely, you must have heard about Internet TV, which is also referred to as satellite Internet or PC satellite TV. If you are not too versatile with computers and Internet technology and want to know, "Is it possible to watch live TV on your computer?", go ahead and read about it.

Internet TV

Because of the advent in the Internet technology, you are now on the verge of being free to choose and watch any one of the 3,500 live TV channels that can be accessed through your desktop computer. The increased speed at which the information, now, flows across the Internet and the availability of the much bigger bandwidth than before, has made this thing possible. There are some website that are allowing the Internet users to access and view live TV show. Most of these website channels, unlike cable and dish TV providers, are not charging any fee to their user. The users can choose from not only American TV channels but can also search and view the channels that are transmitted for individuals living in the far away places like Asia, South Africa, Middle East, Europe and Australia. This facility gives a broad minded person, who is willing to devote time for learning about different cultures, customs and traditions, not only for more avenues of entertainment but also, a wide range of possibilities to explore. The information ranging from the archeology to zoology is transmitted on these channels which a person, with special interests at his heart, can find useful in satisfying his quest for the knowledge. This mode of watching the live TV channels is dubbed as the Internet TV and is considered as the prominent example of how Internet is a far more powerful tool of entertainment. In addition, the Internet TV allows you to listen to more than 13,000 radio channels.

How to Watch Live TV on Your Computer: Software

How to find these website channels on the Internet? One can use one of the search engines available to locate these websites and view the live TV programs he wants to. However, any Internet surfer can tell you that this a slow and time-consuming process. On the other hand, to save the time and efforts, one can use software that are available on the Internet which eases this process to a considerable degree. These software also offers access to certain movie libraries and facilitates watching movies online and that too, at free of cost. Don't get the impression that you will be involved in any illegal activity while doing so. The websites that allows you to watch free movies online without downloading them on the hard disc of your desktop or laptop have taken care of the legal aspect. Some of these software are free to download. If the downloading of these software can be done only after paying a charge, be sure to do it because when compared against the services obtained, it is worth it. Ask around and consult a few Internet geeks before paying money, so as not to get duped by the fakers which are now roaming the Internet. "How to watch live TV on my computer without access to a land line phone connection?", is a question that may come to a persons mind living in a mobile home.

The questions such as, "How to watch live TV on your computer, when you are mobile and cannot use a land line for Internet access?", or, "How to watch live TV on PC?" can be answered as follows. What you need to access these website channels is high speed Internet and a compatible PC or laptop. You may choose to equip yourself with a broadband Internet connection to do so in your home. Alternatively, if you are person who is on the move constantly then you can, by preferring wireless internet access by using USB modem and a computer can yourself thoroughly entertained by accessing the website channel.

Game Shows Online

Family Feud, Who Wants to be a Millionaire? Sound familiar? Yes folks, these are some of the most talked about and popular game shows. Even though some of the game shows have gone off the air, they are still one of the favorite shows for many. I remember when I was little, I used to watch Family Feud with my grandmother. She used to try so hard to get the first word on the board. Seeing that game on television, I would always cry in front of my parents and ask them to take me on it someday. But, as luck would have it, it didn't really go as I had planned. Even some of my childhood friends were crazy about it, and that gave us an idea of making our own Family Feud version. We would play that game for hours together and win pretend prizes. Well, all that was in the past and those games are long gone. But the other day, as I was searching for some online games to play on the computer, guess what? I actually found some online game shows.

I really couldn't believe my eyes that these long-forgotten games are available to play on the Internet. So what I did after that is probably not a mystery to anyone (considering I was rambling here about how I always wanted to play them for real). I turned my laptop on, searched for these online game shows, and immediately started playing them. It was probably like more than 2 hours later that I got up from my place and (tried) to get back to work. But it was the most fun I had in a very long time, and these games brought back some forgotten memories from my past. Perhaps you too loved these actual game shows and are searching the online versions of them. Well, in this article, we will tell you which games are available online, what are they all about, how it is played, and where to find these online game shows.

Play Game Shows Online

The best thing about these free online games, some are free trials and some you have to purchase, is that you get to play them and not just watch. These online game shows are extremely fun, great for passing time when bored, and very, very addictive (trust me). So turn your laptops/computers and prdpare yourselves for some fun.

Family Feud
If you have seen this game on television, then you know what kind of questions are asked. For example, the questions could be like "Name the loudest animal in the zoo", "Name something a woman might leave a lipstick mark on", or "Name a country that begins with the letter S."

Of course, there are many possible answers to these questions and to find the top response will get you the maximum points. So to play this game online, all you have to do is go to any website that caters these online game shows, register (only if you're 18 and over), and play for free, without any downloads. The only downfall is that there are too many casino ads coming in-between games that ruins the mood.

Wheel of Fortune
Are you feeling lucky? This game boils down to your luck and nothing else. Turn the wheel and see what your luck can strike. To play this game, you don't even have to register. But make sure you have Windows and Internet Explorer before you begin. In addition to the online version, you can also purchase its mobile version to play.

Weakest Link
You remember this British game show, don't you? I remember it specifically for the hostess, Anne Robinson. Her very famous line on the show "You are the weakest link...goodbye" still echoes in my head. And since this is the British version, your online game will consist of pound sterling and not dollars (although you don't actually win anything, it's fictitious). The goal of this game is to answer as many questions as you can correctly and reach the 1000 pound mark in the allotted time. Make the chain with 9 correct answers; but if you give 1 wrong answer, you will break the chain and have to start all over again.

Jeopardy
Do you love trivia games? Well Jeopardy has intelligent trivia questions on history and geography, arts and literature, science, sports, pop culture, and so much more. To play the game, you can download the 60 minute trial version first. You can purchase the mobile version as well.

Who Wants to be a Millionaire?
Let's Play Who Wants to be a Millionaire? To play this game, you get 30 seconds to answer the questions given and move further up the scoreboard. You won't get any actual prizes, but it's definitely fun to pretend. Similar to the original game, you will get 3 lifelines: 50/50, Phone a Friend, and Ask the Audience. Get ready to answer some awesome questions.

You can also include your family, along with kids to play these online game shows. As they have no adult content and are safe for kids, they make perfect choices for free online games for kids. So what are you waiting for? Get online and start playing.

New Harman Receivers AVR x65 Range

Harman Kardon AVR 158

With all the latest Dolby and DTS audio modes and HDMI v.1.4 with 3-D and Deep Colour, the AVR 158 lets you experience the next dimension in TV viewing – while Harman Kardon Logic 7 processing supplies you with an exhilarating, 5.1-channel, 360-degree soundstage for movies, TV shows and games. And with three HDMI inputs and extensive video and audio connectivity, the AVR 158 also grants you the flexibility to add a Blu-ray Disc player and surround-sound speaker system to the mix. Overall, the AVR 158 is a great starting-off point if you want a gratifying home theatre system.

Specification

Stereo Power - 60W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms

Multichannel Power (all channels driven) - 60W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms

Amplifier Type - High Instantaneous 

Current Capability - 25 Amps

THD - 0.07% @ 8 ohms

Ultrawide Bandwidth Design @ 1W (+0dB / –3dB) - 10-130

Signal-to-noise Ratio (IHF-A) - 100 dB

Slew Rate - 40V/μsec

Input Sensitivity/Impedance - 200mV/47k ohms

Dolby Digital Plus - 1

Dolby TrueHD - Dolby TrueHD

Dolby Digital - Dolby Digital

Dolby Pro Logic II with Movie, Music and Game Mode - Dolby Pro Logic II Mode Group

DTS-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio - 1

Logic 7 Processing with Movie, Music and Game Modes - 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz

Headphone Mode - 2-channel HARMAN HP

Television Format - PAL

Input Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Output Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Video Frequency Response (Composite/S-Video) - 10Hz - 8MHz (-3dB)

HDMI Input / Output - 3/1

HDMI 12-bit Deep Color - version 1.4a with 12-bit Deep Color

Power Requirement - AC 230V, 50Hz–60Hz, 100W

Power Consumption (full power/idle) - 540W / 250W rated

Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric/English) 165mm x 440mm x 385mm

Weight (Metric/English) 9.1kg

Harman Kardon AVR 165

With all the latest Dolby and DTS audio modes and HDMI v.1.4a with 3-D, Deep Colour and Audio Return Channel, the AVR 165 lets you experience the next dimension in TV viewing – while Logic 7 processing creates an exhilarating 5.1-channel, 360-degree soundstage for your movies, TV shows and games. And with four HDMI inputs, extensive video and audio connectivity, and the ability to connect with The Bridge IIP for iPod/iPhone playback, the AVR 165 gives you all the flexibility you need to configure a more than capable home theatre system.

Specification

Stereo Power - 95W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

Multichannel Power (all channels driven) - 95W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

Amplifier Type - High Instantaneous

Current Capability - 25 Amps

THD - 0.07% @ 8 ohms

Ultrawide Bandwidth Design @ 1W (+0dB / –3dB) - 10-130

Signal-to-noise Ratio (IHF-A) - 100 dB

Slew Rate - 40V/μsec

Input Sensitivity/Impedance - 200mV/47k ohms

Power Supply - AC 230V/50Hz – 60Hz

Output DACs - 192kHz/24-bit

Quad Crossover Bass Management - Quad Crossover Bass Management

Lip Sync Delay per Input - 180mS

EZ Set EQ Setup EzSet/EQ

Dolby Digital Plus - 1

Dolby TrueHD - Dolby TrueHD

Dolby Digital - 55dB

Dolby Pro Logic II with Movie, Music and Game Mode - 40dB

Dolby Volume - 1

Virtual Speaker - HARMAN virtual speaker

DTS-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio - 1

DTS 5.1 - 1

DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete & Matrix - 1

DTS 96/24 - 1

DTS Neo:6 - 1

Logic 7 Processing with Movie, Music and Game Modes - Logic 7 processing

Headphone Mode - 2-channel HARMAN HP

DSP Processor - Cirrus CS 497024

Television Format - PAL

Input Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Output Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Video Frequency Response (Composite/S-Video) - 10Hz – 8MHz (–3dB)

HDMI Input / Output - 4/1

HDMI Version - 1.4 a with 3D support

HDMI 12-bit Deep Color - Version 1.4a with 12-bit Deep Color

Component Video Input - 1 @ 100MHz (assignable)

Video Processing / Conversion - None

Power Requirement - AC 230V, 50Hz–60Hz, 100W

Power Consumption (full power/idle) - 540W / 280W rated

Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric/English) 165mm x 440mm x 385mm

Weight (Metric/English) 9.1kg

Harman Kardon AVR 265

With HDMI v.1.4a with 3-D, Deep Colour and Audio Return Channel, and all the latest Dolby and DTS audio modes, the AVR 265 lets you experience a new dimension in TV viewing – all while our own Logic 7 processing creates an exhilarating 360-degree soundstage via 7.1-channel surround sound. 

And this AVR does far more than just movies and soundtracks – it can even be set to power a Zone 2 speaker system for multiroom audio. With five HDMI inputs, extensive video and audio connectivity, and the ability to connect with The Bridge IIIP for iPod/iPhone playback, the AVR 265 solidifies itself as a versatile receiver that can accommodate your every entertainment whim with grace, style and ease.

Specification

Stereo Power - 95W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

Multichannel Power (all channels driven) - 95W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

High Instantaneous Current Capability - 35 Amps

THD - 0.07% @ 8 ohms

Ultrawide Bandwidth Design @ 1W (+0dB / –3dB) - 10-130

Signal-to-noise Ratio (IHF-A) - 100 dB

Slew Rate - 40V/μsec

Input Sensitivity/Impedance - 200mV/47k ohms

Power Supply - single

Output DACs - 192kHz/24-bit

Quad Crossover Bass Management - Quad Crossover Bass Management

Lip Sync Delay per Input - 180mS

EZ Set EQ Setup - EzSet/EQ

Dolby Digital Plus - 1

Dolby TrueHD - Dolby TrueHD

Dolby Digital - Dolby Digital EX

Dolby Pro Logic II with Movie, Music and Game Mode - Pro Logic IIx/Pro Logic IIz

Dolby Volume - 1

Virtual Speaker HARMAN virtual speaker

DTS-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio - 1

DTS 5.1 - 1

DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete & Matrix - 1

DTS 96/24 - 1

DTS Neo:6 - 1

Logic 7 Processing with Movie, Music and Game Modes - Logic 7 processing

Headphone Mode - 2-channel HARMAN HP

DSP Processor - Cirrus CS 49700

Television Format - PAL/NTSC

Input Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Output Level/Impedance - 1Vp-p/75 ohms

Video Frequency Response (Composite/S-Video) - 10Hz – 8MHz (–3dB)

HDMI Input / Output - 5/1

HDMI Version - 1.4 a with 3D support

HDMI 12-bit Deep Color - version 1.4a with 12-bit Deep Color

Video Processing / Conversion - Faroudja DCDi Cinema scaling to 1080p

Power Requirement - AC 230V, 50Hz–60Hz, 100W

Power Consumption (full power/idle) - 840W / 420W rated

Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric/English) - 165mm x 440mm x 385mm

Weight (Metric/English) - 11.1kg

Harman Kardon AVR 365

With HDMI v.1.4a with 3-D and all the latest Dolby and DTS audio modes, the AVR 365 lets you experience a new dimension in TV viewing while also giving you the benefit of Harman Kardon Logic 7 processing which helps create a 360-degree soundstage through 7.1-channels of surround sound. And just know: This AVR does far more than just movies and soundtracks. Revel in the fact that you can now play music in another zone of the house using the receiver’s multiroom audio functionality. And with six HDMI inputs (including one on the front panel), extensive video and audio connectivity, and the ability to connect with The Bridge IIIP for iPod/iPhone playback, the AVR 365 solidifies itself as a versatile receiver that can accommodate your every entertainment whim with grace, style and ease.

Specification

Stereo Power - 10W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

Multichannel Power (all channels driven) - 110W per channel, two channels driven @ 8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz

High Instantaneous Current Capability - 35 Amps

THD - 0.07% @ 8 ohms

Ultrawide Bandwidth Design @ 1W (+0dB / –3dB) - 10-130

Signal-to-noise Ratio (IHF-A) - 100 dB

Slew Rate - 40V/μsec

Input Sensitivity/Impedance - 200mV/47k ohms

Power Supply - single

Output DACs - 192kHz/24-bit

Quad Crossover Bass Management - Quad Crossover Bass Management

Lip Sync Delay per Input - 180mS

EZ Set EQ Setup - EzSet/EQ

Dolby Digital Plus - 1

Dolby TrueHD - Dolby TrueHD

Dolby Digital - Dolby Digital EX

Dolby Pro Logic II with Movie, Music and Game Mode - Pro Logic IIx/Pro Logic IIz

Dolby Volume - 1

Virtual Speaker - HARMAN virtual speaker

DTS-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio - 1

DTS 5.1 - 1

DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete & Matrix - 1

DTS 96/24 - 1

DTS Neo:6 - 1

Logic 7 Processing with Movie, Music and Game Modes - Logic 7 processing

Headphone Mode - 2-channel HARMAN HP

DSP Processor - Cirrus CS 49700

Power Requirement - AC 220–240V/50Hz

Power Consumption (full power/idle) - 910W / 480W rated

Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric/English) - 165mm x 440mm x 385mm

Weight (Metric/English) - 12.4 kg

TV Commercials Tied to Childhood Obesity

It probably won't surprise parents that the amount of TV their children watch can impact the ability to maintain a healthy weight. After all, watching TV is a sedentary activity, so the more TV a kid watches, the less exercise he or she gets. However, parents must also be aware that the type of TV children watch can have an enormous effect on childhood obesity.

In February 2010, the UCLA School of Public Health issued a press release titled "Childhood Obesity: It's not the amount of TV, it's the number of junk food commercials." Researchers Frederick J. Zimmerman and Janice F. Bell found that children who watch commercial TV programming with junk food commercials are more likely to be overweight than children who watch other types of TV.

Everyone has experienced the siren call of the refrigerator after a commercial for a popular snack chip. The viewer sees the ad, feels a pang of hunger, and checks the pantry. Children have less impulse control than adults, and less awareness of the consequences of their actions.

And children are bombarded with junk food commercials.

For every half-hour television program, there are about eight minutes of commercials. Adult programs come with ads for cars and life insurance and all sorts of things that won't make anyone gain weight, but commercials during children's programs advertise toys and food, and that's about it. This wouldn't matter so much if the food ads touted the benefits of leafy green vegetables and smaller portion sizes. But no, the food commercials advertise high sugar, high fat, high salt, high calorie foods with little to no nutritional value. Junk.

The ads are loud, bright, and entertaining, and they feature attractive people singing catchy little songs that kids hear over and over again in their heads. At the grocery store, many kids sing jingles or re-enact commercials when they see a heavily promoted product. That's a good sign that the children are being brainwashed by junk food companies, and it's the parents' job to put a stop to it.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no TV viewing whatsoever for children under the age of 2. For older children, they recommend no more than 1-2 hours of TV... but specifically of educational, nonviolent TV. To that, I'll add my own personal recommendation that children avoid commercial TV altogether. If parents find that to be impossible, then I recommend that at a minimum, they develop a family habit of muting the TV during commercials.

According to the UCLA study, "Non-commercial viewing, including watching DVDs or educational television programming, had no significant association with obesity."

Parents on a budget can often get DVDs for free at their local library, or purchase used DVDs at yard sales and video stores. Even if the children watch the same programs on DVD that they would have been watching on TV, they won't be tempted by the commercials.

Children may complain about the change in their routine, but parents should stand firm as they remember the long-term goal of helping their child to reach and maintain a healthy weight. This is one change that every parent can make, and that will show positive, measurable results.

Biography of Emma Roberts

Emma Roberts is the teen star who earned fame after the success of her popular TV series, Unfabulous, on Nickelodeon. Coming from the family of film stars, Emma wanted to work in movies from the time she was a little girl. She is not only famous for her acting skills, but also for her musical talents. Although Emma started her acting career at the tender age of 10, she attaches lot of importance to education. She has a private tutor who teaches her for three hours everyday, and is also planning to attend college, to pursue higher education.

Background and Education
Emma Roberts was born on February 10, 1991 in Rhinebeck, New York, to film actor Eric Roberts and Kelly Cunningham. Her parents where not married when she was born and separated soon after her birth due to problems in their relationships. Emma lived with her mother most of her life and attended the Archer School for Girls, till the seventh grade.

Film and Music Career
Emma is known to be very close to her aunt, Academy Award Winner Julia Roberts, since she was a little girl, and used to accompany her to shooting locations. This triggered in her a wish to become an actress, but her mother opposed this as she was just a child. However, her debut movie Blow was released in 2001, where she starred as the daughter of the talented actor, Johnny Depp. Later, Robert acted in a short film and also did minor roles in some films.

In 2003, Emma was offered the role as a lead character, 'Addie Singer' in the show Unfabulous, in Nickelodeon. This television show became a great hit among teenagers and made Emma, a teen idol. She also gained a Teen Choice Award nomination for her role in this television series. Her character, in this TV sitcom, encouraged her to begin her music career. On September 27, 2005 her first music album, 'Unfabulous and More: Emma Roberts' was released.

After her successful stint in television, Emma returned to movies with the movie, Aquamarine, in 2006. The same year, she also acted in the movie, Nancy Drew, as the main character. January 2009, saw the release of her film, Hotel For Dogs, which collected a whooping 114 million dollars at the box office. Her movie, Lymelife, was premiered at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. Emma's future projects include Nancy Drew Sequel and Rodeo Gal.

Personal Life
Emma, though a teen star, is no different from other teenagers. She loves reading, swimming, playing guitar and volleyball. Anne Hathaway and Gwyneth Paltrow are her favorite actresses and considers them as her role models. Rupert Grint, who plays Ron in the Harry Potter movie is her favorite actor. Emma has not been in the media glare for anything other than her career. However, she has drawn media attention, during several interviews, for making remarks on other movie stars.

Besides her career in movies and television, Emma is also a brand ambassador for Neutrogena, a cosmetic company. She has designed a Dooney and Bourke bag, which is popular as Emma bag. Emma is also known to have done charity work and has made huge contributions to the Children's Cancer Research Fund.

Emma Roberts is already a teen star, but the ambitions of this confident and pretty actress does not end here. She wants to be a versatile and successful actress like her aunt, but by creating her own independent identity in Hollywood.