Thursday, 28 April 2011

Power Meter - electric consumption, energy


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This is a great way to bring the "Prius Effect" into your house... you can totally geek out, annoy your children, and alienate your spouse by watching a graph of your energy consumption while pointing at the culprit disapprovingly.



Or perhaps, you could put an "Energy Jar" in the center of the living room where you can collect funds for your next trip to Disneyland or start that fund to buy everyone extra sweaters and blankets as you crank down the thermostat during the winter.



The basic utility of the device is to show you when energy is getting used and potentially identify areas to improve. If you see something happening at 3AM every night, but everyone's asleep and it's winter, perhaps your irrigation system is still running (even though the water is turned off).



A tip: anything with an "analog" clock or timer is chewing up energy. My front-loading washer eats energy while doing nothing (there may be a solenoid holding a door lock open). My microwave eats almost as much energy as my laptop just telling me the time. How you "solve" those problems will definitely depend on how popular you'd like to be in your house.





Depending on your energy "rate structure", you may be able to identify ways to stay out of certain "zones" where things cost more. I live in a place with "Tiered" rates. When you exceed one level, the price per kWhr goes up. So, peak use doesn't matter as much as reducing the "base load" of the house.



I was able to identify a hundred watts of power vampires (and maybe more) in surprising locations, and verify their effect with this setup. By turning those things off, I might stay out of the next higher energy rate tier. If you live in a "time of use" rate area, you might use the data differently.



The point is - with this setup, your data is WAY BETTER than the power company's data - in that, you can see it every few seconds and it's pretty accurate. But, I wouldn't try arguing your bill with it...





This unit works with both the Black and Decker (Black & Decker EM100B Energy Saver Series Power Monitor) and BlueLine Power Cost Monitor sensors.



Note that this unit is also now compatible with Google PowerMeter, but I still prefer Microsoft Hohm. You can't seem to use both at once.



Also, and this is important, this unit absolutely REQUIRES 802.11b wireless support on your router. Some new routers do NOT support "Mixed Mode" (e.g. 802.11b/g, a/b/g, b/g/n etc.) connection. If yours does not, you will be stuck using 802.11b for your network.





The setup was fairly straightforward. When I installed the software, it found a new version of the firmware for the unit and installed it without issue.



One thing to note is that the instructions tell you to "Hold the Reset button until the light stays RED" on the unit in order to get it to pair with your sensor that's out on the power meter.



Don't do that. If you hold the reset button too long, it will erase all the programming you just did on it.



It appears to me that the unit is ready to pair as soon as you disconnect it from the computer and move it to where you'll be "installing" it (near the power meter). The light blinks red and amber at that point. Pressing the reset button didn't change the blinking pattern, and pressing the button on the sensor outside on the power meter immediately paired the WiFi device to the power meter sensor.





One thing to note is that this unit has a very informative web page inside it. It will tell you things about the current link status of your connection to Microsoft Hohm or Google Power Meter, the battery level in your power meter sensor, and the signal strength of that connection.



The device's web page also automatically refreshes the data more quickly than the Hohm site. But it will ONLY SHOW YOU DATA IF YOU USE A SECURE WIFI NETWORK. They warn you about this in the package. But it's just a helpful reminder in case you don't use at least WEP security. Some people scratch their heads when they see a blank page, but Hohm has their data somehow.



I chose to assign the device a FIXED IP address on my router so that I could always get to that web page. If you use DHCP, the Hohm connection will be fine, but your device might drift around your network when your router resets itself. You can fix a DHCP address in your router or in the device setup. Doing it in the router may require re-doing the device setup just because of how your router behaves, so I'd recommend doing it in the device setup.



The device seemed to survive a power outage, and Hohm reconnected as soon as the power came back on.



So, now that you can see all your data, go out and hunt for power vampires! Blue Line Innovations BLI 31100 PowerCost Monitor WiFi Gateway

It does the job, but can sure be annoying to get configured. The fact that it is only 802.11b and flakey with some newer routers is also a pain - but I've managed to make it work with my gear (mostly). I found going with a static IP setup to be the best route. I think overall it's probably about $50 overpriced. - Electric Consumption - Energy - Microsoft - Energy-saving Devices
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Iphone Clock Radio - iphone clock radio, ipod clock radio


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First time in ages I've had to read the instructions for a clock step-by-step, but it was oh-so-worth-it. How nice to charge my iPhone on my nightstand and not have to fumble for it in the morning, and even better, to awaken to music of my own choosing! The display is easy to read, the iPhone fits snugly and easily into the dock, and now that I've figured out how it works, it'll be fine. I'll want to keep the instructions on hand, though, for future reference (but the fact that it's not intuitive will help keep it safe from my college-aged daughter who likes to steal everything when she comes home on the weekend). The speakers sound much better than I expected for a clock this size, too--another pleasant surprise. Sony ICF-C05iP Clock Radio for iPod (White)

Sony ICF-C05iP Clock Radio for iPod (White)



My favorite thing about this alarm clock is not the ipod feature which is why I purchased it, but it's the different settings for the display. The display can be bright, dim, dimmer or off with a tap to the snooze button.

I also agree with the first reviewer that it was not and intuitive set-up. I had to refer to the set of instructions for the first time in years!

Ourchased as Christmas gift and went over like gang busters! This is a great IPOD Alarm Clock. Lots of features...has multiple dimmer settings for the display, summer DST button in back (just push and is set for daylight savings time, and they found it fairly easy to set up. They really loved the small footprintof the clock. It is not more than 5" L and 4" W. Very nice and great price!

Awesome look (I've white one) - compact size - works great with iPod 3rd Gen iPhone 3GS - Radio, FM - Alarm and most importantly alarm with ipod/iphone music :) - mornings are melodious !!

I would give 5/5 for the look and size, 3/5 for the sound quality (I'm use to Harman-Kardon), 4/5 for feaatures it has. It lags the AUX input, not able to connect my Samsung Galaxy S using Aux cable :( - probably they could make the driver supporting it......but over all pretty good job by SONY!!

After I finally got an iPod nano, I decided I wanted a radio for it, one that included an alarm. I looked through review after review of models by iHome, RCA, Sony, and others. I didn't want to spend too much money, since I would only use it for the alarm and occasionally as a radio. I have had a Sony CD Clock/Radio for nearly 10 years, and until this past year, it worked great (the CD player finally died, but the clock and radio still work.). I decided to get this model at Christmas, and I have been very pleased with it so far. The sound is surprisingly good for such a small speaker set. I have no trouble setting the alarm to just the song I want, and while some have complained that it is difficult to work initially, I had no problem with it. As long as this little thing works at its current level for a year or two, I will be supremely satisfied with it. I would definitely recommend this to others, and buy another down the road. Works with the latest generation nano, though it is not listed on the specs.

What I like about this alarm clock is that it keeps my iPod charged and ready to go while allowing me to wake to the music I choose. I also appreciate that when the power goes out and comes back on my clock still has the correct time. That said, there are several things about this unit that I do not like.

As with previous reviewers I had to "read the instructions" and they are not intuitive so I too need to continue keeping the instructions near the clock.

I was initially drawn by the bright or less bright feature of the display but the reality is that I simply can't read this clock - at any brightness - without my glasses on at night - a problem I did not have when I was using a colored LCD display. It may simply be that this clock is not for folks with astigmatism. For those without eyesight difficulties this should present no problem.

I bought this radio for my bathroom because it was small, had a clock, and had a dock for my IPod. I was so pleasantly surprised that I could actually use the radio. We live in a rural area about 40 minutes away from the radio stations we can listen to. There is no radio in our house that can get good reception from any of these stations. I didn't expect this radio to be any different and was just planning on listening to my IPod. This radio gets great reception and now I mainly listen to the radio stations on it. I would definitely recommend this radio.

The little (in shelf space) clock/radio is a great buy, as value for price. The sound is very good for the small speaker, the dial light dims completely. There are more than enough station memories, but setting them up is a little tiring. There are just two iPod inserts/adapters and none fits the iPod video 5G (which you have to use without an adapter and becomes sort of loose). It's a good buy and I'd recommend it if you don't care for total hi-fi.

The battery that came with the clock appears to be dead, or that function doesn't work - I don't know because I'm too lazy to go find a new battery for it since it's one of those flat ones. (AAA would have been nice!) Also, for some reason I didn't even think to check to make sure this was a feature until I got the clock, but you can not set the day/s of the week for the alarm to go off and also there is only one alarm. Besides that - this little clock has been great. Just the right size, loud alarm, dimmable display, iPhone 3GS dock...it's great. - Ipod Alarm Clock - Ipod Clock Radio - Clock Radio - Iphone Clock Radio
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How to choose a 3D TV that is best for you

In christmas 2010 saying a success in the sales of 3D TV bundles with a cascade of wonderful deals geared towards those buying for the holiday season. Luckily, this means that prices have stayed quite competitive and you can still pick up a nice deal on the latest models.

Choice the cheapest 3D TV can often be a part of a trawl; some online cost comparison sites are so keen to have you pay for the click that you often find that the deal isn ' t quite as amazing as you first idea, and finding the right one can end up being as time excessive as physically travelling between shops and comparing the offers yourself.

The cheapest is also rarely the best and worth the differences in the technology, whether it be a Samsung or a Panasonic 3D TV, can be low. The aim of this article is to give you the basics on what to look for to select the 3D TV.



Choose the right size TV

The first thing to do is trick what specification would suit you best, initial with size. It can be simple to fall into the trap of wanting a 50 - inch TV, but it ' s rarely worth the extra cost if it 's going to use a tiny living room.

Take a tape act to the area where you want your television to go and give it a quick feeling. Remember that the number of inches attributed to a screen is measured diagonally and not horizontally, otherwise you may think that a smaller television is enough.

If you want the television to sit on a wall, make allowances in cost for wall mounting kits. Some offers will bundle one with it, but you may select that they are a rather costly add on, especially if you are planning on buying a really big screen. Alternatively, if you are planning on investing in a new shelf, the same applies.

Once you have set on what sort of size you 're looking for, you will want to make sure you are getting the much out of your new television. 3D TV sets come with a variance of different settings and add - ons and these can be the separation between getting a truly great deal and not.

Which type of display?

The first thing you may need to decide on is which screen type you wanting. There are usually three varied choices; you can either choose a liquid crystal display ( LCD ), a plasma screen or a light emitting diode ( LED ) television.

An LCD screen will last for a long time and regularly omits a very clear image, although these are usually a little more expensive than plasma screens. Plasmas do look sharp and will produce a high quality image, but they may eventually need replacing and are passable to image burning when a still image is left on the television for an lengthy period of time.

The latest revilement in television screens is LED technology. An LED television is actually fitted with an LCD screen but use LEDs as a backlight, which improves colour reproduction and contrast ratios. You will find that most of the latest televisions are using this technology, but it will add a few extra pounds to the cost.

For those looking for an all-round solution that will last, a standard LCD set should do, but if you want something with a little more clarity, then the LED may be what you need.

Resolution is often something that those buying a new television set may miss out on; the higher the resolution, the clearer the picture will be displayed. Resolution is the total number of other specks of colour ( pixels ) shown by a television set and a few extra hundred can really make the separation in an picture. This is less specialized if you are planning on using the television for just watching, but for those who plan on gaming or connecting a computer screen, this can be a high priority.

Multimedia feature

Another weighty thing to note is any extras that you may have built into the set. Some of the latest televisions can play digital media, such as MP3 files or movies, on target from a memory stick. Others even boast the ability to connect to the Internet, allowing you to check your email, Facebook or catch up with the latest in on - demand television using services such as the BBC iPlayer. These add - ons can be exceptionally useful and great worth a few extra quid in the continued run.

3D glasses

Finally, the cost of extra 3D glasses has to be built into the overall payment of the product. You may find a television at a discount price but find that you only receive one pair bundled with the set. If you can find a deal with a few more pairs bundled then it might be worthwhile, otherwise check out the cost of an extra pair as the standard price is normally.

Charging Cradle - cradle, accessory


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This is a nice enough product; stylish, holds phone horizontally, heavier than you'd expect with a non-skid bottom. Problem is, that's all it is. There is no charger included as I had assumed. You either have to use the charger or the USB charging/sync cable that came with your phone. I wanted a second charger for my desk so I could keep the one that came with the phone in my briefcase or suitcase. Not sure it's pretty enough to justify almost $30 with shipping. BlackBerry Desktop Charge,Sync Pod for BlackBerry Storm 9500 and 9530 (Does not work with Storm2 9550 and 9520)

This device as others have noted does not fit the Storm 2 - 9550, and Amazon should quickly fix the merchandise materials to reflect this as other Storm 2 buyers will all have to go through the same fate of buying and returning this device.

Pros: It works, I use my storm as my alarm clock now. The storm fits snugly into the device. I've even seen pictures where a person had this in their car, but it takes some DIY skills.



Cons: You won't be able to use it if you have your storm in a case.



Other Thoughts: I wish it had a headphone jack then I could use it as a bedside MP3 player. You can still access the jack on the phone but it would be nice if it was in the dock.

I bought this charger for my Storm and recently upgraded to the Storm 2. I can hardly blame the manufacturer for creating a product that does not work with RIM's future line of phones but it does not work with my new Storm2. It works great for the Storm so 5 stars!



The charger will not work with the Storm2 9530 however. There is a anti-slip grip that is designed into the phone's casing which makes the phone a little more bulky than the Storm in that one area of the case. The Storm2 overall is smaller and more light-weight than the Storm. Regardless it doesn't work with the 9530.

I just received the sync pod, but cannot use it. The unit looks good and has a nice weight, but the Storm 2 will not seat on the charge plug. You have to press the Storm 2 quite firmly to get the charger to start (as evidenced by the clock showing on the screen). Once you release the pressure on the phone, it springs up, off the plug and charging stops. RIM's website states that the dimensions are the same for the Storm 2 and the Storm, but my phone won't work on the charge/sync pod.



I will be returning it for a refund. It is too bad - the concept is a good one. RIM needs to revise the dimensions of the sync pod so that the Storm 2 will fit.

Very convenient charging stand. By docking it and putting your phone on clock mode while charging, it doubles as a desktop clock. Once your phone is fully charged, however, it turns off. The charger integrates with your current charger. This is NOT a stand alone charger. You plug in your existing charger to the base. This unit merely lets you keep it in horizontal position so you can use it as a desktop clock.

I've never reviewed anything on Amazon before, but I had to write about this product. I love it. It's great quality, has a nice rubberized pad that protects the surface of your nightstand or table, and it has a good amount of weight to it -- it's not flimsy at all.

This is a great accessory for your BlackBerry Storm. When you put your Storm in the charger it turns it into a great table clock with huge numbers that are very easy to read and bright, all the time keeping your Storm fully charged. I love it!

This is the perfect docking station for the bb storm. It connects perfectly and brings up all my BB info on the computer right away. Changes screen on the BB to clock mode so you have a clock while it's attached to the dock. I love it, it works great and the shipping was really fast. Thank you! - Cradle - Accessory - Blackberry - Charger
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Sidekick


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Because in my humble opinion, the phone is fun. I'm so sick of touch phones I couldn't bear my TMobile Mytouch 3g anymore. The thing was a pain, force close, slow, etc. I wanted a full keyboard again. People seem to love smaller, because admittedly, it's more accessible. However, just forego the body glove on this phone, and it still fits in your pants pocket. I tend to think bigger phones get taken better care of, because you're more aware of it. My phone doesn't force close. It's incredibly fast. I enjoy Media Hub app, which allows me to purchase or rent movies right to my phone. For the inability to see in broad daylight, turn the light up on your phone. I did and mine works fine.

Being able to text and surf the web at warp speeds has been very enjoyable. I've found the phone to have some things that seem bulky or what not, but all in all nothing is ever perfect. So I'm rating this 5 stars. T-Mobile Sidekick 4G Android Phone, Matte Black (T-Mobile)

I used to have the previous Danger sidekicks, the original sidekick and the sidekick id. I was thrilled when Tmobile debuted with the new sidekick. It's not at all like the old sidekicks, the only thing in common with them is the screen flipping up. It's very easy to manage and I love all the android apps. It is more bulky than other phones, but not so much that it's an issue. Plus, this sidekick is a touchscreen. also, as a side note it's manufactured by Samsung. I definitely recommend the phone. It's highly customizable.

I was looking to replace a MyTouch 3g with a modestly priced touch screen phone. That phone turned out to be the Sidekick 4G with its physical keyboard. And as for the Pros, that keyboard ended up being the only major plus. But other minor positives were a responsive touch screen, long battery life, and the Wi-Fi calling.



Here's the NEGATIVES: It's big, it's heavy, it feels slightly cheap, the USB/charging slot cover is annoying to open, the phone charger is extremely cheap, the camera is only 3g with no flash, poorly placed buttons, poor volume control, the Cloud Text feature is a joke, and the screen is virtually unreadable in sunlight.



Let me explain. This heavy and bulky phone will not fit into any cell phone holder your midsized car has to offer. Plus, it leans quite far out of the cup holder. The plastic case and the big buttons give it a cheaper feel. When going to charge the phone, if you don't have a decent fingernail, you'll never get the USB cover open. The charger is so cheap you'd think it was a replacement knock-off. The camera takes decent pics, but using it is a complete pain. First, the physical camera button is placed opposite the power button. So when you go to take a photo, you accidently turn off the phone. And because of the phone's size, you need to use both hands and your other hand tends to get into the camera shot. The loud speaker can be great when needed, but it should be responsive. I've had the volume one notch above vibrate and the email notification was still audible 10 feet away. The touted Cloud Texting was a major selling point for me so I tried it via my iPad 2 - pitiful. The website layout and text functionality was poor. I'd be embarrassed to advertise it. And lastly, I was floored when I walked outside and literally had to find shade in order to vaguely see the icons on the screen.



I've had the phone for 2 days and it's going right back.

This phone is a joke!! Very bulky and cheap feeling. I am on my second phone and am still having problems with the screen going black and becoming unresponsive. This requires a reboot every time. The battery life is decent, even with all notifications and syncs turned off. Charging takes about 5 hours to fully charge from 20% battery remaining. Text notification sounds randomly change, which is very annoying. Screen is hard to see outdoors, even at brightest setting. Save your money and buy a better phone!

hey the thing is that im from latinamerica and i wanna get one of this phones but i have not idea if this cell phone can be used in my country, please can you tell me if this phone is unlocked already for be used at any country? and if it is not, can you tell me the price of this phone unlocked? and where can i get it? thanks a sorry for my intent of english
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About 3D DLP HDTVs

Home entertainment has changed to 3D DLP HDTVs

Turn on your fresh 3D DLP HDTV, slide on your active 3D glasses, and view the images jump off the high definition screen also into your home theater. The greatest speed of the DLP chip, combined with 3D technology, makes it all workable.

Actuality games and movies like never before

Think playing a game with characters and objects that appear to surround you. Or immerse yourself in a movie that spills right into your alive room. That’s the magic of 3D ready DLP HDTVs. Even when you ' re not watching 3D topic, you’ll see the high definition quality of your DLP HDTV.

DLP HDTVs are the perfect package full HD and 3D capable at a price you can render.

DLP HDTVs are cool for offering perhaps the best full HD, 1080p image quality. With 3D ready capability, your TV is ready for all the 3D matter that is becoming more familiar every day. When you add the optional 3D add on kit, you can enjoy a nice selection of 3D movies and hundreds of PC games today and you’ll have element you need to enjoy future 3D topic. Plus, DLP HDTVs offer perhaps the prime “price–per–inch” of any HDTV making them the perfect big screen HDTVs at an affordable price.

Images so rightful, it’s like you’re there

DLP technology delivers crystal clear, razor - sharp and dynamic images for the ultimate in image quality. DLP technology is capable of extremely high contrast ratios providing a sweet viewing experience - crisper whites, ultra - rich blacks and images that "pop" on-screen.


Want to see 3D HDTV today?
Setting up your DLP HDTV for 3D viewing is quick and easy.
  • Connect your 3D DLP HDTV to a compatible 3D source
  • Plug the transmitter into the HDTV VESA sync port
  • Place the DLP HDTV into 3D mode
  • Put on your active 3D glasses
  • Enjoy!!!

Nikon D3000 - digital slr, nikon dslr


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Looking over several cameras and choosing one for someone who has outgrown point and shoots, I came back to the Nikon D3000. By no means will this model blow away the seasoned photographer, however it does cover the basics and more. We picked it up and tried it out over the weekend.



First time DSLR users will enjoy the Guide Mode. It literally walked us through different shoot scenarios via the fixed 3" LCD screen. An excellent tool, its step by step instructions allowed my niece to move from the operating booklet in no time. After a few more runs, I am sure that she will feel quite comfortable shooting in the manual mode. The quick shutter release was a nice surprise.



Upon completing two days of shooting with the Nikon D3000, I walked away impressed. In manual mode, indoor shots were a balanced and perfect mix of shadow and color. As usual with shooting in low light, noise will make an appearance. However this system can be tweaked to deliver some outstanding indoor photographs. The bottom line is proper settings.



A basic fix is the VR (Vibration Reduction) feature located on the lens. This should be activated, especially indoors. A tripod will certainly help. In auto mode, just set the camera to night portrait and sit back and enjoy the rest of your flight.



Outdoor shots were vibrant, sharp and rich in color without editing. The onboard flash system was more than capable in meeting fill flash requirements. Without a doubt the overall performance of the camera, features and image quality is excellent.



With 10.2 megapixels to work with, I easily blew up a personal favorite my niece had taken to 16" x 20". Even though I don't see myself trading in my Nikon D300 for this model anytime soon, this camera is by far an upgrade over any of the souped up point and shoots out there.



Its easy to see that the real jewel in this model is the auto focus system. With six auto mode settings (Landscape, Sports, Child, Closeups, Portrait, and Night Portrait) each and every photograph can be a keeper. Onboard editing tweakers won't be disappointed with this model. It covers the basics. The D3000 operates with both SD & SDHC cards.



The Nikon D3000 is paired with a Nikkor 18-55mm AF-S DX lens. It will operate with any Nikkor DX and AF-S lens. Older Nikkor or similar AF lens is a no go when shooting in auto but will function in manual mode. Since this model is not fitted with the built in optical image stabilizer, I recommend switching on the Vibration Reduction (VR) feature located on the lens. Still the best anti vibration tool is a tripod.



Nikon makes it really simple with a thumb dial for tweaking aperture and shutter speed. Metering, focus modes, and exposure compensation are easily controlled via the menu. The D3000 does not shoot in video mode. This model easily shoots over three frames per second in continuous mode. The 3D tracking sensor operates quite well in low lighting.



The Nikon D3000 camera kit comes packaged with a EN/EL3e Li-ion battery, charger, USB cable, video cable. strap, eye cap, eye cup, software CD-ROM, 18-55mm Nikkor lens, lens cap, instruction booklet and a one year Nikon warranty.



Coming out of the gate, I still find this model a little pricey for a basic DSLR. I am sure heading into the fall and holidays buyers will begin to see a noticeable price drop. Even so, the D3000 is a fine tuned replacement for the immensely popular entry level Nikon D40. Newcomers to the DSLR community will certainly enjoy this outstanding alternative. Nikon D3000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

My good old point-and-shoot camera (one of the Canon PowerShot series) had served me faithfully, but I was growing frustrated with its limitations. It seemed SO slow -- I was always missing great shots of my kids. The low-light performance was not particularly good. And I knew if I ever wanted to take more than basic family snapshots, I was going to need to bite the bullet and buy a DSLR. But they seemed so intimidating!



After doing a ton of research online and trying out my sister-in-law's slightly older Nikon D40, I settled on the new D3000. And I love it! It really is easier to use than I could've imagined, and the shots I've gotten so far are amazing. I have no photographic training, but I am really delighted with the pictures I've been getting so far. I never could have imagined there would be SUCH a huge difference. I've actually gotten -sharp- pictures of my toddler in motion, rather than just kid-shaped blurs! I took it to a local park last night for a couple hours and took some really nice photos there, too.



Some things you might want to know if you, like me, are new to DSLRs:



* Everything you need is in the box (flash, lens, camera body, camera strap, manual, etc.) -except- for a memory card. You'll need to get an SD or SHDC card to use with your camera. These are quite affordable. Of course, you may WANT more lenses, etc., later, but the kit lens is very nice, and offers a decent amount of flexibility. I would suggest, however, get a lens filter to help protect the lens,



* The D3000 comes with a "Guide" -- it helps you choose what effect you're looking for (freeze motion, blur background, etc.) and then helps you pick the right settings. But even just on "auto" mode, it takes some really fabulous pictures.



* Even as a relatively small DSLR, it's definitely bigger and heavier than most point-and-shoots. This wasn't a big issue to me, as I mostly plan to use it at home, but if you want something you can stick in your pocket, a DSLR may not be for you. (I plan to keep my old point-and-shoot as a backup for times when I want something I can just stow in my purse.)



* The D3000 does not have "Live View," where you can frame your shot in the LCD screen. I was a little concerned about this at first, but surprisingly, I've found that I really don't miss it at all. It also does not have video mode (which I find I don't miss, either, because I've always hated taking videos with a camera! They come out all shaky for me.)



* The included printed manual is pretty short and sweet. There is a manual on CD included that is much more complete. Neither, of course, really explains DSLRs in depth or photographic principles, so if you'd really like to learn more about using your camera to its fullest, I'd suggest Digital SLR Cameras and Photography For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) and Digital Photography Workbook For Dummies (For Dummies (Sports & Hobbies)). The former does a great job of explaining how your camera works, why DSLRs are different from point-and-shoots, how to care for your camera, and what accessories you may want. The latter has tons of hands-on exercises to help you learn your way around your camera and improve your photography.



In short, if you'd like to jump into the DSLR pond, the D3000 is definitely an excellent introduction. Come on in -- the water's great! - Digital Slr - Nikon Dslr - Nikon - D3000
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