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Digital Voice Recorder
PDA
QWERTY Keyboard
Remote Control
What is a Digital Voice Recorder?
A digital voice recorder is a small device used to record voice and other audio signals without the use of tapes. A digital voice recorder can often edit and sort recordings as well as store them.
What are some of the advantages of recording with a Digital Voice Recorder?
A digital voice recorder offers excellent recording quality; many even have noise cancellation features and stereo recording/playback. Most can store between 40 and 200 hours of recordings without the need to buy tapes. Many can also transfer recordings to PC and offer ease of use through voice activation.
What does a Digital Voice Recorder cost?
There is a vast range in the number of functions and complexity of these devices, thus the price range is also vast. Like many electronics devices digital voice recorders are sometimes multitasking; for instance, they may also possess video or camera functions. A simple digital voice recorder can cost around $50 while a higher end model might cost in the neighborhood or $600.
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What is a PDA?
A PDA is a Personal Digital Assistant; a small, handheld, electronic organizer. These devices allow users to store and organize information such as to do lists, lists of contacts, a calendar, and appointments. A PDA can be a stand alone device or it may be incorporated into a "smart phone". A PDA has a touch screen or keyboard user interface.
Are there other functions a PDA provides?
As indicated above a PDA can be integrated into a cell phone, as well as other electronic devices, and can function as such. Some have internet browser software and allow users to access the internet and send/retrieve e-mail. Some are wireless, others are not; many can connect to a desktop or laptop PC. A PDA may also be capable of running word processing programs, spreadsheets and other multimedia software. Some can take voice memos or act as a GPS device. Other features available on some PDA's include games, music and video playback, and camera functions.
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I want to purchase a new remote control, how much should I expect to spend?
It will depend on what features you want your new remote control to have. A very basic television remote can be had for around $12. On the other end of the spectrum, spending in the neighborhood of $1,000 is also possible.
What is a Universal Remote Control?
A Universal Remote Control allows users to consolidate the remotes from their television and various other types of AV equipment. These remotes are capable of operating multiple devices, even those from various manufacturers. To do this the user must program in the command codes of each piece of equipment they want the device to control. Information on command codes is generally found in the owner's manual for the equipment. To save time, a "learning" type of universal remote control is an option. These remotes are able to read signals transmitted by other remotes and to then begin transmitting those same signals without the user having to program the command codes.
I want a Remote Control that is easier to use, what features should I consider?
A common complaint about the average television remote control is that it is hard to use in the dark. A back lit keyboard can be useful in this situation. Another issue can be the difficulty of using a remote because of the sheer number of buttons on the face of it. A couple of options can help to address this issue. A television remote control can sometimes use "macro commands" which allow the user to perform a series of commands with the push of a single button. For instance, a macro command could be set up to turn on the television, the DVD player, initiate play, turn on the speakers, etc. by hitting a single button. A remote control with an LCD screen can also cut down on the number of buttons by displaying a limited number of icons on the display versus having a button for every function.
What are some other features common on a Remote Control that I might want to consider?
Television remotes today offer various methods of input aside from pushing buttons. Touch screens, joysticks, and even voice command controls are available; for a price. Touch screens can be color or grayscale; grayscale of course helps hold the cost down. Higher priced remotes offer two way communication which allows the remote to pick up and display information from the device that it operates. For instance, this type of remote control could display information about the programming on a particular television channel while viewing other shows. Television remote controls are generally infrared which means that the user must be within 30 feet of their television for it to operate. A remote control with "RF" or radio frequency extender has a greater range; perhaps 100 feet. A remote control with RF extender is also able to transmit the signal through walls.
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