MyExpression

Using Your Digital Camera

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In this lesson we looked at the various settings and controls which are part of your Digital Camera.

Remember - that most cameras/models are different, not so much in the way they work, but in the way you set/change the various options - so you need to get to know your camera.

The PDF file attached explains many aspects of using a Digital Camera.

Converting DVDs

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We can use two pieces of Software to convert a DVD to another format that will allow us to store videos (as smaller file size) or to enable us to play them on other devices.

The first program we need is DVDDecrypter - this allows us to rip the contents of the DVD and place it on to your PC. You can download this program at http://www.dvddecrypter.org.uk/SetupDVDDecrypter_3.5.4.0.exe

The second program is HandBrake - this allows us to convert the ripped DVD file/s into a single file format (mp4), to save space and/or to play on other devices. You can download this program at https://handbrake.fr/downloads.php. Make sure you select the Windows Version applicable to your Operating System (32bit or 64 bit).

Once you have downloaded each program, you will need to install them both.

Download the PDF file attached for instructions on how to use the programs above to create the final converted mp4 file.

Backing Up Data - a simple approach

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Backing up DATA is one of the most, if not the most, important functions that should be carried out by everyone, from normal users to workplaces and corporations.

The program we are using for this simple approach is "SyncToy", a program supplied free and supported by Microsoft.

There are two versions of the program (64bit and 32bit) - the one you choose should match the Operating Sysytem on your PC/Laptop. If you try to install the incorrect version you will receive a prompt warning advising you.

Download the SyncToy program and install it. The "SyncToySetupPackage_v21_x86.exe" is the 32bit version and the "SyncToySetupPackage_v21_x64.exe" is the 64bit version.

The attached PDF file conatins intructions and guides on how to setup the program for use.

Using Windows 10

Once upon a time you could upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 free - that time has now passed and you will have to purchase Windows 10.

The original version of Wondows 10 was version 1511 (2015 Nov) - it has now been replaced with a new full version 1607 (2016 July). We assume there are many fixes to the original along with some additional features.

For those who have v1511 be very carefull if your PC wants to Upgrade to the new Full v1607 as there have been many reports on the net about a lot of issues with PCs and devices not working properly afterwards. For those whi do a Complete New Install of v1607 don't seem to have any problems. If in doubt contact your loacel Computer Store for further advise.

The following have been supplied to assist you in coming to grips with Windows 10:

Windows 10 User Guide (pdf)

Windows 10 Guide from Laptopmag.com web site

YouTube Video demostrating using Windows 10

Staying Safe in Facebook

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The instructions attached were produced by Linda Farrel (Australian Institute of Genealogical Studies Inc) for a class including participants focusing on using it for Genealogy.

The main focus of the instructions is making it as safe as possible to use facebook and is therefore appropriate for our needs as well.

Create Animation from Photos

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For this class we are using a program to Morph from one image to another. This is great for fun effects and even more serious work. For the sake of this lesson we will be using 2 photos (child and adult of the same person) so we can see the transformation from one to the other. It is possible to use more than 2 photos and even use existing video for morphing.

The program we are using is Sqirlz Morph, which can be donloaded from:http://www.xiberpix.net/SqirlzMorph.html and select he "Download Now from Tucows" link at the bottom of the page. You may also wish to look at some examples of morphing other people have done.

Once you have downloaded the program, you will need to install it to carry out the class lesson.

Download the PDF file attached which contains the leasson and all relevent instructions.

Don't forget to also download the images that are used in the text to practice with.

Transfer Data between Devices

In today's world we have a multitude of devices in which we use to store information and it would be nice to be able to share it accross devices, either our own devices or someone elses.

We are impacted and confused by the fact that we have Apple Vs Android along with a multitude of models for each.

Technologies that are available include: WiFi, Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, InraRed and/or by Cable Direct (USB?).

The following guides have been put together to assist you:

file-transfer-data-android-devices-using-blue_tooth.pdf

file-transfer-data-android-devices.pdf

file-transfer-data-android-devices-using-the-cloud.pdf

file-transfer-data-android-devices-near-filed-communication(nfc).pdf

Old iPhone to New iPhone

iPhone to iPhone (no iTunes or Cloud)

Sharing between Androids

Data between Samsung Galaxy Devices via WiFi

Transfer files PC to Mobile

Transfer from Apple MAC to Windows Computers

YouTube Video - Transferring Files between Androids

The lniks provided were accurate and working at the time this article was posted - no responsibility is taken for any that have been removed or altered.

A newer method of allowing different devices to share the same data (without the need for cables) is to use a Wireless Portable USB Drive. The following links are provided to assist you:

C/Net reports on the best wireless drives for 2016

ColourMyLearning reports on best wireless drives available

Using the Cloud

"The Cloud" has become the buzzword for todays computing people. What is it and what can I do with it?

The following have been provided to assist you in understanding the pros and cons:

The Biginner's Guide to the Cloud

How To Store Your Files in The Cloud – And Why You’d Want To

The Pitfalls of Using The Cloud - Hongkiat

Using the Cloud - Tutorials (by GCFLearnFree)

Cloud Provider Comparosin

Keeping your Mind Active (Having Fun)

This class was centered around games and puzzles you might play to help keep your mind alert and active.

The links below will direct you to the site we accessed in class along with many others we did not have time to look at. Most of these are free, some may require a payment to include additional features and some are also available as Apps for Tablets/iPads etc.

https://www.lumosity.com/ - brain free testing - (login) get more by paying

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2045299/10-puzzle-games-that-will-bend-your-brain.html

http://www.gamesforthebrain.com/ - many online games

http://www.mindgames.com/ - a collection of online games
http://www.mindgames.com/Brain+Games

http://www.gametop.com/category/brain-games.html - download

http://freebrainagegames.com/ - online - measure your brain age

https://www.fitbrains.com/ - train your brain online (login)

http://www.memory-improvement-tips.com/computer-backgammon.html - online

http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/braingames/braingames.htm - online kids games

http://www.izzygames.com/brain-games-k84.html?gclid=CPzZvOexoc8CFQuCvQodrfYIlQ - online

These links were current at the time of posting this article. No responsibility is taken for changes or removals.

As Microsoft did not provide the games in Windows 10 that were available in Windows 7 - the link below will allow you to download a program you can install on Windows 8, 8.1 and 10 that will provide the same games for you. This download will be compressed and you will need to unzip it before you can install it.

http://winaero.com/download.php?view.1836

When page opens, look for the link "Download Windows 7 games for Windows 10" and select it.

Editing Digital Images

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This lesson revolves around using basic editing techniques on your Digital Images.

The program used is "Picasa" from Google - whilst this program is not supported any more by Google, it is still an effective basic editing tool that can be installed onto your PC.

The last version that was produced is 3.9 and you can download Picasa here. Once downloaded you will need to install it onto your Laptop/PC.

Download the PDF file attached which contans instruction on using Picasa 3.9.

There is also a handy tool you can install on Windows whci will allow you to resize any number if images almost instantly without the need to open each image through a specific program, it is called Windows ImageResizer. Once installed, it places the option "Resize pictures" in the contect menu that pops up when you right-click on an image.

Download Windows Image Resizer.

Download basic instructions for using Windows Image Resizer.

Using an iPad / Tablet

There are two baic types of Table today, they are Apple's iPad and the Android (non Apple).

Again, like everything else there are numerous models with different features.

The following are provided to assist you:

How can i connect my ipad to a wireless printer

Using airprint with mac

Print from android to printer

Most Printer manufacturers make available an App for both Apple and Android devices to allow them to print.

Communicating with Skype

Skype is a great tool for communicating eith friends and family whilst travelling.

There are two types of SKYPE:

1. Skype for the Desktop (PC, Laptop & Windows 10 Desktop)
2. Skype for Tablet (Windows 10 Preview version)

The version for the Tablets has less features than the one for the Desktop, simply due to the Tablets not having the same resources (Memory, Space etc).

This guide is for the Desktop Version.

Skype video tutorials (Windows Desktop) from Skype.

Skype video tutorials (Android Devices) from Skype.

Skype video tutorials (iPad) from Skype.