How to Make a Cheap Homemade Listening Device

You can build an inexpensive homemade listening device using a cell phone. This device will allow you to eavesdrop on conversations of which you are not a part. You can complete this simple process in just a few minutes. Take care to only use this device at a property you own or of which you are allowed access. Otherwise, using it for illegal purposes can get you into trouble.

• 1

  Turn on your mobile phone, and go to the "Main Menu." From there, go to "Profile Settings," and set the profile to "Silent Mode." Turn the "Vibrate" setting to "Off."

• 2

  Go back to the "Main Menu," and scroll until you find the "Call Settings." Select "Automatic Answer."

• 3

  Set the phone in the area on which you wish to listen in. Place it in a hidden location, but keep the microphone uncovered. If you have a headset, you can also connect it to the phone and extend it out so the phone isn't exposed. Again, do not cover the microphone.

• 4

  Call your mobile phone from a different phone, and listen in on the conversation. If you wish to record, place a tape recorder next to the receiver of your phone.

Garmin GPS Specs

• Since 1989, Garmin has been known worldwide for its navigation and communication devices. Garmin enables consumers to find their destinations on interstate and back country roads, through nature and hiking trails, and while boating on rivers and lakes. With the number of choices available, consumers should be able to find the instrument that best meets their financial and specification needs.

Nüvi 3790LMT

• Lightweight and small, the Garmin nüvi 3790LMT weighs 4 oz. and is 4.8 inches wide, 2.9 inches high and .35 inches deep. Its glass display screen is 3.7 inches wide and 2.2 inches high. The screen resolution is 800-by-480 pixels. It comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 4 hours when fully charged. The nüvi 3790LMT's features include lifetime maps and traffic, 3-D building view, a speed limit indicator, Bluetooth wireless technology, ecoRoute for a more cost-efficient route, and Garmin Lock -- an anti-theft feature. As of 2010, this model retails for approximately $500.

Nüvi 2370LT

• The Garmin nüvi 2370LT weighs 5 oz. and is 4.8 inches wide, 2.9 inches high and .6 inches deep. Its display screen is 3.81 inches wide and 2.25 inches high. The screen resolution is 480-by-272 pixels. It comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours when fully charged. The features on the nüvi 2370LT include lifetime traffic, 3-D building view, a speed limit indicator, Bluetooth wireless technology, ecoRoute and Garmin Lock. The nüvi 2370LT is more economical than the nüvi 3790LMT and retails for approximately $300 as of October 2010.

NüLink! 1695

• The Garmin nüLink! 1695 weighs 8.2 oz. and is 5.5 inches wide, 3.4 inches high and .7 inches deep. Its display screen measures 4.4 inches wide and 2.5 inches high. The screen resolution is 480-by-272 pixels. It comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 3 hours when fully charged. The features on the nüLink! 1695 include real-time services such as Google local search, weather, gas prices, traffic, movie times, local events, traffic and safety cameras; a speed limit indicator; Bluetooth wireless technology; ecoRoute; and Garmin Lock. The Garmin nüLink! 1695 retails for approximately $450 as of October 2010.

How to Conference on a Polycom

A conference call is an effective way to have a quick or even a long meeting among two or more parties across great distances. Even with all the mobile technology that exists today, the business world still uses mostly basic conference calling. Polycom makes high-end equipment for hands-free conferencing by businesses. Most ordinary phones are capable of three-way conference calls, but Polycom equipment can be used to make conference calls among up to five parties.

• 1

  Dial 9, then 1, then the area code and phone number to make a call, or press "On/Off" to receive an incoming call.

• 2

  Press the "Flash" key. This puts the first party on hold.

• 3

  Call the second party by dialing 9, then 1, then the area code and phone number.

• 4

  Press the "Flash" key again to connect all parties. Repeat these steps for each additional party you want to add to the conference call.

How to Use an A1200 As a Webcam

The Motorola A1200 is a mobile phone that has a built in digital camera and video recorder. With the right software you can transform your mobile phone into a webcam, that allows you create video chats between your friends and family members. This way you don't have to carry around an extra gadget that can get lost or stolen.

• 1

  Choose a program that will allow you to utilize your A1200's built-in camera as a working webcam.  Some options to consider are MobileHomeCam, SmartCam, and WebCamera.  As of 2010, SmartCam and MobileHomeCam are open source softwares that are available for free, WebCamera costs $9.99.

• 2

  Download MobileHomeCam from its web page (see Resources).  You will need to download an application for both your mobile phone as well as for your PC. Once installed on your PC, launch the desktop MobileHomeCam application and register a username and a password by filling up the input fields provided. Then run the mobile client in the mobile program and log in with your registered username and password.  Once your phone and computer are synchronized, you will be able to get frame-by frame-recordings from your camera to your PC. You will be able to share still photos and set up a video stream with your friends.

• 3

  Get SmartCam (see Resources). This program only needs to be run on your PC. Once you have done this, connect your A1200 and your PC to one another via the Bluetooth connection. You can also use Wi-fi, if available. On your phone, run SmartCam and select a working access point or Wi-Fi hot spot.  Once done, you will be able to view the video feed from your Motorola A1200 directly on your PC.

• 4

  Purchase WebCamera (see Resources).  Install the program on both your PC and on your Motorola.  Establish a connection between your A1200 and your desktop computer by USB connection, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.  On the WebCamera application on your phone press "Menu," go to "Settings," and mark the "Auto detect IP flag."  On your PC type choose "WebCamera" as your preferred source video device.  Once the connection is done, simply press "Start" on the phone then you should immediately see your phone's video streaming onto your PC.

Cable Digital Phone Features

• Use cable digital phone at home for access to several inexpensive calling features. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

  While cell phones have replaced home phones in many cases, keeping a land line can be important for emergencies and for alleviating overages on mobile airtime. Cable companies provide digital home phone service with a wide array of features that can be compatible with your lifestyle and budget, especially if you already subscribe to one or more of a provider's services.

Unlimited Calling

• Digital phone plans tend to include unlimited outgoing calls. Subscribers who spend a lot of time on outgoing calls benefit greatly from flat-rate savings, sparing themselves from surprisingly hefty bills at the end of the month.

Free and Low-Cost Long Distance

• Within the context of unlimited outgoing calls, cable digital phone plans usually include free long distance service to the continental United States and nearby countries such as Canada and Mexico, and sometimes even extending out to include Caribbean and Europe.

Clear Signal

• Because digital phone service runs through your cable company's fiber optic network, you do not have to worry about interference that often permeates basic land line telephone service from telephone companies. You also do not have to worry about losing service due to inclement weather.

Voice Mail

• Cable digital phone often eliminates the need for an answering machine or expensive paid voice mail services. As a digital home phone subscriber, your company will either include voice mail in your monthly subscription, or provide the service for a small fee.

Bundles

• Digital phone combines several calling features that your local telephone company might charge for individually. Cable digital phone packages include Caller ID, call forwarding, call waiting, speed dial and more for no additional charge. In some cases, you may have to choose from a handful of the available features if they are not all included in your package.

How to Hook Up a Composite VCR to Component TV

Connecting a VCR with composite outputs to a TV with component inputs is done by using a converter. The type of converter you need is called a component-to-composite adapter. This will allow you to connect the VCR, with a composite connection, to a television that has a component connection. However, you will first need to obtain the proper type of connection cables to use with the adapter.

• 1

  Plug one end of the S-video cable into the "S-video Out" port on the VCR. Plug the other end of the cable to the "S-video In" on the adapter. If your VCR does not have an S-video output, use an RCA video cable.

• 2

  Plug the RCA end of the RCA mini-jack cable to the "Audio Out" port on the VCR. Plug the mini-jack end of the cable to the "Audio In" port on the adapter.

• 3

  Plug one end of the component video cable into the corresponding inputs on the adapter. Plug the other end of the cable into the component inputs on the television.

• 4

  Plug the power cord into the adapter and into a wall outlet or power strip.

• 5

  Press "Play" on the VCR. Press the "Input" button on the remote control for the television to locate the signal from the VCR.

How to Remove the Face Plate Covers on a Samsung SGH-A177

The SGH-A177 is a model of cellphone manufactured by Samsung, a South Korean electronics company headquartered in Seoul. Several companies make aftermarket face plate covers for the SGH-A177 in a variety of designs. The purpose of an aftermarket face plate cover is to add a personalized design to the phone. You might want to remove a face plate cover while switching to a new face plate of if you decide you don't want to use a cover anymore.

• 1

  Slide a fingernail behind the edges of the faceplate cover.

• 2

  Prise the face plate cover away from the phone in stages. The cover will start to disconnect.

• 3

  Carefully pull the face plate cover off the phone.

How to Unlock Mio C250

The Mio C250 is an older-model, dash-mounted GPS navigation device that became outmoded in 2009 by the company's more technologically advanced models. If your receiver is locked and not letting you use it, you can usually clean up a little and get a free upgrade of your software to get things running again. But not with the C series. Mio used a third party for its software on the models, and can only offer upgrades to later models of its GPS systems. What it's offering is this: Trade in your C250 for a newer model, with an undisclosed Mio Advantage member discount.

• 1

  Turn off your C250. Push in on your SD card until it pops out of its seat. Remove it and use a cloth or T-shirt to remove any dust or grime. Spray air with your gas duster into the SD card slot.

• 2

  Reinsert your SD card into the slot, fully seated.

• 3

  Turn on your C250. Sometimes, this will have worked to unlock your particular base map, which for U.S. customers is loaded on the SD card. If you're still locked out, proceed to Step 4.

• 4

  Navigate to the Mio Trade-In Instructions page (see Resources section).

• 5

  Click on the link for the trade-in offer to investigate the current discount for your trade-in. You will be told to sign up for a free Mio Advantage membership. Click on that option. Enter your email address and choose a password, then click "Sign in."

• 6

  Return to the webpage in the Resources section and click on the trade-in offer link. Enter your membership information, then follow the instructions for sending Mio your old device.

Portable Solar Power Sources

• Solar power is generated by the sun. Buena Vista Images/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Portable solar power sources are wise ways to choose convenient products that use clean and renewable energy. Solar power sources are fueled by sunlight and often function as well as any standard battery or conventional electricity-operated product. Portable solar power solutions may include anything from hand-held radios to yard products.

Solar PowerPac

• The solar powerpac is a 22-pound battery pack that can be transported by hand and used to power many different products, according to Solar4Power. Solar energy charges the 12-volt battery within the pack and allows other units -- such as laptops or cell phone chargers -- to plug into the pack. The powerpac only has one 3-pronged outlet included, but the front panel of the device has a light to help users see in dark places. The powerpac can also be charged long enough to help jump start the dead battery on a car. The cost of this product begins at $329.

Portable Fans

• Portable fans are other devices that can be easily carried in a backpack or purse. A solar powered fan, according to Invention, is a handy mechanism to use on a hot day at the beach or relaxing in a backyard. A small solar panel connects to the fan motor, thus powering the device to run and/or oscillate. Additionally, the panel can be used to refuel the fan's battery with solar energy. Fans can sit on stands, clip to boards or tables or be hand held. According to Amazon, an inexpensive portable, solar-powered fan will cost $10.

Outdoor Solar Lights

• Outdoor solar lights can be transported from one location to another without hassle. These lights, according to Gardening Guide, are conveniently used as pathway indicators for arriving guests, to protect flower bed trampling or as walkway guideposts for children or senior citizens. Usually measuring only several inches high, outdoor solar lights stick upright in the ground with the application of slight pressure. A small solar panel on the hood of the device powers these lights during the day and will illuminate at night. Prices can vary, but outdoor solar lights can often be found in any general hardware store for only a few dollars per light.

Specifications for a Sony KV-W28WF1

• The Sony KV-28WF1 Trinitron TV was produced prior to 1997. At the time, Sony decided to manufacture up to seven variations of this television set to accommodate the individual needs of different countries or regions. For example, the KV-28WF1E was made to be marketed to Spanish consumers, while the KV-28WF1B was intended to be used by Sony customers in France.

Picture Tube

• This Sony model was manufactured with a Super Trinitron Picture Tube. When measured diagonally, the screen is approximately 66 cm (25.98 inches) with 110 degrees of screen deflection.

Front Terminals

• Installed in the front panel is one video input phono jack, one audio input phono jack, an S-video input jack for a four-pin DIN connector and a stereo mini-jack for headphones.

Rear Terminals

• The rear panel holds a 21-pin Euro connector (CENELEC standard). This connector represents an interface for audio and video signals, an input for RGB connections and an output for TV audio and video transmissions. There is also a 21-pin Euro connector for inputting video and audio signals, S video input and outputs for selectable TV video and audio signals. An audio output phono jack is also installed on the rear panel of this Sony television set.

Dimensions

• The KV-28WF1 is sized at 690 mm (27.16 in) wide, 535 mm (21.06 in) in depth and a height of 534 mm (21.02 in). It weighs 38.1 kg (83.99 lbs).

Remote Control System

• For this Sony color TV, there is an included remote control system which operates on infrared frequencies. It requires two "AA" batteries. Without the battery, this remote control weighs about 90 grams. Dimensionally, it is 210 mm (8.26 in) long, 45 mm (1.77 in) high and 24 mm (.94 in) deep.

How to Connect a Zinwell Converter Box and a VCR With Comcast

Modern home entertainment devices like cable converter boxes, DVD players and VCRs create many different video and audio connection options, making it possible -- if not confusing -- to integrate all the devices in your home entertainment center. Connecting your cable converter box to your VCR, for instance, can allow for a means of connecting your VCR without having to use up any of the audio/video ports on your TV; connecting it in reverse can allow you to record programming from the converter box onto a blank VHS tape. Luckily, this connection procedure is quite simple, if you know what to do, and can be achieved using just a few basic steps.

• 1

  Connect one end of the RCA cables to the "Video Out" ports on the back of the Zinwell receiver. Make sure that the yellow plug attaches to the yellow port and that all the colors of the other cords and ports match accordingly.

• 2

  Attach the other end of the RCA cables to the RCA inputs on the back of your VCR. Again, take a moment to make sure that the color of the cable matches the color of the port into which it is being plugged.

• 3

  Configure the VCR to receive a feed from the Zinwell converter box by changing the VCR to one of its video inputs. The VCR remote may have an input selection button labeled "input" or "source," or you may need to use the channel selection control to go down to channel 2, then channel down once more until the VCR displays the video input. You should now see a picture from the Zinwell converter box.

PC Tools for a Magellan Crossover GPS

• Magellan's CrossoverGPS series of navigation devices allows you to put a GPS receiver on your dashboard, your boat or the hand opposite your walking stick. But mostly due to the changes in roads and points of interest, your software can get outdated, which can lead to poor directions and even your device freezing up. Avoid this by making sure your CrossoverGPS is operating with the latest free software update from the company, and by downloading tools to your personal computer that can alert you as soon as another new update is available.

Download Content Manager

• This is the program you'll need on your personal computer. Connect your computer and CrossoverGPS with your USB connector and turn on both devices. Go to the second link in the Resources section and click on the "Download" link. Select "Save as" and save the file to a convenient location on your computer. Once downloaded, double-click on the file, click on "Run," then choose a language and continue to follow the prompts to install Content Manager on your computer.

Using Content Manager

• For the most part, Content Manager is there for you when you need it. It will let you know when the latest maps are available for your region with the most current points of interest, helping you to avoid more glitches and bad data. It will also keep you informed about specialty or touring maps available to your CrossoverGPS -- for a price, of course.

Update Your CrossoverGPS, Too

• Downloading Content Manager allows you to connect your CrossoverGPS to your computer, which will detect your device and detect whether it is operating on the most current software. If not, it will facilitate a quick download of the proper software with the most updated maps, construction data and points of interest available to your particular model.

Instructions for a Sony Dual Cassette Deck TC-W411

The TC-W411 is a dual tape deck from Sony. You can play tapes in reverse and record between the two decks. It features AMS ("Automatic Music Sensor") and Dolby technology. Basic use of the unit is simple will become second nature when you've learned the layout. It can be a stereo in it's own right when connected to speakers or can be combined with other units in your home entertainment system.

Playback

• 1

  Switch the TC-W411 on by pressing the "Power" button. This is in the bottom left-hand corner of the unit. Press the "Eject" button to open the tape deck and insert a tape. The "Eject" button is on the bottom of each unit. The "Eject" button for the left deck is to the right of the "Power" switch and the one for the right deck is the farthest right in the bottom row of buttons.

• 2

  Move the "Dolby NR" switch to the position it was in when the tape was recorded. This switch is in the center of the TC-W411, to the left of the circular "Recording Level" and "Balance" dials. When you make a recording, it may help to note this setting on the tape. Alternatively, keep it set to one option for everything.

• 3

  Press the appropriate "Play" button to play the tape. The "Play" buttons are beneath the display panel and are flat and rectangular. There are two sets of buttons, with a "Forward Play," "Reverse Play" and "Stop" button on each. Each set of buttons is for the deck on the same side. The "Forward Play" button plays the tape the way you inserted it (the side turned face out plays), and "Reverse Play" plays the other side.

• 4

  Press the "Fast Forward" and "Rewind" buttons to search for a location on the tape. These are thin rectangular buttons above the "Play" buttons for each deck. You can also freeze playback by pressing the "Pause" button, which is beneath the "Stop" button for the right deck. The TC-W411's "Automatic Music Sensor" finds the quiet spots between recordings so you can skip tracks as on a CD player. If you press the relevant "Play" button at the same time as the "Rewind" button, the tape will wind back to the beginning and play automatically.

Recording

• 1

  Insert a tape you wish to record from into the left tape deck. Put the tape you wish to record onto into the right deck. Set the "Dolby NR."

• 2

  Press "Record" to prime the TC-W411 for recording. You can test your source material by playing the left deck while adjusting the "Balance" and "Recording Level" dials.

• 3

  Set your source material back in the right place and set it playing. Press "Play" on the deck on the right-hand side to set it recording.

How to Replace a Jabra BT3030 Battery

The Jabra BT3030 Bluetooth device offers stable call quality and widely compatible device paring, according to CNET. The device contains a small rechargeable battery. Unfortunately, over time the battery's charge capacity will diminish. If you use your Jabra BT3030 for several hours every day, you'll need to replace the battery at some point. The good news is that you can swap out the battery in just a few minutes, if you know the proper procedure.

• 1

  Locate the small indented tab on the right-hand side of your Jabra BT3030 device. This tab is located just beneath the headphone jack.

• 2

  Press in on the tab with a flat-head screwdriver.

• 3

  Lift the main faceplate off your Jabra BT3030 Bluetooth device.

• 4

  Pull the battery out of the device. The battery is located near the bottom of the Jabra BT3030, close to where the USB power cable connects.

• 5

  Insert a new battery.

• 6

  Put the main faceplate back on the Jabra BT3030 and press firmly until you hear the faceplate snap into place.

How to Change the Phone Memory Into Card Memory

Most cell phones these days come with a limited internal phone memory, along with an additional memory slot. In this slot, you can install a memory card to expand the phone's memory for accommodating additional items that cannot be stored on the phone memory. Different phones allow different sized memory cards. When your phone's internal memory starts to run out of space, you can switch to the memory card, and specify it as the phone's default saving memory, so everything you transfer to the phone automatically saves in it. The options to select it as default will vary depending on your phone, but they are generally the same.

• 1

  Go to "Menu," then "Options"/"Tools."

• 2

  Select "Settings."

• 3

  Choose the option "Default Saving Memory" (or a similar header).

• 4

  Choose "Memory Card" instead of "Phone Memory" and save the settings.

How to Set Up GroupWise Accounts on a Treo 755

The GroupWise software by Novell keeps all of your email, contacts and calendars in one place. By synchronizing your Treo 755 to your office's computer, you can get access to your GroupWise accounts on the go. First, you should ask permission from your information technology coordinator or manager to synchronize accounts if you do not have permission already. In addition, you should set aside a couple of hours before or after work to complete the synchronization process.

• 1

  Ask your manager or information technology coordinator for permission. If you have a Palm server in your office, you may need a password to enter it.

• 2

  Download the Palm Desktop and HotSync Manager if your office does not have a Palm server. You'll find a link to the page in the Resources section below. Follow instructions for proper installation. Reboot the computer.

• 3

  Insert the USB cable into the computer's USB port, located on the front or back of the computer's tower. Plug the other end of the cable into your Palm Treo's input jack.

• 4

  Double-click the Palm Desktop and HotSync manager. Click "Options." The computer's programs and files should appear.

• 5

  Select "GroupWise." Check the clients or accounts you want on your device. Click "Synchronize" to start the process.

How to Use Time Warner Cable for Conference Calls

Conference calling lets three people talk at the same time to each other. This allows for a business meeting over the phone, making plans with friends or talking to relatives. Time Warner Cable offers three-way calling to their customers. As long as you have a digital telephone and a Time Warner Cable account with a basic digital phone service plan, you can take advantage of this free feature.

• 1

  Dial the first party.

• 2

  Press the "Flash" button and wait for the recall dial tone (three beeps followed by a dial tone).

• 3

  Dial the second party.

• 4

  Press the "Flash" button again to connect all three parties.

How to Get Information on a Mobile Number

Getting information on mobile phone numbers today is easy. There are many databases, that will sell you information for a fee. These are often used by private detectives, law enforcement officials or bill collectors, but they can be used by anybody. They are usually up to date, and they often offer refunds if you are not satisfied with the information that you receive.

• 1

  Go to a reverse phone look-up directory that has mobile phone numbers. A few that you can use include PeopleEngine.ws, Best People Search and the Reverse Phone Detective. All these services will allow you to search their databases for a small fee that as of 2010 runs between $8.95 and $19.95.

• 2

  Use PeopleEngine.ws. This site will not only allow you to search for information about mobile phone numbers but will also allow you to do searches on landlines, e-mail and Social Security numbers and do criminal background checks. You will be able to find the location of the city of the mobile phone for free but you for additional details you will have to pay. The details you can get include the name of the owner, the service provider, years of service and sometimes the address of the user.

• 3

  Use Best People Search. You can opt to do your own search using their databases. There are free and paid options. You can also hire a private detective who will do the searches for you. This costs $250 as of 2010, but the results are guaranteed. This is a good choice if you are looking for an international mobile number, where the data are not as well organized as in the United States.

• 4

  Use the Reverse Phone Detective. This is a basic site and simple to use. Type in the phone number you are looking for, and in minutes it will give you results. This database only works in the United States and there is a refund option if you are not satisfied with results.

How to Use Wheels on a 30GB iPod to Set it to Factory Settings

When using a 30 gigabyte Apple iPod, you may, at some point in time, decide you just want to start over and revert the equipment back to its original factory settings. This is done with the onscreen controls of the iPod and with the help of iTunes. The entire process takes only a minute or two, but uploading content back up onto the iPod may take far longer.

• 1

  Plug the USB data cable into the power port on the bottom of the iPod. Insert the other end of the cable into a USB port on the computer. Momentarily, iTunes launches automatically (if you do not have iTunes it is available for free from iTunes.com).

• 2

  Press the "Power" button on the iPod wheel and the equipment appears on the left side of the iTunes window, under "Devices."

• 3

  Select the iPod, then click "Restore." A prompt appears, asking if you are sure you want to perform this action. Choose "Yes" and all the data is removed from the 30 gigabyte iPod.

Fibernet Telecommunications Service Agreement

The telecommunications company Fibernet and affiliates, such as Fibernet LLC, once only registered their terms of service agreements with the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC now requires that these service agreements are available to the public via the Internet.

Use and Ownership

• The service agreement mentions that all legal uses of telecommunications are allowed through a customer's Fibernet system. Telephone numbers are not a customer's property when he signs the agreement and may be changed at Fibernet's discretion.

Liability and Damage

• Fibernet lists situations where it has no liability, including willful misconduct, customer negligence, natural disasters, damages or defacement. The company will compensate for damages or service interruption that result from the fault of the company or its employee. Damages will not exceed the amount paid by Fibernet.

Service Interruptions

• The company agrees to notify customers in a timely manner for any service-altering activities, such as routine preventative maintenance, equipment additions or removals. Fibernet offers a temporary discontinuance credit for certain service interruptions.