What Makes A Good Blu-Ray Player? 3D And Other Miscellaneous Features
All the best Blu-ray Players have the same basic features, such as playing standard Blu-ray discs, DVDs and CDs. They will have at least one USB port that supports playback of movies, music and photos files. And all models will have a HDMI Output which can internally decode the latest audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, or can bit-stream these formats in their native form to your A/V receiver to decode. You will also notice that good Blu-ray players will perform these functions and features consistently and only vary slightly in quality. Making it hard to distinguish between the different models.
However, there are other features found on players that are not common and separates unique, good Blu-ray players from the regular ones. For example, not all Blu-ray players are capable of playing back 3D Blu-ray discs. If you have already purchased a 3D HDTV or planning on obtaining one in the near future, it would be worth it to invest in a player that can play 3D Blu-ray Discs. While still not a deal breaker right now for most consumers if their player does not have 3D capability; more and more movies are being released in the 3D format. And you do not want to add the extra expensive of having to upgrade your player later down the road when you decide you want to view 3D movies at home.
Other rare features found on certain Blu-ray players is support for DVD-Audio and Super-Audio-CD formats. For a lot of audiophiles out there, this extra features is a real treat. These formats never really captured the intention of the public, but SACD can still be purchased with new releases coming out every week. Sony is one company that makes all their players SACD capable. But mostly, these formats are found on higher-end players which normally use a high-end DAC (Digital-To-Analog Converter) which will make your CDs sound better.
Of course, a player's DACs are bypassed if you use the HDMI port, so a Blu-ray Player that has multichannel analog outputs will come in very handy. Multichannel analog outputs are also nice for those with older A/V receivers that do not have any HDMI inputs. You will get to hear the new audio formats in stunningly realistic surround sound. There are not many mid-level players out there that will have multichannel analog outputs, most manufacturers have moved away from this feature. You can use optical or coax digital audio outputs, if the player has them, but they can not transmit the new Blu-ray's High-Resolution audio formats.
Multiple HDMI Outputs is another feature that is widely seen as very convenient on players. Used mainly for 3D playback, dual HDMI outputs will allow you to send your 3D video signal to your HDTV and your audio signal to your A/V receiver. Great for those who have A/V receivers can not handle a 3D signal. It cuts down on expense, since you do not have to upgrade to a new receiver. Multiple HDMI Outputs will also let you connect two TVs to the player. But be aware that not you might not get the same performance out of both HDMI outputs.
So when you are looking for a player, these features might not be on top of your must have list. That is perfectly fine. It is probably best to start out with the cheapest player you can get, although make sure it has Online Streaming Media Services. Later you can start to think about getting other features you might need, such as 3D, Dual HDMI Outputs, DVD-Audio/SACD playback or multichannel analog outputs. Where ever you start, getting a player is worth it. Costing anywhere between $70.00 to $200.00, you can get an excellent player that will give you an impressive HD Blu-ray movie experience. More expensive players will perform better, but they are only really for the die-hard enthusiast.
Get all the information on the 2011 Blu-ray Players: 2011 Best Blu-ray Players. I would also like to offer a FREE BLU-RAY PLAYERS BUYING GUIDE when you visit http://www.Bluray-DVD-Players.com. Copyright 2011. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
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Tuesday, November 08, 2011 | 0 Comments
The Other Power Tool: A Rugged Embedded Computer
ByJeremy P Stanfords
A rugged embedded computer is generally a tablet or small form factor device that is built to withstand exposure to extreme environmental conditions. It is not designed to be a full replacement for a standard PC, but to allow the user to conduct activities where access to a particular program is required despite the harsh environment. The end user may be a field engineer, delivery person, warehouse employee, military, or first responder, such as police or emergency medical worker.
Ruggedized computers conform to any number of specifications based on their intended use. As an example, there are different standards for military applications as well as industrial ones. Despite this fact, these computers are generally water-resistant or completely waterproof and are readable in bright light or low light conditions. Some are equipped with a keyboard while others have dedicated function buttons and use the screen for input. They can also be used by the average consumer who is tough on equipment or works in outdoor weather of all types.
Since they were designed to work under harsh conditions, these computers can be tailored to be kid-friendly. Small children can be especially rough on electronic devices, but a shockproof computer is more than adequate to withstand the abuse. Their ability to resist water can also be an advantage in the event of accidental beverage spills.
For the home handyman, these embedded devices can be valuable. When the device has wireless capabilities, it is possible for someone to use the Internet as a reference while working on the task at the same time. For example, installation instructions for a project may be needed to do the job correctly without having to call a local contractor. Video playback might be limited, but most embedded devices are capable of displaying static images found in do-it-yourself websites.
Professionals would also be able to use them in their line of work. Carpenters would not have any need to worry about sawdust destroying their computer as they built custom projects. Mechanics would not have to worry about grease smudges on the screen or keyboard. It would allow them to conduct administrative functions done on a standard computer, such as bookkeeping, in the same environment as their work. There would not be many standard PC's that would up to the task or be as portable.
Embedded rugged computers are small, lightweight devices that are capable of handling adverse working conditions. Originally built for military or industrial tasks, units that are available to the public can be put to everyday use and prove an invaluable tool. These devices can find a practical place in the home or toolbox.
Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information about rugged computers, please visit http://www.germane.com
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Tuesday, October 04, 2011 | 0 Comments