Can You Build A Simple Hovercraft?

By Rashel Dan

If you build a simple hovercraft, the concept is really basic and easy. Just get lots of air. Hold it for as long as you can and place it below a wooden board. That should lift the board. Voila! You should be sitting on your improvised hovercraft. Simple isn't it? No?

Okay, so air is not tangible. And it's not visible either. Therefore you can't touch it or see it. In short it's not really that easy. Guess again. It still is. If you build a simple hovercraft, you only need a set of the basic plan and these other items:

1. You need a platform. This can be made of plywood, hard foam, or lightweight fiberglass. If there's any other alternative material you can think of, just make sure you can hold a large surface of air below the platform. You build a simple hovercraft by creating air pressure below the board.

2. Use a vacuum cleaner or any gadget that reverses air flow. You have to somehow attach to it to the platform to provide the required air lift. When you build a simple hovercraft, make sure the air pressure created can lift more than the platform weight. Remember, you'll be sitting on it.

3. For the skirt, you can use a heavy plastic sheet. Your basic hovercraft plan should have this in the specifications. As the name implies, this is fastened tightly around the platform in a way that actually looks like a skirt. Because the skirt is made of thick plastic, it regulates the amount air dispersed below. This creates a film of air molecules thus building pressure.

You are only building a hovercraft that is homemade. If you build a simple hovercraft, these items should just be enough. You may work on the details by studying further on other existing plan. But the items above should get you started. Here are other things you need to know about your hovercraft:

- A hovercraft can fit all four seasons. Unlike your cars or motorbikes, you can still use a hovercraft in winter. Because of its smooth air cushion, it can still glide over snow and frozen ponds.

- It's not very expensive to make a hovercraft. And if are a cheapskate, you'd know where to bag in the cheapest alternative materials to buy. Most of them could be in a flea market or a neighbor's garage sale.

- To build a hovercraft is really easy. All you need is the basic skills. A little knowledge in physics is an advantage. But as long as your design kit is complete, it should work for you.

- A hovercraft can be built in a few weeks. Yes it is possible. It's not like you're building the commercial thing.

These are just some of the countless benefits of building and having hovercraft. If by any chance you have a few more bucks to spare, get a decent hovercraft kit. But if you can't set a budget yet, you may settle this for now. The important thing is you tried building it and it works. So now that you know a few things on how a hovercraft works, will you build a simple hovercraft now? - 15437

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Can you build a simple hovercraft in 5 easy steps? Learn the 5 basic elements in building a hovercraft now!

Resources - Hobby Ideas You Will Like

By Arcol Mertin

What is your favorite pastime? Hobby enthusiasts know that free time is not to be "spent", but savored. If you have a past time that you enjoy, never look at his leisure in the same way again. If you are not sure what the last time your favorite hobby to you, here are some suggestions.

Many people listen to music as a hobby. There is much you can learn about all types of music. You can learn composers famous melodies, and all the performers in the past and the present. You can develop sophisticated tastes in jazz or classical music or to collect a wide variety of CD's. Music is a great time hobby.

A lot of people who love animals. Animals of all kinds may become his hobby. If you like to watch birds. If you have trouble finding the trees to see, perhaps he would like to get a couple of canaries, a budgie, or a cockatiel. People living in the country are sometimes interested in raising ornamental chickens, pigeons, pheasants o. It is very interesting to see a mother bird caring for a nest of young chicks. Perhaps you can even raise some award winners!

Dogs make a great hobby, too. Walking and enjoying a pet dog is one thing, but breeding and raising show dogs is something else entirely. Show dogs may require a bit of an investment, but many puppies are free. There is also the aspect of training a dog in obedience. Dogs give a lot of love back to their owners, too, so if you start a past time hobby of caring for a dog, you will never be lonely. However, dogs require quite a bit of work and attention, especially when they are being trained, so keeping dogs is not for everyone.

Bicycles can be your hobby. Hobby cyclists are becoming increasingly common to see less traveled by bicycle along the highways up close and personal the campaign. Cycling requires a helmet and appropriate clothing, and a small tool kit for repairs side of the road. Or perhaps you do enjoy cycling on a smaller scale, simply taking pleasure walks with your family. The choice is yours.

The world is full of interesting things to learn and do. Don't merely sit back and watch TV. Get interested in a past time hobby. It's good for your mind. In fact, it might even keep you from going senile in your old age, if you stay active in a past time hobby. And it's a good example to our kids and grandkids if we spend our time doing something meaningful. - 15437

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Brain Training - Why It Works

By Martin G. Walker

For a child, learning is almost effortless. By six years of age, children have a vocabulary of about 14,000 words and assimilate dozens of new words on a daily basis. In contrast, learning a new language as an adult can be a slow and laborious process. We're so familiar with this curious and dramatic difference between the child and the adult brain that we don't even question it. But once we understand the mechanism and reason for the difference we can use this knowledge to our advantage.

A child's brain produces large amounts of a protein known as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor). BDNF stimulates the brain's center of attention and memory formation. For children, the copious production of BDNF means that their brains are constantly ready to take in new information and form new brain structures.

In late adolescence the body produces a lot more BDNF, so much more that it turns off the brain's attention center. This shutting down effortless learning and constant attention is very important for our life as adults; we'd otherwise get overloaded and find it difficult to discriminate between long term goals and short term distractions.

Until recently, scientists believed the adult brain incapable of growth or change. Prevailing wisdom resigned us to a long, slow mental decline. But recent advancements in brain science have proven that this is far from true. Activities that demand attention reactivate the brain's attention center. And when we carry out mental tasks that produce a sense of accomplishment, we create conditions under which the brain can grow and change.

When we tackle novel and rewarding activities with intense focus, our brains begin grow new nerve cells and restructure themselves to adapt to the new stimulus. The key to effective brain training is to create conditions that require attention and reward that attention while strengthening core brain functions such as memory, processing speed, focus, and overall processing capacity (problem-solving ability).

The Three Building Blocks of Effective Brain Training

1. Focus

When we apply focus and attention the nucleus basalis releases a substance called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine tells the brain's memory center to pay attention so that we will hold on to the memories being formed.

2. Reward

Tackling a mental challenge that yields a sense of satisfaction or reward causes the brain to produce a second substance crucial to plastic change called dopamine.

3. Targeted Mental Exercise

Together these two brain chemicals stimulate the growth of new nerve cells, and produce conditions under which the brain can grow and change. If this mental condition is accompanied by an exercise that strengthens and improves core functions, we end up with lasting improvements in our mental ability.

Practical Applications of Brain Training

There are many activities that stimulate neural growth and help us stay mentally fit - studying a new language, tackling puzzles and brain teasers, learning a new skill - but while these are relevant and worthy pursuits, they're not as targeted and effective as a carefully designed and scientifically tested brain training exercise.

The right brain training software can strengthen core brain functions in a highly efficient, measurable and predictable way. This brings a slew of possibilities: Brain training is being used today for correcting learning dysfunctions, reversing the adverse effects of aging, helping to delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms or dementia, improving academic success, and for plain old self-improvement. Some training programs can even produce measurable increases in fluid intelligence or problem-solving ability - until recently believed to be impossible.

Although brain training is relatively new, there is no shortage of products on the market, and no guarantee that they will achieve the desired results. This presents us with the challenge of first identifying which product is right for us. They range in cost from less than fifty dollars to several hundred dollars, and the variance in efficacy is, if anything, even greater.

Before purchasing a brain training program, check the scientific pedigree of the training exercises it incorporates. Does the vendor spell out specifically what the training will accomplish, providing measurable gains in memory or processing ability? And does the product come with a training schedule, telling you how much time you should devote to the exercises and over what period you should train?

It's perhaps equally important to remember that brain training requires something from us, too. Plastic change can't be had without diligence and stamina. To use the analogy of physical fitness, we can't expect to increase our brain power without breaking a mental sweat. If we are willing to make the investment, however, the rewards will be well worth the effort. - 15437

About the Author:

Oxford-trained scientist, author, and technologist, Martin G. Walker is a member of The British Neuroscience Association, Learning and The Brain, and MENSA. His company Mind Evolve Software publishes free information on the field of neuroscience and brain training as well as effective and affordable brain fitness software under the brand name Mind Sparke.

On Location Photography: Appreciating the Convenience

By Stanley Shelton

Photographs are great to have for capturing memories and holding them for future viewing and reminiscing. Family photos are among the most treasured of all as they are of the entire family together. Sometimes, especially for families with very young children, getting ready for this event can be quite an ordeal. In this case, on site photography would be ideal. Consider the following scenario:

A young family is planning to have professional family photos made. They thought it would be nice to have a large family portrait to hang up, along with a nice package of photos to share with friends and relatives. So, they make an appointment with a local portrait studio on a day when there will be plenty of time to get 3 small children ready for the event.

Not as easy as it sounds. The hustle and bustle of scrambling to get everyone fed, dressed and looking good has Mom about to lose her mind and the baby, sensing al the tension, is in a bad mood. He keeps spitting up; better pack an extra outfit, just in case. Heading out to the car, the 2-1/2 year old manages to trip over her own feet and get a grass stain on her dress. The oldest child seems to be calmly waiting by the car for everyone; that's good. Or is it? They car is so dirty and he's leaning on it! His clothes are dirty too now. Dad cheerfully says "Maybe the photographer can pose us in such a way that the dirt is hidden.

So, everyone is in the car and the family is on their way to the photo studio. At this point, they can hardly wait to get this over with. They arrive at the studio and are led to a room where they will have their photos done. Mom helps the children remove coats, straighten clothing, fix hair and get ready for photos. She also needs to put that extra outfit on the baby. Too bad she isn't able to do something about the fact that is face is red and blotchy from crying earlier; it was a rough morning.

So, you get the picture? What if the photographer came to the family? On location photography has quickly gained popularity. On-site photography would save this young family a lot of time and hassle. All they would have to do is be ready and relax in their own home as the photographer arrives and sets up the equipment. The children will not have had a chance to get dirty and the baby will have a better chance at being relaxed and happy.

The good news is that on location photography does exist. If you have a very nice home and would like a natural scene for your family photos, this can be done. Or, if you are in the process of remodeling, and prefer not to show this in the background, the on-site photographer has special background materials so that you get studio quality photos taken in your home.

On location photography is the best for recording weddings and special events like graduations, family reunions, parties and more. You just can't beat the convenience of on-site photography, where the photographer comes to you, fully equipped with a traveling photo studio. It is so much easier for families with young children to have family photos taken right in their home; this way, they can easily include their pets too. - 15437

About the Author:

This article was written by Stanley Shelton, owner of J&S Portrait America, who has been in business nearly 20 years. J&S Portrait America offers on location photography with their portable photo studio, which they can setup in your home or business to produce studioquality photographs. J&S services special events, including weddings, graduations and family reunions.

More Technology for Solar Power

By Ross Wilskon

People across the globe are looking for alternative ways to expensive and damaging electricity. Whether it is because of the high prices or the threat of global warming, there has become a big push for solar power technology. Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, making solar power more popular and more user friendly than ever. If you have never considered going solar before, here are some things that you should know about solar power technology, and where it is headed in the future.

Brief History of Solar Power Technology: Solar power has not always been agreeable to all people. It is true that early attempts at solar power energy were less than successful. If you have ever seen an older home equipped with solar power panels, and you will undoubtedly remember the large awkward looking solar power panels placed all over the roof of the house. Sometimes the solar power worked quite well, and other times it did not.

This was a shaky start for solar power technology, and it left many homeowners wanting to help the environment in some way, but not wanting to consider this alternative at all. Luckily, technology has advanced rapidly over the last few years, shedding new light on solar power technology for homeowners and business owners all over the world.

Solar Power Technology Today: Technology has certainly advanced and solar power is now getting a second look. For many people, what seemed like a waste of time or a fad in the past is actually becoming a way of life for many. It is quite easy to equip your home with solar power technology if you know how it works. There are many professional companies that can help you understand how you can use solar power to your advantage.

In addition, when solar power panels or solar lights are installed properly, you can collect enough energy to keep you going for days even in the most severe weather. It is these types of advances in solar power technology that is giving the many homeowners hope that there is something that they can do to reduce their electricity costs, while helping the environment at the same time.

Technology keeps getting better every day. It is a good idea to keep an eye out for solar power technology. Undoubtedly, this will become a more prevalent way of powering homes and business in the very near future. - 15437

About the Author:

Ross Wilskon writes mainly for http://www.replacement-windows-tips.com , a web page with information about replacing windows amongst vinyl . You might come across his publications on choose a replacement window on his site.

Use a Water Heater Timer and Save Big Bucks!

By Ann Triune

Installing a water heater timer is the answer to your increasing electric bills. Water heaters use more electricity than any other appliance found at home. A usual family of four will probably spend at least $400 per year in electricity bills due to heating water.

Usually, a typical water heater keeps gallons of water hot all the time, 24 hours a day, regardless of whether it is used or not. This is the reason behind high utility bills. In order to save money, you can consider installing a water-heater timer.

What is a Water Heater Timer?

A water heater timer is an attachment to your water heater. With it, you can direct your water heater to operate only at the specific times you will be needing hot water.

How does this play a role in saving energy?

There is no need for a water heater to continue doing its function when you are at work or asleep. Usually, hot water is needed only for showers, doing the dishes, and laundry. This runs for about 4 hours in a day. Instead of heating water over and over again for 24 hours a day, you have the power of setting when and how often your water heater operates. This can save you up to 12% of energy.

How does a water heater timer work?

All water heater timers have manual override buttons, so you can set your water heater on anytime. If you have an everyday routine on what time you usually need hot water, there are water heater timers available with up to 24 on/off settings for each day so you can fine tune your water heating schedule.

If however, your schedule varies daily, there are more sophisticated water heater timers that come with a programmable function. A digital water heater timer is most effective and flexible, as it offers seven-day programming. You can set a different water heating schedule during Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and a different one for Tuesdays and Thursdays, whatever suits you best. You are in charge of setting the schedules.

For those with schedules varying only in the weekend, there are less expensive water heater timers available that come with a weekday and weekend schedule.

In case of a power outage, you do not have to worry about resetting your programmed schedule over and over again. All digital timers have a built-in backup in the form of battery or integral that saves your schedule. Water heater timers, being electronics with no moving parts, are also very easy to maintain.

How can I further lessen my utility bills?

You can inquire with your utility company about time-of-use rates. This usually varies according to their demand system. During on peak hours, higher rates are charged and during off peak hours, lower rates are charged. If you are able to set your water heater timer to heat water during off peak hours, then this contributes to further reducing the amount of your utility bills.

Overall, if you want to cut back on your utility costs, consider buying a water heater timer. It is relatively cheap, cost-efficient, and very easy to use. Most water heater timers pay for itself during the first two to three months of its use. This shows how efficient water heater timers are in reducing electricity costs. - 15437

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Find out how water heater timer can make you save on electricity. Learn more electric heaters tips from the best sources online.

Picture Taking Tips For First Timers No Body Has Told You About

By Ed Williams

Contrary to what many will have you believe learning beginners tips and tricks in photography just isn't that hard. There are of course differences between the old film cameras and the new Digital cameras which you will need to be aware of.

Taking advantage of these differences with the new digital format is really going to help you. And the truth is this stuff really isn't rocket science.

Freedom to take as many pictures as you like

What is great about the digital camera is the fact that you can take an endless amount of pictures. This way, paying for the printing of all the images, whether or not they are good, has been eliminated.

This is all good, however you do need to get into the habit of going through your photos and editing or deleting your collection. This is because you do not want to have to go through loads and loads of useless images to find your good ones later.

Ways to best go about storing your digital photos

One great way to save on space is to save your images in a lower resolution format. Lower resolution images can take up considerably less space, although you will lose some quality so you may want to experiment a little bit.

You will only need a high resolution for your photographs if you need a crisp image for a large printed photograph. If you are only going to use the pictures online or with a computer, you can use a lower resolution setting.

You can also increase the compression the camera uses for your images. Your images will take up less room in the storage space when you compress the pictures.

Another thing to remember is that most cameras come with very little memory space for photos, so you really should consider buying some extra large memory cards. There's nothing worse than running out of space just when you were about to take one of your best shots.

How to avoid running out of battery

Many people just don't realize it, but the camera's battery is very important. Naturally the last thing you need is the run out of battery just when you need your camera most.

Save on your batteries by turning off the LCD display when it is not in use. You can also turn off the flash and continuous auto focus to reduce these items from using up your batteries.

If your camera doesn't use its own special power pack, make sure you are at least using good rechargeable batteries and that you have several charged replacement sets of batteries ready with you at all times.

No matter how much of an amateur you are, with a little education and practice you should have no problem in mastering your camera. There's no reason why you can't come up with pictures you are proud of.

You may feel that you are very much a beginner in photography right now, but in the near future if you're dedicated and determined you will find that with practice and trial and error you will be taking shots like the pros. - 15437

About the Author:

You'll find at my blog a Basic Digital Photography Guide for you that will really help with your Beginners Digital Photography questions.