Magic Tool in Photoshop

Magic Wand tool is used for selecting purpose only, but this tool is somewhat different from other selection tools like marquee tool. Here there is no need to draw any outline. We can select by single click only. This tool is below the Mark Tool. The magic wand tool lets us select a consistently colored area. We must specify the color range, or tolerance, for the magic wand tool’s selection.

This tool is used to select a portion of a image automatically. We can also select an uneven shaped area of a picture by using this magic tool. This tool picks of the color pixel and identifies the boarders of the color range and creates a selection.

When shopping for a new computer, you will come across many phrases that you may not be familiar with; many tout the benefits of a new technology. In relation to multimedia PCs and media centers, speed and the ability to multitask has prompted the development of new technologies. There are new operating systems available to help you manage and view your media and new processor abilities and configurations.

Here are just a few components that are recently obtainable or available soon:

Intel® Viiv™ Technology

Overview

This technology designed by Intel is specifically for multimedia PCs, game machines and media centers or component systems. It incorporates three key components including a dual core 64-bit processor, an advanced chipset and Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system.

Intel presents it as a ”new platform designed for the enjoyment of digital entertainment” and they collaborated with over 40 entertainment companies such as Movielink, Yahoo MusicMatch and Adobe to ensure compatibility.

Through Intel’s product page it is difficult to figure out what ”Viiv Technology” actually is versus what it does. They refer to the key components, which include the Pentium D, Intel Core Duo and Extreme Edition processors; these are all top-of-the-line processors and good for multimedia and games. The chipsets include the Intel 975X Express, which can support dual-core processors and the Extreme Edition with multiple 2X8 graphics cards, Intel® Memory Pipeline Technology (Intel® MPT), 8GB memory addressability to enable 64-bit computing, and ECC memory support. They also include an Intel Pro/100VM network connection, which is supposed to speed up the download time of high-quality digital content like movies and games.

Conclusion

In simple terms, Viiv Technology with a combination of high quality components equates to speed and the ability to multitask. For example, with a good system you should be able to download a movie, edit photos, run a security program and chat, all at the same time.

Microsoft Windows Vista

This runs with other windows programs and helps make it easy to find and organize files, information and programs. There are five versions, Business, Enterprise, Home Premium, Vista Ultimate and Home Basic.

Windows Vista has simplified the familiar start up menu and has added an integrated desktop search. While looking for documents, ”Live Icons” will reveal contents without having to open the file. With this program, you can even enter keywords to search the control panel to find out where to perform specific changes.

It has a ”live” task bar, so instead of opening programs listed in the taskbar, you can mouse over the taskbar item and a thumbnail view of the page or the contents of the file will display.

It has features called windows flip and windows flip 3D, so when you Alt+Tab through your open programs, a thumbnail of the page is displayed. Using flip 3D, you can use your mouse to scroll through 3D images of the pages.

Beyond helping you find files and programs, it includes security, a sidebar, Internet Explorer 7, SuperFetch, System Restore, an email organizer, Windows Backup, a network center, speech recognition, and much more. It has the ability to set user and parental controls as well as protection from malware (viruses, spyware).

Windows Vista Aero provides high-end visuals and can adjust to different hardware.

Microsoft reports that it will be available in 2006 and many PC providers list their product as ”Windows Vista Enabled.”

Conclusion

Windows Vista is designed to make using the computer easy for anyone. Even the most unorganized, computer illiterate person can use this program to find a file they forgot the name of or to help them figure out how to add a screen saver. It can even save you if you accidentally delete a file. It displays clear, attractive visuals and includes a good assortment of security and maintenance features.

Windows XP Media Center Edition

This program is offered through pre-installation only and is installed in most media centers and nearly all multimedia computers. This program is designed to manage and view media. It can help users play DVDs, watch and record television, play music, watch home videos, organize pictures, burn DVDs and CDs, provide online access and syncs to portable devices.

In terms of television, it supports TV and personal video recording for ATSC Digital TV (480p) and High Definition TV (720p/1080i) local network TV programming delivered via UHF antenna. It can support two tuners per computer, 2 analog or 1 analog and 1 DTV/HDTV tuner for local channels via over-the-air signal. With two tuners, you can record one television show while you are watching another.

The Update Rollup 2 is Windows Media Center Extender compatible. This utilizes the Xbox 360 to provide media center entertainment to any TV in the house.

It can be operated through a unique Media Center remote control and is compatible with a mouse and keyboard.

Conclusion

This is an excellent operating system for media centers, however if you are primarily using your multimedia PC for non-entertainment purposes, Windows XP Home or Professional Edition may be a better choice.

Dual Processors or Dual Core and Hyper-Threading (HT) Technology

These technologies speed up processes and allow multiple programs to run at once.

Dual Processors —

traditionally this meant two separate processors located on the same motherboard. According to Intel’s article, Dual Processors, Hyper-Threading Technology, and Multi-Core Systems, ”A multi-processor capable operating system can schedule two separate computer processes or two threads within a process to run simultaneously on these separate processors.” Currently, many manufactures are opting for a dual core processor.

Dual Core —

generally, this is two identical processors contained in the same IC (integrated circuit) package. Either they have their own on-die cache or they share. Both processors have their own communication path to the systems front side bus (FSB).

Multi Core —

more than two processors. Currently, many operating systems cannot handle multiple processors. However, some of the newer Microsoft Windows XP versions and many Unix/Linux-based operating systems can support multiple processors.

Hyper-Threading (HT) —

with this technology two threads can execute on the same processing core, parallel to each other. It is possible to implement this technology on a dual processor making available up to four threads at once.

Conclusion:

Is more better? Yes, if you are a gamer or want to run several complex programs at once. However, if you just employ your computer for common uses, a single processor with HT technology will do what you want and cost less. If you want to use your computer for multimedia, you may want to consider a Pentium D (dual core) 930 or higher. Gamers might want to invest in the Intel® Pentium® Processor Extreme Edition. Multi Core is beyond what most people need.

Technology is an ever-evolving phenomena whose main purpose seems to make things easier and faster. With computers, more is usually better and if you under-buy, you will be disappointed later when you cannot run the newest programs.

In this interactive era of blogs, Bebo, and MySpace, computers have gone all creative on us. Creating a personal site is akin to decorating a bedroom as thousands strive to showcase their individual creative flair. Multimedia and web design involves turning this inventiveness into something that will incur financial benefits: a job.

Technology continues to evolve faster than you can download the latest Arctic Monkeys song; web sites have become more sophisticated and computer games are now hyper-realistic, while developments in DVD, e-business and e-learning technologies are also coming thick and fast. All this advancement means there are plenty of exciting opportunities for people with third-level multimedia qualifications.

The word ‘multimedia’ means different things to different people, and the subjects offered on each course can vary. Some courses concentrate more on web design, some offer social science and media subjects, and others teach elements of computer programming and software design.

The multimedia and web design sectors are certain to continue to grow for the foreseeable future making it an excellent career prospect for those who would like to combine design and IT.

Education

A large number of new multimedia courses have been introduced in recent years. Options include higher certificate and degree courses in Multimedia, Communications & Multimedia, Multimedia Computing, Multimedia & Computer Games Design, Interactive Multimedia and Multimedia Applications Development. CAO points’ requirements are around 400 for the degree courses and 200 – 300 for the certificates.

There are also a number of specific web design courses available at further education colleges listed in the Guide. These courses are not part of the CAO system so you can apply directly to the college concerned.

Subject options across the various multimedia courses include Visual Design, Media Studies, Web Authoring, E-Learning, Computer Programming, Social & Economic Studies and Games Modelling Design. You may also learn how to use software programmes used in multimedia and web site design (e.g. Flash, Director, Photoshop) as well as sound and video editing software (such as Final Cut and Pro Tools).

Options After Qualification

Multimedia graduates have a wide range of career options including the web design, media, e-learning, computer games, education and e-commerce industries. There are also opportunities for roles in business, tourism, arts, journalism, the civil service and other sectors, as an increasing number of organisations realise the importance of maintaining an attractive and informative website.

The Work

There are a multitude of avenues that a multimedia graduate could choose from. A typical professional produces interactive web sites, DVDs and programmes featuring an imaginative combination of image, sound and text. The content can be anything from an e-learning language programme to the DVD menu on a new film release.

Multimedia designers usually work with a client or manager who gives them a brief containing the content to include. The designer then suggests a number of ideas or structures. When one is chosen, the designer must then create and design each of the elements (animations, menus, images) and fit them all together, before testing the finished product and fixing any problems.

As the name suggests, web designers generally concentrate on designing web sites. With broadband access becoming more widespread, web sites are gaining more interactivity: incorporating video, audio, shopping and other content. Making a website memorable is vital, so innovation is a must.

A web designer is given a brief just like a regular designer, and is required to use imagination and skill to create the finished product – a unique site that showcases the subject, product or content as required. Sites can be for the Internet (public) or the intranet (accessible only within a company). The job can include design work on the ‘front end’ of the site that the user sees, as well as programming and technical work on the ‘back end’ – the details visible only to the webmaster. Many designers specialise in a particular software programme or language (such as php, xml or Flash).

Other responsibilities that multimedia or web design professionals may have include writing content for web sites and manuals, editing video and audio files and preparing them to be viewed or heard online, designing and implementing database or e-commerce solutions and regularly updating and managing clients’ web sites.

Personal Qualities & Work Environment

Multimedia is especially well suited to students with a combination of interests in the media, humanities and computing areas. Creativity, IT skills, teamwork and an enthusiasm for new technologies are all important qualities.

Multimedia professionals usually work in an office or studio environment. Companies can be big or small; the larger organisations like banks, the civil service, multinationals and universities often have their own design team. Depending on the position, a multimedia staff member may have to meet clients, pitch proposals or introduce new technologies.

Some designers work freelance, on a contract basis, or from home.

The Money

Web designers may start out on €25,000 a year, while people with extra skills or programming experience may earn more. These figures can rise quickly as experience and success are gained.

The Jargon

E-learning: Courses and programmes of study delivered using computers or other technology

Modelling: A computer programme that simulates a particular system, used for testing and developing

Webmaster: A person responsible for designing, developing, marketing, or maintaining a web site

Job Titles

Multimedia Designer
Web Designer
Computer Games Developer
Webmaster
Web Developer
Web Editor

Question: Why can’t a full-featured multimedia notebook be only 15.4?

Answer: Now it can be.

Featuring NVIDIA® PureVideo® HD technology, ASUS’ new M50Sv offers world-class multimedia features, in a form factor that is lighter and more mobile than many other competing solutions. With its sharp looks and useful new technologies, like ASUS SmartLogon face recognition, this notebook appeals to those who want a powerful and innovative solution

Multimedia Heaven
To introduce a new level of mobile multimedia experience, the M50Sv offers the following premium features:

1.     An NVIDIA GeForce 9500M GS Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) with NVIDIA PureVideo HD technology – for smooth video playback.

2.     Dolby Home Theater™ certification offers pristine surround sound.

3.     Premium Altec LansingPremium Altec Lansing®

4.     A unique multimedia touchpad brings simple, one touch-control to your fingertips.

5.     With built-in HDMI support, you can bring HD video, pictures, and sound into your home theater system.

6.     The M50Sv-B1 model offers a Blu-ray combo drive for high definition content.

Next Generation Technologies
To complement its rich multimedia features, the M50Sv boasts a host of innovative technologies.

The notebook’s proprietary “infusion” casing provides a striking and scratch-resistant finish to its vinyl-record inspired cover design.

It also features ASUS Smart Logon face recognition technology for a convenient and secure logon. This feature lets users scan their faces to create up to 10 profiles through the webcam.

An additional innovation the M50Sv offers is an AI sensor, which intelligently detects lighting conditions and adjusts the screen’s brightness accordingly for maximum user enjoyment and battery life.

Power for Today and Tomorrow
With a full 512MB of video processing memory in its NVIDIA GeForce 9500M GS Graphics Processor Unit (GPU), the ASUS M50Sv provides great multimedia and gaming. Both models offer the latest Intel® Core™2 Duo processors (T9300 and T8100), and 3 GB of System Memory (RAM). This balance between the GPU and the CPU enables the M50Sv to handle games and new applications.

Built-in Swivelcam
An integrated 240° swiveling webcam allows wire-free video communications in detailed, 1.3-megapixel resolution. Staying close to those who matter has just become easier. Ideal for posting to Web 2.0 applications like YouTube or MySpace.

ASUS Takes Care of You
WARRANTY: The ASUS 360 Warranty is one of the most comprehensive complimentary notebook warranties in the industry.

ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE: Notebooks purchased in the US and Canada are also covered by ASUS’ Accidental Damage Warranty (ADW) for one year (one claim per notebook).

RECOVERY: All ASUS notebooks come with a recovery disk from which users can boot, even if the hard drive has been wiped out by a virus. A hidden partition in the hard drive protects against viruses and lets users easily restore the hard drive contents.

ASUS M50Sv Specifications:

Performance hungry? With new hafnium-based circuitry and up to 6MB L2 cache, you can multitask compute-intensive applications up to 2x as fast, while the new Intel® HD Boost gives you up to 50 percent more speed for hi-def multimedia applications.¹ Plus, you’ll enjoy a 3x performance improvement for a super-enhanced hi-def video experience and smoother playback with VC-1 hardware acceleration and optional Intel® Graphics Technology.²

Demanding applications? With mobile-optimized 800 MHz Front Side Bus (FSB) providing increased bandwidth and up to 20 percent faster data transfer rates, you’ll have the performance you need for everything from high-end gaming to hi-def multimedia applications and everything in between.¹

Remain unwired longer. Intel® Intelligent Power Capability gives you breakthrough enabled battery life so you can stay unplugged longer. The low-leakage, hafnium-based 45nm processor delivers unrivaled energy efficiency while Deep Power Down Technology lets you save power by using it only when you need it. No matter where you’re at, you’ll have the battery power you need to enjoy DVDs, hours of music, the coolest games, and much more. Plus, with built-in wireless connectivity, you can connect to public Wi-Fi networks around the globe, no wires attached.+

Enjoy the hi-def mobile multimedia monster inside. With new 3D graphics features like Vertex Shader Model 3.0* and Hardware Transform and Lightening*, and the performance-packed next-gen Intel® dual-core technology, you’ll experience hi-def multimedia like you’re in it.

Get the most out of your available bandwidth. Intel® Smart Memory Access improves system performance by optimizing available bandwidth in the system bus and memory subsystems to provide data to the processor when and where it is needed.

Explore Microsoft Windows Vista*. Optional Intel® Turbo Memory was designed with Intel® Flash Memory technology and software drivers that enable new benefits when running Windows Vista, including 2x faster performance when loading memory-intensive applications, and faster system booting.³

Do more with all things digital. Get up to 2x the performance when converting video from a camcorder to a format for the Web, 1.25x more speed for editing digital photos, and download MP3s over 1.75x as fast.Φ

Adobe adds Flash, video, and Web services to its venerable Acrobat software.

Adobe is reinventing its venerable Acrobat software for the multimedia-heavy Web 2.0 age.

Targeted primarily at business users, Acrobat’s familiar PDF format has long allowed Net users to create and distribute forms, documents, and other publications that don’t translate well into ordinary Web pages.

Acrobat 9.0, which is slated for public release in July, will offer far more, allowing users to distribute slickly formatted presentation packages, complete with Flash-based video and animation. A related set of online collaboration tools is aimed at giving Adobe a foothold in the growing market for hosted Web applications.

“One of the long-standing virtues of PDF was the ability to have a reliable presentation regardless of the platform,” says Marion Melani, group marketing manager for Adobe’s Acrobat team. “We’re taking that history and extending it to include new mediums.”

A 15-year-old product, Acrobat’s transformation reflects the growing importance of multimedia, for businesses as well as for YouTube-savvy consumers. But it is also a nod to the burgeoning use of online document-sharing tools–a critical activity as work groups are spread increasingly across home offices and locations around the globe.

Acrobat’s strength has always been in allowing documents that need precise formatting–whether tax forms or artful magazine layouts–to be displayed, distributed, and printed as intended, rather than risking distortion in a Web browser. The last version also added support for computer-aided design (CAD) features, opening the format to wider use by product manufacturers.

This new version, the first to include support for Flash, steps beyond this document model. It offers users the ability to create “portfolios” of multiple files that can include video, audio, Web pages, manipulable 3-D objects, and even Flash-based applications in a single compressed package, all viewable inside the new Acrobat Reader software.

With a simple interface, reminiscent of the way that Apple’s iTunes displays album covers, portfolios will allow recipients to flip through each component, in an order determined by the author.

Adobe says that it expects the video and Flash-based features to resonate quickly with professionals who make complicated presentations, such as sales and marketing representatives, and even architects and attorneys creating multimedia legal briefs. Analysts note that video and Flash animations could also be helpful for demonstrating procedures in scientific journal articles, technical documentation, and financial reports.

“We’re seeing video used everywhere, even in context of technical documents or product brochures, as a way of telling a story,” says IDC analyst Melissa Webster. “These portfolios are a compelling way to integrate multiple files.”

The new Acrobat.com site will allow users to store, share, and work together on these multimedia-heavy portfolios, without having to swap them by e-mail. But Adobe hopes that people will also use the service for broader document-collaboration efforts.

The site offers a minimally featured word processor called Buzzword, acquired when the company bought startup Virtual Ubiquity last year. Separate functions offer Web audio and video conferencing, including the ability to let participants remotely view activity on the main user’s desktop. Users can store and share up to five gigabytes of files, allowing them to work on projects together.

Other companies have beat Adobe to these hosted collaboration services, with services such as Google Docs, Microsoft’s recently unveiled Live Mesh, and a myriad of smaller offerings. But Adobe is betting that the simple, easy-to-use design of its new service, and the near ubiquity of its Acrobat software, will give it a leg up.

“This is never going to be a direct competitor to Microsoft Office, because it just doesn’t have the productivity value,” says Forrester Research analyst Sheri McLeish. “But it gets their foot in the door and is an opportunity to reach more users, who will be impressed by what Adobe has done.”