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The new Xbox 360®. Here today, ready for tomorrow with a brand new, leaner machine in an all new black gloss finish. Wi-Fi is built-in for easier connection to the world of entertainment on Xbox LIVE, where HD movies and TV stream in an instant. It’s ready for the controller-free experiences of Kinect —you don’t just play the game, you are the game. With the huge hard drive you’ll have plenty of space to store your favorite games and movies. Xbox 360 is more games, entertainment and fun.

Microsoft Xbox 360 250GB Console
(Model No: XB360250GB)

Xbox 360 S Console
The new console is sleeker and quieter than current Xbox 360 consoles, with a stylish design that will be the centerpiece of your home entertainment system.

Xbox 360 250GB Hard Drive
The internal 250GB hard drive allows you to save your games and store television shows, movies, music, pictures, trailers, levels, demos, and other con¬tent available from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

Built in Wi-Fi
The new Xbox 360 is the only console with 802.11n Wi-Fi built in for a faster and easier connection to Xbox LIVE. Download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, and games from Xbox LIVE Marketplace in 1080p and 5.1 surround sound from anywhere in the house. Compatible with b/g/n networks.

Kinect ready
Coming this holiday, Kinect will make YOU the controller. With a dedicated, specialized port, the Xbox 360 250GB is built to connect seamlessly with the Kinect sensor — and have you up off the couch and into the world of Kinect in no time.

Microsoft Xbox 360 250GB Console
(Model No: XB360250GB)

Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
This award-winning, high-performance wireless controller features the Xbox Guide Button for quick, in-game access to friends and music. It has a range of up to 30 feet and a battery life of 30 hours on two AA batteries.

Xbox 360 Headset
Strategize or trade taunts while playing games, and chat with your friends on Xbox LIVE.

Xbox 360 Composite A/V Cable
Use your Xbox 360 on standard-definition televisions using this connection over traditional composite connectors. Play high-quality audio with the included stereo connector.

Xbox LIVE
Xbox LIVE brings a whole world of entertainment possibility right to your Xbox 360. Play with friends online, and watch streaming movies and TV from Zune and Netflix, all in crystal-clear HD. You’ll find loads of your favorite music from Last.fm and the ability to connect with friends on Facebook and Twitter right on the best screen in the house.

Ports

• 2 Front, 3 Rear USB Ports
• 1 Kinect Port
• Capacitive Touch ODD Eject Button
• Kensington Lock Support

What’s in the Box?

Xbox 360 250GB S Console Xbox 360 250GB S Removable Hard Drive Xbox 360 Black Wireless Controller

Xbox 360 Black Headset Xbox 360 Composite A/V Cable 1-month Xbox LIVE Gold Membership

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Shop for Sony’s PlayStation 3 bundle here.

With the Sony PlayStation®3 120GB system, you get free PlayStation® Network membership, built-in Wi-Fi and 120GB of hard disk drive storage for games, music, videos and photos. And every PS3™ system comes with a built-in Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality and the best high-definition viewing experience available. Whether it is gaming, Blu-ray movies, music or online services, experience it all with the PlayStation®3 system.

Sony PlayStation®3 Bundle, 120GB Hard Drive, Blu-ray™ Disc Player
(Model No: PS3BNDLC)

FEATURES
Gaming
PlayStation® 3 game library continues to grow almost every day.

Movies
Blu-ray™ Disc is the future for both sight and sound with crystal clear high-definition picture and theater-quality sound.

Multimedia
Your music, photos and videos all available in one place for easy viewing and sharing with friends and family.

Connectivity
Connect the PS3™ system to the Internet, to your PSP® system, your PC and so much more. It’s the ultimate all access pass.

PlayStation® Network Membership
With your FREE PlayStation® Network account you get access to online gaming, friends, downloadable games, movies and TV shows.

SPECIFICATIONS

• 120 gigabyte hard drive for storing games, music, videos and photos
• High-definition Blu-ray player for the best movie experience
• Internet ready with built-in Wi-Fi
• HDMI output for 1080p resolution
• 2 USB ports

DUALSHOCK®3 WIRELESS CONTROLLER
Feel all of the action onscreen right in your hands. The DUALSHOCK®3 wireless controller has pressure-sensitive buttons which means you’ll feel the controller vibration during every hit, crash or explosion.

SIXAXIS™ Highly Sensitive Motion Technology
Your natural movements become part of the action and the controller becomes a natural extension of your body. The SIXAXIS™ motion-sensing system allows users to maneuver the controller itself. With this system, sensors read when a player angles, tilts, thrusts, or pulls the controller, all in real-time and with high precision.

Bluetooth® Technology
No wires. With the DUALSHOCK®3’s Bluetooth® technology you can play completely untethered.

Multi-player Gaming
Connect up to seven wireless controllers at one once for serious multi-player gaming.

GAMES
Speaking of multi-player gaming, there are two games included with the Sony PlayStation 3 bundle that are screaming multi-playing competition!

BioShock®
Considered to be one the finest games in the history of interactive entertainment, BioShock is a watershed entry into the world of video games. BioShock introduces gamers into an exciting world filled with fascinating characters, intelligent enemies and complex moral choices that define the foundation of the game world.

Rated M
Titles rated M (Mature) have content that may be suitable for persons ages 17 and older. Titles in this category may contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and/or strong language.

The BIGS 2
The Big Leagues just got BIGGER! Available on all major video game consoles, The BIGS 2 allows fans to experience heroic gameplay, legendary game modes and incredible player models. Elevating The BIGS 2 to new heights are bigger power-ups, amazing visual effects, and an all new career mode.

Rated E
Titles rated E (Everyone) have content that may be suitable for ages six and older. Titles in this category may contain minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence and/or infrequent use of mild language.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

Gaming Console 1 Wireless Controller 2 Games (titles may vary by location) AC Power Cord

A/V Cable USB Cable Blu-ray Disc Remote HDMI Cable

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The iHM77 is the perfect stereo speaker system for your iPod, iPhone, laptop (Mac/PC), and MP3 player. The iHM77 speakers attach magnetically in a capsule shape for the ultimate in portability, then separate and extend for surprisingly big stereo sound that must be heard to be believed.

iHome Portable Multimedia Speakers (Model No: IMH77R)

Features

• Plays all iPod/iPhone models and other audio devices with 3.5 mm audio jack

• Perfect for enhancing the movie/music experience on laptops
• Custom-tuned vacuum bass design for low frequency response
• Each speaker contains built-in amplifier powered by a rechargeable battery
• 2 amplified collapsible speakers attach magnetically for the ultimate in portability
• Long lasting built-in Li-ion rechargeable batteries
• Supplied cable for charging speakers and audio output
• Rubberized paint texture for amazing look and soft feel
• Convenient protective carrying case and cord wrap included
• Dimensions: 2″ (width) x 2″ (height) x 2″ (depth)

Using the iHM77
A magnetic base holds the iHM77 together for travel or storage. To separate the two speakers, gently pull them apart. To unlock and expand each speaker, grip the top and bottom and give a small counter-clockwise twist. Do not pull hard once open, as the built-in spring will automatically extend the speaker to its proper position. To compress and lock speaker, align the lock tab on the speaker’s top with the lock/unlock arrow on the base. Press the speaker down from the top and twist clockwise to lock in place.

iHome Portable Multimedia Speakers (Model No: IMH77R)

4 Steps to Connecting the iHM77

STEP 1
Connect a mini-USB plug to the input jack on each speaker (the larger USB plug is used for charging only).

STEP 2
Connect the stereo 3.5mm audio plug to the headphone jack or line-out of any audio device.

STEP 3
Slide the Power Switch of each speaker to the ON position. The blue power light will come on.

STEP 4
Press play on your audio device and adjust its volume to listen to audio.

Charging the iHM77
The iHM77 is powered by a rechargeable battery in each speaker. When the blue power light dims or if you start to notice sound distortion at higher volumes, it’s time to recharge the batteries.

Connect the larger USB plug to a powered USB port, such as that on a computer. The light on the speaker will turn to red while charging and turn blue when fully charged. You can continue to listen to the speakers while they are charging.

iHome Portable Multimedia Speakers (Model No: IMH77R)

Ventilation
The iHM77 should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, it should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar surface that may block ventilation openings. Also, it should not be placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet, which may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.

Heat, Water, & Moisture
The unit should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat. The unit should not be used near any water source (e.g., bathtub, kitchen sink, laundry area, swimming pool, wet basement).

Magnets
The iHm77 has magnets in the base of each speaker. To avoid interference or possible damage, do not place the speakers directly on electronic devices such as computers or monitors. Place the speakers on a desk or table next to the computer or monitor.

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This isn’t your typical baseball game. Not even close. Instead of hitting home runs, you’ll be playing for a hole in one on a golf course —but with a baseball bat instead of a golf club! And that’s if you can avoid the gophers, lawnmowers and other obstacles that can block your path.

MLB Superstars is a plethora of multiplayer mini-games brought to you courtesy of 2K Sports and Deep Fried Entertainment. You’ll be able to challenge your favorite Major League Baseball (MLB) pros to wacky versions of golf, bocce, piñata, and other original games — all with a baseball twist.

MLB Players
One of the cool features of this game is being able to play the game using your favorite athlete from the Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and other AL and NL teams from Major League Baseball. Here’s a partial list of the different players included in the game:

#21 | RF – Vladimir Guerrero (Los Angeles Angels) #34 | P – Kevin Millwood (Texas Rangers) #33 | P – James Shields (Tampa Bay Rays) #21 | FB – Dmitri Young (Washington Nationals) #10 | 3B/SS – Michael Young (Texas Rangers) #32 | OF – Josh Hamilton (Texas Rangers)

#15 | SS – Cristian Guzmán (Washington Nationals) #12 | LF – Alfonso Soriano (Chicago Cubs) #10 | CF – Vernon Wells (Toronto Blue Jays) #17 | 1B/RF – Lance Berkman (Houston Astros) #32 | P – Roy Halladay (Toronto Blue Jays) #5 | 1B – Albert Pujols (St. Louis Cardinals)

Nintendo Wii MLB Superstars Game (Model No: GAMEACCPK1)

ESRB Rating: “E” for Everyone
Release Date: November 10, 2008
Players: Up to four plays at one time
Baseball Bat: 18’inch bat is included and is made if child-safe, shock-absorbing material

Baseball Bocce
Grab your Wii Remote and take turns using an underhand throwing motion to get your ball as close to the jack (white ball) as possible. Watch out for gophers, lawnmowers, and other obstacles that can block your path.

Wall O Bricks
Smash the Wall O Bricks with your bat and avoid the Behemoth! Players will swing the Wii Remote like a baseball bat to knock out bricks and earn power-ups.

Snack Cannon
The fans are hungry and they’re letting you know it. Look at the bubble above a fan’s head to see what kind of snack he wants. Aim and launch the correct food at the fans to earn points.

Baseball Golf
Bat, bunt, and toss the ball to sink it in the hole in the fewest strokes possible! Swinging motions for drives, throwing for mid range shots, and once on the green you’ll utilize a bunting motion to finish off the hole.

Marbles
Try to knock marbles out of the circle in this baseball themed take on a classic childhood game! Hold the B Button and perform an under-arm throwing motion with your Wii Remote. Release the B Button when you wish to release the ball.

Batting Range
Don’t want to play a full game of Baseball Golf? Work on your swing at the Batting Range!

Pachinko
Bat balls into the stands and try to earn prizes on the biggest pachinko board around. The baseballs you’ve collected can be spent in Pachinko to earn prizes such as bats, balls, shirts, and more which can then be equipped in your player’s locker!

Piñata Smash
As you play the different mini games, you can win piñatas. You’ve got 30 seconds to smash the piñata to reveal the prizes within.

Trophy Room
Head on into the Trophy Room to see the prizes you have won by completing and winning the mini games.

Locker Room
Here you can equip your character with all of the unlockable gear you’ve discovered along the way! The gear is broken down into categories: headgear, clothing, and equipment.

Mascot Dance
Think you’ve got the moves? Play with Wally the Green Monster, Fredbird, Mr. Met, or Phillie Phanatic. Perform for the crowd and show them what you’ve got. Mimic the gestures on screen with the Nunchuk and Wii Remote to earn points.

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Choosing when and where you are able to listen to your favorite music has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Some might argue that the medium itself has enjoyed the greatest change; however, it is the portability of music and the ability to listen privately that have made personal music payers, well … personal.

And not only has portability increased over the years, so has the sound quality of the music. Other changes and improvements to portable music players have extended to battery life, high-tech headphones, and downloading from the Internet. But, choosing a MP3 player isn’t as simple as grabbing one off the shelf. There are many choices to be made — beyond the price.

Samsung 2GB MP3 Player (Model No: YPU5JQR)

Hard Drive / Flash Memory
All portable MP3 players use one of two different mediums for storing your music: hard drive or flash memory.

Hard Drive:  Players with hard drives usually offer the largest amount of storage space but have a tendency to be physically larger. This means they are much more susceptible to permanent failure due to the fragile nature of hard disks.

Flash Memory:  When comparing song-for-song, flash memory players cannot store as many as their hard drive counterparts. But, they have the clear advantage with the ability to accept external cards. Flash memory also gets the durability factor vote due to its resilient nature to defend hazards such as dropping and they don’t suffer from fragmentation.

An MP3’s storage capacity is rated by megabyte (MB) or gigabyte (GB). One megabyte (1MB) equals approximately one minute of CD-quality MP3 music and songs are ripped from their source at 128kps.

4GB = 1,000 songs – 20GB = 5,000 songs – 60GB = 15,000 songs – 80GB = 20,000 songs

64MB = approximately one hour of music – 512MB card = approximately eight hours of music

File Formats
Ensure the MP3 player you chose can play the file formats you use most. The following is a list of the most commonly used file formats (in alphabetical order) and is not meant to be an all-inclusive list.

Audio
AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, ASF, Audible, FLAC, MP3, MPEG4, OGG, WAV, WMA, WMA Lossless

Video
DivX4, DivX5, H.264, Motion JPEG, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, WMV, XviD

Images
BMP, GIF, JPG, PNG

USB
Although the available hard drive space needed and software required to communicate with your MP3 player might demand a newer computer equipped with the latest-and-greatest specs, an available USB port (1.1 or 2.0) is mandatory for managing your music files. If upload/download speeds are slow, consider hardware improvements to your computer: USB 2.0 (versus 1.1), a larger hard drive, etc.

Sylvania 8GB MP3/Video Player (Model No: SMPK8858)

Coby 4GB MP3/Video Player (Model No: MP7054G)

ID3 Tags
If you’ve ever wondered how MP3 players know the artist, album, and the name of each music song, it is from the embedded ID3 tag. The ID3 tag can also assist in organizing your files on your player using LCD screen (if available).

Batteries
Hard-drive-based MP3 players — especially one that have video capability — can run up your battery power bill very quickly. But, if you’re just listening to music then your hard-drive player should keep going for approximately 14 hours.

Being sans of any moving parts, flash memory is a non-mechanical solid state drives which requires less power to operate than hard drives. This means your flash memory MP3 player should have a battery life of around 20–50 hours.

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Whether you’re waiting out a routine power outage caused by a winter storm or experiencing a full-blow disaster situation, being without the ability to communicate with the outside world could be the difference between life and death. Depending on the situation, there might not be a single 110V outlet working or any other available power sources available for miles. This is where the Etón Solarlink Weather Radio can help because your family needs to stay informed during emergencies.

Etón Solarlink Multi-Purpose Radio (Model No: ARCFR600R)

All the features of the ARCFR600R can be powered from four different sources. It can be powered using the hand-crank powered generator, via the sunlight through its skillfully constructed internal solar panel, with a rechargeable Ni-MH (nickel-metal-hydride) battery pack, or via an AC adapter. Select BATTERY, SOLAR, or DYNAMO with the power supply knob located on the upper-right side of the radio. The power sockets are on the back of the radio, under the rubber covers.

Battery Power
Underneath the battery compartment cover, there are two groups of sockets for installing the batteries. One group of sockets is for the rechargeable Ni-MH batteries and the other group of sockets is for the AA batteries. Install three AA batteries and set the power selector switch to the BATTERY position.

Solar Power
During daytime lighting conditions, use nature’s sunlight to power the ARCFR600R by setting the power switch to the SOLAR position. This position also recharges the Ni-MH rechargeable battery. To use the crank-charge system, open the battery compartment cover and connect the rechargeable batteries’ plug into its socket.

Dynamo Power
The rechargeable Ni-MH battery is located in the battery compartment. To use it, plug the battery into the socket adjacent to it, then set the power switch to the DYNAMO position. You may have to charge the battery before its first use. This can be accomplished by turning the crank for 90 seconds.

DC-IN 5V Adaptor (not included)
This socket is located on the back of the radio, under the rubber plugs. Plug in the AC adapter to the DC-IN 5-volt socket. This also charges the Ni-MH battery.

DC-IN USB Computer Socket (USB cord not included)
This socket is located on the back of the radio, under the rubber plugs. Plug in the USB cord to the DC-IN socket. This also charges the Ni-MH battery.

Views of the back, top, left side, and right side of the ARCFR600R

Charging Cell Phones (cell phone charging cord not included)
To charge you cell phone, turn the power supply knob to the OFF/PHONE CHARGER position. Plug the cell phone charging cord into the USB PHONE CHARGER jack at the rear of the radio. Plug the cell phone charging adapter tip into the other end of the cord and then into the jack of the cell phone. Then place the radio in the sun or revolve the hand crank to charge the cell phone. It takes about 10 minutes of using the hand crank to create enough of a charge to make two, short emergency calls.

Specifications & Features

• Digital Tuner: AM (520–1700 KHz), FM (88–108 MHz), Shortwave (5800–12200 KHz)

• NOAA Weather (all seven channels plus “Alert”)
• S.A.M.E. Technology (location-based weather alerts)
• 5 LED lights (4 white, 1 red)
• Emergency Siren & Flashing Beacon
• Dimensions = 7.75” (196.9 mm) width x 8.5” (215.9 mm) height x 2.5” (63.5 mm) deep
• Weight = 1.9 lbs. (0.86 kg)

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Immediately prior to the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in 2006, today’s “Wii” was known by the code name of “Revolution.” Although Nintendo’s Wii has caused a gaming “Revolution,” there is some rhyme and reason behind the name change. The spelling of “Wii” using the double “ii” characters symbolizes players gathering together. It is also meant to represent the Wii’s unique controllers: Wii Remote and Nunchuk.

Other reasons for the “Wii” name is that is pronounced like “we,” which emphasizes this console is for everyone — not just hardcore gamers. In fact, the Wii has been marketed by Nintendo as the console that will break down the wall that separates video game players from everyone else.

Sensor Bar	Wii Console Stand	Wii AC Adaptor	Wii A/V Cable

Wii System
Wii packs four controller ports and two Nintendo GameCube™ Memory Card slots to make it fully backwards compatible with all Nintendo GameCube™ titles. And Wii links to your TV with an multi-output A/V port featuring component, composite, or S-video. Wii communicates wirelessly with the Internet via your router or a Wii LAN adapter (Wii also connects wirelessly with Nintendo DS).

Wii Remote
With the Wii Remote, Nintendo opens up gaming to people of all ages and abilities. The Wii Remote mixes the familiarity of a remote control with the latest motion-sensing technology. In some gaming circles, Wii Remote has been shortened to the moniker of “Wiimote.”

In a tennis game, the Wii Remote becomes a racket you swing with your arm. In a driving game, it becomes a steering wheel. The possibilities are endless! The Wii Remote also packs a speaker, rumble feature, and external extension connector for other input devices (e.g., classic controller and Nunchuk).

Nunchuk (sold separately)
The Nunchuck hooks up to the Wii Remote via the external extension connector to give players even more flexibility. The Nunchuk has similar motion-sensing technology to the Wii Remote, but also includes two buttons and a control stick. This allows you to move characters around while performing specific actions with the Wii Remote (like throwing a pass).

Left-handed? No problem. The Nunchuk is so ergonomic, players can swap the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk from hand to hand for maximum comfort and control.

Wii Nunchuk Controller

Sensor Bar
The Sensor Bar provides two points of infrared light that the Wii Remote uses to determine the location and distance of your television screen. Wii Remotes can be used from 6–10 feet away. The slender Sensor Bar works silently with up to four Wii Remotes simultaneously to turn those arm-waving moves into game-winning moves.

Accessories & Controllers
There are several other Wii accessories and controllers available that are not listed above which will add to your gaming experience.

Classic Controller Wii Zapper Wii Speak

Wii Wheel Wii Balance Board Wii Motion Plus

Gaming Bundles
Buying a gaming console bundle is a great way to save money and to go from box to playing games in minutes. Not only are games tossed into the mix, but controllers (such as the Nunchuk) and other accessories are often included.

Nintendo Wii System Bundle (Model No: WIIBNDLE)

What’s in the Box?

Wii System (8.5” long, 6” wide, 2” thick) Wii Stand (supports console vertically) Wii Remote Nunchuk Attachment Connector AC Adaptor

Composite Audio/Video Cable Sensor Bar Sensor Bar Stand 2 AA Batteries Wii Sports (five-game complication)

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Selecting the right headphones for your MP3 player or home stereo is a very personal choice. A friend might swear by a pair of earbuds, but they drive you crazy because having something in your ear canal is not comfortable. On the other hand, some people don’t like headphones with a neck/headband because it messes up their hair or they can’t wear a hat. As you can see, headphones are not a one-size-fits-all decision.

Don’t scrimp on your headphones. The reason for this is that the best MP3 player will sound horrible with cheap headphones but a mediocre MP3 player will sound much better with high quality headphones. Picking out headphones involves four major purchase considerations — style/type, fit/comfort, acoustics and overall sound, and lastly … the price.

Earbuds	Ear Clip	Over-the-Ear	Wireless

Although headphones come in two basics forms — in the ear and over the ear — there are actually several different types of headphones that fit into three categories: lightweight, traditional, and wireless.

Lightweight
Headphones in this category are very lightweight — usually due to the removal of the neck/headband that connects the earpieces. The support of the speakers is now derived from your ears, specifically your ear canal. The features of lightweight headphones are that they can be worn for very long periods of time and stay stationary when moving around (walking, running, exercising, etc).

Also fitting into the lightweight category are earbuds that have an ear hook to hold the speakers on the outside of your ear. Some listening devices come with earbuds that have are connected with a lightweight neck/headband, which usually isn’t padded and adjustment to head size isn’t as accurate.

Traditional
This category of headphone comes in two flavors: open and closed (over the ear). The ear pieces on the open style rest on the outside of the ears and are supported by an neck/headband. Similar to earbuds, this style can be used during exercising or other activities without worry of them falling off or moving. Another benefit to this style is they allow some ambient noise to bleed though, which can be great if you’re jogging and listening for traffic.

The over-the-ear closed style of headphones are heavier, but also sturdier — and in many cases, more comfortable. That’s because more detail and thought is put into how the headphones rest on your head and over your ears. Thick padding can be found around the speakers and under the headband.

Wireless
First introduced in 1990, wireless headphones are an audiophile’s dream. If you’ve ever tripped over the cord of your headphones or had an earbud ripped out of your ear, then you understand. There are two types of wireless headphones: infrared and 900 MHz.

Infrared headphones use an infrared signal to link the amplifier to the headphones. The drawback to this style is a direct line communication must be maintained between the headphones and the amplifier. This means if you walk out of room, you might lose your signal.

JVC 900 MHz Headphones (Model No: HAW600RF)	RCA 900 MHz Headphones (Model No: WHP141)

The 900 MHz style eliminate that problem altogether. In fact, you can wander around the house — upstairs, downstairs, through floors and walls — and still be listening to your favorite music. They operate as far away as 150 feet (45.5 m) using a tiny radio transmitter located in the amplifier communicates with a receiver found in the headphones.

hhgrergg proudly carries the Acoustic Research, JVC, RCA, and the Skullcandy lines of headphones.

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TomTom’s ONE 130 is an outstanding entry-level personal navigation device due to its ability to switch on and go right out of the box. Although instructions are included, this device couldn’t be simpler to use — just plug in and tap the touch screen.

Its distinctive design puts a full-size touch screen and the power of GPS in a slim, lightweight device. The crystal-clear display, 3D graphics, and turn-by-turn spoken instructions help you find your way to any address in the United States (including Puerto Rico) and Canada — all with just a few taps of the screen.

The EasyPort™ Mount makes it easy to install or remove the TomTom ONE 130 GPS device from your windshield. Simply turn the dial clockwise and the ONE 130 is ready to receive destination instructions. The EasyPort™ Mount secures to the device with a ring that encircles the large turn-by-turn spoken instructions speaker. The mount also doubles as a speaker protection shield by folding toward the device — completely covering the speaker’s grille — when transporting or stowing the device.

TomTom ONE 130 GPS (Model No: ONE130)

		Door-to-Door Trip Planning ONE 130 comes with the latest and most complete maps of the U.S. (including Puerto Rico) and Canada, preinstalled.
		EasyPort™ Mount Your EasyPort™ Mount folds neatly onto the back of your device, making the whole navigation package fit into your pocket, backpack, or glove compartment. Just fold and go!
		Spoken Instructions A large speaker gives you the best audio quality, eliminating distortions so you hear your instructions loud and clear.
		Points of Interest Easily find millions of preinstalled gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more on your route.
		30-Day Latest Map Guarantee If a new map is released within 30 days of purchase, download it for free from TomTom HOME.
		Help Me! Emergency Menu Direct access to local emergency numbers and directions to the nearest emergency providers such as police, fire, and hospitals.
		TomTom Map Share™ Technology Add to, update, and personalize your maps instantly. Also, download other users’ changes daily. Make corrections to your own map and benefit from thousands of corrections made by TomTom users every day all completely free.
		Traffic Ready (optional) This TomTom device is compatible with the optional RDS-TMC (Traffic Message Channel) receiver, so your routing is optimized for the traffic ahead and potential delays.
		TomTom HOME Ensure that your TomTom is always up-to-date and access additional features with this fee software application. Buy new maps and get free software upgrades through TomTom HOME. So you’ll never be out of date.
		Fuel Price Service (optional) Find the lowest-priced gas on your route.

TomTom ONE 130 GPS (Model No: ONE130)

Accessories
There are many accessories available for TomTom GPS devices that can enhance your navigation experiences.

• TomTom Dashboard Mount

• TomTom Protection Carrying Case
• TomTom MiniUSB Car Charger

Visit the Learning Center to read the Mounting & Storage and Protection & Power Accessories for Your GPS article and if you’re interested in downloading new maps, read the TomTom — How to Get New Maps article.

Technical Specifications

High sensitivity GPS chipset 3.5” Full-Color TFT LCD Touch Screen Resolution: 320 x 240 pixels – 64,000 colors

QVGA Dimensions: 3.8″ (width) x 3.2″ (height) x 1.0″ (depth) Weight: 6.7 ounces

What’s in the Box?

• TomTom ONE 130

• EasyPort™ Mount
• USB Car Charger
• USB Cable
• Documentation

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Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation units have changed the way we drive, travel, and think about the world around us. Whether you’re scoping out the shortest route to work, finding your way back home from a different part of town, or just out for weekend drive through the mountains, GPS units will help get you there and back again.

There are many variables and choices when mounting and protecting your GPS unit. In the case of mounting your GPS, there are several options for mounting: sun visor, dashboard, and windshield. When transporting your GPS unit, your LCD screen must be protected to prevent damage.

Mounting
For GPS devices, mounting options are unique in that you’re not stuck with leaving it the way it was mounted the very first time you used the device. It can be mounted on a dashboard in one car in the morning, the windshield in another car in the afternoon, and hand-held for a walk along a trailhead at sunset — all in the same day.

Here are the mounting options available:

• Cup Holder Mount (removable) or Swivel A/C Vent Mount (removable)

• Pedestal Bicycle Mount (does not require tools for installation)
• Universal Bean Bag (with 3.25-inch suction cup mount plate)
• Dashboard Swivel Pedestal Mount
• Sun Visor Mount
• Windshield Pedestal Mount (adheres to windshield with a suction cup)

TomTom Dashboard Mount (Model No: GPSDASHBAG)

If you don’t like the standard suction cup windshield mounts, consider using a weighted dash mount. They are an excellent choice if you prefer to locate your GPS until on the dash surface. They are a good alternative in states that limit or totally restrict use of standard windshield suction cup mounts.

The TomTom Dashboard Mount is made of sturdy nylon fabric and filled with sand (mount is completely sealed and doesn’t leak). Plus, the dashboard mount has a friction base and a hook/safety anchor to keep it stationary under the bumpiest of driving conditions. A smooth disc-shaped surface in the middle provides the spot for attaching the suction cup mount.

TomTom Dashboard Mount (Model No: GPSDASHBAG)

Review the applicable laws in your state in reference to mounting a GPS device to your windshield. At least one state prohibits mounting on the windshield at all and another state requires specific locations — down to the inch — where mounting is acceptable and legal. Many other states have enacted restrictions against placing objects on the windshield that obstruct the diver’s vision in any way, shape, or form.

Storage & Protection
Using a safe storage method when your GPS unit it is not needed is important to keep the unit from being damaged and to help keep all your navigation accessories in one location. You don’t want to scratch your LCD screen to the point you miss out on all the vibrant colors and great resolution. Considering your GPS device is operated using a touch screen, excessive fingerprints and scratches could alter and/or damage the way your unit performs.

Case Logic 4.3″ Flat-Screen GPS Case (Model No: GPSP2)

Storage cases are available in generic, one-size-fits-all, and size and brand/model specific sizes. Some cases are large enough, though still compact, to encase the GPS unit, the dock/mount, and any other accessories. This is a great feature when using a rental car or other borrowed vehicle to ensure you don’t leave any of your valuable GPS unit’s accessories behind.

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hhgregg proudly carries the wide selection of accessories for your GPS navigation needs.

The latest craze in the digital revolution is the portable eBook reader. Never before has curling up to a good book been so easy and convenient. Now you can digitally store and carry around with you thousands of your favorite books — saving money and space on your bookshelf. It is like having your local city library at your fingertips!

eBooks are eco-friendly from helping to conserve the environment by saving trees and eliminating pollution associated with shipping books to the far corners of the Earth. They are even easier to use than a paperbound book because you have content search capabilities and there is easy navigation between books and pages. Plus, eBooks have bookmarks and auto-page turn functions.

Aluratek “Libre” eBook PRO (Model No: 2528472)

Auratek’s “Libre” (Spanish translation = FREE) eBook Reader PRO connects to the most recent published books as well as access to free timeless classics via any computer with an Internet connection. Build your library today with new releases or choose from over one million free public domain titles from Google Books or Project Gutenberg. Plus, most public libraries have an inventory of eBooks available for lending. e-Paper Technology The “Libre” is soft on the eyes utilizing an exclusive e-paper LCD technology. This amazing technology provides a crisp, black & white 5-inch screen with the same appearance and readability of printed paper — making it difficult to determine the difference between actual paper and the e-paper screen. With no backlight, reading on the “Libre” is like reading a book. The following electronic book formats are supported: PDF, TXT, FB2, EPUB, MOBI, PRC and RTF. Battery: Recharge & Standby Included with the “Libre” is an internal and rechargeable Li-Ion polymer battery that lets you read for up to 24 hours continuously for that really good book that you just can’t put down. Just in case you do happen to fall asleep, the “Libre” is equipped with an auto-off feature and alerts you when it’s time to recharge with a low-level warning. If you are concerned with how much battery life you have left, there is a battery level indicator and the “Libre” has two week’s worth of battery standby life.

Screen Rotation & Font Size/Type
If you catch yourself squinting to read the words on a regular computer screen, you won’t have that problem with the “Libre.” That’s because both the font point size and font type are adjustable to suit your reading needs. Plus, the “Libre” has screen rotation support for reading either in portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) mode.

Music & Photos
The multi-capability of the “Libre” extends to viewing photos and listening to music. The following image formats are supported: BMP, JPG, GIF, GIF (animated). The “Libre” has a built-in MP3 player with background playback support for listening to music while you’re reading.

Aluratek “Libre” eBook PRO (Model No: 2528472)

Free Books!
A 2GB SD card with 100 ebooks is included with the “Libre.” There isn’t anything to download and no forms to fill out — all 100 titles are preloaded on the SD card. You’ll be able to read classics such as 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, A Tale of Two Cities, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and much more!

What’s in the Box?

eBook Reader PRO 32GB SD Card Slot (2GB SD card included) USB Cable Power Charger

Hand Strap / Carrying Pouch Earphones Quick Start Guide Warranty & Registration Card

Still have questions? Feel free to speak to an expert hhgregg sales associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

No matter if you’re poolside on a hot summer day or feeling a chill in the air while stargazing on a fall night, nothing compares to the great outdoors when entertaining your guests. And the perfect complement to your party is the sounds from your stereo, whether lightly providing discreet background music or some thumpin’ bass for an impromptu dance floor on the lawn.

But, the great outdoors is known for sudden changes in temperature, wind, and other weather-related issues that would raise havoc on expensive home stereo speakers — even one use outside could permanently damage them. So, what a game of lawn darts to do with no tunes? With Dual’s 2-way outdoor rock speakers — problem solved!

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION!
With the LUR66E speaker’s rock-like appearance, it blends into the surrounding environment for an unobtrusive presence. Plus, you can place it virtually anywhere outside that you want to hear music — patio, back yard, second floor deck, etc.

Dual 6.5” 2-Way Rock Speakers (Model No: LUR66E)

Just because the LUR66E has a rugged look of weathered sandstone, doesn’t mean it has to live its entire life outdoors. When the party is over, use the speaker in terrariums, interior gardens, or simply keep them connected to your home stereo system. Plus, with each speaker weighing a measly 6.2 pounds, transporting them will be a breeze.

DESIGN
The LUR66E is extremely versatile and has a weather resistant design using the most durable components, including a fiber-reinforced poly resin composite enclosure. This allows it to resist rain, hail, snow, and coastal environments while still appearing natural and inconspicuous. Even after years of use, the LUR66E will provide a superior level of sun fade resistance and the reduced appearance of water marks. The LUR66E measures 9.63” wide x 8.75” deep x 8.75” tall and has a 10 ounce magnet.

MAINTENANCE & CARE
Although the LUR66E speaker is designed to resist weather and withstand unfriendly environmental conditions, there are precautions you should take to optimize the long-term life and performance. Keep soil and other debris from covering the speaker grille. For easy cleaning, debris can be easily rinsed away with a garden hose using low water pressure sprayed at a 45-degree angle.

Yard care chemicals constitute another element that can prematurely shorten the LUR66E’s life. Lawn fertilizers and weed control sprays, and similar chemicals commonly used in lawn and garden care can potentially cause damage to the rubber and speaker components.

CONNECTIONS
The LUR66E rock speaker has a two-conductor speaker wire surrounded by a cable sleeve exiting the bottom of the speaker. Any speaker cable used to extend the connection should be of a similar size (wire gauge) running from the speaker location to your audio system.

The cable or wire can be run either directly beneath the speaker into the ground, or you can use the notch on the bottom edge of the speaker enclosure to exit the cable out the rear for hard-surface installations. For the best audio results, try to minimize the distance between your speaker and the audio source (optimum run should be no longer than 50 feet). Wire runs longer than 50 feet may require larger gauge wire (e.g., 14 or 12).

SOUND COVERAGE & SPEAKER PLACEMENT
Each LUR66E is sold separately, as many outdoor installations have multiple zones. Most applications will include the installation of two speakers to ensure adequate sound coverage. When reviewing your placement choices, allow for an approximate coverage area of 100 to 450 sq. ft. (per pair).

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A radar/laser detector is a passive electronic device used by drivers of all types of motor vehicles (see RESTRCTIONS heading below). Only Doppler radar-based devices which utilize the Doppler effect for measuring velocity can be detected. Most of today’s radar/laser detectors can detect signals across a variety of wavelength bands — X, K, Ka, and Ku (Europe).

RADAR/LASER GUNS
Most law enforcement agencies have access to two types of electronic transmitting devices to capture the speed of your vehicle — radar guns and laser guns — with radar being the most common.

Cobra 14-Band Radar/Laser Detector (Model No: XRS9445)

Radar is simply a microwave radio signal and at a distance of 1,000 feet, a radar beam shot from a police radar gun is approximately 85-feet wide. Under normal conditions, radar can penetrate plastic, glass, cardboard, and even your body! Radar’s weakness is penetrating metals, including some types of window tinting that has metalized layers.

Laser is a light beam and is only 18 inches wide at 500 feet. Because the beam is so narrow, the beam can be affected by virtually anything placed between the laser gun and the detector.

SAFETY & RADAR DETECTION
The main use of radar detectors by motorists since their inception is to determine if vehicle speed is being monitored by law enforcement agencies via a radar unit. A second, possibly even more important usage is the early detection and warning of high-speed emergency vehicles (e.g., police, fire, EMS).

In addition to emergency vehicles, transmitters have also been installed in road construction and Department of Transportation vehicles. This incredible feature also extends to alerting the driver to railroad crossings and stationary roadside hazard locations. Used in municipalities in all 50 states, the FFC-approved Safety Alert® system by Cobra Electronics has resulted in a marked reduction of accidents and increased roadway safety.

RESTRICTIONS: Types of Vehicles
U.S. federal law prohibits the operation of radar detectors in all commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds. In some states — such as Alabama, Ohio, and Tennessee — use of radar detection device is prohibited in all commercial vehicles, regardless of the weight. Also of note, is that the operation of radar detectors is illegal on all U.S. military base, regardless is they are legal in that state.

MOUNTING
All radar/laser detectors include some form of mounting hardware (e.g., bracket and suction cups) to place the detector in one of two different locations: windshield or dashboard. Some detectors can be mounted in either location or even affixed to a sun visor.

The location of your detector equates to communication visibility between your detector and the radar/laser gun. This means that anything between your detector and the signal can cause false readings or no reading at all, even if a signal is present. Because each detector can vary, follow the mounting instructions in your owner’s manual for optimum performance.

CITY/HIGHWAY MODES
Depending on the type of driving conditions you’re encountering, most radar/laser detectors have the option to select specific operating modes: city or highway. This drastically reduces the frequency of falsing in densely populated urban areas. The “City Mode” dampens weaker and broken signals consistent with frequent false alarms. The “Highway Mode” is best used for freeway or other open-road driving and is set for increased sensitivity and will provide the maximum warning for higher-speed driving conditions.

Still have questions? Feel free to speak to an expert hhgregg sales associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

hhgregg proudly carries the Cobra line of radar detectors.

Your cell phone is your lifeline to the world and is one of those electronic gadgets that you just can’t live without. That’s because it keeps you connected to family and friends, and ensures you don’t miss that all important phone call from work when you’re on the road. But when you’re home, how do you match the convenience of your cell phone to the power of a home phone? Enter Panasonic’s Expandable Bluetooth® Cell Clink Convergence Telephone System.

Now there’s a better way to make and receive calls at home with the ultimate in comfort and convenience. Panasonic Link-to-Cell uses Bluetooth® technology to connect your cell calls to your home handset extensions. No more running for your cell, walking around looking for good reception, or cradling that little phone on your shoulder. Talk comfortably and clearly on your cell anywhere in your house.

Panasonic DECT 6.0 Expandable Bluetooth® Cell Link System
(Model No: KXTH1212)

How Does It Work?
First, your cell phone must be capable of using Bluetooth® technology and depending on your carrier, additional charges may apply. Next, link your cell phone to the Link-to-Cell base unit (included) and you’re good to go. It’s really that easy! Set up only takes seconds. Once you set up your Link-to Cell system, the handsets will automatically connect to your cell phone as long as it’s within 30 feet of the base unit.

A second cell phone can be connected to the Link-to-Cell base unit without additional equipment. Plus, you don’t even have to have an active home telephone line to utilize this system. Another benefit to this system is the ability to take advantage of your cell plan’s free nights and weekend minutes.

Talking Caller ID
As if linking your cell phone to your home phone wasn’t cool enough, Talking Caller ID lets you know who is calling and custom ring tones tell you which cell phone is ringing (if you’ve linked more than one cell phone).

Now you don’t have to be holding the phone to see who is calling. Using text-to-speech technology, the Caller ID information is announced between rings. This Panasonic DECT phone also boasts a talking alarm clock that will tell you when it’s time for lunch, and a talking battery alert that politely tells you when your battery is low with a “please charge phone” reminder.

Features by the Numbers

50 Caller ID Memory	7 Ringer Tones	3-Step Talk Volume Control
7 Hour Charge Time	5 Hour Talk Time (battery)	Base Unit Weight 0.63 lbs.
5 History Name & Number Redial	50 Phone Book Entries	4 Ringer Melodies

Night Mode
If you’ve even been woken up to a ringing phone, you’ll really appreciate the Night Mode which lets you choose where the phone rings. Simply program each handset to ring—or not ring—at your discretion. Before going to sleep, simply set the bedside handset to Night Mode so that it won’t ring in your bedroom, waking you from a deep sleep. Place the other handset in any other location in your home where it will ring if any calls come in throughout the night without disturbing the person who’s sleeping.

To purchase the Panasonic’s Expandable Bluetooth® Cell Clink Convergence Telephone System, click here.

Still have questions? Feel free to speak to an expert hhgregg sales associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

In response to a viewer request, we’ve brought in the Garmin nuvi 265WT once more to give a brief tutorial on how to input and navigate to custom points of interest (POIs), as well as how to mount the unit on your dash using the self-adhesive disc.

If you have questions on how to operate the Garmin nuvi 265WT, or have suggestions for other videos for this or other products found on hhgregg.com or in your local hhgregg store, please leave us a comment here on the blog or our hhgreggblog YouTube channel.

The Garmin nuvi 265WT is a feature-rich GPS unit.  The following video highlights several useful and commonly used features of this device:

• Syncing the device with you mobile phone allows you hands-free access to take and place calls using the speaker and microphone built into the device.
• Real-time traffic reports warn you of any major slowdowns and easily allows you to reroute your destination to save time and headache.
• Points of interest help you quickly find an ATM, gas station, restaurant, hospital or other landmark nearest your current location.

For more details on this or other GPS devices, vist your local hhgregg store or browse hhgregg’s GPS/Navigation selection on hhgregg.com.

You may have found yourself wondering how to use your new Personal Navigation Device to do more than just finding the closest Starbucks. The following video will show you how you can do this.

Here we show you how to use your Garmin nuvi 265WT to find a Geocache and how to find locations using only the longitude and latitude coordinates.

When and where you listen to your favorite music has drastically changed over the past century. We’ve seen vinyl records, reel-to-reel tapes, 8-tracks, and cassettes come and go. In a vain attempt to make music more portable, in-car record players were offered as an option on selected 1956 Dodge, DeSoto, Chrysler, and Plymouth models. Obviously, the results were disastrous. No further attempts were made and the program was completely abandoned.

Until the 1990s, audiophiles were restricted to listening to their private music collection at home or were at the mercy of the short lifespan of several D-cell batteries when jamming with their boombox at the beach or the park. Another drawback to all the playback mediums available at the time was that your entire collection couldn’t be brought along with you. You had to pick a few favorites when you left the house and then leave the rest of your music at home. Not anymore!

Let’s fast-forward to September 1995, when the first real-time software MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 (aka MP3) player was released and in turn the public availability of the portable MP3 player in 1998. With these two inventions, the possibilities began to sound in the listening ear of music fans all over the world. Now you can listen to your entire music collection anywhere on the planet.

TYPES OF DOCKING STATIONS
Docking stations come in all shapes and sizes but their primary use is to play the music from your portable MP3 player through home stereo quality speakers. In space-restricted areas such as a dorm room, a docking station will provide plenty of sound while taking up considerably less space than a full-blown home stereo setup.

Other forms of entertainment where you might find a docking station are televisions (currently limited to JVC’s LCD TV TeleDock) and various home theater systems. Both will severely limit your portability options, but dramatically increase in sound volume and quality.

Most docking stations will recognize your MP3 player as soon as it is set into the cradle. From there you can control the music with the circle control, touch screen, or the docking station’s remote control.

MORE THAN JUST SPEAKERS
All docking stations offer external speakers but some offer additional features such as: 

• AM/FM clock radio with the ability for you to wake up to music from your MP3 player.
• Snap-in iPod® adapter pack (newer generation iPods® include adapters).
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery plus charges your MP3 while listening to music.
• Wireless remote control which can work the basic functions of your MP3 player.
• Auxiliary input jack (3.5mm) with cable to connect non-compatible MP3 players.
• Dual power source – wall cord and battery.
• Traditional-style or discreet handles for easy transportation.

MADE FOR iPod®
There are many different brands and types of portable MP3 players and not all of them have a specific docking station compatible with them. This means not all MP3 players will work on all MP3 docking stations-check before you purchase.

In January 2005, Apple began a program to certify products as “Made for iPod” with a badge affixed to the product packaging of the MP3 device. This ensures non-Apple brand devices (e.g., docking stations, car adapters, speakers, power supplies, etc.) meet minimum quality standards and are fully compatible for use with specific generations of iPods/iPhones.

If the docking station doesn’t have the badge, it doesn’t necessarily mean an iPod® device won’t work on your docking station; it simply means it might not have been tested and approved by Apple’s performance standards. The badge does not apply to polishes, cases, or similar accessories which are considered nontechnical products.

FINAL THOUGHTS
The playlists on your MP3 player represents everything about you and since you go everywhere-so should your music. Although having all your favorite songs with you 24/7 on your portable MP3 player is awesome, they require you to don earbuds or headphones for listening. Not always convenient or practical-a docking station is the perfect answer. You can walk from room to room in your home and have a conversation while still listening to music without being tethered to you MP3 player.

Check out our line of MP3 Accessories including docking stations, cables, and cases. If you’re in the market for an MP3 player first, we have several to choose from here.

Still have questions?-Feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

ENERGY STAR was created in 1992 and is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The program is considered an international standard for identifying and promoting energy-efficient products that reduce consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. Although the program was created in the United States, many other countries-Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan, and the European Union-have also adopted the program as their standard.

Participation in the program is considered voluntary for manufacturers and individual products in a company’s catalog can be qualified as ENERGY STAR. The first products to pass the stringent qualifications and proudly wear the blue label were computers and monitors. The label is now affixed to over 60 product categories (and thousands of models) including:

• Major Appliances
• Home Electronics
• Office Equipment
• Lighting
• Buildings

HOW MUCH CAN I SAVE?
The typical American household spends nearly $2,000 a year on energy bills to power appliances and electronics. When using qualified products, savings can reach 30 percent or more and return $700 back into your bank account. These savings also show a marked reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the fears of going “green” with consumer products is they won’t perform as well as their energy-burning counterparts. Not true. Qualified products deliver the same or even better performance as comparable models while using less energy to operate. With energy bills being a hot news topic on the minds of consumers, conservation can also come in the form of what to do when you’re not using a product.

You might be surprised to learn that products-even ENERGY STAR qualified products-use electricity whether they are on or off. It doesn’t matter if the appliance is off but plugged directly into the wall or if your cell phone charger is plugged into the wall but your phone is in your pocket-they both use waste electricity. If you’re working online but want to run to the refrigerator for a snack, put your computer to sleep. The five minutes you just spent eating your sandwich and chips just conserved some energy.

WHAT CAN I DO?
The first thing a consumer can do when shopping for a new appliance or electronic item is place ENERGY STAR at the top of their checklist. Even if you already own qualified products, there are other things you can do to ensure you’re conserving energy.

Washers – Don’t run your washer until you have a full load and always wash in cold water, if possible. An ENERGY STAR qualified washer will save 75,000 gallons of water over its lifetime and save you $550 at the same time.

Televisions – An ENERGY STAR qualified model is 30 percent more energy-efficient. Simply turning off the TV when you’re not in the room will save a lot of energy.

Computers – If you really need to leave your desktop or laptop computer on when you leave the room, let it take a nap while you’re gone by putting it to sleep.

Light Bulbs – When the light bulbs in your home burn out, replace them with compact fluorescent lamps (CFL). They are 75 percent more energy efficient than a traditional incandescent bulb, last as much as 10 times longer, and produce 75 percent less heat.

Ceiling Fans – An ENERGY STAR qualified ceiling fan is 50 percent more energy efficient and spins quieter and faster. To ensure your ceiling fan is operating at its optimum, set the fan to spin clockwise in winter and counterclockwise in summer.

ENERGY SPENT – Where did it all go?
If you were to take inventory of every single item in your home that consumes electricity, the number would probably surprise you. Additional items-multiple TVs, gaming systems, and the freezer in the garage-all affect your family’s annual utility bill even more. Let’s look at a typical household’s annual utility bill and see where the money went and how much you can save:

Heating Cooling Water Heater Other Lighting Washer/Dryer Refrigerator Dishwasher TV, VCR, DVD Computer/Monitor	$688 $257 $245 $239 $184 $107 $87 $47 $35 $22
TOTAL	$1,900

If all 10 items listed were using ENERGY STAR qualified products, your family could save 30 percent off your utility bill which equates to $600 annually. That amounts to more money than your water heater, lighting, washer/dryer, TV, and computer combined!

The average house is responsible for 22,000 lbs of greenhouse gas emissions per year-twice as much as the average car. An ENERGY STAR qualified home can prevent 4,500 lbs of greenhouse gasses from entering the atmosphere each year.

QUALIFICATIONS
Manufacturers go the extra mile when preparing and submitting their products for qualification testing. Their research and development teams specifically design products with the ENERGY STAR qualification in mind. Each product category has different qualifications that must be met.

Dishwashers – Must use at least 41 percent less energy than the federal minimum standard for energy consumption.

Refrigerators – Must use at least 20 percent less energy than required by current federal standards and use 40 percent less energy than conventional models sold in 2001.

Freezers – Must use at least 10 percent less energy than required by current federal standards.

Computer Monitors – Must use from 25-60 percent less electricity than standard models, depending on how they are used.

Televisions – Must use approximately 30 percent less energy than standard units.

Home Audio – Must use approximately 6 percent less energy than standard models.

FINAL THOUGHTS
In 2008, Americans-with the help of ENERGY STAR-saved $19 billion on their energy bills and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 29 million cars. Since the program’s inception, Americans have purchased more than 2.5 billion ENERGY STAR qualified products. And it doesn’t stop there-qualification has branched out to businesses, street lights, vending machines, and more.

Through its partnership with more than 15,000 public and private sector organizations, ENERGY STAR will continue to provide the tools and technical information to both consumers and businesses so they can make informed, energy-efficient decisions.

Still have questions?-feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

When purchasing a new appliance or television, you might not have thought of what to do with the old one until the new one is in your home, ready to be installed. Now what? There’s always the option of putting your old TV in your bedroom and the old refrigerator in the garage. But then again, you replaced them because they were old, not working right, and didn’t match the new colors of your kitchen remodel.

Most waste management programs consider preventing waste even before it happens as the most viable option-even above recycling. This means if your appliance or electronic items are still in working condition, consider selling them or donating them to a charity or other donation center for reselling. The benefit for this is twofold: when the charity sells the item, the proceeds go to medical research or other worthwhile causes and some items end up in the homes of needy families to be used again.

If your appliance has seen better days and is in dire need of repair, skip the charities and donation centers and just recycle the item so that someone else doesn’t end up with your problems. In most cases, recycling doesn’t cost you anything but a small amount of your time and you just might end up with a few dollars in your wallet in the form of cash or a tax deduction on your annual return.

WHY RECYCLE?
There are a multitude of reasons to recycle your appliances and electronics-the most important of which is pollution-or rather the prevention of pollution. When you see a TV sitting quietly curbside waiting for the weekly trash pickup service, you can be sure there are toxic chemicals inside the unit that can pollute our earth and waterways. Other forms of pollution are the efforts needed to mine new resources-such as aluminum, gold, and steel-instead of reusing what’s already been dug up and processed.

The best thing to do is find a local recycling center to donate your items. If they have free, local pickup, your end of the deal could be no more than placing a phone call and setting the item outside in an area accessible to their crew. The recycling center will disassemble the unit to retrieve metals and other items that are used again-recycled-to create new TVs and other products.

CRT Processing Corporation (Janesville, WI)
They specialize in the proper recycling of used or obsolete
computer monitors, televisions, and other electronic equipment.
HAUL IT AWAY
One option you’ve got that won’t cost you time or money is to have hhgregg haul your old unit away-for free-on a one-for-one exchange basis. This means our delivery team will haul away your old refrigerator when they arrive to deliver your new refrigerator. Now that’s service! Here’s a list of items that hhgregg will haul away when they arrive to deliver a like item:

Refrigerators Washers/Dryers Ranges

Microwave Ovens Dishwashers Televisions

If you have any questions about this policy, please review our “Home Delivery Do’s and Don’ts” or contact the hhgregg store nearest your home.

OPTIONS & CHOICES
You can be sure that every single appliance and home electronics piece of equipment in your home-including video consoles/games and cell phones-has a recycling center that wants your stuff. Here are some resources to find an organization to handle your unwanted items:

Samsung – Launched on October 1, 2008, Samsung Recycling Direct^SM is a national program which enables consumers to conveniently and responsibly recycle their old electronics. Samsung Recycling Direct^SM provides more than 170 fixed drop off locations spread out over all 50 states. To find the location nearest you, click here.

myGreenElectronics – Learn about the 4 R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rethink) and find recycling centers in your neighborhood by ZIP Code.

AT&T Reuse and Recycle – They offer the option to bring unwanted cell phones, Personal Data Assistants (PDAs) and other accessories (regardless of the manufacturer or carrier) to an AT&T operated store or participating authorized dealer store near you. Use the store locator to find a participating store near you.

Earth 911 – Earth 911 is a comprehensive communication medium for the environment. Earth 911 has taken environmental hotlines, web sites and other information sources nationwide, and consolidated them into one network. Once you contact the Earth 911 network, you will find community-specific information on eCycling and much more.

Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) – If it’s rechargeable, it’s recyclable! RBRC can help you recycle portable rechargeable batteries commonly found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote control toys. Search for collection sites by Zip Code.

Sony – Has a recycling program that makes it easy to dispose of electronics in an environmentally-safe way. Bring your unwanted electronic products to any participating drop off center and recycle it for free.

Hewlett-Packard (HP) – Their recycling program includes hardware, LaserJet supplies, and Inkjet supplies. They also have a trade-in program.

LG Electronics – Offers consumers-free of charge-recycling of any product such as televisions, monitors, audio equipment, video cassette players and recorders, DVD players and recorders, combination TV/VCR and TV/DVD units, set top boxes and accessories associated with those products that have the LG, Zenith, or Goldstar brands. Consumers can drop off up to five items at any one time for free at any of these locations.

Toshiba – With the Toshiba Free Electronic Program you can recycle your old electronics regardless of the brand and at no cost to you. They also provide a trade-in option should you want to trade in your used products for cash.

Motorola – Consumers can visit Motorola’s website to print out postage-paid mailing labels (PDF) and send in any unused phones or accessories. They accept any mobile phone or accessory-not just Motorola products.

1-800-Got-Junk? – Full-service junk removal company that will remove almost anything-including appliances. Plus, they do all the loading and cleanup-wherever the item is located. This means you don’t have to lift a finger and they’ll retrieve the item out of your basement, garage, kitchen, etc.

FINAL THOUGHTS
The most important thing to remember is that we all have choices in the proper disposing of appliances and electronics that don’t work anymore or have been replaced with the latest and greatest advances in technology. Dumping them in the trash is not an option and could have long-term affects on the environment-where we all live and breathe.

Some states have enacted legislation around disposal of consumer electronics. Since July 20, 2006, all waste computer monitors and televisions generated by households in the state of Maine must be recycled unless shipped out of state for disposal. For information on regulations in your area, contact your local municipality to inquire about private and state-funded recycling programs.

Still have questions?-feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

The 3 R’s-Reduce, Reuse, Recycle-are part of the waste hierarchy which classifies waste management strategies according to their order of importance in the prevention of waste and pollution. The goal of all waste management strategies is to extract the maximum practical benefits from consumer and commercial products and to generate the minimum amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Some waste management experts, such as mygreenelectronics.org, have incorporated a fourth R to the waste hierarchy. The fourth R is “Rethink” and is placed at the end of the original three R’s. Its definition is totally different than Reduce, Reuse, or Recycle because it asks the consumer to stand back and “think” about making more environmentally-friendly choices before making their purchases. These choices would include buying products which use less energy, are made with recycled materials, and are easier to upgrade and repair.

SYMBOL OF RECYCLING
Although there have been several different symbols, logos, and even flags that represent ecology, conservation, and protecting the environment, the 3R logo says it all without words. No matter which green arrow you start on, you’ll end up recycling back to where you started from over and over again-the whole point of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

REDUCE
An excellent example of reducing consumption of a product by not using it at all is grocery and retail store plastic bags. Instead of using a plastic bag when purchasing one or two easily transportable items, just hand-carry them out of the store (with the receipt visible). You’ve just Reduced by not using a plastic bag that would then be required to be Reused and/or Recycled. Some stores sell a canvas bag for a nominal fee that can be used to carry out the items you’ve purchased. On your next trip to the same store, just bring the canvas bag with you. Using the canvas bag over and over again prevents you from accumulating plastic bags that were only used for a few minutes at most.

If you prefer using the plastics bags or don’t want to purchase one or more canvas bags, then bring your used plastic bags back to the store on your next trip for recycling. Most stores have a convenient plastic bag recycling bin located near the entrance (usually near the shopping carts). Chances are you’ve walked right by the bin dozens of times already-just drop your bags in the bin and go shopping!

Another way to reduce consumption is to say NO to junk mail. Your home’s mailbox can be cluttered with catalogs, free offers, and other unwanted advertisements. Look for an e-mail address or telephone number to contact these organizations and then ask to be removed from their mailing list. It will save you from having to recycle the catalog or advertisement and the company that sells the products will save postage and paper.

REUSE
Instead of throwing unwanted items away or even before you decide to recycle something, ask yourself, “Can this be Reused?” Just because your favorite recliner has seen better days doesn’t mean it’s ready for the trash. Donate the chair to a charitable outlet such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, veterans groups, or other organizations. Most of the time members of these groups can repair the item and then sell it for a profit for their cause-and in turn keeping the chair from being buried in a landfill. These organizations will probably be happy to receive your donation, no matter the condition.

If you’ve got an entire collection of stuff in your house that you can’t stand the sight of anymore, consider a solo or group yard sale in your neighborhood. A group yard sale will divvy up the labor and provide a much wider selection for your early bird shoppers. You’ll probably make a little pocket change and everything that is sold will be Reused by someone else.

Another way to look at Reusing is to repair a broken item yourself or have a qualified repairman do the work if the item warrants skilled repair. Both options can breathe new life into the item and could provide several more years of service. Even if you’ve had your washer for a few years, it might just need a new belt or simply an adjustment. Consider getting a couple estimates on a costly item before you decide if repair or replacement is your best option.

RECYCLE
This is the end of the line for the useful life of most household items-or is it? Actually, it is amazing what items might return to a store shelf after being recycled. Plastic is definitely recyclable but usually returns to the marketplace in a new form. For example, a plastic soda bottle can come back as a pocket comb, carpet, or even clothing. Car tires can be shredded into crumbs and dropped onto artificial turf football and soccer fields to give the illusion of dirt mixed in with the faux grass.

Probably the most common form of Recycling is aluminum cans and is considered a 3R success story. When aluminum cans are Recycled, they save an incredible 95 percent of the energy used to make a new can and can be recycled almost indefinitely. Paper falls into this same category since it is made into new paper and can be recycled many times over.

Just about every item in your home, office, or school can be recycled into something else-even if it is just more paper or more aluminum cans. Even items such as a brand new computer case might have been constructed from ordinary recycled plastics. Here’s a partial list of items which can be found in any home that can be Recycled:

• Steel Cans (veggie cans, coffee cans, soup cans, etc.)
• Plastic Bottles (milk jugs, shampoo bottles, soda bottles, etc.)
• Magazines, Newspapers, and Advertisements
• Wood and Lumber Products
• Appliances (washer/dryer, microwave, refrigerator, etc.)
• Electronics (MP3 players, GPS devices, home stereos, etc.)
• Cardboard and Paper
• Oil, Paint, and Chemicals

 
INCENTIVES FOR RECYCLING
There should be no incentive for following the 3R system other than protecting the environment but some cash in your pocket can’t hurt. Depending on where and how you chose to use the 3R system, you might receive a tax deduction, immediate cash, or other tangible benefit for your efforts.

Sure you get rewarded in a feel-good inside kind of way when you follow the 3Rs but rewarding consumers for Recycling-with cash, coupons, or other incentives-can have long-term benefits for everyone involved. Incentives can give a non-recycler a reason to get involved, the casual recycler a reason to step it up a notch, and an ardent recycler will feel rewarded for their dedication.

RECYCLING BY THE NUMBERS
Most plastics can be Recycled, but require sorting by their individual polymer types before recycling. In 1988, an internationally used system was developed by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI). Because of the logistics-collecting, sorting, cleaning, and reprocessing-it is only economically viable to recycle resin codes #1 and #2. Most communities through the United States will only collect resin codes #1 and #2 in their municipal recycling programs. As markets expand, the range of plastic resin codes collected will grow.

The following table shows the relationship between the original uses and recycled uses by polymer and resin code. The examples listed in original uses and recycled uses are not meant to be all-inclusive and display only a few of the uses and possibilities.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Running your household’s 3R program does require year-round dedication. Other members of your family might yammer when you dig items out of the kitchen garbage and place them in the recycle bin but your dedication will not go unnoticed. If you run the 3R program in your home and you’ve got a non-recycler in your midst, try taking them to the recycle center with you or share with them the cash reward for recycling something such as aluminum cans. Remind them the money came from the 3R program and you’ll soon have a helper on your hands.

Still have questions?-feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

In the digital world in which we live the words “wireless” and “Wi-Fi” are tossed around to identify the advancement of technology-sans the cord. Unlike the endless power supply available from wall outlets located all over your home or business, cordless … er, wireless electronic devices-cell phones, camcorders, cameras, and more-rely on battery power.

The electricity inside the battery itself is no different than the outlets in your home or office; it is simply the amount of power available that is the issue. When an electronic device has exhausted all power available from its onboard batteries, it is time to recharge the batteries-that is if they are rechargeable.

RECHARGEABLE – How do I know?
Proper identification of A, AA, C, D, and 9V household batteries as rechargeable or not is easy. Although the product packaging will identify the batteries it contains as rechargeable, each individual battery will have the word “RECHARGEABLE” printed directly onto the side of it. This is to ensure there is no mistaken identity when placing them in a charger for continued use. Attempting to recharge non-rechargeable batteries may cause them to burst or explode causing personal injury and/or damage to your charger. 

RECHARGING YOUR BATTERIES
When the power on your electronic device has dwindled down to nothing, you’ll need to charge your batteries. But, how do you do it? For household batteries such as A, AA, C, D, and 9V, you’ll need an external battery charger. Some rechargeable batteries such as those contained in the Energizer 15 Minute Charger Kit come with four AA in the package along with a charger

Some chargers plug directly into the AC (alternating current) outlet in your home while others use an AC adapter. Car chargers (DC (direct current) adapters) are perfect for when you’re headed out the door for a road trip and are worried your batteries will run dry before you’ve taken that last shot of the mountains.

 To charge your batteries (at home or in the car), follow these simple steps:

STEP 1 – Plug the AC adapter’s barrel plug into the DC input jack of the charger.

STEP 2 – Plug the AC adapter into a standard AC outlet or the DC auxiliary jack in your car.

STEP 3 – Place 1, 2, 3, or 4 batteries into the battery compartment according to the polarity symbols (positive + and negative -) marked inside each charging bay. An LED indicator light will change to red to indicate charging has begun.

STEP 4 – When the LED indicator light turns from red to green, the batteries are ready for use. To obtain maximum performance, batteries may be left in the charger for an additional 10 minutes after the LED indicator light turns off.

STEP 5 – Remove the batteries and unplug the AC adapter from the outlet when charging is completed.

STEP 6 – Place the batteries back into your electronic device and ensure they are working properly.

Some electronic products-cameras and camcorders-are OEM equipped with Li-ion battery packs and a charger to juice up the battery while it is still installed in the device. No need to remove the battery-just plug the charger into the device and into an AC wall outlet and you’re good to go. Refer to your owner’s manual for specifics on how to connect the charger to the device and the wall outlet and how to know your battery has been successfully charged.

Li-ion rechargeable battery packs from Canon, JVC, and Sony

GREEN BATTERIES
Purchasing rechargeable batteries for your electronic devices is probably the easiest way to go green of all the recyclable products available. For example, it doesn’t matter what beverage you drink from an aluminum can, you still end up with an empty can that has no use until it is recycled. With rechargeable batteries, you simply place them back into the charger to be used over and over again.

Approximately three billion batteries are sold annually in the United States alone-that’s around 10 batteries per person! Americans discard almost 180,000 tons of batteries each year which end up in our landfills (166,000 tons are single-use (alkaline) batteries and 14,000 tons are rechargeable batteries).

Considering batteries contain various amounts of heavy metals-mercury, lead, cadmium, zinc, manganese, and nickel-not properly disposing of batteries that have reached their usable life will contaminate our environment. When municipal landfills (bury trash) and incinerators (burn trash) handle discarded batteries, significant amounts of heavy metals and other toxic substances end up in the earth and in the air. This affects the air we breathe and the water we drink-possibly causing serious health problems.

Recycling centers for batteries are a little harder to locate than those for aluminum cans or paper but it is well worth your efforts in preventing pollution. Organizations such as www.biggreenbox.com will accept alkaline, NiCd, NiMh, lead, silver, mercury, and lithium batteries for recycling. Earth911.com has an online recycling center locater. All you do is enter what you want to recycle (e.g., batteries) and enter your ZIP Code or address, city, and state. After the search results are displayed, you can sort by distance from your home or business in 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile ranges.

FINAL THOUGHTS
The digital world has brought us some amazing devices-camcorders, cameras, cell phones, and more-to make our daily lives easier. Because these devices are so portable, powerful and reliable batteries are a must.

Rechargeable batteries usually cost you more up front than a comparable alkaline battery, but you’ll get a return on your investment several times over each time you charge them back up. The electrical lifespan for batteries depends on the battery itself and the draw of power from the device. Some batteries can be charged in as little as 15 minutes but last for hours and some manufacturers of rechargeable batteries claim a service life up to 3,000 charge cycles.

To view our line of alkaline batteries, click here.

To view our line of rechargeable batteries, click here.

To view our line of chargers which include rechargeable batteries, click here.

Still have questions?-feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

High definition has taken the television industry by storm and has made waves recently in the radio realm. iBiquity Digital is the developer and licenser of HD Radio, a technology that allows traditional AM/FM stations to be broadcast in high definition, creating CD-like quality FM stations and FM quality AM stations. The addition of a digital signal allows textual data such as track info, weather reports, stock quotes and sports scores to be displayed on the receiver’s digital display.

Is HD Radio for you? Answer the following questions to find out if you can benefit from radio’s latest innovation. 

1. Do/Will you listen to AM/FM radio?
2. Do you notice the difference between FM radio and CD audio quality?
3. Do you prefer receiving song titles and other information while listening?
4. Would you like more variety on the AM/FM dial?
5. Are you tired of AM/FM radio’s interference (static and fades)?

If you answered “yes” to two or more of the above questions, you’ll want to continue reading this guide to find out more about HD Radio. If not, you may want to consider alternative radio options such as Satellite Radio, Home or Car Audio.

HD RADIO FEATURES
Whether you’re excited for CD-like quality radio or want more variety from the AM/FM dial, HD Radio is your answer. Operating your HD Radio is as easy as it’s always been – tune your HD Radio to your favorite station and you’ll enjoy crystal clear audio in your car, in your home or on the go.

HD Radio not only benefits listeners, but broadcasters as well. HD Radio-enabled broadcasters are able to add additional channels adjacent to their original signal. These additional stations can supplement the primary station’s material or offer listeners a completely different variety of content. Tune your HD Radio to your favorite station, then up a notch to receive their HD2 channel, and up another for their HD3 channel. For example, Urban station WKRS 98.7 FM in New York City now offers Gospel music one notch up from their primary channel on 98.7-HD2. In Baltimore, Alternative Rock station WYYY 97.7 FM now offers Classic Rock on 97.9-HD2 and Indie Rock on 97.9-HD3.

The AM/FM dial is evolving and suddenly your classic rock, hip-hop, jazz and alternative stations can support local, regional, and global content that would never reach you via conventional local broadcast radio. Many local stations are also experimenting with new sports, politics and news formats.

BUYING OPTIONS
HD Radio is currently available for new vehicles, existing car stereos, and home audio. Car stereos are also available with built-in HD Radio receivers, or if you’d like to add HD Radio capabilities to your existing car stereo, there are HD Radio tuners and adapters. iPod® docking stations and other table-top players are also available.

A new feature emerging from HD Radio iPod® docking stations is iTunes^TM Tagging. Tag-enabled broadcasts allow you to “tag” a song, or store the song’s information (not the song itself) on the device until you dock your iPod®. The song information is then transmitted to your iPod®, conveniently appearing in iTunes^TM under a playlist labeled “Tagged” the next time you sync your iPod®.

In order to make this happen, you’ll require an HD Radio unit compatible with iTunes^TM Tagging; an iPod®; and you must be listening to an HD Radio broadcast that supports the iTunes^TM Tagging feature.

FINAL THOUGHTS
There are no subscription fees for HD Radio. To hear the digital broadcast, all you need is an HD Radio receiver. This makes HD Radio either a great supplement to Satellite Radio fans or a great upgrade for those who are avoiding any subscription fees for premium quality and new content. If television’s high definition is any indication of what we can expect from radio, it’s not a matter of if HD Radio will take over conventional AM/FM broadcasts, but when.

Still have questions? – feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

You may have never wondered how road construction affects the digital maps inside your GPS device as you count orange barrels by the hundreds while traveling less than half the speed limit. Once the asphalt trucks and steamrollers have come and gone, what’s left is a new road that will be in the next map update available for your TomTom. A map update from TomTom also includes the latest points of interest (POI), safety camera locations, and other improvements.

But how do you get those new maps and updates inside your TomTom? First, you need to find out what map version you have and compare that to the latest download available. Since 15 percent of roads change every year, don’t let your TomTom hit a dead-end. Keep it updated. Otherwise, you might take a turn for the worse.

STEP 1 – On TomTom’s homepage, www.tomtom.com, click the Support tab on the toolbar at the top of the page.

STEP 2 – An Online Help area will open under the Find your answer heading with a list of the most commonly asked questions. A search window is available if your question isn’t listed. Click the How do I check the version of my application and map?

STEP 3 – Your answer will be displayed with two different methods to find out your map’s version. Click Method 1: On the device.

STEP 4 – If your device isn’t already activated, please do so now. In the navigation view, touch the screen in the bottom right-hand corner of the status bar.

STEP 5 – You are now at a status summary screen. In the lower right-hand corner, you will see your current application version. Touch the screen on the version button to view your current map version.

STEP 6 – Your version number is 800-1727 and the map currently installed is ‘USA & Canada.

STEP 7 – Now that you know your map’s version number, you’ll need to see if you’ve already got the current version or if it’s time for an update. On TomTom’s homepage, click the Maps link on the Quick links menu located on the left-hand side of the page to take you to the Get New Maps area.

STEP 8 – Select your device model from the drop-down menu. For this example, we’ve selected TomTom’s ONE 3rd Edition.

STEP 9 – Now it is time to select the map you want to download. Only the maps available for the device you selected in the previous step will display.

STEP 10 – Press the Add to cart button to place the map in your shopping cart.

STEP 11 – If you need additional maps besides the one in you’ve just placed in your cart, click Back to the store. If you’re ready to purchase and download, click Proceed to checkout to make your purchase and then download your new map.

OTHER INFORMATION

• In order to successfully download a new map, ensure you accept the free upgrade to TomTom HOME (version 2.1 or higher) and update the software on your device when prompted.
• Maps downloaded on www.tomtom.com can only be used if you already own TomTom products.
• Due to the size of the maps available for downloading, TomTom recommends using a broadband internet connection.
• An additional SD memory card might be required depending on the size of the map you download.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Keeping your TomTom device up to date with maps will keep you on the straight and narrow. Periodically check for updates for your pre-loaded and downloaded maps, and any additional maps you may be interested in.

TomTom HOME is available for download for all GO, ONE, XL, RIDER, and NAVIGATOR 7 devices. Click here to learn more about HOME and to download it for free.

Still have questions? – feel free to speak with an hhgregg associate. We offer the best-educated associates in the business who are smart enough to make it simple. Price and Advice Guaranteed!

If you’ve been trying to decipher scrawled directions on faded pieces of paper, you need a GPS system. If you’ve gotten lost from using ‘you can’t miss it’ directions from your neighbor, you need a GPS system. If your poor sense of direction has you circling your spouse’s place of employment because you don’t know which side of the building is the south side, you need a GPS system. GPS technology has changed the way the world travels – short distances and long distances.

A common misconception about a GPS is you have to be lost to need one. Not true. You’ll be surprised to learn exactly how far it is to work from your house, how much more efficient you can be running errands on a Saturday, and how many of the street names you’ll learn in your own community. Plus, no more fighting with paper maps you picked up at the convenience store.

Answer the following questions and make it easy to decide which GPS device is right for you and your travels.

1. How often will I use my GPS?

• Once or twice a week
• Several times a day
• Occasionally to once a month

2. What will I use it for?

• During summer camping trips and vacations
• Go back and forth to work
• Places I’ve never been to there before
• All of the above and more!

3. What screen size do I need?

• 3.5-inch
• 4.3 to 4.5-inch
• Larger

4. Where will it be mounted in my car?

• On my dashboard above the car’s gauges
• Attached to the A/C vent above my CD player
• Mounted onto my windshield near the A-pillar

5. What options and features do I need?

• I need Bluetooth®-compatibility!
• Additional maps of Europe for annual business trips
• I require real-time traffic and weather alerts
• All of the above and more!

Now that you know what you want, you know where to get it … hhgregg!

What is a GPS system?
GPS stand for Global Positioning System and is a satellite-based navigation system consisting of a network of 24 orbiting satellites. Originally designed for military use only, the late president, Ronald Reagan, issued a directive guaranteeing GPS signals would be available for civilian use throughout the world. In 2004, President George W. Bush echoed President Reagan’s directive and put into place an updated policy that keeps civilian GPS usage free of direct user fees.

GPS technology is used in everything from commercial aircraft to cell phones and boats to wristwatches. Industries like mining, surveying, and package delivery companies have also found GPS technology to be an invaluable tool which has helped make their lives easier and increased their bottom line. Let’s navigate through the specifications and options available in using a GPS in your daily life.

Maps
The heart of your GPS unit is the quality and variety of the preinstalled and downloadable maps available for your particular model of GPS device. Most units come with software you install on your PC to keep your GPS device up to date and functioning properly. Periodically plug your GPS into your PC to download additional maps and check for updates.

Most basic units will have preloaded maps of the United States (lower 48 states) and Canada. Other units can also have maps of Europe, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and Alaska, and more. Ensure your unit has a map of where you want to go before you reach the edge of the earth.

Traffic & Weather
If driving in traffic is seemingly a never-ending part of your day, you’ll want a model with live traffic alert capability. This capability is usually a premium service but well worth the cost if you require it.

If you’re a traffic alert subscriber, you’ll receive real-time traffic and weather-related incident alerts and information right to your screen. With this feature, you won’t have to worry about slow-downs caused by accidents, severe weather conditions, road closures, and more. This feature will automatically prompt you to reroute your trip if there is another road available.

Points of Interest (POI)
If you find yourself needing to take a break during a long drive but you aren’t familiar with the town you’re pulling into, select one of POI (as many as six million or more) preinstalled on your GPS device. The database of POI can make it easy to find the nearest ATM, gas station, 24-hour diner, and more. Searching through the POI database can be accomplished by category or specific name nearest to your position.

Accuracy
The absolute accuracy of your location when compared to a GPS-determined position depends on the receiver you’re using. Most hand-held GPS units have 32-foot (10-meters) to 65-foot (20-meters) accuracy range. For most people, getting this close to finding your destination is easily ‘close enough’ and will never really become an issue. But, there are some units than can get you to within a 9-foot (3 meters) to 16-foot (5 meters) accuracy range of your destination’s front door.

Screen Size
For portable automotive GPS devices, the standard screen size is 4.3-inches wide. A small screen would be 3.5-inches wide while a large screen would be 4.5-inches wide or larger. Ensure the screen size on the GPS device you’re interested in purchasing is large enough for your level of eyesight but not so large it blocks your view through your windshield.

Using a 4.3-inch widescreen with 16:9 format (same as your HD television) can increase the amount of information you view on the screen at one time over a standard 3.5-inch screen. When compared to a 3.5-inch screen, a 4.3-inch widescreen is 32-pixels taller, allowing you to view more of the road ahead. It is also 160-pixels wider which provides a much broader horizontal view of where you’re going.

Sunlight glare can temporarily washout your ability to read the map on your screen causing you to miss your turn or the last onramp to the freeway for 50 miles. Ensure you GPS device is designated as ’sunlight readable’ from any angle or some other type of designation.

Storage
Safely storing your GPS device when it is not needed is important to keep the unit from being damaged and to help keep all your accessories in one place. You don’t want to scratch your screen to the point you miss out on all the vibrant colors and great resolution. Considering your GPS device is operated using a touch screen, excessive scratches could alter and/or damage the way your unit performs.

Storage cases are available in generic, one-size-fits-all size and brand/model specific sizes. Some cases are large enough, though still compact, to encase the dock/mount and the GPS unit itself. This is a great feature when using a rental car or other borrowed vehicle to ensure you don’t leave anything behind.

Battery Life
For the many times you’ll need to use your GPS device without using your car as the primary power source, the life of your battery will become very important. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery with at least a 4-hour battery life will help ensure you don’t run out of power before you reach your destination.

Although lithium-ion batteries are known for their slow loss of charge when not in use, ensure your battery is fully charged before heading out on your next adventure.

Product Support & Warranty
Especially if you don’t use your GPS device on a daily basis, ensure the unit you purchase has at least a one year parts and labor warranty.

Some GPS manufacturers will continue to provide full product support assistance, even after the warranty on your GPS unit has expired.

Mounting
For GPS devices, mounting options are unique in that you’re not stuck with leaving it the way it was mounted the very first time you used the device. It can be mounted on a dashboard in one car in the morning, the windshield in another car in the afternoon, and hand held for a walk along a trailhead at sunset; all in the same day. Here are the mounting options available:

• Removable, swivel A/C vent mount
• Pedestal bicycle mount (does not require tools for installation)
• Universal bean bag with 3.25-inch suction cup mount plate
• Dashboard swivel pedestal mount
• Windshield pedestal mount (adheres to windshield with a suction cup)

Review the applicable laws in your state in reference to mounting a GPS device to your windshield. At least one state prohibits mounting on the windshield at all and another state requires specific locations, down to the inch, where mounting is acceptable.

Voices
Yep, you’re hearing voices, lots of different ones. Your GPS device will have preloaded generic male and female voices to guide you through turn-by-turn directions. Additional voices, including celebrity voices such as Mr. T, Dennis Hopper, and Burt Reynolds are available as a premium service.

Imagine driving home and missing your exit and then hearing, “You missed the turn, fool!” If you’d rather have you wife’s voice guide as a backseat driver to work and back, there are online tools available to record her voice saying the 59 required phrases.

You can talk back to your GPS. No, we don’t mean yelling at it. Some models feature activating your Bluetooth® capabilities or audibly entering your destination addresses. Both examples will allow you to maintain hands-free use of your GPS and keep your eyes on the road where they belong.

Thickness = Thin is In
Finding a GPS device which is as thin as possible might suit your needs if available space is a concern for carrying the unit in your pocket while walking or in a backpack while hiking.

Look for a ‘pocket-sized’ designation or something similar. There are 4.3-inch screen GPS devices available which are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket.

Bluetooth® Compatibility
Some models are Bluetooth® wireless technology compatible allowing you to audibly voice a command using a built-in microphone to enjoy hands-free control of your Bluetooth®-enabled phone.

Bluetooth® is a separate service that requires activation from the wireless company of your choice.

Spelling
Some models have an auto-complete spelling feature which can help immensely if you’re not sure how to spell a street name or city. This feature can also speed up your address data entry because every letter you type narrows the list of available selections remaining so that you don’t have to type the entire name.

For those of you who are poor spellers, it will even correct your spelling without making you stay after school.

MISCELLANEOUS TRAVEL TOOLS
Just when you thought your GPS device couldn’t amaze you anymore than it already does, along comes added travel tools to make your traveling life easier. Here are a few of them:

• Currency Converter
• World Travel Clock
• Automatic Time Zone Transition
• Unit Converter (feet to meters, etc.)
• Basic Calculator
• JPEG Picture Viewer
• Animated vehicles that show your location on the map (premium service)

FINAL THOUGHTS
Using a GPS unit can literally save your life, save you time and money, all the while guiding you to your destination. It is amazing how satellites which are orbiting some 12,000 miles away can safely guide you and your family from home to destination and back home again. Once you use a GPS device, you’ll wonder how you ever worked and played without one.

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