How to Process and Track Credit Card Transactions Online using a Virtual Terminal

Virtual terminal is a web-based application that enables credit card orders to be authorized by any operator with access to the Internet. It is designed for use by any business that accepts orders. The virtual terminal lets businesses process credit card transactions while the customer is "on the line". This provides instant feedback regarding the status of a customer's credit card, and that dramatically improves customer service.

The virtual credit card terminals are some of the safest, browser-based interface that allows you to authorize, process, and manage all your credit card transactions, using any computer with an Internet connection. You do not need any physical credit card terminal.

As they reduce the complexity and expenses, the virtual credit card terminals are suitable for businesses of all sizes. They are commonly used in utility companies, mail order businesses, call center operations, newspapers and magazines, insurance companies, charities, most home based and small business internet service companies. With virtual credit card terminals, you can manually enter all credit card transactions for mail or phone order sales, refund money to a customer's credit card, automatically bill customers for recurring charges, check the status of transactions, run a variety of reports, and capture previously authorized transaction from any internet connected computer anywhere.

Virtual terminals are software-based credit card terminals enabling you to quickly capture and authorize all credit card transactions in real time. When the process is complete, the merchant receives an authorization number and the server stores all the transaction details. Transactions are generally automatically settled at the end of the day and the reports are generated within two to three business days.

Compared with POS terminals, virtual credit card terminals are very fast and accurate. The other feature of the virtual credit card terminals include address verification service, customer and merchant email notifications, recurring payments, and detailed reporting capabilities. Automatic item sub-total calculation, credit card swipe card option, automatic tax calculation, automatic shipping calculation, item discount calculator, billing and shipping data fields, and coupon or rebate calculator are all added features of virtual credit card terminals. Virtual terminal credit card processing rates are lower for card-not-present or non-swipe card business transactions as opposed to retail swipe terminals.

Unlike other software packages, the virtual credit card terminals do not need any licensing fees, upgrade fees, maintenance or programming. The cost is always associated with the authorizing and processing of the credit card transactions.

Nowadays, almost all the establishments accept credit card payments and this is because many consumers make their purchases using their credit cards, and establishments who do not accept credit card payments, risk losing potential sales.

Given this situation, it is then essential for any company that intends to sell products in the market to make sure that their stores can accept credit payments. There is indeed good news, though! Today, accepting credit cards is usually a fairly easy process because companies can gain access to the tools that they need to be able to process all credit card payments from a number of sources.

About the Author:

Founded in 1988, FDIS is an established leader in the transaction processing industry. FDIS has one of the highest merchant approval rates in the industry. Whether opening a new business or expanding an established one, we provide flexible and reliable products and services that enable merchants across the United States to accept nearly all types of electronic payments.

Hot! Getting Rich with the Secret Science of Getting Rich Affiliate Program

The Secret Science of Getting Rich Seminar is a comprehensive training program based on the original classic "the Science of Getting Rich" written by Wallace D. Wattles in 1910. What is the Science of Getting Rich about? Well in the words of Wallace D. Wattles, "The ownership of money and property comes as a result of doing things in a certain way. Those who do things in this certain way, whether on purpose or accidentally, get rich. Those who do not do things in this certain way, no matter how hard they work or how able they are, remain poor. It is a natural law that like causes always produce like effects. Therefore, any man or woman who learns to do things in this certain way will infallibly get rich." The Secret Science of Getting Rich Seminar is all about teaching how to do things in this "certain" way to create wealth.

The Secret SGR Seminar includes the original text from Wallace D. Wattles classic "the Science of Getting Rich" and substantial additions of concepts presented by 3 of the leader teachers and new-throught leaders of our time - namely Bob Proctor, Jack Canfield and Michael Beckwith. The additions and enhancements to the program allows the original wisdom of the Science of Getting Rich to be more easily adopted by modern readers and is delivered in ways not possible before.

An integral part of the Secret SGR Program is a generous 2-tier affiliate program which acts a vehicle for creating wealth from sharing the training program. Every person who acquires the Secret SGR Program will automatically become an affiliate and be entitled to a comprehensive online marketing system to maximize the benefits of the affiliate program.

Contents

The Secret SGR Seminar package comprises of The Secret Science of Getting Rich Seminar manuscript with line-by-line explanation by Bob Proctor himself which means that anyone can master and internalize the wisdom of the ORGINAL text without exception. A digital MP3 player pre-loaded with 15-hours of content which means you will be totally immersed in the program immediately and constantly to ensure you effect the Law of Attraction to bring you wealth everyday! Immerse yourself anytime and anywhere! Listen anytime while in a bus, on a train, waiting in line, during lunch breaks, by the pool. A full set of CDs to play in the car which means you will get easy and immediate access to all your materials no matter where you are! A $500 Seminar Voucher to attend the live seminars worldwide to continue learning in a live seminar environment! All this content comes packaged in a leather briefcase specially designed for the program.

Finally, a very generous 2-tier affiliate system - an actual vehicle for you to build your wealth by sharing the program with others.

Pricing The Secret SGR Program is priced at $1,995. Although the a program is not cheap, it certainly represents great value over $10,000 with proven and tested online offline marketing system!

Affiliate Program To participate, you first need to purchase the Secret SGR Seminar online. Once you purchase the seminar program, you will automatically be registered as an affiliate. As an affiliate, for each referral you make, you will be paid $500! Yes, you heard right... $500! Now the most amazing part is that it is a two-tier system. When your affiliate make referrals, you will also earn an ADDITIONAL $250 for each referral!

No matter how you look at the financial numbers, it is very clear that this program is an excellent vehicle for creating substantial financial returns for each affiliate who invests in the program. The question is, how will you take advantage of this program to create the level of returns you want?

http://iamlivingthesecret.blogspot.com Click here to learn more about the Secret Science of Getting Rich Seminar and how you can profit from the distribution of the program.

About the Author:

My dream continues to be changing lives, to leave a lasting impression and to share anyone how to create income from home, regardless of the product or service they wish to market as long as it delivers true value and benefit to the end consumer.

Q. "How Do I Avoid Getting Tracked While I am Online?"

If you are in a position where your computer's address needs to be concealed from external eyes, then the Tor-Privoxy solution is a service that you may want to participate in.



A. There are multiple choices for hiding your online identity.



Choices for P2P File Sharing: if your objective is to download/upload files anonymously, then there are services that will mask your computer's Internet Protocol (IP) address for a small fee, while still allowing you to use large bandwidth. The cost is usually a monthly fee or the purchase of a special software product.



These P2P-friendly services include Anonymizer.com , The Cloak , and A4Proxy . There is even a special non-profit project dedicated to P2P downloading anonymity: Mute Anonymity .



A More Serious Option - for Internet users needing legitimate anonymity for legitimate privacy purposes: a special two-part freeware privacy solution is available. zSB(3,3) This two-part platform was specifically designed by the EFF to protect the democratic freedoms of private citizens. When combined, these two items "scramble" and conceal your online identity as a free public service:



" Tor " and " Privoxy " is a combination "anonymizer" platform you install on your own machine. Tor is a special network of web servers run by the EFF and many volunteer server administrators. Privoxy is the software you need to connect to this Tor network.



The Tor Network and the Privoxy software work together to hide your computer's IP address. They accomplish this by bouncing your signal around several Internet servers called Tor "onion routers" . Much in the same way Hollywood spy movies depict a telephone call being routed around dozens of false phone locations, so is your online identity when masked by these special Tor servers. Your true IP address is effectively hidden from when you surf/email/download through the Tor onion network.



The Privoxy and Tor products are still imperfect, and they do not guarantee your anonymity. But as a start, Tor and Privoxy do reduce your exposure to surveillance, and make you 80% or more difficult to track.



Download and Configure Tor-Privoxy here .



Download Privoxy here .





If you are looking to add a layer of anonymity to your surfing/ emailing life, then try Tor-Privoxy. You will likely experience a somewhat-slower connection but your identity will be significantly more protected.



Remember: no masking of your address is 100% foolproof. And if you download/upload P2P files, remember that in any other country outside of Canada, downloading copyrighted movies and songs puts you at legal risk for copyright infringement prosecution.



P2P Downloaders, please note: the Tor Network was designed to protect private citizens personal privacy, especially in the important areas of Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Conscience, and Freedom of Democracy. Tor and Prixovy were not designed to help people download megabytes of movies and songs. Please do not abuse the Tor-Privoxy system by turning it into a P2P downloading avenue.



Furthermore, while the About Network actively promotes freedom of expression and the democratic use of the Internet, the About Network does not condone the illegal downloading of copyrighted files. If you are going to participate in P2P file sharing, please take the time to educate yourself about the legalities and consequences of such activity.



Warning to corporate/government users: if you hope to hide your unethical surfing habits from your own I.T. department, think again. The Tor Onion Network and Privoxy platform do NOT conceal you from internal surveillance at your office.



Next: How to Install and Configure Tor-Privoxy

About the Author:

Paul Gil

Iranians Crack Windows Vista

Vista's been out and it's all the buzz.

Some critics are claiming it just doesn't pack enough must-have applications to make it worth the costly upgrade, while others find the vastly improved Aero graphics and security to be a necessity for any home or office.

Regardless, most people would probably take Vista if it were just a bit cheaper. How's $8 sound? That's the price set by Iranian hackers, who have reportedly cracked Microsoft's new operating system.

Word of the crack comes from Iranian watchdog Taliya News, who believe the illegal act was performed so people of that country could actually afford the new OS. There's even a weird twist on the situation, making it seem somehow legal, with an Iranian software company doling out private serial numbers.

As mentioned, many Iranians are getting their hands on Vista for $8, or 80,000 Rials.

The strangest part of the story may be the different levels working together to make the crack somehow legitimate. Of course, it isn't that surprising that an Iranian crack of a major American corporation is deemed legal in the Mid-East. With excited exclamation points making the story seem like a great success, the Taliya News report is truly something out of the ordinary. (Source: taliyanews.com )

Microsoft has yet to comment on the Vista crack, and Taliya ensures all interested Iranians that those serial codes will pass through MS' online registration without detection. (Source: theinquirer.net )

Although we don't soon expect $8 ripped copies of Vista to hit North American shelves, Infopackets will soon be bringing you an in-depth look into the new operating system via its own eBook. Stay tuned.

--

About the Author:

John Emerson

Vista Hype: Fact or Fiction?

Being fair minded while discussing Microsoft is difficult for me considering all the illegal activities their management has engaged in, and have been convicted for, in both U.S. and International Courts over the years. But, I do try hard to be as open-minded as I possibly can when talking about their software.

With that in mind, I wanted to talk to you about Vista and all the hype that has been blowing around in the wind. It is confusing, conflicting, and in some cases, just too hard to believe!

Let me begin.

On one hand, you hear Microsoft touting the virtues of Vista as the Best OS since sliced bread! The jury is still out on that, of course, but there is strong evidence that it is not -- at least, under the hood. Yes, it does have a pleasing look to it with the Aero Desktop, but XP can be made to look the same way! Linux distributions have, for years, had several different desktops that could, with a little configuring, look as good (if not better) than Vistas best, and with more useful features, too.

Performance is another area that Microsoft has been pushing. "Vista is faster!" as the advertisements say. When you examine the criteria used, however, you start seeing a few things that seem to skew the results a bit.

For example: in a trial between XP and Vista, the Vista machine was optimized for doing whatever the test is trying to prove (downloading, file access, etc.) while the XP system was not. And even then, the timings that I have seen are in the range of less than a few milliseconds. That's certainly not enough to make a real difference, but enough for the claim. If the test was completely fair, I'm sure the XP system would show to be the quicker.

Other things, however, aren't so easily compared.

One of those, is DRM, or "Digital Rights Management," which offers no advantage to users at all. DRM controls what you can and can't watch or hear on your PC. If you have a favorite movie you watch from time to time, you may not be able to watch it much longer.

DRM is designed, and implemented, strictly for the benefit of Microsoft and the Recording and Movie Industry. Forget about using downloaded music or movies via peer-to-peer methods: it can't be shared. Not that I totally support P2P, but I still consider DRM an encroachment on my right of ownership. If I bought my copy of whatever from a legit dealer or retailer, I expect to be able to play it wherever I wish. But, now I will need to pay a licensing fee to use my computer to play it. Who gets paid? I'm guessing Microsoft, who then shares the fee with the product producers.

If you listen to the market speak from Microsoft, Vista is sweeping the world and selling like crazy, but if you pay attention to what is being said to stock analysts by Microsoft, the words are: "not as strong as predicted," and "softer market than expected" (according to a March 12th issue of InformationWeek magazine).

With Government agencies stepping back both in the U.S. and abroad and with large businesses saying 2008 before implementation, Microsoft has a serious problem on its hands. Oh, they are still on their marketing soap box pushing Vista, but there is another refrain being stated more quietly that the consumer won't hear unless they are paying attention to the man behind the curtain and not the bad magician waving his hands.

Like the Carney Barker says, "It ain't over until the Fat Lady Sings!"

Stick around for the show!

--

About the Author:

Douglas Godbey

Finding The Top Music Download Sites

Music download sites are more popular than ever. What used to be an illegal act has made its way to the legal side. Music download sites are easy to access and most are quite easy to use. With today's advanced technology, downloading music has never been easier. Many of the music download sites have nearly a million songs to choose from.

Downloading music from a music download site is a great alternative to purchasing an entire music CD. Music downloads allow consumers to pick songs they enjoy and like, and only those songs. People are no longer left with an entire CD that they only like one song on. Music download sites also save users driving time. Instead of searching store after store for a particular song or CD, you can simply download it in the convenience of your home.

With all of the music download sites available today, it is important to have an understanding which sites work best and which ones you can really trust. Some music download sites charge a set price for each download, while others charge a monthly subscription fee, along with a per music download charge. When sites charge a subscription fee, along with a per download fee, downloads are usually considerably cheaper. Other Music download sites simply charge a monthly fee for unlimited downloads.

One way music download sites entice customers to spend more at their site, is by offering progressive pricing. With progressive pricing, the more downloads you purchase, the cheaper they become.

Most music download sites allow you to search their library by genre, artist or song title. Once you have found the song you are looking for, you can generally listen to a small sample of the song before purchasing a download. This helps to ensure that you are buying the right version of the song you are searching for.

After you have downloaded the music from an music download site, you can listen to the songs on your computer, burn a music CD or put the songs on an MP3 player or iPod. Sometimes, download customers choose to do all of the above.

So, no matter what your reason for using a music download site, with the wide variety of sites available today, you are sure to find one that meets your needs. With a click of your mouse, you can have virtually any song quickly downloaded to your home computer.

About the Author:

If you thought this information was useful, and would like to review some of the top music download sites. Visit http://www.topdownloadz.net

The Chow Chow - Intelligent and Independent

The Chow Chow is one of the varieties of dogs that come from China. Other China dogs include the Shar-Pei and the Pekingese. Each is very different and very unique.

Chows range in weight from 45 to 75 pounds and are about 17-21 inches at the shoulders. They have the strength and will to be an excellent protector of family and home.

They are one-person or one-family dogs and need to be socialized at an early age to understand that you are the boss. Since Chows are hunters, unless they grow up with a cat they might view cats as game. Other than that, they usually get along with other family pets.

Chow Chows are very easy to housebreak, are very rarely destructive of household furnishings, and are not diggers or barkers. When they do bark, it is wise to investigate. They are by nature guarddogs, are very alert watchdogs, and suspicious with all strangers.

They do not do well with young children but do quite well with older and considerate children. If cornered or in a strange situation they will bite, which often happens at animal shelters. The shelter personnel often don't understand this reaction and euthanize the dog.

Even though they are devoted to their family, Chow Chows are highly independent and will often retire to a corner of the house that is out of the way. They are not for people who want an overly affectionate lapdog. Anyone who desires a dog that needs to be with the owner at all times should not get a Chow.

Chows do need to be with their family for socialization. These dogs, like most, should not be locked outside alone. Dogs are companion animals and need interaction with people.

Chows shed heavily once a year and require frequent, thorough brushing. There are actually two different type of Chow, the rough coat and the smooth. The rough coat Chow has longer fur and needs brushing every other day year-round, and every day during the time of heavy shedding. The smooth Chow needs to be brushed once a week.

They do not require a lot of exercise and do very well in apartments. They are quiet, clean, and can be reserved.

Since they have a heavy coat and they do not do well in hot climates but do very well in cold. Some Chows have extra skin in the back of their throats that causes them to become stressed from heat, exercise and excitement.

If they become stressed, this extra skin in their throat can put a strain on their heart so it is very important to provide these dogs with air conditioning during hot weather, and not exercise the dog in the heat of the day.

The Chow Chow, rather than specializing in one thing, is good at a variety of jobs. These include hunting, herding, pulling and protecting.

Overall they are a wonderful dog for families with older children, and for people who do not want or need a dog that is always at their side. They are a devoted dog breed with the strength to be good protectors of their family and home. Perhaps this is the dog for you.

About the Author:

Discover tons of information about dogs, dog training, dog breeds, and dog care at http://www.christysdogportal.com , brought to you by two dog enthusiasts. Carol Stack has been working with dogs for more than three decades. Carol and her daughter Christy have created this Web site especially for dog lovers.

Transferring your website without any downtime

Through the development of a web site webmasters may find that their web hosting needs may have changed from the initial time they setup their site. Either through development of more involved sites that require more intensive programming or language support or just simply a site that has grown to large and busy for the current setup. In some cases, a webmaster may find themselves stuck with a web host that they have encountered numerous problems with, whether that be support issues, or billing issues. In summary, some sites need a change in web hosting companies.



Sounds like a simple thing, purchase your hosting, move your files and update your DNS setting with the domain registrar. Stop, if that's what you think, because if you are not careful some of your loyal repeat customers may be surprised to see that your site is not working anymore, which can happen if you don't handle a transfer correctly. As your visitors and customers are what makes your site thrive, you want to make sure you follow a few steps.



1. Find a New Host.



Purchase your hosting with your newly chosen web host. By utilizing web hosting coupons you can not only save money on the cost of the new host but some hosting companies will pay you to transfer from your old host or will credit you the amount of time you still had with your old host.



Lunarpages is well known for their hosting and will add the amount of time you had remaining with your old host to your Lunarpages account for free up to 6 months.



HostICan will pay you up to $40 to transfer from your old host. Both companies offer a coupon to encourage you to make the switch and both companies are suited for webmaster moving their sites with the credits they offer to transfer.



Lunarpages offers $26.00 off plus 1 Free month plus any transfer credit with the Lunar pages coupon code : WHC26OFF .



HostICan offers $30.00 off plus up to $40.00 of transfer credit with the Hostican coupon code: GREATNESS-12 .



2. Download Your Files.



Using your FTP file transfer program or whatever method you use, download all your site's files and folders to your computer. Transfer the entire site as you want to keep the directory structure intact.



3. Upload Your Files.



Using the information you received in your welcome email from your new host, upload your files to the new site. Since the site's Domain Name System (DNS) information has not been changed yet, you will have to use the IP address to connect to the site. Your email should have this alternate IP address to connect with, otherwise contact your web host for this address.



4. Setup your Email Accounts.



Now setup all your sites email accounts with your new host. These accounts won't work but you want to have them ready to accept emails the moment your site moves so a user's email to you won't bounce.



To make sure you don't miss any emails when you make changes to your Domain Name Server information, it is suggested you create two email accounts in your email program (ie. Outlook, etc), one for the new site address and one for the old address. Use the IP address for each host and you will ensure to get any email sent from a user who is still getting your old host and from users who are being directed to your new host. If you don't get that much email or aren't worried about missing a few emails, then you can disregard setting up the emails for the old host.



5. Update your Domain Name System information



Using the company that you used to register your domain, login and change the DNS settings to the name servers your new host listed in your welcome email. After you make these changes it can take anywhere from 24-48 hours for the change to propagate through the internet. Until these is complete some users will get your site on your new host's servers and some will still get your site from your old host. After 48 hours it should be safe for you to cancel your old account as all users will now be accessing your new host.



6. Your site has been transferred flawlessly and most likely unnoticed by your users.



If you follow these steps your users will never notice that your site has been moved and you will keep your users happy. It may still be a good idea to post a notice on your site that you are planning a host change and give users a date range that this will occur so in the event your transfer doesn't go smoothly, your users will be aware and will be more understanding of any downtime and more likely to return.

About the Author:

Aiden O'Neill is a freelance writer and editor for various web sites within the webmaster community.

Steps To Optimizing Your Website For Google And Yahoo

The mere thought of SEO is enough to send most webmasters into a flutter. A good ranking in the search engines is a sure-fire way to make money from a website, yet it is not an easy task. But while the exact ranking algorithm used by top search engines is one of the world's best kept secrets there are some basic principals you should always keep in mind:

1. Site Design

The structure of your site is important because this is how search engines see how each page relates to another. When your site is spidered, the search engine will quickly be able to judge the relevance and quality of your site from the sitemap.

Creating a good site map involves naming pages using your top keywords, while at the same time ensuring you are giving it an accurate and succinct name. Keyword spamming has penalties! Google's sitemap is a good example at http://www.google.com/sitemap.html .

2. Optimize for your audience, not for the search engine.

Search engines prefer sites on a specific subject because specialized information is more beneficial to search engine users. So, for example, your site would have a better chance of ranking highly if it was dedicated specifically to lamp shades rather than home furnishings or lighting in general. This is because someone searching for 'lamp shade' would be better satisfied with a website full of information specifically relating to lamp shades, rather than a general home furnishings site with only a paragraph or two dedicated to lamp shades.

Many sites have been successful by focusing solely on providing a website that meets the needs of their audience, rather than the needs of the search engines. If possible, survey your users to find out what they want out of the site and if they have any suggestions. The more you know about your audience, the better the design you'll be able to create. Make it easy for visitors to interact on the site and for you to answer their questions too.

3. Label your internal text links and image alt tags

Why? The main reason is that search engine spiders can't read images. Anything without text means nothing to the spider. Other benefits of labeling images include the ability for the image to be searchable in browsers such as Google Image search. Image text also enables visibly impaired visitors to use your site more effectively and it helps to generally improve the text content of your page for search purposes. An image label is just a clear description of the image using keywords. Just don't include too many keywords in the alt text as there are penalties for keyword stuffing!

4. Update your site regularly

Your site ranking will be enhanced if the search engine spiders can see it is being updated frequently. Aim to add new content at least once a week to create a living site. The more frequently Google has to come back to respider your site, the better you will rank. Pages that don't change will eventually be downgraded in favor of sites whose pages are fresher.

5. Link to Subject-related sites

Good quality backlinks are vital to SEO as these tell the search engine spiders that the site is popular and/or important. Backlinks are links that are directed to your website from another site. Thus, linking to relevant sites is a great way to increase your search engine ranking. If you can, try to implement circular linking, where the sites you link to also link to each other and back to you again. For example, you link to Site A and Site B, who both link back to you and also link to each other. The more clusters of links you can get like this, the more relevant your site will be deemed to be.

Did you realize that broken links can actually harm your search engine optimization? If you set up a link, and your linking partner pulls that link in 6 months time, your ranking could reduce. Thus it is critical to check your links regularly to ensure that you are being linked back to.

Search engine optimization is not something that can be done once and then left alone. It requires constant effort and attention. The best way to keep up to date with new SEO developments is to continue read commentary and recent articles by SEO experts. In general, remember that the top websites are always the ones people want to use, such as the BBC, eBay, Apple, and NASA. If your main priority is creating the best website for your users, then you are on the right track.

About the Author:

Justin Maddox is development manager for Traffic Travis, a highly regarded SEO software tool designed to help online businesses boost their website traffic. Visit Traffic Travis for more information.

How to Measure Windows for Blinds

Window blinds can really make the difference between a bland room and a room that makes people say wow. Measuring for those blinds can make the difference between a well dressed window and an eyesore. Here we will detail the steps to correctly measure a window for custom made blinds and shades.

The first step in measuring a window is to use the risght tool. You will need a steel tape measure. Cloth tape measures can bow and sag and should not be used. You will be measuring with a steel tape to the nearest 1/8". You should measure each window individually and record the measurement as width x height. This is the standard way of communicating measurements in the industry. You will need to decide first if you want inside mount blinds or outside mount blinds.

MEASURING FOR INSIDE MOUNT BLINDS AND SHADES

Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window casing. They may need a certain depth in order to sit flush with the casing. Make sure the blinds that you pick out will fit inside your casings.

To measure for inside mount blinds you are going to use the steel tape to measure from left to right in three places on the window. Measure from inside edge of casing to inside edge of casing. Record the smallest measurement to the nearest 1/8". Do the same for the height of the window measuring from top to bottom. MEASURING FOR OUTSIDE MOUNT BLINDS

Outside mount blinds are installed outside the window casing. They cover the window completely and are used to make it look larger or hide an unsightly window. Again, you are going to measure the window with a steel tape.

First measure the width of the window from outside edge of casing to outside edge of casing. Add 3" onto this measurement for an overlap of 1.5" on either side. Next, measure the exact height to be covered, normally from the top edge of the window casing to the bottom edge or the sill.

MEASURING FOR ARCHED WINDOWS

Arched windows are tricky to measure. This is because they are nearly never perfect arches. If they are the measurement is easy. You simply record the width of the window base and the half that as the height. If they are not perfect semicircles then it is best to make a paper template to send to the blinds company.

CONCLUSION

In order to achieve a good impression in your home you must have professional looking window treatments. Professionalism is a byproduct of taking your time and measuring right in order to custom fit blinds and shades to your home. With these tips in hand you should be able to confidently measure your blinds and get your order processed quickly and correctly.

About the Author:

Clint Miller is an avid do-it-yourselfer who together with his wife has completed dozens of home improvement projects in the process of revitalizing their first home. He has written several published articles and regularly updates his website to include DIY tips and tricks along with articles, home improvement news and project updates. It can be found at http://diyda.blogspot.com .

SCAM ALERT: Kevin Trudeau's "Weight

Quick Review: Kevin Trudeau's "Weight Loss Cure"

Have you seen this latest infomercial by Kevin Trudeau?

If you have and are contemplating whether or not to buy his new book "The Weight Loss Cure", I strongly suggest that you read this short review first.

In his infomercial, Trudeau leads us to believe that this weight loss "protocol", as it's referred to, has nothing to do with dieting, working out, and that there is an all natural and easily affordable substance used. During the infomercial, he tells a story about using this "protocol" on a friend. In Trudeau's story he totally eliminates his friend's tremendous craving for ice cream in a matter of seconds. Trudeau implies that this is a simple, quick, effective, and ever lasting - end all "cure" for obesity.

Now for the truth. If you were hoping his "cure" was as easy and simplistic as he describes, well I'm sorry to report that it is anything but. Basically, the "cure" has 4 phases, I'll just go breifly over the first phase as they are all very similar.

The first phase is "suggested" to last as long as 30 days. The first thing I noticed is that Trudeau makes many "suggestions." He never really provides you with straight forward answers. I mean, as someone interested in losing some weight, I just want to know if I need to do something or not? Anyway, during this phase you are required to seek the assistance of a doctor to oversee your weight loss. You are also "suggested" to have 15 colon cleansings during this 30 day period of phase one. Yep, that's a colon cleansing every other day (as well as continued colon cleansings periodically throughout the other phases).

When I decided to write this article, I did some online research and found the average colon cleansing costs about $70.00. That's roughly $1,050.00 worth of colon cleansings in your first month alone (tips not included).

It is also "suggested" that you walk for an hour everyday and partake in some sort of physical activity that requires you to do full body movement. I guess Trudeau thinks we're all morons and will never figure out that he means we need to work out even though he says this "cure" doesn't require us to. You are also required to consume two to three varieties of herbal tea as well as an endless list of "suggested" foods. You are also simultaneously provided with an even longer list of forbidden foods. However, according to Trudeau this is not a diet. This guy's an absolute idiot.

The "all natural substance" he mentions in his informercial is a chemical found in the urine of pregnant women (gross). It is extracted, purified, and then taken by injection. Trudeau forgets to mention in his informercial that the US government considers this "all natural substance" a DRUG. You need a prescription to get it. You need a doctor to write the prescription. And here's the best part, a doctor WILL NOT prescribe this drug for purpose of weight loss as it has been determined by the US government to have no weight loss benefit what-so-ever.

Now by the way, Trudeau states that you NEED this urine extract as it is a key ingredient for his "cure." Trudeau's solution to the whole doctor prescription delema - simply educate your doctor. That's right, you teach your doctor. Trudeau proposes that you provide your doctor with some recommended reading materials that proves the drug promotes weight loss. If this doesn't work, Trudeau recommends going to doctor after doctor until you find one that's dumb enough to write you a prescription for his all natural - drug.

Trudeau also "suggests" that you refrain from using certain types of make-up and all skin lotions. You should not watch fast food commercials as they contain subliminal messages that make you hungry. You should buy "suggested" CD's and listen to them repeatedly to de-program yourself from the effects of subliminal messages you have already been subjected to. The rediculous list goes on and on and on.

The worst part is, I am not joking or exaggerating in way. All this information is in his book. I truly believe that Trudeau has lost his mind and needs some professional help. Needless to say, I was pretty disappointed and I wanted to prevent others from being suckered. The sad thing is, Trudeau will still make a small fortune ripping off those who are struggling to loss weight.

I hope I didn't offend any Trudeau lovers out there. I am just voicing my opinion and trying to save people some money.

Thanks for reading, Dane Weston

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Mind Tricks - Six Easy Ones

Many mind tricks are more than just tricks. They are creative techniques for tapping into the power of your mind. They entertain, but they also have more practical uses. A good example is the "pupil trick."

Look in the mirror and watch your eyes as you vividly imagine something pleasurable. It can be a beautiful scene, your favorite naked body, or anything else that will create desire in you. You'll notice your pupils getting larger almost immediately. If you practice a bit, you can make your pupils instantly larger at will.

Pupils enlarge when you are aroused, interested and receptive. When you are with someone and your pupils dilate, the person you are talking to subconsciously senses your interest in them or what they are saying, and they like that. This makes it easier for them to like you, and to listen to what you suggest. You don't have to be a salesman to take advantage of this. Once you learn to control your pupil size, why not try this subliminal mind trick?

A Mental Math Trick

As a young boy in school, I didn't "show my work" in math class. In my figuring, 97 x 16 became 100 x 16 (1600) minus 3 x 16 (48). It was easier that way, and almost automatic, so I would just write down 1552 even though I couldn't explain very well how I arrived at the answer. For my teachers this was a problem, but many years later such math shortcuts were sold in seminars and books. You might want to learn a few of your own.

A Memory Trick

Suppose you need to remember the following list: Soap, milk, honey, fork, and flowers. Just start a vivid story in your imagination, adding items to it as you go: At the sink, reach for the SOAP, and find the soap dish full of MILK. Wash your hands with that, and then comb HONEY into your hair with a FORK. Finally, pick up a bouquet of FLOWERS and smile at the mirror. Repeat each item while mentally reviewing your "movie," and you'll remember all five things, even the next day.

Mind Tricks For Motivation

To get yourself motivated, talk about your plans. This is a simple, yet powerful mind trick. By the time I tell my wife about the newsletter I'm going to write, I'm out of my slump and back at the keyboard. You can quickly change your state of mind, but not by willing it to change. That would be like trying to ride a bicycle without pedaling. There is a mechanical aspect to the mind that can't be ignored. That is what these techniques tap into.

To help a friend out of a bad mood, get them to talk. More specifically, get your friend to explain something to you that they are passionate about. The process literally will change the chemicals in their brain, and so change their state of mind. When you find the topics that work best, remember them for future use.

A Reading Trick

I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid. Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer inwaht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Amzanig huh? yaeh and I awlyas thought slpeling was ipmorantt.

A subscriber to my Brainpower Newsletter sent me that one. A more useful speed-reading "trick," is to read just the first and last sentences of paragraphs. That's where the most useful information usually is, as in the last sentence of this paragraph: Mind power comes from practice, not desire, so why not try these mind tricks?

Steve Gillman has been studying brainpower and related topics for years. For more on How To Increase Brain Power , and to get the Brain Power Newsletter and other free gifts, visit: http://www.IncreaseBrainPower.com .

Increase Your IQ Right Now

You can increase your IQ (intelligence quotient) in the next ten minutes. On my website www.IncreaseBrainPower.com, there are many brain power exercises and techniques designed to help you long-term, but what if you need a quick brain fix right now? What if there is an important meeting coming up, or a crucial test, or just a chess game you don't want to lose? Can you really boost your IQ quickly? If what you want is results, and not an argument about the definition of intelligence, the answer is absolutely yes.Try some of the following.

Breath To Increase IQ

Breath deep. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve the functioning of your brain immediately. By breathing deeply we relax and put more oxygen in the blood (therefore in the brain), both of which help. Relaxation has been proven to improve brain function. Low oxygen levels in the blood have been shown to decrease it. Since most of us are in the habit of breathing too shallowly, this is a quick way to increase IQ. By the way, if you breath through your nose, you are more likely to breath deeply.

Meditating also helps, primarily because of the deep breating aspect. The state of mind achieved through a simple breath-watching meditation allows true relaxation, and is conducive to creative problem solving. Just close your eyes and breath through your nose, deeply at first, then in whatever way is comfortable. As thoughts arise, dismiss them and return your attention to your breath. Do this for at least a few minutes.

Move Your Body To Increase IQ

Sit up straight, and close your mouth. Good posture affects our state of mind, and helps us to think more clearly. Try an experiment to prove this to yourself. Do math problems in your head; first while slouching, with your mouth open; then while sitting up straight with your lips together. You'll get the point.

Exercise a little. Physical activity-just enough to get the blood pumping-can "wake up" your brain enough to help you think better. Walking seems to work best, but any aerobic activity can help increase your IQ.

Sleep well. You knew this one, right? Just remember, the evidence shows us that the quality of sleep is very important, not just the quantity.

What You Eat Can Increase Or Decrease your IQ

Consume ginkgo biloba. Whether in capsules or tea or off a neighbors tree, ginkgo leaves have been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, helping memory and concentration. The effect is quick, and doesn't seem to diminish with regular use.

Drink coffee. Everything from test scores on college exams to chess games have been shown to improve after a cup of coffee or other drink containing caffeine. It is a temporary effect, however, and caffeine may have adverse long-term effects for regular users.

Avoid Sugar. Actually any simple carbohydrates taken in large quantities can give you that sluggish feeling that makes it difficult to think. This is due to the insulin that is dumped into your veins after the sugar is. Don't eat white flour, sugar, potatoes, and other carbs before an important meeting.

Results - Not Definitions

Let the "experts" argue about whether you can increase IQ or not, in any absolute sense. We know the tests measure your IQ at a moment in time, and you know that there are times when you would score higher or lower. What you want is a real improvement in brain function. If you slept well, exercised, drank coffee and ginkgo tea, then sat up straight and breathed deeply as you took the test, don't you think you would score a few points higher on an intelligence quotient test? More importantly, wouldn't you be better prepared for whatever mental tasks you faced?

Steve Gillman has been studying brain improvement, creative problem solving and related topics for years. Some of what he has discovered can be found on his website: http://www.IncreaseBrainPower.com

Hackers and Remote Access to Your PC; is It Possible?

Some hackers claim that they can remotely access your PC, turn it on and then steal all your data while you sleep? Is that true? Well you might be surprised at that answer, are you scared yet? Of course your computer would have to be plugged in our your laptop fully charged and then they would need a way to access your computer thru a WiFi system. Can this be done?

Yes, well theoretically you could send energy via a directional wave device, perhaps by satellite or other local device. It would be easy to do with 3G, 3G+, 4G or 5G cell phone and so you could do it with a computer too (yes through walls). Simply use a pulse the device to turn it on. Yes that is theoretically this "IS" possible.

You could then continue to access all the data on the computer using directional WiFi, which at this year's Las Vegas hacker's convention they would not allow them to display these techniques due to laws against such things. You could then remotely surf thru the "targets" laptop.

Yes all this is theoretically possible, easy to figure out and therefore "Occam's Razor" would tell me that such technology is available and in use and probably in the military. I know for a fact that cell phones can be turned on via the cell-system sending out energy.

There are other technologies that spies use such as screen readers. But why bother, if you can WiFi hack their system? The espionage folks all do this with their secret stuff. How can we protect our important government, corporate or military computers in this case?

Well what about an underground facility, with water features above it, Faraday cage, honeycomb bounce back set up would do this, some aluminum mesh too. Perhaps dual glass paned windows with the radio playing between the glass? I mean I am sure that our Anti-ballistic rockets have all that and more in the nose cones to prevent electronic attack, EMP technologies, etc.

I certainly hope this article is of interest and that is has propelled thought. The goal is simple; to help you in your quest to be the best in 2007. I thank you for reading my many articles on diverse subjects, which interest you.

"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/ . Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington

Viacom launches billion-dollar lawsuit against YouTube

US entertainment giant Viacom on Tuesday launched a billion-dollar lawsuit against Google and its affiliate YouTube, accusing the video-sharing website of "massive" copyright infringement.

Viacom, whose empire includes MTV and Paramount Pictures, said YouTube had "built a lucrative business out of exploiting the devotion of fans to others' creative works in order to enrich itself and its corporate parent Google.

"Their business model, which is based on building traffic and selling advertising off of unlicensed content, is clearly illegal and is in obvious conflict with copyright laws," the firm said in a statement.

Viacom filed suit in a New York district court accusing YouTube and Google of "massive intentional copyright infringement" of its entertainment properties, which include many youth-oriented networks like MTV and VH1.

The suit seeks more than one billion US dollars in damages (US$1b = A$1.27b), plus an injunction prohibiting Google and YouTube from further copyright infringement.

It alleges that almost 160,000 unauthorized clips of Viacom's programming have been available on the website, which has attracted millions of followers during its two-year existence.

Last month, YouTube said it would remove more than 100,000 highlights of Viacom television programs after a promised copyright protection system was not installed on the website.

YouTube has stepped up its efforts to remove copyrighted material, and to tie up with entertainment providers, since it was taken over by Google for 1.65 billion dollars in November.

The website says it has concluded more than 1,000 partnerships with content providers, both big and small, including heavyweight broadcasters the BBC, NBC, CBS and Fox.

Viacom, however, said it had no choice but to sue after "a great deal of unproductive negotiation" failed to curtail YouTube's "unlawful business model."

"In fact, YouTube's strategy has been to avoid taking proactive steps to curtail the infringement on its site, thus generating significant traffic and revenues for itself while shifting the entire burden — and high cost — of monitoring YouTube onto the victims of its infringement," it said.

"There is no question that YouTube and Google are continuing to take the fruit of our efforts without permission and destroying enormous value in the process."

California-based Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment. But the Computer and Communications Industry Association (CCIA) lashed out at Viacom for taking legal action.

CCIA president Ed Black said copyright law "must strike a balance" in the digital age. "Unfortunately, some rights holders are pushing an extreme agenda that rejects that balance," he argued.

The Viacom stable also includes Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and more than 130 other television networks around the world, plus an array of websites and the DreamWorks movie studio.

The lawsuit comes a week after software giant Microsoft launched a stinging attack on Google, accusing its Internet rival of riding roughshod over copyright in a rush to grab potentially lucrative content for free.

Agence France-Presse has sued Google in both France and the United States, alleging the Internet search engine includes the agency's headlines, news summaries and photographs without permission on its "Google News" portal.

Google's chief legal officer David Drummond said last week the company did obey copyright laws, "and the result has been more exposure and in many cases more revenue for authors, publishers and producers of content."

In New York trade, Google's high-flying share price was down 1.36 percent at 448.58 dollars while Viacom stock was up 1.44 percent at 40.12 dollars.

Don't Be a Victim of Online Crime

There have been some recent reports about security of your personal information, bank account information and credit card information. More and more consumers are enthusiastically embracing the Internet and it's everyday uses such as online banking and purchasing, emailing, participating in chat rooms and forums and submitting to community websites such as My Space and You Tube. By participating in these activities, our personal and financial information is also being stored online. To help protect your information online, here are a few steps you can take. (Please remember that this information is of a general nature only. Please seek further expert advice to suit your requirements.)

1. Always read the Privacy Policy of any business or institution operating online. Make sure that your details are used only for the purpose stated and most importantly, your details are not given to other third parties.

2. When accessing a secure area of a site where you are required to submit financial information, check that the address bar of the page begins with https://www. Also, some pages will have a padlock symbol on the bottom or top of the browser screen. Ensure that the credit card gateway is provided by a reputable organisation.

3. Ensure that the website uses industry standard security certificates and encryption techniques such 128 bit encryption and SSL technology. SSL certificates can encrypt transactions between the browser (customer) and the web server (website). This means the information you provide cannot be viewed by anyone else. Cryptographers consider 128 bit encryption to be impossible to break, as it would take millions of years with the fastest computers to try all the combinations.

4. Update your passwords regularly.

5. Update your computer security regularly. Any time you are advised about a new security feature to download for your particular browser, you should download it. Purchase up-to-date Internet Security software.

6. Other techniques to minimise your exposure to online fraud includes using a debit credit card for online purchases, where you ‘top up' the card to the desired amount only. Or you can use the one credit card with a low limit for online purchases only.

By following these simple steps you will be able to continue to use the Internet and the amazing benefits it can offer with some peace of mind about your personal and financial details.

By Kelly Honeybrook - Director - Home Buddies - Find local services for parents & homeowners. Find a Nanny, Landscaper, Handyman, Cleaner, Plumber, Electrician and more - Authorised background checking service.

If Acne Has Ruined Your Life, Read My Story

This is the first time I have written an article for the internet so forgive me if I'm no good at it. I did not know any other way to tell people who's lives have been ruined by acne, that I have found something that might be able to cure them.

I have been afflicted with acne for several years and it has ruined my life. I have really bad acne - the pizza face variety and I have missed school a lot because I wouldn't leave the house. I don't have any friends and hardly anybody talks to me. I've never had a girlfriend let alone kissed a girl. I don't want to use my real name because I'm embarrased that some one will know me. I don't want people to make fun of me anymore than they already have.

I have been trying stuff that I found on the internet that is supposed to get rid of acne. Some of the stuff worked a little bit or worked great but didn't last and some stuff didn't work at all. Some stuff works great for some people and not for others. At least that's what I have found. I finally found one that works for me and I thought it might help others who are really afflicted like me. I found the web page here . I hope this helps you as much as it did me.

Good Luck

About the Author:

Pizza Face

I just want to help others like me.

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