How To Download And Set Up an FTP Program

There are a number of things about designing and building your own website which cause confusion and uncertainty to those who are new to this activity. FTP, which stands for File Transfer Protocol, is one of those things that always seems to confuse and intimidate people who are new to website design. Part of this confusion is probably because the full name ‘File Transfer Protocol’ seems to shed no light on understanding what it is, what it does, or what it is used for. In this article I shall attempt to shine a light on this mysterious creature and take the reader through the process of downloading and installing a free and popular program to make FTP available to them.

First, to shed some light on the name ‘FTP’, or File Transfer Protocol’: the word ‘Protocol’ is used in it’s usual everyday sense that it is a set of rules or guidelines by which something is done. So, simply put, a File Transfer Protocol is a set of rules or guidelines by which files can be transferred from one computer to another over the internet or a network. This sometimes doesn’t make any sense to people who don’t understand computers because they don’t realize that many different computers use many different codes. If you have a file on one kind of computer and you want to use it on another kind of computer then without a set of guidelines, or a ‘protocol’, to ‘translate’ the file from one computer to another it would not be possible. FTP is a form of code which helps you when you move a file from one computer to another. Think of FTP as a ‘translator’ or ‘interpreter’ working in the United Nations so that all the different countries can talk to each other and settle their differences.

And that’s it: simple isn’t it? Often people don’t believe it is quite as simple as that but it is. There is nothing else to understand about FTP unless you are about to start programming, which you’re not.

The other thing that helps to make FTP appear confusing and complex is the fact that you often use a program to do it: These are called ‘FTP Clients’. FTP Clients manage the ‘translation’ from one computer to another and will allow you to upload files, which is to send files to the server; or download files, which is to get files from the server. They will also allow you to make changes to files on the server. FTP and the FTP Client are essential ingredients of a web designer, or website owner’s toolkit. There are very many different designs of FTP Clients, many are free and many will cost money to buy. Many operating systems have an FTP client integrated within them and browsers such as Firefox have an FTP client which can be installed and used as part of the browser. You will need to have an account with a web host before using an FTP Client, but so long as you do have a web hosting account then you can use an FTP Client to transfer your site and all your files to the web host, and back again.

One of the most popular free FTP Clients is ‘FileZilla’; it is easy to download and use and, if you are using Windows XP, then I can take you through the steps – although I doubt they are very different if you are using another operating system. I am using Firefox 2, and so if you are using any other browser there may be some slight differences, but nothing major:

The simplest way to download Filezilla is to go to the Google search page and type ‘download.com filezilla’ into the search field and the very top result will be for Filezilla at the download.com website. Click on the link and you will see the name of Filezilla with a big blue link below it saying ‘download now’. Click that and a small window will appear with a button saying ‘save file’ – click to save the file and you will download the software automatically. It will take a few seconds to download.

Now look for the new icon on your desktop; it will be called ‘Filezilla set up’ or something similar. Double click the icon. The first thing you will see is a small window asking you to select your language, make sure it says English (or whatever your preferred language is) then click the ‘ok’ button. A license agreement window will appear; click ‘next’. The next page will ask you to ‘choose components’ – ion most cases the defaults are perfectly ok for most installations so I suggest you agree with the selection and click ‘next’. You will now be asked where you want to install the software, in most cases the default location is your program folder, which is fine; if you want to install it elsewhere then type the location in here, otherwise just click ‘next’. You will now be asked to choose a start menu folder, again, the default will be fine, click ‘next’. You will now be asked to decide on some general settings, if you are using a shared computer then select ‘use secure mode’ otherwise leave all settings as they are and click ‘Install’. The software will now be installed onto your computer; this will only take a few seconds and then you will be asked to close the window – click ‘close’.

You will now have a new icon on your desktop, coloured maroon and blue with a big ‘FZ’ on it and called ‘Filezilla’. You can put the original download file into your recycle bin and delete. Double click the new icon to start your FTP Client.

To use the FTP Client to transfer files between your computer and your web host you will first have to set it up. After double clicking to start up the FTP Client, click on the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Site Manager’. A new window will appear, find the button which says ‘new site’ and click it. A folder will appear in the main area of the window, type the name of your site into the new folder which appears.

Get your login details for your web host, because you’ll need them now. Under ‘Host’ type in the FTP address of your website; this will be a website address beginning with ‘ftp’ in a format such as: ftp.siteforge.net or else it will be a number series in a format such as: 88.88.888.88 – either will do. If the boxes below are greyed out then your site manager is set to anonymous login. To input your login details deselect ‘anonymous’ and select ‘normal’ for Logon and input your username and password for accessing your web host. You can now click ‘connect’ and your FTP Client will connect to your web host and you can upload or download files for your site.

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How to Get HDTV

You’ve heard about it, and you’ve seen it displayed in stores. Perhaps now it’s time for you to get HDTV.

Buy an HDTV

To get HDTV (high definition television) programming, you must have a television capable of showing the HDTV picture. Visit your local electronics store or shop online to see the various HD compatible televisions available. High definition can boost the price of a basic television set, but it is becoming increasingly a standard feature in most new sets. Check to see if your current television allows for HD, and if not, treat yourself to a new television with HD compatibility.

Call the Cable Company

Chances are, if you’re just now buying a HD television, you don’t already have HDTV coming through the cable box or satellite. Pick up the phone and call your representative about the HD options available in your viewing area. There are more HD channels being released all the time, so chances are good you have at least a handful of HDTV channels to choose from.

Your cable company may offer a HDTV package, or you may have to choose which channels you’d actually like to receive. Once you’ve made your selections and gotten service set up, you can expect a visit from the installation tech.

Install Your HDTV Box

Some companies may be able to send HDTV signals to your current cable or satellite box, but chances are you’ll have to get an upgraded receiver. The cable technician will come to call with the new box, a new remote, and all the necessary wires. You’ll need to show him how your new television works and have the owner’s manual on hand for the new TV should something prove tricky. Most likely, however, the tech will plug in a few wires, make a phone call, and have your HDTV up an running in less than thirty minutes.

Enjoy!

Once you’re installed, you can pull up the old TV trays and popcorn while you enjoy crystal clear picture and sound. Throw in a new HD DVD for a real trip through the movies and spend some time experiencing nature as closely as you can through wires with HD Discovery. The longer you watch HD, the more you’ll wonder how you ever got along without it.

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How to Install a Sundial

There are many ways to install sundials – not just on a southern oriented wall. So long as your sundial receives light during the day, it can be installed almost anywhere suitable to the style of your particular sundial.

Installing Sundials Outside

If you’re installing your sundial outside in the garden or patio, you have a few different options. A horizontal or equatorial sundial can be placed where two paths intersect, in the heart of a flower bed or in the middle of the yard. Mount this kind of sundial on a column, but be sure to keep the column under four feet however.

A meridian sundial can be hung from a tree in the yard or on a pillar. It can also be hung from a gatepost assuming the gateposts are facing south. The sundial can be hung anywhere that receives sun in the midday and facing south (or north if you’re in the southern hemisphere.

Installing Sundials on the House

To install sundials on your home, you must first decide what use you will receiving from your sundial. If your dial is primarily decorative, you can hang it above the door as a show of hospitality. You can also hang the dial on any wall without regard to orientation if you are using it only as decoration.

If, however, you are going to actually read your sundial, you’ll want to install it with the correct cardinal direction. A vertical direct south sundial should be hung on a southern wall with the dial facing directly south. Even if the wall isn’t directly facing south, you can orient the sundial using pegs or other means of raising it a bit on one side or the other.

To hang a sundial for the sunrise or sunset, hang it on an east or west facing wall. This positioning works well for direct east, direct west or vertical declining sundial.

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How to Build a Garden Path

A well-designed garden path not only leads you through your garden, but keeps your feet dry and protects your plants from being damaged. Ideally, a path invites you into the garden, leading you under beautiful branches and around trickling fountains, and even over garden bridges. By following a few easy steps, you can build a garden path that does all of this and even more.

Plan Your Route

Whether your path is intended to lead from the driveway through the garden to the front door, or from the patio to a secluded bench, the first step is to plan your route. If your path is prone to heavy traffic and is more utilitarian than superfluous, a straight and wide path that gets the traveler where they want to go is best. This doesn’t mean your path will be boring.

Plant interesting foliage along the path and add garden ornaments to keep the path attractive. A secondary path that might branch off of the main path can be narrower, since it is not expecting the heavy traffic flow, and might twist and turn a bit more. Instead of twisting and turning at random, make your curves seem practical—bending the path around an existing tree or placing a boulder in the nook of the curve.

Choose a Material

When choosing a material, it is important to consider again the purpose of your path, as well as your budget. You can use materials from sand or mulch, which can be free, to relatively expensive cut stone or pavers. Keep safety in mind. For primary paths, use a surface material that will be safe whether it is wet or dry, and will not slip or become uneven. Also, consider the style of your house. The material you use for your path should blend in or complement the style of the existing house and other structures.

Install the Path

The exact method of installation will depend on the type of material you chose. Regardless of the material, however, you will need to ensure good drainage so you are not creating a swamp or bog instead of a path. Additionally, you’ll probably use a base and some edging to ensure a level path. Once you have your path, you’ll love to use it and you will take great pride in knowing you created it.

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How to Maximize Space in an Apartment

Apartments are often a bit short on space, especially in critical locations such as kitchens and bathrooms. Maximizing this space can be an exercise in patience or simply a task for someone ready to use their creativity to earn extra space and a bit of extra organization as well.

Maximize Space in an Apartment Closet

Apartment closets are often too small for all of your clothes. If this is the case in your closet, take the clothes that are currently out of season and store them in large storage bags or totes. You may be able to fit the totes on the top shelf of the closet or you can buy specialty totes that slide under the bed. When the seasons change, simply switch out the clothes you are currently storing.

You can also maximize apartment closet space by investing in a closet organization system. Find one that hangs on an existing closet bar so that you can take the system with you when you move on rather than being forced to leave it behind for the new tenants.

Maximize Space in an Apartment Kitchen

Maximize space in your apartment kitchen by eliminating waste such as a junk drawer. The items usually kept in a junk drawer can be organized into other areas by using gadgets such as a battery organizer, desk organizer, and a series of small containers to keep rubber bands, tie-tabs and other small items.

Store large kitchen items on top of the refrigerator or in a hall closet to leave the cabinets free for dishes and glasses. If you buy kitchen items or groceries in bulk, use the space under the table or above a washing machine to keep large boxes out of the way.

Maximize Space in an Apartment Bedroom and Bath

You can save space in an apartment bedroom by using shelves to store items up rather than along walls. You can also buy platforms for your bed to give yourself additional space for storage underneath. If you have a large bed, consider moving your dresser into the closet if it will fit to give yourself extra wall and traffic space in the bedroom.

In an apartment bathroom, maximize cabinet space, buy placing shelves inside the cabinet. You can buy shelves that don’t require installation so you can use them in other apartments down the road. You may also consider a series of stacking baskets for towel storage or a system of shelves or cabinets that can be arranged over the toilet. Again, look for ways to store up the walls rather than across them to maximize the height of the room as the width will be severely limited.

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How To Install Sub Woofers

The majority of car manufacturers do not include sub woofers with the factory produced stereo systems in their cars. Correctly installing sub woofers into your car can be a somewhat complicated procedure so you want to pay close attention to the instructions. Many car enthusiasts purchase sub woofers that are enclosed in a prefabricated enclosure box because of ease of installation.

The following instructions will aid in the installation of sub woofers into your vehicle.

Remove Old Equipment

The first thing you need to do when installing sub woofers is to remove all of the carpeting or other material and then thoroughly clean the metal area below. Take care that you do not damage the carpeting as you will eventually be putting it back into your trunk. Once that step has been completed you will want to take a hair dryer and completely heat the sound deadening material. Another option would be to leaving the sound deadening material outside is a spot that gets a lot of sunshine during the day and let it heat up that way.

Next you need to take spray glue and apply it to the exposed metal surface of your trunk while peeling the back of the sound deadening material that you just heated up. Apply the sound deadening material to the area that you just sprayed glue onto as you continue to heat the material during application.

Sound Deadening

While you are applying the sound deadening material to your trunk you want to be extremely careful to apply the material evenly to make sure that it bonds correctly together. After you are finished then replace the carpeting or material that you removed from your trunk earlier. Once this process has been completed you need to get ready to get your speaker system going. Your speaker hookups will need to be reconfigured in order for the front and back speakers that are already in your speaker system to be using the front two channels of your amplifier. You will see that your amplifier should be equipped with a high-pass crossover that will enable you to control those two speakers.

The rear channels of your amplifier will need to be bridged into mono which will allow your amplifier to produce twice the amount of power. There are instructions that should have come with your amplifier that will explain to you how to do this task. Now you are all set to get your sub woofers hooked up. You can start by using 12-gauge speaker wire to wire in you two sub woofers. You amplifier’s rear channel should be equipped with a low-pass crossover. You will need to run some tests to determine which crossover point is going to get the best performance from your sub woofers.

Brace The Enclosure

Metal L shaped brackets are the absolute best things to use to brace the enclosure and the box will be most stable if it is secured right to the floor of the trunk or a wall of the trunk. It is a smart idea to apply some type of sealant around the the brackets that you will be using to secure that box so that no air will be able to escape from the box.

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How To Install a Steering Wheel

The task of installing a steering wheel does not seem like too difficult to most especially if you are a mechanically inclined type of person. There is however, a lot small pieces and parts need to be kept careful track of so installing a steering wheel is a job that requires a good amount of patience.

Read the Steering Wheel Instructions!

The first thing that you need to do is read the instructions that came with your new steering wheel and gather the required tools. A pliers and screwdriver are two of the tools that will be most likely needed to install a steering wheel.

After carefully removing the old steering wheel making very sure to keep track of all the parts that you have removed you are ready to begin installing your new steering wheel.

First of all you need to begin by placing a small tubular sleeve down across the steering shaft. Next you will want to position the hub being certain that the shaft is properly aligned with the earlier marks that you made. You may need to make some slight adjustments in order to make sure everything fits correctly.

Next you will want to take the plastic sleeve that you removed the wire from along with the spring that you removed and insert them both into the plastic horn housing. If the plastic sleeve does not measure 1/8 of an inch below the top of the hub it needs to be cut so that it does. When the plastic sleeve measures correctly remove it.

Running the Wires

Take the wire lead that can be found in the kit for the new steering wheel and place it through the plastic housing. The bell shaped end of the wire lead will not be able to pass through the plastic sleeve. The end will be placed into the horn contact housing and can be locked into place once it has been inserted.

Wire needs to be routed around the hub, you need to start the wire at the ten o’clock position and route it to the two o’clock position to make sure that the wheel will end up properly aligned. Once you are sure all the wires are in the correct positions you will want to fasten the hub together with the wheel and post cover but be sure to not tighten everything completely.

If you find that your steering wheel is in the proper position you can then replace the shaft nut that you removed along with the shaft nut retainer. Take the shoulder bolts off and reinsert them into the retainer ring checking to see that the fiber side is facing toward you. Use caution when putting the shoulder bolts back in as if they are tightened to tightly the hub can be damaged. If everything is done correctly the shaft nut will hold all the pieces firmly together.

The next step in how to install a steering wheel is to reconnect the wire lead to the connector on the retainer ring. The center nut needs to then be aligned with the position spring. Match the dimples in the horn cap with the relief in the fiber material and push the dimples into the fiber material. Turn the horn cap in either direction until it is snug.

Your final step is to replace the horn fuse or reconnect the battery(whichever you did when you removed the old wheel) then you have successfully installed a new steering wheel.

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How To Install a Sports Seat

When a car enthusiast is looking to upgrade their car one of the first things that comes to mind is replacing the factory seat in their car with a sport’s seat. When you are looking to find a sport’s seat to install in your car you want to check out automotive magazine or even the internet to find out more about popular sport’s seat brands such as Cobra and Flofit and determine which type of seat is going to best suit your car.

Select Your Sport’s Seat

Once you have chosen the sport’s seat that you would like to put into your car then you should contact the manufacturer to find out where a local retailer is located. After you have chosen your sport’s seat, you are ready to get it home and install it.

Installing a sport’s seat into your car is a fairly easy task to complete although some may find tightening some of the screws on the sport’s seat a bit difficult. To begin this project you are going to need the following tools: a battery powered drill with a screwdriver bit, a regular screwdriver and a pair of good quality pliers. Having the proper tools to perform this job will make the work got much more smoothly.

Before Installing You New Seat

Before you start working with the seats take the time to sit down and go over the installation manual for the seats so that you are completely familiar with the installation procedure. After you have done that go over the adapter kit that you have purchased to make sure you have each and every piece needed to correctly install your new sport’s seat. This way you will not be half way through your installation and find that you are missing a piece or two.

Now you can begin to unbolt the original seat from your car while paying close attention to how the seat fastens into your car. Once the original seat has been unbolted then lift the seat and remove it from your car.

Get Rid of Your Old Car Seat

After the original seat has been removed, you can then begin installing your sport’s seat. You can bolt the new sport’s seat into place using the pieces of your adapter kit as necessary. By paying attention to how the original seat was bolted in it should be no problem to place the sport’s seat into your car and attach it correctly.

Now that your sport’s seat has been successfully installed you will want to move the seat into different positions to make sure that it fits properly and that the sport’s seat does not cause any type of obstruction. If the sport’s seat doesn’t move as it should you need to unbolt it and remove it from your car and go over how the seat is to be bolted in one more time while also determining the need for more or less adapter pieces.

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How to Install a Sunroof

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Believe it or not, installing a sun roof on your car is not all that hard. In fact, most do it yourself-ers should be able to handle the installation with little problem. The biggest issue people run into is cutting through their cars’ roof. It’s not hard to do but, often people find the cutting up of their roof psychologically difficult. Overcome this complication and you will soon find yourself the owner of a new sunroof laden car.

For the purpose of this how to guide, we have chosen to install an electric sunroof with a sliding shader panel kit. There are plenty of different “kits” available online. Hopefully by demonstrating how to install one of the more difficult versions of sunroofs, we will be able to cover most generic installs. As always, if you need help with your installation, please seek out a professional.

Prepare Your Vehicle for a New Sun Roof

Before you begin your sunroof kit installation, set up the area you will be using with your tools. Most installations will require a marking pencil, tape measure, razor blade, scratch awl, fiber stick, a rivet tool, sheet metal sheers, drill and bits and a #2 screwdriver. Of course different installation may require specific tools but, this list should cover the basics.

Also, be sure to run a “bench test” of your sunroof. A bench test (a complete test of the sunroof before it is installed) will help ensure that you have all the pieces in the kit and that there are no mechanical problems. You will also want to lay a sheet or tarp down on the interior of your car so that your upholstery is protected.

Position and Test Your New Sunroof

Take the shade tray and hold it to the interior top of your car. You will want to make sure that there is at least 4 inches on each side of the shade tray. Once you find the location that you want to install you your sunroof at, mark the location by using an awl or screwdriver. Poke a hole through the headliner and push on hard enough to make a small dent through the metal. This will help you find the location from the outside.

The next step is to remove the headliner and headliner board from the inside of your car. If you have an older car, this might be a good time to consider replacing the headliner anyhow. You can remove any anti-flutter bows you find but be sure to leave and not cut any of the structural braces.

Measure and mark a line on the outside of your car, from the front to the rear of your chosen location for your sunroof. The line will need to cross through the middle of your sunroof. Next, align your template to the centerline and tape it to the top of your car.

Poke a hole though the metal, preferably where you dented it earlier, to allow your metal sheers the cut out the sunroof template. Once the roof section is removed, use a file to smooth the surface of the edges. Having a smooth surface will be important in order to prevent leaking.

Install the Sunroof Kit

Test the fit of the sunroof. There should be a 4mm clearance on each side of the opening. If the sunroof fits properly, apply a metal primer to the cut edges to prevent rusting. Clean the underside of the sunroof and apply a sealant to the inner lip of the main frame, then insert the sunroof into the opening on your car.

From the inside, hook the clamping ring and screw in the attachment screws. Make the screws tight but do not over tighten or strip them. Clean any excess sealant that has squeezed out.

Install the sunshade rack assembly using the short screws at the front mounting points and attach the wiring harness. Each sunroof will be wired differently so please refer to your installation manual or your manufacturer for electrical wiring installation.

Finally, reattach your headliner and board. You can use double-sided sticky tape for any problem areas.

Easy Step By Step Instructions

• Prepare for the install by gathering supplies and materials
• Position the sunroof and cut the roof of the vehicle
• Use the instructions to install your sunroof

Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions

Installing a sunroof is not difficult however, if you have any misgivings or hesitation seek professional help.

How to Install a Car Alarm

Installing a car alarm can be a tricky and complicated process. There are hundreds of different models and methods of installing an alarm. In fact, it would be almost impossible to create a how to guide to cover all of these variations and possible complications. This project is something most people should not hassle with. Most local mechanics should be able to install the device much quicker and cheaper then you can do yourself.

That being said however, do it your self car alarm installations are possible, all you really need is time and patience. Your instruction manual will most likely prove to be more useful than any generic online guide, so follow it step by step. Most car alarm companies offer tech support that can assist with general instructions over the phone.

You Will Need:

When you get ready to install your new car alarm, ensure that you have plenty of time set aside and that you will not need to use your vehicle for the duration of the installation. Most self installations can be completed within a weekend. You will need to ensure that you have a tool set handy (knife, sockets, screwdrivers, crimps, soldering iron, voltmeter etc.) as well as your install kit and instructions. When installing your new alarm, remember to use a volt-meter to ensure that you do not injure yourself or damage your vehicles wiring.

Start by attaching the alarm siren to the under-surface of your hood. Ensure that the feed horn is pointed towards the engine so that water will not get inside it as you are driving. If your alarm kit did not come with a siren mount you can usually avoid having to weld it to the roof by using tie straps. Feed the siren wires through to the interior of the car via the firewall. Most often you can find existing wire holes that you can use. If not, simply drill a small hole through the rubber grommet.

Power Your Car Alarm

Next, attach the alarm’s power cable to your battery. Feed the other end of this cable through to the interior of the car along with the other wires. Once, inside the interior of the car, run an inline fuse, if the cable does not have one already installed. Your fuse size can vary so check the specifications of your alarm prior to attaching the fuse.

Once the cable are run through to the interior of the vehicle; Mount your shock sensors. Each type of sensor will vary so, refer to your user manual for further details.

Next, drill a small hole into your dash where you want to have your LED indicator displayed. Feed the display wires thought the hole and attach to the LED. If your LED is not housed in a display box, you will want to attach the light to the dash using tape or other adhesive.

Once finished with the LED light, find the wires that control your car’s power locks (if you have power locks) and connect the door-lock relay to the alarm relay. Again, if you need help with this step refer to your user manual or call your alarm manufacturers support line.

Attach the starter wires (found underneath the steering column to the starter disable relay. Connect the relay to the alarm device before you mount the alarm module to the bottom of your dash.

Click Here for a sample wiring schematic.

For your convenience, here are some of the more common car alarm installation manuals. If you know of another manual that we do not have listed, please let us know so that we can add it. * Note: each of these manuals was obtained via public ally available information.

The Vellman-Kit
The DEFA Auto Alarm Series
Commando Alarm Series

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