Features of Smart TVs Explained

So, you'd like to buy a new TV, but are quite put off by the range of sparkly new technology, not knowing exactly what it all means. You may be sceptical about the benefits a smart TV can bring you or the addition this new technology may have on your TV watching. Well, here are some of the more popular specifications explained.

What is Smart TV?

You may have a smart phone and smart TV is the addition of such technology to your TV. This means that your TV is now connected to the Internet in a similar way to that of your smart phone. This means not only can you browse the Internet from your TV, but you also have the benefit of apps, such as social media apps, TV apps or video apps such as YouTube. It also allows you to watch content on demand such as BBC IPlayer, 4OD and others. This means you have a wide range of TV stations and thousands of hours of TV from the past and recent present at the touch of a button and at a lower price than you would expect with deal of the day pages.

Apps

Many TVs also allow you access to a whole range of other apps that are outside of the realm of normal TVs. Imagine if you could do your exercise routine from your TV, well with smart TV apps from Cork deals you can.

There is also a wide range of games, recipe apps and all sorts of other applications on your TV and if you want more, you just download them and add them to your TV. This makes your TV all the more versatile and really makes it the central entertainment feature in your home at a low price thanks to a deal page like Groupon.ie.

PVR/ USB/ Streaming

Many new TVs come with USB slots and these allow you to play files from your computer, whether they are video, music or even document files. This means you can download files on your computer and enjoy them on the large TV screen.

PVR and USB also allow you to connect up a hard disk drive and then to record the TV shows you want for watching whenever you want on the TV. Add to this the fact many TVs also come with the option to stream from other devices in your home via a wireless network and you really have almost unlimited content.

Software such as Samsung's All Share allows you to play media from a computer or phone onto your big screen wirelessly. Great for those embarrassing videos or for people who want to watch their videos from their hard drive collection.

50/100Hz

This is the refresh rate of the television and is the amount of times that the picture will refresh itself in a second. Essentially, the more times you refresh a page in a period the smoother it will look like it runs.

There is the option for processor software refresh rates and these can return hundreds of refreshes a second. However, it is often found they look a little processed and many people prefer the natural refresh rates.

3D Technology

Though it has lost its lustre a little 3D technology can make your TV all the more enjoyable. Gamers especially find that playing games in 3D can really enhance the experience for one reason or another. There are two types of 3D technology - active and passive. Both of these use 3D glasses to create the effect though one - passive - is quite similar to the old light style of glasses you get in the cinema and the other - active - uses active glasses. Neither is better to be honest and it often depends on a number of other factors when deciding such as deal of the day pages and the price you pay.

A new TV is something that can really make the difference to your home and really is something that adds to the enjoyment of your movies, TV games and also with smart TVs, Internet experiences.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.D3ALS.co.uk providing and aggregation of daily deals, Hotel Deals, Holiday Deals, Spa Deals including Ireland deals. Visit http://www.D3ALS.co.uk for more information on www.D3ALS.co.uk Products & Services. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit www.D3ALSco.uk for all your deals in one place and in one email.

Great UK Coastal Walking Breaks

Great breaks are pretty easy to come by these days and there are plenty of places around the UK that are offering discount codes for a night or two away from the usual run of the mill weekend activities. So, for those looking to get away from home, where are the best spots to head if you want to get out and about and see a little bit of natural Britain?

Pembrokeshire

For those looking to get in some of the most beautiful of sights in the UK, then a visit to Pembrokeshire is perfect and Stackpole head is a must see. The countryside around here includes the Barafundle Bay region and really is one of the best areas to see some of Britain's limestone cliff faces. There are also the Bosherton Lily ponds to take a trip to and it really is a spectacular site. The area is full of great walks beside the sea, meaning that you can work up a hunger and a thirst before returning to your hotel for some food and a few drinks.

Isle of Skye

If you want a break in one of the most beautiful coastal regions of the entire world, then the Isle of Skye may just be the place to visit. It really offers a harsh beauty that is thoroughly endearing to the eye and there are plenty of discount codes going round to make it that bit less costly. The Cuillin Mountains is a must climb and offers great vies of the sea, lochs and all the area around. It really is quite a rustic area and one that seasoned walkers will more than enjoy. However, if you are a little less than experienced and don't have the legs for a 15 mile trip then Elgol has a boat you can take to Camasunary to save your legs.

Fife

It seems we are Scotland bound for outdoor breaks; however the country really has some of the most beautiful landscape in the British Isles. A trip to Pittenweem is a worthwhile visit and there are plenty of things to do for those there for a long weekend. From the rock pools to the wonderful castles that lie in ruins along the coastline, it really provides for spectacular viewing. St Monan's is also worth a visit and you're sure to come back feeling refreshed.

Beachy Head

Of course, if you live in the south and don't want too much of a trek from London town then a visit to Brighton and on to Seven Sisters is certainly worth it. The beautiful white cliffs are renowned throughout the UK and there is plenty to see and do. The Seven Sisters Country Park is a great walk, as is Cuckmere haven. You can also bathe there if you are fortunate enough to get good weather - though that's more of a summer activity. Of course, there are plenty of pubs within walking distance and that's sure to make the whole journey all the more enjoyable. Then you can head back to Brighton town for your stay in a wonderful boutique guest house and then enjoy a night of food, theatre or clubbing - whatever you like.

Boggle Hole

This wonderful and very quiet area is one that is perfect for lighter walkers and still has all the luxuries you want from a discount code based weekend break. Walks along the beach and ravines are wonderful and you are right at the centre of the fossil centre of the UK. This means that the views are spectacular and there is also the chance of seeing a fossil from hundreds of millions of years ago if you keep your eyes peeled.

Britain really provides some amazing places to get out and to see, especially if you enjoy walking, a few drinks in a country pub and some great grub. And, the best thing is promo codes make it all the more affordable.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.5hop5.ie providing House of Fraser Promo Codes. Visit http://www.5hop5.ie for more information on www.5hop5.ie Products & Services. Copyright information This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit www.5hop5.ie before you shop.

Start Running Now

Some sports are more interesting than others and though from the outset you may not perceive it, the running bug is one that gets most who take any interest at all in the pastime.

Running is an activity that involves little cost and also can be partaken in almost anywhere. There's no need for a team and you can race alone, against the clock and against competitors if you like, as well as part of a team. In fact, in a lot of ways it's the perfect sport and a great way to maintain and interest and of course most importantly keep active.

Running is one of the most efficient ways of keeping active and burns more calories than most other pastimes or sports. When you consider you can burn up to 1,000 calories in little more than an hour running at a good pace, you understand the potential for weight loss and also for feeling better? So, what are the necessities for those who want to make the most of running?

Trainers

Unfortunately, you normal trainers won't do and you may begin looking for a deal of the day and a new pair of trainers. Normal runners firstly don't offer the support required for running and you will need a pair that support the arches and also the knees and back. The cushioning in the soul will take the strain of the repetitive action of running and make it feel all the easier on the body.

Trainers are also that bit lighter than most other sorts of runners or shoes. This is often because the sole, which is the heaviest part of the trainer, is filled up with gas or air and so is lighter than any material normally used. For running over long distances this makes a significant difference as regards comfort and also tiredness of feet.

GPS

Whether, you want to purchase a GPS watch, available often on daily deal sites, or would simply like to download an app for your phone, GPS makes all the difference for runners. GPS allows you to track things such as your speed, distance, calories burned and many also come with integrated training programs too, which allows you to monitor your fitness. Many are also connected to your email meaning you get a large detailed breakdown of stats, allowing you to dissect your training.

All weather

Of course, many of us look for any excuse to get out of our training and would rather sit at home with our daily deals sites and emails in front of the TV. However, through a little investment in some thermals and a good rain jacket it is possible to train and go for a run in the most adverse of weather conditions. Many of these items are available on daily deal sites and also most good sports shops. They allow you the opportunity to make the very most of training through all weathers.

Food

One of the things about running and training is that to do it properly you may need to change your diet. Of course, if you are running significant distances regularly then you will have to increase the amount of food you eat. You should also purchase supplements that will ensure you get the most from your running. Protein shakes can really benefit people who are involved in training heavily and want to add muscle to their bodies. Of course, running is a carbohydrate heavy exercise and breads, pastas and oats are ideal for those who need to run. These foods will give you the energy required to make the most of your long distance exercises.

Running is an ideal pastime as we have mentioned and partaking in it three or so times a week in a focused and absorbed manner can have significant benefits for health, wellbeing and mental vigour.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.D3ALS.co.uk providing and aggregation of , Hotel Deals, Holiday Deals, Spa Deals including deal of the day CODES. Visit http://www.D3ALS.co.uk for more information on www.D3ALS.co.uk Products & Services. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit www.D3ALSco.uk for all your  in one place and in one email.

50 Shades of Grey vs. Really Controversial Books

Women are going potty for 50 Shades of Grey, the steamy S&M based affair. In fact, you can't get onto a bus, train, plane, or into an automobile without being confronted by the grey livery of the book. Some have called it terrible, heinous and immoral; with papers up in arms about the fact the main character Christian Grey treats women like objects. For businesses it has opened up a whole range of opportunities and you'll find all sorts of d3als on the book and events surrounding it.

However it has never even been considered to be banned and is essentially Mills and Boon for the 21st century; it pales in its shade to some of the other banned books we have below and caused far more controversy - so what are they?

America Psycho

This is probably a good one to start with when we're on the trail of rich men treating women like objects. American Psycho, written by Bret Easton Ellis showcases the experience of a rich banker living in 1980s New York, during the greed is good era. The book simply retells main character Patrick Bateman's experiences as a wealthy yuppie, no need for daily deals there. However, his experiences are a little more wholesome than most and we're taken into the dark mind of the character and along for the dark ride. The book showcases all sorts of drug abuse, sexual and physical violence and is still banned in Queensland, Australia, having only recently been unbanned in Canada.

Lolita

The book is based around the story of Humbert Humbert, who marries a woman who's 12 year old daughter he has feelings for The  family move to a small town in America and Humbert absconds with the 12 year old 'nymphet' trying to keep their relationship a secret to those on the road. Lolita was banned in the UK and France in the 1950s as it was deemed pornographic, though was published in the USA without issue. 50 Shades of Grey it is not.

Things Fall Apart

This piece of African literature by Chinua Achebe is written about the leader of a local tribe and recalls the Christian and British influences in Africa during a period of the early 20^th century. The book was banned in Malaysia due to its criticism of colonialism.

Brave New World

Aldous Huxley's parody of Men like God's by H.G. Wells is similar in a lot of ways to 1984 by George Orwell. The book explores division among humanity, industrialisation and identity. However, it was banned in Ireland for its childbirth portrayals and then in parts of the USA for its negative influence on perception.

The Metamorphosis

Franz Kafka's story of a salesman who wakes up to find himself turned into a giant bug is one that is used in all sorts of fiction to this day. The story revolves around how society and his family treat him and lock him away in his room as an embarrassment, until he is forgotten about. The book was banned under both the Soviet and Nazi regimes.

The Grapes of Wrath

This Pulitzer winning novel by John Steinbeck is based around the Great Depression and on the Joads who have been driven from Oklahoma due to the dust bowl. A life that's long way from the current economic crisis for which we have offer a day deals and still feel hard done by. The Joads take the trip to California with thousands of others, one which is marred by hardship and described in detail by Steinbeck. However, America didn't take well to the book and it was burned for its portrayal of the poor and the negative perception it created of America. Steinbeck later even claimed that this was a lighter version of events that what was really happening, which riled the country up further. However, the book, like all of the others is an acclaimed piece of work that puts controversy around 50 Shades of Grey in the, well... Shade.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.D3ALS.ie providing and aggregation of daily deals, Hotel Deals, Holiday Deals, Spa Deals including deal of the day CODES. Visit http://www.D3ALS.ie for more information on www.D3ALS.ie Products & Services. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit www.D3ALSco.uk for all your deals in one place and in one email.

Buying Mobile Broadband

One of the things that you should always check for when purchasing broadband is the actual speed rather than the advertised speed. When you compare broadband, initially on a superficial level at least, many broadband providers will show you speed of anything up to 50mb per second.

Such fast connections are more than enough for any of us, with even 10mb per second more than suitable for 90% of people's home requirements.

Broadband Speeds

Broadband is stated as any connection that offers a speed of over 2mb per second, so you would imagine that most companies are offering well over that - well not necessarily. When you purchase broadband you may not realise it but you are receiving an 'up to' speed from the company in question. This speed is the maximum pace you could expect from that line, though the chances of receiving the very highest echelons of such a speed are slim to none to be franks.

Most broadband and mobile broadband companies struggle to reach speeds of even half the advertised up to speed according to Ofcom in the UK. In fact, most companies will never reach such speeds, though will certainly not tell you this either. Of course, some companies are also far bigger offenders than others.

Traditional Broadband

Traditional broadband over telephone lines is the biggest offender and rates via this older medium are appalling when they are compared in tests. According to the Guardian, the average gap between advertised speed and real speed was 42% for all broadband with a far wider leap for the difference when only phone lines were included.

Fibre optic speeds, which use fibre optic lines specifically created catering for broadband, provide speeds much nearer to those expected from a quick look at the adverts. These are generally up to and around the speed advertised, take a few MB away at times. And, with many of these ADSL or fibre optic lines quoting up to 40mb per second, this is a massive leap against the pace of phone line based broadband.

No Broadband

The UK survey also showcased an even more interesting fact, it seems that nearly 25% of the UK can't even get broadband. This would mean that one quarter of the population can't get a broadband signal or their connection will not average above that of 2mb per second - the necessary speed considered to be broadband - so, compare broadband.

Satisfaction with broadband levels is often patchy, with many people suffering poor speeds, lacklustre reliability and poor customer service when something goes wrong. All of this can be a significant negative on your experience and really is a big reason why people need to compare broadband to get the best deal for their area and to encourage competitions between providers.

Quality Service

There are significant discrepancies and major differences between the levels of quality offered by providers of broadband. This is also not just specific to individual providers. Different providers offer better service in some areas than others and that's why a case by case basis is required when purchasing broadband

Fortunately, the Internet allows for broadband companies to be subject to criticism where needs be and there are numerous forums on the Internet that show independent analysis of broadband and mobile broadband quality in an area. Add to this the speed checkers available online or via phone apps and you have no reason not to compare broadband.

These can provide you with the speed you actually get from your broadband as opposed to the speed you can get up to. Most broadband companies offer you the opportunity to return the broadband within a set period, which allows you to use it, speed check it and then deem if you are satisfied before taking it. This should definitely be used for anyone who feels that their Internet connection is a little patchy.

So, take the above advice to heart and be open to the information. Always remember that you are paying for a service and should expect the best service possible. So, being aware of this can help and allow you the best broadband experience around.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.MobilePhoneDeals.ie which lists and compares mobile phone deals and mobile broadband deals in Ireland.  Compare O2 Mobile Phones, Vodafone Mobile Deals, Meteor.ie Mobile Phones and Three.ie Deals. Visit http://www.MobilePhoneDeals.ie for more information. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included.

5 Great Places for some Winter Sun

The deficiency in vitamin C during the winter can leave many of us drained and tired and that's why for many of us a trip for some winter sun is a necessity. Aside from needing a break from the stresses of life; a little sun in the depths of the winter also benefits our immune systems, increases the levels of numerous vitamins in the body and just gives us something to look forward to. So, where should you be looking to go on your deal page for some rays this up and coming winter?

Gambia

If you would like to inject some sunshine into your winter then you might want to look at the oasis of calm and chill that is Gambia. This African country is one of the most relaxed places you'll find and if your idea of ideal is small, slow fishing villages and brightly painted wooden boats - then Gambia is the place to go.

Gambia has an array of wonderful boutique accommodations for those who want comforts, but wish to use them as a stepping stone to get out and see this wonderful African country. Food in Gambia is perfect for those who like the simple and tasty and fresh fish, great curries and fruits are in abundance. There are also plenty of wonderful beaches in the country and plenty of nature reserves to visit too - so, if you want to take a day trip to see the local nature it's perfect.

Gambia is really a worthwhile place to visit for sun during the colder parts of the year. It's a pleasant, relaxed place with a lot going for it.

Thailand

Another wonderful country for some winter sun, great food and fantastic beaches is Thailand. The southern islands are the perfect place to take a visit to if a heavenly break is what you want. Getting away from the rain and misery is something easily done on your own private beach or while overlooking an infinity pool sipping cocktails.

Thailand is also renowned for the quality of service on offer and the great cuisine, as well as the friendliness of the people.  For those looking to get away during the Christmas holidays it's a great spot, though don't expect the turkey.

Tel Aviv

Take a trip to Israel for the colder parts of the year. One of the most westernised area in the Middle East and with pleasant temperatures throughout the winter. Tel Aviv is a metropolitan city with plenty to do, great beaches and a fantastic nightlife.

Add to this the fact it is only 4-5 hours of a flight and it places a lot of countries that are further afield into perspective. The food is also Mediterranean and Middle Eastern and Israeli's have a strong love for good food and there are plenty of great places to eat.

Egypt

If you want to go somewhere that's a little different culturally in the Middle East and still make a trip into Africa, then Egypt might just be the place for you. The country has cloudless skies and pleasant temperatures through the winter and there is seldom any rain.

Flights to the country take around 5 hours and it can be gotten at quite good prices with deal of the day and daily deal sites. It really is a great place to banish the winter blues and often at a great price with Cork deals.

Lanzarote

Warm, close and reliably sunny, Lanzarote is a great place to visit during the winter and comes with plenty of sunshine and is easy to find accommodation in. Playa Blanca is a little warmer and more prone to better weather during the winter. Expect a British summer in the winter and around 6 hours of sun a day. It's around 4 hour's flight and also quite reasonable thanks to daily deals. Do choose a pool with heating though as the sea is still very cold during this period of the year.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www.D3ALS.co.uk providing and aggregation of daily deals, Hotel Deals, Holiday Deals, Spa Deals including deal of the day CODES. Visit http://www.D3ALS.co.uk for more information on www.D3ALS.co.uk Products & Services. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit www.D3ALSco.uk for all your deals in one place and in one email.

What to Expect from iPhone 5

The iPhone 5 is on the horizon, or so we are told. The new device is set to replace the older iPhone 4 model which has been around for nearly two years in its same aesthetic form now. IPhone 5 is said to be a number of things on that of the older device and is even claimed to be different in the way it will look. This is of course one of the most exciting parts of the new phone. So, what should we expect from the iPhone; before we even have to decide which mobile plan to go on?

One of the most notable things about the new device is that it comes as Apple is at its zenith as a company having recently become the most powerful and most valuable company in the world. This $619Bn valuation places a lot of pressure on the company to deliver the goods with the new device - so, what should we expect from Apple.

Screen

One of the additions that have been touted for a while has been the addition of a larger screen. When we compare phones with the Samsung Galaxy S3, we see that there is a remarkable difference in size. The iPhone 4 comes with a 3.5inch screen and the new Samsung a 4.8inch display. This has meant that Apple is looking to increase their devices screen size and suggestions are that it will come with a 4inch display, which is around a 15% increase in size on the previous phone.

This may not be similar in size to the goliath like screens out there but will improve reading, browsing, maps and all sorts of viewing on the screen no end and also change the aspect. This will mean a change in pixilation is required and Apple will need more pixels over the larger area to ensure it is a retina display.

Slimmer and Bigger

The new screen will mean the phone is larger and so will be able to pack the components into a larger area. This may mean the phone can be slimmer and the device will be the slightest iPhone yet.

Apple will also possibly release an integrated screen and touch pad, which will place all the components together and in doing so make for a slimmer screen. This will trim the body by over 1mm according to analysts. The device will also come with a metal back, which will be slimmer and also stronger than the glass back of the original.

Connections

There is rumoured to be a change in where the connection jack is, which will be obvious when people compare phones. The number of pins in the charging socket is said to have fallen to 8 pins for a full 19 and this will also mean a change in the speaker dock settings, which may annoy those with existing docks - do expect a flurry of adaptors however.

Battery size is also larger, though this will probably offer the same return as the original, which is around the same for phone deals of this premium range.

Wireless

There are also a number of rumours about a nano sim which would offer cellular connectivity, this might be one of the more talked about changes in the phone and there are supposed photos to prove its inclusion.

Other improvements come in connection speeds with improved HSPDA and 4G/ LTE added to the device. This means it is possible to connect to the net at a speed of 72mbps. This is a notable speed increase, though UK network providers don't currently have 4G networks at the moment. It will no doubt soon be included in phone deals across the country as it currently is being in America and elsewhere.

Though, we're not too sure of what to expect completely these look like the most likely rumours in Apple land about the device - now if only we were sure of the release date.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Article is written by Cormac Reynolds at www. MobilePhoneDeals.ie which lists and compares mobile phone deals and mobile broadband deals in Ireland. Compare O2 Mobile Phones, Vodafone Mobile Deals, Meteor.ie Mobile Phones and Three.ie Deals. Visit http://www.MobilePhoneDeals.ie for more information. Copyright information. This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included.