Swirl marks are the bane of car owners and car enthusiasts alike. They make even the best paint job ugly quick! Read on to find out what the normal cause for these swirl marks are. Also learn how to avoid them to give your car the best finish for as long as possible.
Dirty Cleaning Cloths
Surprisingly the number one cause of swirl marks on your car paint is dirty cleaning cloths. This includes filthy chamois, dirty terry cloth towels and cheap micro fiber fabrics. Often to save money people use old clothes or towels to clean their cars. This leads to swirl marks appearing on your car sometimes as soon as your dirty fabric touches the paint!
Remove this risk by cleaning your cloths before and after using them. Also you can use 100% cotton towels that haven’t worn down too much. As for chamois towels try to use them by tapping them into wet areas instead of wiping the car with it.
Car Dusters
Car dusters have gone the way of the dinosaur. Old car dusters with feathers for cleaning your paint were very harsh on dark clear coat painted cars. However newer products that feature waxed cotton strands do a much better job.
However they still cause much damage because most people do not follow directions on applying zero pressure to them while they glide across the surface of the car. Another swirl causing habit is using dusters on cars which are too dirty. The effect is that the duster is met with particles way bigger than dust particles that get dragged along the surface.
Washing Improperly
Not enough people wash their cars properly. They often just dip their washing mitts on a pail of detergent and start scrubbing away. This habit destroys the paint and destroys it fast. The proper way to wash so avoid getting swirl marks is to hose down the car first with water to loosen large particles that may otherwise mar the surface when shampooing it.
After shampooing it is also best to hose it down again before drying it to make sure that the particles removed by the shampoo are taken away from the car. A film of water from a bucket is also a great way for the water to remove particles that were not removed from the first hose down.
Filthy Car Covers
Car covers meant to protect cars often are the cause of swirl marks. This is because car covers are seldom cleaned. Most are just tucked neatly with all sorts of mold and mildew growing on them. As soon as cars get under the covers they rubbed against the particles trapped on the car covers inside.
Without proper maintenance car covers will damage your paint more than it will protect it.
Improper Use of Strong Polishing Compounds
Polishing a car should be a rarely done activity. As polishing is an abrasive process it eats up precious clear coat that protects your cars paint. Because of the abundance of polishing compounds on the market most people think that they need to polish their cars as often as they wax it.
Polishing compounds with strong abrasives will eat up your paint fast if done more than twice a year. To be safe try to use it only once a year. A properly cleaned and waxed car will not need to be polished more than that.
Conclusion
Swirl marks are easy to get and hard to remove. It is important to realize that sooner or later any car will get swirl marks. Your job as a car owner is to avoid getting them fast. Some cars get swirl marks five days after they roll out the dealership. While others which are well taken cared off don’t get swirl marks well into their fifth year.
Avoiding the five causes of swirl marks above will give you a swirl free car for years to come.
Smart televisions are expected to be showcased everywhere at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show. Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, LG and Visio will all launch Smart TVs that enable viewers to search and find video content on the web, on local cable or satellite and locally stored hard drive content. Will Smart TVs have the same impact as 3D TVs did in 2010; lots of buzz but few buys?
3d tv showed such promise. In the 2010 Asia Pacific Pay TV Operators Survey by GIA and Content Asia for example, Pay TV operators were relatively enthusiastic about the new television format.
Early entrants into the 3D TV space include some big players. Few other than Panasonic and Sony have rushed to bring 3D TVs to the market while LCD panel makers like AUO or LG have not been investing heavily in 3D TV technologies.
A lack of good content has been the bane of the sector. In China for instance, Disney Interactive Media Group (China) and 3D Gaming (Hangzhou) released their first product in January 2010. Sadly, aside from a few movies and some sporting events, it lacked a lot of content.
Currently there are 2 types of 3D content, converted 3D and Native 3D. Converted 3D movies are 2D movies that are converted to 3D images in postproduction. Native 3D movies are filmed using new 3D camera rigs manufactured by a few innovative players such as PACE and Sony. In an effort to release as many 3D movies as possible, Hollywood has been utilizing the easier method of converted 3D. Filming in Native 3D is challenging. Not only is the new production equipment expensive, but the necessary talent to shoot and edit Native 3D films scarce. This has therefore limited the speed at which 3D films are being shot and produced.
3D TVs just have not brought consumers into stores. The Consumer Electronics Association in September 2010, cut its forecast for shipments of 3D TVs to the US in half, from its July estimate of 2.1 million units to 1.1 million units for 2010.
Why have 3D TVs not lived up to expectations in terms of consumer sales? GIA analysis identifies several reasons.
Why consumers haven’t been thrilled with 3D TVs
The first problem was timing; Consumers upgraded to newer larger LCD and Plasma TVs in droves in the period between 2007 and 2008, meaning that few are looking to replace them any time soon. The weak economies and consumer sentiment of mature economies in 2010 did not help drive sales of 3D TVs either.
Secondly, 3D TVs were released a little too early before the mass availability of 3D content. For the 2010 Christmas season, only 36 3D Blu-ray titles will be available for purchase, with the majority being conversions into 3D rather than true 3D productions like Avatar. In terms of television, channels such as Discovery channel, DirectTV in the US and Sky in the UK have been investing in 3D TV content. There is however, still a lack of supply to drive consumers to invest upfront for a 3D TV.
There have also been disputes over eye health issues. In June 2010, Samsung released health warnings on its Australian website, saying that consumes could suffer stroke or dizziness by watching 3D TV for a long time or hurt their eyes by watching 3D TV too closely or by wearing 3D glasses outdoors.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) is another factor. Even though 3D TVs are reasonably priced, when compared to equivalent sized 2D models, TOC can be high for a family. Smaller 40″ models impede on the 3D viewing experience, while the larger 65″ models are priced at over $6,000. Added to that will be the cost of active-shutter 3D glasses that cost an addition $100 to $200 per pair.
It is also important to note the different viewer experiences with 3D movie theatres and 3D TVs. In the home 3D experience, screens are much smaller. Even with the largest 65″ screens, the action is usually cut off on each side within a viewer’s line of sight. Moreover, television viewing at home tends to be a group activity that is interactive and engaging. 3D glasses limit the ability to interact with others in the room; those not wearing 3D glasses cannot participate in the movie screening on the same level.
Another factor affecting the current uptake of 3D TVs is the future of 3D TV development. Currently, many TV manufactures are working on new glass-less 3D technologies. In October 2010, Toshiba released the first glass-less LCD 3D TV and industry insiders predict that all 3D TVs will be glass-less by 2015. Consumers may also be putting off their purchases for this reason.
Will Smart TVs have the same impact as 3D TVs did in 2010; lots of buzz but few buys?
Smart TVs – the smarter consumer choice?
Smart TVs can be thought of as larger iPhones or mounted Tablet PCs. They are another mode of accessing content for entertainment and an extension of technology consumers are already familiar with. Many Smart TVs utilize proven platforms such as iTunes, Google’s Android platform or Samsung’s Apps Store for accessing content.
Neilson research estimates that one in two adults in the US will own a smart phone by Christmas 2011 and Citigroup predicted that 35 million tablets will be shipped globally in 2011, while FBR Capital Markets estimate sales of 70 million tablets globally next year. Essentially by the end of 2011, most consumers will be familiar with utilizing Apps to access content and expecting to access high quality content on a mobile device.
The pricing models for content over Smart TVs are likely to also follow those of smartphone content purchases, with the majority of content priced between $0.99 and $4.99. Alternatively, many all-you-can download packages are being offered to compete with Netflix and HULU or even existing cable packages. The new model of TV content delivery will be very much user-driven as consumers “buy what they want, when they want”.
As with all radical product innovations, the early adopter groups for products such as 3D TVs or Smart TVs can be very different. However, the greater diversity of Smart TV applications and content could drive adoption more rapidly.
The race for Smart TV content
Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, LG and Visio will all launch Smart TVs that will enable viewers to search and find video content on the web, on local cable or satellite and locally stored hard drive content. Samsung is predicting sales of 6.5 million Smart TVs in the US by the end of 2010 and anticipates demand will grow to 20 million units by 2012.
TV networks like CBS and NBC are streaming content on their websites and via advertising-supported websites such as HULU. Netflix, a provider of older movies in streaming video format with 16.9 million subscribers as of September 2010, is in talks with studios to gain access to primetime TV shows, offering to pay $70,000 to $100,000 per episode. Even Walmart is entering the online content market space. The multinational retail chain purchased VUDO in February 2010, allowing users to purchase content via a pay-as-you-go model where users can stream content on their home TVs. Amazon is also considering how to grow their share of the online video market, with plans to launch a subscription service to compete with HULU and Netflix.
Both Apple and Google are leveraging their existing experience with smartphone consumers to move into the living room. Apple TV has already formed partnership agreements with Fox, ABC and Netflix, while Google TV’s recent partnership with Sony sees it working with Android apps developers as well as CNN, HBO, TNT, Netflix and Amazon video to develop content.
In the final analysis, it is not hard to predict that adoption of Smart TV technologies is likely to outpace that of 3D TV.
The real winners at the end of the day could be boxes that combine both technologies. Many new, high-end models that offer 3D graphics typically come with smart web features as well. One example is Samsung’s flagship 55′ 7000 series that come with a suite of pre-embedded ‘smart’ applications and widgets such as Hulu, Facebook and Twitter feeds.
This is certainly a battle worth watching closely over the next few months, as market entrants jostle for the best positions. What will be the best line of attack for hardware manufacturers; Samsung’s integrated or Sony’s outsourced approach? Which will be the favored software platforms; Google TV or Apple TV? Who will come out the stronger players; set-up box manufacturers such as Boxee Box or web browsers such as Opera TV? Stay tuned for the results!
Francine Buchanan, Director, Intelligence Services, Global Intelligence Alliance
The prospect of serious wealth generation is surreptitiously foiled by inflation, which can be defined as a sort of malicious tax levied stealthily by the government. Fiat money is generated out of thin air and the amount of money increases in circulation. As the money supply grows, the dollars bid and compete for the goods and services even more resulting in the spiraling of the general prices. This relentless monetary inflation does hit the poor but the investors with sizable capital at their disposal are not effectually shattered.
For an investor, the investment capital is generated from savings. He needs to consume less than his earnings. But recurrent inflation does manage to pose a dire threat to this hard earned investment capital. As it fiercely erodes the purchasing power, it radically alters the ultimate return too. He has to keep an eye on the net gain of his purchasing power and it must always be positive.
It makes sense for the investor to place his money in the stock market where the company deals with commodities. They should concentrate more on the real returns, which means, inflation adjusted returns, instead of the usual nominal ones. The commodity investors know exactly the market curve of the key commodities like gold or oil which is traded in real terms. It secures their investment portfolio. But in a situation where the investor earns say 100% when there is a rise in the price level by 50%, the investor’s perceived 50% gain is but an illusion. The nominal numbers gathered over years are meaningless. The true gains are calculated on the raw purchasing power are considered relevant.
Inflation has a monumental effect on the stock investors who are desperate to multiply their scant and valued capital. When the market runs in the bear phase, inflation accelerates real losses and it also retards real gains during the bull phase. Since stock investment is not immune from the bane of inflation, only long term return, regardless of the market origin, in real terms, should be the only concern of the investor. He can beat the inflation by riding on the perpetual bull. A bull market is always existent somewhere. It has been observed that when the stocks happen to be in the bearish phase of their long cycle, the commodities are found to be in their bullish phase, and vice versa. The commodity markets actually tend to move totally out of phase with stocks.
What’s the perennial question that a good half of all artists face?
It’s not a lack of inspiration, or the money to sustain oneself. From our survey, It seems that its simply – How do I get noticed?
We realised that a good third of artists (convenient sample group of 50 Asian artists) were not in it get noticed. Their art is for themselves, it’s a journal, it’s their research and thinking put on canvas. It makes them happy. They have no interest in showing or selling it.
A good half that responded wanted to show it to friends and family. Their art was a commentary of their observations about themselves or their surroundings. Surely, they are happy if someone recognised their work by commenting or as an ultimate compliment – to buy it from them.
If you’re an artist, you’re taking a big risk in opening your artwork to the public, but the rewards – a good comment, an offer to get represented and recognised, means a lot. As artists ourselves, we understand this.
However, we also realise that beyond your immediate relatives, it’s hard to get appreciating eyeballs on your work. Hence, we’ve put together these 5 quick tips on how you can get your art out there.
1. Start Writing and Publishing
Why write? Isn’t everything you need on the art itself? We cannot emphasise the importance in putting your ideas in writing. While you may wish to leave your viewers to interpret your work themselves, writing (giving a good artist statement) provides viewers with a stepping stone to appreciating the finer details of your work. If you do not wish to put your artwork explicitly on paper, it’s always good practice to give hints on what you’re trying to say or portray.
In a short attention span world, giving good artist statements helps retain the viewer’s interest in your work.
2. Attend Events
The bane of most artists we spoke to, attending openings and exhibitions are usually the last thing on your mind. We wouldn’t encourage networking if you prefer to focus on your art. But, art dealers and gallery owners usually attend such events and its always good to drop them a name card. Well, some of the most successful artists out there (in terms of sales) are also good business people.
3. Knock on Doors
Many artists out there approach galleries themselves. This is a viable option, but it’s always good to show up prepared. A simple picture of your artwork, its details and an artist statement will do the trick. If you don’t think you can put a professional looking portfolio, you may also consider looking for an online art platform such as Artyii or Etsy that does this for you. All you need to do is to send galleries your link and viola!
4. Attract Publicity
Do something crazy. We wouldn’t recommend this unless you are absolutely sure of the artistic value in your work. Many artists attempt to shock and gain some publicity via the newspapers or bloggers. Putting controversial elements in your work, blowing it up elaborately and working on installations in public places are methods that some artists use. We encourage this – it challenges peoples’ perceptions, breaks them out of their routine lives and you may just change the life views of the layman in the process.
5. Go Online
This is your best bet. It’s the most convenient, cost effective and if done on the correct website, can bring you at least 100 views a day from around the world. You could create your own blog, but its effectiveness is limited due to the millions of other art blogs out there fighting for attention.
Many people today and it’s a good idea that you could put your artwork or on a platform dedicated to art sales. You may be just one other artist on the platform, but the arts focused traffic such platforms provide are more likely to sieve your work out, especially if Point 1 is done right!
Galleries and other art professional frequent such sites as well, giving you opportunities to get noticed and properly represented. Why approach others when they can approach you?
E-mail marketing has turned viral, and because of this, has become somewhat of a bane to the average e-mail user. The word viral is no misnomer, either, as millions and millions of SPAM based advertisements spread the internet looking for hosts to lock onto with hook, tooth and claw.
There are, however, techniques to guide the online marketer. Tips dripping with decorum and scruples, so much so, that it leads to potential business actually asking for your advertisements to be sent their way. We all know the feeling of frustration that comes about with an inbox full of unwanted adverts for unwanted products. Use these five tips wisely, however, and you could soon have a database full of e-mail addresses that would gladly welcome all your marketing endeavors.
Be Persistent
The shear nature of society today is that of being bombarded by relentless and innumerable sources of information.
Your e-mails disclosing your intent can easily be overlooked, deleted. Statistics on the matter state that it should take around 20- 30 imprints of a certain concept or logo before the average working person absorbs what information is available. Be persistent in your marketing ploy, without causing frustration or irritation.
Use More Text
Animated e-mails with clever flash and colorful logos get sent to the deleted items folder faster than any other. With new and improved filters spawning by the hour, there is no guarantee that the full message of your advert will reach the intended destination. Lose the flash and increase the text. Your message will load faster and with content that is well-written and to the point, your text should be able to sell your product better than any flashy e-mail ever could, and it will slip through the filters with ease.
Stop Sending at the right Time
If your recipients stop replying there is a good chance they no longer want to receive your e-mails.
You need to re-establish your relationship before you send them any more of your messages. Just as you would stop if they requested a removal from your mailing list, the ethical thing would be to hold the mailing until you’ve established whether they want you to continue or not. It could be the mere matter of them not getting your messages but if they no longer want to do business with you, re-evaluate your relationship but respect the wishes of the client.
Ask Permission
E-mail has quickly established itself as one of the most personal forms of advertising out there, and because of this deep personal nature, the client must, at all times, be respected. Without obtaining adequate permission you run the risk of SPAM penalties and could even be banned outright with most destinations blocking your content due to your online reputation. The main downside, though, is the fact that you destroy relationships and effectively shoot yourself in the foot when it comes to certain important customer relations.
Make your Message worth Reading
As previously stated, your client will be receiving content from an uncountable number of sources. You need to make sure that your content, promoting your business, makes the most impact. Special offers, catalogues, information on specials and even coupons for special reductions and freebies, all make your message standout and most likely the one your client is going to take the time out of his or her busy day, to read.
Utilize the power of e-mail as a valuable marketing tool. If done with decorum and a touch of smarts, your company could be the antidote to the virus of SPAM and e-mail marketing bombardment. Make sure you’re not just another e-mail advert, create a signature style that your client will recognize as quality and watch as your clientele address book grows.