| How to Build a Lamp Posted: 22 Sep 2016 05:00 PM PDT Got an odd piece that you want to display, but aren't sure what to do with it? How about making a lamp? You can make lamps out of almost anything, and they provide décor and ambience, in addition to making great conversation pieces. If your craftsy side is feeling neglected and you want to spark it back into action, here's a perfect project for you. EditPreparation - Find a base. The base for your lamp should be sturdy enough to stand on its own, even after you add lamp apparatus and a shade on top. If you have a hollow base that you need to stabilize, consider partially filling it with something like marbles or sand. Some ideas for lamp bases that you could use:
- Wine bottles
- Log or timber
- Wooden pails or buckets
- Toys or figurines
- Hollowed-out books
- Buy a lamp kit. These can be found at most hardware stores. Note that it's possible to purchase the pieces separately, but buying them together will ensure a better fit. If you do buy the cord separately, choose a #18 size cord.
- If you don't want to buy a lamp kit, and instead want to purchase the items separately, you'll need:
- Detachable harp
- Cord set
- Push-through socket and socket shell
- Finial
- Assorted hardware, like nuts, bolts and washers
- Prepare the base for the rod. The rod is a hollow tube that will run the cord up through the bottom of your base to the lightbulb at the top. Depending on your base, you may have to drill or cut holes wide enough for the rod at the top and bottom of the lamp.
- If necessary, you can trim the rod with a hacksaw or pipe cutters, but it's best (and easier) to choose a base that's fitted to your rod. Sawing your rod down to size is not ideal.
- Stabilize the bottom of the base. Your lamp kit might come with a piece meant to stabilize the bottom of your base. If it doesn't, simply purchase rubber stoppers. Affix these at intervals around the base to prevent sliding and lift the base slightly off the table, allowing room for the cord.
- Thread the cord through the rod. The cord should consist of two covered wires stuck together. Thread it through the rod from bottom to top, leaving 3 or 4 inches (7 to 10 cm) of cord about the base.
- Before threading, tape the wire ends together so that they fit smoothly inside the rod.
- When doing this, make sure that the bottom of the plug doesn't rub against the rod's sharp edge.
- Screw the lock nut onto the end of the lamp rod. Make sure your cords are threaded to where you want them first.
- Screw the neck onto the lamp rod (optional). Your lamp kit may or may not come with a flat, broad "neck" piece or a rubber stopper to add to the lamp rod.
- Add the harp bottom. Screw the harp bottom onto the lamp rod, arms facing upward. This will be the base for the rest of the harp.
- Screw on the socket cap. Put the bowl-shaped socket cap on top of the harp bottom, open end up. Secure tightly.
- Strip the wires. Pull the two covered wires at the top of the cord apart, separating about 4 inches (10 cm) down the cord. Using wire strippers or a knife, remove the insulation from the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the cords.
- Tie the wires. Tie the wires into an underwriter's knot, which looks like a pretzel. Doing this will prevent the wires from falling through the rod to the base. To tie an underwriter's knot:
- Bring the left wire down so that it's facing to the right, in front of the doubled wiring.
- Bring the right wire down so that it's facing to the left, in back of the doubled wiring.
- Put the right wire into the loop on the left side.
- Pull the ends of both wires tight, fastening the knot.
EditFinalization - Find the hot wire and the neutral wire. Usually, the neutral wire will be surrounded by ribbed insulation. If you're unsure, refer to the instructions that came with your lamp kit.
- If the wires have two colors at all, the white is the neutral wire and the black is the hot wire.[1]
- Wrap the wires around the screws on the bulb socket. The bulb socket in the lamp kit should have two screws of different colors positioned at the base. Wrap the neutral wire clockwise around the silver (or white) screw, and the hot wire clockwise around the gold (or dark) screw. If you're unsure, check the manual that came with your lamp kit. Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws down over the wires.
- Put the socket shell over the bulb socket. Line it up so that the slot coming up from the bottom of the socket shell aligns with the switch on the bulb socket. Tuck the cords inside so that they won't be visible, and push down the socket shell until it locks into place.
- Attach the top of the harp. Squeeze the sides of the harp as you slide them into the slots on the harp bottom.
- Place your lampshade on top of the harp. Once it's secure, twist down the locknut to secure it.
- Screw a lightbulb into the socket, and plug in your lamp.
- If you don't wish to run a rod through your lamp base, sockets are available that allow the lamp cord to come through the bottom part of the socket shell.
- Reassemble both the plug and the socket as necessary, making sure there is no excess wire sticking out that can short to the other conductor. If any of the wires from one conductor touch the other conductor, you will have a "short," which can shock you or cause a fire.
- Standard lamps are drilled down the centre to take the wire. At home this can be best achieved by using 3 wooden rods, such as broom handles glued together in a triangle. This automatically leaves a space down the centre. Alternatively, you could use a metal tube, but take care with metal and electricity.
- Ensure that decorative items or wires are not too close to the lightbulb. Always leave spacing from the light bulb and other materials which can cause burning and damaging.
- Keep in mind that wiring electrical circuits carries some risk. If the wiring is not correct, you can be shocked or electrocuted or the device can cause a fire. If you are unsure of what you are doing, you may want to prepare the object you want to make a lamp out of for wiring (the mount, the passageways for the wire, the lamp socket and shade mounting) and let someone more skilled in electrical wiring actually wire up the lamp.
- Always unplug the lamp before working with the wires. Do not plug in the lamp until you're finished building it.
EditThings You'll Need - Lamp making kit
- Base
- Shade
- Screwdriver
- Wire strippers (or knife)
- Drill (optional)
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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| How to Ease the Symptoms of Spongiotic Dermatitis Posted: 22 Sep 2016 09:00 AM PDT Spongiotic dermatitis is a skin condition that is generally considered a form of acute eczema.[1] While this form of dermatitis is often painful, it is relatively easy to prevent and treat. Once you have a medical diagnosis of spongiotic dermatitis, you can use home remedies and medical intervention to treat the condition as necessary. EditGetting Diagnosed and Identifying Symptoms - Get diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis, it's important to get diagnosed with the condition by a medical doctor. She will help you take steps to treat the condition either through prevention and home remedies or medication.
- Identify the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. The symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis vary widely from person to person, but there are some general signs you can look for to help identify the condition. Knowing these signs may make it easier to relieve your symptoms at home. Typical symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis include:[2]
- severe itching, especially at night
- red to brownish-gray patches on the skin
- small, raised bumps that may contain fluid and crust over when scratched
- thickened, cracked, dry, and scaly skin
- raw, sensitive, and swollen skin that occurs as a result of scratching
- The most common place for spongiotic dermatitis to occur is on the chest, stomach, and buttocks. It can spread from these areas to other parts of the body.[3]
- Be aware of possible irritants and risk factors. There are some irritants and risk factors that can make you more prone to a flare-up of spongiotic dermatitis. Being aware of these will help you take the proper steps to prevent the condition.
- Working with metals such as nickel, solvents, or cleaning supplies, can increase your risk of spongiotic dermatitis.[4]
- Certain health conditions including congestive heart failure, Parkinson's disease, and HIV/AIDS can also make you more prone to spongiotic dermatitis.[5]
- Spongiotic dermatitis can flare up if you have sensitive skin and/ or use very harsh and strong soaps that can cause an allergic reaction on the skin.
EditUsing Home Remedies - Identify what triggers your spongiotic dermatitis. This skin condition often flares up because of a specific irritant. Knowing what triggers your spongiotic dermatitis can help you prevent and relieve it.
- The trigger could be an allergen, food allergy, cosmetic, environmental factor, insect bite, or harsh soap or detergent.
- If you suspect a specific trigger, try to limit your exposure to it and see if it relieves your symptoms.
- Certain external factors can worsen spongiotic dermatitis including dry skin from taking baths or showers that are too hot, stress, sweat, wearing wool, exposure to tobacco smoke and pollution.[6]
- Certain foods can also worsen spongiotic dermatitis including eggs, milk, peanuts, soybeans, fish, and wheat.[7]
- Use mild or "hypoallergenic" soaps and laundry detergents. These contain fewer harmful chemicals that can irritate your skin. Rinse clothes twice after washing to ensure that the detergent is well removed.
- Any product marked "hypoallergenic" has been tested for sensitive skin and will likely not irritate your skin.
- Don't scratch. No matter what treatment you seek for spongiotic dermatitis, do not scratch the patches on your skin. Scratching the rash can open any sores you may have and cause further problems, including infection.[8]
- If you cannot avoid scratching the irritated areas, occasionally apply bandages to any areas seriously affected by spongiotic dermatitis. This will limit exposure to irritants and keep you from scratching.[9] Do not cover the areas frequently, as this may actually cause more irritation.
- Keep your skin well hydrated to reduce irritation. Maintaining your skin's natural hydration will prevent dryness and help prevent further irritation. You can help keep your skin hydrated by different means including moisturizing, avoiding temperature extremes, and using a humidifier.[10]
 - Use a gentle cleanser made for sensitive skin when you bathe or shower. Recommended choices include Dove, Aveeno, and Cetaphil. Don't use overly hot water, as this can dry out and irritate skin.
- Apply moisturizer to your skin at least twice a day. The best time to apply is after a shower or bath while your skin is still damp. Later in the day, consider using an oil to moisturize your skin.[11]
- Make sure to use unscented and uncolored moisturizers that will not irritate your skin.[12] If you aren't sure what moisturizer is best for your skin, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Use creams or ointments, as they are usually thicker and more effective than lotions, and they're usually less irritating to the skin.
- Taking a 10-15 minute bath in warm water sprinkled with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal will help your skin stay moisturized. Make sure to moisturize your skin with a cream or oil after the bath.[13]
- Keeping a humidifier in your home will ensure that the air is moist and won't dry out your skin.[14]
- Avoid temperature extremes, which can dry out skin.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water. Making sure that you drink enough water will help your skin stay hydrated as well. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to help your skin retain previous moisture and prevent dehydration.[15]
- Apply a cold compress to relieve itching and inflammation. The itching and inflammation from spongiotic dermatitis comes from histamine in your blood. Cold packs or compresses can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with spongiotic dermatitis by constricting blood flow and cooling the skin.[16]
- Histamine is produced when an allergen enters in the body. It is involved in all of the symptoms of allergic reactions, including itching and inflammation.
- You can place a cold compress on your rashes intermittently for 10 to 15 minutes, once every 2 hours or as needed.[17]
- Protect your skin. You can prevent and relieve spongiotic dermatitis by protecting your skin. Clothing, bandages, and even bug spray will protect your skin.
- Wear cool, loose, smooth textured clothing such as cotton or silk to keep yourself from scratching and prevent excess sweating.[18] Do not wear wool, as it can irritate your skin.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to keep yourself from scratching your skin and protect it from external irritants.[19]
- You can also apply bug repellant to areas that do not have rashes when you go outside where you are at risk of being bitten. This will prevent insects from getting too close to your skin and causing further allergic reactions.
- Apply calamine lotion or anti-itch cream. Applying a calamine lotion or non-prescription anti-itch cream can relieve the symptoms of spongiotic dermatitis. You can purchase these creams at grocery and drug stores both in-store and online.
- A nonprescription anti-itch, or hydrocortisone, cream, can help relieve itching. Make sure to purchase a cream with at least 1% hydrocortisone.
- Apply these creams to the affected area before you moisturize your skin.[20]
- Follow the specific product instructions for how often you can use the cream on your skin.
- Take over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce your inflammation and itching. These drugs will block the histamine that causes allergic reactions and help relieve itching and skin inflammation. There are many different over the counter antihistamines that are available at drug and grocery stores both in store and online. Before taking any new medications, consult with your doctor, as some may interact with other medical conditions or current medications.
- Chlorpheniramine is available in 2mg and 4mg tablets. Adults can take 4mg every 4 to 6 hours. Don't exceed 24mg per day.
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is available in 25mg and 50mg tablets. Adults can take 25mg every 6 hours. Don't exceed 300mg per day.
- Ceterizine (Zyrtec) is available in 5mg and 10mg tablets. Adults can take up to 10mg every 24 hours.
- These drugs often have sedative effects so do not drive, drink alcohol, or operate any machinery when taking them.
- If you are treating a child, consult your doctor or pharmacist for appropriate dosages.
- Use over the counter corticosteroid creams to help reduce itching and inflammation. Corticosteroid creams can reduce inflammation, thereby reducing itching and scratching. They should be applied once a day on the affected area.
- You are advised to apply the cream in the morning after showering so that it stays on throughout the whole day.
- An example of a corticosteroid cream is 1% hydrocortisone cream.
EditGetting Medical Assistance - Visit your doctor if your condition worsens. If your blisters and rash don't go away after a week, or you become very uncomfortable, see your doctor. The doctor may prescribe oral medications, steroid creams, or light therapy to treat your spongiotic dermatitis.
- See your doctor if: you're so uncomfortable that it disrupts your sleep or ability to function daily, your skin is painful, self-care and home remedies haven't worked, or you suspect your skin is infected.[21]
- Use light therapy. A doctor may prescribe phototherapy (light therapy) to help heal spongiotic dermatitis. This very effective treatment can be as simple as limited sun exposure or may use artificial light, but it does not come without risks.[22]
- Phototherapy exposes the skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) and narrow band UVB. This treatment can be used alone with in conjunction with medications.[23]
- Light exposure increases your risk for premature aging and skin cancer.[24]
- Use prescription corticosteroids. If the itching or rash is not relieved by applying an over the counter topical corticosteroid, your doctor may prescribe either a stronger topical or oral corticosteroid such as prednisone.[25]
- Oral steroids and strong topical steroids can have serious side effects when used long term. Follow your doctor's instructions and don't use these medications for longer than advised.[26]
- Continue to moisturize your skin while using oral and topical corticosteroids. Not only will they keep your skin hydrated, but they will help prevent flare-ups when you discontinue use of the steroids.[27]
- Get an antibiotic prescribed to combat infection. In case your blisters or rash area is infected, you can get an antibiotic to help make sure you remain healthy. Talk to your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus.
- The type of antibiotic your doctor prescribes may vary. Common antibiotics include erythromycin, penicillin, dicloxacillin, clindamycin, or doxycycline.[28]
- Use a calcineurin inhibitor cream to help repair the skin. When no other treatment works, get a calcineurin inhibitor cream that will help repair your skin. These drugs, which include tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, will help maintain normal skin, control itching, and reduce flares of spongiotic dermatitis.
- Calcineurin inhibitors directly affect the immune system and come with potential side effects including kidney problems, high blood pressure and headaches. Serious but rare side effects include an increased risk of certain cancers.[29]
- These drugs are prescribed only when other treatments have failed and are approved for most people over the age of 2.[30]
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Transfer Files Between Laptops Posted: 22 Sep 2016 01:00 AM PDT Moving your data from one laptop to another doesn't have to be a huge headache - there are several methods for quickly transferring digital data. The number and size of the files you're wanting moved, the types of laptops you are transferring between, and your own technical confidence will help determine which method is the best fit for you. EditSetting Up an SMB Transfer - Ensure both computers are on same network. A Server Message Block (SMB) is a protocol (set of rules) for transferring files between computers over the internet. The laptops can be either PCs or Macs (or a combination) for this method to work. This is the easiest and fastest method for large scale file transfer between laptops.
- Use only a secure connection - don't try this over a public network.
- Make sure to password-protect your user profiles on both computers for extra security.
- Your server laptop is the one with the files, the client laptop is the one you want to transfer the files to.
- Set up your server laptop. The server computer is the one currently holding the files you want to transfer. You'll need to change the network settings by designating a workgroup name. This workgroup will act like a conference room where your two computers will meet. The name for the workgroup can be anything you decide.
- In Windows OS, choose a workgroup name through "computer domain and workgroup settings". Applying this change will trigger a restart for your PC.
- On a Mac, choose a workgroup name through System Preferences->Network->Advanced->WINS. Choose your workgroup name and apply the changes.[1]
- In either case, make a mental note of the "name" of the the server computer.
- Switch to the client laptop. Go through the same network workgroup setup process on your client computer. Make sure to use the exact same workgroup name as you did with your server computer.[2]
- Access the files and begin the transfer. Now it's time to begin moving your files. Look for the "name" of the server laptop and click into it to access all shared folders from that laptop.
- In Windows, open your "Network" application. All computers in the shared network workgroup should appear within a few seconds, including the server laptop you just set up.
- On a Mac, all computers in the shared network workgroup will appear in your Finder window.
EditUsing an FTP - Set up an FTP server. An FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is another handy way to transfer files between machines using only the internet. First you'll work with the server computer - the one that has the files you want to transfer - in order to make it accessible. FTP is generally best if you feel you need recurring access between your two laptops.
- On a Mac, go to System Preferences->Sharing->Services and check "FTP Access". Next click "Start" and wait for the change to apply. Note that this path may be slightly different in different versions of OSX.
- In Windows, go to Control Panel->Programs->Programs and Features->Turn Windows features on or off. Next click the plus symbol next to "Internet Information Services" (IIS), then put a check next to "FTP Server." Click "OK".
- Install an FTP client on the client computer. This is software that allows you to easily access FTP servers with only the server address or IP address. Popular ones include FileZilla, WinSCP, and Cyberduck.[3]
- Access the files on the FTP server from the FTP client. Now all you need to do is log in to the FTP server from the client computer and access your files for fast and secure transfer.
- On a Mac, go to Finder->Go->Connect to Server. You will be prompted for the server or IP address of the server computer. Enter it and click "Connect".
- In Windows, open your internet browser and type the server computer's IP address into the address bar directly. Go to File->Login As. Enter the username and password to log in.
- If you're having trouble finding your server computer's IP address, consult Find Your IP Address on a Mac or Find the IP Address of Your PC.
- For more details on the FTP method of transferring files, check out Set up an FTP Between Two Computers.
EditUsing a Storage Device - Find a compatible storage device. External hard drives and other USB flash drives are sometimes formatted to work with one operating system (OSX or Windows) only. Depending on the computers you're transferring between you may need to reformat to a more universal formatting option (FAT32) before attempting the transfer. Using a storage device is one of the slowest methods for file transfer but may be the simplest to execute if you're feeling intimidated by the more technical methods.
- If the storage device is recognized and the files are accessible on both computers, you can proceed.
- If reformatting is necessary you can find more information at Format FAT32
- The limitation of this method is typically speed, as numerous large files will take a significant amount of time to transfer in this fashion.
- Plug the storage device into the server computer. Check that you have enough space on the storage device to house all the files you'd like to transfer before beginning. Your best bet is to know in advance how much space you will need and to plan accordingly.
- Move the files to the storage device. This process will be like other file management on your laptop - simply drag and drop the files you need and wait while they are fully transferred to the storage device.
- Eject the drive and connect to the client laptop. Make sure to disconnect properly to avoid damaging the files, then drag and drop to the client laptop's desktop or another more appropriate location.
EditTransferring Via the Cloud - Choose a cloud storage service. Companies like Dropbox, Google Drive and many others offer cloud storage for your most important files and can also act as an effective file transfer method between laptops. You'll need an account with one of these providers (initial membership and some storage space is typically free).[4]
- The limitations to this method will be storage space, upload time, and potential cost - however if you need to move smaller files on a more frequently basis this may be a great solution for you.
- Move your files into the cloud. Depending on the service this may be as simple as dragging and dropping the files to your open internet browser, or could involve a more formal file upload procedure. Wait while the cloud service uploads your files in full.
- Access your cloud account from the client computer. Download the files you want to this laptop and the transfer is complete!
- Cloud services also provide extra security through consistent file backup and the possibility of collaborative file editing, so getting to know cloud storage may be a smart move for you regardless!
EditConnecting Directly with Firewire - Check the compatibility of your laptops. Both laptops will require a firewire input and you will need an appropriate firewire cord to connect them.
- This method makes the most sense if you are transferring between either two Macs or two PCs. If instead you are transferring between operating systems then look into a different method.
- Plug in both ends of the firewire. Firewire plugs take a few different forms - double check you have the right cord and appropriate adaptors to fit both of your laptops before beginning.
- Access the server computer through the client computer. Use the client laptop (the one you want files transferred to) to find and access the server laptop (the one with the files). Once connected it should appear on the desktop or else where external drives normally appear.
- Drag and drop files as normal. Now that your laptops are directly connected you can shift files as needed, similar to any other file management on your computer.
EditEmailing Attachments to Yourself - Set the receiver of the email as your own email address. Emailing yourself can be a quick and simple way to send one or two smaller-sized files to a different computer, for anything more try one of the other methods.
- Attach files to the email. Different email clients (e..g gmail, hotmail, yahoo) have different attachment size limitations. Some allow you to drag and drop files directly to the email body while others require you to click "attach" and then browse your computer's file trees.
- Log into your email on the client computer. Now download the attachment.
EditUsing Crossover Cable - You can set up a network between 2 PCs directly without access point
- You have to use a crossover ethernet cable
- Set up the IP addresses and subnet mask to be with the same network
- Share a folder on one PC
- Copy files from the other PC to the shared folder
- For larger-scale file transfers, consider using methods 1 or 2 (smb or FTP)
- For security reasons don't attempt file transfers via unsecured public networks
EditThings You'll Need - 2 laptops
- A secure (private) network connection
- Firewire cable
- External hard drive or other USB drive formatted to work with both laptops
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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