IT is now common to download music from the internet. But figures released last week show we are increasingly illegally downloading our favourite television programmes and films as well, particularly from America, where episodes are often broadcast months before they are shown over here.
However, there are a lot of good legal video downloads out there for computer users. Even the BBC is in favour of the idea, and is currently testing its own software that will let internet users download programmes they have missed, and even see episodes of popular programmes such as EastEnders before they are broadcast.
If you want to download from the internet at present, the quality varies wildly and you need to be be careful of copyright. The best software to use for downloading videos is called BitTorrent, which you can get from http:/ bitconjurer.org/BitTorrent/ The service is free and it has fast download times; it also has software which lets you share your own video files, so if you have made a home video others can download it easily. This could be the perfect way to start your career as a film director.
Great value in the versatile iExtreme
PRICES of high street computers have been dropping all the time. Packard Bell's iExtreme PC may not be particularly stylish, but for those on a budget it is one of the best-value systems out there.
It runs the Media Centre edition of Windows which turns it into a digital video recorder, letting you record and watch TV. It is relatively easy to use and the remote control also lets you operate all the main TV and music-playing functions without having to reach for the keyboard.
Pounds 1,199, www.pcworld.com
A mobile phone with a twist NOKIA's 6260 mobile has a chunky and uninspiring design, with the exception of the screen, which you can swivel round. This may appear at first like a daft idea, but it's perfect for self-portrait photos, and the phone can also be folded with the screen face-up.
Using it is a little SANYO's XACTI C1 camera can take still and moving pictures. Its design is well thought out and it can be operated easily with one hand. It's also easy to swap between still and video modes; you can even take still pictures while recording video. The image quality is great and it's easy to get the files off the camera thanks to the supplied base station. Just plug the camera in and it will transfer everything on to your computer. As everything is stored on a memory card rather than tape, you'll get 30 minutes of high-quality video footage or an hour of VHS-like quality.
Pounds 500. For stockists call 01923 477124; www.sanyo.co.uk confusing at first, as the phone seems to have sprouted far more buttons than any other Nokia handset. But it's a handset that works well and there are no flashy features or complicated menus.
If you want something businesslike, this is a great, easy-to-use device.
Available from www.carphonewarehouse.co.uk, Pounds 49.99 depending on tariff.
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