User:Nicole LaVoie06/sandbox

Summary of Additions:

I wanted this definition to have more specificity to it, as well as a current understanding of how videospheres could be found and appreciated today. I liked the different films and art pieces that were already added to my term, but noticed there was no information about how a videosphere is operated or the historical context behind its design. After browsing the internet, I was able to find a Youtube video that provided this information concisely and even features a videosphere being used. I also looked on eBay to find any possible videoshperes for sale and gage the prices they are currently going for. My goal is for this information to provide more clarity on the operation and current state of these televisions, thereby creating a deeper appreciation for them.

Where are they today?
Today, videospheres can still be purchased, although they stopped being manufactured in the early 1980s. They are tricky to find, and sell for a price of about $300 USD. While finding one may be a challenge, getting it up and running is also not an easy task, as parts to fix and replace on videospheres are scarce. If one is found in operating condition, videospheres can still be used. While operating a videosphere is still possible, because interfaces such as HDMI were not invented when videospheres were at the height of their usage, a converter box that gives the desired inputs would also need to be purchased.

Videospheres may come in a variety of different colors, but their screen remains in a simple black and white, with dials to adjust volume, brightness, and contrast. The videosphere was also said to be influenced by the moon landing in 1969. After this took place, American culture shifted greatly to all things space themed. To operate the television, there is a main dial at the top of the sphere to control wave frequencies. Color televisions were being produced at this time, but they were costly. Therefore, the videosphere screen most likely did not come in color because making a television that small would have been too expensive. The television screen is a rectangular shape, despite being incased in a circular shell. The videosphere also has a chain handle on its top, allowing it to come off its stand and be hung from a wall or ceiling to be seen from anywhere in a room. One reason the television was so innovative was that it was designed to be portable. The videosphere came with a battery pack that is rechargeable and allows it to be played outside of a traditional home setting. Videospheres could also be powered from a voltage of electricity as low as a cigarette lighter in a car

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