There was a nanotechnology conference in 1998. I realise what some may be saying to this. Either 'What nanotechnology conference in 1998?' or 'What is nanotechnology?' or even 'So what - that was ten years ago!' At least at the time of writing this...
Well, whatever, there was such a conference in 1998 and I decided to mention it as there was a similar conference much more recent to this one in June 2003 held between members of the European Council - and so I 'smelt a rat', because frankly, I am certain that the general public at large did not know about either fixture.
Back to 1998. The specific or actual title for this event was, 'Second International conference on Integrated Micro-Nano Technology for Space Applications 1998'. The FIRST conference was apparently in 1995! Intrigued? Surprised? I certainly was. Nothing was said on U.K television at least…
One may ask, 'why write about this'? Well, this recent area of technology is of considerable importance, or at least it soon will be (especially in light of the more recent EC conference on nanotech'), due to the very 'nature' of the subject itself and what it will mean not too far from now. Though as it is already 2008, some of what follows may already be in prototype stage. This is probable fact, it is not scaremongering. But, what is Nanotechnology and Micro-technology (?), irrespective of these or any such conferences.
Each in turn, for the two disciplines, though very closely related, are not exactly the same thing - or one and the same, at least in terms of size.
Nanotechnology is concerned with the concept of 'smart' materials and even semi-autonomous machines or devices, ranging in size from something like an ANT, to near molecular dimensions - small enough to go into a hairline crack in a skirting board, or to be injected into a living host respectively. Micro-technology however, is concerned with 'things' ranging in size from that of an ant to that of a small caterpillar or millipede.
The 'infrastructure' for nanotechnology and micro-technology is already fairly established - and one of the very first (if not the first) 'micro-nano bots' was seen going across our television screens for a few brief seconds, circa 1987-88 (I forget the exact year, but remember seeing it in the late 1980's). This particular 'thing' strongly resembled, and was about the same size as one of those very small hair-clips, only on four tiny 'legs'. Some sort of 'synthesis' between a very small microprocessor and the memory-metal that it was made of, enabled it to move of its' own accord. But that was the late 80's - and this is 2008!
The 'speed' at which micro/nano-technology has developed over the last decade or more since then, is on par with the development of the microprocessor itself during the decade or so before that. Practical experiments have included 'devices' that can be placed within the smallest areas or confines, such as minute cavities in walls, or cracks in pipelines or cable-ducts (for micro-technology) - and for nanotechnology, 'devices' small enough to be implanted into a living organism - the human body for instance. The implications of this will be considerable. It is their small/minute size that makes them powerful.
Imagine an army of 'titanium-steel silverfish', or a synthetic 'germ colony' that could be controlled at will; either directly through a hand-held radio-control unit, or indirectly via a program stored on a 'remote' computer that 'instructs' the micro/nano-bots what to do (also by radio-control/telemetry).
These are currently (at the time of writing this) the limitations of nano and micro-technology. Because of the sizes involved, all-in-one 'on board' designs are not yet possible - and so they are not yet capable of fully autonomous operation. But this will undoubtedly change. It won't be long before we do have micro-controllers small enough to fit onto devices of such size (the smallest one's are in the area of 4.mm-square; although this would already fit into a micro-device the size of say a large caterpillar) - and subsequently micro-bots (if not perhaps nano-bots) that ARE fully autonomous and therefore independent of any host system. This would mean that your synthetic germ-colony could instruct itself to lie dormant for any period of time and to then 'awaken' and perform whatever at a pre-programmed date.
Various scientific institutions around the world have already created working micro-robot (and even some nano-robot) experiments, including devices that can crawl, burrow, go across or under water and even one's that can fly! These developments in both micro and nanotechnology, have drawn great interest from both public and private concerns (government departments and private corporations). This includes the 'space race' authorities that have been quick to realise (in theory at least) both the cost-saving benefits and operational benefits of such devices, especially in maintenance roles - hence the 'First International Conference on Integrated Micro-Nano Technology for Space Applications' in 1995 (!) - and subsequently the second one of 1998!!
The home-page of the website that I visited quite by chance upon a visit to Hove library in 2001 was entitled, 'NanoSpace 98 - to the planets and beyond…' subtitled - 'Call for papers.' This is the truth! I know this sounds 'unreal', but there you have it.
The overall aim of this conference was to continue the revolution in the development of space technology or hardware through a combination of nano-electronics, nano-scale disciplines and Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) for, or as the 'building-blocks' of Application Specific Integrated Micro-instruments - or ASIM's.
International experts in these fields were brought together to determine or ascertain how they could be best applied to space exploration - and to explore the various aspects (hardware, software, protocol, etc) for both unmanned and manned space missions/activities yet to come. The conference was organised by CNST - Centre for Nano Space Technologies, which is a division of the Institute for Advanced Interdisciplinary Research (IAIR) based in Houston, Texas - and was sponsored by NASA and SAIC - the Science Applications International Corporation. Yes, I know what you're thinking, but this really, really is the truth).
This conference was a serious business. It was not a bogus or superficial event. Organisations like NASA and SAIC would never have put themselves forward to the level that they did if it was. The concept of 'smart machines' that could 'investigate' anything, anywhere and operate like any 'full sized' machine, but at micro and even nano scales, was a proposition too good to miss. Because for nearly every form of full-sized robot/device, there is already a prototype equivalent at micro-technology proportions and probably will be at nano proportions relatively soon (again; micro-tech' = ant size to small caterpillar size, nano-tech' = near microscopic size to near molecular size).
For instance, a typical spot-welding robot in a car assembly plant is about five feet tall and six feet long at the armature and there is the same thing at micro-tech' scale approximately one cubic centimetre (overall occupied space). It rotates, it pivots and it welds! The average conventional submarine is forty-feet long and can enter a harbour or a large underwater cave.
There are micro-technology scale/sized submarines three centimetres long and one centimetre wide that can similarly navigate rock-pools and enter cavities in large boulders, or enter the gap between the outer and inner casings of an underwater pipeline to extract/extricate some small organism that has somehow burrowed through! In space exploration, the micro-welder could detect and repair mission-critical apparatus, whilst the 'submarine' could be used to inspect liquid carrying conduits or pipelines, such as for hydraulic equipment.
Most of this is probably hypothetical however. It is not yet certain, even by the space research/exploration people that will use the technology, precisely which micro-scale (MEMS) devices/applications, will be used for what purposes. But what is known for certain, are the specific areas that were covered at great lengths during the conference itself (in 1998).
Main objectives were disciplines for reducing systems costs, adding new capabilities and improving reliability. To identify mission applications and 'enabling technologies' for long-term goals. To hold 'workshops' for the exchange of information/procedures pertinent to space applications of these technologies.
Papers were subsequently submitted (on invitation) by those that attended the conference (many eminent scientists and experts in the fields of micro-technology and or nano-technology) on the following areas:
1. Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) for space applications.
2. Low-power micro-scale devices.
3. Procedures for data processing.
4. Memory types to be deployed or used on devices.
5. Communications standards that would have to be deployed to enable micro-scale devices - and even some nano-scale, to 'talk' to remote or 'standard' devices such as normal computers, but most importantly, to each other!
6. Applications Specific Integrated Micro-instruments (ASIM's), of which the building blocks will be nano/micro-nano scale electronics and Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS).
7. The adding-on of ASIM's to assist or support existing space-systems capabilities. 'Now this is the good one!'
8. Applications Specific Integrated Micro-instruments (ASIM's) as the building blocks for micro-scale SPACECRAFT. And it continues…
9. Operational and applications software for ASIM's.
10. Sensors for space applications.
11. Biomedical applications for human exploration of space (which basically means the idea or concept for physical interaction of nano-scale devices with human operators on space missions; presumably to help combat ailments, viruses, etc).
12. Defining precise manufacturing and packaging platforms and procedures.
13. Software considerations for design, fabrication, administration and general operations.
It is quite obvious that they wanted to take everything into account during this conference. They really, really were serious! There were three days of general presentations and a following one-and-a-half days of practical 'workshop' sessions. Those present focussed on specific conceptual and technological considerations, that led to recommendations for implementations in the future.
The actual decisions reached at, or by the end of the conference, is probably not known to anyone who was not there, as no information regarding this is mentioned on this website that I looked through. But it can be said that a great deal of something was reached. Unless this whole thing was indeed, yet another pass-the-buck, sponsorship stunt… A gravy boat for an unknown inner, inner circle. Who knows?
By pure coincidence, I came across a copy of the 'Sun' a few days after reading this article - and in it was a picture of an ANT with a microchip in its' JAWS! The newspaper was on a table in a Chinese take-away... Initially a scam involving photo-retouching software came to mind, but the article went on to explain that the article was NOT a hoax, but very, very real indeed.
The ant was of the kind found in the U.K and approx' 3.5mm long, which are a lot smaller than those found on the European continent, never mind say Africa or South America, so how small was the microchip!? At that scale/proportion, it must have been in the region of 1.5x1.5mm Square! The article stated that 100,000+ transistors were on it!!
The 'VLSI' (very large scale integration) microchip (a prototype at least) was already conceived as early as 1985-86 (although I herd 'VLSI' even a few years before that), so I totally accept what this article said and its accompanying photograph. Perhaps this microchip in the ant's jaws was the first 'VvLSI' device (very very large scale integration)? The small 'v' by the way, is because two upper-case V's look like a 'W' side by side…' Of all the things you end up discovering...
The gist of what the article said is as follows, and more than backs-up or makes credible, this 'Nano Space-98' conference.
By 2020, micro-scale and nano-scale technology will be as pervasive as current 'normal' microchip/computer technology is today. Apparently, the present (at the time of writing this) so-called pinnacle of ICCT (information, computer + communications technology) forged by the 'old-guard' of IBM, Intel & Microsoft; will become obsolete.
In 2020 a standard cell-phone will be a ring on your finger. An entire computer system of desktop/notebook capability will be a roll-out, roll-up flexi-screen, or button-sized high-resolution projector connected to a 'matchbox' in your pocket.
Smart-bugs in your veins will automatically detect infected cells and carpets will be able to change colour and depth of pile! Flying miniature video-drones moving at twenty, thirty, forty miles-an-hour and powered by the sun, will relay video evidence to the authorities (or to corporations)
A whole new industry will have been created worth £100+billion a year. The world hasn't only just got small, it's getting even smaller. And as to what this is about to begin with, micro/nano-technology in space; is that outer space or INNER space?
And why was there no mention of this conference (and what it implies) to the public at large?
Advancements,Biotechnology,Cell Phones,Communication,Electronics,Gadgets and Gizmos,GPS,Information Technology ,Video Conferencing ,VoIP
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wavefront Technology
Sounds like something surfers would be interested in, right? Not so. It is actually new technology for the world of ophthalmology.
If you've ever had your eyes checked, you'll remember that weird machine - known as a phoropter - you have to look through, telling your eye doctor which lens is better. "A or B?" "1 or 2?" And, most likely, you've had to just sort of guess at which was really better because A and B seemed pretty much the same. After all, how can you be objective when you can't see clearly?! Quite the conundrum, isn't it?
Well, thanks to wavefront technology , those old phoropters may be going the way of the Dodo bird. Basically, the wavefront system automatically measures vision problems in just a few minutes with much greater detail. This, then, allows your ophthalmologist to better prescribe lens corrections and treat any eye ailments that may be found.
What is Wavefront Technology?
Imagine a bundle of light rays with lines drawn perpendicular to the tips of those rays. Those lines make up the wavefront map. So, in a wavefront machine, for eyes with perfect vision, that map would be flat. Eyes with less than perfect vision have an irregular wavefront map. These maps are produced by when light is passed through various parts of the eye such as the cornea.
Based on the wavefront map of each eye, problems ranging from nearsightedness to farsightedness to halos and double-vision can be diagnosed more precisely.
Wavefront technology is also being used during LASIK vision correction procedures to more accurately restore your vision to 20/20. Plus, it leads to quicker healing and a lower risk of side affects. Wavefront technology and LASIK are a perfect match.
Maybe wavefront technology does have something to do with surfing. After all, if you have improved vision, you can see the waves better and enjoy surfing more. Fortunately, wavefront technology is available to surfers and non-surfers alike. Whether you need an eye exam or are considering LASIK, you should be sure your ophthalmologist uses wavefront technology.
If you've ever had your eyes checked, you'll remember that weird machine - known as a phoropter - you have to look through, telling your eye doctor which lens is better. "A or B?" "1 or 2?" And, most likely, you've had to just sort of guess at which was really better because A and B seemed pretty much the same. After all, how can you be objective when you can't see clearly?! Quite the conundrum, isn't it?
Well, thanks to wavefront technology , those old phoropters may be going the way of the Dodo bird. Basically, the wavefront system automatically measures vision problems in just a few minutes with much greater detail. This, then, allows your ophthalmologist to better prescribe lens corrections and treat any eye ailments that may be found.
What is Wavefront Technology?
Imagine a bundle of light rays with lines drawn perpendicular to the tips of those rays. Those lines make up the wavefront map. So, in a wavefront machine, for eyes with perfect vision, that map would be flat. Eyes with less than perfect vision have an irregular wavefront map. These maps are produced by when light is passed through various parts of the eye such as the cornea.
Based on the wavefront map of each eye, problems ranging from nearsightedness to farsightedness to halos and double-vision can be diagnosed more precisely.
Wavefront technology is also being used during LASIK vision correction procedures to more accurately restore your vision to 20/20. Plus, it leads to quicker healing and a lower risk of side affects. Wavefront technology and LASIK are a perfect match.
Maybe wavefront technology does have something to do with surfing. After all, if you have improved vision, you can see the waves better and enjoy surfing more. Fortunately, wavefront technology is available to surfers and non-surfers alike. Whether you need an eye exam or are considering LASIK, you should be sure your ophthalmologist uses wavefront technology.
Nokia N95 8GB Payg- Explore The Enhanced Version
The Nokia N95 8GB is an enhanced version of the Nokia N95. The Nokia N95 8GB is a Smartphone integrated with a plethora of advanced features. This multimedia device is both fashionable as well as impressive. Thus, the Nokia N95 8GB payg deal has become very popular among the mobile phone users.
Nokia N95 8GB is a perfect mobile phone that can be used for both professional as well as personal purposes. The phone features a high resolution digital camera, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a high quality media player and a headphone jack. These are few of the great advantages that the user of the Nokia N95 8GB payg deal can enjoy.
The Nokia N95 8GB operates on 3G and Symbian technology. The phone has a 5 mega pixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics that will let you capture long cherished moments with brilliance. Besides, all these, the phone come with massive memory storage space of 8GB. The luminous 2.8 inch QVGA screen of the phone facilitates the users with easy viewing of images, videos and maps.
Another innovative feature of the Nokia N95 8GB is that it is incorporated with high speed Web accessing facilities. With enhanced storage power, brilliant display and multi-tasking capabilities, the Nokia N95 8GB will surely drive you crazy. To make mobile communication more affordable and manageable, this handset is made available with payg phone deal.
The payg phone deal is a prepaid deal under which the user does not have to sign any contract. Instead of that, they will have to pay in advance for the talk time that they purchase from the network service providers. The Nokia N95 8GB payg mobile phone is an ideal option if you want to stay safe from sky high phone bills and want to make mobile expenses within limited budget
Nokia N95 8GB is a perfect mobile phone that can be used for both professional as well as personal purposes. The phone features a high resolution digital camera, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a high quality media player and a headphone jack. These are few of the great advantages that the user of the Nokia N95 8GB payg deal can enjoy.
The Nokia N95 8GB operates on 3G and Symbian technology. The phone has a 5 mega pixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics that will let you capture long cherished moments with brilliance. Besides, all these, the phone come with massive memory storage space of 8GB. The luminous 2.8 inch QVGA screen of the phone facilitates the users with easy viewing of images, videos and maps.
Another innovative feature of the Nokia N95 8GB is that it is incorporated with high speed Web accessing facilities. With enhanced storage power, brilliant display and multi-tasking capabilities, the Nokia N95 8GB will surely drive you crazy. To make mobile communication more affordable and manageable, this handset is made available with payg phone deal.
The payg phone deal is a prepaid deal under which the user does not have to sign any contract. Instead of that, they will have to pay in advance for the talk time that they purchase from the network service providers. The Nokia N95 8GB payg mobile phone is an ideal option if you want to stay safe from sky high phone bills and want to make mobile expenses within limited budget
Top Five Tips For Best Use Of The Photo Editing Software
Memories can be captured forever with photographs. More often than not it is an attempt by someone to capture some special moments in your life with the help of the camera. Immense improvements in technology have brought up many new advances in the world of photography. Many experts believe that the Midas touch with the photo editing software can greatly enhance the quality and make the digital photographs look much more professional.
Regular uses for Photo Editing Software
It may be a hefty amount or even a paltry sum; you must have invested money for your Photo Editing Software. The routine works for which you could use your software are resizing, editing, or color balancing in General. You can also add some ordinary special effects with them even if you are not apt in the art of photography or is a novice. However, even with such routine touches you can make your photographs much livelier than the earlier versions.
Uses of the Photo Editing Software are not confined to these routine jobs. You can use the software for many purposes guided by your imagination and professionalism. Not only professionals but even amateur photographers like to enhance their photographic skills with the help of quality editing software.
Best uses of Photo Editing Software
• One of the major uses of this software is cropping and providing special effects to your photographs. Adjustment of brightness is an interesting feature. If your photo editor is the latest version, then you can also create an online store for your photographs.
• You can use the open-source editor for editing your images. These are called free Photoshop and they come free of cost. You can put to best use this type of software when it supports multiple operating systems or is platform independent. You can amplify all types of plug-ins. But paid versions are obviously better and provide you with many more features.
• When the editor supports advanced scripting interface, you can make the complex problem look quite simple with its effective use.
• Some of the editors allow you to edit the images, both basic and invented, online. Such software could also give you the option of printing photos that are easily downloadable.
• If your editor comes free of cost, it is obviously more attractive to you. Many types of free software come with advanced features like export optimizer, image slicing and mapping, smart shape creation, text editing, and third party plug in support, however, all these features are much more optimized in paid versions and so are especially suited for professionals.
• A few editors have the limitation of working on particular operating systems only like the Windows or Linux. However, these editors could be put to best use by experimenting. Many of them have unlimited undo option that helps you to rectify your defects again and again without waiting for the crowded server to response frequently.
• You can use the editors to print photos on matte or waterproof paper that are both becoming extremely popular to day.
• Some of the editors carry custom brush tips and also multiple layers with masking, vector as well as the bitmap based tools for drawing. They also provide for light, color, and tone adjustments. Such software can be used for long term works as there are multiple redoes as there are undoes.
With all the above information at your disposal it becomes pretty easier for you to select your best Photo Editing Software and use it to its best potential.
Regular uses for Photo Editing Software
It may be a hefty amount or even a paltry sum; you must have invested money for your Photo Editing Software. The routine works for which you could use your software are resizing, editing, or color balancing in General. You can also add some ordinary special effects with them even if you are not apt in the art of photography or is a novice. However, even with such routine touches you can make your photographs much livelier than the earlier versions.
Uses of the Photo Editing Software are not confined to these routine jobs. You can use the software for many purposes guided by your imagination and professionalism. Not only professionals but even amateur photographers like to enhance their photographic skills with the help of quality editing software.
Best uses of Photo Editing Software
• One of the major uses of this software is cropping and providing special effects to your photographs. Adjustment of brightness is an interesting feature. If your photo editor is the latest version, then you can also create an online store for your photographs.
• You can use the open-source editor for editing your images. These are called free Photoshop and they come free of cost. You can put to best use this type of software when it supports multiple operating systems or is platform independent. You can amplify all types of plug-ins. But paid versions are obviously better and provide you with many more features.
• When the editor supports advanced scripting interface, you can make the complex problem look quite simple with its effective use.
• Some of the editors allow you to edit the images, both basic and invented, online. Such software could also give you the option of printing photos that are easily downloadable.
• If your editor comes free of cost, it is obviously more attractive to you. Many types of free software come with advanced features like export optimizer, image slicing and mapping, smart shape creation, text editing, and third party plug in support, however, all these features are much more optimized in paid versions and so are especially suited for professionals.
• A few editors have the limitation of working on particular operating systems only like the Windows or Linux. However, these editors could be put to best use by experimenting. Many of them have unlimited undo option that helps you to rectify your defects again and again without waiting for the crowded server to response frequently.
• You can use the editors to print photos on matte or waterproof paper that are both becoming extremely popular to day.
• Some of the editors carry custom brush tips and also multiple layers with masking, vector as well as the bitmap based tools for drawing. They also provide for light, color, and tone adjustments. Such software can be used for long term works as there are multiple redoes as there are undoes.
With all the above information at your disposal it becomes pretty easier for you to select your best Photo Editing Software and use it to its best potential.
How to make homemade solar /wind power // Homemade Solar /wind Electricity Power DIY
You can now save hundreds of dollars by homemade solar and wind electric power. A new illustrated renewable energy power manual is easy to follow and make your own home power.
You can even benefit from renewable energy tax credits by using these simple energy sources that never expire.
This is a good way to stop paying that electricity bill using a do it yourself solar and wind power generation manual . The fun part with this system is that you only need less than $200 to set everything up and start saving over 80% on your monthly electricity bill.
The earth4energy diy kit has full instructions and comes with a video lessons to help you build your own solar and wind power system. Once set up, you can afford to get off the national power grid in a single weekend with this DIY power system.
The new homemade power system manual also tells you were you can get free batteries to store up the energy generated by your home system. This power manual would easily sell for $3000 but the owner gives it ways for far much less than that.
The DIY home power system is offered online and an easy to download file including the illustrated manual and video lessons for $49.97. I doubted it at first until I read the testimonials that come with proof of authenticity
You can even benefit from renewable energy tax credits by using these simple energy sources that never expire.
This is a good way to stop paying that electricity bill using a do it yourself solar and wind power generation manual . The fun part with this system is that you only need less than $200 to set everything up and start saving over 80% on your monthly electricity bill.
The earth4energy diy kit has full instructions and comes with a video lessons to help you build your own solar and wind power system. Once set up, you can afford to get off the national power grid in a single weekend with this DIY power system.
The new homemade power system manual also tells you were you can get free batteries to store up the energy generated by your home system. This power manual would easily sell for $3000 but the owner gives it ways for far much less than that.
The DIY home power system is offered online and an easy to download file including the illustrated manual and video lessons for $49.97. I doubted it at first until I read the testimonials that come with proof of authenticity
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Paper Trim Recycling and Air Filtration in the Folding Carton Industry
Conventional Trim Systems
Overhead ductwork systems designed to capture and remove trim, paper scrap and dust have been used for many decades in the box and carton industries. While many of the components of these systems look like they did 30 years ago, the 1990s have rediscovered their importance. Concerns about the environment, recycling, and occupational health and safety have forced plant managers to view these systems as vital and necessary element of their plant operations.
Paper Trim (Scrap) Rotary Valves An alternative method of trim removal that is gaining popularity involves setting the duct in an underground trench. At pick-up points, the trim falls from the diecutter onto the top of the rotating vanes of a rotary valve. The valve rotor is set below grade but above the top of the underground duct. Providing the differential pressure seal is a Neoprene wiper tip running along the entire length of the edge of each blade. The rotation of the rotary valve (usually 9 to 12 rpm) allows the trim to settle between the blades and fall into the underground duct.
A paper trim rotary valve is similar to a material-handling rotary valve (or airlock) found beneath screw conveyors and baghouses. On an airlock the seal provided by the edges of the rotating blades (or wipers) allows materials to fall through the unit without experiencing blowback from the higher pressure area below the airlock outlet. A paper scrap valve operates on the same principle allowing trim to fall from the plant floor into a higher pressure underground conveying line. The main difference lies in the shape. Unlike airlocks, paper scrap valve inlets and outlets are much more rectangular than square because of the length of the rotor is elongated to span the entire length of its diecutter (often 8 feet or more). The widths of the trench and paper scarp vale (usually 24 to 30 inches) are made to accommodate the diameter of the underground duct (usually 16 to 18 inches).
As many as five or six diecutters can be placed in series to feed the same underground trench. Paper scrap rotary valves also can be designed to feed two parallel underground lines for grade separation. A clockwise rotation of the valve would feed one line, while a counterclockwise rotation would drop trim into the other line.
The underground rotary valve concept might be less feasible with existing plants if new underground trenches must be constructed, heavy diecutters must be relocated, and concrete removed and redone. It is more likely to be included in the drawings for new facilities where it can be considered in the initial plant design and layout.
A tremendous advantage of the valves is that they use only a small amount of conditioned air from the plant as trim falls into the rotary valves. The valves are gravity feed, not suction feed as is the case of a conventional overhead duct system. The air needed to convey the material in the underground duct can be completely taken from outside and retuned to outside. The result may be noticeable energy savings for some high-altitude locations during the winter months.
Cyclones
There are two general types of cyclones: (1) high efficiency, and (2) low pressure. High efficiency cyclones are tall, narrow units with a small diameter to elevation ratio. They are generally used in the woodworking industry and in the grain industry, especially in feed mills on pellet coolers. Low pressure cyclones have a much larger diameter-to-diameter ratio, and they are most often used in paper scrap collection systems where high-efficiency is not an overriding concern. While a pressure loss across a low pressure cyclone averages 1.5 inch water column, a high-efficiency cyclone may lose as much as 5 inch water column.
Balers
Balers are usually located directly underneath a low-pressure cyclone. They are necessary for collecting, compressing and creating manageable bales of recyclable paper scrap.
Baghouses
A baghouse is a dust collection devices that filter air by passing it through a cloth or synthetic fiber media (or bag). A bag is a long cylinder-shaped envelope that collects dust on its exposed surface. Baghouses differ not by the method by which dust is removed from the airstream but rather by the method by which dust is removed from the bag.
If used in conjunction with a cyclone, a baghouse is used as an after filter and located downstream. Baghouses are necessary for air filtration, not scrap collection. Unlike the cyclone, the fine paper dust collected from a baghouse has no value in recycling. Baghouses are necessary where moderate to stringent emission control measures are in place. In addition to its environmental value, a baghouse may reduce winter heat loss if conditioned air is passed through the baghouse and recirculated back into the facility. Unlike a cyclone, a baghouse can support the cleaning efficiency necessary to direct its outlet air back into the plant.
Baghouse Types
Baghouses are identified by their method of self-cleaning. A reverse-air baghouse blows air backwards through the bags from the clean-air (plenum) section of the unit. This unit requires a three-phase electrical supply to operate its reverse air blower and the blower outlet turning arm mechanism.
By contrast, a compressed-air (or pulse-jet) baghouse requires not only a single phase 120 VAC supply for the electrical sequence timer operation but also a supply of clean, dry compressed air (usually 90-100 psig). This timer controls the operation of a series of solenoid valves that regulate the access of compressed air to the baghouse. A quick pulse of compressed air sends a rippling shock wave traveling down the length of the bag.
A third type of baghouse is the shaker. This involves a framework of cam mechanisms, seated in the top of the unit. The shaking action may be either manual or motor operated.
Determining the type of baghouse from its trade name may prove difficult since not all manufactures share exactly the same terminology. Furthermore, some baghouses may use a combination of two cleaning methods. Some end-users will prefer only one type of baghouse; others may have preferences governed only by economics.
The purpose of all of the above self-cleaning methods is to loosen excessive dust from the outside of the bags. The dust particles are then free to fall toward the bottom of the baghouse into a hopper or drum. Dust buildup in a hopper can be removed by either a rotary valve (airlock) or a screw conveyor.
Baghouse Selection
Given an air capacity, a baghouse often may be selected based on a set air-to-cloth ratio. The air-to-cloth is not actually a dimensionless "ratio". In the U.S. system of units it equals the average filtration velocity (feet per minute or fpm) which is the system capacity (cubic feet per minute or cfm) divided by the cloth area (square feet). Although air-to-cloth ratio standards differ from user to user, their usual range is from 5:1 to 10:1, with 8:1 as the most common.
Although the air-to-cloth ratio is an essential design parameter, it is not more important that a manageable interstitial velocity. The interstitial velocity is the velocity of the unfiltered air traveling upward in between the bags. This velocity is greatest near the base of the bags, before any air is absorbed through the media. The maximum interstitial velocity can be calculated by dividing the cfm filter capacity by the horizontal cross sectional area of the unit, counting only the area outside of the bags. If this value is too large (over 400 fpm), it will prevent dust from falling below the elevation of the baghouse air inlet. The dust particles that have been blown (or pulsed) away from the dust layer on the bags will become entrained in the upward moving airstream and forced back toward the surface of the bags. Fine paper dust is especially susceptible to this, even at low interstitial velocities (over 200 fpm).
Baghouse Bag Types
Most fabric dust collectors in the paper industry are equipped with either 12 ounce or 16 ounce, singed polyester, non-woven (felt) bags. The weight of the filter media (12 ounce versus 16 ounce) is based upon one square yard of clean fabric. The slightly heavier 16 ounce media is preferred by customers who launder their bags often. Although a 16 ounce media is more durable that a 12 ounce media, it is not necessarily more efficient. Singed polyester is good for all grain, paper, woodworking and most medium-temperature non-toxic duct environments. For heavily acidic or alkali dusts, PTFE (Teflon®) or polypropylene bags should be considered. An upper temperature limit for singed polyester media is 275 degrees F for continuous operation and 300 degrees F surge (for only brief periods of use).
Although they are used to a much lesser extent that singed polyester, a pare-pleated bag has an advantage over a conventional flat-surfaced polyester bag since it and squeeze more filter media area in the same volume. However, price works to its disadvantage. A paper-pleated bag may cost more than 10 times that of a polyester bag of the same diameter and length, while providing only four to five times the filtering area.
Baghouse Efficiency
The efficiency of any baghouse depends much more on the dust-loading conditions that the weight of the filter media. Laboratory test performed on either 12 or 16 ounce singed polyester bags usually result in an efficiency of 99.9% (by weight) when silica dust was used as the containment. A standard silica test would be conducted within the following parameters: A. The incoming airstream has a dust concentration that does not exceed 10 grains per dry standard cubic foot of air. (7000 grains = 1 lb.) B. The median dust particle diameter is 0.6 microns, and the particle size distribution is such that 50% of the particles were 0.5 microns or less (1,000,000 microns = 1 meter) C. The average filtration velocity (or air-to-cloth ratio) is no greater than 5 fpm.
Some filtering applications are designed to fall within the above guidelines. However, because of either spacial or economic constraints, a baghouse large enough to hold the filtration velocity below 5 fpm may not be available. As a result, a majority of actual filtration velocities climb into the 8 to 9 fpm range. According to some bag manufactures, operating the baghouse in this range will diminish the efficiency slightly, but not below 99.7%. Other factors may further hinder bag efficiency, such as torn bags resulting from improper bag installation as well as poorly designed or partially blocked baghouse air inlets.
Assuming that the incoming dust concentration does not exceed 10 grains/cu.ft., a 99.7% efficient filter would allow no more that (10)(1-0.997) or 0.03 grains/cu.ft. of dust concentration in the outlet stream. A 99.9% efficient filter would allow no more that (10)(1-0.999) or 0.01 grains/cu.ft. through the outlet.
The concentration and median particle size of dust generated by the product that becomes trapped in the incoming air stream depends on many factors. Some of these factors include the type and density of the product, the method of conveying the product, the moisture content of the product, and the amount of entrained air in the product. This dust concentration may vary from as little as 2 grains/cu.ft. in metalworking facilities to more than 15 grains/cu.ft. in some woodworking operations. There is no substitute for actual on-site testing if this number is critical to obtaining an air permit. Without knowing the incoming air dust concentration, the outlet dust concentration cannot be approximated with any reliable accuracy.
Baghouse Pressure Drop
The pressure differential (or pressure drop) across the bags is most easily measured by taking the pressure difference across the tube sheet. This is possible because all of the air inside the bags is at the same pressure as the air in the clean-air plenum above the tube sheet.
A newly installed baghouse will initially show a pressure drop of only 0.5 to 1.5-inch water column. This pressure differential will slowly and steadily increase to level at about 3-inch water column after one to two months. A properly functioning self-cleaning baghouse will not allow this pressure differential to continue to increase much beyond this point. Usually the baghouse pressure drop will range from a minimum of 3-inch to a maximum of 5-inch, averaging 4-inch water column. A pressure drop of over five usually indicates that the bag are blinded. This occurs when dust particles have so thoroughly saturated every microscopic void between the bag fibers that airflow is noticeably restricted. This is most often caused by a high air-to-cloth ratio (or filtration velocity).
Baghouse pressure differentials are not necessarily a direct indication of filter efficiency. The building up of a dust cake on the exterior surface of the bags may actually increase efficiency, but too thick of a layer will diminish the ability of the bags to handle their designed quantity of air.
Bag Life Expectancy
Depending on whether a baghouse operates under a continuous or intermediate duty cycle, the average life expectancy of a 12 ounce or 16 ounce singed polyester bag ranges from four to eight years. While some companies may to elect to replace bags every year or every other year, a bag typically should not show any noticeable decline in efficiency until after at least three years. Improper laundering, high-filtration velocities (over 12 fpm), high temperatures (over 120 degrees F), continuous saturation under high humidity, or a combination of these adverse factors may abbreviate bag life. On the other hand, nags that show little or no wear after ten years should indicate to the user that perhaps the baghouse was initially oversized for the system; therefore, neither the bag nor the baghouse was ever used to develop its fullest potential.
Overhead ductwork systems designed to capture and remove trim, paper scrap and dust have been used for many decades in the box and carton industries. While many of the components of these systems look like they did 30 years ago, the 1990s have rediscovered their importance. Concerns about the environment, recycling, and occupational health and safety have forced plant managers to view these systems as vital and necessary element of their plant operations.
Paper Trim (Scrap) Rotary Valves An alternative method of trim removal that is gaining popularity involves setting the duct in an underground trench. At pick-up points, the trim falls from the diecutter onto the top of the rotating vanes of a rotary valve. The valve rotor is set below grade but above the top of the underground duct. Providing the differential pressure seal is a Neoprene wiper tip running along the entire length of the edge of each blade. The rotation of the rotary valve (usually 9 to 12 rpm) allows the trim to settle between the blades and fall into the underground duct.
A paper trim rotary valve is similar to a material-handling rotary valve (or airlock) found beneath screw conveyors and baghouses. On an airlock the seal provided by the edges of the rotating blades (or wipers) allows materials to fall through the unit without experiencing blowback from the higher pressure area below the airlock outlet. A paper scrap valve operates on the same principle allowing trim to fall from the plant floor into a higher pressure underground conveying line. The main difference lies in the shape. Unlike airlocks, paper scrap valve inlets and outlets are much more rectangular than square because of the length of the rotor is elongated to span the entire length of its diecutter (often 8 feet or more). The widths of the trench and paper scarp vale (usually 24 to 30 inches) are made to accommodate the diameter of the underground duct (usually 16 to 18 inches).
As many as five or six diecutters can be placed in series to feed the same underground trench. Paper scrap rotary valves also can be designed to feed two parallel underground lines for grade separation. A clockwise rotation of the valve would feed one line, while a counterclockwise rotation would drop trim into the other line.
The underground rotary valve concept might be less feasible with existing plants if new underground trenches must be constructed, heavy diecutters must be relocated, and concrete removed and redone. It is more likely to be included in the drawings for new facilities where it can be considered in the initial plant design and layout.
A tremendous advantage of the valves is that they use only a small amount of conditioned air from the plant as trim falls into the rotary valves. The valves are gravity feed, not suction feed as is the case of a conventional overhead duct system. The air needed to convey the material in the underground duct can be completely taken from outside and retuned to outside. The result may be noticeable energy savings for some high-altitude locations during the winter months.
Cyclones
There are two general types of cyclones: (1) high efficiency, and (2) low pressure. High efficiency cyclones are tall, narrow units with a small diameter to elevation ratio. They are generally used in the woodworking industry and in the grain industry, especially in feed mills on pellet coolers. Low pressure cyclones have a much larger diameter-to-diameter ratio, and they are most often used in paper scrap collection systems where high-efficiency is not an overriding concern. While a pressure loss across a low pressure cyclone averages 1.5 inch water column, a high-efficiency cyclone may lose as much as 5 inch water column.
Balers
Balers are usually located directly underneath a low-pressure cyclone. They are necessary for collecting, compressing and creating manageable bales of recyclable paper scrap.
Baghouses
A baghouse is a dust collection devices that filter air by passing it through a cloth or synthetic fiber media (or bag). A bag is a long cylinder-shaped envelope that collects dust on its exposed surface. Baghouses differ not by the method by which dust is removed from the airstream but rather by the method by which dust is removed from the bag.
If used in conjunction with a cyclone, a baghouse is used as an after filter and located downstream. Baghouses are necessary for air filtration, not scrap collection. Unlike the cyclone, the fine paper dust collected from a baghouse has no value in recycling. Baghouses are necessary where moderate to stringent emission control measures are in place. In addition to its environmental value, a baghouse may reduce winter heat loss if conditioned air is passed through the baghouse and recirculated back into the facility. Unlike a cyclone, a baghouse can support the cleaning efficiency necessary to direct its outlet air back into the plant.
Baghouse Types
Baghouses are identified by their method of self-cleaning. A reverse-air baghouse blows air backwards through the bags from the clean-air (plenum) section of the unit. This unit requires a three-phase electrical supply to operate its reverse air blower and the blower outlet turning arm mechanism.
By contrast, a compressed-air (or pulse-jet) baghouse requires not only a single phase 120 VAC supply for the electrical sequence timer operation but also a supply of clean, dry compressed air (usually 90-100 psig). This timer controls the operation of a series of solenoid valves that regulate the access of compressed air to the baghouse. A quick pulse of compressed air sends a rippling shock wave traveling down the length of the bag.
A third type of baghouse is the shaker. This involves a framework of cam mechanisms, seated in the top of the unit. The shaking action may be either manual or motor operated.
Determining the type of baghouse from its trade name may prove difficult since not all manufactures share exactly the same terminology. Furthermore, some baghouses may use a combination of two cleaning methods. Some end-users will prefer only one type of baghouse; others may have preferences governed only by economics.
The purpose of all of the above self-cleaning methods is to loosen excessive dust from the outside of the bags. The dust particles are then free to fall toward the bottom of the baghouse into a hopper or drum. Dust buildup in a hopper can be removed by either a rotary valve (airlock) or a screw conveyor.
Baghouse Selection
Given an air capacity, a baghouse often may be selected based on a set air-to-cloth ratio. The air-to-cloth is not actually a dimensionless "ratio". In the U.S. system of units it equals the average filtration velocity (feet per minute or fpm) which is the system capacity (cubic feet per minute or cfm) divided by the cloth area (square feet). Although air-to-cloth ratio standards differ from user to user, their usual range is from 5:1 to 10:1, with 8:1 as the most common.
Although the air-to-cloth ratio is an essential design parameter, it is not more important that a manageable interstitial velocity. The interstitial velocity is the velocity of the unfiltered air traveling upward in between the bags. This velocity is greatest near the base of the bags, before any air is absorbed through the media. The maximum interstitial velocity can be calculated by dividing the cfm filter capacity by the horizontal cross sectional area of the unit, counting only the area outside of the bags. If this value is too large (over 400 fpm), it will prevent dust from falling below the elevation of the baghouse air inlet. The dust particles that have been blown (or pulsed) away from the dust layer on the bags will become entrained in the upward moving airstream and forced back toward the surface of the bags. Fine paper dust is especially susceptible to this, even at low interstitial velocities (over 200 fpm).
Baghouse Bag Types
Most fabric dust collectors in the paper industry are equipped with either 12 ounce or 16 ounce, singed polyester, non-woven (felt) bags. The weight of the filter media (12 ounce versus 16 ounce) is based upon one square yard of clean fabric. The slightly heavier 16 ounce media is preferred by customers who launder their bags often. Although a 16 ounce media is more durable that a 12 ounce media, it is not necessarily more efficient. Singed polyester is good for all grain, paper, woodworking and most medium-temperature non-toxic duct environments. For heavily acidic or alkali dusts, PTFE (Teflon®) or polypropylene bags should be considered. An upper temperature limit for singed polyester media is 275 degrees F for continuous operation and 300 degrees F surge (for only brief periods of use).
Although they are used to a much lesser extent that singed polyester, a pare-pleated bag has an advantage over a conventional flat-surfaced polyester bag since it and squeeze more filter media area in the same volume. However, price works to its disadvantage. A paper-pleated bag may cost more than 10 times that of a polyester bag of the same diameter and length, while providing only four to five times the filtering area.
Baghouse Efficiency
The efficiency of any baghouse depends much more on the dust-loading conditions that the weight of the filter media. Laboratory test performed on either 12 or 16 ounce singed polyester bags usually result in an efficiency of 99.9% (by weight) when silica dust was used as the containment. A standard silica test would be conducted within the following parameters: A. The incoming airstream has a dust concentration that does not exceed 10 grains per dry standard cubic foot of air. (7000 grains = 1 lb.) B. The median dust particle diameter is 0.6 microns, and the particle size distribution is such that 50% of the particles were 0.5 microns or less (1,000,000 microns = 1 meter) C. The average filtration velocity (or air-to-cloth ratio) is no greater than 5 fpm.
Some filtering applications are designed to fall within the above guidelines. However, because of either spacial or economic constraints, a baghouse large enough to hold the filtration velocity below 5 fpm may not be available. As a result, a majority of actual filtration velocities climb into the 8 to 9 fpm range. According to some bag manufactures, operating the baghouse in this range will diminish the efficiency slightly, but not below 99.7%. Other factors may further hinder bag efficiency, such as torn bags resulting from improper bag installation as well as poorly designed or partially blocked baghouse air inlets.
Assuming that the incoming dust concentration does not exceed 10 grains/cu.ft., a 99.7% efficient filter would allow no more that (10)(1-0.997) or 0.03 grains/cu.ft. of dust concentration in the outlet stream. A 99.9% efficient filter would allow no more that (10)(1-0.999) or 0.01 grains/cu.ft. through the outlet.
The concentration and median particle size of dust generated by the product that becomes trapped in the incoming air stream depends on many factors. Some of these factors include the type and density of the product, the method of conveying the product, the moisture content of the product, and the amount of entrained air in the product. This dust concentration may vary from as little as 2 grains/cu.ft. in metalworking facilities to more than 15 grains/cu.ft. in some woodworking operations. There is no substitute for actual on-site testing if this number is critical to obtaining an air permit. Without knowing the incoming air dust concentration, the outlet dust concentration cannot be approximated with any reliable accuracy.
Baghouse Pressure Drop
The pressure differential (or pressure drop) across the bags is most easily measured by taking the pressure difference across the tube sheet. This is possible because all of the air inside the bags is at the same pressure as the air in the clean-air plenum above the tube sheet.
A newly installed baghouse will initially show a pressure drop of only 0.5 to 1.5-inch water column. This pressure differential will slowly and steadily increase to level at about 3-inch water column after one to two months. A properly functioning self-cleaning baghouse will not allow this pressure differential to continue to increase much beyond this point. Usually the baghouse pressure drop will range from a minimum of 3-inch to a maximum of 5-inch, averaging 4-inch water column. A pressure drop of over five usually indicates that the bag are blinded. This occurs when dust particles have so thoroughly saturated every microscopic void between the bag fibers that airflow is noticeably restricted. This is most often caused by a high air-to-cloth ratio (or filtration velocity).
Baghouse pressure differentials are not necessarily a direct indication of filter efficiency. The building up of a dust cake on the exterior surface of the bags may actually increase efficiency, but too thick of a layer will diminish the ability of the bags to handle their designed quantity of air.
Bag Life Expectancy
Depending on whether a baghouse operates under a continuous or intermediate duty cycle, the average life expectancy of a 12 ounce or 16 ounce singed polyester bag ranges from four to eight years. While some companies may to elect to replace bags every year or every other year, a bag typically should not show any noticeable decline in efficiency until after at least three years. Improper laundering, high-filtration velocities (over 12 fpm), high temperatures (over 120 degrees F), continuous saturation under high humidity, or a combination of these adverse factors may abbreviate bag life. On the other hand, nags that show little or no wear after ten years should indicate to the user that perhaps the baghouse was initially oversized for the system; therefore, neither the bag nor the baghouse was ever used to develop its fullest potential.
A Short History of VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, has only been around for a relatively short period of time when you look at the big picture of human history. In the roughly six thousand or so years of recorded history, VoIP has only been around for a very short time, a small blip or dot in the timeline of man. That said, in the time it's been around, it has grown by leaps and bounds.
The beginnings of VoIP can be found with the introduction of the telegraph and the first telephones - that desire to be able to communicate over vast distances easily, cheaply, and in real time. When Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876, he started a ball rolling, a ball of information that would build up over the years.
For many years after the invention of the telephone, use skyrocketed and phones became commonplace and found in everyone's homes. During these initial decades, though, the technology progressed slowly. Slow evolution is still evolution, though.
By the mid 20th century, man was becoming good at transmitting all sorts of data over wires and eventually wireless toward the close of the century. Also during this time, computers became smaller and more powerful, allowing the transmission of data, of ones and zeros, to be able to be translated into other things - like a voice.
The first VoIP devices were found back in 1995, when the Internet was still a long way off from what it is today (and what it's going to become when it eventually reaches its potential.) Even in those early days, though, a lot of people became early adopters because they believed in the technology and could see the benefits would only increase as time went on.
At this point, things really began to move. As it was shown that there was a market for VoIP technology, a lot of people entered the game and started offering service - real time communication via the same "wire" that feeds your Internet connection. And with a lot of people entering the ring, competition led to innovation - smaller devices, better reception, more features, and even a lower price.
All of these things will drive more and more people to look into VoIP and how it can help better their lives. And that will only keep the ball rolling with innovations and improvements to VoIP. And if the cycle does continue for even a generation or two, there's no telling where the technology might lead.
However far it goes in innovation, VoIP is bound to play a bigger role in more people's lives as time progresses. It's not a perfect technology or one that will solve all the world's problems, but it's something that can help you in a lot of different and positive ways.
The beginnings of VoIP can be found with the introduction of the telegraph and the first telephones - that desire to be able to communicate over vast distances easily, cheaply, and in real time. When Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876, he started a ball rolling, a ball of information that would build up over the years.
For many years after the invention of the telephone, use skyrocketed and phones became commonplace and found in everyone's homes. During these initial decades, though, the technology progressed slowly. Slow evolution is still evolution, though.
By the mid 20th century, man was becoming good at transmitting all sorts of data over wires and eventually wireless toward the close of the century. Also during this time, computers became smaller and more powerful, allowing the transmission of data, of ones and zeros, to be able to be translated into other things - like a voice.
The first VoIP devices were found back in 1995, when the Internet was still a long way off from what it is today (and what it's going to become when it eventually reaches its potential.) Even in those early days, though, a lot of people became early adopters because they believed in the technology and could see the benefits would only increase as time went on.
At this point, things really began to move. As it was shown that there was a market for VoIP technology, a lot of people entered the game and started offering service - real time communication via the same "wire" that feeds your Internet connection. And with a lot of people entering the ring, competition led to innovation - smaller devices, better reception, more features, and even a lower price.
All of these things will drive more and more people to look into VoIP and how it can help better their lives. And that will only keep the ball rolling with innovations and improvements to VoIP. And if the cycle does continue for even a generation or two, there's no telling where the technology might lead.
However far it goes in innovation, VoIP is bound to play a bigger role in more people's lives as time progresses. It's not a perfect technology or one that will solve all the world's problems, but it's something that can help you in a lot of different and positive ways.
Precision Tone Generators Inside Look
In our latest article on tone generators, we've hit the mack daddy of them all. The Precision Tone Generator made by none other than the good old folks at Greenlee are one of the best at what it does. This particular tone generator packs a wallop and it has no shame in showing why it's on of the best of its kind. This is one of the high end tone generators on the market and in the arsenal of Greenlee. So what exactly makes it tick? Worry not dear reader we have all that information loaded up for you and we're going to let you in on the what the whole buzz regarding The Precision Tone Generator is about.
For the longest time we know how good Greenlee's tone generators our and the precision model was no different. There's no doubt that for those that have the extra money and are serious about having the most efficient piece of machinery possible then The Precision Tone Generator is something that you just can't afford to be without. This tone generator boasts some of the most powerful features on the market today and let's not keep you in suspense anymore let's let you in on what this tone generator exactly offers.
Its power requirements include a 6V lantern battery which will normally last you forty hours. The frequency on its transmitter is pulsed at 1Hz and it runs up to 577.5Hz it's also crystal controlled. It reaches 0.1 to 80Vp-p level of output voltage. Its output signal level reaches 0 to +30dBm. The precision tone generator is made out of a very strong ABS plastic and it comes with a case made out of woven polyester. The unit itself weight in around three pounds after adding in the battery.
Now what are its exact capabilities? Well, you are about to find out dear reader, let's hop right to that. It's adjustable level of output lets users tweak the strength of the signal so it'll adapt to certain circumstances and allow for the best possible efficiency.
It's intended to be compatible with any ordinary device such as common amplifiers and exploring coils. Each of its different test leads which total in at three comes with bent nose piercing clips and piercing pins that will insulate. In the telecom business this device is best used for determining pairings and fault locating. Greenlee also throws in a one year warranty with the item.
Well that pretty much tells you how awesome of a device this is. Greenlee as always stays confident in their product and guarantee the absolute best to their customers. You can't ask for much more in a piece of machinery can you? This one year warranty is best explained by Greenlee themselves so we'll leave that part to them but we definitely feel we had to let you in on its existence.
After all what kind of people would we be if we didn't? So dear reader there's the plain and simple on the Precision Tone Generator from Greenlee and we have to say that if that's what you're looking for you can't go wrong. It has many features that will assist you greatly in the work environment and even after the first use the item will definitely pay for itself.
For the longest time we know how good Greenlee's tone generators our and the precision model was no different. There's no doubt that for those that have the extra money and are serious about having the most efficient piece of machinery possible then The Precision Tone Generator is something that you just can't afford to be without. This tone generator boasts some of the most powerful features on the market today and let's not keep you in suspense anymore let's let you in on what this tone generator exactly offers.
Its power requirements include a 6V lantern battery which will normally last you forty hours. The frequency on its transmitter is pulsed at 1Hz and it runs up to 577.5Hz it's also crystal controlled. It reaches 0.1 to 80Vp-p level of output voltage. Its output signal level reaches 0 to +30dBm. The precision tone generator is made out of a very strong ABS plastic and it comes with a case made out of woven polyester. The unit itself weight in around three pounds after adding in the battery.
Now what are its exact capabilities? Well, you are about to find out dear reader, let's hop right to that. It's adjustable level of output lets users tweak the strength of the signal so it'll adapt to certain circumstances and allow for the best possible efficiency.
It's intended to be compatible with any ordinary device such as common amplifiers and exploring coils. Each of its different test leads which total in at three comes with bent nose piercing clips and piercing pins that will insulate. In the telecom business this device is best used for determining pairings and fault locating. Greenlee also throws in a one year warranty with the item.
Well that pretty much tells you how awesome of a device this is. Greenlee as always stays confident in their product and guarantee the absolute best to their customers. You can't ask for much more in a piece of machinery can you? This one year warranty is best explained by Greenlee themselves so we'll leave that part to them but we definitely feel we had to let you in on its existence.
After all what kind of people would we be if we didn't? So dear reader there's the plain and simple on the Precision Tone Generator from Greenlee and we have to say that if that's what you're looking for you can't go wrong. It has many features that will assist you greatly in the work environment and even after the first use the item will definitely pay for itself.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
High Power Leaders Gather at Photonex 08
Industry's top manufacturers and academics to present at IEEE/LEOS sponsored seminar programme
At this week's Photonex 08, leading laser system manufacturers and university academics will take part in a high level seminar programme on High Power Diode Lasers and Systems. Representatives from Alcatel Thales III-V Labs (France), Jenoptik (Germany), Intense and GSI Lasers, will be joined by academics from Cambridge, Glasgow and Nottingham universities. The seminar, supported by IEEE/LEOS, confirms Photonex as the UK's premier showcase for the photonics industry's most advanced technology. Photonex is taking place in Coventry's Stoneleigh Park, 15 - 18 October.
"The market for advanced, high power laser systems has shown incredible growth in recent years, and that growth shows no signs of slowing," said Professor Catrina Bryce of Glasgow University. "The high power diode laser and systems market is seeing advances in the capabilities of both conventional solid state lasers and fibre lasers being driven by improvements in power, mode structure, brightness and reliability of high power pump laser diodes.
"This seminar, along with the rest of the programme taking place at the event, will see the top people from the commercial and research areas of this exciting marketplace outline the very latest advancements in technology, business and applications.
"As Photonex grows in size and stature each year, so does it's seminar programme, and this year it has attracted some big names in the photonics space."
The seminar programme will also include an Innovation and Investment Seminar Programme to link with this year's new forums, as well as Industrial innovation with lasers in the medical sector and Solving sensing problems with photonics, amongst others.
The programme, along with the addition of this years Innovation and Investment Forums, means that this years Photonex is pushing itself to the front of the crowd, to be recognised as a truly innovative and high-calibre show.
At this week's Photonex 08, leading laser system manufacturers and university academics will take part in a high level seminar programme on High Power Diode Lasers and Systems. Representatives from Alcatel Thales III-V Labs (France), Jenoptik (Germany), Intense and GSI Lasers, will be joined by academics from Cambridge, Glasgow and Nottingham universities. The seminar, supported by IEEE/LEOS, confirms Photonex as the UK's premier showcase for the photonics industry's most advanced technology. Photonex is taking place in Coventry's Stoneleigh Park, 15 - 18 October.
"The market for advanced, high power laser systems has shown incredible growth in recent years, and that growth shows no signs of slowing," said Professor Catrina Bryce of Glasgow University. "The high power diode laser and systems market is seeing advances in the capabilities of both conventional solid state lasers and fibre lasers being driven by improvements in power, mode structure, brightness and reliability of high power pump laser diodes.
"This seminar, along with the rest of the programme taking place at the event, will see the top people from the commercial and research areas of this exciting marketplace outline the very latest advancements in technology, business and applications.
"As Photonex grows in size and stature each year, so does it's seminar programme, and this year it has attracted some big names in the photonics space."
The seminar programme will also include an Innovation and Investment Seminar Programme to link with this year's new forums, as well as Industrial innovation with lasers in the medical sector and Solving sensing problems with photonics, amongst others.
The programme, along with the addition of this years Innovation and Investment Forums, means that this years Photonex is pushing itself to the front of the crowd, to be recognised as a truly innovative and high-calibre show.
Mobile Phone Plans: Traditional versus Prepaid
The wireless communication business is like any other part of the competitive retail industry. It constantly expands, and continuously makes room for improvements and revolutionary discoveries. Upgrades and enhanced technologies hit the market at regular intervals and it is becoming more difficult to keep up with the latest trends and developments.
Mobile phones have become a way of life and most people today use a wireless handset to conduct business on the go, or enhance their social life. As business strategy develops, the wireless service providers offer their users more and more possibilities, with the prepaid mobile phone as being one of the most recent innovations.
With every progression in technology, come new rate plans, service conditions and fees. This is also the case for prepaid mobiles. Analyzing the most significant differences between a long-term plan and a prepaid plan, we notice that, while monthly cellular or mobile phone plans, as a norm, tie their user into a one- or two-year service contract, the prepaid plans do not require a set time commitment. Knowing exactly how much you are spending, you can better control your cost, and there is no monthly bill to worry about.
Prepaid mobiles are ideal for people with bad credit. The carriers do not need a credit approval, which means, no credit checks! They do not demand a deposit and do not surprise you with hidden fees. There is also no termination penalty, as there is no contract.
Many prepaid mobile phone starter kits are delivered with a phone number, access to a network and a certain amount of credit for calls. When all the credit is used up, recharging the account is easy, and can be done in many different ways, at any time. You can go online, pay by phone, bank machine, or with a prepaid card. Refills can also be obtained at retail outlets, service stations and convenience stores.
With every great invention come drawbacks. The average charge per minute for a pay-as-you-go phone is higher than what monthly mobile plans bill for, and if you do not use the phone for an extended period of time, you may lose the unused funds on your account. Collect calls or third-party billed calls are also not accepted.
In general, prepaid mobile phones can be the cheapest option for people who do not make many mobile calls. They are handy if you only want a handset to receive calls, or take along for emergencies . Even if you run out of credit you can still receive calls for a limited time and dial out for emergency services. On the other hand, if you are a frequent caller, want extra features such as Internet access, and have several family members, employees, or business partners you want to add to your plan, you are likely better off with a traditional mobile service plan.
Before signing up for a long-term plan, think about the length of the contract and minimum total costs; find out if a phone is included in the starter package, and if there are penalties involved when leaving the plan early. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of both prepaid and traditional mobile phone plans and then decide what format would work best for you.
Mobile phones have become a way of life and most people today use a wireless handset to conduct business on the go, or enhance their social life. As business strategy develops, the wireless service providers offer their users more and more possibilities, with the prepaid mobile phone as being one of the most recent innovations.
With every progression in technology, come new rate plans, service conditions and fees. This is also the case for prepaid mobiles. Analyzing the most significant differences between a long-term plan and a prepaid plan, we notice that, while monthly cellular or mobile phone plans, as a norm, tie their user into a one- or two-year service contract, the prepaid plans do not require a set time commitment. Knowing exactly how much you are spending, you can better control your cost, and there is no monthly bill to worry about.
Prepaid mobiles are ideal for people with bad credit. The carriers do not need a credit approval, which means, no credit checks! They do not demand a deposit and do not surprise you with hidden fees. There is also no termination penalty, as there is no contract.
Many prepaid mobile phone starter kits are delivered with a phone number, access to a network and a certain amount of credit for calls. When all the credit is used up, recharging the account is easy, and can be done in many different ways, at any time. You can go online, pay by phone, bank machine, or with a prepaid card. Refills can also be obtained at retail outlets, service stations and convenience stores.
With every great invention come drawbacks. The average charge per minute for a pay-as-you-go phone is higher than what monthly mobile plans bill for, and if you do not use the phone for an extended period of time, you may lose the unused funds on your account. Collect calls or third-party billed calls are also not accepted.
In general, prepaid mobile phones can be the cheapest option for people who do not make many mobile calls. They are handy if you only want a handset to receive calls, or take along for emergencies . Even if you run out of credit you can still receive calls for a limited time and dial out for emergency services. On the other hand, if you are a frequent caller, want extra features such as Internet access, and have several family members, employees, or business partners you want to add to your plan, you are likely better off with a traditional mobile service plan.
Before signing up for a long-term plan, think about the length of the contract and minimum total costs; find out if a phone is included in the starter package, and if there are penalties involved when leaving the plan early. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of both prepaid and traditional mobile phone plans and then decide what format would work best for you.
How Does Voice Over IP Work - Save Money And Take A Step Into The 21st Century
How does voice over IP work? This may be a question you find yourself asking when considering to change your home phone out with this type network. This is a great way to reduce costs over time. Have you seen the Vonage commercials, I know I have. My question was not how does Voice over IP work but rather what in the heck is that? So I wanted to learn how to save money while taking yet another daring step into the future.
You can still get features such as redial, caller ID, call forwarding, and 3 way calling, basically anything you had on your old phone can come on this system.
Voice Over IP telephony works by packet switching instead of old circuit switching. When talking to someone, analog voice is changed into digital packets which are routed through the internet like websites. Your conversations are held over the internet. This is what makes this so much more cost effective than your old phone service. All calls are basically local calls because your call does not even leave the internet until it is at the switching station.
While there are a couple of points that you should consider before switching, I believe the switch is a step in the right direction. You should remember that you must have the internet in a Broadband form. If you have no power, you will lose your phone, but count back how many times have you lost your power, and didn't you make all your calls on your cell phone anyway because the only kind of phone you had was a cordless, that required the power to work anyway. So how is that change? Plus your batteries backups will still work and your phone can still receive and make calls. Your phone calls can even be forwarded to your cell phone so that you do not miss a beat in the case of a power outage.
For faxes you even can get a separate line to make iFaxes. If you do a lot of faxing from home. Which average homes do not. You have already changed your old dial up service to DSL or cable or even satellite. Who knew that you upgrading your internet could lead to a phone upgrade as well?
You can still get features such as redial, caller ID, call forwarding, and 3 way calling, basically anything you had on your old phone can come on this system.
Voice Over IP telephony works by packet switching instead of old circuit switching. When talking to someone, analog voice is changed into digital packets which are routed through the internet like websites. Your conversations are held over the internet. This is what makes this so much more cost effective than your old phone service. All calls are basically local calls because your call does not even leave the internet until it is at the switching station.
While there are a couple of points that you should consider before switching, I believe the switch is a step in the right direction. You should remember that you must have the internet in a Broadband form. If you have no power, you will lose your phone, but count back how many times have you lost your power, and didn't you make all your calls on your cell phone anyway because the only kind of phone you had was a cordless, that required the power to work anyway. So how is that change? Plus your batteries backups will still work and your phone can still receive and make calls. Your phone calls can even be forwarded to your cell phone so that you do not miss a beat in the case of a power outage.
For faxes you even can get a separate line to make iFaxes. If you do a lot of faxing from home. Which average homes do not. You have already changed your old dial up service to DSL or cable or even satellite. Who knew that you upgrading your internet could lead to a phone upgrade as well?
Friday, October 3, 2008
Use internet technology to 'phone home' when on holiday
Travelling abroad has always involved an element of adventure, but even as recently as 20 years ago visiting countries as technically advanced as the USA meant that you literally went into a communications black hole until your return. That is because the cost of transatlantic phone calls was so outrageously high that your entire holiday budget could be used up calling home, and that was just for a few minutes.
However, advances in competition amongst telephony companies have changed that. For example, travellers to the USA can purchase great value phone cards starting from as little as £5 for approximately 167 minutes of calls to a landline number in London. Or, if they prefer travellers can also call home using a mobile phone. But, even though that's not as relatively expensive as it was to use landlines at the end of the 1980s, it is still an expensive way to keep in touch with calls to home typically costing around £1.37 - £1.99 per minute outside Europe.
As technology has advanced the amount of differing communication methods have also grown exponentially. Now even without a landline or mobile phone, it is still possible to call home just as long as you are connected to the internet. VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) now enables broadband users to be able to communicate both freely and for free with anyone on the internet who has the same software installed.
Indeed, modern technology expands at such a phenomenal rate each year that nothing seems impossible when it comes to global communication. Logging into your email account when in the heart of Peru to send and receive messages or even using your laptop to make free calls to home via WiFi at the top of the CN Tower in Toronto; both are eminently possible in the 21st century.
Wherever you go in the world the internet has invariably got there first, unless the destination is extremely remote and off the beaten track. For those on extended holidays or especially back-packing then internet phone calls can be a great way to make sure everyone back home realises what a great time you are having, as well as a great way for you to keep in touch with happenings on the domestic front. But the real advantage is that you save your much needed cash to spend on essentials or fun activities and without having to spend it all it on expensive phone calls. So, before heading off to foreign parts make sure you open an internet VoIP account, and you'll have the ability to stay in touch just about wherever you go!
However, advances in competition amongst telephony companies have changed that. For example, travellers to the USA can purchase great value phone cards starting from as little as £5 for approximately 167 minutes of calls to a landline number in London. Or, if they prefer travellers can also call home using a mobile phone. But, even though that's not as relatively expensive as it was to use landlines at the end of the 1980s, it is still an expensive way to keep in touch with calls to home typically costing around £1.37 - £1.99 per minute outside Europe.
As technology has advanced the amount of differing communication methods have also grown exponentially. Now even without a landline or mobile phone, it is still possible to call home just as long as you are connected to the internet. VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) now enables broadband users to be able to communicate both freely and for free with anyone on the internet who has the same software installed.
Indeed, modern technology expands at such a phenomenal rate each year that nothing seems impossible when it comes to global communication. Logging into your email account when in the heart of Peru to send and receive messages or even using your laptop to make free calls to home via WiFi at the top of the CN Tower in Toronto; both are eminently possible in the 21st century.
Wherever you go in the world the internet has invariably got there first, unless the destination is extremely remote and off the beaten track. For those on extended holidays or especially back-packing then internet phone calls can be a great way to make sure everyone back home realises what a great time you are having, as well as a great way for you to keep in touch with happenings on the domestic front. But the real advantage is that you save your much needed cash to spend on essentials or fun activities and without having to spend it all it on expensive phone calls. So, before heading off to foreign parts make sure you open an internet VoIP account, and you'll have the ability to stay in touch just about wherever you go!
7 Habits of Highly Effective Technology Partnerships
Choose the software company you will hate the least." This was some of the advice that my friend and industry consultant Mike Sheffield provided several years ago to his audience at an mlm startup conference in Las Vegas. I cringed and thought "Wow, did I pick the right business? The best I can hope for is to be hated -the least," As the president of International Direct Selling Technology Corporation (IDSTC), a direct selling software company, the message was disturbing.
Some time has passed since that experience, and the good news is that I now know, and I'm sure Mike will agree, that you are not doomed to have a contentious relationship with your technology partner or IT department. More importantly, it is possible to have a productive, cost-effective relationship with your partner, and - holy cow! - you may even like and appreciate them. But a little background first.
I began my career in the direct-selling industry as a bonafide idealist and network marketing company owner. You know the profile - an unbridled enthusiasm and naiveté to match, with a plan to address all the shortcomings of the mlm strategy. Not to mention a really fair and powerful compensation plan and a cool product, to boot. With inevitable exponential growth and truckloads of cash to divvy up, the sales force would soon get rich, and I would, too!
Admittedly, eight years of executive management for a company that grew to over 100,000 sales representatives came at the expense of some of my idealism. One of the first dents in that idealism came fast in those early days. Everyone and their brother didn't jump on board like I knew they would. My partner Chris Kent, who arranged most of our original funding, was quick to create a new company sales plan and motivational mantra - a survival mantra is more like it. "GET SOME REPS!" he and I would scream at each other repeatedly throughout the day as we stuffed mailers and compiled binders.
We didn't start in the proverbial garage, but our 493 square feet of "class C" office space was certainly humble enough. What we had to do first for survival - and ultimately to be successful - was obvious, and we couldn't state it (or should I say, scream it) enough. In case you are wondering, I'll clarify a little bit later just how this relates to creating productive and successful technology partnerships.
In 1994, Chris and I launched Optimal Telecom. We engaged a consultant, hired a local attorney and purchased mlm software. The software was developed and supported by Target Data. For nearly five years, the mlm software did exactly what it was designed to do. However, in the latter part of 1998, the Internet and the first generation of web-based applications were really starting to take off. The Internet and its new technology offered a fabulous opportunity for us to be a leading-edge organization.
That's precisely what we wanted. So, we set out to replace our existing mlm software system with a new state-of-the-art application that would enhance our operational efficiencies and allow us to deliver to our field the latest and greatest online direct-selling tools at the time - replicated websites and back offices.
We found the industry's hottest mlm software company right in our own backyard, based less than a mile from our headquarters in downtown Tampa. Over the next few weeks we enthusiastically, but cautiously, completed our due diligence and verification of the software company's capabilities. They had only been in business for a couple of years, but based on our research we decided they had a bright and successful future ahead and selected them to be part of ours. That turned out to be the wrong decision as the software company was out of business within six months of securing our payment. Adding to the injury was the fact that the company did not deliver to us any functional software before packing up shop and heading off into the sunset.
Compounding the disaster, we had made another classic mistake, one you might recognize. We had already promised all of these new resources to our sales force, and the excitement was palpable. The field was growing impatient and less and less empathetic. After reevaluating all of our options, we did what we thought we needed to do at the time; we did it ourselves. We hired an IT staff and developed a proprietary system. (I would not recommend this strategy for the inexperienced, those who are short on time, or for poorly funded enterprises!)
You see, I've been in your shoes - managing and surviving through every aspect of the software/technology experience: buying, implementation, support, migration, disaster, chaos, drama, rebuilding and a new successful implementation and operations lifecycle. Now I'm on the other side of the technology partnership as the provider, so my insights should prove quite helpful to those of you who work with software providers. These habits can also be applied to in-house IT departments or other partners in general.
The real question is: what real world, experience-tested strategies result in a successful, long-term partnership? You as the client and your provider have to be committed partners to that goal. But where do you begin? Here is a not-so-technical primer on how to do it.
Habit 1. Be a Team: The Same-Team Paradigm
The relationship between a technology provider and the client involves several dimensions. For the client, one of the most significant concerns is the fear of not having control, and even worse, being controlled by, and at the mercy of some evil and manipulative software company. Coming to terms with this fear is essential to having a successful relationship. While tactical practices should be in place to handle these valid concerns and issues, addressing this aspect is important for your relationship to be effective.
From my observation of hundreds of client relationships, they all begin with an enthusiasm to get the project underway. Most begin with what I describe as a Two Team paradigm: the client team and the provider team. What I have come to understand is that this paradigm usually results in unnecessary inefficiencies and frustration. Notwithstanding good intentions, by its very nature a Two Team paradigm can easily result in an us-against-them, win-lose relationship. In the implementation and support of technology services, challenges and issues most certainly will arise and they must be handled. A win-lose approach in problem solving won't save you time and money, much less solve the tasks at hand any faster. More often than not, it actually slows things down.
A subtle change in perspective can produce a profound paradigm shift that can significantly improve the effectiveness and the overall relationship in general. This can be achieved early in the partnership by initiating, developing and nurturing a genuine Same Team paradigm. Clearly two parties are involved here, possibly more when third-party providers are involved. But the Same Team paradigm is founded upon the principle that everyone is actually on the same team, with the same objective: getting the client's system launched and supporting the business through its various stages of operations.
A Same Team paradigm invokes a pragmatic solution-oriented approach to achieving objectives and milestones. The Same Team paradigm establishes a spirit of collaboration and cooperation with all the players. As your relationship progresses and support for your business is going well, the Same Team paradigm continuously reflects upon how you support your provider in their effort to support you. When challenges arise (and they will), stay calm - don't start beating up your team. Think how you can work with the team to help solve the issues. Collaboration and cooperation are the key elements to a successful Same Team approach.
Habit 2. Collaborate, Cooperate & Synergize
Having the right person responsible for coordinating between your company and your technology provider is essential to creating synergy between the organizations. Whereas having several individuals who may not be in sync with each other interacting with your provider may cause misunderstandings and disorder. Determine who within your organization will be the project manager to coordinate with the project manager of your technology partner. Make sure the project manager you appoint has the operations experience, ability, authority and time to be effective.
Project management is fundamental to a technology partnership, and it requires collaboration and cooperation from all parties. Your technology partner should provide you with a detailed overview of their project management process and requirements. This should define the client responsibilities, deadlines, milestones, and delivery dates. You should be prepared to provide any information or feedback your provider needs to move on to the next stage in the process. Whether it's a clarification or a specification document authorization, being expeditious and responsive will enable the team to meet deadlines. This is of critical importance because many steps in application development are sequential in nature and dependent upon prior action or steps being completed.
Habit 3. Know the Rules, Play by the Rules.
Let's assume you've adopted a Same Team paradigm with your technology partner. The team needs to operate by a predetermined set of rules. These include the project management procedures and requirements, support policies and procedures, billing policies and payment terms, services available and pricing, terms of the agreement, user's guides, instructions and more. Your expectations for service, support and costs should be based entirely on this body of information; the rules. Software providers have policies and procedures in place that enable them support numerous clients simultaneously. Make sure these rules are compatible with your requirements and that you're able to comply with them. Of course you should expect great service and hold your partner to the same standard of compliance. Know the rules and play by the rules.
Habit 4. Get Some Face Time.
Have you experienced an email miscommunication, where one of your messages was taken out of context and a well intentioned message instead offended someone? Have you ever taken someone else's message out of context where the intent of the message was lost in interpretation? Have you worked long and hard through teleconferences and thought that the other party doesn't get it or just doesn't care? The reality in our business is that most communication takes place through online messages, email and phone calls. Not only does this invite a significant margin for error in the interpersonal experience between the staffs of your company and your technology provider, it lacks a fundamental ingredient for a great relationship: some face time.
So build into your schedule and budget a day or so to spend with your technology partner in person. The earlier in the relationship you do this, the better. Onsite visits, when practical, help build trust and friendship in a long term relationship. Visit a couple of times a year to continue building upon this important, but often overlooked personal foundation. In my experience, any rough patches in a client relationship are typically dissipated when working together in person.
Some time has passed since that experience, and the good news is that I now know, and I'm sure Mike will agree, that you are not doomed to have a contentious relationship with your technology partner or IT department. More importantly, it is possible to have a productive, cost-effective relationship with your partner, and - holy cow! - you may even like and appreciate them. But a little background first.
I began my career in the direct-selling industry as a bonafide idealist and network marketing company owner. You know the profile - an unbridled enthusiasm and naiveté to match, with a plan to address all the shortcomings of the mlm strategy. Not to mention a really fair and powerful compensation plan and a cool product, to boot. With inevitable exponential growth and truckloads of cash to divvy up, the sales force would soon get rich, and I would, too!
Admittedly, eight years of executive management for a company that grew to over 100,000 sales representatives came at the expense of some of my idealism. One of the first dents in that idealism came fast in those early days. Everyone and their brother didn't jump on board like I knew they would. My partner Chris Kent, who arranged most of our original funding, was quick to create a new company sales plan and motivational mantra - a survival mantra is more like it. "GET SOME REPS!" he and I would scream at each other repeatedly throughout the day as we stuffed mailers and compiled binders.
We didn't start in the proverbial garage, but our 493 square feet of "class C" office space was certainly humble enough. What we had to do first for survival - and ultimately to be successful - was obvious, and we couldn't state it (or should I say, scream it) enough. In case you are wondering, I'll clarify a little bit later just how this relates to creating productive and successful technology partnerships.
In 1994, Chris and I launched Optimal Telecom. We engaged a consultant, hired a local attorney and purchased mlm software. The software was developed and supported by Target Data. For nearly five years, the mlm software did exactly what it was designed to do. However, in the latter part of 1998, the Internet and the first generation of web-based applications were really starting to take off. The Internet and its new technology offered a fabulous opportunity for us to be a leading-edge organization.
That's precisely what we wanted. So, we set out to replace our existing mlm software system with a new state-of-the-art application that would enhance our operational efficiencies and allow us to deliver to our field the latest and greatest online direct-selling tools at the time - replicated websites and back offices.
We found the industry's hottest mlm software company right in our own backyard, based less than a mile from our headquarters in downtown Tampa. Over the next few weeks we enthusiastically, but cautiously, completed our due diligence and verification of the software company's capabilities. They had only been in business for a couple of years, but based on our research we decided they had a bright and successful future ahead and selected them to be part of ours. That turned out to be the wrong decision as the software company was out of business within six months of securing our payment. Adding to the injury was the fact that the company did not deliver to us any functional software before packing up shop and heading off into the sunset.
Compounding the disaster, we had made another classic mistake, one you might recognize. We had already promised all of these new resources to our sales force, and the excitement was palpable. The field was growing impatient and less and less empathetic. After reevaluating all of our options, we did what we thought we needed to do at the time; we did it ourselves. We hired an IT staff and developed a proprietary system. (I would not recommend this strategy for the inexperienced, those who are short on time, or for poorly funded enterprises!)
You see, I've been in your shoes - managing and surviving through every aspect of the software/technology experience: buying, implementation, support, migration, disaster, chaos, drama, rebuilding and a new successful implementation and operations lifecycle. Now I'm on the other side of the technology partnership as the provider, so my insights should prove quite helpful to those of you who work with software providers. These habits can also be applied to in-house IT departments or other partners in general.
The real question is: what real world, experience-tested strategies result in a successful, long-term partnership? You as the client and your provider have to be committed partners to that goal. But where do you begin? Here is a not-so-technical primer on how to do it.
Habit 1. Be a Team: The Same-Team Paradigm
The relationship between a technology provider and the client involves several dimensions. For the client, one of the most significant concerns is the fear of not having control, and even worse, being controlled by, and at the mercy of some evil and manipulative software company. Coming to terms with this fear is essential to having a successful relationship. While tactical practices should be in place to handle these valid concerns and issues, addressing this aspect is important for your relationship to be effective.
From my observation of hundreds of client relationships, they all begin with an enthusiasm to get the project underway. Most begin with what I describe as a Two Team paradigm: the client team and the provider team. What I have come to understand is that this paradigm usually results in unnecessary inefficiencies and frustration. Notwithstanding good intentions, by its very nature a Two Team paradigm can easily result in an us-against-them, win-lose relationship. In the implementation and support of technology services, challenges and issues most certainly will arise and they must be handled. A win-lose approach in problem solving won't save you time and money, much less solve the tasks at hand any faster. More often than not, it actually slows things down.
A subtle change in perspective can produce a profound paradigm shift that can significantly improve the effectiveness and the overall relationship in general. This can be achieved early in the partnership by initiating, developing and nurturing a genuine Same Team paradigm. Clearly two parties are involved here, possibly more when third-party providers are involved. But the Same Team paradigm is founded upon the principle that everyone is actually on the same team, with the same objective: getting the client's system launched and supporting the business through its various stages of operations.
A Same Team paradigm invokes a pragmatic solution-oriented approach to achieving objectives and milestones. The Same Team paradigm establishes a spirit of collaboration and cooperation with all the players. As your relationship progresses and support for your business is going well, the Same Team paradigm continuously reflects upon how you support your provider in their effort to support you. When challenges arise (and they will), stay calm - don't start beating up your team. Think how you can work with the team to help solve the issues. Collaboration and cooperation are the key elements to a successful Same Team approach.
Habit 2. Collaborate, Cooperate & Synergize
Having the right person responsible for coordinating between your company and your technology provider is essential to creating synergy between the organizations. Whereas having several individuals who may not be in sync with each other interacting with your provider may cause misunderstandings and disorder. Determine who within your organization will be the project manager to coordinate with the project manager of your technology partner. Make sure the project manager you appoint has the operations experience, ability, authority and time to be effective.
Project management is fundamental to a technology partnership, and it requires collaboration and cooperation from all parties. Your technology partner should provide you with a detailed overview of their project management process and requirements. This should define the client responsibilities, deadlines, milestones, and delivery dates. You should be prepared to provide any information or feedback your provider needs to move on to the next stage in the process. Whether it's a clarification or a specification document authorization, being expeditious and responsive will enable the team to meet deadlines. This is of critical importance because many steps in application development are sequential in nature and dependent upon prior action or steps being completed.
Habit 3. Know the Rules, Play by the Rules.
Let's assume you've adopted a Same Team paradigm with your technology partner. The team needs to operate by a predetermined set of rules. These include the project management procedures and requirements, support policies and procedures, billing policies and payment terms, services available and pricing, terms of the agreement, user's guides, instructions and more. Your expectations for service, support and costs should be based entirely on this body of information; the rules. Software providers have policies and procedures in place that enable them support numerous clients simultaneously. Make sure these rules are compatible with your requirements and that you're able to comply with them. Of course you should expect great service and hold your partner to the same standard of compliance. Know the rules and play by the rules.
Habit 4. Get Some Face Time.
Have you experienced an email miscommunication, where one of your messages was taken out of context and a well intentioned message instead offended someone? Have you ever taken someone else's message out of context where the intent of the message was lost in interpretation? Have you worked long and hard through teleconferences and thought that the other party doesn't get it or just doesn't care? The reality in our business is that most communication takes place through online messages, email and phone calls. Not only does this invite a significant margin for error in the interpersonal experience between the staffs of your company and your technology provider, it lacks a fundamental ingredient for a great relationship: some face time.
So build into your schedule and budget a day or so to spend with your technology partner in person. The earlier in the relationship you do this, the better. Onsite visits, when practical, help build trust and friendship in a long term relationship. Visit a couple of times a year to continue building upon this important, but often overlooked personal foundation. In my experience, any rough patches in a client relationship are typically dissipated when working together in person.
You Get A Variety Of Options With Dish Network Satellite TV
It seems that nowadays there is a trend that has people constantly scrambling in order to get all of the entertainment television programming that they can possibly get access to. There are many people who just love to watch all of the top TV shows and newly released movies on their home television entertainment systems. They feel that having a dish network satellite service is the absolute best way to get programming that gives them everything they are looking for, and sometimes even more.
There are two primary components that you need to have in order to get your news, sports and entertainment via a TV satellite dish system. The first component is the satellite dish antenna that captures the programming broadcast signal, which then relays that signal to the second component; the satellite TV receiver. This receiver then decodes the signal from the dish antenna and turns it into a signal that can be transmitted to your television.
This means that once a dish network satellite system has been properly installed, access to a huge selection of television programming from the comfort of your own home is obtainable. Because these satellite dish antenna installations do not need to be attached to any kind of physical network, like the cable companies must have for cable TV, these satellite TV systems are more flexible and are more widely available, especially in the more rural areas.
A home dish network system picks up programming signals that are transmitted from the various satellites, which are orbiting thousands of miles above the surface of the earth. Many of the satellite dish antenna units now come with dual receivers, thereby receiving broadcasts from two different satellites at the same time, making it possible for a household to feed programming to two different televisions in the house. This has allowed the satellite TV companies to offer programming packages that include even more options.
At the same time, the dual receivers that are more common these days also allow you to use the picture in a picture, or PIP, function that is now a standard feature of so many of today's televisions. This allows you to essentially be watching two shows at the same time with one channel being shown full size and the second being shown as a smaller picture within the large picture. Since you can see what is going on both channels you can easily switch back and forth between the two programs.
Another advantage of these dual receivers is that it allows the dish network satellite system to record one television program while you watch a second program, if you have a DVR, or digital video recorder. The DVRs are becoming a very popular option that many people are adding to their satellite TV systems today because it gives them freedom from the constraints of the broadcasting schedule.
There are two primary components that you need to have in order to get your news, sports and entertainment via a TV satellite dish system. The first component is the satellite dish antenna that captures the programming broadcast signal, which then relays that signal to the second component; the satellite TV receiver. This receiver then decodes the signal from the dish antenna and turns it into a signal that can be transmitted to your television.
This means that once a dish network satellite system has been properly installed, access to a huge selection of television programming from the comfort of your own home is obtainable. Because these satellite dish antenna installations do not need to be attached to any kind of physical network, like the cable companies must have for cable TV, these satellite TV systems are more flexible and are more widely available, especially in the more rural areas.
A home dish network system picks up programming signals that are transmitted from the various satellites, which are orbiting thousands of miles above the surface of the earth. Many of the satellite dish antenna units now come with dual receivers, thereby receiving broadcasts from two different satellites at the same time, making it possible for a household to feed programming to two different televisions in the house. This has allowed the satellite TV companies to offer programming packages that include even more options.
At the same time, the dual receivers that are more common these days also allow you to use the picture in a picture, or PIP, function that is now a standard feature of so many of today's televisions. This allows you to essentially be watching two shows at the same time with one channel being shown full size and the second being shown as a smaller picture within the large picture. Since you can see what is going on both channels you can easily switch back and forth between the two programs.
Another advantage of these dual receivers is that it allows the dish network satellite system to record one television program while you watch a second program, if you have a DVR, or digital video recorder. The DVRs are becoming a very popular option that many people are adding to their satellite TV systems today because it gives them freedom from the constraints of the broadcasting schedule.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Four Out Of Five Do Not Trust Companies With Personal Data
Low levels of consumer trust in how businesses manage and secure customer data could put companies at risk, according to a study by Symantec  Nearly four out of five people in Britain believe their personal information is insecure in the hands of the companies that hold the data, according to a recent survey by Symantec Corp (Nasdaq: SYMC) and Moneysupermarket.com, the online price comparison site.  The research was commissioned by Symantec to assess attitudes towards online risks from both a consumer and business perspective.   An even higher number, 89 per cent of respondents, believes that reckless or repeated data breaches should be a criminal matter and punishable by imprisonment, with four out of five people saying it should be a ‘one strike and you’re out’ rule when it comes to data loss.  This low level of consumer trust could have a vast impact on the reputation and brand value of a company, when taking into account the response from businesses. Not only did the majority of companies polled (76 per cent) expect to lose customers if a data loss or breach occur, about half of them expected it to be immediate.   “These statistics are very concerning for business, particularly in the current unstable market conditions,†said John Brigden, senior vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Symantec. “Not only do they risk losing large numbers of customers following an incident of data loss, but almost 60 per cent of companies said it would be a lot harder to attract new customers once the reputation had been tarnished.â€Â  A further 75 per cent of consumers are concerned by how much information companies hold about them, whether online or offline, and a staggering 93 per cent will not provide personal details to a company which has past problems of losing data. When questioned on the trustworthiness of public companies, half of those polled rated the Government as the least trustworthy organisation.   “Today we all have an enormous digital footprint, whether we realise it or not,†said Brigden. “Every time we shop online, bank online or increasingly simply surf the web, we are giving away our personal information, and clearly people are concerned how businesses and government handle that data.â€Â  Out of sight, out of mind Despite their strong views, people are not careful when it comes to protecting their own information, with 73 per cent of respondents not checking what happens to their credit card information when it leaves their sight and 18 per cent not verifying the security of websites they use. When they do verify a website’s security, two thirds of respondents have indicated they check for the padlock, 30 per cent use security software, 27 per cent only use websites from a trusted brand and 11 per cent follow friends’ recommendations of safe sites.  Additionally, 89 per cent would share their name and 23 per cent their date of birth with a complete stranger. Respondents estimated the monetary value of their name at £1 and date of birth at £100, when in fact their full identity is worth a mere 50p, according to Symantec’s latest Internet Security Threat Report, released in April this year.  Even though half those surveyed voted online payments as the most likely risk of losing data, the credit crunch has forced the vast majority to turn to the Internet to shop, with 84 per cent confirming that they surf the web for the best deals. Seventy five per cent are more likely to shop online for items now than they were six months ago, which is a clear indication that consumers are first and foremost concerned about price â€" and not necessarily for their safety.   Clare Francis, from price comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said: “Over the past year we have seen an incredible upturn in applications for current accounts and credit cards on our site. However, it is when people start using these market-leading debit and credit cards that they need to be vigilant with their information. It is great to be earning 8.5 per cent on your current account or paying no interest for 12 months on credit card purchases, but you need to look after your personal information to ensure other people can’t start using your details.â€Â  Brigden added: “While fingers have been pointed at organisations that have lost customer data recently, it is also the responsibility of consumers to protect themselves when it comes to data risk â€" a sentiment that is shared by 84 per cent of respondents. No security measure can be fully effective unless people are more responsible and recognize that they too have a vital part to play in protecting their information.†  Based upon the research, Symantec has put together the below consumer personality profiles for which most of the population fall into:  SYMANTEC CONSUMER PERSONALITY PROFILES  Wealthy Warriors Representing one quarter of people in Britain, ‘Wealthy Worriers’ are the least affected by the credit crunch and, having accumulated their wealth over the years, need not shop around for better deals. However, they have a high level of concern that their data is insecure and, as a result, also place a higher value on all their personal information.
Cagey Crunchers Cagey Crunchers represents nearly a quarter of the nation. They are the most price-conscious folk and, as they have been affected by the credit crunch in one way or another, these consumers incessantly look for the best bargains. Consistent with their wary style, they are also web-savvy and keep a close eye on online security.
Serene Surfers As the third largest group, Serene Surfers represents nearly one in five British people. With a neutral attitude towards the credit crunch and being web-savvy, this middle-aged group are enthusiastic Internet shoppers and more likely to shop online now than they were six months ago. Due to their alertness to Internet fraud and the high value they place on their personal information, they believe these details are in safe hands.
Restless Retributionists ‘Restless Retributionists’ are of the younger population and, with most being financially unstable, they are forced to find the cheapest prices amidst the current economic situation. They are highly concerned about the number of people and companies who keep their personal information and, trying to hold the moral high ground, they have the strongest feelings towards reckless or repeated data breaches, and believe it should be a criminal matter and punishable by imprisonment.
Optimistic Ostriches Only one in ten people fall into the ‘Optimistic Ostriches’ group. These happy-go-lucky British are indifferent to the credit crunch and only somewhat concerned that their data is insecure, while not placing a high value on this information. Not surprisingly, Optimistic Ostriches are less likely to check what happens to their personal information and are more willing to forgive the companies that lose this data.
Cagey Crunchers Cagey Crunchers represents nearly a quarter of the nation. They are the most price-conscious folk and, as they have been affected by the credit crunch in one way or another, these consumers incessantly look for the best bargains. Consistent with their wary style, they are also web-savvy and keep a close eye on online security.
Serene Surfers As the third largest group, Serene Surfers represents nearly one in five British people. With a neutral attitude towards the credit crunch and being web-savvy, this middle-aged group are enthusiastic Internet shoppers and more likely to shop online now than they were six months ago. Due to their alertness to Internet fraud and the high value they place on their personal information, they believe these details are in safe hands.
Restless Retributionists ‘Restless Retributionists’ are of the younger population and, with most being financially unstable, they are forced to find the cheapest prices amidst the current economic situation. They are highly concerned about the number of people and companies who keep their personal information and, trying to hold the moral high ground, they have the strongest feelings towards reckless or repeated data breaches, and believe it should be a criminal matter and punishable by imprisonment.
Optimistic Ostriches Only one in ten people fall into the ‘Optimistic Ostriches’ group. These happy-go-lucky British are indifferent to the credit crunch and only somewhat concerned that their data is insecure, while not placing a high value on this information. Not surprisingly, Optimistic Ostriches are less likely to check what happens to their personal information and are more willing to forgive the companies that lose this data.
GPS Fleet Management - How Technology Can Help Reduce Your Running Costs
Major advances in technology and manufacturing has meant that GPS Tracking technology is now readily available, and affordable to both businesses and consumers alike.
GPS is now seen as a necessity for anyone who has a fleet of vehicles and is interested in using them daily. It may seem to an average man that where does the need for GPS tracking arise when everything is going on well without it.
GPS Tracking systems offer a number of benefits to their owners. In this article we will focus on the benefits of GPS Tracking devices installed in vehicles and fleets.
With the rising cost of fuel a GPS Tracking device fitted to a vehicle can help to increase the awareness of the efficiency of the driving, or how much fuel is being consumed. It can also help business locate the whereabouts of a company vehicle and if necessary, allocate them to a new job request that is close to their location. Not only does this help to improve the efficiency of your fleet, but also provides your customers with a much improved, responsive service.
Probably one of the most obvious reasons for installing GPS Tracking devices in fleet is to track the location of your vehicle either when out on a job, or if the vehicle is lost or stolen.
Technology such as geofencing will allow the owner of a fleet to receive alerts if the vehicle breaks a virtual boundary, useful if you suspect your employees are using your company vehicles for something other than work.
Another area of importance that can result in cost savings for your business is Insurance. Generally, Insurance companies know that vehicles that have GPS Tracking devices installed are less prone to accidents and thefts. This alone can contribute to about 15-20% savings in your bill.
In today's business world, with increased pressure and profit expectations, the Investment of a GPS Tracking device to assist with the management of your fleet is a necessity.
GPS is now seen as a necessity for anyone who has a fleet of vehicles and is interested in using them daily. It may seem to an average man that where does the need for GPS tracking arise when everything is going on well without it.
GPS Tracking systems offer a number of benefits to their owners. In this article we will focus on the benefits of GPS Tracking devices installed in vehicles and fleets.
With the rising cost of fuel a GPS Tracking device fitted to a vehicle can help to increase the awareness of the efficiency of the driving, or how much fuel is being consumed. It can also help business locate the whereabouts of a company vehicle and if necessary, allocate them to a new job request that is close to their location. Not only does this help to improve the efficiency of your fleet, but also provides your customers with a much improved, responsive service.
Probably one of the most obvious reasons for installing GPS Tracking devices in fleet is to track the location of your vehicle either when out on a job, or if the vehicle is lost or stolen.
Technology such as geofencing will allow the owner of a fleet to receive alerts if the vehicle breaks a virtual boundary, useful if you suspect your employees are using your company vehicles for something other than work.
Another area of importance that can result in cost savings for your business is Insurance. Generally, Insurance companies know that vehicles that have GPS Tracking devices installed are less prone to accidents and thefts. This alone can contribute to about 15-20% savings in your bill.
In today's business world, with increased pressure and profit expectations, the Investment of a GPS Tracking device to assist with the management of your fleet is a necessity.
Hertzler Systems Issues White Paper Based on Aberdeen Group Research
Hertzler Systems Inc. announced the release of a new white paper on the role of real-time data in improving profitability and customer satisfaction. The white paper is based on independent research by the Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company (NYSE:HSS), and identifies the top drivers of Best-in-Class performance among manufacturing companies.
Hertzler Systems has released a new white paper describing the role of real-time data in improving profitability and customer satisfaction in manufacturing businesses. The white paper, grounded in data uncovered in independent research by the Aberdeen Group, provides additional insights into the key drivers of best-in-class performance.
Evan Miller, President of Hertzler Systems explained: "We wrote the white paper to offer additional guidance for understanding the Aberdeen report on Event Driven Manufacturing Intelligence. As we parsed the data ourselves we found some interesting insights that didn’t ‘leap off the page’ at us on the first read. Specifically, we found that ready access to actionable real-time data is a key driver of Best-in-Class business performance."
The research data show that Best-in-Class performers enjoy a 33% higher profit margin than average and laggard performers. “What we wanted to know,†said Miller, “is what Best-in-Class manufacturers do that is different from the other groups. We now have clear answers to this question.â€
The white paper is available at no charge at http://www.hertzler.com/php/portfolio/white.paper.detail.php?article=37
Hertzler Systems (www.hertzler.com) provides seamless, accurate data acquisition solutions that drive business transformation. The company provides the leading real-time data acquisition and analytics software, the GainSeeker Suite. This powerful and flexible system is best used by lean and progressive companies. Gainseeker Suite allows companies to connect with devices and other information systems, collecting data and alarming key personnel when problems arise; this technology allows organizations to analyze data for root cause problems, converting data into knowledge.
Hertzler Systems has been a leader in Statistical Process Control and Six Sigma for over twenty years, and includes a diverse customer base in service, transactional and manufacturing environments; clients include BAE Systems, Crown Audio, IDEX Corporation, McCormick & Company, Inc., Hormel Foods Corporation, Titleist & Footjoy, and TaylorMade-Adidas Golf Worldwide. The company's software and services enable clients to collect and analyze data; building a robust data infrastructure for making data-driven decisions. These capabilities help clients to reduce costs, cycle time and errors, and increase profitability.
Hertzler Systems has released a new white paper describing the role of real-time data in improving profitability and customer satisfaction in manufacturing businesses. The white paper, grounded in data uncovered in independent research by the Aberdeen Group, provides additional insights into the key drivers of best-in-class performance.
Evan Miller, President of Hertzler Systems explained: "We wrote the white paper to offer additional guidance for understanding the Aberdeen report on Event Driven Manufacturing Intelligence. As we parsed the data ourselves we found some interesting insights that didn’t ‘leap off the page’ at us on the first read. Specifically, we found that ready access to actionable real-time data is a key driver of Best-in-Class business performance."
The research data show that Best-in-Class performers enjoy a 33% higher profit margin than average and laggard performers. “What we wanted to know,†said Miller, “is what Best-in-Class manufacturers do that is different from the other groups. We now have clear answers to this question.â€
The white paper is available at no charge at http://www.hertzler.com/php/portfolio/white.paper.detail.php?article=37
Hertzler Systems (www.hertzler.com) provides seamless, accurate data acquisition solutions that drive business transformation. The company provides the leading real-time data acquisition and analytics software, the GainSeeker Suite. This powerful and flexible system is best used by lean and progressive companies. Gainseeker Suite allows companies to connect with devices and other information systems, collecting data and alarming key personnel when problems arise; this technology allows organizations to analyze data for root cause problems, converting data into knowledge.
Hertzler Systems has been a leader in Statistical Process Control and Six Sigma for over twenty years, and includes a diverse customer base in service, transactional and manufacturing environments; clients include BAE Systems, Crown Audio, IDEX Corporation, McCormick & Company, Inc., Hormel Foods Corporation, Titleist & Footjoy, and TaylorMade-Adidas Golf Worldwide. The company's software and services enable clients to collect and analyze data; building a robust data infrastructure for making data-driven decisions. These capabilities help clients to reduce costs, cycle time and errors, and increase profitability.
How To Do It Yourself Solar Power-It's Cheaper Than You Think
Who wouldn't want to save hundreds of dollars annually on their energy bills? You can do it by tapping into the growing how to do it yourself solar power market. The average joe can do it even though this technology is only beginning to grow in popularity. For under $200.00 you can set up a portable solar power system that will power any appliances or lights you need.
I found an excellent resource for this at Earth 4 Energy. The creator of this e-manual has found an innovative way to build portable and cost-effective energy systems for low costs. Also, he explains how to build a windmill system if that would work well in your area. Many people sell the extra electricity they generate to their local power companies. Every little detail of the systems are covered and explained so that you will be able to build your own systems immediately after reading.
I have personally used the Earth 4 Energy and was impressed with the amount of information available for the price of $50.00. I am not a very saavy do-it-yourself kind of person and I was able to follow the how to do it yourself solar power information with relative ease. I use it everyday to power my appliances and it only took me about four hours to build from start to finish.
There are also a couple extras included with the Earth 4 Energy product. There are some detailed articles regarding how you can reduce your oil dependence and also how you can save money by using ethanol as an alternative fuel source.
But without a doubt, the most innovative and valuable part of the product is the how to do it yourself solar power information. Take a look at it now, $50.00 is an incredibly small investment when you are going to be saving hundreds in the long term and helping the Earth out.
Rising costs of living and global warming issues are definitely signs that it is time to save money and stop harming the environment whereever possible. You and I can definitely be among the few who help to reduce the trend by opting for do it yourself solar power solutions.
I found an excellent resource for this at Earth 4 Energy. The creator of this e-manual has found an innovative way to build portable and cost-effective energy systems for low costs. Also, he explains how to build a windmill system if that would work well in your area. Many people sell the extra electricity they generate to their local power companies. Every little detail of the systems are covered and explained so that you will be able to build your own systems immediately after reading.
I have personally used the Earth 4 Energy and was impressed with the amount of information available for the price of $50.00. I am not a very saavy do-it-yourself kind of person and I was able to follow the how to do it yourself solar power information with relative ease. I use it everyday to power my appliances and it only took me about four hours to build from start to finish.
There are also a couple extras included with the Earth 4 Energy product. There are some detailed articles regarding how you can reduce your oil dependence and also how you can save money by using ethanol as an alternative fuel source.
But without a doubt, the most innovative and valuable part of the product is the how to do it yourself solar power information. Take a look at it now, $50.00 is an incredibly small investment when you are going to be saving hundreds in the long term and helping the Earth out.
Rising costs of living and global warming issues are definitely signs that it is time to save money and stop harming the environment whereever possible. You and I can definitely be among the few who help to reduce the trend by opting for do it yourself solar power solutions.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Get the Right TV Stand for Your TV
In the modern world, television sets are not just for watching. Now, they are purchased to display and create a focal point as well. Because of this, it is now more important than ever to get the right kind of stand for your television set. You want to find something that will best compliment the TV and set the piece of equipment apart from the other items that are in the room.
First, decide what your goals are with displaying your television set. Do you want to make the television the focal point of your room? Do you plan on it being the most prominent piece of equipment that you have displayed? Do you want the television to be the first thing that is noticed when guests come into the room?
Is the television the only thing that you intend to have on the stand? If that is the case, you might want to get a smaller television stand. That will allow the TV to look even bigger and it will become more of a display item. The stand will not overshadow the TV that you want to display.
If you want to have other things on your TV stand, then you need to get a bigger stand. Keep in mind that if you get too big of a TV stand, it could end up swallowing your television set. Because of that, you want to get one that is big enough for you to place the items that you want on it comfortably, but you do not want to get one that is bigger than you need it to be.
Also, decide what kind of material you would like to be used in your stand. Some people like the way that a glass stand makes the television set really stand out, while others like the classic look of wood. Decide which one will go best with the room that the stand will be placed, as well as which kind gives you the look that you are trying to achieved. Imagine both a wooden and a glass stand in your home and see which one looks better in your mind. Then you will be able to decide what kind of material you want to be used.
Then, make sure that you find a TV stand that is sturdy enough for the television that you are displaying. If you have a big TV that is heavy, you need to make sure that the stand that you purchase can handle the weight. Make sure that the stand is well made so you do not have any problems with it in the future.
A TV stand is a piece of furniture, which is why you should choose carefully before you make a purchase. Most people stick with the same TV stand for years, which means that you want to get something that you will like for a long time to come. Get something that will last, both because it has good looks and it is well made.
First, decide what your goals are with displaying your television set. Do you want to make the television the focal point of your room? Do you plan on it being the most prominent piece of equipment that you have displayed? Do you want the television to be the first thing that is noticed when guests come into the room?
Is the television the only thing that you intend to have on the stand? If that is the case, you might want to get a smaller television stand. That will allow the TV to look even bigger and it will become more of a display item. The stand will not overshadow the TV that you want to display.
If you want to have other things on your TV stand, then you need to get a bigger stand. Keep in mind that if you get too big of a TV stand, it could end up swallowing your television set. Because of that, you want to get one that is big enough for you to place the items that you want on it comfortably, but you do not want to get one that is bigger than you need it to be.
Also, decide what kind of material you would like to be used in your stand. Some people like the way that a glass stand makes the television set really stand out, while others like the classic look of wood. Decide which one will go best with the room that the stand will be placed, as well as which kind gives you the look that you are trying to achieved. Imagine both a wooden and a glass stand in your home and see which one looks better in your mind. Then you will be able to decide what kind of material you want to be used.
Then, make sure that you find a TV stand that is sturdy enough for the television that you are displaying. If you have a big TV that is heavy, you need to make sure that the stand that you purchase can handle the weight. Make sure that the stand is well made so you do not have any problems with it in the future.
A TV stand is a piece of furniture, which is why you should choose carefully before you make a purchase. Most people stick with the same TV stand for years, which means that you want to get something that you will like for a long time to come. Get something that will last, both because it has good looks and it is well made.
Thermal Imaging Cameras Offer Economical Solutions for a Variety of Diagnostic Applications
cameras, thermal imaging technology is now an effective problem solving, analysis and preventive maintenance tool for a variety of applications. Thermal imaging cameras are light weight, ergonomic, intuitive and contain high resolution thermal detectors that offer valuable temperature information to isolate problems. This article offers an explanation of the technology and the applications for which it is well suited.
Thermal Imaging Cameras function much like digital photographic cameras except they take a thermal picture. The detectors measure infrared radiation which is then converted to electrical signals in order to create a visual representation of the heat an object gives off. The visual representation displays cooler items in shades of blue and hotter items in shades of red and can be analyzed and formatted on a computer via a USB download.
When deciding on a thermal imaging camera, the primary features to consider include the resolution, accuracy and temperature range. The resolution is measured by pixels. Because every pixel on the screen is a discrete temperature reading, the more pixels the camera has, the more detail the thermal picture will be. Accuracy is measured in terms of a percentage of the value of the reading. Most cameras have accuracy's between 2-5%. Finally, thermal cameras are limited to a specified temperature range. If your application deals with extreme heat or cold, you should make sure the camera is capable of taking those measurements.
While the general specifications from one camera to the next are similar, high-end cameras typically offer additional features you may find useful. Many cameras offer photographic overlays of the thermal picture. This is ideal for identification of detailed components and their proximity to each other in the thermal picture. Cameras intended for the building inspection and HVAC industries offer dew point and insulation alarms useful in locating areas of moisture or insufficient insulation. Some cameras even offer voice annotation to document and flashlights to illuminate dark areas.
There are numerous applications for thermal imaging cameras that, prior to the introduction of low-cost offerings, were previously cost inhibitive. The heat signature of electrical circuits and machine components may precipitate future problems and failures. HVAC systems and building structures display obvious thermal visualizations of inefficiencies, insufficient insulation, moisture and loose duct fittings. Pest Control professionals can identify infestations inside of walls or enclosed areas as a result of nesting areas displaying higher temperatures than surrounding areas. Plumbing professionals locate blockages in pipes and law enforcement agencies are aided in finding hidden suspects. Even paranormal investigators find thermal imaging cameras an aide in their discovery.
Thermal imaging cameras cost as little as $3,000, making them an economical analysis and diagnostic tool for a number of professions. Many people probably do not consider thermography as a viable preventative maintenance or diagnostic solution based on preconceived notions of price or a lack of knowledge on thermographic applications. However, those who have invested in the technology have found a way to differentiate their business from competition and reduce the overhead associated with "old-school" methods.
Thermal Imaging Cameras function much like digital photographic cameras except they take a thermal picture. The detectors measure infrared radiation which is then converted to electrical signals in order to create a visual representation of the heat an object gives off. The visual representation displays cooler items in shades of blue and hotter items in shades of red and can be analyzed and formatted on a computer via a USB download.
When deciding on a thermal imaging camera, the primary features to consider include the resolution, accuracy and temperature range. The resolution is measured by pixels. Because every pixel on the screen is a discrete temperature reading, the more pixels the camera has, the more detail the thermal picture will be. Accuracy is measured in terms of a percentage of the value of the reading. Most cameras have accuracy's between 2-5%. Finally, thermal cameras are limited to a specified temperature range. If your application deals with extreme heat or cold, you should make sure the camera is capable of taking those measurements.
While the general specifications from one camera to the next are similar, high-end cameras typically offer additional features you may find useful. Many cameras offer photographic overlays of the thermal picture. This is ideal for identification of detailed components and their proximity to each other in the thermal picture. Cameras intended for the building inspection and HVAC industries offer dew point and insulation alarms useful in locating areas of moisture or insufficient insulation. Some cameras even offer voice annotation to document and flashlights to illuminate dark areas.
There are numerous applications for thermal imaging cameras that, prior to the introduction of low-cost offerings, were previously cost inhibitive. The heat signature of electrical circuits and machine components may precipitate future problems and failures. HVAC systems and building structures display obvious thermal visualizations of inefficiencies, insufficient insulation, moisture and loose duct fittings. Pest Control professionals can identify infestations inside of walls or enclosed areas as a result of nesting areas displaying higher temperatures than surrounding areas. Plumbing professionals locate blockages in pipes and law enforcement agencies are aided in finding hidden suspects. Even paranormal investigators find thermal imaging cameras an aide in their discovery.
Thermal imaging cameras cost as little as $3,000, making them an economical analysis and diagnostic tool for a number of professions. Many people probably do not consider thermography as a viable preventative maintenance or diagnostic solution based on preconceived notions of price or a lack of knowledge on thermographic applications. However, those who have invested in the technology have found a way to differentiate their business from competition and reduce the overhead associated with "old-school" methods.
Monday, September 8, 2008
I need a Security Camera
Choosing the correct Surveillance Camera for your specific application, can sometimes be overwhelming, here are a few questions to ask yourself before making a decision.
* Will the Camera be used outside or inside?
* Do you want the Camera to be able to see in the dark (Infrared or LED)?
* What style of Camera are you looking for (Dome, Bullet, Covert, PTZ, or Board Camera)?
* What Resolution quality are you looking for (TVL)?
* What is the distance you want to view, and the width and height of that area?
* Do you need a Vandal Proof Camera? * Is the Camera directly exposed to the elements (does it need a heated exterior housing)?
* Is your existing wiring 12 Volt or 24 Volt?
* How far will you have to wire the cameras (RG59 Siamese Coaxial should not be run further than 800')?
* Will I be running power over Ethernet (most cameras will not allow this, however more and more IP Cameras are coming with this option)?
* Wireless (most wireless options have to be "clear line of site" to work)?
* Are you looking for a Camera with analytics (this will be an IP Camera)?
We often hear our customers say, "I need a Security Camera" and our staff starts down the list of questions above along with many others to find the correct Camera for our customer's application. The PCSurveillance.net team is here to help answer your questions. Our goal is to provide you with clear and concise information to help you make an educated decision. Our team has years of surveillance experience and our here to help you!
* Will the Camera be used outside or inside?
* Do you want the Camera to be able to see in the dark (Infrared or LED)?
* What style of Camera are you looking for (Dome, Bullet, Covert, PTZ, or Board Camera)?
* What Resolution quality are you looking for (TVL)?
* What is the distance you want to view, and the width and height of that area?
* Do you need a Vandal Proof Camera? * Is the Camera directly exposed to the elements (does it need a heated exterior housing)?
* Is your existing wiring 12 Volt or 24 Volt?
* How far will you have to wire the cameras (RG59 Siamese Coaxial should not be run further than 800')?
* Will I be running power over Ethernet (most cameras will not allow this, however more and more IP Cameras are coming with this option)?
* Wireless (most wireless options have to be "clear line of site" to work)?
* Are you looking for a Camera with analytics (this will be an IP Camera)?
We often hear our customers say, "I need a Security Camera" and our staff starts down the list of questions above along with many others to find the correct Camera for our customer's application. The PCSurveillance.net team is here to help answer your questions. Our goal is to provide you with clear and concise information to help you make an educated decision. Our team has years of surveillance experience and our here to help you!
Fuel saving Technoligy
Official Statement of Performance on MPG-CAP™
There appears to be a need for clarification about the technology behind the FFi MPG-CAPS™ due to confusion caused by other less credible fuel additives with similar sounding marketing claims.
First of all, the majority of fuel additives, treatments, and conditioners sold today are merely detergents that serve to clean the fuel system but do nothing to the combustion characteristics of fuel or, more importantly, to the combustion chamber itself. This is the arena in which FFi technology and products are formulated to perform, providing the distinction between our products and all the others.
Since most automobile engines burn fuel at a rate of more than 99% efficiency, claims of improving combustion alone are essentially meaningless. However, the greatest loss in the efficiency of an automobile engine is the loss of heat, which drives the piston. Experts in the combustion field say that heat recovery is the only practical way to improve gas mileage on a modern engine. Our product is a combustion chamber treatment that conditions the setting where fuel combustion occurs so that the process uses more of the heat generated by combustion.
Here is the way it works. When an MPG-CAP™ is added to the fuel tank, the fuel carries it to the combustion chamber. Its ingredients are used to treat the metal surfaces by forming a film that is technically called thermally derived oxidation. The carboxylic metal creates an oxide residue on the hot surfaces at the time of combustion.
This process can be compared to the scorching of a pan when cooking. When overheated, the food residue forms a layer on the pan when it is oxidized; leaving a film even after being scrubbed that discolors the pan and appears to permeate the pores of the metal.
Inside an engine cylinder, small amounts of material provided by the MPG-CAPS™ oxidize in high temperatures, rapidly producing a thin layer of film on the cylinder walls, the piston face, and the fire deck that provide several benefits.
First of all, the MPG-CAPS™ changes the surface heat absorption characteristics of the metal. The fuel and air mixture produces energy in the form of heat that creates expansion that drives the piston down, and the film inhibits the transfer of radiant heat. This directly results in higher combustion temperature, greater expansion, and more power.
The second benefit the MPG-CAP™ film provides is a polished surface effect that allows more even distribution of the fuel. It can be compared to the beading of water on a polished paint job. The microfilm attracts the liquid fuel resulting in better fuel distribution that shapes the charge to yield more power.
The third benefit of the film is by serving as a catalyst precursor to react with the catalyst component in the MPG-CAPS™ themselves. The active compounds of the MPG-CAPS™ in combination with the heat in the cylinder cause a catalytic reaction that promotes better disassociation of chemicals and better burn. The catalytic reaction is also exothermic and produces heat. Altogether, these three benefits result in a total of 30 to 40% more expansion in the cylinder with an equal amount of fuel.
Another factor to be considered is the ability of the film created by the MPG-CAPS™ to inhibit the build-up of harmful deposits. This is particularly important in view of the effects that the EPA regulations have had on the automobile industry. In order to comply with EPA mandates to lower emissions, fuel manufacturers have removed lead and added oxygenates to fuel. The repercussion is the building of harmful deposits that tend to soak up fuel and cause performance problems. Decreasing the extent of those deposits is yet another benefit of our product.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly of all, is the reduction of emissions resulting from the use of MPG-CAPS™. The catalytic process found in catalytic converters on exhaust systems is started in the firing cylinder, which reduces the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The work done by the converter is reduced, and life of the converter is extended.
Extensive scientific testing has revealed many positive effects of FFi products, and none that are negative. Distributors and customers have the added security of a worldwide insurance policy that covers any possibility of engine damage. There is every reason to be confident in the abilities of the MPG-CAPS to make a favorable difference in your world
There appears to be a need for clarification about the technology behind the FFi MPG-CAPS™ due to confusion caused by other less credible fuel additives with similar sounding marketing claims.
First of all, the majority of fuel additives, treatments, and conditioners sold today are merely detergents that serve to clean the fuel system but do nothing to the combustion characteristics of fuel or, more importantly, to the combustion chamber itself. This is the arena in which FFi technology and products are formulated to perform, providing the distinction between our products and all the others.
Since most automobile engines burn fuel at a rate of more than 99% efficiency, claims of improving combustion alone are essentially meaningless. However, the greatest loss in the efficiency of an automobile engine is the loss of heat, which drives the piston. Experts in the combustion field say that heat recovery is the only practical way to improve gas mileage on a modern engine. Our product is a combustion chamber treatment that conditions the setting where fuel combustion occurs so that the process uses more of the heat generated by combustion.
Here is the way it works. When an MPG-CAP™ is added to the fuel tank, the fuel carries it to the combustion chamber. Its ingredients are used to treat the metal surfaces by forming a film that is technically called thermally derived oxidation. The carboxylic metal creates an oxide residue on the hot surfaces at the time of combustion.
This process can be compared to the scorching of a pan when cooking. When overheated, the food residue forms a layer on the pan when it is oxidized; leaving a film even after being scrubbed that discolors the pan and appears to permeate the pores of the metal.
Inside an engine cylinder, small amounts of material provided by the MPG-CAPS™ oxidize in high temperatures, rapidly producing a thin layer of film on the cylinder walls, the piston face, and the fire deck that provide several benefits.
First of all, the MPG-CAPS™ changes the surface heat absorption characteristics of the metal. The fuel and air mixture produces energy in the form of heat that creates expansion that drives the piston down, and the film inhibits the transfer of radiant heat. This directly results in higher combustion temperature, greater expansion, and more power.
The second benefit the MPG-CAP™ film provides is a polished surface effect that allows more even distribution of the fuel. It can be compared to the beading of water on a polished paint job. The microfilm attracts the liquid fuel resulting in better fuel distribution that shapes the charge to yield more power.
The third benefit of the film is by serving as a catalyst precursor to react with the catalyst component in the MPG-CAPS™ themselves. The active compounds of the MPG-CAPS™ in combination with the heat in the cylinder cause a catalytic reaction that promotes better disassociation of chemicals and better burn. The catalytic reaction is also exothermic and produces heat. Altogether, these three benefits result in a total of 30 to 40% more expansion in the cylinder with an equal amount of fuel.
Another factor to be considered is the ability of the film created by the MPG-CAPS™ to inhibit the build-up of harmful deposits. This is particularly important in view of the effects that the EPA regulations have had on the automobile industry. In order to comply with EPA mandates to lower emissions, fuel manufacturers have removed lead and added oxygenates to fuel. The repercussion is the building of harmful deposits that tend to soak up fuel and cause performance problems. Decreasing the extent of those deposits is yet another benefit of our product.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly of all, is the reduction of emissions resulting from the use of MPG-CAPS™. The catalytic process found in catalytic converters on exhaust systems is started in the firing cylinder, which reduces the formation of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The work done by the converter is reduced, and life of the converter is extended.
Extensive scientific testing has revealed many positive effects of FFi products, and none that are negative. Distributors and customers have the added security of a worldwide insurance policy that covers any possibility of engine damage. There is every reason to be confident in the abilities of the MPG-CAPS to make a favorable difference in your world
World Class Manufacturing and Lean Thinking
Global competition is forcing world class manufacturing companies to practice lean thinking. As the need for a new manufacturing strategy adds pressure to the decision making process, the results can be very profitable!
Because of the incredibly low wages in developing countries, companies are forced to think lean or die. Many long standing companies have gone by the wayside and closed forever because they were unwilling or unable to adapt.
Yet some world class manufacturing companies have embraced lean thinking and are more profitable than ever! A good example of this is Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd., located in Bolton, Ontario, Canada.
My first encounter with Husky was as a plastic injection mold maker. I was an apprentice and my master was a man who had previously worked for Husky. He was certainly the best mold maker I have ever worked with and he told me many stories about Husky and how good they were at mold making.
Since that time I have seen and used their products on an almost daily basis and recognize the expertise and quality. So it is no surprise that they have understood and embraced the lean manufacturing culture and mastered it.
Recently they introduced a new hot runner system to the plastic injection molding industry, called PRONTO. A hot runner system is a highly technical method of melting plastic raw material and injecting it into a steel mold. This is how most of the plastic things you use on a daily basis are produced. It is one of those things nobody thinks about or appreciates!
Husky is able to reduce leadtimes and costs, while maintaining their high standards of quality. They have managed this by producing the component through a combination of standard parts, automated design practices and lean manufacturing of custom plates and manifolds.
The two-week PRONTO systems resulted from Husky’s systematic lean implementation, which included the following steps: Cross functional teams reviewed the entire value stream from shipment of the product through to initial order entry with a clear objective of reducing lead times to two weeks. Using Six Sigma tools, manufacturing times and variation at each step in the process was measured. Work balancing enabled improved flow and ensured constraint operations are effectively utilized. Non-value added tasks were eliminated. Standard work procedures were implemented to ensure consistency and flow. Visual cueing systems were created to ensure quick response to any flow impediments. From start to finish, each team coordinated their efforts to ensure consistent product flow at each handoff point. The 50 percent reduction in leadtime was achieved in less than three months, with no impact to existing production or on time performance. From the end-user perspective, this is a welcome change. In the past, each hot runner system was more or less custom made for every application. By standardizing the system mold designers can more easily plan the design and manufacture of injection molds. This cuts leadtimes and reduces costs, as well as making the job of the mold maker easier.
Because of the incredibly low wages in developing countries, companies are forced to think lean or die. Many long standing companies have gone by the wayside and closed forever because they were unwilling or unable to adapt.
Yet some world class manufacturing companies have embraced lean thinking and are more profitable than ever! A good example of this is Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd., located in Bolton, Ontario, Canada.
My first encounter with Husky was as a plastic injection mold maker. I was an apprentice and my master was a man who had previously worked for Husky. He was certainly the best mold maker I have ever worked with and he told me many stories about Husky and how good they were at mold making.
Since that time I have seen and used their products on an almost daily basis and recognize the expertise and quality. So it is no surprise that they have understood and embraced the lean manufacturing culture and mastered it.
Recently they introduced a new hot runner system to the plastic injection molding industry, called PRONTO. A hot runner system is a highly technical method of melting plastic raw material and injecting it into a steel mold. This is how most of the plastic things you use on a daily basis are produced. It is one of those things nobody thinks about or appreciates!
Husky is able to reduce leadtimes and costs, while maintaining their high standards of quality. They have managed this by producing the component through a combination of standard parts, automated design practices and lean manufacturing of custom plates and manifolds.
The two-week PRONTO systems resulted from Husky’s systematic lean implementation, which included the following steps: Cross functional teams reviewed the entire value stream from shipment of the product through to initial order entry with a clear objective of reducing lead times to two weeks. Using Six Sigma tools, manufacturing times and variation at each step in the process was measured. Work balancing enabled improved flow and ensured constraint operations are effectively utilized. Non-value added tasks were eliminated. Standard work procedures were implemented to ensure consistency and flow. Visual cueing systems were created to ensure quick response to any flow impediments. From start to finish, each team coordinated their efforts to ensure consistent product flow at each handoff point. The 50 percent reduction in leadtime was achieved in less than three months, with no impact to existing production or on time performance. From the end-user perspective, this is a welcome change. In the past, each hot runner system was more or less custom made for every application. By standardizing the system mold designers can more easily plan the design and manufacture of injection molds. This cuts leadtimes and reduces costs, as well as making the job of the mold maker easier.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Reasons You Should Buy TV Lift
When you buy TV lift systems for your home you can take advantage of many features. They are easy to set up, quiet, and low profile. No matter the size of your television you can find a lift that is right for you.
One of the great things when you buy TV lift systems is that you can put it together yourself. These are simple to install and they include detailed instructions with pictures. You won't have any difficulty putting these together. The sets come complete with everything you need like the hardware, controller, remote, and the television mounts. When you are finished installing your TV lift it will look like a professional did it for you.
Another reason you should buy TV lift systems is because they are low profile and compact. Some people think that the lifts are big and bulky. They are not. You would be surprised how simple they really are. You can fit any size television in a TV lift from a 24 inch to a 60 inch and they all fit and work the same. No one will even know you have a flat panel in your home until you press the remote and the television appears.
When you buy TV lift systems you also don't have to worry about another piece of equipment in your home that is loud and annoying. These lifts are super quiet and they run smoothly. You will be excited to have added this technology to your home.
There are many reasons you might consider to buy TV lift for your home. It is an excellent solution for hiding a flat panel television in your home. They are very easy to put together and you don't have to hire someone to do it for you. They run very quietly and the lifts are not big and bulky either.
One of the great things when you buy TV lift systems is that you can put it together yourself. These are simple to install and they include detailed instructions with pictures. You won't have any difficulty putting these together. The sets come complete with everything you need like the hardware, controller, remote, and the television mounts. When you are finished installing your TV lift it will look like a professional did it for you.
Another reason you should buy TV lift systems is because they are low profile and compact. Some people think that the lifts are big and bulky. They are not. You would be surprised how simple they really are. You can fit any size television in a TV lift from a 24 inch to a 60 inch and they all fit and work the same. No one will even know you have a flat panel in your home until you press the remote and the television appears.
When you buy TV lift systems you also don't have to worry about another piece of equipment in your home that is loud and annoying. These lifts are super quiet and they run smoothly. You will be excited to have added this technology to your home.
There are many reasons you might consider to buy TV lift for your home. It is an excellent solution for hiding a flat panel television in your home. They are very easy to put together and you don't have to hire someone to do it for you. They run very quietly and the lifts are not big and bulky either.
Find People Using The Reverse Address Directory!
Internet brought with it great advances in communication and extreme ease of information retrieval. It has made several things possible that would have otherwise may have been either deemed impossible or was difficult to achieve. With the advancement of technology, it is now possible to find the name, phone number and even the email address of a person, armed with just the address of that person. This is made possible with an amazing tool called the reverse address directory. This service is offered online and is extremely convenient and easy to use. Many websites offer this service for free. For those looking for much more information, it would help to have the name, phone number and the address and this can be done with using an address directory.
The reasons why people would want to find information about others are numerous. One reason could be that someone wants to find a long-lost friend and the only information they have is their address. Using this address, they will be able to perform a reverse address lookup in a reverse address directory.
However, a problem with finding the details may be there is the number you are looking for is not listed. This is because the free reverse address directory contains only details of numbers that are listed. Cell phone numbers and unlisted numbers cannot be found using the free services. This is because these numbers are considered private and safeguarded without giving access to the public. They can only be accessed by professional services that pay huge amounts of money to procure these records.
In spite of conducting a search, you are unable to find the business or person you are looking fire, you have another option, which can give you the required results. This option is that of using the services of a private detective. Although, this method works, the drawback is the time taken and the expense involved. Even if you decide to search for the information yourself, it still involves a great deal of time and effort.
The best option would be to use a paid reverse address directory, where you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for by using the zip code and street address. This may cost a little but the charges are usually minimal, and the accuracy and easy with which the information is given access to is well worth the money spent. You can go in for the ones that offer numerous unlimited searches and charge a one-time fee.
There are several directories online and all you need to do is find a good one that fulfils your needs. As long as you provide the street name and address correctly, you will be assured of accurate results almost instantly. All this can be done sitting in the comfort of the office or home and having a computer with internet access. Even long-lost friends get closer almost within minutes of you searching for them. These reverse search directories are a boon to people and are extremely useful in many ways, both in business as well as personally.
The reasons why people would want to find information about others are numerous. One reason could be that someone wants to find a long-lost friend and the only information they have is their address. Using this address, they will be able to perform a reverse address lookup in a reverse address directory.
However, a problem with finding the details may be there is the number you are looking for is not listed. This is because the free reverse address directory contains only details of numbers that are listed. Cell phone numbers and unlisted numbers cannot be found using the free services. This is because these numbers are considered private and safeguarded without giving access to the public. They can only be accessed by professional services that pay huge amounts of money to procure these records.
In spite of conducting a search, you are unable to find the business or person you are looking fire, you have another option, which can give you the required results. This option is that of using the services of a private detective. Although, this method works, the drawback is the time taken and the expense involved. Even if you decide to search for the information yourself, it still involves a great deal of time and effort.
The best option would be to use a paid reverse address directory, where you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for by using the zip code and street address. This may cost a little but the charges are usually minimal, and the accuracy and easy with which the information is given access to is well worth the money spent. You can go in for the ones that offer numerous unlimited searches and charge a one-time fee.
There are several directories online and all you need to do is find a good one that fulfils your needs. As long as you provide the street name and address correctly, you will be assured of accurate results almost instantly. All this can be done sitting in the comfort of the office or home and having a computer with internet access. Even long-lost friends get closer almost within minutes of you searching for them. These reverse search directories are a boon to people and are extremely useful in many ways, both in business as well as personally.