text:
US 3862634 A Abstract An improved fastener for a disposable diaper including an elongated tab having zones of coating thereon whereby the projecting portion of the tab can be folded on itself prior to use.
Claims available in Description (OCR text may contain errors) United States Patent 2 (191 Small FASTENER FOR DISPOSABLE DIAPER Inventor: Rudolph E. Small. Green Bay, Wis. Assignee: Paper Converting Machine Company, Green Bay, Wis. Filed: Mar. 29, 1973 Appl. No.: 345,962 U.S. Cl. 128/284 Int. Cl. A61f 13/16 Field of Search 128/284, 286, 287, 155, References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 6/1949 Kennedy etal .1 l28/l56 Jan. 28, 1975 2943.623 7/ l 960 356L446 2/l97l Jones. Sr l28/287 R26 l5l l/l967 Duncan ct all. lIZX/ZX-l Primary liramim'rLucic H. Luudcnslager Armrnqv, Agent. or F irm-Dnwsom Tilton. Fallon & Lungmus [57] ABSTRACT An improved fastener for a disposable diaper including an elongated tab having zones of coating thereon whereby the projecting portion of the tab can be folded on itself prior to use. " 5 Claims, 7 Drawing Figures Thompson l28/l 56 X l FASTENER FOR DISPOSABLE DIAPER BACKGROUND AND SUMMARRY OF THE INVENTION v seded to some extent by adhesive-equipped tabs. certain disadvantages have been found in the existing products. In particular, where secure fastening is desired, a suitable length of projecting tab is required and this can interfere with the packaging and/or application of the diaper to an infant. Further, in certain instances, the prior art constructions have made use of release" strips such as interleaved layers of silicone-coated material which have to be detached incident to the application of a diaper to an infant and thus constitute a loose item which could prove injurious to the infant. According to the invention, an improved tape fastener is provided which has an elongated tab with the length thereof divided into three zones. The first zone is adhesive-equipped and secured to the diaper proper. The third zone, adjacent the other and projecting end of the tab is also adhesive-equipped and is folded over LII the intermediate or second zone which second zone is equipped with release surface means to facilitate un- DETAILED DESCRIPTION The invention is described in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a diaper in the installed" configuration and featuring tape fasteners according to the instant invention; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one form of the inventive fastener in the configuration assumed prior to diaper application; FIG. 3 is a fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the diaper equipped with the tab in the configuration assumed after installation or application; FIG. 4 is a schematic longitudinal view of the showing in FIG. 2; FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 but showing a modified form of fastener, viz., with a different tab part; FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 2 but of a modified form of fastener, viz., with a different second zone; and FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 3 but relating to the modified form seen in FIG. 6. Referring now to FIG. 1, the numeral 10 designates generally a disposable diaper and disposed in the configuration assumed when it is installed on an infant (not shown). Advantageously, the diaper ,10 includes three portions or layers, the outermost layer 11 usually being constructed of polyethylene or like moisture impervious material. The innermost layer 12 is usually constructed of a non-woven material which is moisture pervious. Confined between the layers 11 and 12 which are usually connected about the perimeter thereof is a layer of absorbent material, generally fluff or like cellulosic material. Also, the diaper in its lay flat condition is generally rectangular and, in any event,'presents a pair of opposed relatively elongated sides 13 and 14, which may be curved or straight. The diaper may also be pleated or lay flat. ' It is the end portions of each side 13 or I4, as the case may be, which are connected by means of the inventive tape fastener generally designated 15 and seen in FIG. 1 with reference to the elongated side I4. Here it will be appreciated that the inventive fastener 15 can be applied with equal facility to either the interior or exterior of the diaper, depending upon the interest of the manufacturer. The details of construction of the inventive fastener can be better seen from a consideration of FIG. 3 which is essentially an enlarged version of that previously re ferred to in connection with FIG. I. It will be noted in FIG. 3 thatthe tape fastener is a relatively elongated tab with the length of the tab divided into three zones generally designated 16, I7 and I8. constituting first, second and third zones, respectively. The extreme projecting end (see FIG. 3) of the fastener 15, i.e., in the third zone 18, is coated differently outward of a transverseline III to develop a finger engageable tab part 20. The portion 20 facilitates the unfolding of the third zone of the tab incident to application, i.e., converting the tab from the FIG. 2 configuration to thatof FIG. 3. Referring now to'FIG. 4, it is seen that the carrier portion 21 of the tab 15 has several zones of adhesive coating applied thereto. The first zone 16 is equipped on one face thereof with a pressure sensitive adhesive 16a for connecting the tab to the diaper l0. Conventionally, the fastener 15 extends generally normally, i.e., perpendicularly to the length of the side 14. The third zone 18 is alsoequipped with a' pressure sensitive adhesive 18a and constitutes the means for securing the ends of a given side together, i.e., in the fashion shown in FIG. 1. v In the manufacture of the tab 15 a web of carrier material (ultimately becoming a carrier portion 21) is coated along two longitudinally extending portions with adhesive these ultimately becoming the portion 16a and 18a. Two other longitudinally extending portions are coated with a silicone release material, these ultimately becoming the portions 17 and 20. In FIG. 4 I refer to the release coatings for the portions 17 and 20 by means of the numerals 17a and20a respectively. Thereafter, the elongated carrier web. is transversely severed to provide tabs of the nature illustrated. In operation, it is only necessary for the mother to insert her finger under the portion 20 (as seen in FIG. 2) and unfold the tab to the condition seen in FIG. 3. Thereafter the adhesive 18a. in zone 18 is adapted to attach the projecting portion of the tab 15 to the side portion of the diaper 10 adjacent the longitudinal edge 14a (see FIG. I). A slightly modified form of tab can be seen in FIG. 5 wherein the tab generally is designated by the numeral 115. As before, the first and second zone are equipped, respectively, with an adhesive coating 16a and a release coating 17a. The difference between FIGS. 4and 5 resides in the fact thatthe third zone adhesive coating 118a extends to the very edge of the tab with the edge portion being folded on itself along a transverse line- 119 to form a finger engageable tab part 120. A still further modification of the invention is seen in FIGS. 6 and 7 wherein the essential difference resides in the character of the second zone 217. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7, instead of having the second zone'coated with a release coating, I provide a sheet 222 coated with release material. The extreme end portion of the zone 18 is equipped with a reverse fold as at 120 (about the line 119) in fashion depicted in FIG. 5. This particular tab 215 can be advantageously produced by coating the entire surface of the carrier 221 with adhesive, thereafter applying the release sheet 222 and, as in the case of FIG. 5, folding the edge portion 120 about the line 119. The release strip 222 may be advantageously of cellulose or like material suitably coated with a silicone release material. In the illustration of the invention given in FIGS. 6 and 7, the fastener 215 is initially disposed in the condition illustrated in H6. 6, Le, with the intervening release strip 222 constituting a release surface means associated with the second zone so as to facilitate unfolding the projecting portion of the fastener 215. Once the tab or fastener 215 has been unfolded to the FIG. 7 form, the third zone 18 may be immediately applied to the other end of the side 14 as at 14a in FIG. 1, and without the need for disposing of the release strip 222 which could be accidently swallowed by the infant if the same were detached. In both embodiments of the invention, the intermediate or second zone is equipped with a release surface means confronting the adhesive in the third zone 18 or 218 as the case may be which facilitates unfolding of thetab. 1n the form of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 2-5, the surface release means or the zone 17 is essentially co-planar with the adhesive coatings on the zones 16 and 18. in the form of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the release of the surface means is elevated by the thickness of the release strip 222. In either event however, it is possible to obtain a relatively elongated tape tab for diaper application without initially having a tab of disadvantageous length. Also, no problem is posed relative to the disposal of a release strip. A prominent advantage of the invention is the simplicity of operation it is possible to open the tab and put it on to the other side of the diaper, preferably with one hand holding the diaper and the other hand opening and placing the tab. I claim: 1. in a disposable diaper having a pair of opposed, relatively elongated sides with end portions of each side being adapted to be connected together to secure the diaper on an infant, an improved tape fastener for each side secured to said diaper adjacent an end of its corresponding side and comprising a relatively elongated tab projecting generally normally outwardly from its corresponding side. each tab having its length divided into three zones to provide a fist zoneat one tab end equipped with a pressure sensitive adhesive constituting the means for securing each tab to said diaper, a third of said zones being at the other end of said tab and equipped also with a pressure sensitive adhesive to constitute the means for securing the ends of each diaper side together, said third zone having a length approximately equal to the lengthof the second zone and prior to application of the diaper to an infant being folded over said second zone, said second zone being equipped with release surface means confronting the adhesive in said third zone to facilitate unfolding of said tab, said release surface means being substantially integral-with said second zone whereby said release surface means remains associated with said second zone upon unfolding and detaching said third zone from said second zone. I 2. The structure of claim 1 in which said release surface means includes release material coated surface on said second zone confronting the adhesive on said third zone. 3. The structure of claim 1 in which said release surface means includes a release strip interposed between confronting faces of said second and third zones. 4. The structure of claim 1 in which the end position of said third zone is transversely folded on itself. 5. The structure of claim 1 in which the end part of said zone is equipped with a release coating. Patent Citations
Referenced by
Rotate |


text:
View by: Most Popular | Alphabetical A to Z | Map
Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)
The neighborhood known as Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) is quite literally the heart of the Malaysian capital and home to some of the country's most ... Read more
Kuala Lumpur Cruise Port
In recent years the bustling capital city of Kuala Lumpur has transformed from a lively city to an Asian economic hub, complete with modern skyscrapers and ... Read more
Kuala Selangor Fireflies
Bask in the bioluminescence of thousands of fireflies as they do their mating dance around the Berembang trees along the river at Kuala Selangor Fireflies ... Read more
Kubah National Park
Set just 22 km outside of the capital city of Kuching, the sand-stone mountains of Kubah National Park offer some of the best day trekking and plant-spotting ... Read more
Lagenda Park
The recently renovated Lagenda Park is a lovely outdoor-garden museum and a great Langkawi experience. The park was built over 50 acres of reclaimed land ... Read more
Langkawi Cable Car
The Langkawi Cable Car will take you high above the Langkawi rainforest on Mount Mat Chinchang for the most spectacular views of the surrounding islands and ... Read more
Langkawi Crocodile Farm
The Langkawi Crocodile Farm on the island of Langkawi, Malaysia houses one of the largest collections of crocodile and alligator species in the world. The ... Read more
Langkawi Oriental Village
Oriental Village is best known as the home of the Langkawi Cable Car and Sky Bridge. The cable car transports visitors some 709 meters into the sky to the ... Read more
LEGOLAND Malaysia
With more than 70 rides, tons of interactive shows, a handful of wild water slides and seven LEGO-themed exhibits, LEGOLAND Malaysia has become a top ... Read more
Little India (Jalan Masjid India)
The colorful enclave of Little India is filled with the sounds and scents of India. Bright bangles and trinkets glitter from stalls and the scents of ... Read more
Mahsuri's Tomb (Makam Mahsuri)
Mahsuri's Tomb - or Makam Mahsuri - is a shrine to one of the most beautiful women to have ever lived on Langkawi. There are at least 14 versions of the ... Read more
Malay House (Rumah Penghulu)
A crowning achievement of the Heritage of Malaysia Trust, Rumah Penghulu, or Malay House, is a traditional stilt house from Kampung Sungai Kechil, a small ... Read more
Masjid India Night Market
Like in many Southeast Asia destinations, some of Kuala Lumpur's best shopping happens at night at the city's many pasar malam, or night markets. One of the ... Read more

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Ubicado cerca de la base de Pikes Peak, Blue Skies Inn está ubicado en el histórico escénicamente Manitou Springs, a poca distancia del Jardín de los Dioses. Maravíllate con vistas maravillosas y un sol brillante en este encantador pueblo de montaña. Sauces gigantes en los cauces de ríos y una sombra Secret Garden establecen el estado de ánimo durante un tiempo maravillosamente tranquilo. Inspirado por nuestra casa de transporte 1873 en la finca del fundador de Manitou Springs, Blue Skies Inn fue construido nuevas desde cero en el estilo arquitectónico neogótico. Cada una de nuestras tranquilas suites de tres habitaciones fueron pintadas y decoradas por un artista usando diferentes temas decorativos.
Puntuación basada en
23 Comentarios
4,0 en noviembre 25, 2014
Was the second time staying here. We celebrated our 4th anniversary and had an enjoyable experience. When we arrived,since it was so cold, Mike suggested an upstairs room with a gas fireplace at no additional charge.(Would have been $30. more a night.) We stayed 2 nights and were never cold.Great suggestion.The view from our room was spectacular. We even saw a huge Buck walking thru the back yard and wedding area,plus lots of animal footprints,large and small, in the new snow. The breakfast basket alone is worth the price of the stay.Delivered to the door with a "shave-and-a-haircut". I'd never heard of that before but now I know.The basket was heavy with goodies.Hot,fresh muffins and an egg dish,plus fruit ,orange juice,milk.What a way to start a day!!
5 en septiembre 10, 2014
First time at a bed and breakfast--not sure what to expect--reserved on line based on other reviews. Everything about our stay was perfect--wish we could have stayed longer. Mike and Sally were absolutely dedicated to making our stay wonderful. Very kind, warm and friendly. The room we chose was fun and creative--down to every detail. Looking forward to returning to experience another wonderful, relaxing stay. Glenn and Donna, MN
4,8 en agosto 13, 2014
We were extremely pleased with the room. But, the best experience during our short stay was having breakfast delivered to our room at 8:30 in a lovely basket! The food was delicious. The B&B is quiet. The host was so welcoming. The B&B was easy to find - we stopped at the Visitors' Center to get general information about Manitou Springs, looked up and saw the Blue Skies arch next door!
5 en agosto 04, 2014
I discovered Blue Skies Inn many years ago, and it has become my favorite place to stay any time I'm in the Colorado Springs area. The Deep Blue suite is my favorite for when I bring my granddaughter with me - but for a romantic weekend, try the Sunset Suite. The breakfast each morning is brought right to your door in a basket you can take out for a picnic - and it's always fresh and delicious! Mike and Sally take extra care to make sure your stay is everything you want it to be. I'll be back again! and again. and again. You will not be disappointed!
5 en enero 06, 2014
This B&B was absolutely delightful! We randomly picked Blue Skies Inn from the online photos and couldn't have been more in awe when we saw our suite in person. Everything was meticulous from the artwork in the rooms to the incredibly delicious hot breakfast that was delivered in the morning in 2 big beautiful baskets. Sally and Mike were wonderful hosts and very accommodating with making our stay comfortable with our kids. You can see the pride they take in their B&B. In fact, if you ask Mike, he will take you on a tour of the grounds and give you a detailed history about the property. Seeing the different suites was like going to a museum. We will definitely return!
4,4 en octubre 10, 2013
Loved the Blue Skies Inn B&B. Breakfast was GREAT!
5 en septiembre 01, 2013
Mike & Judi
5 en agosto 24, 2013
Blue Skies B&B is a beautiful place to say because the innkeepers have made it a very special place to stay. Each room is very charming, thanks to Sally's (the innkeeper) artwork. Plus, breakfast is to "die for", especially if you eat it in the Secret Garden. We should know because w have stayed there at least 14 times!
5 en agosto 14, 2013
We stayed for 2 nights in the Indian Rock Art Room. It was very comfortable. The room was clean, and cozy. The breakfast is delivered to your door in an adorable basket, with fresh baked muffins and other dishes. We would recommend this B&B highly!
5 en agosto 10, 2013
The Blue Skies Inn was the perfect choice for our honeymoon. We enjoyed our spacious suite, which was beautifully decorated. A large, hot breakfast was served to our suite every morning. The food was delicious - definitely one our of our favorite parts. The atmosphere of the B&B was relaxing and charming; it was unlike anywhere we had ever visited. We had a wonderful experience thanks to the friendly innkeepers, Sally & Mike. We are looking forward to visiting again!
Streamside, Montañas, Ciudad pequeña
Colorado Springs, CO (COS) 8 miles
I-25 a Colorado Springs Take Highway 24 West Drive 4 millas y tome la salida en Manitou Ave. Justo en Manitou Ave. por 1 1/2 cuadras Busque 40 pies de alto arco gótico en Derecho con Blue Skies signo cruzar un pequeño puente, primero edificio a la derecha es la oficina
Compra de Antigüedades, Galerías de Arte , Casino, Cenas Elegantes/Gourmet, De Interés Histórico, Lago, Museo, Parques Nacionales, Área natural, Centro de entrenamiento olímpico, Área de picnic, Río, Rodeo, Bodega, Zoo
Bed and Breakfast
Fotocopiadora, Fax, Vídeos, Instalaciones para Bodas , Servicio de té / café en la habitación
Aire acondicionado, Despertador, Juegos de mesa, Reproductor de CD, Ventiladores de techo, Instalaciones para café/té, Ordenador, Reproductor de DVD, Internet en la habitación, Chimenea, Refrigerador , Secador, Jacuzzi/bañera con hidromasaje, Servicio de Internet, Tabla de planchar, Microondas, Entrada privada<br /> , TV por Satélite/Cable, TV, Teléfono, VCR, Wi-Fi
Alquiler de bicicletas, Pistas para bicicletas, Observación de aves, Pistas para esquí de fondo, Pescar, Pistas para senderismo, Montar a caballo, Pistas para Mountain Bike, Globos aerostáticos, Comprar, Visitar lugares de interés, Nadar, Piscina, Rafting en los rápidos
Dietético , Alimentación particular
, Vegetariano
Green Eggs No Jamón
Nuestro delicioso plato de huevos está dedicado a Dr. Seuss. Está hecha de huevos, espinacas, especias, cubos de pan, la leche y el queso suizo rallado. Cocido en el horno, que es entregado a usted bien caliente.


text:
We love coming here. Everyone is so friendly! You are located right on the beach. Two pools to enjoy. I only have two complaints. First, the room are supposed to be for 6 guest. There is 1 room & 2 pull out couches. The couches are quit a bit uncomfortable especially when you have to sleep on them for a... More
- Also Known As:
- Estero Island Beach Club Hotel Fort Myers Beach


text:
"CINDERELLA," Feb 14-23, Capitol Theatre, 50 W. 200 South, Salt Lake City. www.arttix.org
In Ballet West's latest version of "Cinderella," which opened to a full house on Valentine's Day, a moody, yet deeply rich score and dreamlike choreography invite audiences to explore the usually blissful fairy tale through a contemplative lens.
In other words, for those receptive to a program with all the trimmings of a classic storybook ballet but with a darkly neoclassic, romanticist edge, this ballet is transformative.
For those envisioning Disney-en-pointe, or something similarly lighthearted, however, you may be disappointed.
Particularly stark is the seeming mismatch of music and story. It's often a wonder that this swirling score of eerie waltzes was indeed written for "Cinderella" (to answer to the question of a man sitting next to me, who turned to his wife and whispered loudly: "Are they playing the right music?").
It's a valid question. The effect can feel perplexing. It's a study in music and mood. Although we're watching Fredrick Ashton's choreography depict the classic fairytale, Prokofiev's minor-keyed, haunting score casts an entirely different spell. Dancers wear, at times, expressions of glassy-eyed detachment, begging an examination into the ballet's layers.
It's no wonder the title character requires acting chops. Arolyn Williams, who danced the lead role with a steady command opening night, walked the tightrope of Ashton's flash-paced footwork with his desire for the subdued. (Ashton was a true Brit — seeking an effortless and understated effect over the melodramatic).
British dry wit, however, made less of an appearance. Cinderella's buffoonish stepsisters, danced by Christopher Ruud and Easton Smith, were slapstick comic relief.
As if wriggling their way into a dream sequence, Ruud and Smith bounced flat-footed around the stage, arranging wigs on their bald heads, slapping makeup on their garish faces and parading like peacocks during dress fittings, dance lessons and ball scenes. Their antics garnered big laughs from the audience.
The seasonal fairies, Sayaka Ohtaki, Emily Adams, Jacqueline Straughan and Elizabeth McGrath, as well as the corps of "the stars" were mesmerizing, as was Haley Henderson Smith as the Fairy Godmother. (Her character, cloaked in the first scene as a beggar woman to whom Cinderella gives aid, brings a certain sense of karma).
Tom Mattingly was exacting as the Prince, mastering spot-on turns and beaming gallantly. Christopher Sellars as the Jester worked his gravity-defying magic with endless spritely leaps and turns.
There's a reason Ashton's "Cinderella" is most notable among a sea of productions. It's time-tested, humorous, message-driven and complex.
- LDS leaders respond to reaction over their...
- Former Utah basketball player spreads hope...
- Romney decision not to run again disappoints...
- Jury exonerates Marc Jenson in fraud, money...
- LDS leaders reemphasize protection of...
- Utah's largest oil producer lays off 80...
- 7 unique adventure dates for two, on the cheap
- State School Board explores budget cuts as...
- LDS leaders reemphasize protection of... 204
- LDS leaders respond to reaction over... 150
- Watch: LDS Church news conference about... 39
- Romney decision not to run again... 38
- LDS statement could move Utah... 31
- Former Utah basketball player spreads... 25
- Business community supports tax... 22
- Utah residents rank air pollution as... 21


text:
Faith Baptist Church will host a Southern Gospel Concert on May 18.
Faith Baptist Church, 775 W. Main St., Wilmot, will host a Southern Gospel Concert at 4 p.m. on May 18.
The concert will feature the Testimony Quartet of Fredericktown, and the Down Home Gospel Quartet of Akron. The church will provide salads, sandwiches and fellowship following the concert.
For more information, call 330-447-4339.
Your privacy is important, read our privacy policy.


text:
Home » Buddy Rich
With career spanning over 40 years, Tony Levin's work is connected with many music defining acts. Best known for his work with one of the...
Top 10 Drummers in Prog Rock, Metal & Around in 2014
Resurfacing – an interview with James LaBrie
Top 20 Guitarists in Progressive Metal & Around
Best Guitarists of 2014 – Results Are In!
RUSH: Lessons on Morality and What It Means to be Human
RUSH Albums Ranked by Prog Sphere


text:
RFMW Press Release - June 30, 2011TriQuint Introduces 10 – 12 GHz, 2 W Linear AmplifierJune 30, 2011 TriQuint Semiconductor announces the TGA2535-SM, high-linearity power amplifier designed to operate from 10 - 12 GHz. Delivering 43 dBm OIP3, the TGA2535-SM offers 25 dB small signal gain, P1 dB of 33 dBm, and saturated power of 34.5 dBm at a quiescent bias condition of 6 V and 1300 mA. The input and output of the amplifier are matched to 50 ohms with a typical return loss of 15 dB.
in a 5x5mm QFN, this amplifier is best suited for 10 and 11 GHz Point to Point applications and is pin compatible
with the TGA2533-SM (12.7 - 15.4 GHz) amplifier. For more information please contact: TriQuint Stocking Distributor RFMW, Ltd. 90 Great Oaks Blvd. #107 San Jose, Ca. 95119 PH: 408.414.1450 email@example.com
About RFMW, Ltd.: Posted 7/1/2011
Custom Search
More than 10,000 searchable pages indexed. Your RF Cafe
single-handedly redefining what an engineering website should be. |


text:
Panasonic TC-P55ST50 Plasma 3D HDTV Page 2
Everything else was near golden. Only in the black level and shadow detail department does the TC-P55ST50 fall a hair short of the best. And not by much. Its measured black level was half that of last year's TC-P55ST30. For a specification in which less is more, that's a pretty nice improvement. The long-departed Pioneer Kuros, and a few backlit local dimming LED/LCD sets, would only look better on the darkest, lowest contrast scenes.
The classic reference here is the opening below-decks night sequence from Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The black backgrounds there looked more dark gray on the Panasonic than the near jet black I've seen on a very few other sets—sets which, it must be said, cost a good deal more money than this one. The same goes for a few of the very darkest parts of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.
But in scenes containing both light and dark elements, with the latter predominating, the Panasonic was hard to fault. The descent into the vaults at Gringotts bank in the same Potter film looked superb, with deep blacks and first-rate shadow detail. The night scene inside a tent in chapter nine of Hidalgo, which has tripped up lesser displays we've reviewed in the past, was nearly flawless.
The Panasonic's colors were also bold and crisp, yet exceptionally natural. Flesh tones were never an issue, and greens looked right. Even before calibration, the colors left little to complain about, although they weren't absolutely ideal. My only technical complaint, after calibration, involved the imperfect luminance levels of the individual colors—the set offers no color management system to correct for this. But the eye is remarkably tolerant of this type of deviation, and you're unlikely to find any set today with more subjectively satisfying color.
The same was the case with the set's resolution. It's often said that computer animation can look good on anything, but that's because of the control it offers the filmmakers. There's no excuse for any shot being even slightly out of focus (unless intended), or for the lighting to be a bit off, or the color to be wrong. In live action, the best shot, drama-wise, isn't always the best technically. So when I tell you that pristine animated films such as Kung Fu Panda 2, Puss in Boots, and How to Train Your Dragon were pin-sharp on the Panasonic (not to mention their amazing color palettes), you'll know that the set is capable of such miracles if the source material gives it the ingredients needed to do so. Live action was not quite as jaw-dropping, but nevertheless left nothing to be desired in the sharpness department—and certainly superior to anything you'll see short of the very best movie theaters.
And need I mention that the Panasonic offers one advantage that is inherent to plasmas but rare in LCDs—looking good anywhere in the room, off-axis or on.
3D Performance
The first questions any knowledgeable buyer wants answered about a set's 3D performance are first, is it bright enough, and second, will I see 3D ghosting. I'll answer the second question first. You might. I did see some obvious ghosting in the opening scenes from the animated Disney version of A Christmas Carol, and more subtly in one brief shot from Despicable Me. But most of the time I didn't see any ghosting at all, including viewing extended stretches of the above films plus Avatar and Rio. As I said in last year's review of Panasonic's TC-P55ST30 (in which I spotted no ghosts), there's no way to predict whether or not a particular piece of program material, or even a scene or two in an entire movie, will raise those unwelcome spirits. But in no way was this serious enough to be a deal breaker.
In most respects, the Panasonic's 3D images were compelling. While its measured 3D brightness wasn't all that high (see HT Labs Measures), only one active-glasses set I've reviewed produced a more subjectively dynamic picture in 3D—the far more expensive Sharp Elite. In the Panasonic's case, this was done with a trick we've seen recently in other displays besides Panasonics: reproducing the 3D image with a low gamma.
Gamma determines the brightness of the picture relative to the brightness in the source. If you lower the gamma, the mid- tones become brighter; if you raise it, they become darker. If carried to extremes, low gamma can produce a flat, washed-out image. But for reasons not yet entirely clear to me, that is not always the case in 3D. In the Custom Picture mode I used here for 3D, gamma settings of 2.2 or even 2.0 produced gammas far below that level, but looked perfectly fine. The only time I wished for more punch in the Panasonic's 3D images was on the darkest forest scenes in Avatar. They looked a little crushed.
In fact, the Panasonic's subjective 3D brightness largely overcame my main issue with 3D on most displays: choosing between the brighter, punchier 2D picture and a darker image with enhanced depth from 3D. With this set, that conflict rarely occurred.
The icing on the 3D cake was Panasonic's newest 3D glasses. They look a little cheap compared to the old ones (and they are cheaper!), but the main reason they impressed me is that they've shaved away as much excess plastic as possible, making them some of the lightest, most comfortable active 3D glasses I've yet worn. The only problem I had with them was that I sometimes had to cycle through their On/Off switch more than once to get them to lock onto the 3D image.
The hardest part of doing this review was finding something to complain about. I wasn't very successful. With a remarkable price, superb 2D performance, and 3D that can only be bettered by spending a lot more (and often, not even then), this Panasonic is a no-brainer. When I tested three different Panasonic plasmas last year, the TC-P55ST30 was my sentimental favorite. And while we haven't yet tested Panasonic's premier 2012 offering, the VT50-series, if your budget won't stretch that far, it's hard to imagine you not being thrilled with the TC-P55ST50.


text:
The former tour mates reunite. Plus: Cameron's new hair, Lindsay's cast and more
Credit: Rod Tanaka/IPHOTO
Published: Wednesday Sep 20, 2006 | 02:00 PM EDT
More from PEOPLE
See More News
11 of 15
Sheryl Crow soaks up the audience appreciation during the first of a two-night stand at Denver's Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Monday. The singer has been coheadlining a U.S. tour with John Mayer.


text:
Thursday, 2 August 2012
Linda Grant: The last time so many people enjoyed themselves this much in London must have been VE DayFriday, 3 August 2012
These passionate Olympics obsessives take no pleasure in the Games except to pore over Panorama specials on the negative impact they will have on London, the stymieing of free expression by the sponsors, the corporate junketing, the corruption of the...
Leading article: Mark Duggan's death still needs explainingFriday, 3 August 2012
Tomorrow is the first anniversary of the incident which sparked the rioting – the police shooting of a black man, a gangster whom they claimed (wrongly, it turned out) was exchanging fire with officers. It is, therefore, a salutary moment to consider...
Simon Kelner: Our mundane world will miss that Vidal sparkThursday, 2 August 2012
Of course, he would have publicly dismissed it as the solipsistic burbling of a million fools, but many of Vidal's more memorable quotes from a lifetime of political and social commentary were within the parameter of 140 characters. One by one, they ...
REDIRECT Anthony Seldon: Let the Games inspire us to a new vision for all schoolsThursday, 2 August 2012
How will schools be different because of the triumphs yesterday of Bradley Wiggins, Helen Glover and Heather Stanning – and doubtless many others in the coming days? Or because of the vision of Britain that Danny Boyle gave us in his stunning opening...
Leading article: Civil Service reform is as desirable as it is hardThursday, 2 August 2012
Nor is it hard to defend the Civil Service as currently constituted. Since forever, or so it seems, it has been regarded as setting the gold standard for government administration around the world. Among the strands contributing to that reputation ar...
Anthony Seldon: Let the Games inspire a new vision for schoolsThursday, 2 August 2012
How will schools be different because of the triumphs yesterday of Bradley Wiggins, Helen Glover and Heather Stanning – and doubtless many others in the coming days? Or because of the vision of Britain that Danny Boyle gave us in his stunning opening...
Simon Kelner: Red-button coverage keeps us abreast of the GamesFriday, 3 August 2012
We are almost halfway through these Olympics, and even hardened sceptics or those with no interest in sport must have found something of delight or interest, and not just the fact that you can get from Knightsbridge to Piccadilly Circus in less than ...
Amol Rajan: Stigma, not the law, will make me wear a helmetFriday, 3 August 2012
In one of those plunging moments that can define our family lives, my girlfriend heard on the radio that a man "around 30" had been killed near the Olympic Park. She had a sense – not because I'd told her; rather, because she's a genius – that her bo...
Grace Dent: It's not just the sport – London 2012 is a festival of daftness, tooFriday, 3 August 2012
I loved Pooty-poot Putin swanning in to supervise the judo (we all knew he had his kit in the car) and that footage of the floppy-limbed, disqualified Badminton players playing the game with the enthusiasm I showed in Year 10 before sloping off for a...
Grace Dent: It's not just the sport – London 2012 is a festival of daftness, tooFriday, 3 August 2012
I loved Pooty-poot Putin swanning in to supervise the judo (we all knew he had his kit in the car) and that footage of the floppy-limbed, disqualified Badminton players playing the game with the enthusiasm I showed in Year 10 before sloping off for a...
Letters: A bitter blow for disabled peopleFriday, 3 August 2012
Having already been the subject of intense controversy earlier this week over the way it operates "fitness to work" tests, it is hugely concerning to see that Atos has been given the green light for the Personal Independence Payment contract.Assessme...
Leading article: A bout of judo diplomacyFriday, 3 August 2012
Sure enough, Mr Putin was duly accompanied to the judo by David Cameron, after informal talks in Downing Street earlier in the day. Given that the Russian President has not been to Britain for nearly a decade – relations between the two countries wer...
Kim Sengupta: Syrian anger will echo down through the generationsFriday, 3 August 2012
Abed al-Rahman, 11, was not a combatant in Syria's civil war. There was no military target in the street where he lived with his family in Al-Bab, just outside Aleppo. No rebel fighters were present when the two missiles were fired. But there were re...
Owen Jones: One tragedy doesn't make the case for compulsory cycle helmetsFriday, 3 August 2012
The death of a 28-year-old cyclist near the Olympic Park on Wednesday is a horrifying reminder of the risks of the road. Another cyclist witnessed the moment the poor victim went under a bus; his blog is a harrowing account of a young man's last seco...
Sean O'Grady: The German authorities seem to favour management by crisisFriday, 3 August 2012
For the first half-decade of its existence, it developed an enviable reputation as the world's pre-eminent central bank. It presided over first the Wirtschaftswunder ("economic miracle") with growth rates that would not discredit India or Brazil tod...
Letters: Olympics - I came, I saw, I loved every minuteThursday, 2 August 2012
Two of us were lucky enough to get two tickets to the Eventing at Greenwich, so we flew into Heathrow and journeyed into central London to find our hotel. From landing at Heathrow until leaving four days later, our trip was a complete joy.We found th...
Leading article: Now is the time to visit LondonThursday, 2 August 2012
Why the surprise, though? That there should be fewer non-Olympic tourists visiting the capital is entirely predictable. Any notion that visitors would choose to pay inflated travel costs and overblown hotel bills without going to the Games themselves...
Leading article: What's a gong, when you've got a gold?Friday, 3 August 2012
Barely had Wiggo completed his dazzling time trial win and there were calls for his inclusion in the honours list, "Arise, Sir Wiggo" bandied as the very least a grateful nation can do. It is testament to the champion's refreshing lack of pretension ...
Simon Usborne: I survived rollercoaster ride against Jason KennyFriday, 3 August 2012
I was being trained for the afternoon by Iain Dyer, Britain's sprint coach and the brains behind the blistering speed of Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton. My competitor for the day: Jason Kenny, with whom Hoy smashed the team sprint world record ...
Leading article: Last of the great American cosmopolitansThursday, 2 August 2012
Alongside a staggering output of 25 novels and any number of memoirs, essays, plays and film scripts, he was as renowned for his outspoken critique of his country's "imperialist" foreign policy as for his venomous public spats with Norman Mailer and ...
Natalie Haynes: No one can steal the thunder from wonderful Bradley 'Wiggo' WigginsThursday, 2 August 2012
No man is an island, except for PhelpsMichael Phelps has become the most successful Olympian of all time. At least, he has if you measure these things in medals, because he now has 19, 15 of which are gold. To put that in perspective, Phelps is pract...
Boris Johnson claims porn-obsessed Islamic jihadists are 'literally w*****s'
Warnings stepped up for travellers to Israel and Thailand
Increase in animals not being stunned before they are Halal slaughtered
Ukip 'shambles' as three members quit over Hampshire branch organiser's violent criminal past
Office plants computer chips under workers' skin instead of ID cards
Qatar Airways buys 9.99% stake worth $1.7bn in BA owner IAG
A warm welcome to the smiling coast of Gambia
The Gambia is fast becoming known as a winter sun haven
Jobs that robots can't do as well as humans
Here are 10 jobs where robots will never be better than humans…
i100: Who makes your world a better place?
Tweet us the people who deserve some recognition to @thei100 with the hashtag #everydayhero and tell us why.
Fitness reconfigured
A multi-million-pound gym revamp. A new member experience designed by sports psychologists. In 2015, Fitness First really is setting the agenda.
Enter the latest Independent competitions
Win anything from gadgets to five-star holidays on our competitions and offers page.
Business videos from commercial thought leaders
Watch the best in the business world give their insights into the world of business.
Independent Dating
iJobs General
Tradewind Recruitment: Year 3 Teacher
Negotiable: Tradewind Recruitment: My client is a two form entry primary schoo...
Recruitment Genius: Engineering Manager - Alconbury
Negotiable: Recruitment Genius: An opportunity has arisen for an Engineering M...
Recruitment Genius: .Net / SQL Developer
£25000 - £35000 per annum: Recruitment Genius: A skilled .NET developer with e...
Recruitment Genius: IT Technical Support Engineer - PC/Mac
£25000 - £30000 per annum: Recruitment Genius: This IT support company are cur...


text:
Featured Article
Motorcycle Safety Courses to be Held at Two Campuses
Kent State University will offer Motorcycle Ohio rider safety courses at both Kent State University at Trumbull and Kent State University at Salem beginning the first weekend in April.
read moreAcademic Success Center Awarded Seven-Figure Grant to Fund Tutoring Programs
Posted Feb. 14, 2011The Kent State University Academic Success Center was recently awarded a five-year renewal of the TRiO/Student Support Services grant. The grant is worth a total of $2.5 million, with approximately $467,000 distributed annually. The grant funds a large portion of the Academic Success Center's tutoring programs.
"We are here to help these students persist to degree completion," says Alexsa Wanchick, an Academic Success Center program assistant. "It's not a one-shot deal. Retention until graduation is key."
The federally funded grant allows the Academic Success Center to provide free tutoring support services to 300 first-generation college students, students from specific income backgrounds and students with disabilities.
"The university first applied for the grant in 1978," says Dennis Rule, an Academic Success Center program assistant. "There's a lot of history there."
The grant was written by Chris Tokpah; Gary Padak, the former dean of Undergraduate Studies; and Diane Munson, the former Academic Success Center director.
"It is very competitive out there. There are only a certain number of universities who are awarded this grant," says Wanchick.
Of 1,475 applicants, 1,026 were awarded the grant. For more information about the Academic Success Center and its programs, visit http://www.kent.edu/asc/ .
By Sarah James


text:
Custom Valentine Online Store > Names Starting With 'C' > Claudio > This Heart: Claudio (D) > This Heart: Claudio (D) Women's Tracksuit
Drag the square at the left to choose the part of your image you want to use. Tips: Click and drag any corner to resize; click and drag from the inside to move.
Click done if you're happy with the way it looks.
This shop is powered by CafePress Inc. Copyright © 1999- CafePress.com. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Trademark & Copyright Information Non-US currency rates are updated daily and may fluctuate.


text:
Hi everybody... I´m from Brazil and when I bought from this site for the first time, I was a little bit worried about how and if my order would...Read More ->
I'm from Belgium and I ordered THE GECKO (it was a Preorder). One week after (on Friday), The gecko was in Stock. MJM has shipped it IMMEDIATELY!...Read More ->


text:
- 21Promote
Art Print
Collect your choice of gallery quality Giclée, or fine art prints custom trimmed by hand in a variety of sizes with a white border for framing.
Whimsical flower print
This colorful wall decor makes a lovely teacher appreciation or birthday gift. It will also brighten up a nursery, bedroom or kitchen.
art, illustration, nursery artwork , hearts, for the home, whimsical art, teacher appreciation, summer flower art, wall decor, geometric, colorful wall decor, whimsical print, birthday gift
See More Comments


text:
Immediately before the Spring Lake Park High School Homecoming football game Oct. 11, families came together for a parade and tailgate event, sponsored by student council....Read More
Spring Lake Park High School
Attendance was down for the Panther Foundation's third annual 5K and family carnival fundraiser at Spring Lake Park High School, but those who did brave the rain Oct. 5 were full of energy, ready to kick off Homecoming week 2013....Read More
Winning traditions are something that take time to build and develop and over the last eight seasons under the direction of now Stillwater head coach Jake Smothers, Spring Lake Park/St. Anthony Village boys' soccer developed quite a reputation for winning and being a very tough opponent to elimina...Read More
As students in the Opportunities in Emergency Care program at Spring Lake Park High School sat in class on Monday, a man burst into the room, alerting everyone that there was an emergency in the parking lot....Read More
A group of industrious Spring Lake Park High School students and graduates have raised $2,800 for the Minnesota Angel Foundation, an organization committed to helping families struggling with cancer diagnoses....Read More
Maddy Iskierka, right, and Thao Tran, both incoming sophomores at Spring Lake Park High School, play a Ninja game as part of a group action activity for the school's annual summer Leadership Camp...Read More
Commencement exercises for Spring Lake Park High School seniors took place Friday evening, May 31 in the school's gymnasium. A total of 334 students received diplomas....Read More
Bands Against Cancer, a charitable event with a mission to help cancer survivors and their families, makes an encore appearance thanks to a group of altruistic students and graduates from Spring Lake Park High School bent on championing a community cause.
Seven graduation ceremonies fell within seven days between Thursday, May 30 and Tuesday, June 4....Read More
Spring Lake Park High School's Asian Club members caught the eyes of students last week when they partnered up and presented a traditional Hmong dance during lunch hour.


text:
Home � Dining & Food � Our Gourmet
Our Gourmet: A Portsmouth icon with great seafood
980 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth436-0717
Serving: Sunday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 10.
Prices: Appetizers $4-$15; sandwiches and salads, $8-$18; pizza, $9-$12; entrees $17-$24.
Handicapped accessible
Restaurant Location:
The Dinnerhorn can easily take its place alongside the Puritan Back Room, the Bedford Village Inn, Taipei & Tokyo, Villa Banca, Cotton and various Common Man's in offering excellence to its guests in the forms of reliable service, outstanding food and an expertise in running a restaurant that covers every base.
The beginning: 18/20
Our Gourmet: When we're in the mood for seafood, the Dinnerhorn tops our list. Not only for quality fish near the coast, but also for tried-and-true restaurant reliability that runs top to bottom. Yes, the parking lot floods at a strong high tide, but patrons are ready for that and the parking lot is large. Yes, lobster is expensive, but it's available in smaller portions as part of a salad or on a sandwich roll if one does not desire a full lobster dinner. And yes, other restaurants might include a salad with your entree, but two side orders are included with Dinnerhorn meals and the half-salad that qualifies is larger than any dinner salad you might come by.
All in all, your evening is set up splendidly before you walk in the door. There is ice water waiting at the table. Booths are sturdy, attractive and comfortable. Servers know exactly how to proceed. It's all part of the quality dining experience that patrons have come to rely on at Dinnerhorn for 52 years. 9/10
The Dining Companion: We knew to go slowly. Appetizers the size of other restaurants' entrees can seriously impinge on one's ability to enjoy supper, so we split an order of Fried Calamari ($10.95) — and left half of it for lunch the next day. An impressive mound of lightly breaded, gently fried, round squid portions was generously doused with a sweet and slightly spicy Thai chili sauce (another sauce of garlic butter and hot peppers is available), and accompanied by a healthy portion of homemade tartar sauce.
Although we love calamari, the choice was made somewhat difficult by other appetizer choices ($3.95-$15.95) including the Dinnerhorn raw bar (oysters, shrimp and clams), mussels, Greek grape leaves with egg and lemon sauce, crab cakes, Buffalo wings, coconut shrimp, chicken fingers, various soups including clam chowder, and quesadillas. Starters are a bounty here. 9/10
The middle: 19/20
OG: Somewhere between cocktails (from the adjoining Bratskellar Pub) and dessert comes the relaxing part of a meal, and our server, Mary L., made us feel right at home. Another fresh, warm roll with your appetizer? Already there. More time with the menu? Relax and enjoy your choices. Questions about food perparation, what the chef recommends, or what is included? Basically, whatever you'd like, however you'd like it. No worries. Substitute this for that? No problem. More drinks? Anytime, just holler. The service is quick, friendly and thorough, and makes you feel well-attended every moment. When it is accomplished in a most relaxed way, that's experience, and it's as valuable as it is comforting. 10/10
TDC: I was having a devil of a time deciding among menu choices, prioritizing side orders, considering my dietician's possible opinion, and possibly saving room for dessert. Then I saw the specials menu, and all problems were solved, choices shelved. We were nicely settled and had a whole evening in front of us, so we let a delicious appetizer and the promise of a delectable seafood dinner carry us right on into the meal. 9/10
The menu: 18/20
OG: Dinnerhorn's menu is vast, but everything is not a mountainous batch of deep-fried seafood. For lighter diners an array of salads and sandwiches can easily satisfy. Salads come in all varieties, including those with seared tuna and seafood Louis (crab, shrimp, lobster with avocado, tomato, hard-boiled egg and mixed greens). There's also the Fresh Sampler (lobster salad, chicken salad and tuna salad with potato salad and cole slaw), Greek, Cobb and Caesar (available with chicken, shrimp, grilled salmon or steak).
Sandwiches include everything from burgers to lobster or fried-seafood rolls, pastrami reubens, fish tacos and more. Plenty for every taste and appetite. 9/10
TDC: Dinnerhorn's regular menu offers nearly three dozen entrees ranging from baked, broiled, pan-seared or fried seafood to prime rib, steak, chicken, veal and lasagna. Some entrees are served over pasta, and there is a Roasted Half Chicken dinner ($16.95) which probably gets little attention among the others but is probably outstanding.
But it's all about seafood for some diners, and Dinnerhorn has all bases covered with swordfish, scallops, haddock, sole, seafood fettuccine (with scallops, shrimp and lobster with vegetables under alfredo or pesto sauce), baked-stuffed seafood dishes (sole, haddock, lobster), crab cakes, various captain's-plate combinations and shrimp scampi. 9/10
The food: 18/20
OG: Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna ($20.95) with ginger wasabi sauce, a half salad and broccoli was my outstanding choice for the evening's meal, and it was a winner all around. A large, thick tuna steak was well-seared to my order (medium rare) and accompanied by a delicious wasabi-ginger sauce that was both sweet and slightly spicy, served with a healthy portion of steamed broccoli and one of the largest side salads I have ever seen. The tuna, well-crusted with sesame seeds, held its flavor and its heat nicely from the broiler to the plate. I had scoured the menu for just the right dish, and was superbly satisfied with the preparation, presentation and taste of a delightful meal. 9/10
TDC: The specials included Pan-Seared Halibut ($19.95) with Maine baby-shrimp risotto under a creamy lobster sauce that was absolutely to die for. Thick, but tender, the halibut was just the right light fish for my taste, but the sauce added dash and the rice brought a nice starchy component to a well-balanced dinner. Highly recommended. 9/10
All the rest 18/20
OG: There is another entire side to the Dinnerhorn, literally. Bratskellar Pub, in the adjoining huge room, offers a lively cocktail lounge and a few dozen tables for drinks and its pub menu, which is far more than the standard burger-and-fries-or-wings fare. But it is entirely separate, with televisions and a boisterous crowd, but the sound is nearly wholly deadened by carpets, wall construction and the placement of the TVs. That is a big bonus, and allows the Dinnerhorn crowd to eat and talk in a relaxed, quiet manner. 9/10
TDC: Mary, our server, added value and comfort to an already winning atmosphere. It's an attractive, comfortable, proven atmosphere befitting a popular Seacoast eatery that has turned the corner toward a century of serving customers. 9/10
Total: 91/100
NH Angle >> Food |
0 What's the most romantic restaurant in NH?
0 Entropy defied: Researchers unboil an egg... but you might not like the solution
0 Hanover wants water cameras fearing tampering
1 Woman receives bag full of cash at Burger King drive-thru in Rochester
0 Cinemagic theater gets beer and wine license
0 N.H. House panel hears debate over anti-�package store� law
0 Temple planners ditch manure amendment after farmers raise a stink
0 Military field rations of 20 international armies
0 Newmarket man eyes $4,500 prize after 50-pound weight loss
0 At 27%, NH parents nation's least reliant on taxpayers to provide school lunches
0 Proposal in lawsuit would give $14 gift cards to thousands of Buckley�s Great Steaks customers
0 How Kickstarter kept North Country cafe open and in the family
0 'Best drink of water in New Hampshire' goes dry
0 New Portsmouth bar returns Federal Cigar to its glory days
0 Plans for a Concord poultry processing facility have flown the coop
Most Read
Most Comments
Mark Hayward's City Matters: Manchester man gets his stolen Cadillac back along with a $125 tow bill


text:
We want to ensure that making a return is as easy and hassle-free as possible! If for any reason you decide that your purchase just isn't for you, simply return the item within 30 days of receipt and we'll cover the return shipping when you choose our FREE Pre-Paid Return Shipping Label. Learn more about our return policy.
Shop now and get Free Value Shipping on most orders over $29.95 to contiguous 48 states, DC and to all U.S. Military APO/FPO/DPO addresses.
The Plano Molding Elite 3700 Size Crank Bait Case stores your crank bait in a secure and orderly way. This Utility Box by Plano Molding secures up to 22 medium crank baits and the patented V-groove tray keeps hooks tucked away. Whether it's jigs, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits or crankbaits, the Plano Molding Elite Medium Crank Bait Organizer is a great way to keep your crank baits organized.


text:
Local News
Recycling Bin Returning to Salem On Monday
Keep Salem Beautiful has announced the new recycling bin will arrive on Monday.Unlike the past, it will no longer be on the Marion County Parking Lot on North Broadway all the time. The bin will be brought in for the first full week of the month. If the demand warrants, the recycling center will be brought back during the third week of each month.
Keep Salem Beautiful President Rita Black says the new recycle bin will be a single stream, with no separation of items required. The new center will accept cardboard, aluminum, newspapers, as well as #1 and #2 plastics. No glass will be accepted at anytime. A sign will be posted at the site for the restrictions required by the company that will provide the bin.
Black says KSB apologizes for the inconvenience of not having the recycling bins for several months. She realizes this is a new journey and many questions will arise. Anyone with questions can contact Black at 548-0215. Please leave a message to be returned for any further questions.
See other LocalNews news:
Salem Man Arrested for Retail TheftOdin Highschoolers Aim to Drive Safe
Jackson County Named State's Poorest, but How Does Marion County Stack Up?
Meth Bust At Central City Home Results in Six Arrests
Centralia to Form Committee to Improve Potential Hotel Viability


text: 500 pts Support the Desert Thunder Motorcyle Club Toy Run <KORD VIP What day is the charity toy run? Oct. _____? Read the story Sign in to Participate Category: Trivia Tags: charity, trivia Ends: Wednesday October 17 at 2:09PM PDT Visit our sponsor: Read the story Share on Facebook Share on Twitter More Leave a comment Send to a friend! Print this page Pin it! Reddit This! Share on Tumblr! More Ways To Get and Use Points Would You Make Jail Feel Longer If You Could?Beard, No Beard?Enter the Newsletter a Bonus Word!Were You More Excited for 2006, 2014 or 2015?Play Battle of the Sexes!Where Is Sweetheart Soiree?


text:
Tech Helproom
It's free to register, to post a question or to start / join a discussion
Nexus 7
« previous 1 2 3 next »
Likes # 0
Posted December 30, 2012 at 2:50PM
Anyone got a Nexus 7. Does it have a file/folder facility like Windows Explorer and does it allow files/folders to be transferred from a PC.
I want to store my photos in subject/day/month/year format. The iPad won't allow that sort of format or transfer from PC but I'm hoping that the Nexus 7 does have these features.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 1:04PM
USB sockets on your PC are best described as female and flash drives have male USB plugs.
The cable supplied with the Nexus has a male standard USB plug and so you cannot plug a flash drive into it. USB OTG cables have a female socket which with take a male plug (e.g. a flash drive).
Also (as I understand it) out of the box, the Nexus is not able to recognise flash drives, hence the need for an additional app.
Google USB OTG and you can find out more.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 2:48PM
Just thinking further Batch, presumably this would give additional storage over and above the native 16/32Gb capacity of the Nexus, albeit by means of an external device
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 4:08PM
Bit late checking in today!
Nexus to PC via cable....I have gone to My comp/Nexus/internal storage and have created a new folder in usual way ( file/create new). Pasted a jpg into it and it appears in 'Gallery' as the first item. Not as a folder, but as the photo.
So don't quite see the advantage of creating a folder at the moment. Unless the folder is lodged somewhere else. Might just as well pasted direct to gallery.
Will keep you posted.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 4:12PM
I have the OTG, but haven't used it yet.
Apparently you need the Media Importer from the store which is free ( I think, and I have it.
Hopefully when I use it I can just access it and it doesn't transfer the lot!!!!
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 4:33PM
Yes you could use it as additional storage, but I guess it is a tad inconvenient having a short cable (few inches only) and flash drive hanging there.
I've got 32GB Nexus which I hope is enough for most purposes.
But USB OTG may be useful for accessing confidential info. (which I don't want to store directly on the Nexus) when I'm travelling.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 4:35PM
Just connected a 16gb pen drive full of music folders.
It displays an option 'Always use the importer with this device'.
OK it and all music appears either under Music or under Folders.
It plays OK, but beware of the option to 'Root' the Nexus. From what I have read it
requires more brains than I have! Unless it refers to the root music folder.
Above the list of albums is says 'Root, Read only.
I ignored it and just played the music. And the 'Play' arrow is at top of screen.
Got my OTG from ebay for a few quid.
Pen drive is obviously being powered by the Nexus so what the battery drain is I will soon discover.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 6:13PM
muddypaws, I'm no expert, but the way I look at rooting is this:
With a non-rooted device (as supplied), Android runs in a protected mode which shields the operating system / programs (apps), but restricts the ability for programs to take full advantage.
Once rooted it is possible for programs to gain access to functionality that is otherwise restricted. This has its advantages, but may also mean that the device is (more) open to instabilities and malware.
From what I've read, rooting a device is not difficult, although I would be surprised if Nexus Media Importer (which is what I think you are referring to) had the built in capability to root a device. And my understanding is that Nexus Media Importer does not require rooting anyhow (although most if not all other similar apps do).
Also I thought Nexus Media Importer costs £1.88 - you mentioned what you have as being free, so maybe it isn't Nexus Media Importer that you have?
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 7:19PM
Batch It is the Nexus Media Importer that I have. My mistake it probably was/is 1.88.
I went a bit mad to start with and grabbed several free and cheap ones and forgot which is which.
The 'root' I referred was the music folder root..
Thanks for explaining the Nexus routing. Think I will leave well alone.
Likes # 0
Posted December 31, 2012 at 7:23PM
PS It appears you don't have to double space on this site to get a new line when using the Nexus. Hence the gaps above. So why on the pc?
« previous 1 2 3 next »
Reply to this topic
This thread has been locked.
Check out PC Advisor's other tech forums
Top 5 Most Popular
Samsung Galaxy S6 'Project Zero' UK release date, price and specs rumours: When is the Samsung Galaxy S6 coming out?
Netflix vs Amazon Prime Instant Video comparison review: What's the best streaming service?
Fitbit Charge HR review – hands on with the fitness tracker with heart-rate monitor
16 best new phones you should be most excited about in 2015: best new phones coming from Apple, Samsung, Sony, HTC, LG, Xiaomi and others
Apple Watch UK release date, price and specs rumours: When is the iWatch coming out?


text:
Posts Tagged 'washington Post'
From the Web – Mobile Gram in Bangladesh and Washington Post story
Posted by: Lilly on April 3, 2008
Washington Post, Feb 10: Let's work to eradicate poverty
Posted by: Lilly on March 20, 2008
Posted by: Lilly on April 3, 2008
Posted by: Lilly on March 20, 2008
The Forum for Stable Currencies is a non-funded network of voluntary citizens and Parliamentarians who try to make a difference. If we had £1,000 we would set it up as a charity. Until then, every donation helps towards these internet bills here and there.


text:
List Price $349.80
You Save $116.60 (33%) |
Quick Ship
Ships in 24 hours. Most customers receive in 2 business days. |
6in LED Dome Path Light
1 question(s) from the community have been answered.
Q | What to know how the dome cover is attached to the fixture? |
Unfortunately, Kichler does not have installation instructions available online at this time for the Kichler Lighting 6in LED Dome Path Light Landscape 12V LED Path/Spread in Bronzed Brass 15870BBR. You can contact Kichler directly to request instructions at 866.558.5706. |
Have a question about this product? Ask us! | Live Chat Submit a Question |


text:
Celebrity Buzz
Your daily dose of hot news & gossip.
Posts filtered on Category
Keira Knightley engaged
British actress Keira Knightley is engaged to marry her rocker boyfriend James Righton. The Klaxons star cemented the couple's 15-month relationship by asking the actress to be his wife – and she said yes. A spokesperson for Knightley tells Britain's Daily Mail Online, "I can confirm that Keira is engaged to be married to James […]
[Read More]
Russell Crowe jams with Elvis Costello
Russell Crowe stunned the audience at London's Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday night by joining Elvis Costello on stage during his gig. The She hitmaker headlined the prestigious venue and sang several of his tracks before inviting Crowe to share the spotlight with him. Introducing the actor as "the gladiator of guitar" in reference to […]
[Read More]
Halle Berry fighting to make schools paparazzi-free
Halle Berry has taken aim at Hollywood's paparazzi again, insisting it's time for the "creepy" snappers to stop hanging around outside the schools which celebrities' young kids attend. The Oscar winner was caught on camera clashing with photographers as she was picking her daughter Nahla up from a Los Angeles school on May 10. Screaming […]
[Read More]
Michelle Pfeiffer still smitten with husband after 19 years
Ageless beauty Michelle Pfeiffer is still madly in love with her husband of 19 years, writer David E. Kelley, insisting he's one man she'll always respect. Pfeiffer insists she has never had any interest in cheating on the Ally McBeal creator – because he's the best guy she has ever met. The Dark Shadows star […]
[Read More]
George Lucas reignites property war
Star Wars mogul George Lucas has reignited his property war with his wealthy neighbors, vowing to sell off his land to low-income housing projects following their refusal to accept his proposed expansion. The legendary director was aiming to build a new digital media production compound on a plot of farmland adjacent to his Skywalker Ranch […]
[Read More]
Bruce Willis shares fatherhood wisdom
Bruce Willis has opened up about the lessons he's gleaned from fatherhood, crediting his three eldest daughters with helping him learn to "shun drama." The Die Hard star became a dad again in April after his second wife Emma Heming gave birth to daughter Mabel Ray, and he insists raising three girls with ex-wife Demi […]
[Read More]
Will Smith threw extra off 'Men In Black III' set for taking a photo
Actor Will Smith threw an extra off the New York City set of his upcoming movie Men In Black III after he spied the man trying to take his photo during a scene. The veteran caused a stir as he shot the highly-anticipated alien encounter sequel in the Big Apple, famously insisting a large double-decker […]
[Read More]
Jessica Alba is among 'most creative business people'
Jessica Alba has been named on a list of creative business moguls after starting up her own company. The actress launched website Honest.com in January, through which she aims to let parents know what ingredients and chemicals are used in baby foods and products. She ranked in 17th place on the Fast Company's The 100 […]
[Read More]
Marlon Brando's secret phone tapes revealed
Movie great Marlon Brando spent years flouting California's strict phone laws by recording conversations he had with the famous and powerful, according to a new report. The late actor secretly and illegally taped private recordings with friends and associates and left behind a treasure trove of bugged chats. Movie mogul Mike Medavoy, who is one […]
[Read More]
Mila Kunis' alleged stalker held on $150,000 bail
A man charged with stalking actress Mila Kunis has been placed on $150,000 bail after pleading not guilty to the crime. Stuart Lynn Dunn was arrested in Los Angeles earlier this month after following the Black Swan beauty to her gym three days in a row. Kunis contacted cops on the third day after Dunn […]
[Read More]
Show More


text:
Director Tony Scott dies in suicide jump
Top Gun director and TV executive producer Tony Scott has died after leaping from a bridge in Los Angeles.
To continue reading, subscribe below with 25% off!
We are currently offering 25% off the subscription package of your choice. Prices will be increasing in 2015, so subscribe before 31st Dec 2014 with our discount to save 25% AND beat the price increase. This will be your last chance to access Broadcast at this great price.
Already a subscriber?
If you are a Broadcast subscriber already, simply sign in with your email address below:
Not a Broadcast subscriber?
Sign up today to save 25% and beat the 2015 price rise!
Find out more about all the benefits of a subscription to Broadcast.


text:
Book your room at Weathertop Mountain Inn
Please enter your travel dates.
4-star inn with free breakfast and restaurant
Situated in Waitsfield, this inn is within 6 mi (10 km) of Bundy Center for the Arts, Mad River Glen Cooperative, and Skinner Barn. Sugarbush Ski Resort and Ole's Cross Country Center are also within 12 mi (20 km).
Nearest Transport Options
Nearest Airports
Property Features
Along with a restaurant, this smoke-free inn has a bar/lounge and a spa tub. Free breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include a sauna, an arcade/game room, and a library.
Room Amenities
All rooms are individually decorated and offer free WiFi and ceiling fans. Other amenities available to guests include refrigerators, hair dryers, and ironing boards.
Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!


text:
Okay, so you had some reservations, but you finally decide to try this online dating thing. Your cousin met the love of her life online, so it's worth a try right? You find a site that offers free membership so you can browse for possible dates without paying up front.
"Unlimited data" sounds great, right? Browse the Internet, stream videos, use GPS, even make video calls – all to your heart's content. But what if you bought an unlimited data plan and then weren't able to do all those things? That's what happened to some AT&T customers.
When you want free consumer information — for yourself or a group — the FTC is ready to take your order. Looking for identity theft brochures to share with your book club? We've got them. Online safety handouts to use in the classroom? Right here. Bookmarks about charity fraud to distribute at a community fair? Absolutely. Our new and better bulkorder site is your gateway to almost 200 free publications for consumers and businesses.


text:
Former Chinese Politician Has Spirited Defense At Trial
The former politician Bo Xilai offered a spirited defense in court in China on Thursday, surprising observers who had expected a quick show trial to end the country's biggest political scandal in decades. However Bo was allowed to cross-examine witnesses and tell judges he had been framed in the bribery charges against him. He said he had confessed to the charges under psychological pressure during interrogation.
Copyright © 2013 NPR. For personal, noncommercial use only. See Terms of Use. For other uses, prior permission required.
Copyright © 2013 NPR. All rights reserved. No quotes from the materials contained herein may be used in any media without attribution to NPR. This transcript is provided for personal, noncommercial use only, pursuant to our Terms of Use. Any other use requires NPR's prior permission. Visit our permissions page for further information.
NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by a contractor for NPR, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of NPR's programming is the audio.
You must be signed in to leave a comment. Sign In / Register
Please keep your community civil. All comments must follow the NPR.org Community rules and terms of use, and will be moderated prior to posting. NPR reserves the right to use the comments we receive, in whole or in part, and to use the commenter's name and location, in any medium. See also the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy and Community FAQ.


text:
EESTI HÄÄL ja INGLISMAA EESTLASTE ÜHING
wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
The Christmas issue, which includes reports of Christmas celebrations in London and Nottingham, is now available. The issue includes reports on the Round Table discussion of Estonian organisations in Great Britain hosted by the Estonian Embassy; Lauri Bambus, the incoming Estonian Ambassador in the United Kingdom, presenting his papers to Her Majesty the Queen and the election of Urmas Viilma as the new Archbishop of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church. The children of the Estonian School in London have also contributed to this issue.
Articles, adverts, etc for inclusion in the January issue should be sent by 7th January please.
Also please don't forget that this is the time of the year to renew your subscription for 2015. I ame pleased to inform you that the subscription has been REDUCED to £20!! If you order a new subscription for a friend this will cost just £12 for the first year - a great present.
Eestihaal.co.uk - Association of Estonians in Great Britain | Copyright © 2011


text:
Press release from CNW Group
Bell Aliant employee program eases back-to-school burden for families in need
Thursday, August 08, 2013
Bell Aliant employee program eases back-to-school burden for families in need
10:15 EDT Thursday, August 08, 2013Employees and Bell Aliant Pioneers work together to fill 10,000 Backpacks for Kids this year
HALIFAX, Aug. 8, 2013 /CNW/ - The Bell Aliant Backpacks for Kids program will provide 10,000 backpacks for elementary school-aged children in need this year so they can start the year right. The employee program sees Bell Aliant purchase the backpacks while employees and retirees work together to raise money for the school supplies. Community partners then help distribute the backpacks.
Backpacks for Kids is grounded in the belief that when many people contribute, they have the power to accomplish something far greater than they could on their own. Since it began in 2003, the Backpacks for Kids program has seen close to 28,000 backpacks full of school supplies delivered to school children in need through community partners in Atlantic Canada, Ontario and Quebec. Last year alone, close to 8,000 children benefitted from the program and this year the program aims to help 10,000.
"I am so proud of the Bell Aliant team. Every year I am moved by the compassion and commitment to help kids in need start the school year off feeling confident and ready to learn," says Karen Sheriff, president and chief executive officer. "We don't do it alone though. It truly takes a community. In addition to our employees and retirees, we work with community partners and our suppliers to provide real resources to children who otherwise would not have what they need to start the school year."
The program provides important support during a difficult time of year for many families. Purchasing back-to-school necessities often makes it challenging for families to afford the basics, like food and other payments, but educators report that children who are able to start the school year with the supplies they need are more confident and have a better chance of success all year long.
A significant part of the program's success lies in its community roots. Each year, Bell Aliant is able to reach the children most in need through strategic partnerships with community groups across the region.
- "When I walk down the hall with a full backpack in hand, the look of gratitude and relief on parents` faces is more than I can put into words. The people who donate supplies - whether it's the Bell Aliant Pioneers or the lady down the street donating a binder and some pencils - it all makes a difference to the families in need." - Sarah MacMaster, Maggie's Place, Amherst, NS.
- "Every student should look forward to going back to school without having to worry about whether or not they will have everything they need. How exciting for a young student to open up a brand new backpack stuffed with crayons, scissors, markers, glue, paper, books, rulers and more - all the tools they need for a successful start to school. Thank you to everyone who made this happen!" - Carole Murphy, Anglophone East School District, NB.
- "August is the busiest month at food banks. Some people think it's December but really it's the month of August. Parents are getting ready for back to school, they're challenged: do they buy groceries or do they fill the kids' backpacks for school?" - Diane Swinemar, Executive Director, FEED Nova Scotia.
- "It's heart-warming to see the kind, friendly faces of the Bell Aliant employees and Pioneers arrive at my school with Backpacks that really help children in need. This kind act goes a long way in building a child's confidence." - Robert Bishop, Holy Redeemer School, Spaniard's Bay, NL
Contribute to the Bell Aliant Backpacks for Kids program online by visiting bellaliantbackpacksforkids.ca. Contributions are also accepted at most Bell Aliant stores in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador. One hundred per cent of money raised goes directly towards buying school supplies to fill the backpacks purchased by Bell Aliant.
Contributions can be made until September 7.
About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) technology with its FibreOP™ services. Through its operating entities, it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality customer service, choice and convenience.
Video with caption: "Video: Bell Aliant reminds people that it takes a whole community to help some kids have what they need to start the school year right". Video available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgwaBS4r9D0&feature=share&list=UUbVYzyDLnZaQbwNu9mcZZPA
Video with caption: "Video: Bell Alaint CEO, Karen Sheriff, shares a message about our employee-driven Backpacks for Kids program. Help us fill #10thousandbackpacks". Video available at: http://youtu.be/I3OUTZaGOVI
Image with caption: "Bell Aliant employees filling Backpacks for Kids. (CNW Group/Bell Aliant Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130808_C4444_PHOTO_EN_29616.jpg
Image with caption: "Bell Aliant employees filling Backpacks for Kids. (CNW Group/Bell Aliant Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130808_C4444_PHOTO_EN_29617.jpg
Image with caption: "Bell Aliant employees filling Backpacks for Kids. (CNW Group/Bell Aliant Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130808_C4444_PHOTO_EN_29618.jpg
SOURCE: Bell Aliant Inc.
For further information:
Media Relations:
Katherine VanBuskirk
Toll-free: (855) 487-3040


text:
US 6775343 B1 Abstract A receiver for optical signals arranged in packets of data having a discontinuous flow pre-reads the signal and generates, for each packet, a corresponding signal indicating the phase of the data in the packet, and a threshold level indicating the packet mean signal power. A delay line delays the discontinuous flow by a delay interval. A receiver responsive to the discontinuous flow delayed by the delay line performs, on each packet, a receiving operation on the basis of the threshold level and with a phase identified on the basis of the phase indicating signal.
Claims(18) 1. A receiver for signals arranged in packets of data with a corresponding bit rate forming a discontinuous flow, comprising:
a phase locking system adapted for carrying out, for each packet of the said discontinuous flow, a phase locking operation such that a corresponding phase signal, indicating the phase of the data contained in the packet, is generated within a given time interval,
a receiving system comprising a delay line for delaying the said discontinuous flow by a delay interval which is at least equal to the said given time interval, together with a receiver element adapted for receiving the said discontinuous flow delayed by the said delay line and for carrying out, on the said each packet of the said discontinuous flow, a receiving operation with a phase identified on the basis of the said corresponding phase signal.
2. The receiver of
a narrow band receiver element arranged to be centered on the bit rate of the said signals and with an associated generator for generating, from the said signals, a corresponding bit rate signal,
a local clock adapted for generating a corresponding local clock signal with a frequency substantially close to the said bit rate signal, and
a phase comparator arranged to be sensitive to the said bit rate signal and to the said local clock signal and adapted for generating, from the said signals, the said corresponding phase signal.
3. The receiver of
4. The receiver of
5. The receiver of
6. The receiver of
propagation elements for forming different propagation paths for the said discontinuous flow, and
a selection element for selecting the said different propagation paths according to the value of the said corresponding phase signal.
7. The receiver of
8. The receiver of
9. The receiver of
10. A process of receiving signals arranged in packets of data with a corresponding bit rate forming a discontinuous flow, characterized in that it comprises the operations of:
carrying out, for each packet in the said discontinuous flow, a phase locking operation such that a corresponding phase signal, indicating the phase of the data contained in the packet, is generated within a given time interval,
delaying the said discontinuous flow by a delay interval which is at least equal to the said given time interval, and
receiving the said discontinuous flow by carrying out, on the said each packet of the said discontinuous flow, a receiving operation with a phase identified on the basis of the said corresponding phase signal.
11. The process of
generating, from the said signals, a bit rate signal indicating the said corresponding bit rate,
generating a corresponding local clock signal with a frequency substantially close to the said corresponding bit rate, and
comparing the said bit rate signal and the said local clock signal, and generating, from the said signals, the said corresponding phase signal.
12. The process of
13. The process of
14. The process of
15. The process of
forming different propagation paths for the said discontinuous flow, and
selecting the said different propagation paths according to the value of the said corresponding phase signal.
16. The process of
17. The process of
detecting the mean signal value of each packet in the said discontinuous flow, and
carrying out the said receiving operation on the said each packet as a function of the mean signal value detected for the packet.
18. The process of
detecting the mean signal value of each packet in the said discontinuous flow,
carrying out the said receiving operation on the said each packet as a function of the mean signal value detected for the packet, and
detecting on the basis of the said corresponding output signal.
Description The present invention tackles the problem of receiving signals in a discontinuous flow and with a high bit rate. This problem arises, for example, within the switching nodes of packet-switched optical networks. A signal corresponding to a flow of data of the type described above is shown schematically in FIG. 1. Essentially, this is a flow of data at a high bit rate (fc), transmitted from a remote system along an optical fibre, for example, and intended to be received in a receiving device. The data flow in question is structured in packets with a duration of Tp, separated by �guard times�, denoted by Tg, in which no data are transmitted. The time interval between the initial instants of two packets Pi, Pi+1, etc., received in succession is therefore denoted by the interval Ts, where Ts=Tp+Tg. If fc and Tp are known, then the number N of bits in the packet is also known: N=fc�Tp. The problem of the reception of discontinuous data flows of the type specified above arises essentially from the fact that, even if the phase of the data in each packet does not vary significantly throughout the duration of the packet, the packets received in succession usually have phases which are completely uncorrelated with each other. The object of the present invention is to provide a device capable of enabling data flows of the type described above to be received in a precise and reliable way. According to the present invention, this object is achieved by means of a receiver having the characteristics called for in the following claims. The invention also relates to the corresponding process of reception. Briefly, the solution according to the invention provides for the execution, at the time of reception of each packet, of a kind of �pre-reading� of at least part of the packet, with the purpose of acquiring the information relating to the phase (and, preferably, also the mean signal power) of each packet. The information thus acquired is then used for the execution of the actual reading operation. The invention will now be described, purely by way of example and without restrictive intent, with reference to the attached drawings, in which: FIG. 1, relating to the identification of the field of application of the invention, has already been described above, and FIG. 2 shows, in the form of a block diagram, the possible application of the invention to an optical receiver. A receiver according to the invention, indicated as a whole by the number 100, is shown here by way of example in the form of an optical receiver. This is, therefore, a device intended to receive an optical signal (having the characteristics described previously with reference to FIG. 1) from an optical fibre F. An in-fibre power splitter 1 (of a known type), associated with the output end of the fibre F, diverts from the fibre a portion (for example 10%) of the transmitted signal and sends it to a narrow band receiver 2. The term �narrow band receiver� here denotes in general an optical-electrical converter whose sensitivity curve is concentrated around a frequency value equal to a frequency ft equal to the (known) frequency of the clock which generates the packet in transmission. The electrical signal leaving the receiver 2 is sent to a phase locked loop (abbreviated to PLL) circuit 3. After a settling time Ta following the start of each packet (the total Ta is generally shorter than Tp), the phase locked loop circuit 3 generates at a corresponding output 4 a signal whose phase is locked to the phase of the signal generated by the remote transmitter with the frequency ft, the identifier of the bit rate fc. This signal is sent to a mixer 5 together with a signal generated at a frequency fr by a local clock 6. As explained more fully below, the values of ft and fr are identical or at least very close to each other, and therefore the output signal from the mixer 5 is (at least within each packet) proportional to the phase difference φ between the two signals brought to the input of the mixer 5. The signal indicating the phase difference φ is then supplied to an analogue-digital converter 7 which generates, on corresponding output lines indicated by a, b, c and d, logical signals corresponding to the value of φ. In particular, in the currently preferred embodiment of the invention, the aforesaid logical signals are generated�in a known way�according to the following table.
In practice, the one of the outputs a, b, c and d of the device 7 which has the logical value �1� (while all three of the other outputs have the logical value �0�) identifies the quadrant in which the phase difference φ is located. The use of an analogue-digital converter such as that indicated by 7 and/or a parallel configuration of the corresponding outputs is clearly only one of various possible selections which permit the implementation of the desired conversion function. Various alternative solutions (logical networks operating on a plurality of versions of the signal φ with phase differences between them, etc.) are well known to those skilled in the art, and do not require detailed illustration here. The above is also true for the level of resolution of the conversion operation: this is because a more detailed conversion operation can be envisaged and is practicable from the technical point of view, and would have the aim of identifying the location of the phase difference φ not only within one of four quadrants (a resolution of 90�), but also, for example, within one of eight octants (a resolution of 45�), or within one of sixteen angular sectors corresponding to one sixteenth of a round angle, in other words 22.5�, and so on. In general, if: ft denotes the frequency of the clock generating the packet, fr denotes the frequency of the local clock 6 of the receiver receiving the packet, and Δf denotes the absolute difference |ft−fr|, the selection of the level of resolution is related to the requirement to satisfy the relation kN<ft/Δf, where N denotes the number of bits present in the packet and k represents the resolution factor in the detection of the value of the phase difference φ: in the illustrated example, k is equal to 4. This is equivalent to the assumption that the frequencies ft and fr are �substantially close� to each other: this latter wording clearly includes the possibility that the two frequencies in question may be identical to each other. However, the higher resolution and the greater precision which can be achieved by the selection of higher values of k (not necessarily limited to values which are equal to two or which are powers of two) will have the drawback of a greater complexity of the circuit resulting from the adoption of such a solution. This greater complexity also affects the set of parts indicated as a whole by 8 and 9, which are more fully described below. Conversely, it is also possible to envisage a solution intended to provide greater simplicity of the circuit, and consequently having a discrimination of the value of the phase difference φ limited to two sectors each having an angular size of 180�. However, the simplification thus achieved will also have a drawback, in the form of a consequent lower operating precision. However, trials conducted by the applicant up to the present time have demonstrated that the selection of a resolution in four quadrants (k=4) is preferable. The components indicated as a whole by 8 consist of logical gates, their number being equal to the separate values which can be taken by the signal (lines a, b, c, d) emitted by the converter 7. In the illustrated example of an embodiment, therefore, there are four logical gates 8 of the AND type, each of which receives at one of its inputs the logical signal present on one of the output lines a, b, c and d of the converter 7. Consequently, only one of the four gates 8 (identified by the value taken by the phase difference signal φ) is actually enabled and therefore capable of transferring to its output the signal received at the other input. At this other input there is an electrical signal substantially equal to the electrical signal produced by the conversion (carried out in a wide band receiver device indicated by 10) of the �main� optical signal present in the fibre F after the splitter 1 has extracted the portion (�secondary� optical signal) sent to the narrow band receiver 2. The main optical signal is propagated along a portion of fibre 11 of length L such that it introduces a delay τ into the main signal. The length L is chosen in such a way that τ is at least equal to, and therefore greater, than, both Ta (the settling time of the PLL 3 from the start of the packet) and a value Ti defining the settling time of a detector circuit 12. The function of the detector circuit 12 (shown here as being designed to receive the output of the narrow band receiver 2 at its input, but actually capable of being integrated into the receiver 2 itself) is to generate and maintain throughout the duration of the packet a signal corresponding to the mean power value of the received signal. This has the purpose of permitting the fixing of the threshold of discrimination 13 a of a comparator circuit 13 which receives, at 13 b, the electrical signal deriving from the conversion, carried out in the receiver device 10, of the main optical signal delayed by its passage along the fibre 11. The detector 12 is provided in order to enable the comparator circuit 13 to discriminate the values of the signal arriving from the receiver 10 according to an adaptive threshold related to the mean value of the signal within each packet. As stated above, the device essentially consists of a wide band receiver capable of carrying out a correct action of converting the main optical signal including the modulation component. In all of this it differs from the omologous device 2, which is essentially a narrow band receiver centred on the frequency at which the phase locking is to be carried out. The reference 14 indicates a generator, of a known type, capable of generating (according to a command arriving from the exterior or generated, in a known way, in the device 100) a signal such that the detector 12 and the converter 7 are reset when the reception of a packet is complete, to prepare them for the reception of the next packet. The output signal from the comparator 13 is then sent to the inputs of the logical gates 8 in a direct version (supplied to the first of the gates 8) and in the form of three replicas altered by incremental phase shifts or delays applied to the signal as it passes along delay lines 9, each of which applies to the signal brought to its input a delay equal to a quarter of the period Tc corresponding to the bit rate fc of the signal to be received. The signals brought to the input of the second, third and fourth logical gate 8 will therefore have delays of Tc/4, 2Tc/4 and 3Tc/4 respectively with respect to the aforesaid direct version. The reference 15 indicates a further logical gate, shown here as a logical gate of the OR type, but capable of being constructed simply in the form of the configuration normally called �wired OR�, designed to send the signals from the gates 8 to an output flip-flop 16. The flip-flop 16 (which may, for example, be of the D type, clocked at an input 17 by the signal arriving from the local clock 6) receives at the input D the signal from the gate 15, subsequently restoring it�as the received signal�at its output 18. As mentioned above, only one of the logical gates 8 (the one selected by the converter 7) receives a high logical level at its enabling input connected to one of the lines a, b, c, d. Thus only the selected gate 8 will have at its output, connected to the flip-flop 16, the signal corresponding to the main optical signal subjected to a delay which varies according to the logical gate which it has passed through and which therefore depends on the phase difference φ detected at the input of the converter 7. It will be appreciated that it is possible, by a correct selection of the length of the fibre 11 and the subsequent propagation paths, to ensure that the received signal is always in phase (with a precision of Tc/4, or greater when a higher degree of discrimination is used in the converter 7 and in the set of logical gates 8) with the local clock 6, so that it can be sampled in an instant close to the maximum or minimum point, thus minimizing the error rate. The main optical signal, converted into an electrical signal at 10 and subjected to the threshold process at 13 (according to the adaptive threshold value generated at 12) is finally read in the flip-flop 16. To carry out this reading operation correctly, the described solution provides for the generation of a certain number of versions (four in the illustrated example) of the aforesaid electrical signal, these versions being phase shifted by ordered fractions of the bit time Tc. This is done by means of the delay line 9. The phase information relating to the corresponding packet (previously found from the phase locking system comprising the elements 2, 3 and 5 and expressed by the logical values a, b, c, d present at the output of the converter 7) is used to enable the logical gate 8 which has at its input the version of the signal to be read, whose phase corresponds, with a precision of Tc/4, to the phase detected by the phase locking system by the �pre-reading� of the packet. The described solution is therefore essentially based on the extraction (by the splitter 1) of part of the input optical signal which can be said to be subjected to pre-reading for the purpose of locking its phase (and preferably the mean power level). All of this takes place while the main optical signal, to be subjected to the actual receiving operation, is temporarily set aside, being made to pass along a delay line, so that it can be read subsequently, using the information on the phase (and on the mean power level) of the packet obtained in the meantime. In other words, in the solution according to the invention, the operation of phase locking (and detection of the level) is separated from the actual receiving operation, which is delayed until the phase (and level) information is available. This makes it possible, in the case of discontinuous signals to which reference was made previously in relation to FIG. 1, to operate in conditions in which, while one data packet Pi, previously received and delayed in the fibre 11, is first read and then received in the set of elements indicated by 8, 9, 10, 13, 15 and 16, the phase (and the mean level) of the next packet Pi+1 is already being identified in the set of parts 2, 3, 5, 7 and 12. All this is done in order to proceed, on the basis of the information which is thus obtained, to the reception�carried out at a subsequent moment�of this new packet. Clearly, provided that the principle of the invention is retained, the details of embodiment and the forms of application can be varied widely with respect to what has been described and illustrated, without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention. This is particularly true, for example, of the following aspects: the possibility of applying the same reception criteria to non-optical signals; the possibility of providing the differentiated propagation paths, identified in the illustrated example as components 8 and 9, upline rather than downline of the receiving operation carried out by the device 13, and/or the possibility of making these different propagation paths within a transmission medium whose propagation time is selectively variable, possibly in a continuous way. Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Rotate |