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Sea level correction
A new study shows that sea levels have increased over the last two decades at a greater rate than previously understood.
Sounding out speech
A new study demonstrates that infants as young as 6 months can solve the invariance problem in speech perception.
The divergent skull
New work by Harvard scientists challenges long-standing ideas on skull development in vertebrates.
A cost of culture
A new study, authored by Collin McCabe, a doctoral student in Harvard's Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, suggests that increased exposure to disease has played an important role in the evolution of culture in both humans and non-human primates.
Reproductive strategies
When compared with a solitary strategy of producing offspring who then go on to produce their own offspring, a new Harvard study has found that eusociality is a high-risk, high-reward gamble.
Oxford and beyond
Rhodes Scholars Ruth Fong and Benjamin Sprung-Keyser both are driven by a desire to improve the world around them.
How mosquitoes home in
A team of researchers has identified a key genetic variation that helps mosquitoes "smell" humans. The study could open the door to new strategies to ward off the pests.
A lifetime of scholarship, recognized
Steven Shapin, the Franklin L. Ford Research Professor in the History of Science, whose scholarship has had a wide-reaching impact on both the history and sociology of science, has been awarded the 2014 Sarton Medal for Lifetime Scholarly Achievement by the History of Science Society.
Funding the next generation of scholars
Twenty undergraduates from around the world will have the chance to get hands-on experience in Harvard labs this summer, thanks to a four-year renewable grant to expand the Amgen Scholars Program to the University.
Online hub for social science
The Digital Lab for the Social Sciences is designed to serve as an online clearinghouse where social scientists can find study participants.
Rapid-fire evolution
Faced with stiff competition from an invading species, a Harvard study has found that green anoles evolved larger toe pads equipped with more sticky scales to allow for better climbing in just 20 generations over 15 years.
A hidden risk
A new study by S. Allen Counter, clinical professor of neurology and director of the Harvard Foundation, shows that high levels of lead, as well as other toxic metals such as mercury and cadmium, can pass from mother to child through breast milk.
Toward genetic editing
Led by David Liu, professor of chemistry and chemical biology, a team of Harvard researchers developed a system that uses commercially available molecules called cationic lipids to deliver genome-editing proteins into cells.
Status shift for whale pelvic bones
New research challenges the notion that the small pelvic bones found in whales are evolutionary vestiges.
Mixed results in report on concussions
While most colleges and universities in the National Collegiate Athletic Association have created programs to help diagnose and treat concussions sustained by their athletes, many are not fully meeting the NCAA's standards, according to new research.
Fannie Cox Prize to Burton, Musunuru
Briana Burton, associate professor of molecular and cellular biology, and Kiran Musunuru, an assistant professor of stem cell and regenerative biology, have been named the winners of the 2014 Fannie Cox Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching.
Miles to go
Harvard physicist Jenny Hoffman has a passion for distance. Last month in Cleveland she brought home the 2014 national championship in USA Track and Field's 24-Hour Run, posting a final distance of more than 127 miles.
Funding for projects with promise
Four scientists from across Harvard will receive nearly $8 million in grant funding through the National Institutes of Health's High Risk-High Reward program to support research into a variety of biomedical questions, ranging from how the bacterial cell wall is constructed to how the blood-brain barrier works.
Study of lizards shows trade as a force in biodiversity
New research shows that trade is one of the major drivers of biodiversity among lizard species in the Caribbean islands.
A read on seawater sulfate
A tool developed by Professor David Johnston and colleagues might help shed light on biogeochemical cycling in oxygen minimum zones.
All goes swimmingly
Using simple hydrodynamics, a team of Harvard researchers was able to show that a handful of principles govern how virtually every animal — from the tiniest fish to birds to the largest whales — propel themselves through the water.
Deadly violence a natural tendency in chimps, study finds
A new study shows that chimps engage in violent and sometimes even lethal behavior regardless of human effects on local ecology.
Cutting the cord on soft robots
Researchers at Harvard's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering have developed the world's first untethered soft robot — a quadruped that can stand up and walk away from its designers.
Magnetic attraction
Harvard scientists have developed a system for using magnetic levitation technology to manipulate nonmagnetic materials, potentially enabling manufacturing with materials that are too fragile for traditional methods.
From chance meeting, a chance to save lives
Harvard scientists have developed a new test for sickle cell disease that provides results in just 12 minutes and costs as little as 50 cents — far faster and cheaper than other tests.
Forces of isolation
Research led by a Harvard biologist demonstrated a method for measuring the strength of selection in favor of reproductive isolation.
When cooperation counts
A new study conducted by Harvard scientists shows that in deer mice, a species known to be highly promiscuous, sperm clump together to swim in a more linear fashion, increasing their chances of fertilization.
Fighting unfairness
A new study by Harvard scientists suggests that, from a young age, children are biased in favor of their own social groups when they intervene in what they believe are unfair situations. But as they get older, they can learn to become more impartial.
Sense of scents
A new study sheds light on the extent to which animals can make distinctions among scents.
Neurons at work
Using genetic tools to implant genes that produce fluorescent proteins in the DNA of transparent C. elegans worms, Harvard scientists have been able to shed light on neuron-specific "alternative splicing," a process that allows a single gene to produce many different proteins.
A new view of gentrification
Researchers used Google Street View to conduct a study of gentrification in Chicago.
Help for halting autism symptoms
A new study shows that boosting inhibitory neurotransmission early in brain development can help reverse deficits in inhibitory circuit maturation that are associated with autism.
Adam Cohen receives 2014 Blavatnik Award
Adam Cohen, professor of chemistry and chemical biology and of physics, has been named one of three winners of the 2014 Blavatnik National Awards, which honor young scientists and engineers who have demonstrated important insights in their respective fields and who show exceptional promise going forward.
Cheese-based research
Bauer Fellow Rachel Dutton has identified three general types of microbial communities that live on cheese, opening the door to using each as a "model" community for the study of whether and how various microbes and fungi compete or cooperate as they form communities, as well as what molecules and mechanisms are involved in the process.
Untangling spider webs
The largest-ever phylogenetic spider study shows that, contrary to popular opinion, the two groups of spiders that weave orb-shaped webs do not share a single origin.
Viewing how neurons work
A new technique for observing neural activity will allow scientists to stimulate neurons and observe their firing pattern in real time. Tracing those neural pathways can help researchers answer questions about how neural signals propagate, and could one day allow doctors to design individualized treatments for a host of disorders.
Sizing up bacteria
A new theoretical framework outlined by a Harvard scientist could help solve the mystery of how bacterial cells coordinate processes that are critical to cellular division, such as DNA replication, and how bacteria know when to divide.
Harvesting energy from devices
Heat is a byproduct of nearly all electronic devices, yet most of it goes wasted. In an effort to recapture some of that energy and transform it into electricity, a team of Harvard and University of Sannio researchers have developed computer simulations to control the flow of heat and electrical current independently.
Tomorrow isn't such a long time
A study by Harvard researchers and colleagues tested ways to encourage decisions mindful of future generations.
5 named Harvard College Professors
Their scholarly interests range from the design of programming languages to health economics to the molecular changes that influence evolutionary fitness. One thing the five faculty members who were awarded Harvard College Professorships in recent weeks have in common is a gift for instilling passion for education in their students.
Worrisome growth pattern
Forest growth is starting to show the effects of climate change, new research finds.
Delving into dark matter
Harvard physicists have suggested that a disk of dark matter may lie along the center line of the galaxy.
Reading shapes
A team of Harvard researchers has demonstrated that a shared developmental mechanism in songbirds is responsible for generating tremendous variability in their beaks, and is also a control on what kind variation can be produced.
Beyond the horizon
Harvard is immersed in understanding the world and improving it. Here's how the University is making a difference now, and likely will do so in the next decade, in five key fields.
Strategy for diabetes treatment
Harvard scientists have discovered a compound that inhibits insulin-degrading enzyme from breaking down insulin in the body.
Parental controls
It could be that the key to being a better parent is all in your head, Harvard researchers say.
Flipping the switch
Harvard researchers have succeeded in creating quantum switches that can be turned on and off using a single photon, an achievement that could pave the way for the creation of highly secure quantum networks.
Annals of climate
Professor Michael McCormick will lead a project aimed at constructing the most detailed historical record yet of European climate.
Meaningful meal
Donors and students recently gathered for the Celebration of Scholarships dinner, an annual event that brings together students who benefit from financial aid with donors who support the program.
MRI, on a molecular scale
A team of scientists led by Professor of Physics and of Applied Physics Amir Yacoby has developed a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system that can produce nanoscale images, and may one day allow researchers to peer into the atomic structure of individual molecules.


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Natural handmade soaps with all natural exfoliating goodies like sand, seeds, oats, pumice and more.
French Lavender Essential Oil & Oats
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text: POPSUGAR Fashion Victoria's Secret Show Off Your Assets in Victoria's Secret's New Push-Up Lace Racerback! by Sponsor 4/18/11 0 Shares Print 0 0 0 0 0 View Transcript » Transcript Read More AdvertorialVictoria's Secret Get chic with our daily newsletter Enjoy street style trends, runway looks, and the best in celeb beauty in your inbox. Beauty Tips Street Style Celebrity Style Fashion & Beauty News Sign up with


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It's been rumored Jennifer Aniston is dating Justin Theroux -- and now there's proof!TooFab caught the former "Friends" star and Theroux, who starred in "Charlie's Angels" and wrote "Iron Man 2," after a dinner date last night at one of Jen's favorite places: Sunset Tower.The two met on the set of their upcoming movie together "Wonderlust" and, according to PEOPLE, Jen has already introduced him to her best friends Courteney Cox and Chelsea Handler.Aniston, 42, and Theroux, 39, have reportedly been seeing each other for a few weeks.
John: 1340 days ago
He looks like the late George Carlin. Love is blind I guess.
IA: 1339 days ago
he is very hot than brad patti sorry
Debbie: 1339 days ago
I hope they are together and happy. Jen deserves it. Anyone would be better than weiney man Brad Pitt.
IA: 1322 days ago
justin very hot than brad..
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Electronic and Mechanical Found a steal of a deal? Share the wealth! Link them here |
| Thread Tools | Search this Thread |
10-04-2007, 05:33 PM | #11 (permalink) |
Rec Poster Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Tucson, AZ |
I just got a pretty much stock cocker RF (with a J&J barrel) that had a busted trigger frame and LPR for $20 on eBay. The guy using it must have taken quite a tumble to snap the trigger frame! Anywho, I ended up canabalizing the pump kit and trigger frame off of the Lightning and the WGP functions flawlessly. It's amazing how different in weight the WGP and Lightning is! Anyone want a Lightning missing a pump kit and trigger frame???
10-11-2007, 06:55 PM | #12 (permalink) |
Rec Poster Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Tucson, AZ |
Something else to consider... iisports does not necessarily have an item reserved for each auction. When I got mine, there was a significant delay because they were sold out. I gave them neutral feedback on it because it came after the memorial day game I was planning on bringing it to for a friend. Of course, iisports just now got to it and sent a message as to why they got the neutral. I explained my reasons to them and then looked at their most recent feedback. Looks like there have been some issues with the Lightnings: mailed in envelopes and received broken, old or defective o-rings, etc. Just a heads up. My suggestion is to hold out for a cheap WGP (selling a stock cocker is like trying to sell a home mowadays). You'll be happier in the long run! |
10-15-2007, 12:11 AM | #14 (permalink) |
Kool Mod |
It I&I sports selling them. You can get them from their website also.
__________________ ________________________________________________ www.thealternativesport.com MCB Feedback |
10-15-2007, 05:02 AM | #15 (permalink) |
Douchbaggery specialist Join Date: May 2007 Location: Far northern california |
Right now I&I has tactical trilogy's for $56 and they have never had a particularly sterling reputation. I mean seriously they sell paintball stuff AND martial arts equipment. They had might as well start selling curling pucks too. Its like shopping for auto parts a Kragan/ Schucks/ Checkers. Don't do it unless its your last option and you know EXACTLY what you need. Madmox
__________________ www.pumpplayers.org at least its RIP here. Feedback http://www.mcarterbrown.com/forums/f...-feedback.html |
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BB&T Corp.'s profits rose in the fourth quarter from a year ago and beat Wall Street estimates as the bank benefited from fewer bad loans on its books.
Fourth-quarter earnings rose to $537 million, or 75 cents a diluted share, from $506 million, or 71 cents, a year earlier, the Winston-Salem-based bank said. Analysts had estimated 71 cents for the recent quarter.
Revenue fell to $2.4 billion from $2.5 billion, as the bank's residential mortgage banking profit fell by $58 million, the largest decline by dollar amount of any of BB&T's seven segments. Like at other banks, BB&T's mortgage income has declined amid a slowdown in mortgage originations as interest rates rise, causing refinancing activity to wane.
Compared with a year ago, the bank saw an increase in profits in its community banking, dealer financial services, insurance services and treasury and corporate segments.
BB&T's fourth quarter results were helped by a release of $70 million from reserves to cover loans that go bad. As borrowers do a better job of paying off their loans, banks have been able to increase their profits by pulling money from such reserves.
BB&T said its 2013 earnings of $1.6 billion would have set a record of $2.1 billion had it not lost a legal battle with the Internal Revenue Service over the bank's use of foreign tax credits. The bank said its 2013 results were affected by a $516 million tax adjustment it had to make as a result of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims ruling against the bank in September.
Roberts: 704-358-5248; Twitter: @DeonERoberts
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Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Bureau
565, Fifth Avenue - 23rd Floor
New York, N.Y. 10017
Tel: +1 212 286 33 30
Fax: +1 212 286 98 90
Toll free (USA): (800) 753 9696
The world's best athletes will meet at the Louis II Stadium for the tenth stage of the Diamond League
Last year, the Herculis Meeting gave many athletes the opportunity to produce world-class performances. It was on that evening that Asbel Kiprop became the fourth fastest runner of all time.
This year, the program includes 16 events: eight for men (200m, 400m, 1,500m, 110m H, 3,000m SC, high jump, long jump, discus) and eight for women (100m, 800m, 5,000m, 400m H, pole vault, triple jump, javelin, shot put). An additional event, the men's 800m, is also planned.
The usual 1,000m races will be held between 10 am and 6.30 pm.
The Herculis Meeting will conclude with the traditional musical fireworks display.
As part of the run-up to the Herculis 2014 meeting, there are plans to hold a pole-vaulting tour of Côte d'Azur beaches. The tour will hit the Promenade at Nice on Sunday July 13, the beach at Villefranche-sur-Mer on Tuesday July 15, Larvotto Beach in Monaco on Wednesday July 16 and Les Sablettes beach in Menton on Thursday July 17.
The organizers advise spectators to make use of public transport, particularly the train, since agreements have been reached with SNCF for trains running to and from Nice. In order to improve access, for spectators arriving by car there will be a 3 euro parking fee in place from 12 pm in the following parking lots: Louis II Stadium, St Antoine, Ecoles, Saint Nicolas, Port, Heliport and La Colle.
Herculis Meeting
Friday July 18, 2014 from 7 pm to 10 pm
For more information, see www.herculis.comNumber of views : 374
83rd Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo from January 19 to 25, 2015
Discover the Mediterranean with the Mediterraneo Monaco Association
"The Chakras – the Universe Within Us" Course with Yoga Shala Monaco
Special "Ladies and Children" Introductory Krav Maga Classes in Monaco
The "Duo Jumelles" – Twins in Concert at Monaco's Anglican Church
Monaco Tourist and Convention Authority's Press Relations Campaign in Dubai
A Major Event in Monaco - Marion Cotillard in the Role of Joan of Arc!
565, Fifth Avenue - 23rd Floor
New York, N.Y. 10017
Tel: +1 212 286 33 30
Fax: +1 212 286 98 90
Toll free (USA): (800) 753 9696


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Now Playing
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- High Speed Rail: Comparing California's Future Bullet Train To Taiwan's
- Is Kern County The Next Frontier For Aerospace Innovation?
- California Tightens Rules On Popular Pesticide For Strawberries, Almonds
- Drainage Key To Reported Deal Between Farmers And Feds
- New Program Could Mean End For UCSF- Fresno, Valley Children's Partnership
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The Two-Way
3:45 pm
Fri May 9, 2014
Judge Strikes Down Arkansas Ban On Gay Marriage
A judge in Arkansas has struck down the state's ban on same-sex marriage, a move that clears the way for gay couples to wed.
Here's the judge's order, via Chris Johnson, chief political and White House reporter for the Washington Blade.
The Associated Press reports that Pulaski County Circuit Judge Christopher Piazza said that the state's 2004 voter-approved constitutional amendment that defined marriage as between a man and a woman violates the constitution.
Last week, state Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, who says he supports gay marriage rights, announced he would defend the constitutional ban in court. His office is expected to appeal Friday's ruling to the state Supreme Court.
Friday's decision makes Arkansas the latest state in which judges have struck down bans on gay marriage. Judges in Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and Virginia have struck down their state's bans, while those in Kentucky, Ohio and Tennessee have ordered the states to recognize same-sex marriages from other states.
Those decisions follow a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year that said a law barring the federal government from recognizing gay marriages was unconstitutional.


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An Activity Center for Northwest Suburban Older Active Adults
The Frisbie Senior Center is a drop-in activity center for older active adults living in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Through the Center, our membership and non-member daily users have access to a 20,000-square foot, ADA-accessible facility that offers well over 65 different program and service types – some occurring multiple times throughout the month. Aside from a variety of social and recreational activities offered, we also strive to serve as a resource clearinghouse, connecting individuals with organizations that can provide much-needed services to address the issues facing today's seniors.
This is the time of year to watch out for your neighbor. Falling temperatures and snow and ice are signs of the season, and can create challenges and hazards for the elderly and others in your community. While local police departments and social service agencies provide well being checks, they also look to community members to help identify potential emergencies.
Some signs that a neighbor may be in need of assistance or a well-being check:
• driveway or sidewalk not cleared of snow
• neighbors with ambulatory difficulty not leaving the house
• mail or newspapers not being picked up
• containers not being moved to the curb or picked up from the curb
• lights in the house on/off at all hours of the day
• failure to repair structural damage to the home
If you feel that a neighbor or resident may be in need of a well being visit, please contact the Des Plaines Police Department (non-emergency line) @ 847.391.5400.
Located in the Cumberland Commons shopping center at the northeast corner of the Mount Prospect Road and Northwest Highway intersection on the border of Mount Prospect and Des Plaines at:
Des Plaines, IL 60016
- We are now open Monday and Thursday 8:30 am – 8:00 pm; Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 am – 4:00 pm.
We are easily accessible by bus, cab, or train, and we have plenty of parking.
Everyone is welcome to participate in our programs and service offerings – you don't need to be a resident of Des Plaines to take advantage of our offerings.
If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at the Frisbie Senior Center, please contact us at: 847-768-5944 to learn more about our center. We are in need of volunteers for Meals on Wheels. Please call if you would be interested in delivering meals.


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Undercover police will dress as San Francisco 49ers fans to prevent violence at Seattle Seahawks game at CenturyLink Field. Even Taiwanese press have made a video to illustrate the dangers.
(Mary Orlin/Bay Area News Group) Winter Fancy Food Show: Top 10 trends Winter Fancy Food Show trends that will show up on your plate in 2015 |
Eddie Murphy returning to 'Saturday Night Live' The actor and comedian will appear on "SNL's" 40th anniversary episode, marking his first time on the show in 31 years. |


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Bosch Tools
DEWALT Tools
Hitachi Tools
Ingersoll Rand Tools
Makita Tools
Milwaukee Tools
Porter Cable Tools
Skil Tools
Hitachi C18DSLP4 18V, 6-1/2" Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
Product Description
This 18V 6 1/2" Circular Saw (C18DSLP4) from Hiatchi is compatible with the Hitachi Lithium Ion 18V slide style batteries. Featuring a left-mounted blade for convenience, this saw also has built-in spotlight for improved visibility of the cut line, as well as a soft elastomer grip for added comfort that is reduce fatigue.
- This tool body is compatible with Hitachi Lithium Ion slide style 18V batteries
- The soft elastomer grip reduces fatigue for improved comfort
- Features a left-mounted, 6-1/2" blade for convenience
- The fan cooled motor increases run time and maximum power
- The built-in spot light provides improved visibility of cut line
- The bevel angle adjusts up to 50 degrees for accurate cuts for various applications
- Tool Only
In The Box
In The Box
- One (1) Hitachi 18V, 6-1/2" Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
- One (1) Rip Guide
- One (1) Box Wrench
- One (1) 24 Tooth Carbide Tipped Blade
- For cutting various materials
Additional Information
Manufacturer's SKU | C18DSLP4 |
Brand | Hitachi |
Additional | No |
Safety Info | No |
Shipping Weight | 10.0000 |
Battery Voltage | 18 Volts |
Tool Length | No |
Condition | New |
Product Weight (lbs.) | No |
Manufacturer's Warranty | 5 Years |
Return Policy | 30 Days |
Addl Specs |
Video | No |
Related Products
Related Products
- 18V Lithium Ion Battery: EBM1830


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Hero Showdown: Ryu vs. Ken
February 17, 2009 - When Capcom released the beta for Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix last year, it only included two playable characters: Ryu and Ken. For many gamers, that was enough. As long as Street Fighter has existed, these two fighters have dominated the hearts and minds of gamers. When asked what your favorite Street Fighter character is the only correct answers are Ryu or Ken. Some people will try to be cute and pick Dan, but don't listen to them. So as Street Fighter IV lands in stores, we're celebrating the two titans of street fighting by pitting them against each other in a Hero Showdown. Fighting is what these two do for a living, after all. Now is your chance to vote and decide once and for all which of these barefoot ass-kickers is really the greatest fighter of all time. Cast your vote and continue the fight by posting in the comments section below.
IGN Presents the History of Street Fighter
February 16, 2009 - It is a matter of skill. Two warriors meet to test themselves against wildly different styles of combat. They are Russian wrestlers and tonfa-swinging Englishmen, American boxers, Indian mystics, New York brawlers, crazed jungle monsters and quiet masters of the martial arts. Blunt instrument or elegant weapon, the choice of discipline isn't important. Skill alone determines the outcome.
Arcade Stick Throwdown: Hori vs. Mad Catz
February 12, 2009 - With the North American and European launches of Street Fighter IV just around the corner, its time to pick up a new arcade fighting stick or two for what promises to be an irrevocably deep fighting game experience. As it stands there are two manufacturers fighting for you consumer dollar: Hori and Mad Catz. Hori recently introduced their premium fighting stick, the Real Arcade Pro. EX, and also has a compact fighting stick, the EX2. Mad Catz, on the other hand, recently scored an official license from Capcom for Street Fighter IV for their own premium and compact fighting sticks: the Tournament Edition FightStick, and the standard FightStick.
Stars Thunderdome: Ryu vs. Sub-Zero
February 5, 2009 - Hero Showdowns always test the fighting skills of two combatants, but rarely do both gladiators actually specialize in the martial arts. Today is a rare exception. Today, we bring together master warriors from two of the gaming industry's most venerated fighting franchises – Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. On the left side, we have Ryu. This student of Gouken and master of the Shotokan style has made mincemeat of every villain that has ever crossed his path. Sub-Zero is a reluctant hero who can bend the forces of nature themselves to create icy death traps for his enemies.
The Many Looks of the Street Fighter
January 29, 2009 - 2009, it seems, is the year that the Street Fighter series finally makes its big comeback. It never really went away, of course, but for a long time it wasn't the videogaming fixture that it was back in the 16-bit age. This year, though, we've got a brand new Street Fighter game, a brand new Street Fighter movie, and a whole bunch of new looks for classic characters who've been around since the series first broke big.
OCD: Street Fighter II's Chicken Choker
January 22, 2009 - In honor of the imminent release of Street Fighter IV, today's OCD peels back the curtains of time to recall one of the more oddball background characters in the series' history. As fans well know, life continues on in the background of Street Fighter's many levels, with many pedestrians attempting to go about their daily lives despite the chaos and bloodshed about them.
Players Wanted: Street Fighter IV
January 8, 2009 - Naturally, a huge point of contention for any fighting game is its selection of characters. One thing that is immediately obvious with SFIV is that fans of SFII will be greatly pleased, while fans of the SFIII and SF Alpha games might feel a bit left out. We noticed the odd SFII slant, and we're here to lend our two cents on the matter. We've put together a Players Wanted piece for SFIV, where we list the characters we feel most deserve a slot on the playable roster. Whether these characters appear as part of the console release r down the road as DLC, we don't want to see them left out in the cold.
Street Fighter IV Update
October 8, 2008 - The list of playable characters for the home version of Street Fighter IV just added a few more names.
Top 25 Street Fighter Characters - Day IV
August 7, 2008 - The top half of the top 10 in our list of Street Fighter's all-time greats, including a couple of the franchise's most enduring favorites.
Top 25 Street Fighter Characters - Day III
August 6, 2008 - The Street Fighter character countdown continues with the clown prince of combat, Dan Hibiki, Balrog, E. Honda, and the original boss of the World Warrior tournament.
Top 25 Street Fighter Characters - Day II
August 5, 2008 - The Street Fighter character countdown continues with fighters from Street Fighter III, Street Fighter Alpha, and a certain famous face from Super Street Fighter II.
Top 25 Street Fighter Characters - Day I
August 4, 2008 - Here is what the IGN staff considers the greatest World Warriors to ever stand and trade fierce punches. Check back throughout the week to see where your personal favorites happened to land in the rankings.


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By Sport
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NBA - All Sports
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By Section
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24 results for "bill james"
Projecting 2013-14 win totals for last season's outlier teams - N...
Justin KubatkoUsing his team strength formula to calculate expected win totals among NBA clubs, Justin Kubatko examines five teams that missed their expected win total by four or more games in 2012-13 and outlines their prospects for 2013-14. Will the Heat regress?
Story | Conversation | September 16, 2013 -
Baseball Stat Guru Bill James: NBA Doomed
Henry AbbottThe blog Shea Faithful interviewed the godfather of baseball statistics, Bill James (via Deadspin), who is now a senior baseball operations advisor to the Boston Red Sox. (Bill James on Wikipedia.) James was asked about the oddity of St. Louis barely...
Blog | March 27, 2007 -
NBA: LeBron James wants to be hero in Cleveland
Brian WindhorstLeBron James has accomplished a lot in his career, but the one thing left to do is become a hero in Cleveland, writes Brian Windhorst.
Story | Conversation | October 30, 2014 -
2014 NBA playoffs -- Kawhi Leonard of San Antonio Spurs named Fin...
Kawhi Leonard could have been devastated by losing last season's NBA Finals.
Story | Conversation | June 15, 2014 -
Kobe Bryant puts Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Bill ...
LeBron James said he'll be there one day, but Kobe Bryant said Bill Russell is there right now.
Story | Conversation | February 16, 2014 -
Kansas Jayhawks freshman Andrew Wiggins not fully appreciated bec...
Jean-Jacques TaylorThe true talent of Kansas Jayhawks freshman Andrew Wiggins can't be properly appreciated because we're too busy comparing him to LeBron James and the NBA's best.
Story | Conversation | February 06, 2014 -
2013 NBA Finals: LeBron James' historical postseason run
Kevin PeltonKevin Pelton puts LeBron's postseason in historical perspective.
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text:
Wednesday-Friday - 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
Admission is free to all. Donations are accepted.
The Museum of Culture and Environment is located on the first floor of Dean Hall on the Central Washington University campus. The street address is:
1200 N. D St. |
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7544 |
Parking on campus is free on Saturdays. Weekday parking permits for campus lots are currently $5.00. Please stop at the Welcome Center on University Avenue or one of the Parking Permit dispensers available in many lots. The nearest lot to the Museum is lot O-5.
Free weekday parking is available in lots:
Hanna Person, who graduated this month from Central Washington University with a degree in anthropo
CWU Museum Exhibit How Did The Cougar Cross The Road? Opens April 17April 8, 2014 ELLENSBURG, Wash. — Central Washington University's Museum of Culture and Environm
CWU Museum Hosts Salmon Run And Earth Day Family FestivalThe Museum of Culture and Environment will be holding its second annual Salmon 5K/10K Run and Earth


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As a lady, I find that I often unconsciously gravitate to books with female narrators or protagonists. Don't get me wrong, I don't necessarily prefer them to male-driven books, but I generally feel far more of an intrinsic emotional connection to female voices than I do to those of men (with the obvious exception of my homicidal spirit animal, Patrick Bateman). I've observed that, as with all things, there are certain "types" of female characters (in fiction and in memoirs and biographies) — not necessarily stereotypes, but overriding themes of personality that are in many ways the driving force behind the story being told. After the jump, a short list of some of the most prevalent personalities in literature, and the best and most prolific of each.
5 Types Of Female Literary Voices And The Best Reads They Have To Offer
Posted Under: books, crack a book week, galleries, rad reads week


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Source: 14 November 2005 Daily Southerner newspaper, Tarboro, NC ANN M. KOMANECKY HALIFAX - Ann Mae Komanecky, 78, of Halifax, died Friday, Nov. 11, 2005. A graveside service was held Sunday in Edgecombe Memorial Park in Tarboro with the Rev. Julian Thompson officiating. She is survived by a daughter, Kathy Avery of Halifax; and a brother, Sam Assad. Funeral arrangements were by Carlisle Funeral Home, Tarboro. Notify Administrator about this message?
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Ash Moth
102,388pages on
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This article or section is a Mists of Pandaria stub. You can help expand it by editing it.
Not yet released!
Ash Moth | |
Race | Moth (Beast) |
Level | 8 |
Health | 312 |
Reaction | Alliance Horde |
Location | Pei-Wu Forest, Wandering Isle |
Ash Moths can be found flitting near the trees of the Pei-Wu Forest in the southwestern region of the Wandering Isle. They seem to be generally solitary.
Patch changes
- β Patch 5.0.1 (Beta): Added


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From the Manufacturer
No need to choose between fashion and health. This snap-front footed romper in organic cotton double knit with a subtle diamond pattern is the best choice to give your baby a good start in life. Made from soft 100% certified organic cotton that is healthy to use and soft on baby's skin. Manufactured without harmful chemicals, the comfortable romper dresses your baby in style. Available in cocoa, sage and salmon. Machine-washable. Organics by Tadpoles - good for your baby's future.


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Most emcees are willing to stretch the truth a little (or a lot) for the sake of a good rhyme – not Crooked I. As the West Coast underground mainstay explains on the lead single off his forthcoming EP, "I'm doin' Everythang I rap about." Dirty Dunnz keeps it minimal on the production tip, cooking up a percussion-driven instrumental laced with sampled gunshots (and featuring a snippet from fellow Slaughterhouse member Joe Budden's Pump It Up) as Mr. Pig Face Weapon Waist does what he does best, interlacing tales of his one-hundred percent factual exploits with trash talk and vividly-phrased boasts: When I'm spittin' I hope you're findin' the art. When I'm rhymin' I'm minin' for diamonds, I shine in the dark / I'm a neurologist-slash-cardiologist, I touch your mind and your heart." Has Crook killed it yet again? I think I know the answer, but I'll let you have the final say. Those digging it can find plenty more from the Cali vet on his Planet C.O.B. Vol. 1 EP, set to drop August 17. In addition, fans who pre-order the project now will receive Gangsta Cry, an outtake from the B.O.S.S. sessions, as an exclusive bonus!
Written by richard on 07/18/10
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I turned xx a few days back. I had a party for the NephroPlus team at home the night before. My parents were very keen on having the clinical staff over. For the last three years Sandeep has been coming home to surprise me at midnight with a bunch of people from the company and I actually cut the cake while on dialysis! So, this year, my parents wanted to have a gathering of the whole team at home. I sent out the invite to all a few days before hand. People were excited. The Center Manager from our Chennai center and one of our technicians from Mahbubnagar actually came all the way to Hyderabad just for my party! On the day of the party, we had about eighty people attend the party and we had a fantastic time. We played a game of Antakshari as well apart from a whole lot of singing and dancing. We brought in my birthday at midnight and wound up by about 1. I got a bunch of gifts as well. Many of them were personalized and I realized that a lot of effort had gone in in putting this together! The next day, on my actual birthday, I had dinner at my favorite restaurant in town, Little Italy with my family. The good times continued on the 29th as well. In the morning, we had a huge family gathering at an aunt's house (not birthday related, but had a lot of great food and fun!). That evening, I met some friends over dinner at another good place - Olive Bistro. So, it was an awesome three days of fun! |
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General calls for more speed, efficiency during 'State of ESC' address
Electronic Systems Center Commander Lt. Gen. Ted Bowlds delivers his fourth and final 'State of ESC' address at the Marriott Hotel in Newton, Mass., Jan. 26, 2011. The general said the center had performed well in 2010 but called for even greater speed and efficiency going forward. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Berry)
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General calls for more speed, efficiency during 'State of ESC' address
Posted 1/27/2011 Updated 1/27/2011
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by Chuck Paone
66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
1/27/2011 -
NEWTON, Mass.
-- Delivering his fourth and final State of ESC address, Electronic Systems Center Commander Lt. Gen. Ted Bowlds said the center had performed well against some specific targets he set a year ago.
He delivered the address Jan. 26 at the Marriott Hotel in Newton, Mass., and his speech was simulcast live to Hanscom Air Force Base desktop computers. It came at the conclusion of the one-and-a-half-day New Horizons Symposium, which like the address itself, is sponsored by the Lexington-Concord Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association.
As he's done in previous years, the commander literally graded the center on how well it met the five major tenets of his 2010 Commander's Intent. While he's never been shy about dishing out tough grades - last year's report card included a C, a C-minus and a D - this year's results were considerably better.
"We've made great progress from the standpoint of what we're being asked to do to support the warfighter, and in terms of making this new [program executive officer] construct stand up and be effective," General Bowlds said.
His highest mark came in response to efforts to "support the components of being a good wingman," where taking care of deployers and their family members helped ESC earn an A-minus. Multiple "Year of the Air Force Family" events also contributed.
The lowest marks this year were only B-minuses and came on two fronts: seamless transition to the new PEO structure; and executing as an enterprise. In both cases, the general acknowledged successes and problems.
He expressed pride in ESC's ability to execute its program management responsibilities, so customers were never adversely affected by the transition from wings, groups and squadrons to the new PEO alignment. On the other hand, some internal confusion and conflict did crop up.
Given the nature of the restructure, operating the center as a single enterprise was bound to be challenging. General Bowlds said center-level forums and exchanges among PEOs helped, but that standardizing processes and reigning in "rogue" processes remains an issue.
"The worst thing that could happen," he said, "is if six PEOs are doing business six different ways."
General Bowlds awarded Bs for the remaining two components of his 2010 Intent. He said that the center had mostly achieved its workforce management targets, meeting its hiring goals and successfully on-boarding new employees. At the same time, he cautioned that the recent hiring boom is probably over and that, as a result, a more flexible workforce will be needed.
Even at that, "with the amount of people we've got and the amount of work we're doing, something's got to give," the general said, predicting that program reductions will likely result.
As for agile acquisition, he said some progress has clearly been made. He also noted that some, including members of the acquisition community outside of ESC, remained reluctant to deviate from traditional acquisition approaches.
Going forward, ESC will need to improve core processes and get new technologies transitioned into systems faster and more efficiently, even as Pentagon oversight increases, he noted.
General Bowlds also told the mostly industry crowd in attendance that, "We need your best work upfront. There won't be enough resources to fix (problems) later."
Transitioning to the year ahead, the general identified a number of challenges, including budget reductions and Pentagon mandates, both in terms of efficiencies and a reduction in services contracts. Some challenges will also present opportunities, he said.
The general's prescription: ESC should make the most of its enterprise approach to acquisition, to using open technologies and architectures, filling urgent warfighting needs, providing "end-to-end testing and mission assurance," and finding and implementing its own efficiencies.
He said individual PEO priorities cannot trump overall enterprise needs, and that the "Knights of the Round Table" approach should help make center-wide program prioritization collaborative, transparent and fair.
Industry, too, should remain focused on this approach, he said. "Think about the enterprise; don't bring us stove-piped solutions."
All the PEOs, with functional support, must work together to better assess risks and allocate resources - both monetary and human, he said. Targeted hiring and strategic personnel moves should help the center close program personnel gaps, ensuring that programs have the right people with the right skills to meet specific needs.
He also talked about "integratable" systems based on open, or service-oriented architectures, which allow systems to be coupled so that certain critical information services can easily be shared. While acquirers can procure such systems, however, users have to develop the right concepts of operations.
"They need to tell us what data needs to be shared," General Bowlds said.
Collaboration is key to being agile enough to meet urgent needs, he noted. To be effective, industry, academia and government developers need to interact with users to seek out "quick-turn" capabilities for high-priority needs.
Various facilities and activities contribute to the end-to-end testing the general called for. He listed the Capabilities Integration Environment (CIE) at Gunter AFB, Ala., the C4ISR Enterprise Integration Facility at Hanscom and the Battlespace Evaluation Assessment Space Situational Awareness Test bed at Kirtland AFB, N.M., as part of that comprehensive network.
He said the CIE plays a particularly important role in allowing the Air Force to "wring things out before we plug them into the network." He also noted that having ESC Chief Technology Officer Dr. Tim Rudolph designated as the approval authority for Command and Control Platform Information Technology should help speed the accreditation process.
"One of the important things this new process does is put more emphasis on doing more of the certification activity up front in the process," he said. "This makes sense when you think about it; you don't wait until after you've built an aircraft to find out if it's airworthy."
General Bowlds also introduced the concept of "composability." The idea, he said, is that components can be assembled in various configurations to meet various needs.
The general concluded by reiterating that speed will determine which programs thrive. Programs that can't keep up will probably be terminated, he warned.
"Execute quickly, efficiently and get off the radar," General Bowlds said. "The slow antelope in the herd will get slaughtered."
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Weldon, Texas
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Weldon is an unincorporated community in Houston County, Texas. The estimated population is 135.[1]
Weldon is served by the Lovelady Independent School District.
Weldon lies on Farm to Market Road 230.[2]
External Links[edit]
- The Weldon Story by Ava Bush, June, 1964.
- ^ Christopher Long: Weldon, TX from the Handbook of Texas Online. Retrieved October 28, 2012.
- ^ Texas Department of Transportation (2014) (PDF). Texas County Map Book (Map). 1:120,000. Cartography by Transportation Planning and Programming Division (2014 ed.). p. 492. http://www.dot.state.tx.us/apps-cg/grid_search/_includes/countymapbook/Pages/492.pdf. Retrieved December 1, 2014.
Coordinates: 31°01′18″N 95°34′17″W / 31.02167°N 95.57139°W
This article about a location in Houston County, Texas is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |


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The Trapper and the Marmot
Let's follow our trip in the Great North of Tours. While working, the trapper has removed its jacket. Everything looks quiet, except (the cries of wild animals far away). A light wind turns down the leaves slipping on the grassy frozen soil. But the lake remains lifeless, and the horizon is misty. Our trapper is bringing together few branches, when suddenly, a terrible hissing comes from deep in the forest. He bends himself over, then pricks up his ears, and catch sight of a small animal behind a bush. It has stocky body covered with some sticky brown hairs. The animal also has large teeth and small ears…
Beanie : Canadian Classics
Jacket : Refrigiwear
Jeans : Kuyichi
Boots : Sorel
Shirt : Acne
Photos : Romain Lhuissier
Retrouvez les conseils de Joe the "tire-remover" on French Truckers
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US 5619046 A Abstract The invention concerns a method of manufacturing a measuring device of the Fabry-P erot resonator type. The invention likewise concerns a measuring device manufactured by means of the method. The measuring device is particularly intended for measurement of the pressures inside engine cylinders and comprises a cavity and a first part and a second part, said two parts sandwiching the cavity between them. At least the first part, which consists of silicon, supports a spacer layer of silicon dioxide formed through thermal oxidation. The spacer layer which is partially removed through etching, is joined to the second part using the technique known as direct bonding (SDB).
Claims(10) 1. A method for manufacturing a device for measuring pressure comprising a cavity of the Fabry-P erot resonator type and a first part and a second part, said parts sandwiching said cavity between them, in which at least said first part consists of silicon and a spacer portion is arranged between the parts, and in which the pressure around the cavity is measured by directing light towards the cavity, the light returning from the cavity thereafter being detected, wherein the cavity is formed by arranging the spacer portion on at least the first part, using a method of building up molecular layers, and removing a part of the spacer portion by an etching method, and that the spacer portion is joined to the second part using "direct bonding" (Silicon Direct Bonding, SDB).
2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part is subjected to a thermal oxidation, that the silicon dioxide layer then formed is partially removed by etching, and that the direct bonding (SDB) is effected between the remaining silicon dioxide portions and the second part.
3. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part is subjected to thermal oxidation, that thereafter a portion of the silicon dioxide layer thus formed is removed by etching, that the first part provided with the silicon dioxide layer is subjected to a second thermal oxidation process in which at least one raised portion is formed in the first part, and in that the silicon dioxide layers thus formed are removed by etching and the direct bonding (SDB) is effected between said raised portion and said second part.
4. A device for measuring pressure, comprising a cavity and a first part and a second part, said parts sandwiching said cavity between them, at least said first part consisting of silicon, wherein the first part is formed with a spacer portion which is produced by means of a method of building up molecular layers and an etching method, said spacer portion being joined to the second part using "direct bonding" (Silicon Direct Bonding, SDB).
5. A measuring device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second part is the end portion of an optical fiber.
6. A measuring device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second part consists of a substance which is transparent to visible light.
7. A measuring device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second part consists of quartz, saphire or other transparent material.
8. A measuring device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second part consists of a piece of silicon which is joined to an optical fiber by means of direct bonding (SDB).
9. A measuring device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the second part is a piece that is transparent to visible light and which is joined to an optical fiber by means of direct bonding (SDB).
10. A measuring device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the second part consists of quartz or sapphire.
Description The subject invention concerns a method of manufacturing a measuring device. The invention also concerns a measuring device produced in accordance with the method. A principal application of a device in accordance with the present invention is to measure the pressure in combustion engine cylinders. To optimize the efficiency of the engine it is desirable to be able to instantaneously measure the pressure of the exhaust gases inside the cylinder compression space. It would be advantageous to incorporate a device designed for this purpose in the existing ignition and fuel injection system of the vehicle which, with the aid of electronic means of suitable configuration, could result in more carefully controlled fuel injection conditions and a more advantageous combustion process. Consequently, it would be possible to achieve a more optimized ignition point and to obtain more complete fuel combustion with consequential improvement of the engine efficiency. High pressures and temperatures and serious electrical disturbances are characteristic of the particularly extreme environmental conditions to which a pressure sensor that is positioned in the cylinder is exposed. In addition, pressure sensors of this type are to be installed in connection with the manufacturing process in a large number of vehicles produced in large series and thus be incorporated as one component of the electric system of the vehicle. A pressure sensor of this kind therefore must meet severe requirements with respect to accuracy, reliability and, not the least, low manufacturing costs and satisfactory reproducibility in the manufacturing process. In view of the environmental conditions in the cylinder it is difficult to effect pressure measurements based on direct conversion to electrical quantities. A solution based on fiber optics according to which the sensor body consists mainly of silicon and the conversion of the signal is from pressure to a mechanical quantity which in turn is converted into an optical quantity transported by an optical fiber, would provide the advantages required to solve the measuring problem. However, to date no sensors exist that are able to withstand the environmental conditions at a cost that is acceptable from a production-economical point of view. Relevant devices in this aspect are pressure sensors based on the principle that the surrounding pressure affects the thickness of a cavity formed in the sensor and wherein optical interference is generated inside the cavity when incident light hits the cavity via an optical fiber. The method is based on the use of a resonator of the kind known as a Fabry-P erot resonator. A fiber-optical device of this nature for pressure measurements is previously known from the German Patent Specification DE 3611852. This prior-art device includes a Fabry-P erot resonator which is positioned at the end of an optical fiber. An optical signal supplied to the fiber is reflected by the Fabry-P erot resonator at an intensity that is dependent on the pressure affecting the resonator. However, the device in accordance with this German publication is intended primarily for measuring the blood pressure in the human body, and as such it is devised for comparatively low pressures, in the range of 1 bar, and for temperatures in the range of 20�-40� C., i.e. close to room temperatures. The pressure to be measured inside a combustion engine cylinder, on the other hand, may amount to 200 bars at normal operational temperatures of 250� C. In addition to the requirements for productional efficiency as mentioned above, a sensor of this kind therefore has to meet high demands also as regards material, manufacturing technique and reliability, and the sensor disclosed in DE 3611852 fails to do so. Another disadvantage inherent in the device mentioned above concerns the nature of the attachment of the optical fiber included therein to the sensor body. The sensor body is said to be Joined to the fibre by means of clamping. This securement method as well as more permanent mounting methods, such as glueing, are not, however, sufficiently strong or resistant to pressure and heat to fulfill the demands that devices intended for applications of the kind contemplated by the present invention must meet. In addition, the layer of glue that results from glueing an optical fiber to the sensor body will disturb the path of the light rays into and out of the sensor body. The subject invention thus is concerned with a method of manufacturing a device for measuring the pressures in an environment wherein high pressures and temperatures prevail as also severe electrical disturbances, which device in addition may be manufactured and installed at low costs. These aims are achieved by means of a method and a device in accordance with the invention. The mounting or securement problem is solved in accordance with the subject invention by a method known as "Silicon Direct Bonding", in the following referred to as SDB. This method, which is known since 1986 (Lasky, Applied Physics Letters Vol. 48, p. 78, 1986) makes it possible to bond silicon to silicon, silicon to silicon dioxide and silicon dioxide to silicon dioxide. The bonding process proper is effected by contacting two polished surfaces of any of the material combinations mentioned, at a temperature of 700�-1000� C. (Bengtsson and Engstr om, Journal of Applied Physics, Vol. 66, p. 1231, 1989 and Journal of Electrochemical Society, 137, p. 2297, 1990). The bond thus produced has a tensile strength corresponding to the strength of the bonding materials as such, and they are extremely temperature resistant. The invention allows the fibre-optical pressure sensor to be manufactured in a mechanical manufacturing process. Because the sensor body is made from silicon the highly developed silicon technology used in the manufacture of printed circuits is available for efficient batch production of sensor bodies. Additional characteristics and specific features will appear from the dependent claims and the following detailed description of various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein FIG. 1 illustrates the design of a Fabry-P erot resonator, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a pressure sensor in accordance with the subject invention, FIG. 3 shows examples of results obtained from measurements effected with the aid of a device in accordance with the invention, FIGS. 4A-4B and 5A-5B are alternative embodiments of the invention, whereas FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a method of manufacturing the inventive object, FIG. 7 illustrates schematically a pressure measuring system, and FIG. 8 illustrates a possible mounting method of a measuring device in an engine cylinder. FIG. 1 shows the operational principle, known per se, of a Fabry-P erot resonator. Light incident on the cavity 1 is reflected by both the interior surfaces thereof. Resonance is generated when the width, d, of the cavity is equal to a number of half wave-lengths of the incident light (d-(λ/2)�n, wherein n=0, 1, 2, . . . ). In this case no light is reflected back from the cavity 1. By varying d, the intensity of the reflected light thus passes through a number of maximum and minimum values, depending on the relationship between the width d and the wavelength of the light. This principle may be used for pressure measurement purposes, because d can be assumed to be dependent on the pressure, p, around the cavity 1. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a preferred embodiment of the subject invention. Two different pieces of silicon 2 and 3 are bonded together by means of a layer 4 of silicon dioxide arranged in a pattern. The sensor element thus produced is in turned joined to the end of an optical fiber 5 using the SDB method. Because one, 2, of the silicon pieces is coated with the silicon over only a limited portion of its area, a cavity 6 is formed intermediate the silicon pieces 2 and 3 after bonding, the width, d, of which is determined by the thickness of the silicon dioxide coating 4. There is nothing to prevent application of the silicon dioxide coating 4 to the other silicon piece 3 too, or application of patterned silicon dioxide to both silicon pieces 2, 3. The device is shown in FIG. 2A prior to the joining together whereas FIG. 2B shows the end result, after the joining process. The width, d, of the cavity is critical and must be made to an accuracy of fractions of the light wavelength λ of the interfering light if reproducible sensor bodies are to be obtained in a production process. For this reason the silicon dioxide layer 4 preferably is obtained through thermal oxidation. This process is well-known within the semiconductor technology and lends itself to sufficiently precise prediction of the thickness of the silicon dioxide layer 4. Also the method of arranging oxide in a pattern on a silicon surface is a routine practice within the semiconductor technology and can be effected with extreme accuracy as regards the pattern measures. Bonding using the SDB technique is effected in an oven at a temperature around 1000� C. The pressure sensitivity is determined by the thickness, b, of one, 2, of the silicon pieces. This thickness b can be carefully determined through the well-established etching methods used within the semiconductor technology. FIG. 3 shows a measuring result obtained from a sensor manufactured in accordance with FIGS. 2A and 2B. In this case, the wavelength A of the light was approximately 1.4 μm and the width of the cavity 6 of the same magnitude. A pressure of p=0 therefore gives a minimum value of the light signal reflected inside the fibre. A pressure of approximately p=4.5 bar gives a maximum value and resonance occurs again at 9 bar when the width of the cavity 6 is reduced by half. A sensor of this kind probably is most suitable for use within the pressure range of 0-4 bars. The pressure range can be altered easily by modifying the thickness b of the silicon piece 2. The pressure sensor in accordance with FIGS. 2A and 2B suffers from the drawback that it must be possible to transmit through the silicon piece 3 the light which is used inside the resonator formed by the cavity 6. This imposes a restriction as regards the useful wavelength range of the light. Its photon energy must be smaller than the band gap of silicon in order to allow transmission of the light. In other words, only light wavelengths exceeding 1.1 μm may be used. However, commercially available light sources and detectors for these wavelength ranges are comparatively expensive. One way of avoiding this problem is to use a silicon piece 3 having a thickness of the same dimensions as the penetration depth of the light that is used. For a wavelength of 0.9 μm of the light, which corresponds to the wavelength of commercial light-emitting diodes of gallium arsenide, the penetration depth is about 10 μm. To produce a silicon body 3 having a thickness of this magnitude is quite possible using available etching technique. In accordance with another embodiment the problem is solved in that the silicon piece 3 is replaced by a material which is transparent to light of shorter wavelengths and which lends itself to bonding with silicon dioxide using the SDB technique. Examples of materials of this kind is quartz or saphire. Yet another solution is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B according to which the silicon body 2 with the layer of silicon dioxide 4 applied thereon is joined directly to the optical fiber 5 by means of the SDB bonding technique. In this case, the cavity 6 is formed between the surface of the optical fiber 5 and the inner face of the silicon piece 2, and consequently it is accessible to light of arbitrary wavelength. Additional embodiments are possible according to which another material than thermal silicon dioxide is used as the layer determining the width d. Silicon dioxide applied through a chemical method (the method known as Chemical Vapor Deposition, CVD), silicon nitride, polycrystalline or amorphous silicon are other examples. All these materials are well known from the semiconductor technology. As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B it is possible, in accordance with another embodiment, to obtain a controlled width a of the cavity 6 by forming a cavity directly in the mass of the silicon piece 7. In this case the silicon piece 7 is joined directly to the optical fiber 5 without any intermediate layer (cf. layer 4 in FIGS. 2 and 4). In accordance with this embodiment, the cavity 6 is produced in the manner appearing from FIGS. 6A-6C. A silicon disc 8 is oxidized to produce a comparatively thick layer of silicon dioxide over the entire disc surface. An opening 10 is etched in the silicon dioxide using standard semiconductor technology, as shown in FIG. 6A. The disc is thereafter subjected to additional thermal ozidation. A new silicon dioxide layer 11 then grows inside the opening 10 (FIG. 6B). Upon thermal oxidation of the silicon the interface between the silicon dioxide and the silicon is formed at a distance from the original silicon surface that corresponds approximately to half the thickness of the silicon dioxide layer 11. Because the silicon dioxide layer 9 acts as a mask preventing oxidation of the rest of the silicon surface the interface silicon dioxide/silicon will be positioned at a deeper level in the opening 10 than the interface silicon dioxide/silicon in the rest of the disc. By subsequently etching the disc with an etching agent that acts selectively and etches only oxides (such as HF) a pure silicon surface is obtained, including a pit 12 the depth of which is determined by the thickness of the oxide grown in the opening 11 (FIG. 6C). In this manner a raised portion 13 is formed around the pit 12. The depth of the pit 12 may be determined very precisely in advance because it is possible to predict with great accuracy the thickness of the silicon dioxide layer and it is used in the same manner as the cavity 6 in the embodiment in accordance with FIGS. 5A and 5B. In accordance with yet another embodiment a piece of silicon 7 (according to FIGS. 5A and 5B) may be bonded to a silicon piece 3, whereupon the sensor body thus produced is joined to the end of the optical fibre 5. FIG. 7 illustrates schematically a pressure measuring system including one of the sensor elements 18 described in the aforegoing. The system comprises a source of light in the form of a light-emitting diode 14 which is connected to a source of current 15. The light-emitting diode is connected to one branch 16 of a branched optical fiber 17. The light from the diode 14 is transmitted through the fibre to the sensor element 18 in the manner described above, and is re-transmitted back through the fiber 17. A portion of the returning light enters the fiber branch 19 which is connected to a photo-sensitive member 20, which member may be a photodiode or a phototransistor. The member 20 detects the modulated light signal and converts it into an electric signal which is amplified by amplifier 21 and provides an electric signal Uout on the amplifier output. Since the intensity of the return light inside the fibre depends on the pressure, p, that is applied to the sensor element 18, the electrical signal Uout from the amplifier is a measure of the pressure p. Some light is not reflected but is modulated by the sensor element 18. As appears from FIG. 3, the modulated part of the light intensity amounts at least to about 40% of the total light, for which reason detection of any variation of the pressure p can be conveniently made. No means are included in the pressure measuring system 13 to compensate for variations of intensity arising as a result of bends in the fiber 17. However, wherever necessary such compensating measure could be effected, using any prior-art method, such as the one disclosed in the Swedish Published Specification SE 431 259, and be installed in the measuring system 13. Obviously, the measurement amplifier may be connected to, alternatively integrated with, the existing ignition and/or fuelling systems of the vehicle, thus allowing the pressure signal from the device in accordance with the invention to be included as one of the parameters of those systems. FIG. 8 illustrates the upper part of a combustion engine 23 which in the conventional manner comprises a piston 24, spark plugs 25 and valves 26, 27. The engine 23 may be equipped with an electronic fuel-injection system. The sensor element 18 is positioned adjacent the combustion chamber 28 of the engine 23 in such a manner that the outer edge of the sensor element 18 will be essentially level with the wall 29 of the combustion chamber 28. For this purpose, the sensor element 18 and the optical fiber 5 associated therewith are positioned in a through-hole by means of a nipple bolt 30 which is mounted in the cylinder wall 29. The sensor element 18 may be built to very reduced dimensions, making it possible to mount it inside channels in or adjacent other cylinder lead-in elements, such as spark plugs and valves. The sensor element in accordance with the invention could comprise more than one cavity, for instance when there is a need for measuring more than one area in the device. Patent Citations
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RF Product Modifications May Be Eligible for an FCC Permissive Change
by admin on Jan.26, 2015, under Wireless
When an RF product is revised due to obsolete parts, cost cutting, or product improvements, how does the engineer know what the FCC requirements are for the altered product? Will it require a new FCC filing and ID number or will a Permissive Change be allowed?
To allow products to be modified without requiring a new filing, the FCC has defined three Permissive Change options listed in Title 47 Part 2.1043, KDB 178919 D01 Permissive Change Policy v05r04.
Class I Permissive Change
This class includes modifications which do not degrade the characteristics accepted by the FCC when certification is granted. No filing with the Commission is required for a Class I Change.
Class II Permissive Change
This class includes modifications which degrade the performance characteristics as reported to the FCC at initial certification. In this case, the grantee must supply the Commission with results of tests of characteristics affected by the change.
Class III Permissive Change
This class includes software modifications of a software-defined radio transmitter that change the frequency range, modulation type or maximum output power (either radiated or conducted) outside the parameters previously approved.
In this case, the grantee must supply the FCC with a description of the changes and test results showing that the equipment complies with applicable rules with the new software loaded, including compliance with applicable RF exposure requirements.
Class III changes are permitted only for equipment on which no Class II changes have been made from the originally approved device.
For any of these changes, modified equipment cannot be marketed under the existing grant of certification prior to acknowledgment by the Commission that the change is acceptable.
In summary, changes to a modular radio or product will result in either a Permissive Change or a new FCC filing and ID number. The degree of change will determine both the process and the amount of supporting data required to illustrate compliance.
With few exceptions, a new FCC ID and a new equipment authorization application will be required in the event of changes to the basic frequency (including clock and data rates), frequency multiplication stages, basic modulator circuit, or maximum power or field strength ratings.
How to Request FCC Confidentiality for Proprietary Product Information
by admin on Dec.08, 2014, under Wireless
On October 16, 2014 the FCC published 726920 D01 Confidentiality Request Procedures, a new document that details the steps required to ensure proprietary information about your device will be held confidential.
To be granted confidentiality, your application must include a reference to 0.457(d) and 0.459 of the FCC Rules, the reason why the information should be held from the public, specific confidential information by exhibit type, name, and description, an indication if the information is a "trade secret," a signature, and the type of confidentiality requested. Confidentiality Letters must specifically reference the documents you wish to withhold from the public.
The two types of confidentiality are long term and short term.
Under long term confidentiality, the following exhibits are held private without filing a request:
- Software defined radio, cognitive radio attachments submitted into the SDR software, security info exhibit type
- Scanning receiver information included in one of the exhibits noted as "commonly held confidential" and scanning receiver internal photos
Under long term confidentiality, the following exhibits can be held private upon request:
- Schematics
- Block diagrams
- Operational descriptions
- Parts list/tune up info
Under short term confidentiality, exhibits held private are the same as long term confidentiality, plus:
- External photos
- Test set up photos
- Internal photos
- User manuals
Short term confidentiality can only last up to 180 days. If you request short term confidentiality but market your device before the 180 day period is over, you must notify your Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) so your confidentiality request can be removed.
If you are seeking confidentiality for an exhibit not listed above, you are able to petition the FCC and all approvals are made on a case-by-case basis.
MET Labs is a leading provider of FCC Testing and FCC Certification. Contact us today for a free fast-response quotation.
Read about how Some Electronic Devices Are Exempt from FCC EMC Testing.
New EMC Directive 2014/30/EU Will Soon Replace 2004/108/EU
by admin on Dec.02, 2014, under EMC, Europe, Product Safety, Wireless
The European Union EMC Directive 2004/108/EU has been revised to the new Directive 2014/30/EU. After April 2016, the new directive will be required for all applicable electrical products being sold in the European Union.
Requirements listed in Annex I of the directive remain the same. But 4 key changes have been made:
- The directive now applies to distributers and importers, not just manufacturers
- Additional information is required in the technical file
- DoCs now need to be multilingual
- Notified Body requirements have been updated
In order to maintain EMC compliance, a few steps can be taken. First, be sure that all harmonized standards listed on the reports are current. Review your technical file and ensure that all operators' information and technical instructions comply with Article 18. Your updated DoC should reference 2014/30/EU and clearly identify the product you wish to sell.
Selling electrical products in the EU? MET Labs is a leading 3rd party laboratory for testing to support CE marking. Contact us for a quote.
Also, read about the new Radio Equipment Directive for CE marking radio equipment.
FCC Part 15 DFS Testing Requirements Change for U-NII Devices
by admin on Aug.11, 2014, under EMC, Wireless
To accommodate changes in the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Docket 13-49, the Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) test procedure document KDB 905462 D02 UNII DFS Compliance Procedures New Rules has been issued.
The document describes the compliance measurement procedures for performing DFS tests under FCC Part 15 Subpart E Rules required for U-NII (Unlicensed –National Information Infrastructure) equipment that operates in the frequency bands 5250-5350 MHz and/or 5470-5725 MHz.
A U-NII network will employ a DFS function to detect signals from radar systems and to avoid co-channel operation with these systems.
Section 6 provides the parameters for required test waveforms, minimum percentage of successful detections, and the minimum number of trials that must be used for determining DFS conformance.
One of the new requirements is for devices to detect a new radar waveform for DFS testing. Historically, the FCC has required devices to detect 5 radar types. The new rules require detection of a 6th radar type which they designated as Type 1. A previous waveform which was designated as Type 1 is now called Type 0. See the accompanying Table 5.
These rules became effective on June 2, 2014. FCC has established a transition period:
- New devices will be permitted to be approved until June 1, 2015 under the old rules
- Starting June 2, 2016, all devices approved partially or completely under the old rules cannot be marketed, and permissive changes will not be permitted for devices approved under the old rules, unless they meet the requirements of the new rules
MET Labs has the capability to generate the new radar type using Agilent hardware coupled with custom software. Get tested to the latest DFS requirements on new products or update an existing product with a Class II Permissive Change. Get a free quote now.
FCC Issues Guidance on New E-Labeling
by admin on Jul.29, 2014, under EMC, Wireless
On July 11, 2014, the FCC's Office of Engineering & Technology (OET) released new guidance giving some consumer electronics manufacturers more flexibility in digitally labeling (e-labeling) their products.
The guidance advises that all devices with an integral (non-removable) screen can now display that label digitally on that screen, and up to three steps deep into the device menu. The user manual must include information on accessing that FCC info, or it can be on the equipment's Web site.
Removable labels with the FCC info must still be on the product or its packaging when it is shipped and sold.
Formerly, the FCC required equipment that requires FCC certification to have a fixed nameplate or etched label (see the iPhone hieroglyph) listing its FCC ID and any other requirements of operation.
The benefits of e-labeling include:
- Cost savings, especially as devices become smaller
- The potential to provide more information, like recycling or trade-in opportunities
- The ability to update information remotely to address any inaccuracies
The FCC had already permitted e-labeling for a small subset of devices. In 2001, the Commission's rules authorizing software defined radios (SDR) permitted the voluntary use of e-labeling by device manufacturers.
MET Labs is a leading provider of FCC testing and FCC certification for electronic device electromagnetic compatibility.
Meet with MET at Super Mobility Week, North America's largest forum for mobile innovation, powered by CTIA.
Some Electronic Devices Are Exempt from FCC EMC Testing
by admin on Jul.22, 2014, under EMC, Wireless
Most electronic devices destined for sale in the U.S. fall under Part 15 (CFR 47) of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules for limits to the unintentional and intentional emission of radiation. However, there are some exemptions that you may be able to take advantage of, depending on the nature of your product. You can find the bulk of this information in Section 15.103 of the rules.
The FCC says it is "strongly recommended" that you still attempt to comply with the rules, regardless of your product type. They have the power to halt sales of your device if the device has been found to cause harmful interference, so proceed with caution.
Here is a simplified description of product types that are FCC exempt from digital emissions testing:
- A digital device utilized exclusively in any transportation vehicle including motor vehicles and aircraft. Note: wireless devices are subject to other FCC rules.
- A digital device used exclusively as an electronic control or power system utilized by a public utility or in an industrial plant.
- A digital device used exclusively as industrial, commercial, or medical test equipment.
- A digital device utilized exclusively in an appliance, e.g., microwave oven, dishwasher, clothes dryer, air conditioner, etc.
- Specialized medical digital devices (generally used under the supervision of a licensed health care practitioner) whether used in a patient's home or a health care facility.
- Digital devices that have a power consumption not exceeding 6 nW.
- Joystick controllers or similar devices, such as a mouse, used with digital devices but which contain only non-digital circuitry or a simple circuit to convert the signal to the format required (e.g., an integrated circuit for analog to digital conversion).
- Digital devices in which both the highest frequency generated and the highest frequency used are less than 1.705 MHz and which do not operate from the AC power lines. Digital devices that include battery eliminators, AC adaptors or battery chargers which permit operation while charging or that connect to the AC power lines indirectly do not fall under this exemption.
Although not noted in section 15.103, equipment authorization is also not required for:
- Personal use home-built devices (not kit-constructed) that are assembled in quantities of five or less
- Low-frequency devices that don't generate timing signals or pulses at a rate in excess of 9,000 pulses (cycles) per second (i.e., 9 kHz)
Note that equipment is not exempt unless all of the devices in the equipment meet the criteria for exemption. For example, if you have a specialized medical digital device with a wireless transmitter, the wireless transmitter still has to be tested.
Please confirm with MET Labs whether you are indeed exempt as there are some caveats to this information.
And, of course, FCC-exempt devices might be required to undergo other types of testing, like product safety certification for U.S. OSHA compliance or EMC testing for CE marking in Europe. Contact MET for a full evaluation of your product line and its intended markets.
Radio Equipment Directive (RED) Replacing R&TTE Directive, is Published in OJ
by admin on Jun.05, 2014, under EMC, Wireless
The Radio Equipment Directive (RED) – 2014/53/EU – has been published in the Official Journal. This Directive is replacing the RTTE Directive (1999/5/EC).
You can read more about the changes in the new RED in a previous Compliance Today post.
May 22, 2014 – Publication in OJ
June 12, 2014 – Entry in force of RED
June 12, 2016 – Member states transposition period end date
June 12, 2016 – RTTE Directive 1999/5/EC repeal date
June 13, 2016 – Member states must apply the new RE Directive by this date
June 13, 2017 – Products compliant with the old Directive market placement end date
MET Labs is a leading provider of EMC and Wireless Testing services. Contact us today to test your radio equipment devices for Europe or any other major global market.
Wireless & Radio Regulations Changing for FCC & RE Directive
by admin on Apr.16, 2014, under Europe, Wireless
At last week's TCB Council Workshop in Baltimore, TCBs – including MET Labs – were given an update on upcoming wireless regulatory and compliance changes. Here are the most notable.
The FCC released a First Report and Order (ET Docket No. 13-49) on April 1, 2014 allowing devices in the U-NII-1 band to operate with higher power. The R&O also allows this band to be used outdoors, whereas this has only been an indoor band previously. Some of the key points in the First R&O are:
- Devices operating in the U-NII-1 band will be allowed 30 dBm (1 W) conducted power, a PSD of 17 dBm/MHz and an allowance of a 6 dBi antenna. However, the maximum EIRP above 30 degrees elevation is limited to 21 dBm.
- The upper edge of the U-UNII-3 band has been extended by 25 MHz. Therefore, the band is now 5.725 – 5.850 GHz which is in line with the 15.247 DTS band. Both rule parts will be consolidated.
- Bin1 radar waveform will be updated to better account for actual Terminal Doppler Weather Radar (TDWR) waveforms.
For equipment that is already certified, a Class II Permissive Change may be performed to update the device to the new rules. A Class II PC is performed when there are changes to the radio, such as addition of new antenna or if a rule change allows for additional provisions.
The new rules will take effect 30 days after being published in the Federal Register. The publish date is expected soon.
The FCC has also updated the TCB Exclusion list. The exclusion list is now "empty." Therefore, TCBs can now grant almost all applications, including equipment operating in the DFS bands and UWB equipment. However, TCBs will have to follow a Permit But Ask (PBA) procedure with the FCC to grant these devices. DFS equipment will still be independently tested by the FCC as before. But this is still expected to reduce the time to market for manufacturers.
The R&TTE Directive is getting a face lift. It will now be called simply the Radio Equipment (RE) Directive. Telecommunications equipment will be moved over to the EMC Directive. The RE Directive will be limited to wireless RF transmitter devices and receivers. The use of the exclamation mark (i.e. !) and the NB number (if applicable) will not be required adjacent to the CE mark.
EN 300 328 v1.8.1 will become effective end of the year and any new radio device placed on or after this date will need to meet the new standard. The previous version of the standard will cease to give presumption of conformity with the requirements for Article 3(2) of the Radio Equipment Directive.
Want to know how these changes affect your products? Contact us to request a quick-response quote or schedule a free Lunchtime Review.
New Radio Equipment Directive Adopted by EU, Awaits Publication in OJ
by admin on Mar.31, 2014, under EMC, Europe, Wireless
The new Radio Equipment Directive (RED) was adopted by the Members of the EU Parliament (MEPs) on March 13, 2014 by 550 votes to 12. It is now awaiting approval by the EU Council and then publication in the Official Journal (OJ) of the European Union. Member states will have two years to transpose the rules into their national laws and manufacturers will have an additional year to comply.
The RED will take the place of the R&TTE Directive. You can read more about this change in a previous post. The draft directive lays down harmonized rules for placing radio equipment, including cellular telephones, car-door openers and modems, on the market. The new rules aim to keep pace with the growing number and variety of radio equipment devices and ensure that they do not interfere with each other or human health.
On the same day as the vote, MEPs called for a renewed effort to develop a common charger for certain categories of radio equipment, in particular mobile phones, because it would simplify their use and reduce waste and costs.
MEPs also backed provisions in the directive that would give the authorities additional market surveillance tools to detect radio equipment products that fail to comply with the new safety rules. After an evaluation, the European Commission will identify those categories of equipment which will need to be registered before they can be put on the market. A similar database already operates in the U.S.
The next meetings of the RTTE Compliance Association (CA) and the European Union Association of Notified Bodies (EUANB) will take place May 19-20, 2014 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The details of the new RED will be the main subject of the meeting.
MET Labs will keep you updated on Compliance Today as new developments take place. In the meantime, contact us today to test your radio equipment devices for Europe or any other major global market.
FCC Equipment Enforcement Focuses on HAC, U-NII & Digital Devices
by admin on Feb.06, 2014, under Wireless
The FCC took 20 enforcement actions in 2013 against RF equipment manufacturers and vendors for violations of the FCC's marketing rules and technical standards. These actions include enforcement of Rule Parts 2, 15, 18, 22, 24, 27, 90, and 95. Fish & Richardson P.C. summarizes FCC Equipment Manufacturer Violations from 2006-2013 here.
Four of the six largest violations (with Consent Decrees ranging from $100,000 to $280,000) involved the FCC's hearing aid compatibility (HAC) rules. The HAC rules require handset manufacturers to report annually on their HAC compliance status, so manufacturers should expect that the FCC will continue to pursue HAC violations.
The FCC also continued its focus on Part 15 U-NII devices and digital devices. Violations involving equipment in the music industry, such as amplifiers and mixers, led to some of the year's largest Consent Decree payments.
Effective September 13, 2013, the FCC raised the maximum penalty for most equipment violations from $112,500 to $122,500 per single violation.
The bottom line is that manufacturers and importers need to be careful about FCC compliance. Manufacturers with compliance issues can face delayed equipment approvals, contract disputes and lost sales opportunities, and even competitor or consumer lawsuits.
We can help keep you out of trouble. MET has tested and/or certified thousands of products for FCC compliance over the last decade. Get a quote now.