text:
An apparatus, method, and system for providing control, status, and security functions in a peripheral switch for connecting one or more computers to one or more user stations. Information from a remote terminal is transferred on a network in a packet where the switch information in the packet uses a standardized management protocol. When the packet is received by a network interface card in the peripheral switch the switch information is translated to a proprietary protocol. The peripheral switch then responds to the switch information by performing a control function, providing status information to the remote terminal, or by changing security information. In addition to the transfer of peripheral information from the remote terminal, the peripheral switch is capable of transferring switch information from one of the user stations.
1. In a computer switching system having a peripheral switch for connecting one or more computers to one or more user stations, a method of transferring switch information including at least one of control information, status information, security information and data to the peripheral switch from a remote terminal different from the user stations and at a remote site while the peripheral switch simultaneously links a selected one of the computers to a selected one of the user stations, the method comprising:
establishing a communication path between the selected computer and the selected user station using at least one KVM switch port of the peripheral switch;
generating, at the remote terminal, a remote information signal having switch information;
packetizing the remote information signal thereby creating a network packet;
transmitting the network packet to a switch service port of the peripheral switch via a network, the switch service port being different from the KVM switch port of the peripheral switch and being associated with communication of said control information, status information, security information, or data to the peripheral switch for operational use by the peripheral switch;
receiving the network packet at the peripheral switch;
translating the network packet to a proprietary information signal identifying the switch information; and
responding to the proprietary information signal identifying the switch information.
2. The method of
translating the network packet to a protocol packet;
translating the protocol packet to an application packet; and
translating the application packet to a proprietary information signal having the switch information.
3. The method of
4. The method of
5. A computer switching system, comprising:
a peripheral switch for connecting one or more computers to one or more user stations, the switch including at least one first port for completing a transmission path between a selected computer and a selected user station and a second port for receiving switch information for operational use by the peripheral switch;
a network interface unit for translating a network packet from a remote terminal different from the user station to a proprietary switch signal containing the switch information, the network interface unit comprising:
a network interface circuit for receiving from the second port the network packet and converting the network packet to a processor readable network packet; and
a microprocessor programmed to parse the readable network packet by converting the network packet to a protocol packet, then converting the protocol packet to a proprietary packet protocol and upon verifying authorization responding to the switch information contained in the network packet.
6. The network interface unit of
a communication bus interface for coupling the switch information to a communication bus in the peripheral switch.
7. The network interface unit of
a video interface circuit for converting serial video to analog video and coupling the analog video to a video bus.
8. The network interface unit of
9. The network interface unit of
10. A KVM switch, comprising:
KVM switching circuitry for establishing communication links between selected computers and selected workstations, and internally communicating via a proprietary data protocol;
a network interface circuit different from the KVM switching circuitry and having a first data interface communicating with the KVM switching circuitry in accordance with the proprietary data protocol and a second data interface coupled to a network external to the KVM switch and communicating in accordance with a standard network protocol.
11. A KVM switch as in
the KVM switching circuitry and the network interface circuit are contained in the common housing.
12. A KVM switch as in
13. A KVM switch as in
the first data interface includes a back plane interface circuit coupled between the network interface circuit and the back plane; and
the KVM switching circuitry further includes another back plane interface circuit coupled between the KVM switching circuitry and the back plane.
14. A KVM switch as in
the KVM switching circuitry includes a set of computer interface cards communicating with corresponding ones of a plurality of computers, and at least one user peripherals card communicating with external computer peripherals equipment; and
the network interface circuit includes a network card having the first and second data interfaces.
15. A KVM switch as in
the computer interface cards, user peripherals card and network card all communicate with each other on the data bus in the proprietary data protocol.
16. A KVM switch as in
17. A KVM switch as in
18. A KVM switch as in
19. A KVM switch as in
20. A KVM switch as in
21. A KVM switch as in
22. A KVM switch linking a set of computer peripherals to a selected one of a plurality of computers, including:
a data bus employing a data protocol proprietary to the KVM switch;
a computer interface circuit connected to a selector circuit and establishing a communication link between the selected one of the plurality of computers and the data bus;
a computer peripherals interface circuit connected to the set of computer peripherals to establish a communication link between the set of computer peripherals and the data bus; and
a network interface circuit, unique to both the computer interface circuit and the computer peripherals interface circuit connected to a standard network to establish a communication link between the standard network and the data bus including a converter to receive data from the standard network in a standard network protocol and modify it into the data protocol proprietary to the KVM switch for delivery to the data bus.
23. A KVM switch as in
24. A switch, comprising:
a data bus;
a video bus;
a user data input port receiving computer peripheral equipment data and putting the peripheral equipment data and putting the peripheral equipment data o the data bus;
a user video output port delivering video data from the video bus;
a computer selector coupled to a plurality of computers and establishing a communication path to a selected one of the computers to receive therefrom the video data;
a computer data output port receiving the peripheral equipment data from the data bus and delivering it to the computer selector for delivery to the selected one of the computers;
a computer video input port delivering the video data from the selected one of the computers for delivery to the video bus; and
bidirectional network port, unique to the user data input port, user video output port, computer data output port and computer video input port, for linking the video data and the peripheral equipment data on the data bus to an external network.
25. A switch as in
26. A switch as in
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/097,804, filed Aug. 25, 1998, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in this application.
This application relates to a switching system for selectively coupling one or more user stations to one of a plurality of computers. Each user station has at least one peripheral, where the peripherals include a keyboard, video display, and a mouse.
A user typically communicates with a personal computer via peripherals that serve as computer-user interfaces. Such peripherals may include a keyboard, a video display and a mouse. Typically, standard cables connecting each peripheral to the computer are about four feet long and the cables are used to couple one set of peripherals to one computer.
In some computer applications it is desirable to connect one or more user stations having associated peripherals to one or more computers. It is also desirable at times to do so when the user stations and computers are at different locations. For example, users increasingly desire to retrieve information from several computers at other relatively distant locations via a peripheral switch, such as a Cybex Autoboot Commander 4XP. In such a case, the user could remain at one location and cause the peripheral switch to selectively attach up to 3,000 different computers by configuring several Commander 4XPs and using the proprietary protocol of the peripheral switch. It is also possible using peripheral switches to selectively connect several user stations to a plurality of computers. In some of the peripheral switches, because of bandwidth limitations, not all users can operate simultaneously with computers coupled to the peripheral switch.
A peripheral switch typically responds to control information, provides status information, provides some type of security process, and passes data between user stations and computers. Switch information is typically classified as control information, status information, security information, and data.
The arrangement of computers, a peripheral switch, and user stations is typically referred to as a computer switching system. In many computer switching systems the peripherals at each user station comprise a keyboard, a video monitor, and a mouse. Such a grouping is sometimes referred to as a KVM station. The peripheral switch may be referred to as a KVM switch with the just described peripheral limitation.
Typically a computer switching system has a system administrator that has the ability to control the peripheral switch. The system administrator may send control information to the peripheral switch limiting activities of a selected user or user station. Further the system administrator can check the switch status by requesting status information from the peripheral switch. In addition, the system administrator may activate the security system to allow only authorized users to access the peripheral switch.
In some applications it would be desirable to interface the peripheral switch from a remote site. One option would be to provide a dedicated communication channel from the remote site to serve as a means for coupling to the peripheral switch. The dedicated communication channel could use the same proprietary language as the local peripherals and the functionality of the control, status, and security features could be controlled from the remote site. Another method of providing a remote peripheral connection could be implemented using a remote LAN to local LAN connections. The LAN arrangement has a major shortcoming. The remote device does not know the proprietary language of the peripheral switch, hence it would be necessary for the remote device to store the proprietary language of different peripheral switches.
The present invention provides a more efficient and improved method and apparatus to couple a remote site to a peripheral switch. Such a method and apparatus would provide the control, status, and security functions in a way that mirrors the local peripheral administrative functions using industry standard LAN based protocols, such as TCP/IP and at the same time avoid the cost of a dedicated channel.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a prior art peripheral switch coupling peripherals to computers;
FIG. 2 is a a block diagram illustrating a peripheral switch coupled to computers in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating in more detail the peripheral switch in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating information flow and a packet structure in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the information path of an example embodiment of the present invention.
FIG, 6 is a flow chart for control information from FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a flow chart for status information from FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a flow chart for security information from FIG. 5;
FIG. 9 is a flow chart for data flow from FIG. 5; and
FIG. 10 illustrates hardware aspects of the embodiment of FIG. 3.
FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art computer switching system having a prior art peripheral switch 100 with user interface cards 102A,B and computer interface cards 104A,B,C. The user stations 110A,B are coupled to the prior art peripheral switch over user data paths 112A,B. The user stations typically have peripherals such as a computer keyboard ("keyboard"), a computer video display ("video"), and a computer mouse ("mouse"). Computers 120A,B,C are coupled to the prior art peripheral switch over computer data paths 122A,B,C. The computers may be Intel based PCs, Macs, Sun Workstations, HP Computers, RS/6000 computers or similar devices. The user data paths may be serial and video cables typically used in computer and peripheral connections. The computer data paths may be typical or special cables. One such prior art peripheral switch, also know as a KVM switch is an AUTOBOOT COMMANDER 4XP made by Cybex Computer Products Corporation of Huntsville, Ala.
The arrangement shown in FIG. 1 may have more than the two user stations and more than three computers. In fact several 4XPs can be used for coupling up to 3,000 computers to several user stations. When the user stations, the prior art peripheral switch, and the computers are coupled together as shown in FIG. 1, the arrangement may be referred to as a KVM island. The prior art peripheral switch 100 has a communication bus and a video bus. The communication bus serves to transfer keyboard information, mouse information, status information, control information and security information and may have a data rate of around 100 kilobits per second. Video signals, requiring higher bandwidths, are transported on one or more video busses.
In prior art systems, switch information, including control information, status information and security information, is transferred between a selected user station and a prior art peripheral switch. The protocol serving to provide the information transfer is a proprietary protocol. A prior art peripheral switch from one manufacturer typically cannot communicate with a prior art switch from another manufacturer.
Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a computer switching system in accordance with the present invention. Computers 120A,B,C are coupled to user stations 110A,B over data paths and through a peripheral switch 200. Peripheral switch 200 has a network interface unit 220 as an element for coupling the peripheral switch to a network 230 which may be a local area network ("LAN") such as an ethernet. The network is coupled to the network interface card 220 using network cable 232. Although the network may be connected to numerous devices, only a remote terminal 240 is shown. The remote terminal serves as a element for remotely providing computer switch administrative functions provided by a user station in prior art computer switching systems.
In FIG. 3 there is illustrated the peripheral switch 200 having communication bus ("CBUS") 302. Computers are coupled to the communication bus via communications bus interface ("CBI") 310A, the network interface unit 220 is coupled to the CBUS via CBI 310B and user stations via CBI 310C. The CBIs serve to transmit and receive switch information and peripheral data from the CBUS using data transfer practices known to those skilled in the art. However, the protocol used in data transfers is typically a proprietary protocol. A multiplexer 312 provides several serial ports 313 for coupling to computer serial ports (not shown). A selection element 314 and user interface circuit 316 couples and directs peripheral information and data to and from the CBUS via CBI 310C. The network interface unit 220 has a processor 320, such as an Intel 386, and a network interface circuit 330 coupled together over two way processor coupling 332. The network interface circuit is coupled to the network 230 over the network coupler 232. The processor is programmed to convert switch information from the remote terminal to the proprietary protocol of the peripheral switch. Information between the network interface circuit and the network is arranged as packets as will be described in FIG. 4.
When a LAN packet 409, alternatively network packet, is received by the processor the steps in the flow chart of FIG. 4 illustrate the steps required to convert the packet to the proprietary protocol used by the peripheral switch. The LAN packet, is comprised of 5 sections. A preamble sequence 411 is used to synchronize the receiving and transmitting stations, since the communication between the network 230 and the network interface card is bursty and asynchronous. A source address 412 and destination address 413 are required to assure the network packet arrives at the node of the network. The network payload 414 contains the data for the protocol packet 419. A network CRC 415 is provided to assure error free data transfers. The protocol packet contains protocol information 431 including a network logic address, sequencing information, protocol control information and protocol status information. Those skilled in the art of network to computer connections could provide variations in the protocol packet and thus the present invention is not limited in scope to any particular protocol shown. A protocol CRC 433 is provided to assure that an error free protocol packet is transferred. The payload of the protocol packet 432 is an application packet 429. The application packet contains routing information 441, information for the peripheral switch 442, and a application packet CRC 443. The routing information directs the application packet to a translator in the processor for converting a standard management protocol, such as SNMP, to the proprietary protocol of the peripheral switch. Other screen or terminal based protocols, such as TELNET, may also serve to provide access. The information 442 has security authorization data and peripheral switch information including control information, status information, security information and data. Details of the network packet parsing process is illustrated in a flow chart 400.
After being coupled to the processor 320 via network interface circuit 330 the LAN packet 409 is received by the processor, step 410. The LAN packet is processed to determine if LAN packet is error free. If the LAN packet is erred then processing stops at the YES path of step 422. Otherwise, the packet payload is parsed from the LAN packet, step 424, to obtain a protocol packet 419. The protocol packet is processed to determine if the protocol packet is error free, step 430. If the protocol packet is erred, then the processing stops at the YES path of step 432. Otherwise, processing continues on the NO path of step 432. The protocol packet is then parsed, step 434, to obtain the application packet 431. The application packet is processed for errors, step 440. If the application packet is erred, then processing stops at the YES path of step 442. Otherwise, processing continues on the NO path of step 442. The application packet arranged as a standard management protocol, such as SNMP, is then translated to the proprietary protocol of the peripheral switch, step 444. The proprietary protocol has a section 1 containing security authorization information. The security authorization information is obtained by parsing the proprietary protocol, step 450. If the security authorization information is not valid at the NO path of step 452, then processing stops. Otherwise, the proprietary protocol information begins on the NO path of step 452 and step 500.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a flow chart illustrates the processing steps for the proprietary protocol. A second section of the proprietary protocol is separated into authorization information and switch information at step 520. The application packet is checked for errors and the processing ends if an error is detected at the YES path of step 530. If the application packet has no errors then the select step 540 determines the type of information received by the processor and directs the information for control information processing, step 600, status information processing, step 700, security information processing, or data information processing, step 900.
Control information consists of commands to a user interface card or commands routed through the user interface card to other devices within the computer switching system. Examples of commands include responding to status queries, clearing a detected Alarm, setting a threshold of a device Alarm, enabling an Alarm or disabling an Alarm. Control commands are also used to initiate downloading of program data to a system device. Control commands for action by the user interface card include commands that allow the communication bus or user data to be coupled to the remote interface via a LAN. Control commands are also used to start a processor reboot and for system maintenance function control including remote manipulation of time/date functions.
Referring now to FIG. 6, if the LAN packet from the remote terminal is authorized to initiate such a command at the YES path of step 620, then the control information is accepted and the control function initiated at step 630. If authorization is not allowed at the NO path of step 620, then processing stops.
Status information is stored in peripheral switch memory and is typically in table form. Status information is a view of the general system health and configuration. The view includes a list of devices contained within the system, device Alarm status and activity status (online, offline, and connection routings). The user makes control and security decisions based on past and current status information.
Referring now to FIG. 7, if the LAN packet from the remote terminal is authorized to request status at the YES path of step 720, then status information is retrieved at step 730. The retrieved status information is then placed in a return LAN packet at step 740, and sent back to the remote terminal. If a status request is not authorized, then processing stops at the NO path of step 720.
Security information sent to the peripheral switch is used to change authorization profiles. Security information allows limited privileges to users as determined by the system administrator. Referring now to FIG. 8, if the LAN packet from the remote terminal is authorized to update security information at the YES path of step 820, then security information is updated at step 830. If a security update is not authorized, then processing stops at the NO path of step 820.
Data may also be transferred between the peripheral switch and the remote terminal. Such data includes device serial data, mouse data, keyboard data, and digital video data. If the selection step 540 determines the application packet is data, then data is processed by the flow chart 900 of FIG. 9. Data processing starts at step 910, and authorization is verified. If data processing is not authorized at the NO path of step 920, then processing stops. Otherwise, processing continues on the YES path of step 920. Next it is determined if data translation is required, such as translating digital video to analog video. If translation is required at the YES path of step 930, then translation is performed at step 932. If no translation is required, the process continues on the NO path of step 930. If the data has been received at the RECEIVE path of step 934, then the data is directed to a selected connection at step 936. If the data is to be transmitted at the TRANSMIT path of step 934, then the data is fetched at step 938, and packetized at step 940 for transmission back to the remote terminal.
Those skilled in the art of data processing would appreciate that variation in the programs described by the flow charts of FIGS. 4-9 could provide steps to accomplish the overall functions of providing switch information and data to the peripheral switch using a network such as a LAN. The present invention allows a system administrator to communicate with the peripheral switch either from a remote terminal or from a user station. The option of having two communication means allows one means to serve as a backup for he other means.
In addition to the block diagrams and the flow charts above, hardware requirement are shown in FIG. 10. An Intel 386 microprocessor 1010 coupled to a boot chip 1012, to a flash drive 1014, and a RAM 1016 is used as the heart of processor 320. A video chip 1042 is used to convert digital video to analog video. The path taken by the analog video is directed by the video selector 1040 in response to a video control signal from the CBI 1028. The CBI is implemented using an Intel 8031. The interface circuit 1030 is comprised of electrical circuit elements typically used in a network to processor interface. The structure shown and elements used could have variations and still be within the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art would recognize the relationship and functionality of the elements shown and arranged in FIG. 10.
While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Original Image


text: Privacy Policy | Careers | Contact Us | Terms of Use | Site Map | Accessibility | Wireless Emergency Alerts | Advertising Choices | Broadband Information©2014 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. AT&T 36USC220506

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Pronunciation: Gradiška
Added on: 2012-11-27 Listened: 4 timesin: Add categories to Gradiška
Pronunciation in Bosnian [bs]
- Pronunciation by Amirbasic (Male from United States)
0 votes
Could you do it better? different accent? Pronounce Gradiška in Bosnian
Accents & languages on maps
- Random word: ačikluk
Not satisfied?
Modify word:
· Add languages
· Add categories
Report word:
Is there anything wrong with this word?
Please report it here.


text:
Wire bond pad and solder ball or controlled collapse chip connections C4 are combined on a planar surface of a an integrated circuit device to provide a die. Known good die (KGD) testing is optionally performed using wire bond connections or stress tolerant solder ball connections. The KGD testing is conducted after the integrated circuit dies are diced from a wafer. Solder ball or C4 array connections which withstand thermal stress are used to KGD test the die prior to final use of the wire bond pad connections to an end use device. Alternatively, wire bond pads are used to test the die while maintaining the solder ball or C4 array in a pristine condition for bonding to a final end product device. Both testing with the solder ball C4 array contacts and with the wire bond connections provides metallurgical connections for the KGD test. The solder ball or C4 array is connected to the wire bond pads and either connection can be used to burn-in test the die.
1. An end use device having a known good die (KGD), the KGD having solder ball array and wire bond connections;
the KGD having solder ball array connections on a planar KGD surface;
the KGD having an array of wire bond connections on the planar KGD surface;
the KGD having electrical connections between all of the solder ball array connections and the wire bond connections;
wherein the KGD is a KGD which is thermal stress tolerance tested prior to mounting the KGD on the end use device by a test device connected to the KGD by the wire bond connections or in the alternative by the solder ball connections;
wherein when either the wire bond connections are used or the solder ball connections are used for a known good die test, the other connections are connected to the end use device; and the connections used for the known good die test are not connected to the end use device or any other device, when the KGD is connected to the end use device.
2. The end use device in accordance with
3. The end use device in accordance with
4. The end use device in accordance with
5. The end use device in accordance with
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/321,565 filed May 28, 1999 which is now U.S. Pat. No. 6,221,682.
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to known good integrated circuit semiconductor devices in general, and more specifically to improved known good die (KGD) integrated circuit semiconductor devices having metallurgical test only contacts, and metallurgical contacts for providing connections to an end use device. This invention may optionally utilize wire bond technology, flip-chip controlled collapse chip connect technology, here in after C4, solder ball connections and ball grid array technologies.
2. The Prior Art
The description of known good die (KGD) has been described as the equivalent quality and reliability of the comparable packaged part. In essence a "die" is really a chip, but it is only referred to in this way when discussing physical parameters and manufacturing issues. KGD has also been defined as testing beyond conventional wafer probing. As methods for KGD assurance testing have improved, the art has and will continue to seek even better KGD devices. The testing for KGD should succeed as closely as possible to providing evaluation of die performance life span. In production of an improved KGD, not only electrical characteristics of the integrated circuit device, but also mechanical characteristics should be considered. Usually mechanical stresses on the integrated circuit device are produced by thermal stresses and may be taken into account when the integrated circuit device is being tested to determine if it qualifies as a KGD.
If an integrated circuit die, or integrated circuit device is defective prior to incorporation into an end use device such as a multi chip module (MCM) or other device, the result is expensive. The end use device will have to be either scrapped entirely, or reworked by substituting a good integrated circuit at a considerable expense. When many chips or dies are used in a multi chip module, the probability of a bad module increases dramatically as the number of dies increases. In prior art KGD testing of devices where there is no testing for electrical and thermal stress, the probability of a bad die or integrated circuit device is significant when MCM devices with a large number of dies are being made. For this reason, testing for the KGD integrated circuit should be as complete as possible and should address the problem of thermal stress and mechanical stresses as well as electrical problems. When the integrated circuit is installed in the end use device, confidence in its KGD qualification should be as high as possible.
It is known in the art to test integrated circuits having ball-type contacts (control collapse chip connection (C4)) contacts where the die is pressed or forced into a test fixture. The C4 balls are forced into contact with fixture surfaces or edges, which provide contact. Next, the die is tested electrically. However, this approach to limited KGD testing does not provide for a metallurgical bond between the die and the test fixture, and by forcing the die into a position, does not permit the die to naturally respond to conditions of thermal stress. Therefore, force holding of a die in a fixture does not provide the most complete KGD performance life span test. This testing also causes contact between a test fixture and solder balls such as C4 connections, which leaves the balls in a less than pristine condition. Contact with the test fixture can distort the balls, cause scratches, or otherwise change their characteristics which may ultimately effect solderability. The failure to maintain contacts in a pristine condition is a serious problem with this force-contact testing.
Complete burn-in testing is known in the art as a simulated life stress to assure survival of a packaged part. A certain percentage will fail early in their life. The burn-in test involves a temperature and electrical stress to eliminate the weak parts. The complete burn-in testing, however, has been done only at a packaged part level (die/complete device level), not at a KGD, wafer or other lower level prior to incorporation into an end use packaged part device. A KGD test should approach as closely as possible a complete burn-in test of the packaged part, but this is not possible because the packaging step includes untested connections to the KGD.
In prior art devices for testing dies, there has been no die developed which is capable of both KGD test procedures on either wire bond pads or solder ball array contacts, and then use of the remaining set of contacts for connection to an end use device. Therefore, the prior art does not permit manufacture of dies which can be used for either solder ball array connection or wire bond pad connection to an end use device after known good integrated circuit or KGD testing on the alternate set of contacts.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,763 to Lam shows a chip or die having solder interconnect pads which are for connection to an end use device or package. Around the periphery of the die are bond pads which are not initially connected to the interconnect pads when the die is first made. Testing is conducted by connecting the interconnect pads to the peripheral bond pads and the peripheral bond pads to test device terminals by a test by a test in a tape by a technique known as tape-automated-bonding. After testing, the leads between the peripheral bond pads and the test device are severed. Connection to an end use device is then made from the interconnect pad through a portion of the test lead with a solder ball or known flip-chip techniques.
It is known in the art to construct dies which are designed for use of a wire bond type pads to test the chip, and then use of tape-automated-bonding (TAB) to install the chip on an end use device. It is also known to use tape automated bonds (TAB) as a test array where after testing, the TAB contacts are severed. The art also has examples of using one set of contacts for testing, wherein the test contacts are subsequently removed from the die prior to installation of the die on an end use device.
One type of electrical and mechanical connection of an integrated circuit chip (die) to a package is called "flip-chip" or "controlled collapse chip connection" (C4) and is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,401,126, to Lewis F. Miller, et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 3,429,040 to Lewis F. Miller. C4 involves forming solder balls on the surface of the chip that connect signal terminals of the chip with corresponding connections on the package, where the solder balls provide both electrical contact and mechanical support between the chip and the end use device. A disadvantage and difficulty with known C4 interconnections is that they do not allow testing prior to committing the chip to the end use device, other than wafer probe testing which does not allow testing with all the signal terminals metallurgically connected, or more complete KGD testing which can be performed with a soldered bond pad connection. Still further, wafer probe testing of the C4 solder balls undesirably disturbs their pristine condition because of the undesirable probe contact.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,517,127 to Bergeron et al., hereby incorporated by reference, shows the use of controlled collapse chip connection (C4) type solder ball connections in combination with wire bond pads. The C4 technology is used only for non-stress KGD testing the die prior to final connection to an end use device using wire bond technology. The solder balls are located away from the neutral point and will be highly stressed. The reference to C4 therefore does not teach that the connections are laid out and designed for thermal and mechanical stress. Not all C4 contacts are designed for thermal stress and Bergeron et al. is a good example. These C4 connections are not in an array designed for stress tolerance which can withstand thermal stress because they are limited in number and placed away from the chip center.
There is no provision in Bergeron for use of wire bond technology to test a die which will be optionally connected to a an end use device by solder ball C4 array. The test electrical connectors are placed entirely in a plane above the wire bond pads and are not required to be removed after testing of the die. The solder ball test balls protrude above the level of the wire bond pad which allows testing between the die and a test device without affecting the surface of the wire bond pad. The solder balls and the wire bond pads are not on the same planar surface. In another aspect, the disclosure provides that the wire bond die has a wire bond pad disposed at an upper surface of the die. This procedure eliminates probe testing on the wire bond pad and gives metallurgical ball test connections. Wafer dicing may be done before or after testing and there is no need for removal of the added test elements. The subsequent electrical connection, however, is always by wire bond connection.
The testing disclosed in Bergeron cannot withstand more than a few thermal cycles because the stresses will cause breaking of the solder metallurgical joints. The Bergeron type of connections may provide for only 40 joints. In contrast, some stress tolerant solder ball array contacts have up to or more than 400 joints, are located close to the chip center and may be designed for specific thermal stress and mechanical characteristics.
It is also known in the prior art to use redundant C4 connections where one centrally located set is used for the final connection to the end use device, and the other set is used for testing. However, this is not a reliable KGD performance life span alternative, because the C4 array used in testing the final end product has to be mechanically strong as well as electrically correct. The test set of (C)4 connections cannot be used to stress tolerant test an integrated circuit because it will fail within ten cycles because of lack of mechanical strength available for the C4 test connections which are necessarily at the periphery. This is because the stresses increase as on moves out from the center of a C4 array. This heretofore known C4 testing has been used only for electrical testing. Mere use of C4 peripheral balls in place of wire bond pads will not work for KGD testing of a centrally located flip-chip C4 array. The reason is that if only C4 ball contacts are used around the periphery of the chip, instead of pads, these C4 ball contacts will experience very high thermal stress, because they are away from the center contact. Such a peripheral array of balls will quickly deteriorate and break under a few cycles of thermal stress.
In addition to the above discussed prior art, it should be noted that wafer level testing of dies is well known. This type of testing, however, uses probe cards which upon contact with bond pads or solder balls may cause damage to the pads or balls which will effect later bonding to a module or packaging. This type of testing does not provide for a good metallurgical contact and cannot provide a KGD test where thermal and mechanical stress are accounted for at the die, integrated circuit or wafer level.
A stress tolerant solder ball array is an array of solder ball connections which are formed between an integrated circuit and an end use device as a test device which provide electrical connections and mechanical capability (thermal stress). The stress tolerant solder ball array may be a complete C4 array that is designed for connection to a device which takes into account electrical, thermal stress, and mechanical requirements.
In one embodiment a wafer is first diced into integrated circuit dies, (chips) prior to any testing. The die or integrated circuit is not further diced or cut up into smaller components. This embodiment is directed to obtaining known good dies after dicing and prior to placement of the die on a an end use device. If the die is known to be good, then there is lower loss at the next step of packaging of a plurality of dies such as in a multi chip module (MCM). An increase of module and die through put is provided by improved KGD dies which do not cause expensive loss of many other dies after installation of a bad die. It is an advantage of this invention to test an integrated circuit or die (chip) after the die has been diced from a wafer containing many dies. A purpose of this testing is to obtain known good dies by optionally combining the technologies of the solder ball connection, flip-chip or C4 connection and wire bond pad connection.
The present invention is particularly advantageous for the packaging of multi chip modules (MCM), since the probability that a package contains a defective chip increases with the number of chips contained in the package. Testing to produce improved known good dies prior to packaging afforded by the present inventions reduces the risk that a multiple-chip package will be discarded because of one or more of the dies is defective. Moreover, the small interconnect footprint provided by C4 and other solder ball connection methods allows many dies to be packaged closely together. It is an advantage of this invention to provide known good dies which when used on an MCM with other dies, reduces the number of bad MCM package assemblies produced. This reduces loss of other good dies on the MCM where a bad die is installed.
In another embodiment of this invention, the die is provided with an essentially planar surface which has placed there upon both solder balls or flip-chip C4 array connections to be used for connecting to a test or end use device and wire bonding pads which may be connected to a test or end use device. By placement of both types of connections at approximately the same level, applicant allows for optional testing of the die by testing using the solder ball or flip-chip C4 array contacts or the wire bond pads. This allows production of a single chip which is amenable to either kind of testing, and for subsequent assembly by wire bond connection, or by solder ball or C4 array connection after testing on the complimentary terminals.
It is an advantage of this invention to provide the flip-chip stress tolerant solder ball array and the wire bond contacts on substantially the same level of the chip so that either is accessible during final installation to a packaging module. When the stress tolerant solder ball array contacts are to be the final contacts to the end use device they must touch the end use device before the wire bond contacts.
Flip-chip C4 array or other solder ball array contacts may be connected on an integrated circuit or die surface to the wire bond pads. If it is elected to use the stress tolerant solder ball array contacts for testing, the stress tolerant solder ball array contacts are brought in to engagement with heated solder pads of a test device which may be a substrate or module. The resultant soldered metallurgical connection then is used for the improved KGD test using a stress tolerant solder ball array designed to withstand thermal and mechanical stress anticipated in use with an end use device for evaluation of integrated circuit performance life span. Cyclic temperature testing with stress tolerant solder ball connections gives a more complete test of an integrated circuit or die. Removal of the stress tolerant solder ball array bond is then provided by reheating the test device and the die to a point where the solder begins to flow and the die is lifted off of the test substrate. The die can also be removed by mechanical sheer force. It is an advantage to provide pristine wire bond pad contacts when integrated testing is done with a stress tolerant solder ball connection. After testing utilizing the stress tolerant solder ball array contacts, the integrated circuit die is known to be good, and can be placed upon an end use device substrate utilizing the wire bond pads for final connections. The end use device may also be an MCM device.
It is a further advantage of this invention to provide a die wherein wire bond pad connections may be used for KGD testing, or alternatively stress tolerant solder ball array connections may be used to do a KGD test. Completely redundant wire bond pads and solder ball array connections are provided on a single chip where either may be optionally used for test or for contact to an end use device. If it is desired to obtain a KGD for a flip-chip C4 array or other stress tolerant solder ball array connection to an end use device, testing will be done using wire bond pads. Alternatively, if the die is ultimately to be connected to its end use device by wire bond pads, testing will be conducted by utilizing the stress tolerant solder ball C4 array connections. It is a further advantage to provide a die lay out where the chip is capable of either wire bond connections or solder ball array connections, and where the die customer can elect which is to be used for KGD testing. The invention reduces possible errors prior to a final connection of either the solder ball array connections for wire bond pad connections to the end use device. Another advantage of this invention is to provide an integrated circuit or die manufacturing line and testing line where alternate stress tolerant solder ball array and wire bond pad connections are used to provide a KGD test.
Applicant's invention allows testing of the solder ball array contacts without disturbing the pristine condition of the solder ball array contacts when a wire bond connect to text device is used. This provides an improved KGD or known good integrated circuit, which is a further step forward in the manufacturing process than testing at a wafer level or at the die level with probes and the like.
In another embodiment the integrated circuit may comprise a large wafer segment having a plurality of sub-integrated circuits on its surface. This permits construction of a multi chip module on a single wafer without dicing and reassembling. This invention may also be used with wafer level multi-integrated circuit devices.
Here, a plurality of integrated circuits may be placed on a single wafer, and then the single wafer containing the plurality of integrated circuits is tested as a known good die in accordance with this invention. The wafer then may be incorporated into an end use device without further dicing or cutting into smaller units.
This invention may still further be used with micro-electro-mechanical integrated circuit mechanisms which include silicone based motors. These devices require the use of connections to their end use devices, and should be KGD tested prior to final assembly. Therefore, the principles of this invention utilizing stress tolerant solder ball arrays and wire bond pads for alternately testing a device are applicable. Especially, in the design of motors and mechanical mechanisms, additional mechanical vibrations may be experienced which should be tested for in determining if the device is a KGD. Additional advantages of the invention are set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention may be further realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations, particularly pointed out in the claims.
In design of a stress tolerant solder ball array (10) the center contact (18) of the array will not experience stress during thermal change because it is in the center of all of the contacts which are bonded to an end use device or test device. As one moves outwardly from the center contact (18), stresses are known to increase. It is still further known to design the stress tolerant solder ball array (10) so that some ball contacts are used to compensate for thermal stress. This is the practice in design of flip-chip C4 arrays of the type used in this invention. The photographs of
In stress tolerant solder ball array or flip-chip C4 array contacts, mechanical and thermal stresses can be compensated for by the many contacts which are provided (up to 400 or more). Stresses are also used to design the balls and for ball placement as described in "Geometric Optimization of Controlled Collapse Interconnections", L. S. Goldman, IBM Journal of Research Development, May 1969, pp. 251-265; "Reliability of Controlled Collapse Interconnections", K. C. Norris and A. H. Landzberg, IBM Journal of Research Development, May 1969, pp. 266-271; "Thermal Comparison of Flip-Chip Relative to Chip-and-Wire Semiconductor Attachment in Hybrid Circuits: An Experimental Approach", D. M. Cavanaugh, pp. 214-219; which are incorporated herein by reference.
When optional stress tolerant solder ball connections and wire bond pads are used, stress tolerance is determined by the connection to the end use device requirements. Actual configurations which compensate for thermal stress which may be used in accordance with this invention are shown in
The stress tolerant solder ball array (10) is used for testing when wire bond pads (12) will connect to a substrate module. Utilizing stress tolerant solder ball array or flip-chip C4 array contacts to KGD test allows for thermal stress and many cycles of testing required for KGD testing prior to making final contacts between an end use device and wire bond pads (12).
In this invention, the use of the a stress tolerant solder ball array is used to test an integrated circuit which is to be connected to an end use device by wire bond pads. A flip-chip C4 array which has been previously designed for withstanding thermal stress can be used with this invention as a stress tolerant solder ball array.
However, when wire bond pads are used for connecting the integrated circuit to a KGD test device, it is not required that the solder ball or flip-chip C4 contacts are stress tolerant.
In another embodiment, when it is desired to use solder ball array or flip-chip C4 array connections as the final contact to an end use device (20), as shown in
An exemplary die is shown the photographs of
After KGD testing is done in accordance with a stress tolerant solder ball or stress tolerant flip-chip C4 array contact between the chip (14) and the substrate (20) as shown in
The solder balls, used when stress tolerant solder ball array flip-chip C4 array KGD testing of this invention is used, may be heavily leaded solder balls. Ninety-five percent lead and five percent tin have been used. Therefore, upon reheating, the balls soften and there is a sheer right in the middle. It has been found that this technique is very reliable, and that there is no smearing or inadvertent contact from one ball area to another upon removal.
The removal of the solder ball (10) from pad (24) can also be thought of as forming a narrow neck or an hourglass shape which is sheered. This is the taffy pull referred to above and it is known that this does not produce bad dies by solder distortions at the die level after stress tolerant solder ball array or flip-chip C4 array KGD testing.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
Legal Events
Original Image


text:
Auction price: Register or sign-in to see quarterly averages
or visit the Wine Market Journal
Drink between: 1998 - 2009 (Add My Dates)
4,272 Tasting Notes
4 Tasting Notes
900 Tasting Notes
Port nose; brackish and pungent; well done (that is over-cooked like) raisen and cherry; rather harsh back end.
Mature balanced textured integrated; cedar and earth; elegant blackberry-cherry with some raisen; still has some tannins to melt.
Seemed to be slightly corked.
Anybody who is always concerned and nervous about drinking windows (like me), I can tell you that the 85 Beaucastel is drinking very well right now, with no signs of declining. The color was beautiful, resembling a mature red burgundy with its cloudy, red orange composition. The nose was classic Beaucastel, but the finish was silky, clean and long. Blind, I might have even said Burgundy. An excellent example of Beaucastel in my opinion (Red Burgundy lovers go and buy this wine).
Souper chez Christophe Cardonna: Malheureusement, cette bouteille issue d'un millésime précoce ne montrait plus que l'ombre du beau vin que fut le 1985. Il a encore une belle texture ronde et voluptueuse mais montre des signes d'oxydation. Dommage.


text:
Before submitting feedback, you may want to check the Fark Frequently Asked Questions page.
Real news. Real funny.
It's Not News, It's Fark
If you can read this, either the style sheet didn't load or you have an older browser that doesn't support style sheets. Try clearing your browser cache and refreshing the page.
Submit a Link »
In Other Media
Stories from our partner sites:
One Eye Color Is Linked to Alcoholism
Scientists Determine How You Should P...
Cops: Toddler Was Alive at Start of 4...
Now World's No. 2 Rich Guy Spurns Trump
More news at Newser »
Couple Finds Worms In Their Salmon
Caught On Video: Man In SUV Jumps Dra...
Blue Eyes Linked To Higher Risk Of Al...
Two Sweet Dogs Babysit A Barnyardful...
More news at HuffPostWeirdNews »


text:
Saint Illians Inn: "Good Value Hotel in Makati" Makati Hotel Tip by AlbuqRay
Makati Hotels: 75 reviews and 114 photos
I stayed at the Saint Illians Inn for two nights in Apr 04. A very clean, air conditioned room with hot shower was 1350 pesos, an excellent value for that area. The staff were friendly and helpful. The continental breakfast that came with the room was just toast and coffee. The menu prices were a little high but I ate out anyway. This is a nice little hotel in a very convenient location.
Unique Qualities: Upstairs hallways are open air and the back staircase is a spiral staircase to all floors. One disadvantage is that there is no elevator.
Address: 7461 Santillian Street, Makati City
Price Comparison: less expensive than average
Directions: Near the intersection of Herrera and Javier Streets
Price: US$20-40
Theme: Hotel
Website: http://www.SaintilliansInn.com
More Reviews (2)
AlbuqRay's Related Pages
"Karma with free will: we earn our destiny by choosing among countably infinite eigenstates"
- Member Rank:
- 0 0 1 8 7
- Forum Rank:
- 0 0 2 0 0
- 1,795 Reviews
- 7,660 Photos
- Add Friend
- Follow
- Send Message
Have you been to Makati?Share Your Travels


text:
The title really says it all.
I posted a big long rant on the Mormons and More board, and I'll try to not do that here.
Sometimes I am confidently in the A/A camp, but I go through these cycles where I guess I doubt my doubt in God. I don't know.
Like I fully embrace logic and what science has taught us about the world and it's origins. And the more that I've embraced all of that, the smaller God became and the less sense he made. But random things get me wondering about religion again, but I can never fully embrace belief - and I don't think I want to. I don't know if I am still holding onto some fear of being wrong, it seems like that at the moment, but in the past I didn't have this fear.
I wasn't raised with belief at all. I chose to seek it out as a teen and fully embraced faith and belief. But now - 12 years later I cannot remember what it was the made me beileve in God. And that faith I embraced (LDS) is something I believe to be a fraud - from fervent study, which is easy to do with a church so young - how do I do that for Christianity? And why am I so hung up on Christianity when I can learn the basics about the formation of Islam and write it off so easily (and in some ways it reminds me so much of the formation of Mormonism, which may contribute to it.) - I don't need to read anything about JWs besides the Wiki page to realize it is ridiculous. I don't feel like I need to be Jewish to be right with God. I see no salvation or progression for my soul or whatever else in Eastern religions, I'm most definitely not Pagan. So why, why am I stuck in this stupid cycle of almost faith, and a whole lot of doubt?


text:
We are so pleased you are visiting us and considering our solutions. We are different because we care. We care about:
• Your success• Your brand• Making this easy for you • Your satisfaction – we deliver what you order ON TIME and ACCURATELY• What you care about
We promise to help you step-by-step and make this convenient for you. Our reputation is at stake – indeed, we never want an unsatisfied customer to reflect on our brand; we want your business again and again and the best way to do that is to give you what you want, when you want it….and hassle-free.
Browse our variety of items, you'll find exactly what you need – or call us and we'll guide you through the process.
Call us and we'll keep our promise 1-888-788-0101.
Paw Print Sports Magnet (5 3/4"x5 3/4")
Magnet Alligator
Magnet Bear
Magnet Bear In Rectangle
Magnet Bear w/Box
Magnet Bear w/Clothing
Magnet Cats & Dogs
Magnet Cow
Magnet Crab
Magnet Dog & Cat
Magnet Dog Bone
Magnet Dog House
Magnet Elephant on Box
Magnet Fish
Magnet Lamb
Magnet Large Dog Bone
Magnet Mustang
Magnet Paw Print
Magnet Pig


text:
As the daughter of a Grammy-winning pop singer, House of Harlow founder Nicole Richie spent her childhood amidst couture-clad celebrities and Hollywood glamour. Richie's glitzy formative years helped shape her sophisticated personal style — now on full display in House of Harlow 1960, her stunning line of jewelry, shoes and accessories. Chunky bracelets and rings, oversize cat-eye sunglasses, and bright-colored animal-skin handbags finished off with jeweled clasps and other details are just some of the highlights of Richie's luxurious label, which launched to much fanfare in 2009. House of Harlow's fierce footwear collection includes everything from snakeskin platform pumps and peep-toe booties to slip-on loafers detailed with whipstitching; cork platform wedges and furry boots perfectly capture Richie's boho-chic vibe. Naturally, House of Harlow 1960's finishing touches complement Winter Kate, Richie's high-fashion collection of women's clothing.
Turn up the chic on and off the sand with seaside must-haves, from swimsuits to wedges
Be ready for every winter occasion with the season's go-to shoes: Versatile and ultra-cool boots. You'll find the perfect finishing touches for whatever your datebook has in store: Think sleek riding boots for weekend errands, luxe suede lace-ups for a flirty office kick, and embellished stilettos just begging for a night out.
Designer Nicole Richie's signature retro-glam accessories.
Vince Camuto gloves, French Connection bags, and more mix-and-match, high-street accents.


text:
March 14, 2012
Special Photo
Alfred Smith, III was recently named Southwest's vice president of ground operations/AirTran.
Stories this photo appears in:
Southwest Airlines makes executive changes
Southwest Airlines announced changes to its top-tier management Wednesday as it continues to merge with AirTran Airways.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.


text:
Item 3034345
World Map on Cotton Fabric
Product Actions
Additional Information
- Content: 100% Cotton
- Width: 55"/56"
- Care Method: Machine wash warm, tumble dry and remove promptly.
- Bolt Size Average: 15 Yards
- Double Rubs: 15,000
Made in the USA
World Map on Cotton Fabric is rated out of 5 by 1.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Lynnens from Looks even better in person! Love this fabric. It was very easy to sew, and has the perfect weight for curtains. The selvages looked like part of the print, so I didn't even have to hem the sides!
Date published: 2015-01-18


text:
HBN Boondocking the Nation: 16 Days, 8300mi, 1 Motel
View Single Post
Joined: Jun 2008
Location: Seat of my Ruckus
Oddometer: 12,079
Day 13 -Resting in Helena
Day 13
Rest Day in Helena
I sincerely enjoy the soundest sleep of the trip and wake around 7 for coffee. We go out for an AM breakfast at a neat local earthy café.
I treat them to a breakfast. My uncle has Huevos Rancheros and my aunt, Oatmeal, while I enjoy a huge whole wheat pancake.
After our filling breakfast, we drive to the nearby motorcycle shop and I buy an oil filter before returning home for more coffee and conversation. Around noon, they drop me off downtown and I walk around taking many photos and exploring some of the local shops along the pedestrian mall.
I saw my first bear!
Never seen Ramen like that
Cool Mural.
The Cathedral is impressive and built with gold rush money.
A stop at the library has me chatting with the librarians hosting coffee and cookies in the lobby in exchange for completing a survey. A young woman my age overheads and begins asking me a few questions. It turns out she is a local news reporter for CBS and asks to interview me for her blog. I go outside the library where she attaches a microphone to my sweater and begins her 10 minute interview about me, my trip and my goals. I regrettably fail to take a picture of her, perhaps out of respect or shyness, and we exchange cards before bidding goodbye. I drink my coffee and hike to the historic fire tower overlooking town for some more photos.
After exploring more shops, I meet my uncle and aunt then continue to the outdoor patio of a Mediterranean restaurant for lunch.
I enjoy a delicious cup of seafood chowder and share half of my aunts succulent chicken sandwich.
After lunch, we get oil then go over to the ranch of a family friend outside of the north end of Helena. Darryl has two horses, many acres and an antique and new Mustang in the garage parked beside four wheelers and a BMW R1150RT with less than 10k mi. He offers me space and tools allowing me to accomplish my oil change in less than an hour. At 5600 mi into the trip, I am a bit late on my service interval and the black used oil reflects that.
We enjoy a beer on the patio overlooking his ranch and Helena in the distance.
His kind wife, Carina, invites us to stay for burgers and we spend the evening relaxing telling stories and swapping advice on riding and local sights.
Darryl gives me a map and nice route for tomorrows trip to Yellowstone then follows it up with a slideshow presentation on his 60 HD TV of a recent trip. After many thanks and handshakes, I leave a cloud of dust riding 60mph into the darkness of the sage lined dirt road back to town. I use the washer and dryer to do a much needed load of laundry mmmm clean clothes! I retire to bed around midnight then poke around the internet on my phone until 1:00AM before falling asleep.
Lost with Mike
Only those that go would know.
- WayneJ
12' Ruckus, 01' R1150GS, 75' XL250
HBurgNinja - The Thread
HBN Boondocking the Nation
Beards to Canada
View Public Profile
Find More Posts by HBN


text:
|187 posts found
Novice Member
Joined: 6/11/12
Originally posted by lonewolf1980
Not true I pre ordered from Amazon and have all the perks a pre purchaser received.i.e.I have been in 2 betas and have a 3 day head start.
Login or Register to never see this panel
Advanced Member
Joined: 10/03/06
It's fine to worry because there is still plenty to worry about. I mean we haven't seen/tested asura/sylvari yet or most of the high level content, and classes are still good bit out of whack balance wise. With less than 2 months to release they have a good bit to accomplish.
That being said though, their internal team did a good job of squashing bugs. The only other beta that I've seen so bug-free was RIFT. The dev team is also very vocal on forums about major issues that testers have come up with(unlike Bioware). I'm definitely not so worried that I won't purchase the game(TSW) and I'm 100% sure I can get $60 value out of it, heck I already have with just the beta weekends/stress tests.
The people saying GW2 will fail don't understand MMO price models at all. A major cause of failure is the subscription fee. People need to feel like they're getting their money's worth out of their subscription fee. If there is nothing for them to do then they feel like they aren't getting that. That is the exact problem with SWTOR; once you hit max level, which is very quickly, the content dries up fast and the content that hooked you on the game(VO/Cutscenes) takes so long to develop. Once people quit then you have the $15 hurdle to get them to play again.
GW2 doesn't have the subscription problem. People will pay the $60 and feel like they got their money's worth. They might stop playing for awhile, but they can pick it up again with no barriers to keep them away. You aren't forced to keep playing to get the best bang for your buck so it is less likely people will burn themselves out.
GW2 will do well because compared to other MMO's they are offering a lot for a simple box price. They have RvR, battlegrounds, tournaments, dynamic events, puzzle dungeons, regular dungeons with multiple paths, crafting(leveling up from it too!), the ability to visit other servers, a more active combat system, and a personal story. You tell me what MMO offers more for a flat $60 fee. That is why GW2 will do just fine even with bugs/imbalance issues, even if you hate the fantasy setting you have to concede that GW2 offers a lot for just the box price.
Novice Member
Joined: 7/02/10
Originally posted by botrytis
NVidia 500 series cards were bugged for the BWE2, mine, for instance, made no noticeable changes to Fraps with any video setting set to higher or lower quality. My wife's machine, again 500 series Nvidia, constantly crashed. Although I am currently not concerned, if I still see problems with these cards at the end of BWE 3, I would say the storm warning flags should be flying...with the strong chance of major sh!tstorm hitting if either NVidia or Anet drops the ball on this. I am patient to a fault, but from what I've observed in many different communities, this would make the game a 'Fail!' in most players books.
Novice Member
Joined: 5/19/04
Originally posted by Distaste
Great post, this is something most do not realize. You said it better than I could, but the cost alone is "worth it" just for the content I have played in 4-5 days of playing the game in beta. I am still playing GW1 occasionally, and it is great to just be able to login and play, when you want, without having to pay a subscription fee. The accessibility is unmatched in any subscription based game.
Originally posted by Poison_Adele
"The more they overthink the plumbing, the easier it is to stop up the drain." - Scotty, Star Trek III: The Search For Spock.
Hard Core Member
Joined: 12/09/08
"See how I reward those who fail me!"
Originally posted by DjinnAjit
Yeah, I think the GW2 community is turning into a really venomous thing. It's probably a combination of super fans with unrealistic expectations being disappointed combined with haters/fans of other games who somehow desire GW2 to fail. But then again I suppose that's nothing new here.
"Tiny clown, he got wet. I was talking to a psychic and I can't sleep in the ozone. There are too many different peanuts, looking sad.
Novice Member
Joined: 12/27/11
Hey guyz I herd GW2 was the latest kool thing so I wanted to grab some attention by showing that I'm REALLY concerned by the game but I didn't test it a lot and my mates are all talking about it so I'm feeling useless so I can't find anything to say that I'M WORRID MATE !
***** Before hitting that reply button, please READ the WHOLE thread you're about to post in *****


text:
Nice South Miami location.
Pros: Very nice desk staff especially Sandy who realized that a document found in the lobby belonged to me and and returned it to me.
cafe serving nice breakfast foods.
Excellent free shuttle around the area, eliminates cabs.
Cons: Wifi wouldnt work in our room but worked fine in the lobby.
It seems a bit worn, in need of refurbishment.
Noisy air conditioner.
Guests hanging out in the hallways.
- Official Description (provided by the hotel):
- Hotel Indigo Miami Dadeland offers affordable luxury. Our Miami accommodations are designed as an oasis for travelers looking for an escape from ordinary hotels, but who still desire traditional hotel services. Vacation and business travelers alike can enjoy the location of our Miami hotel with the Miami International Airport (MIA) located just 10 miles away. Vacationers looking for lodging in Miami, Florida can enjoy a stay at our boutique Miami hotel, offering quick access to area attractions like Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and the world-renowned Miami South Beach. Our boutique hotel is also near the Dadeland Mall, one of Florida's premium shopping centers, with over 185 specialty stores. With a convenient location near the Miami International Airport, our hotel in South Miami is ideal for corporate travelers who appreciate the 24-hour Business Center and free high-speed, wireless Internet access throughout the hotel. Our Miami, FL accommodations also provide quick access to businesses such as Beckman Coulter, the University of Miami, Noven, Avmed, Panasonic and the Baptist and South Miami Hospitals. During your stay at our hotel in South Miami, you can cool off with a dip in our outdoor pool, workout in our 24-hour Fitness Center or unwind with a late-night cocktail from Phi Bar or a Starbucks latte from our cafe. For the very best in upscale Miami hotels, choose Hotel Indigo Miami Dadeland. ... more less
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Travelocity, Priceline, Expedia, Hotels.com, Orbitz, Cheap Tickets, TripOnline SA, Agoda and Jetsetter so you can book your Hotel Indigo Miami Dadeland reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Hotel Indigo Miami


text:
The Liberal Democrat Cabinet Ministers' Christmas Card
Happy Christmas from Nick Clegg, Danny Alexander, Vince Cable, Chris Huhne and Michael Moore....
- published: 22 Dec 2011
- views: 2290
- author: Mark Pack
It looks as though Nick Clegg's party really is in it together with David Cameron's A coalition cabinet meeting in Downing Street last month. Photograph: Phil Hannaford ...
The Guardian 2010-06-09"There are £50bn of cuts built into the Labour budget produced in March, and not one single pound of those cuts has yet been identified by Labour party."
Like World News?
Liberal may refer to:
"Liberal" in the United Kingdom is customarily used to describe political beliefs in the classical liberal tradition of the old Liberal Party, rooted in a belief in freedom of the individual. It is also used as a short hand to describe policies of the modern Liberal Democrats.


text:
Check Availability
Great apartment layout, wonderful maintenance. I like that the parking and buildings are open and you don't have to worry about letting people in (I chose to have a security system). Convenient location, not too noisy outside (the hallways can be… Full Review ▶
Great place to live, You feel like you are in a resort.The access to the online system make everything more easy and convinient. The people living are friendly. No noise at all. Cleaning condition great. Pool are very close to the… Full Review ▶
So far it's been great, my children love it here. Very friendly environment. Quite and peaceful place to live. Coming from my house to an apartment, I didn't think I was going to like it but it has turned out to… Full Review ▶
so far very good. Place is big enough for all our furniture. Trash area is clean. Landscaping is Nice. It is very close to my work and all shopping and restaurant. I have lived another apartment before. We are enjoying our… Full Review ▶
VERY SPACIOUS AND TRULY A HIDDEN GEM. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR EVERYTHING. BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED. QUIET, SAFE AND WELL MAINTAINED COMMUNITY. FRIENDLY, RESPONSIVE AND ACCOMMODATING STAFF. VERY RESPONSIVE MAINTENANCE STAFF WHO DOES QUALITY WORK. Full Review ▶
My experience thus far at Atlantic Crossings has been good. It's always seems to be quiet no matter what time of the day/ week it is. The amenities provided such as pool/ grills etc. are always kept clean and presentable. The… Full Review ▶
It has always been the best. Courteous and attentive staff, always improvements being made. Issues addressed quickly. I have lived here for 6 years or so and have never been happier with an apartment community. Brain and staff always strive to… Full Review ▶
So far I've been pleased with the customer service and the friendliness of the community. The only thing I wish it had s playground for kids and the noise of my neighbors above me is terrible. Love the unit love the… Full Review ▶
I love it here. Again, my neighbors tend to be loud at inappropriate times of night but that is legitimately the only complaint I have. I will more than likely resign my lease. I also wish that there were more doggy… Full Review ▶
It has been great. Brian, the property manager, is wonderful. He will go above and.beyond to help you. The rest of the staff has been great amd vwry friendly too. It's a very quiet neighborhood. I feel vwry sade here. I… Full Review ▶
Aside from the noise and the occasional inconsiderate neighbor doing laundry at 2 in the morning, the apartment complex is excellent. the staff is outstanding, particularly Pauline she always go out of her way to please residents. the maintenance staff is… Full Review ▶
We just moved in this past weekend. The whole process has been very smooth and Pauline is amazing. Maintenance is very prompt with service requests and neighbors are friendly. We look forward to spending the next 14 months in Atlantic Crossing… Full Review ▶
The maintinence staff works bery diligently and usually handles service requests completely before a business day has elapsed. I am a man of few words so here are 98 more characters to reach the required 200 in order to complete this… Full Review ▶
Start to finish, this was the best experience I've ever had with an apartment complex. The staff is professional, friendly and prompt in their responses. I highly recommend this place if you are thinking about living near the St. Johns Town… Full Review ▶
Love the apartment! Just wish I had moved on the 3rd floor. If we could get The noise level under control this apartment would be a 5 star in all areas . Suggestion To the management to put small children on… Full Review ▶
I really like the apartment I'm living in, it is a lot better than the one I Lived in before I moved here. Atlantic crossing is a good community, nice and clean the grounds are Beautiful, The staff is friendly and… Full Review ▶
I live on the second floor and my neighbors above me either wear concrete shoes or stomp. I've lived in apartments before, but this is by far the worst case of sheer disrespect for neighbors I have ever heard. It sounds… Full Review ▶
Atlantic Crossing is a nice community conveniently located with clean , quality apartments. The location is convenient to St. Johns Town Center, Tinsletown Theaters and numerous restaurants of all types. Perfect for busy professional working in one of the many office… Full Review ▶
Your clubhouse is beautiful. I can't wait for warmer weather so I can use the pool. The location is convenient. I did not have the best move-in experience but have had minimal interaction with staff since. I am generally pretty satisfied… Full Review ▶
Just moved in on the 18th of September. The office staff is amazing. Very tentative. The apartment is beautiful! Signing our lease was also very easy. Pauline in the front office is the best! She assured me I would love living… Full Review ▶
Atlantic Crossing and MAA communities are very welcoming and pleasant to live at. I always feel at home and would recommend anybody looking for a new home to choose Atlantic Crossing or any of there sister properties. Thank you for always… Full Review ▶
It's just okay. Paying too much for location that we don't care so much about. The courtesy officer is a lunatic. There have been times when the trash compactor was overflowing. The billiard table is not available after hours. Staff is… Full Review ▶
I love living here. I live in a one bedroom unit. The way the unit is laid makes it feel much bigger than it actually is. It feels like you are in a home and not a generic apartment. The walls… Full Review ▶
Recently move to the area and so far very happy with Atlantic Crossing. Very clean and calm community. Perfect environment for a student like myself. Full Review ▶
I've only been living here for about a week thus far, but the apartment is a great size. I love the layout. It's in a great area and even though it isn't gated, I feel safe. My only complaint would be… Full Review ▶
Nice, clean, and quiet. Needs more parking spaces. An empty garage could double as motorcycle parking, leaving more spaces for cars. Maybe heat the pool.Great location. Mrs. Pauline is a gem. Nothing else to say but I like it a lot.People… Full Review ▶
My community is safe and well maintained. I feel what I pay in rent is worth it. I appreciate that my community is interested in feedback and work hard to make sure they are providing great service. The maintaince could be… Full Review ▶
I would recommend a gated community over this one for the cost. The community is well cared for and looks nice. Maintenance staff is on their game. I also love the layout of my apartment. The walls/floors are very thin. I… Full Review ▶
Excellence place to live, i will recommend this community to a friend. the Staff is very friendly and caters to your need.. I love living at this community and this is truly a great place to live and work. i love… Full Review ▶
Great apartments. The staff members are very helpful and pleasant. Would recommend this complex to anyone and look forward to living here. My Apartment was spotless upon move in and required little to no work. It was very large for a… Full Review ▶
Very nice amenities area. Workout room is well maintained. The pool is very nice with a covered sitting area. The apartment is very well laid out with ample closet space. The appliances are in good condition. There is plenty of parking… Full Review ▶
I love this community. This is the nicest place I've ever lived. The apartment is spacious. The staff attends to every issue promptly. I don't plan to ever move again. My only objection was the color of the walls but I… Full Review ▶
I have had a great experience at Atlantic Crossing so far. I have never run into any problems and have been pleasantly surprised at the availability of parking since there are not assigned spaces. If I had to pick one thing… Full Review ▶
very helpful staff , office ,Pauline ,Bryan Maint. I believe his name is James went out his way to assist me with storage and disposal on packing materials , also cleaning rep of Spanish decent very helpful in assisting my wife… Full Review ▶
Peaceful community. Most of the time. Leasing office and management office are rude and need to be trained better. Maintenance team was good. I could hear a lot of noise from outside, but mostly late at night. Walk through should be… Full Review ▶
My rent has gone up and I believe it is way too high for just a one bedroom apartment. Also I do not enjoy splitting our water like we do among the residents. What if two people lived in a one… Full Review ▶
The staff has always gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure I have an excellent experience. I love my apartment inside and out. Its beautiful, quiet, and is in a great location. I would recommend this community to… Full Review ▶
It is a beautiful community and I am well pleased with how well the grounds are maintained. Welcomed by office staff and residents. Enjoyable move in experience and staff was responsive to all my questions and requests. I would recommend this… Full Review ▶
My experiences at this complex, overall, have been good. The property manager, Brian Cron, is so courteous and helpful, as is Miss Pauline, another of the property consultants here. Our staff is absolutely wonderful. Having said that, it is always challenging… Full Review ▶
My dogs like the staff a lot-is there anything else to be said? We have had a few minor concerns that the staff took care of that same day-and fixed correctly the first time. blah blah blah blah blah blah blah,… Full Review ▶
I moved in last week and the apartment is exactly what Pauline showed me. Beautiful inside and outside. Very quiet and friendly neighbors and a very friendly and helpful staff. Maintainer came super fast after I made a request. All the… Full Review ▶
This is a very laid back and friendly community. The amnesties are always available to use and are always in great condition. The office staff are extremely approachable which make them great to work with. Everything is always done in a… Full Review ▶
Nothing but great so far. Obviously it has the small issues that any apartment will have, but we are very happy with our apartment. The biggest issue I would complain about is that, in places designated dog walks, there is very… Full Review ▶
I love this community and especially my apartment. My unit is very spacious, well layed out and very quiet. I have recently been helping a friend look for an apartment on the other side of town and each time we look… Full Review ▶
This complex is perfect for professionals who do not want the college dorm/frat house neighbor. The setting, quietness, proximity to restaurants, the beaches and shopping make Atlantic Crossing the perfect choice for apartment living. Full Review ▶
Pauline was very helpful and personal. She listened to what we wanted and found us the best fit for our new home. Thank you. The pool, fire pit, and grills are a nice touch for having friends over. Ample parking makes… Full Review ▶
I love it! Everyone is so nice and any request we put in gets done immediately. The grounds always look great and if I have any problems, the office staff is very accommodating and helpful. The apartment itself is great too!… Full Review ▶
Very quiet, nice community. Staff are great. I hate my washer, dryer, and dishwasher. My clothes and dishes are in much worse shape than when I came. I would have gone to Tapestry Park and paid extra to have nicer appliances.… Full Review ▶
A great place to live for a reasonable price. Convenient location, close to Saint John's Town Center and Southside Blvd. There are great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment nearby. About 15 minutes from the beach. SoHo Building #5 is best because it's… Full Review ▶
I have had no problems since moving in. I have been here for almost a year and everyone has been great. All my maintenance requests are handled in a timely manner, and the staff has been great too. Good location as… Full Review ▶
So far so good! I have enjoyed living in Atlantic Crossing. I haven't had many issues since moving in. Full Review ▶
Parking spots very limited unless in the very back, management needs serious help, and maintenance requests take forever to get completed. Full Review ▶
Perfect apartment for students and young professionals. PERFECT. This community is great. ALL of the negative reviews come from ghetto trash with pets and babys. Frankly, these people belong in one of Jacksonville's OTHER fine communiteies. (lol) If you have a… Full Review ▶
This was my worst apartment experience ever. BE WARNED: You will be nickled and dimed before you move out. I cleaned my entire apartment, which included shampooing the rugs and was charged for a number of ridiculous fees including rug replacement… Full Review ▶
Quite possibly the worst apartment complex Ive ever stayed in. There was mold in the cabinets that was never addressed, the toilet seat wasn't even stable. The management at this complex is ridiculous and full of idiots trying to do something… Full Review ▶
Do not recommend this place. Stayed there for 2 yrs and suddenly increased price by 20% and that's not the only thing new management is worst, they try to take every penny from your pockets for various other reasons. Worst Worst… Full Review ▶
Mrs. Pauline was the associate that showed us the apartments. She went out of her way to come in while she was off to finish our contract with us. She was extremely knowledgeable about the apartments, very profession-able, and just a… Full Review ▶
Atlantic crossing is amazing. The only reason we moved was due to my husbands job. Utility's wernt bad especiially in summer. They've built the buildings very well. Mrs Pauline is amazing. We were driving around just looking at places. She showed… Full Review ▶
Atlantic Crossing at Deerwood Park was an excellent temporary form of apartment living for my family and I. We resided there during the time of March, 2010-May, 2012. Maintenance was always quick to respond and efficient. The property was well kept… Full Review ▶
A new management company took over about a year ago. They are unhelpful and rude.They are extremely "corporate" and treat the place like an over-priced college residence. They love to send out petty emails making threats to their residents. Also, be… Full Review ▶
We moved into the complex in March of 2010 and were so happy to be there. The floor plan was huge, the front office was wonderful always remembering who the residents were and their history. The only problem we had was… Full Review ▶
I agree with many of the other negative comments about the management team from MAA. They are charging us for the water that is used for the pool, common areas, car wash, etc... and this change in water billing is costing… Full Review ▶
Worst place I have ever lived, since the new management! Rebecca is awful, and Scott is plain rude. I have lived here since 2009 and before management changed, it was just fine and quite pleasant! Now, we have an office staff… Full Review ▶
Please do not be influenced by this inaccurate, poorly contrived review. I lived at Atlantic Crossing for two years and moved out year two (after new management took over) because of the heightened noise levels, piss poor management staff, as well… Full Review ▶
We currently live at Atlantic Crossing and we are counting the days until we can leave. When we first toured the property everyone was very pleasant, all smiles and courteous. Once you move in, it's like a light switch goes off.… Full Review ▶
Atlantic Crossing will attempt to Nickel and Dime you out of your deposit with fraudulent charges. None of which were 'legal' charges in accordance with Florida Statutes Section 83.49. My Final Accounting Charges they attempted to deduct from my Deposit looked… Full Review ▶
Plan on moving in this summer and wondering which building is the best to live in for privacy and safety? Also has anyone had any problems with safety on the ground floor apartments being that the community isn't gated? Also do… Full Review ▶
I've been living at AC for almost 2 years now. As mentioned in one of the reviews, it is a community mostly of young professionals, though there are a few families with young kids and some college students. To me the… Full Review ▶
Recently, Atlantic Crossing went through a management change. Unfortunately, this is at the expense of the residents here. For starters, the staff is not nearly as friendly and frankly, inept at following through. Furthermore, and I know full well I'm obligated… Full Review ▶
I have lived here for a few months now, although I have been in touch with the staff since I decided to move in this past summer. About a month before my move, my roommate and I had all of our… Full Review ▶
When my boyfriend, our son and I walked in to check out the place looking to move in end of the year the management was amazing. So friendly, gave us a great tour of the place. Everything looked wonderful and pleasing… Full Review ▶
If you're 20-30, this place is just fine. If you have kids, you probably need to look somewhere else. We lived here for a year and had absolutely no complaints. We got an apartment on the 3rd floor because prior experience… Full Review ▶
We have been here not even a year! You can hear everything from other apartments around you! Poor construction! From every aspect! They allow outside services to have master keys to enter your apartment without notice! You need to be on… Full Review ▶
We lived in Atlantic Crossing for a year and a half during our time in Jacksonville and have nothing bad to say about the place. The location is great, the apartments spacious and the nicest, most professional staff around. The staff… Full Review ▶
If you have young kid (family) do not even consider this place! This is a UNFRIENDLY FAMILY PLACE ESPICALLY IF YOU HAVE KIDS! No playground and stay away from the pool! Alot of drinking and smoking (not the legal stuff) going… Full Review ▶
I LOOOOOOOOOVE this place! I'm glad that I did not come here and base anything on what I'm reading on this site. Maybe many of you are disgruntled because you didn't qualify or make enough money to get in. I understand… Full Review ▶
I have been at Atlantic Crossing for awhile now. Now that they have new managerment inplace this is a fantastic place to live. All the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable and the apartments are very well kept. Any issues that… Full Review ▶
I worked directly behind Atlantic Crossing and long story short thought it was nice, got my tour, still liked it but still was undecided. The leasing agent told me that the apartment might be taken off the market if I didn't… Full Review ▶
I have beeen a resident of this community for almost a year. I have seen people come and go from this place, atleast 18 that I know of. Recently they just let go a wonderful employee who is the reason most… Full Review ▶
This is a beautiful place inside and out. The staff is very friendly and willing to go out of their way to help you. The people that live here are friendly too. The manager, Katie, is great and I have had… Full Review ▶
The apartment has a nice layout, but there are BIG cockroaches in here. It takes at least a week to get any maintentence done. The building is poorly built. The windows develop mold because they were not installed correctly. I can't… Full Review ▶
I was when of the first ppl to move into these apartments and let me tell u as the other review stated it takes 4-ever for the maintinence to do anything and when they do its not to ur staisfaction. The… Full Review ▶
I like the actual apartment but the level of service from the office staff is lacking. Of course they were all smiles prior to lease signing but asking for something to be fixed i was told three times over three weeks… Full Review ▶
Laundry On-Site
Laundry in Units
Community Center
Controlled Access
Rent Trends
|Avg. Monthly Rent
|$ {{complexPricing.averageMonthlyRent}}
|$ {{complexPricing.minMonthlyRent}} - $ {{complexPricing.maxMonthlyRent}}
Disclaimer: Rental rates have been collected from Internet users and represent snapshots of a rental prices over time. These rates may not be a reliable indicator of current rents or the price offered to new residents. How to use this information.
Nearby Apartments
- 77%
Tattersall at Tapestry Park9734 Tapestry Park Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32246 97 Reviews
- 0%
Bell Deerwood Park4435 East Touchton Road, Jacksonville, FL 32246 0 Reviews
- 47%
Fifty-Four Magnolia-Deerwood9800 Touchton Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 47 Reviews


text:
Chilled Cherry Soup
8 Apr 2009
This chilled Cherry Soup is so very soothing after a heavy dinner! This chilled Cherry soup is a perfect dessert for the weight watcher! Try it out and tell me if you agree with me!
|Frozen pitted cherries
|20 Large (No Sugar Added)
|1⁄2 Cup (8 tbs)
|Granulated sugar
|1 1⁄2 Teaspoon
|Cinnamon stick
|2 Inch
|Lemon peel
|Rose wine
|2 Tablespoon
|1 Teaspoon
|Plain low-fat yogurt
|1⁄4 Cup (4 tbs)
In small saucepan combine cherries, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Remove and discard cinnamon stick and lemon peel from cherry mixture.
In measuring cup or small bowl combine wine and cornstarch, stirring to dissolve cornstarch; add to cherry mixture and, stirring constantly, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer until mixture thickens.
In heatproof bowl stir yogurt until smooth; add cherry mixture and stir to combine.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until well chilled.
Recipe Summary
Difficulty Level:Easy
Course:Appetizer, Fruit Dessert
Rate It
0 Comments
Chilled Cherry Soup Recipe