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A computer accessory is disclosed that includes a module. The computer accessory comprises a module having an input port and an output port and a microprocessor circuit that generates an output signal in keyboard character code at the output port that is of selected correspondence to an input signal in keyboard character code received at the input port. Coupling components enable insertion of the module in a data transmission path between a selected keyboard and an associated computer system.
1. A computer accessory for coupling to an associated computer system having an input device, and for receiving input signals in a print code from a separate source, comprising:
a module having a computer input port, a source input port and an output port;
circuit means for generating selectively an output signal in keyboard character code at said output port, said output signal corresponding to an input signal in print code received from the separate source at said source input port or corresponding alternatively to a computer input signal received from the input device;
means for converting said input signal in print code to said output signal in keyboard code;
coupling means for enabling connection of said module in a data transmission path between the input device and said associated computer system, the input device being coupled to said computer input port, said coupling means for enabling alternatively said computer input device to send computer input signals through said accessory via said path to said output port;
said coupling means for enabling alternatively converted input signals to be sent via said path to said output port;
memory means responsive to computer input signals from said computer input device for storing a copy of said computer input signals therein as said input signals are being supplied to said output port; and
memory read-out means for supplying subsequently the stored copy of said computer input signals from said memory means via said data transmission path to said output port.
2. A device as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
said input device being a keyboard;
keyboard coupling means for coupling a keyboard signal from the keyboard to the input port; and
computer coupling means for coupling the output signal from the output port to a selected computer input port.
3. A device as recited in claim 2, further comprising:
keyboard connector means for enabling connection of a selected keyboard cable plug to the module; and
computer connector means for enabling connection of the module to a selected computer system in place of the keyboard cable plug.
4. A device as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
said circuit means for generating said output signal in keyboard character code that is of correspondence to input signals in ASCII code received from the separate source at said source input port.
5. A device as recited in claim 4, further comprising:
second input coupling means for coupling a second input signal in ASCII code from a selected source to the second input port.
6. A device as recited in claim 5, further comprising:
second input connector means for enabling connection of a selected printer cable to the module.
7. A device as recited in claim 4, further comprising:
a third input port; and
third circuit means for generating a third output signal in keyboard character code that is of selected correspondence to a third input signal in Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code received from a separate source at the third input port.
8. A device as recited in claim 7, further comprising:
third input coupling means for coupling a third input signal in Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code from a selected source to the third input port.
9. A device as recited in claim 8, further comprising:
third input connector means for enabling connection of a selected miniature phono plug to the module.
10. A device as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuit means comprises:
micro-computer circuit means coupled to the input port for sensing a predetermined input keystroke pattern and generating a corresponding output keystroke pattern.
11. A device as recited in claim 1, wherein said circuit means further comprises:
direct coupling means for selectively coupling an input signal received at one of said input ports to the output port; and
disabling means for selectively disabling the direct coupling means to enable transmission of said output signal to said output port.
12. A device as recited in claim 10, further comprising:
programming means for enabling the generation of an output keystroke pattern of desired correspondence to an input signal in keyboard character code.
13. A device as recited in claim 10, further comprising:
programming means for enabling the generation of an output keystroke pattern of desired correspondence to an input signal in ASCII code.
14. A device as recited in claim 10, further comprising:
programming means for enabling the generation of an output keystroke pattern of desired correspondence to an input signal in Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code.
15. A device as recited in claim 1, wherein said input signal is an on/off signal.
16. A device as recited in claim 1, wherein said input signal is an on/off signal.
17. A device as recited in claim 8, wherein said input signal is an on/off signal.
18. A device as recited in claim 9, wherein said input signal is an on/off signal.
This invention relates generally to a multi-purpose computer utility arrangement, and it more particularly relates to a programmable keyboard character code generating arrangement, which may be coupled between a keyboard and an associated computer system to provide a variety of utility functions.
The advance of computer technology has placed very powerful, compact, keyboard equipped central processing units within reach of us all. As we take our place in front of one of these keyboard driven computers and start typing in data and commands, all sorts of new uses and desirable time saving features come to mind, ideas that have previously required expensive system modifications or additions to implement.
For example, when entering data or commands to a central processing unit, it is often necessary to repeat a pattern of keystrokes that has already been entered. This may be required, for instance, to initialize a program, to set default settings in a word processing program, or to perform some other often repeated function. The tedious process of performing such keyboard functions is simplified in some systems by providing a utility program that can be called by striking a designated combination of keys. Once called, the utility program generates the desired keystroke pattern without further operator assistance.
Although this technique may be satisfactory for many applications, it suffers from certain drawbacks. For example, in some systems, there is insufficient hardware or software capability to support the utility programs so that expensive memory or software must be added to the central processing unit. This may mean using one of the limited number expansion slots available, and the use of such for a utility program may not be desirable. Alternatively, expensive peripheral memory devices must be employed, and doing this may mean not only increased cost, but also the elimination of some other desired function. Sometimes the utlity program resides in the computer random access memory (RAM), which is generally unavailable or undesirable for such use. Moreover, in some applications, the entire keyboard is required by the operating system or application software, so that no keys are available for calling the utility program.
Consequently, as it is desirable to have a convenient utility arrangement which could either be an original equipment installation, or could be conveniently connected into an existing computer as an accessory. As an accessory, it would not require the use of an expansion slot nor require system modification or altered software. However, it would nevertheless operate under keyboard control to provide a selected keystroke pattern without taking up additional central processing unit memory and without being limited in those cases where the whole keyboard is in use.
A related example of increased functionality often desired in keyboard driven systems, is where operating systems and applications prompt the operator to enter the time and date when the program is first initialized. The task of entering the appropriate data often becomes a tedious one that the operator desires to avoid, and entry of the correct time and date is either purposely overlooked or begrudgingly done.
Such an utility arrangement should facilitate the entry of the time and date into the system in response to the system prompt. Even though some computer systems employ real time clocks, they are not always compatible with the software being used so that the job must nevertheless be done by the operator. Consequently, it is desirable to have such an arrangement which functions to provide the correct time and date with a minimum of operator attention or effort required.
Yet another example of functionality that is often desired in an existing computer system, is related to the inability of some handicapped and disabled operators to easily manipulate a keyboard. Such operators can often do little more physically than to manipulate a single switch with a paddle placed in their mouth or with some other movable body member. Special computers with complex software are required, and such costly equipment is thus not widely used. If there were some way that an existing conventional keyboard driven computer system could be operated with a single switch placed near such an operator, it would enable far more handicapped people to use a computer, especially if the utility arrangement were relatively inexpensive to manufacture. So, in these cases, it is desirable to have such a utility arrangement, which would also enable the entry of data and commands to an existing computer system by the manipulation of a single switch advantageously placed near the operator.
As yet another example of a utility procedure frequently required by computer users, consider the incompatibility of two word processing programs. Files created on one can often be used with the other only after first converting the files into the proper format. In some instances conversion programs simply do not exist. They would be expensive and require continuous updating to allow for changes made to word processing programs. As a result, there is no convenient way available to inexpensively transfer files between incompatible word processing programs. The file usually has to be recreated, resulting in the expenditure of unwanted time, and in operator frustration.
Therefore, it would be highly desirable for such a utility arrangement also to enable the use of files or other data created with an otherwise incompatible program. Consequently, it is desirable to have such an arrangement which would also enable data created in one format to be inputted conveniently into a system using otherwise incompatible software.
In addition to all of the above, it is important to be able to provide such a new and improved multi-purpose utility arrangement, to facilitate all of the foregoing functions, without modifying the software or hardware of an existing computer system, and without using limited expansion capabilities thereof. Consequently, it is desirable to have an either such an original equipment utility arrangement, or such a utility arrangement in the form of inexpensive, plug compatible device which is attachable to an existing computer system without the need for hardware or software modification or use of preplanned system expansion features.
Therefore, the principal object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved multi-purpose computer utility arrangement for providing the desired additional utility functions for a new or existing keyboard driven computer system, without hardware or software modification and without using expansion slots or other preplanned means of system expansion.
Another object of the present invention is to provide such a new and improved utility arrangement, which can also be used for enabling the use of otherwise incompatible files or data, and which facilitates greatly the use of existing computer systems by handicapped people by the utilization of relatively inexpensive to manufacture equipment.
Briefly, the above and further objects of the present invention are realized by providing a multi-purpose computer utility arrangement, which may form a portion of a data transmission path between a selected keyboard and the associated computer system.
The multi-purpose utility arrangement includes a module having an input port and an output port. The module includes a microprocessor circuit for generating an output signal in keyboard character code at the output port. The keyboard character code corresponds to an input signal received at the input port.
Thus, when the arrangement is used as an accessory item for an existing computer system, the module is coupled between an existing keyboard and an existing central processing unit in which the keyboard is otherwise connected. In this manner, the arrangement can be easily and externally attached to the computer system. By suitably programming the microprocessor circuit, the existing keyboard can be used to command the microprocessor unit to output selected keyboard character code, including such code representative of keystroke patterns following the input keystroke pattern, as well as other keystroke patterns.
In one form of the invention, a real time clock and appropriate programming causes the generation of the keyboard character code necessary to enter the correct time and date, when prompted to do so. Such is accomplished with very little operator intervention.
In another form of the invention, a second input port is provided for receiving a second input signal in print code, such as standard ASCII print code. A second circuit generates an output signal in keyboard character code for the computer processor unit, corresponding to the ASCII code. Thus, a printer cable connected from a source of ASCII code can be connected to the second input port to supply data formatted by one program, such as a word processing program. Suitable programming in the microprocessor develops an output keyboard code suitable for causing another word processing program to generate a corresponding file in its own format. Thus, the standard ASCII print code of one program is converted automatically to keyboard character code for inputting to another program, which may be of a different format from the first program.
Yet another form of the same invention relates to a third input port for receiving a third input signal in Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code. A third circuit generates an output signal in keyboard character code indicative of Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code. A single switching device can be used by a handicapped or otherwise disabled operator, to input Morse code. Suitable programming of the arrangement is used to develop corresponding output keyboard characters for coupling to the central processing unit in place of the keyboard signals generated by a conventional keyboard.
Thus, without modifying the existing computer system or using limited system expansion features, this invention can provide an accessory capable of the foregoing added functionality desired. Furthermore, the multi-purpose utility arrangement of the present invention may be programmed to perform many other functions such as functioning as a keystroke recorder, as well as others. All of the foregoing features are performed by such an arrangement, which is relatively inexpensive.
The above-mentioned and other objects and features of this invention and the manner of attaining them will become apparent, and the invention itself will be best understood, by reference to the following description of an embodiment of the invention taken into conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1. is a pictorial, partly schematic view of a multi-purpose computer utility arrangement constructed in accordance with the invention, with the arrangement being in the form of an accessory shown coupled between an existing keyboard and the associated computer system;
FIG. 2 is a schematic circuit diagram of the arrangement of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a pictorial view of an another multipurpose computer utility arrangement, which is also constructed according to the present invention, and which receives ASCII print code from a second computer output terminal for enabling the usage of otherwise incompatible data, and receives Morse code or from a separate operator controlled switch;
FIG. 4 is a symbolic block diagram, illustrating the flow of data between the components of FIG. 3; and
FIG. 5 is a schematic circuit diagram of the arrangement FIG. 3.
Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1 thereof, there is shown a multi-purpose computer utility arrangement 10, which is constructed in accordance with the present invention. The arrangement 10 is in the form of an accessory item. However, it is to be understood that the arrangement 10 can also be employed as a factory installed arrangement for new systems.
The arrangement 10 generally comprises a module 11 having an input port connector 12 and an output port connector 13. A conventional keyboard 14 of a personal computer (PC) is connected via cable 15 and keyboard connector plug 16, to the input port 12. An output port 13 is connected to a central processing unit 17 of the computer PC, by cable 18, which has a plug 19 interengaging with the back panel keyboard socket 20 in place of a direct connection from the keyboard. The computer PC, may be a conventional personal computer, such as the model sold under the tradename "IBM PC" by IBM Corporation of New York.
Thus, the module 11 serves as a portion of a data transmission path between the keyboard 14 and the central processing unit 17. In this position, the module can be suitably programmed and controlled by commands entered with the keyboard, to output keyboard character code to the central processing unit 17 to emulate the keyboard character code generated by the keyboard itself. By generating keyboard character code, a vast variety of functions can be performed by the arrangement 10.
A selected keyboard character code can be generated by the arrangement 10, and such code exactly corresponds to a selected string of keystrokes (keystroke pattern) on the keyboard 14, caused by an operator continually pressing a selected key or keys on the keyboard. In one mode of operation, the arrangement 10 can be designed and programmed to output keyboard character code that is the same as that generated by the keyboard. In another mode, the arrangement 10 can be designed and programmed in conjunction with a real time clock to enter the correct time and date in response to an operator depressing a selected key or combination of keys (e.g., depressing the "space bar" twice), on the keyboard.
These, and other functions performable by the entry of the appropriate keystroke pattern can be accomplished readily. For example, some computer systems keep daily backups of working files. To be perfectly backed up, the changes to the files should be recorded and saved until the disk backup operation can be performed. By adding a large memory system (e.g., 256 Kilobytes), not shown, to the module 11, all keyboard entries to a program can be stored by the module. If there is a catastrophic system failure, such as a power outage, the system can be repowered, and the keystrokes can be "played back" into the system automatically by the arrangement 10. In this manner, the computer processor unit responds to the code generated by the module 11, as if the operator has retyped exactly what was entered into the computer PC earlier (and subsequently lost).
Some software programs allow the user to perform a "macro" function, whereby an arbitrary sequence of keystrokes are generated by a single function key. Then, when the function key is pressed, the string is "sent" to the program. For example, a particular sequence of keystrokes might set up the document format for a word processing program. The module 11 enables the user to perform this function for any program, including those which have not provided a macro function. The user first causes the module to enter a "learn" mode, and then types the desired sequence of keys from the keyboard. The user then assigns the key sequence to a single key or keys. The module is then placed into an "operate" mode, and whenever it detects the depression of the assigned key or keys, it would send the predefined keyboard code corresponding to the series of keystrokes.
The module can be programmed for security in advance to make the electrical connection between the output of the module and computer only when a predefined sequence of keys is typed at the keyboard. That is, keyboard character code would be generated by the module 11 for transmission to the central processing unit, only if the right code is first entered with the keyboard. Without the predefined sequence of keys being depressed, the keyboard remains disconnected from the computer in the sense that keyboard character code the keyboard to the module results in no keyboard character code being coupled to the central processing unit. Consequently, the computer is inoperable unless and until a preassigned access code is entered by the keyboard being operated by an authorized user.
Many computer users are concerned about the placement of keys on their keyboard. If it is desired to move a key from one position to another, the module can intercept the codes of the moved keys and translate the codes to reflect the new key positions.
Referring now to FIG. 2, the module 11 circuit couples control and signal lines 19 received from the keyboard 14 (FIG. 1) at the input port 12 to corresponding control and signal lines 21 at the output port 13 for connection to the central processing unit 17 (FIG. 1). Sensing circuitry senses the DATA and CLOCK signal supplied from the keyboard and couples it to a micro-computer circuit 80. The micro-computer circuit 80, in turn, either activates a transmission gating circuit 60 so that the signals from the keyboard are passed directly to the output port, or it deactivates the gating circuit 60 and supplies, instead, newly generated character code to the output port 13.
Power supplied from the central processing unit 17 (FIG. 1) to the keyboard 14, is also supplied to the module 11 for powering it and a backup battery power supply is included to enable the micro-computer 80 to continue providing a real time clock function, even though the central processor power is disconnected or turned off.
Considering first the coupling between the input port and output port, FIG. 2 shows the five lines 19 received at the input port from the keyboard 14 (FIG. 1). These are the usual five lines employed by conventional keyboards. They include a CLOCK signal line, DATA signal line, and a RESET signal line, along with a FIVE-VOLT power line and a GROUND line. The RESET signal is coupled directly from the input port 12 to the output port 13. The FIVE-VOLT line and the GROUND line are also coupled directly from the input port to the output port. The GROUND line is connected as module ground, and the FIVE-VOLT line is tapped for module power.
The CLOCK and DATA signal lines are coupled through the transmission gating circuit 60, so that they can be decoupled when desired in order to enable coupling of a keyboard character code, generated by the micro-computer, for supplying it to the microprocessor unit.
A flip-flop component 70 (Motorola 74HC107 or equivalent) includes two conventional JK flip-flops 71 and 72. The CLOCK signal is supplied to the clock inputs of the two flip-flops, the K inputs are grounded, and the DATA signal is supplied to the J input of flip-flop 71. The FIVE-VOLT signal is connected to the J input of flip-flop 72. The Q output of flip-flop 71 is coupled to the micro-computer 80 as its input terminal 22, as a data input and the Q output of the flip-flop 72 is connected to the input terminal 2 of the micro-computer. Finally, the RESET input of both flip-flops are connected to a micro-computer terminal 15 to enable resetting the flip-flops under computer control.
Micro-computer 80 receives the DATA and CLOCK signals from flip-flops 71 and 72, and according to the keystroke pattern represented by the data, either to cause the gating circuit 60 to supply the input signals from the keyboard to the output port 21, or to cause the gating circuit to interrupt temporarily the transmission path between the keyboard 14 and the processor unit 17. Thus, in the latter situation, the micro-computer 80 causes desired keyboard character code to be supplied to the output port 21. In this manner, the various foregoing mentioned functions may be implemented.
Crystal 81 provides the microcomputer 80 clock function, and it is connected across terminals 4 and 5 of micro-computer 80. A pair of capacitors 82 and 83 are also connected between ground and the respective terminals 4 and 5.
Line 84 from terminal 16 of the micro-computer to gating circuit 60 selectively activates or de-activates the gating circuit. When activated, the gating circuit passes the signals received at the input port 12 from the keyboard to the output port 21. When de-activated, the gating circuit de-couples the signals and enables micro-computer 80 to couple its own generated data and clock signals via lines 85 and 86 to the output port 21.
The module 11 is powered by the FIVE-VOLT signal received at the output port through diode 91. Thus, the arrangement 10 does not need to be separately powered. The circuit also includes a 6-volt battery 92, one terminal of which is grounded and the other terminal which is coupled through diode 93 to a point 94, for powering the module 11. Point 94 is also connected through current-limiting resistor 95 to gating circuit 60 to maintain the component 60 in an active state, until deactivated by micro-computer 80.
The micro-computer 80 is a well known design with standard microprocessor features including one K (one thousand bytes) of ROM, 64 bytes of RAM, 20 I/0 lines and built in crystal oscillator, timer, and interrupt system. It is fabricated with CMOS Technology, making it well suited to the battery powered time keeping application. The Motorola MC146805F2 micro-computer is fully described in tw Motorola semi-conductor publications; "Single-Chip Mcrocomputer Data", Publication No. DL132R1, 1984 Edition, pages 3-910 through 3-934, and "M6805 HMOS/M146805 CMOS Family Microcomputer/Microprocessor User's Manual", Publication No. M6805UM (AD2), 1983 Edition.
Transmission gate 60 is of the standard CMOS 4066 type. J-K flip-flop 71 uses the negative transition of the keyboard CLOCK signal to latch the keyboard data, before presenting it to micro-computer 80, and flip-flop 72 uses the negative transition of the keyboard CLOCK signal to provide a latched interrupt request signal to the micro-computer 80. The reset signal from pin 15 of micro-computer 80 clears both flip-flops, after the keyboard data has been accepted by the microcomputer.
In operation, the micro-computer sends time and date information to the output port, only under certain specific circumstances. Although it may be desired to send time and date information to the output port 13 when a selected keystroke pattern is received at the input port 12, time and date information is not sent each time that keystroke pattern is received. Many criteria may be used to determine when time and date information is sent. In one referred technique, there are two sequences of events to cause the micro-computer to send time and date keystroke patterns to the output port 13. In the first sequence, immediately after the system is turned on, if the first key struck by the user is the space bar (not shown) in response to the "enter new date" prompt, appearing on the screen of the unit 17, the micro-computer activates line 84 to disconnect the keyboard from the computer, and the data is sent in the correct format by transmitting the following sequence of keyboard character code to the output port:
<bs>mm-dd-yy <cr>
Where "<bs>" is the keyboard signal for the backspace key, "mm" is the keyboard signal for the two digit month, "dd" is the keyboard signal for the two digit day, "yy" is the keyboard signal for the two digit year, and "<cr>" is the keyboard signal for the carriage return key.
The backspace signal is sent to cancel the effect of the space bar being pressed. Without it, the central processing unit would otherwise receive the date information preceded by a space character, which would not be considered a valid date.
Once this sequence has been sent from the module via the central processing unit 17 and the output port 13, the micro-computer activates control line 84 to re-connect the keyboard to the processor unit. In this regard, lines 1 and 2 are re-connected to re-establish the data transmission path between the input port and the output port.
If the next key pressed is the space bar (in response to the "enter new time" prompt), the micro-computer again activates the switch line 84 to disconnect the keyboard from the unit 17, and sends the following sequence of keycodes:
<bs>hh-mm-ss <cr>
Again, the backspace is used to negate the effect of the space bar. The symbol "hh" represents the hours, "mm" the minutes, and "ss" the seconds of the correct time.
After this sequence is sent, gating circuit 60 is again activated to reconnect the keyboard 14 to the unit 17.
In the second sequence, it is possible, when using Disk Operating System software on certain central processing units, to set the time and date by typing the commands "time" or "date", and then typing the correct time or date numbers. The module 11 thus also sends time and date information when it detects the following sequences:
1. The user has typed "time <cr> <sp>". In this case the time is sent as described previously.
2. The user has typed "date <cr> <sp>". In this case the date is sent as described previously.
The time and date are stored in the micro-computer by means of a time keeping program. Alternatively, various integrated circuits are available for the purpose of time keeping.
A requirement of any time/date clock is to be able to set a particular time and date. This is accomplished in this design in a manner which is natural to many personal computer users. The user simply performs the steps necessary to set the time and date in the personal computer from the keyboard, and the module 11 sets its internal clock according to the values typed at the keyboard.
For example, if the user "time <cr>12:25:34 <cr>" while the Disk Operating System program is in use, the internal timer value inside the personal computer is set to 12:24:34. Since the micro-computer in the module reads the same keycodes from the keyboard that are sent to the computer, it can determine that a valid time has been set, and it can then set its internal clock accordingly.
Only the correct sequence of keystrokes and a valid time causes the micro-computer clock to be set.
In a similar manner, when a user types "date <cr>mm-dd-yy <cr>," the micro-computer in the module sets its internal "calendar" accordingly.
The program in the module's micro-computer checks time and date information for validity before allowing them to set its internal clock. For example, a time of "25:30" would not be allowed, nor would a date of "2-29-87" since 1987 is not a leap year. This error checking is not mandatory, but it improves the design and keeps it consistent with the goal of providing mistake tolerant, easy to use hardware.
Appendix A, which is incorporated herein by this reference, contains a software listing for this real time clock application. The syntax shown in the listing is compatible with the 6805 Assembler available from S-C Software, Dallas, Texas, and described in the manual "S-C Macro Assembler".
Turning now to FIG. 3, there is shown another multipurpose computer utility arrangement 100 constructed in accordance with the invention, with reference numerals being increased by 100 over reference numerals designating similar components for the arrangement 10 of FIG. 1.
The arrangement 100 includes a module 111 having an input port 112 and an output port 113. Input port 112 is connected to keyboard 114 by cable 115. The cable has a plug 116 which connects into the input port connector 112. Arrow 115A designates the flow of data from the keyboard to the module.
Output port connector 113 is connected to central processing unit 117 by cable 118 which includes a keyboard plug 119 that mates with the back panel keyboard connector 120 of the central processing unit. Arrow 118A shows the flow of data from the module to the central processing unit.
The arrangement 100 also includes a second input port connector 130 for facilitating the transfer of data files of one format from the unit 131 to the unit 117, storing programs of another format, so that the unit 117 can utilize the non-compatible data. This second input port connector is connected to a second central processing unit 131 by cable 132. The cable has a plug 133 that connects to the back panel printer input port connector 134 of the central processing unit 131. Arrow 132 shows the flow of print code data from the printer output port to the module.
The arrangement 100 also includes a third input port connector 140 for Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code data. This input port connector is connected to an external single-pole-single-throw switch 141 by cable 142. Cable 142 includes a standard miniature phono plug that plugs into the third output connector 140, and arrow 142 shows the flow of data from the switch 141 to the module.
Thus, the arrangement 100 has the structural components necessary to interconnect the module with the printer output port of a second central processing unit and external switch 141. These may in turn be used to input a second input signal in print code, such as standard ASCII code, from the second central processing unit or Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code from the external switch. And, additional circuitry and suitable programming converts these signals into keyboard character code suitable for inputting into the first central processing unit.
This provides a whole new level of added functionality. For example, arrangement 10 enables the transfer of text files between any two computers even though the file format may be otherwise incompatible. The module receives data from the printer output port of a sending computer in ASCII code, and translates this into keyboard character code representing a keystroke pattern suitable for entering the data in a second receiving computer through its keyboard input port.
Once the sending computer has been configured to perform a printout, the printer cable is disconnected from the printer, and plugged into the module. Or in those cases where the printer cable includes a ground strap that is screwed into the printer, it may be convenient to have a second cable that is dedicated for use in connecting the module to the back panel connector printer output port. In either case the module connects the second input port to the printer output port.
The receiving computer is then configured to accept keyboard data and store it in its memory, and later to disk. For example, the IBM PC computer is supplied with a standard program called EDLIN which accomplishes this function. Another technique is to run a word processing program on the receiving computer and thus prepare it for receiving and saving typed information from the keyboard.
By starting a printout on the remote computer, text files can then be transferred from the remote computer to the module, converted to the appropriate keystroke pattern, and entered in the receiving computer. In addition to this, the third input port enables the entry of data in Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code format. The external switch is activated to form desired Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code characters, is inputted to the third input port of the module by means of the software stored in the micro-computer 80, and is converted to corresponding keyboard character code representing a desired keystroke pattern. The character code is sent to the keyboard input port of the receiving computer, thus enabling handicapped or otherwise disabled operators greater freedom.
Although the arrangement 100 employs both a second and third input port, it is within the inventive concepts contemplated herein to employ either one or both of the second and third input ports.
Turning now to FIG. 4 there is shown a block diagram illustrating the data flow through the module 111. Keyboard 113 sends keyboard character code to the module, switch 131 sends Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code to the module, CPU 2 designated reference 121 sends ASCII code to the module, and the circuitry and related programming within the module transmits keyboard character code to CPU 1 designated reference 116 of selected correspondence to these input signals.
Thus, the module can form a portion of a data transmission path between a selected keyboard and an associated processor unit without otherwise modifying or adding to the computer system. Although in its illustrated form, the module accepts a keyboard plug, and in turn, connects to a keyboard plug input port on the back panel of a conventional personal computer processor unit 116, it is within the inventive concepts herein disclosed to otherwise couple the module to the keyboard and computer system. For example, in those systems where the keyboard is coupled to the computer system by infrared signals, the module can be provided with input port connector means (not shown) for receiving infra-red keyboard signals from the keyboard with the output port connector means for transmitting corresponding infra-red signals to the computer processor unit.
In addition to the convenient way this module can be added to an existing system and to the handy manner in which it can record and generate keyboard character code representing selected keystroke patterns, it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that additional input ports may be included with related circuitry and programming for receiving signals in ASCII code or Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code, and generating keyboard character code corresponding thereto.
Appendix B, which is incorporated herein by this reference, includes a listing of a computer program stored in the micro-computer. The program is suitable for transferring text files from a printer output port through the module into a keyboard input port. This program is stored in the memory of the micro-computer.
Considering now the utility arrangement 100 in greater detail with reference to FIG. 5, the arrangement 100 uses the same components and interconnections as shown in the arrangement 10 of FIG. 2, and in addition, it includes circuitry for coupling print code signals, such as ASCII print code signals, and Morse code or any other suitable "on-off" code signals to the micro-computer.
The utility arrangement 100 is generally similar to the arrangement 10 (FIG. 2), except for the components illustrated to the right of the micro-computer 180. Thus, only such components will now be described in greater detail.
Referring to FIG. 5, shift register 301, a flip-flop 303, and a set of inverters 306, 308 and 309, implement circuitry which appears to the computer 131 (FIG. 3) to be a printer interface port.
To send a character code to a printer, the computer places an ASCII character on the 8 Data lines, indicated at 312, and activates the negative pulse STB signal. This latches the data into the shift register via the LOAD input (pin 1), and also toggles the flip-flop 303, such that the BUSY line back to the computer becomes a high signal.
The computer reads the BUSY line, and delays sending the next character until this line returns to a low signal. This prevents sending data to the printer faster than the printer can receive it, and thus insures that characters are not lost.
The output signal from the flip-flop 303 also is routed to the "PB4" input of the microprocessor, where it is tested by the program for a LOW level. This indicates that a character is waiting in the shift register 301.
When this is detected, the microprocessor sends eight clock pulses from its output PB2, and reads the serial data which is clocked out of the shift register on input PB1. In this manner, it assembles an eight-bit byte and stores it in internal memory (not shown) of the microcomputer 180.
After the shift register has been read, the microprocessor sends a negative pulse from the PB3 output pin. This clears the flip-flop 303, thus setting BUSY LOW (indicating not busy), and also sends a negative pulse out through the inverters 308 and 309. This becomes the ACK pulse back to the computer, to acknowledge the receipt of the last character.
Some computers read the BUSY line for synchronization, some read the ACK pulse, and some read both. For this reason, both BUSY and ACK are implemented in the arrangement 100.
Various changes may be made in the form, construction, and arrangement of the procedures and parts described herein. For example, it will become apparent to those skilled in the art that the accessory of the present invention may employ an input port that can respond too on-off signals from various different types and kinds of input devices, including those disclosed herein, as well as bar code readers, and others. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without sacrificing any of its advantages, all matter herein is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in any limiting sense.
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The Square Kilometre Array had detected a tiny signature from 5 billion light years away that heralds great finds in the future.
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Indications of Normal Pituitary and Thyroid Function in Dwarf Beef Animals, Volumes 620-634
University of Missouri, College of Agriculture, Agricultural Experiment Station, 1957 - Beef cattle - 24 pages
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100 pounds body administered adrenal amounts of L-thyroxine Animal Sci beef calves ranged blood plasma butanol soluble calf chromatogram collecting iodine collection of iodine compared with normal Conversion Ratio daily thyrotropin secretion dairy cattle discharge of thyrotropin doses dwarf and normal dwarf animals dwarf beef animals dwarf beef calves dwarf beef cattle dwarf calves dwarf plasma dwarfism in beef five months four dwarf beef Function in Dwarf glands of dwarf graded amounts Hereford hypothyroidism inches k4 values L-thyroxine secretion rate level of thyroxine measurements of thyroidal mg./100 pounds body normal animals normal beef calves percent pituitary glands pounds body weight radioiodine range of thyroxine ranged from 0.4 rate of release Shorthorn symptoms technique thyro thyroid activity thyroid function thyroid gland thyroid hormone thyroidal I13 thyroidal uptake thyrotropin secretion rate thyroxine-like I13 tion total I13 triiodothyronine tropin uptake of I13 weight per day


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In this tutorial, the Masked Magician will give you some insight of how Gecko actually works.
The Explanation:
How to Make Gecko Gimmick:
Comments (32)
Authentic, but stupid as hell.
That really is the Gecko. i bought the Gecko about a year ago and was extremely disappointed with the general method, hook-up and applications. The Gecko really does operate as he is showing you. You need a constant supply of sticky "Tabs" to use in the Gecko and honestly, it's just not a good device.
if any of yall want to know where to get the gecko magic device, just go to revolutionmagic.com. i would suggest you to buy a magick device that costs a lot because the smaller magick devices that costs like $9 bucks are a rip off.
contact me if u think diffrent
it does work listen to this
well i know some people who think this is fake but it isnt because there are people on utube and other web sites showing this trick as if the maker would tell everyone to fake it and the reason why people dont realveal it cuz it costs 60 bucks which is a rip off if u want the gecko for cheaper look up "make anything dissapear" if anyone thinks i AM WRONG TELL ME!
Gecko Magic Device
I have no clue how the gecko magic trick is done. this one looks fake to me. almost fake enough for me to believe that asswipe in the mask. But when i see the REAL trailer of the gecko magic trick done by Jim Rosenbaum, i don't see any string slinging back to his coat, jacket, what ever you want to call it. plus the camera is like really close by the magician's side so i can easily tell that the trailer for the masked guy is fake. for people that want to know where you get the gecko magic device, its either revolutionmagic.com or ebay.com. either one. thanks
how to make gacko
if u want to know how to make gacko. Go and check www.exomagic.com. Run into the forum. Theres two ways to make the gacko.Sorry for my english.
read to know
thanks person who said go on ebay i found the gecko its a good item and i recommend it to all those people asking if its good
Hey guys, if you do know how to do the Gecko, I'm willing to make a tutorial on the Venus Trap by Chris Brown, the correct way and tips to do it. Pretty useful for many tricks. So if you do know the Gecko, I'll make a tutorial for you, and you make one for me? deal anyone?
read this please
can some one tell me what a gimmick is and what the difference between it and the gecko.
WHERE do i buy it please tell me a good place
where do i go to get the gecko i have been trying to find a place for about 2 weeks know and it would be really nice if some one could tell me to buy the gecko.
Geco Busted
Most of these vanishing gizmos are just some fabric elastic from hobbie store connected to the inside of your jacket with a safety pin and somthing to connect to the object you want to vanish (fishing wire, magnet, scution cup etc) they are a total con to buy you could make one in 10 miniutes. Ps if you use a magnet cover it with felt to disguise the sound
not the Gecko
the Gecko is a great utility device. The Masked A-Hole is not revealing the Gecko. He said Retractable Key ring and a suction cup. That isn't a Gecko.
is it worth 60$? .... and is it hard to use... what was that guy saying about the guitar pick?
tell us
please tell us would you want to spend 60 dollars for the geco and then not like it when you get it so please tell us or post it on you tube
u can get Gecko-(RM350) or Trantula-(rm350) from "Magic Club Malaysia".
pls help
i am from malaysia..can any one tell me where to buy the gecko trick and the tarantula..i need it..cant wait to get it..its awesome!!!!!!!!!!
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As of Tuesday, November 5, 2013
© Copyright 2015 Gwinnett Daily Post
Visit the Daily Post's 'Election Central' for complete coverage of the Nov. 5 elections, including complete city and county results.
BERKELEY LAKE — Berkeley Lake's incumbent for city council received the most votes during Tuesday's election, according to unofficial results.
Scott R. Lee received 198 votes and will be joined on the council by Jack W. "Chip" McDaniel Jr., with 159 votes, and W. Rodney Hammond, with 152 votes, as the top three vote-getters.
"I'm delighted to hear," Hammond said when told of his win. "I look forward to this time of community service and I'm glad the suspense is over."
Rounding out the results, Pekka Ignatius received 132 votes and Jeffery Allen Morgan received 69 votes.
More like this story
- Community volunteers seek Berkeley Lake Council seats ( October 31, 2013 )
- Berkeley Lake councilmen take oaths of office ( January 16, 2014 )
- One Auburn incumbent unseated by challenger ( November 5, 2013 )
- Incumbents keep Duluth City Council seats ( December 3, 2013 )
- Riehm bests young challenger to keep Norcross council seat ( November 5, 2013 )


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5 Basic Lessons of Marketing (Or, How To Win Some)
By: Yvette for Fine Heart's Mindstream
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Nice blog. Thanks for sharing it was very creative yet simple. Sometime we forget the basics and get in more complicated things which makes things very difficult for us and the customer too.
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text: My 35/2 with the concave front element is the 35/2 FD SSC. I gave it a light treatment which must have gone on for eight months. This was done with a CFL lamp amd aluminum foil on the bottom. If I had a UV lamp it would have been faster. The color is almost completely clear. If I had to shoot something on color slide film where the exact color was critical I might switch to a 35/2 New FD. The FD SSC is extremely sharp. I have had lenses completely overhauled too. If you enjoy using the lens it's worthwhile.


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Originally written on NESN.com | Last updated 5/12/13
The ongoing feud between Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia seems to be getting thornier by the minute down in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., this weekend. Garcia blames Woods for an errant shot on the par-5 second hole. Garcia says Woods reached for a club as Garcia was still trying to shoot, which elicited a distracting cheer from the crowd. "I wouldn't say that he didn't see that I was ready," Garcia said. "But you do have a feel when the other guy is going to hit, and right as I was in the top of my backswing, I think he must have pulled like a 5-wood or a 3-wood and obviously everybody started screaming. "So that didn't help very much. But it was unfortunate because — I mean I might have hit it in there if nothing happens. You never know. But if I hit a good shot there and maybe make a birdie, it gets my day started in a bit of a different way." Garcia hooked his tee shot into trees. Woods claims the marshals told him Garcia had already shot. "Obviously, he doesn't know all the facts," Woods told ESPN.com. "The marshals told me he had already hit. I pulled the club and played my shot. Then I hear his comments afterward. Not really surprising that he's complaining about something." It seems Garcia didn't exactly buy Woods' excuse. "That's fine. At least I'm true to myself," Garcia said. "I know what I'm doing, and he can do whatever he wants." Garcia is happy that he's not paired with Woods in the fourth round of The Players Championship. "I'm not gonna lie, he's not my favorite guy to play with. He's not the nicest guy on tour," Garcia told Ryan Lavner of the Golf Channel. "Its good for both of us. We don't enjoy each other's company. Don't need a rocket engineer to figure that out." Check out Garcia blaming Woods for the hooked shot in the video below.
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"This is really important to be here," Lewan said. "I'm here to give back and help out my teammate."
More FreePress rubbish
The Freep's Mike Brudenell gives MSU the advantage in recruiting this year, because Dantonio's 2009 class is "Made in Michigan."
He goes on to describe how Dantonio recruits:
"He's filling his needs with kids who really want to play, know something about the history of the school and represent the region. "
It is logic like this why newspapers are struggling.
How does Brudenell know that UofM's players are any less hungry to play football or know anything less about their school's football history? A lot of out of state recruits say that they were a UofM fan growing up and thus would know traditions of the school. Michigan has a big time program and people outside of our state borders know many of the traditions and history behind the program. This isn't MSU. So 2 of 3 of his reasons have been debunked as pure assumptions with no evidence provided by him to back it up.
This only leaves his idea that MSU has a better class, because MSU has kids who represent the region.
Perhaps CMU has a better class than UofM too, since it has more in state kids that are hungry, know the history, and are homegrown. Maybe we could trade classes with CMU so we can compete against MSU!
Why should we care what states our players come from as long as we get some Michigan players when we need to? Should Rodriquez get the kids who fit his system or try and get a roster with a kid from every single one of the 83 counties in Michigan to best represent our lovely state? Ultimately, they all represent their school when they commit. How many of you were disappointed when a Wolverine from Ohio won the Heisman? My guess is only bitter rivals would answer that they were. Michigan is not a traditionally talent rich state, we may have to head out of state at times to get a championsip roster with our system.
He goes on to say:
"For me, it's quite simple. I'd rather watch a kid from Ypsi score a touchdown over someone from West Palm Beach. How about you?"
No, I would rather watch a UofM player score a touchdown than someone from another team. And perhaps UofM can score more touchdowns with getting the best talent for the system, regardless of what state they are from.
I wonder if this guy would applaud MSU when Daughtery got NCAA violations in order to entice southerners to come up north and play in the late 50's and early 60's.
Finally he is misleading about where the recruiting classes finished ranked nationally. He says: "Rivals.com ranks MSU's class of 2009 16th in the nation, while it rates U-M seventh. Tom Lemming (CBS College Sports) ranks U-M 10th, while Tom Luginbill (Scouts Inc./ESPN) has MSU at the same spot." That implies that MSU is 10th in the ESPN's Luginbill's rankings. MSU is not ranked at all, he only ranks the top-25.
This illogical article isn't even suited for a high school newspaper. It would make as much sense for me to praise UofM's class as better than MSU's, merely because we bring in more out of state people to a state that has a declining population. Sure there can be benefits to recruiting your local area, but this guy fails to mention any.
Football recruiting classes and rank of Big10 teams for the last 6 years
We all know recruiting is a crap shoot, generally speaking. You're taking 17 & 18year old kids away from home for the first time, putting them amongst 1000's of other students they've never met, AND asking them to kick some ass against equal or better talent on the gridiron. And, oh yeah, don't forget to study or you'll be on a bus back to ____________. It's a lot to handle. But I digress.
I did some research to see if there's a correlation between a team's rank in recruiting and their on-field success.
Here's a re-cap of the last 6 years in the Big 10 (including 2009). Each team's national recruiting rank (per Rivals.com) is noted and their rank in the Big 10 is the order in which I've listed the teams. For 2008 and prior I've also noted their finish in the big 10 and their conference record. (NOTE: the national ranking has nothing really to do with my hypothesis but I didn't realize that until I had already typed the entire list up).
Ohio state - ranked 3 nationally
Michigan - 7th nationally
MSU - 16th
Penn St - 25th
Illinois - 32nd
Minnesota - 39th
Wisconsin - 43rd
Northwestern - 58th
Indiana - 59th
Iowa - 63rd
Purdue - 74th
Ohio St - 4th nationally(T1 in conference play at 7-1)
Michigan - 10th (10th in conference at 2 - 6)
Minnesota - 17th (6th at 3 - 5)
Illinois - 23rd (8th at 3-5)
Wisconsin - 41st (7th at 3-5)
Penn St- 43rd (T1 at 7-1)
MSU - 47th (3rd at 6-2)
Iowa - 53rd (4th at 5-3)
Purdue - 63rd (9th at 2-6)
Northwestern - 73rd (5th at 5-3)
Indiana - 78th (11th at 1-7)
Michigan - 12th nationally (finished 2nd at 6-2)
Ohio State - 15th (1st at 7 -1)
Illinois - 20th (3rd at 6-2)
Penn St. - 24th (5th at 4-4)
Iowa-28th (6th at 4-4)
Wisconsin-34th (4th at 5-3)
MSU-42nd (9th at 3-5)
Northwestern-53rd (10th at 3-5)
Minnesota-57th (11th at 0-8)
Purdue-59th (7th at 3-5)
Indiana-97th (8th at 3-5)
Penn St- 6th nationally (finished 4th at 5-3)
Ohio St-12th (1st at 8-0)
Michigan-13th (3rd at 7-1)
Illinois-30th (11th at 1-7)
MSU-33rd (10th at 1-7)
Iowa-4th (8th at 2-6)
Wisconsin-42nd (2nd at 7-1)
Purdue-50th (5th at 5-3)
Minnesota-62nd (6th at 3-5)
Northwestern-81st (9th at 2-6)
Indiana-84th (7th at 3-5)
Michigan-6th nationally (5th at 5-3)
Iowa-11th (4th at 5-3)
Ohio St.-12th (2nd at 7-1)
Penn St-25th (1st at 7-1)
Purdue-29th (8th at 3-5)
Wisconsin-33rd (3rd at 5-3)
MSU-35th (9th at 2-6)
Illinois-51st (11th at 0-8)
Northwestern-52nd (6th at 5-3)
Minnesota-55th (7th at 4-4)
Indiana-72nd (10th at 1-7)
Michigan-5th nationally (1st at 7-1)
Ohio St.-9th (6th at 4-4)
Penn St-14th (9th at 2-6)
MSU-16th (7th at 4-4)
Purdue-20th (5th at 4-4)
Iowa-38th (2nd at 7-1)
Wisconsin-39th (3rd at 6-2)
Illinois-50th (10th at 1-7)
Minnesota-58th (8th at 3-5)
Indiana-59th (11th at 1-7)
Northwestern-78th (4th at 5-3)
What does all this mean (other than I just stole 2 hours of the company's time)?
Ohio State finished with the best recruiting class in the Big 10 twice (08 and 09). They also finished first in the standing twice (07, 06--NOT including ties for first).
Penn State had the top recruiting class once (in 06) and finished first in conference play twice (08 and 05).
MICHIGAN has had the top recruiting class THREE TIMES (07, 05, and 04) yet only finished first in the conference once (04).
My theory is that a higher rank in recruiting does not always equate to success on the field.
I tried to quantify a teams recruiting class rank and their standing in the conference at the end of each season (finish 1st get 1 point. 2nd = 2, and so on). It's somewhat inaccurate because I didn't account for ties. This can be looked at two ways: if a team finished the season with the same record as another team but beat the other team head to head, they were awarded a 1st place finish while the defeated team was awarded 2nd (or a 2). However, if rings are all that matters, then Ohio State is gonna jump to the head of the class since they earned 4 of them over the last 4 years. Frankly, that doesn't sit well with me, so fuck em.
Unfortunately for us, Michigan takes somewhat of a beating: they have an average finish of 1.66 in recruiting within our conference (2,2,1,3,1,1 divided by 6 = 1.66) yet an average finish of 4.2 (10th,2,3,5,1)
Here's the entire list (recruiting avg/standing avg):
Mich 1.66/4.2
Penn St 3.66/4
Iowa 6.16/4.8
Ill 5.3/8.6
Wisc 6.3/3.8
Minn 7.6/7.6
Nthw 9.3/7.6
Purd 8/6.8
Ind 10.5/9.4
The best case scenario is to have a lower standings avg vs. your recruiting avg. Wisconsin faired best in this category by finishing with an avg recruiting rank of 6.3 but an average in standings of 3.8.
The worst finishers are Michigan, Illinois, and MSU. Shit!
There are a lot of factors when it comes to onfield success and converting 4 and 5 star recruits into champions. Coaching changes, injuries, early departures for the NFL. But, in my opinion, these numbers tell a story.
We have some work ahead of us, gentlemen (and ladies).
Flame away!
Priorites for the next few months
I really hope RR makes the following high on his priority list:
1. Find two guys who will return kicks and punts. Give them at least 500,000 reps. TEACH THEM THE BASICS. Tuck the damn ball on the correct side. Practice in cold weather. Practice when the wind is swirling. Teach them about an obscure concept called "Fair Catch". We cannot have a situation where the attitude is "Hey you look fast go return kicks for us". I am not saying this is happening now or happened last year, just make sure it doesn't happen ever.
2. Teaching good tackling technique. Easier said than done, but we really need to come up to at least D-1 levels on this. This has been a problem at UM for quite a few years(RE for all his "fire" couldn't teach tackling to save his life). Reply to all questions in press conference about defensive "schemes" with one standard retort: "Shut the hell up. When we learn how to tackle better than little girls, we will talk about schemes".
3. Have a conversation with Sheridan and explain to him that under NO circumstances should he take the field. If Tate gets injured, Denard gets injured, Threet gets injured, furrah gets injured.....even the Coner! gets injured, HE STILL HOLDS THE CLIPBOARD. Make it clear to him that we will snap the ball to Will Campbell in the wildcat formation before he even thinks of seeing the field.
4. Put some research into ritual sacrifices that will satisfy the Angry Michigan Hating God. You can prepare all you want, but if we have the kind of luck with injuries that we had last year, hello death...
Satan...I Mean Saban...Reveals The New Face of Recruiting
Over the past four years, Alabama has recruited 107 players to Michigan's 85. That's 22 more players - an entire class - over a four year period (using raw, unadjusted numbers from Rivals). On the heels of national criticism for signing 32 recruits and relying on "attrition" to shoehorn those 32 players onto campus, he unabashedly racks up 27 more including an astounding six on signing day of the four and five star variety:
Kenny Bell WR 6-1 160 - 5.8 Rayville, LA
Kendall Kelly WR 6-4 210 4.45 5.9 Gadsden, AL
Dre Kirkpatrick DB 6-2 180 4.5 6.1 Gadsden, AL
Eddie Lacy RB 5-11 210 4.4 5.9 Geismar, LA
Brandon Moore OL 6-4 313 5.2 5.8 Montgomery, AL
Tana Patrick LB 6-3 215 4.5 6.0 Stevenson, AL
Clearly, Oily Nick has a way of assuring new recruits that the depth chart isn't working against THEM. Look at the two stud WR signing today (and four in this class), despite Alabama having TWELVE underclassman WR on the roster, including ELEVEN freshmen and sophomores:
Wide Receiver
82 Earl Alexander WR So. 1V 6-5/216
11 Brandon Gibson WR Fr. RS 6-1/192
15 Darius Hanks WR So. HS 6-0/190
19 Chris Jackson WR Fr. HS 6-1/190
8 Julio Jones WR Fr. HS 6-4/210
4 Marquis Maze WR Fr. RS 5-9/167
80 Mike McCoy WR Jr. 2V 6-3/199
39 Kyle Pennington WR Fr. RS 5-11/170
1 B.J. Scott WR Fr. HS 5-11/188 Prichard, AL
48 Travis Sikes WR So. 1V 6-2/194 Nashville, TN
45 Sam Snider WR Fr. HS 5-10/163
43 A.J. Walker WR Fr. RS 6-1/185
Or how about seven more OL to go with those 15 underclassmen OL on the roster? Nothing like 22 OL competing for spots on the two deep with those that fall short developing bizarre illnesses and family problems.
Setting aside the coaching transition, what would Michigan have been like with a whole extra class? Three or four more LB to help that weak spot, alternatives to Sheridan, no positions of need such as DL...
Or how about Ohio State, who signed 80 players over that same period of time? How much better would they have been with 27 more players passing through the system?
This is not a level playing field. As long as this loophole exists, southern country club destinations will have a massive advantage over schools that actually regard these players as human beings rather than meat.
The time for limiting the number of recruits to the actual number of available scholarships is way overdue.
2009 Recruiting Breakdown and...an early look at 2010
Note: all ratings used will be via Rivals
Quarterback: With an unproven Steven Threet and walk-on Nick Sheridan as the only returning QB's with experience, this position was critical this year. Originally, Michigan took care of this with both Kevin Newsome (now at Penn State) and Shav'd Beaver (Tulsa???). However, the finished product is the accurate CA QB Tate Forcier (#5 dual threat), and FL ATH Denard Robinson (#14 ATH). Both QB's appear to have a high upside and can throw. Mission accomplished here. GRADE: A
Running Back: There was a moderate need here with Grady, Minor, and Brown all entering their last year. McGuffie and Horn were also victims of attrition. Ohio's Fitz Toussaint (#8 all-purpose back) was a solid pick-up and produced monster senior year. Michigan also picked up a couple of smaller, speedy type guys in MI RB Teric Jones and FL RB Vince Smith, the latter of whom will really need to hit the weight room hard. Decent class here. GRADE: B
Wide Receiver: There was a need for at least one slot guy in this class and that need was taken care of with FL ATH Jeremy Gallon (#11 ATH). Gallon will need to put on some weight and there are questions as to his eligibility, but he should be fine. Outside WR was also a pressing need with JR Hemmingway and Toney Clemons being unproven. Greg Matthews is more suited to be a #2 WR and is also a senior. MN WR Bryce McNeal seemed to fit the bill, but he defected to Clemson. DeWayne Peace also did not stick. However, on Signing Day, Michigan picked up big recruit in PA's Je'ron Stokes. Stokes defected from Tennessee after months of being committed there. MI WR Cam Gordon (#36 WR) provides depth or maybe another big body at LB. Solid class here. GRADE: B+
Offensive Line: Despite picking up six commits in 2008, it was still important to gain at least 2 or 3 more kids to help take care of depth issues. Michigan did this with AZ OT Taylor Lewan (#16 OT) and IL OT Michael Schofield (#18 OT). The day before signing day, Michigan also snatched up SC OG Quinton Washington (#8 OG) from under South Carolina's noses. A very nice class here. GRADE: A-
Defensive End: This position was, along with QB, the main priority in the 2009 class and Michigan didn't disappoint. AZ DE Craig Roh (#7 WDE) brings in some mad pass rushing skills/moves. NJ DE Anthony LaLota (#11 SDE) is another very athletic kid, but will need some fine-tuning as he is very raw. One more DE would have been nice (I'm thinking about you, Sam Montgomery), but with Brandon Graham staying for a senior year, two should be alright. GRADE: A
Defensive Tackle: MI DT William Campbell scared Michigan fans everywhere after de-committing, then removing Michigan from his short list. All this, after over a year of being committed, led to him...committing again at the Army All-American game. Campbell is a high level recruit (#5 DT) and is a five star, blue chipper. However, this class suffers from the loss of DeQuinta Jones and Pearlie Graves. A second DT could really have been used, as this is possibly the least deep position on the entire team now. The grade suffers some because of that. GRADE: C+ (THIS IS NOT AN INDICTMENT OF CAMPBELL, WHO I FEEL WILL BE AN AMAZING ASSET).
Line Backers: This position struggled during 2009. However, Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton were only sophomores. Here's hoping they get better. That being said, only half of last years four LB recruits are even still around. More LB's were needed. Jordan Barnes de-committed, perhaps because Rich Rodriguez softened on him. OH LB Isaiah Bell (#26 OLB) is a nice pick-up. FL LB Brandin Hawthorne (#35 OLB) is undersized and is a major project with a lot of athletic upside. FL S Mike Jones (#25 S) is also likely to be a LB in college. Mediocre group, but potential is there. GRADE: C+
Safeties: With Angry Michigan Safety Hating God looming around every corner, safeties are always in need. FL S Vlad Emilien (#14 S) is a good pick-up, but did suffer a major knee injury in high school. MI ATH Thomas Gordon provides depth here. However, he was a HS QB who will need to learn to play defense. He is a big player and could have some upside. Not a terrible class here, especially with OH DB Justin Turner expecting to play a little bit of safety as well. GRADE: B
Corner Backs: Speaking of Turner, for the third year in a row, Michigan was able to haul in an elite corner prospect. Turner (#3 S) could start off as the slot corner and may see time at both corner and safety, i.e. Marlin Jackson. Michigan also brings in FL CB Adrian Witty. Witty is the lowest rated prospect in this class and is recovering from a knee injury. At the very least, he provides depth, special teams player, a practice body, and brings another QB with him in Robinson. Turner makes this class. GRADE: A-
Kicker: With KC Lopata on his way out and Bryan Wright hurt, Anthony Fera committed to Michigan to fill the void at kicker. However, he left for Penn State. FL K Brendan Gibbons (#8 K) brings a big leg and fills the class need here. GRADE: B (I'd feel weird giving any higher grade to kickers here)
OVERALL: B+/A- I'm not sure which grade to give here. The class filled needs at QB and DE. More skill and speed was found. However, it could have used more LB and DT. All in all, I'll take this class.
WHAT IT MEANS FOR 2010: Obviously, DT and LB are the top priorities for next year. WR is taken care of, barring defections, as Ricardo Miller and Jeremy Jackson have pledged to Michigan. Here are the players M has offered so far:
QB: Devin Gardner, Christian Green, Robert Bolden. Keep an eye out for an offer to Je'ron Stokes' brother Malik as well.
RB: Corey Brown, Austin White, Brennan Clay (Tate's teammate)
WR: Chris Dunkley, Dejoshua Johnson (plus 2 committed WRs)
TE: CJ Fiedorowicz
OL: Seantral Henderson, Robert Crisp, Matt James
DT: Jay Guy
DE: Darryl Baldwin, William Gholston
LB: Austin Gray
S: Marvin Robinson
CB: Cullen Christian, Lo Wood, Dior Mathis (Cass Tech)
Here is a great link if you're interested in further exploring the 2010 class: http://www.umvarsityblue.com/2010/index.php
If you made it this far, thanks for reading. GO BLUE!!
Our class recruiting class is great. No its not.
In all the discussions on mgoblog concerning "where does our class rank?" I notice a common theme. People often disparage Scout's ranking, or ESPN's, or Tom Lemming's concerning our class, as being whack or wrong or stupid. i read very few criticisms of Rivals. But other than criticisms like "ESPN is evil" or "Scout is whack" or "Lemming over-rates Midwest talent" one thing I never read is any fact or evidence that proves those opinions. One guy on another thread said Todd McShay sucked and was terrible at this job, and supported it with the fact that ESPN had Campbell rated as the #21 OT. Ahem.
Now since as far as I can tell, Rivals is the only service (before today) that ranked our class top ten, it begs the question: are most people here hopeless homers that endorse a service (Rivals) that agrees with our prejudices? Or is there actual evidence that Rivals' past predictions are more accurate than Scout's or ESPN's or Lemming's?
It seems that the only rational response to a clear lack of evidence is to answer "it looks good" or "we think" rather than to be definitive on such an inexact science as recruiting projections. The sober response might be to say that I hope that Rivals is right and Scout is wrong. Or does this stance just prove I don't know what I'm talking about?
Breaking news: On ESPNU a guy from Scout's Inc. (ESPN's recruiting service, not the Scout website) said that the best pickup for the system on signing day was Michigan's pickup of Denard Robinson and Jeron Stokes. Still think ESPN sucks? Or are you reconsidering?
EDIT: Some posters have misunderstood the diary to either be an ad-hominem attack on homer posters, or that I somehow do not like this class. On the contrary, I do like it, and was actually 1- asking if there was actual evidence of one service or another being better or worse at predicting recruit's success, and 2- arguing that if there is not clear evidence, then if a service disagrees with Rivals lofty ranking we should at least acknowledge that others disagree without trashing the source.


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Originally written on WHYGAVS? | Last updated 4/24/13
I think it's important that the Pirates get a split in this four-game series in Philadelphia and since James McDonald is on the mound tomorrow, tonight might represent their best chance to do it. Wandy Rodriguez takes the mound for the Pirates and he's been excellent in the two full starts that he's made this year, throwing 13 total shutout innings at the Cubs and Braves, striking out 11, walking one, and giving up just three hits. He'll face Roy Halladay, who's had two awful starts and two good starts in 2013. With Halladay back on the mound, Pedro Alvarez is starting again. First pitch tonight is at 7:05.
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Clinical Social Workers in the United States take home an average $50K per year. Earnings sit near $38K on the lower side but can approach $75K per year on the higher side. Residence and years of experience each impact pay for this group, with the former having the largest influence. Medical benefits are awarded to a fair number, and the greater part earn dental coverage. The majority of Clinical Social Workers claim high levels of job satisfaction. This snapshot results from replies to PayScale's salary survey.
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The duties performed by a clinical social worker role are numerous and vary according to the particular setting in which they work. Overall, clinical social workers deliver therapy to individuals who are in need of mental or emotional support, as well as coordinate various other services to help meet individuals' needs. Clinical social workers' work environments vary widely depending on their employers; typical employers include hospitals, mental health clinics, residential nursing facilities, home healthcare companies, and substance abuse treatment centers.Read More...
The tasks that a clinical social worker performs throughout the day vary according to case load and setting. Often, the first encounter with a patient comes as the result of a social work referral from another professional or clinician. Initially, clinical social workers assess patients for psychological disorders, sometimes making a diagnosis. In addition, clinical social workers also typically analyze patients for difficulty in their daily lives. By combining both of these sets of information, clinical social workers formulate a treatment plan, often in conjunction with other clinicians. Clinical social workers give therapy to patients and refer them to additional supportive resources as needed.
Working as a clinical social worker generally requires a master's degree in social work, as well as appropriate state-specific licensing or certification. A number of skills are critical for working as a clinical social worker. These include empathy, excellent communication and organizational skills, effective time management, and the ability to work well under stress.
Clinical Social Workers report using a pretty varied skill set on the job. Most notably, skills in Clinical Supervision, Case Management, Psychotherapy, and Crisis intervention are correlated to pay that is above average. Skills that seem to negatively impact pay include Spanish Language, Group Therapy, and mental health. Counseling is a skill commonly found among those who know Case Management.
Median of all compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime) by years of experience.
For Clinical Social Workers, level of experience appears to be a somewhat less important part of the salary calculation — more experience does not correlate to noticeably higher pay. Relatively untried employees who have fewer than five years of experience earn around $47K on average. People who have worked for five to 10 years can expect a higher median salary of $52K. For Clinical Social Workers, 10 to 20 years of experience on the job amounts to an average salary of $56K. Clinical Social Workers who have acquired more than two decades of experience generally do see greater compensation; their average income is approximately $63K.
For Clinical Social Workers, working in the bustling city of Hartford has its advantages, including an above-average pay rate. Clinical Social Workers will also find cushy salaries in Washington (+24 percent), Seattle (+23 percent), Houston (+17 percent), and San Diego (+12 percent). In Detroit, salaries are 16 percent below the national average and represent the lowest-paying market. Workers in Columbus and Chicago earn salaries that trail the national average for those in this profession (16 percent less and 5 percent less, respectively).
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|Dental: 66%
|Vision: 51%
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Cotton no longer king in Louisiana
Kate Archer Kent
Jul 31, 2013 Southern farmers have largely turned away from planting cotton, because grain crops are more profitable.
Subsidies keep Texas cotton farmers growing
Scott Tong
Aug 17, 2012 The aid, which dates from the Great Depression, could end when Congress acts on the next farm bill. The World Trade Organization has ruled it's an illegal subsidy, and legislators are looking for budget items to slash.
Chinese demand for cotton could hit global prices
Jeremy Hobson
Interview by
Apr 30, 2012 According to the Wall Street Journal, cotton has become part of the fabric of life in China -- the country has bought over a million tons of the fluffy white stuff in the last seven months.
MID-DAY UPDATE: Sanofi-Aventis buys Genzyme, inflation is up for January
Katharine Crnko
Feb 16, 2011 French pharmaceutical company Sanofi-Aventis announced this morning that it will buy American biotech firm Genzyme -- bringing to end over six...
MID-DAY UPDATE: Google gives more and the G20 "bad guys"
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Nov 10, 2010 Good news -- new people filing for unemployment dropped to the lowest level since July. In judicial news, before the U.S. Supreme Court is a case...
MID-DAY UPDATE: Stocks are booming this morning...
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Sep 24, 2010 ... because US businesses ordered more manufactured goods last month. Nice to end the week on good news....
MID-DAY UPDATE -- Geithner: Fannie & Freddie can never be the same...
Bill Radke
Aug 17, 2010 ... So what SHOULD the government's role in housing be? Less defaulting, late pay on credit cards Americans cut back on routine medical care Cot...


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LOWELL, MA (July 18, 2008) – Sophomore Matt Lawlor (Dracut, MA) and freshmen Patrick Devlin (Tewksbury, MA) and Vincent DePierro (Tewksbury, MA), each former Merrimack Valley Conference standouts, highlighted UMass Lowell's 2008-09 incoming class, Head Coach Ken Harring announced Monday.
The class of 19 players – which includes 16 freshmen and three transfers – is the largest in Harring's tenure as he enters his fifth season at UML.
The River Hawks are fresh of a 26-24 season (18-12 in the Northeast-10 Conference, tied for fourth) which saw them go 23-12 following a 3-12 start. UML advanced to the NE-10 Tournament before suffering an early exit at the hands of Pace University.
Continue reading Harring Hails Largest Recruiting Class for 2009


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Best smartwatches to look forward to in 2015: Tag Heuer Carrera Wearable 01, Moto 360 2, Samsung Gear A and more1 June 2015
To hear watch without the word smart in front of it will soon be indicative of a heirloom description. Even luxury watch brands are embracing smartwatches with Baselworld 2015 revealing some of the latest additions, suggesting 2015 is clearly the year... >>
Gucci and will.i.am unveil fashionable smartband, look out Apple Watch19 March 2015
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Will.i.am - the rapper, tech entrepreneur, and a founding shareholder of Apple-owned Beats - has launched his very own wearable. It's called i.amPuls if you want to use the cringe worthy full name, Puls for short. The international star has long teased... >>
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Popstar and tech lover will.i.am has collaborated on a product that aims to turn your iPhone 4 or 4S into a high-end, fashion-concious camera. The will.i.am i.am+ foto.sosho accessory range will be launched through Selfridges, both in-store and online,... >>


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|Today's Open
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|$27.44 - $27.98
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|$27.04 - $33.67
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|$0.00 (4.3%)
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After BAE Systems Restructures, What Will Be Left?A billion-dollars-plus restructuring plan will leave a smaller business -- with a very big P/E.
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USMC Wants a New Tank, But Will This Idea Float?Four companies will try to build the Marines a new amphibious tank -- hopefully for less than $15.5 billion.
Raytheon Buys a Drone Maker: What's Up With Its Latest Acquisition?Raytheon builds drones like no other company in the drone-building business. And that's a good thing.
Drone Battle Over the Atlantic: 2 Military Contractors Face OffBut who is Northrop Grumman's new top-secret spy drone really aimed at?
Defense News: Pentagon Rushes Millions of Dollars' Worth of Weapons to IraqAnd millions of dollars for Iraqi weapons are just the start ...
Can Lockheed Martin Steal This $1.7 Billion Contract Away From Britain?BAE may have dropped the ball in Korea. Can Lockheed Martin pick it up -- and how much will investors profit if it does?
Textron Scorpion Fighter Jet: Will It Take the Fight to ISIS?A key U.S. ally in the Persian Gulf could become Textron's first customer for its new jet.
Latvia Expands Its Armored Forces by 4,100%--Watch Out RussiaIs it a case of too little, too late for Latvia -- or of "just in time" to save the defense industry?
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Style » Food/Drink
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Too Little Too Late: Whole Foods Apologies For Overcharging
Whole Foods Market is apologizing to its shoppers for incorrect pricing, a week after a New York investigation found that the natural food grocer routinely overcharged for prepackaged fruits, vegetables and deli meats.
What's That Funk? Truffle Dogs Sniff Out Pungent Fungus
The growing appetite for truffles is feeding demand for dogs trained to sniff out the pungent fungus prized by chefs and foodies.
McDonald's: The Evolution of the Happy Meal
McDonald's says fewer people are picking soda for Happy Meals after it stopped listing the drinks as an option on its menu boards.
High School Student Chefs Learn Lessons Beyond the Kitchen
Eighty New York City high school seniors found their passion in the kitchen instead of the classroom. After studying at Food and Finance High School, where 80 percent of students are considered "economically disadvantage," their future is heating up.
Whole Foods Accused of Overcharging
Whole Foods supermarkets have been routinely overcharging customers by overstating the weight of prepackaged meat, dairy and baked goods, New York City's consumer chief said Wednesday.
Supreme Court Says Raisins Rule
The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the government can't force raisin farmers to give up part of their annual crop for less than it's worth, a victory for conservative groups that hailed the decision as a win for private property rights.
Restaurants Scramble During Egg Shortage
Those who like to indulge in a good omelet or quiche at the local cafe should prepare to pay a little more - if it's even on the menu.
Dog Meat Festival Held in China Amid Outcries
Restaurateurs in a southern Chinese town held an annual dog meat festival Monday despite international criticism of the event as cruel and unhygienic.
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Things to see and do - Portugal and Madeira
Leaving for Madeira
Nearby hotels
Pousada Mosteiro do Crato – Small Luxury Hotels of the World from131 €Book
Varandas de Alter Hotel & SPA from40 €Book
Monte Filipe Hotel from69 €Book
Things to do nearby
Estoril Coast and Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon
- 58 €
- Book
Fatima and the Sanctuary Basilica Half Day Tour from Lisbon
- 55 €
- Book
- 85 €
- Book
Hotel Duas Nações :
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Nearby Restaurants
The Beautique H. Figueira
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Type de cuisine : Traditional
Cotation :
Type de cuisine : international
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Type de cuisine : modern
Hotel Duas Nações
Hotel Duas Nações
Address : Rua Da Vitória 41 P - 1100-618 Lisbon
from : 79 EURBook
Situated in the heart of old Lisbon, Duas Nações Residence combines traditional architecture with stylish furnishings. It features a sun terrace and a 24-hour front desk. Located at the corner of Rua Augusta with Rua da Vitória, 5 minutes' walk from Rossio Metro, the Duas Nações Residence offers rooms with a radio and satellite TV. Duas Nações Residence is a short walk from St. George's Castle, the quarter of Alfama and Mouraria as well as enjoying the riverside area of Lisbon with its famous night life. The hotel's front desk is open 24/7, and on-site car rental and babysitting services are available. Duas Nações Residence is 10 km from Lisbon International Airport.
Useful Information
- Address : Rua Da Vitória 41 P - 1100-618 Lisbon1100-618Lisbon
Main services
- Air conditioning
- Non-smoking rooms
- Internet
- Satellite TV