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An integrated diversity antenna solution is presented that positions multiple antennas within the digital device case. The integrated diversity antenna solution works equally well with diversity radios, such as 802.11, and non-diversity radios, such as Bluetooth. The non-diversity radios are supported via a power splitter attached to the antennas that give the necessary directional coverage. The integrated antenna array solves the main problem associated with wireless communication on laptop computers, specifically, that laptops perturb the radiation pattern because of the influence that laptop components have on standard antennas and the presence of interfering objects, most notably the laptop user, in the surrounding environment.
1. A method of spherical coverage using an antenna array integrated into a housing of a digital device, the antenna array comprising at least two antennas separated by the width of the digital device, the method comprising:
positioning the antennas in the antenna array within a wall forming the housing at various points around the digital device such that together the antenna array generates omnidirectional coverage in the azimuthal plane;
if the antenna array is electrically coupled to a diversity radio, receiving the strongest RF signal from the antenna in the antenna array configured for strongest link performance at the desired RF signal and sending signals using the antenna array; and
if the antenna array is electrically coupled to a non-diversity radio, transceiving signals with the antenna array via a power divider.
2. The method recited in
isolating the antenna ports of the antenna array using a power divider so that interference or impedance variation at one antenna will not degrade the performance of the other antennas.
3. A radio and antenna transceiver system electrically coupled to a digital device having a housing to enclose electronics, the transceiver system comprising:
a radio electrically coupled to the electronics on the digital device;
a power divider feed structure electrically coupled to the radio; and
at least two antennas electrically coupled to the power divider, the antennas generating omnidirectional radiation coverage, and wherein the antennas are substantially disposed within a wall forming the housing of the digital device.
4. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
5. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
6. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
a signal generated by the radio to be transmitted by the at least two antennas;
a power amplifier electrically coupled to the radio and the power divider feed structure, the power amplifier receiving the signal, increasing the signal strength, and transmitting the signal to the power divider feed structure; and
wherein the power divider feed structure generates new signals for each antenna from the received signal such that the new signals are the same as the signal generated by the radio.
7. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
8. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
9. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
10. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
11. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
12. The radio and antenna transceiver system as recited in
13. An antenna and wireless transceiver system integrated within a laptop having a case and a radio disposed within the laptop case, the case having a base and a lid, the system comprising:
at least two antennas integrated within a wall forming the case of the laptop, the antennas generating spherical radiation coverage; and
a power divider feed structure comprising a signal input interface coupled to the radio, isolated ports electrically connected to each antenna, a power divider, and a power amplifier.
14. The system as recited in
15. The system as recited in
16. The system as recited in
17. The system as recited in
18. The system as recited in 17, wherein the at least two patch antennas are overmolded.
19. The system as recited in 15, wherein the at least two patch antennas are captured within a plastic radome of the case.
20. The system as recited in 17, wherein the at least two patch antennas are captured within a plastic radome of the case.
1. The Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to antenna structures coupled to mobile electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention concerns integrated antennas for portable computers.
2. The Prior State of the Art
Various communication systems are used to allow computers to communicate and exchange data and other types of information. For example, various networks, including Local Area Networks (LAN), Internet, Ethernet and conventional telephone networks, often link computers. These known communication systems, however, usually require the computer to be physically connected to telephone lines, modems or specialized wiring. In some locations, however, it is difficult if not impossible to be physically connected to the communication system. Additionally, these known systems generally cannot be used if the user is traveling or moving to different locations, as is typically the case with a laptop computer.
It is also known to use wireless or cellular telephone systems to connect laptop computers to a communication system. One such application is WLAN, part of the latest technology craze attempting to integrate wireless communication onto portable electronic devices. Another particularly effective application allowing laptop computers to communicate are cellular telephone systems, because the computer does not have to be connected to an existing telephone line. In addition, cellular telephone systems are very useful in connection with portable computers because the cellular communication circuitry can be miniaturized and provided as a component of the computer.
Both of these wireless systems often require specialized antennas. Antenna structures, predominantly used for communication, efficiently transmit and receive electromagnetic energy in the form of radio waves. Antenna structures are used whenever it is impractical, or impossible to use a physical connection, such as a transmission line or wave-guide. In order to get the best performance out of the wireless antenna, the antenna must not be obstructed by anything within its path of radiation.
Antenna design attempts to achieve good impedance matching to the feeding transmission line so as to maximize the available power for radiation. Often the power levels are limited by transmission standards. For example "Bluetooth" wireless technology is a de facto standard, as well as a specification for small-form factor, low-cost, short-range radio links between laptops, phones, and other portable digital devices. One of the present Bluetooth specifications is to limit the transmission range to around 10meters. Bluetooth limits the transmission range by reducing the transmit power to the antenna, thus in order to conform with the Bluetooth standard the maximum available transmit power supplied to the antenna for radiation. Thus, while the antenna is designed to distribute the radiation optimally, it has a limited transmission range due to the supplied transmit power.
Antenna design also attempts to achieve the best compromise between the various constraints imposed on the desired radiation pattern. Optimization of the radiation pattern may include maximizing the radiation in one direction and suppressing it in others. If a specific desired radiation pattern is difficult or impossible to obtain using a single antenna, antenna engineers will often resort to designing arrays of simple antennas. Adjustment of the amplitude and phase of the feed voltages to the various elements in the array, as well as the geometrical arrangement of these elements, often achieves the desired radiation characteristics. Unfortunately, antenna array design is complicated by the mutual interaction between the various elements in the array and the operating environment of the array.
One example of a more difficult operating environment with multiple mutual interacting components that affect the desired radiation patterns is a laptop computer. Different brands of laptop computers use different shielding components for electromagnetic interference (EMI) that affect the antennas quite dramatically from one vendor to another. For example, some laptop computers use conductive materials or fillers, such as exotic conductive plastic material, that interfere with fully integrated antenna arrays in the laptop cases or housing bodies. Of course, the laptop display screen also presents a difficult shielding problem of the radiation pattern depending on where the antenna is located. Furthermore, a user is generally positioned in front of the laptop computer blocking a portion of the receiving area and obstructing the desired radiation pattern. Obstruction by the user is especially important with a low power wireless signal, such as Bluetooth, where signals are easy to block and absorb the radiation pattern.
Additionally, the present marketplace severely restricts the placement of integrated antenna structures on laptop computers due to performance, aesthetic, and reliability concerns. Most notable is the reluctance to place an extended integrated antenna on top of the laptop display screen, where the antenna would be virtually unobstructed out and away from everything. It is believed that this reluctance is due to concerns that the antenna structure would interfere with the LCD display. Another concern is that extended antenna structures are often bent, broken, knocked out of alignment or otherwise damaged. It is known that the repair and replacement of integrated antennas is difficult and costly. In fact, the entire attached display screen assembly is often removed and replaced instead of attempting to repair a portion of the integrated antenna or support structure. Thus, repair or replacement of the integrated antenna on top of the display screen is expensive and time consuming. As previously mentioned, even cellular systems require specialized antennas. Antennas used with cellular communication systems generally include a number of antenna elements, each including a radiating element, which is equal in length to some fraction of the wavelength to be transmitted or received. In order to increase the efficiency of communication, these known antennas must include elements that are separated by a minimum distance and these elements are preferably orientated normal to each other to provide the necessary separation and spatial diversity.
Conventional antennas used to connect a computer to a wireless communication system or cellular telephone is typically placed externally of the computer because of the noise, interference, obstruction and shielding caused by the various components of the computer. In particular, conventional antennas do not function correctly if they are obstructed or shielded by the housing or other structures of the computer.
Conventional antennas are also generally rigid and they protrude a relatively long distance from the body of the computer. These protruding antennas are often large, unwieldy, aesthetically unpleasing and they make the computer difficult to move and transport. In addition, these antennas are often bent, broken, knocked out of alignment or otherwise damaged because they can easily catch or strike foreign objects such as people, walls, doors, etc. Further, these known antennas require a large support structure to secure the antenna to the housing of the computer and this support structure requires a considerable amount of space inside the body of the computer. This space is very valuable, especially in small, portable computers. Additionally, the support structure is often damaged when the antenna is accidentally moved.
It is known that the repair and replacement of conventional antennas and the associated support structure is difficult and costly. In fact, the entire antenna assembly is often removed and replaced instead of attempting to repair a portion of the antenna or support structure. Thus, the repair and replacement of the antenna and/or antenna support structure is expensive and time consuming.
In order to alleviate these problems, known antennas are often removed before the computer is moved or transported. Additionally, known antennas must often be removed before the computer can be inserted into its carrying case. Disadvantageously, this requires additional time and resources to remove and reattach the antenna each time the computer is moved. Additionally, the antenna is often misplaced, lost or damaged when it is detached from the computer. Further, because the user often does not want to take the time and effort to remove the antenna, the computer is moved with the antenna still attached to the computer and this frequently results in the antenna being damaged or broken.
It is known to use a telescoping antenna in an attempt to minimize these problems. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,684,672 issued to Karidis, et al. discloses a laptop computer with an integrated multi-mode antenna. The telescoping antenna is integrated into the cover or display portion of the laptop and it outwardly extends from the display portion for use. The telescoping antenna is then retracted into the display portion when it is not in use. A coaxial cable connects the antenna to the base of the computer. In particular, the coaxial cable connects the antenna to a radio frequency (RF) adaptor card inserted into a Personal Computer Memory Card International Adapter (PCMCIA) slot in the base of the computer. Disadvantageously, the coaxial cable or connector disclosed in the Karidis patent protrudes outwardly from the base of the computer and the user must manually extend and retract the antenna. Additionally, it is well known that an antenna should usually be placed in a vertical position to obtain the optimum signal strength. This is because the antenna is most often located just above a conducting horizontal plane such as a metal desktop which acts as a reflecting ground plane that attenuates horizontal components of the electromagnetic wave. However, because the antenna disclosed in the Karidis patent is attached to the display portion of the computer and the antenna is positioned parallel to the display screen, the display screen must be vertically positioned in order for the antenna to obtain the best possible signal. The vertical positioning of the screen, however, may not be the preferred viewing angle of the screen for the computer user. Further, this and other conventional antennas have limited connectivity when the display screen is in the closed position because the antenna extends in a horizontal plane and the housing of the computer may obstruct or shield the antenna.
It is also known to connect an antenna directly to a PCMCIA card. When this type of card is inserted into the PCMCIA slot in the body of the computer, the antenna extends outwardly from the body of the computer. The PCMCIA card and the computer itself, however, are easily damaged by accidental contact with the outwardly extending antenna. Thus, users of PCMCIA cards with antennas must be extremely careful when using the computer in order to avoid damage to the card and/or computer. Additionally, these PCMCIA cards with antennas generally must be removed from the PCMCIA slot in the computer whenever it is desired to store or move the computer. This requires additional time and effort by the user, and the PCMCIA card and antenna may be lost, damaged or misplaced by the user when it is not connected to the computer.
In addition, the PCMCIA card with the attached antenna often receives a degraded or impaired signal because the antenna is frequently obstructed by the computer housing and/or shadowed by the ground plane of the display. Further, the antennas of these types of PCMCIA cards typically have a core that is very brittle and it is easily broken. If the core is broken, the PCMCIA card assembly or the antenna must be repaired or replaced.
Presently, integrated antenna diversity solutions are not found. Since two of the more popular wireless systems, Bluetooth and Home RF, are often implemented without antenna diversity; current solutions for these applications normally often use only a single antenna. These antenna solutions do not have adequate radiation coverage considering the operating environment of most digital devices. A single antenna may also be partially blocked by the operator or an object that is between the antenna and its intended point of communication. Poor coverage, mechanical reliability, extra PC cards, aesthetics, blockage of a single antenna due to an intervening object or multipath are all problems with these non-diversity solutions.
The present invention has been developed in response to the current state of the art, and in particular, in response to these and other problems and needs that have not been fully or completely solved by currently available antennas for portable digital devices. Thus, it is an overall object of the present invention to provide antennas that generate a radiation pattern particularly useful in reducing the noise, interference, obstruction and shielding caused by the user and various components of portable digital devices. More specifically, the present invention includes antennas that without protruding from the laptop are not obstructed or shielded by the housing or other structures of a laptop computer. Additionally, one advantage of the present invention is that it provides a diversity-like antenna solution for radios that do not support diversity, which are coupled to a portable digital device. While primarily intended for use with radios that do not support diversity, the present invention may also be used with diversity radios as well.
Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is an integrated antenna system for a portable computer. The antenna system advantageously provides wireless or radio frequency (RF) communication with other networks or communication systems to allow data and other information to be shared or exchanged.
Another advantage of the present invention is a diversity antenna structure that accounts for the disturbance of the radiation pattern by the laptop and the surrounding environment. A diversity antenna structure may be connected to a diversity radio, such as those used in IEEE 802.11 systems, that decide which of the antennas is receiving the strongest signal, and thereby ensure the best possible link performance. Non-diversity radios, such as those used in the Bluetooth systems, are also able to use the diversity antenna structure of the present invention via a power divider, which re-characterizes the diversity antenna as the single antenna expected by the non-diversity radio. More specifically, the present invention supplies an integrated diversity antenna solution that may also be used with non-diversity based wireless systems.
Yet another advantage of the present invention is the mechanical reliability, omnidirectional radiation pattern coverage, and aesthetically unobtrusive nature of the integrated wireless system. The integrated wireless system comprises a mini PCI card or integrated printed circuit board (PCB) with a radio transceiver, power divider, and preamplifier. The system further comprises at least two antennas connected to the PCI card or PCB via mini-coaxial cables. The various electrical couplings between the mini PCI card and at least two antennas can be electrically isolated to improve the signal strength and minimize signal blockage due to the presence of an intervening object.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus allows wireless communication between a portable computer and a communications network to be established. The apparatus includes a portable computer with a base unit having housing with an upper surface, a lower surface and side walls. The portable computer also includes a display unit, which is attached to the base unit and the portable computer is movable into an open position and a closed position. At least two antennas are enclosed within the side walls of the housing on the base unit of the portable computer. The at least two antennas are configured to transceive diversity and non-diversity wireless communications. Desirably, the at least two antennas are surface mounted antennas, such as, but not limited to, patch antennas that produce a radiation pattern that does not interfere with the radiation pattern of the partner antennas. In the case of a dual antenna structure each antenna would produce a kidney or cardioid shaped radiation coverage and tend to fill the space from the middle of the portable computer outward. Alternatively, the at least two antennas may be overmolded surface mounted antennas placed in the seam of the housing such that the surface of the overmolded antennas are flush with the upper surface and lower surface of the housing along the side walls of the housing. This configuration exposes the at least two antennas to the exterior, thereby reducing the interference, without causing the antennas to protrude from the housing and subject them to undo risk of damage. Both of these configurations increase the reliability of apparatus by removing any moving breakable parts normally associated with antennas. The antennas are operable regardless of the position of the display unit attached to the base unit.
The apparatus also includes a power divider feed structure connected to orthogonally configured antennas via micro-coax cable. Desirably, the power divider feed structure is configured to automatically feed the at least two antennas to produce an omnidirectional radiation coverage pattern, regardless of attached radio. Thus if the portable computer is using a non-diversity radio, such as the radio used in a Bluetooth system, the apparatus utilizes multiple antennas by feeding the radio from the power divider feed structure. But if a diversity radio, such as those used in the IEEE 802.11 RF systems, is used then the apparatus would decide which of the antennas is receiving the strongest RF signal to ensure the high RF link performance. An exemplary power feed structure includes a Wilkinson power divider integrated onto a printed circuit board (PCB). Alternatively, the apparatus can utilize a branch-line quadrature hybrid power divider.
In another preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a portable computer having an open position and a closed position. The portable computer includes a base unit with an upper surface, a lower surface and at least two side walls; at least four orthogonally located patch antennas are connected to the base unit and configured to establish wireless communication between the portable computer and a wireless communication system; and a power divider feed structure is configured to transceive signals with the antennas. The antennas are located in the recess of the seam of the base unit, preferably along the side walls. This configuration allows for spherical radiation coverage regardless of the position of the computer, but also results in a power loss of 6 dB instead of the 3 dB loss observed from a dual patch antenna configuration. Additional interference circuitry is included in the apparatus to coordinate reception from each antenna, since the patch antenna patterns would not be totally orthogonal the signals from the antennas might sum together at an intended destination to form constructive and destructive interference in certain directions.
The present invention, in yet another preferred embodiment, is an antenna system for use with a portable computer having a base unit with a recess sized and configured to receive the antenna system. The antennas used within the antenna system include a radiating element, dielectric material, and a ground plane. The radiating element and ground plane of each antenna are electrically connected via micro-coax cable to a connector of the power divider configured to attach multiple antennas to a radio on a portable computer. The radio may be a wireless or RF radio, integrated into the portable computer. The antenna system is positioned within the seam in the molding on the base unit. The radiating element of the antenna may include a plurality of elongated members positioned proximate to each other. A dielectric material separates these elongated members, but the members are spaced close enough to create a monopole or dipole antenna.
Advantageously, the antenna system of the present invention is a small, compact antenna array that does not protrude from the housing of the computer. Accordingly, the antenna system has little effect on existing portable computer designs and it requires only a small space inside the computer housing. In this location the antennas are not subject to the same exposure risks encountered by extended antenna structures. This significantly decreases design and manufacturing costs while increasing the reliability of the antenna system. The diversity of using two patch antennas, one on each side, of the digital device creates two hemispherical radiation patterns with a minimally sized null area between the antennas. The present invention can connect the two antennas back to a non-diversity transceiver through a power-combiner so that the overall structure appears as a single antenna. This feature allows the antenna structure flexibility to be integrated right into the clamshell housing on the laptop for easier manufacture because the antenna structure can be used with both types of wireless radios. Furthermore, the user would not be aware of where the digital device obtained its wireless conductivity.
Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
In order that the manner in which the above recited and other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawing depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary laptop system that provides a suitable operating environment for the present invention;
FIG. 2a is a cross sectional side view of an antenna captured within the housing of a digital device;
FIG. 2b is a cross sectional side view of an overmolded antenna held within the housing of a digital device;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a laptop similar to FIG. 1, but showing four patch antennas for an improved radiation patterns.
FIG. 4a is a power divider with port isolation (Wilkinson Power Divider);
FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram of a power divider with port isolation;
FIG. 5a is a branch-line quadrature hybrid power divider; and
FIG. 5b is a schematic diagram of a branch-line quadrature hybrid power divider.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary computer laptop system configured for wireless communication. Laptop computer 10 comprising base unit 12 having housing 13 with an upper surface, a lower surface and side walls. The portable laptop computer 10 also includes display unit 11, which is attached to the base unit 12. Laptop computer 10 is movable into an open position and a closed position. At least two antennas 20 are enclosed within the side walls of housing 13 on the base unit 12 of laptop computer 10. Laptop computer 10 is configured with antennas 20 a and 20 b connected to a wireless PCI card 30 via micro-coaxial cables 25. Tracer 23 ensures consistency at the output of the power dividers of the signal to be transmitted. Wireless PCI card 30 comprises power divider 45, preamplifier 40, and wireless radio 35. The wireless PCI card 30 may also contain an interface for external interaction with antennas 20 via software or hardware. Thereby enabling a user to upgrade the wireless radio and underlying software without needing to replace the integrated antennas 20.
Antennas 20 can be integrated within the base of the laptop and connected via micro-coaxial cable 25 to the radio 35 on PCI card 30. Radiation patterns 50 demonstrate the cardioid or kidney shaped hemispherical radiation patterns for reception and transmission from the strategically placed antennas 20. One antenna configuration utilizes two or more antennas held captive in the laptop housing 13 such that the radiation patterns of the antennas when combined together provide omni directional radiation and reception coverage in the azimuthal plane by using a power divider feed structure. Antennas 20 can be located at various points around the base of the laptop or on the lid so that they would be shielded from each other by the housing of the laptop.
As an example, if only two planar antennas that produce hemispherical radiation patterns are used, they could be located on opposite sides of the laptop that would essentially combine to provide a spherical coverage volume (uniform coverage in all directions). Given that the two antennas are separated by the width of the laptop, the coverage would not be a complete sphere, but many surface mounted antennas such as patch antennas provide coverage, which is shaped somewhat like a kidney or cardioid and would thus tend to fill the volume or space from one side of the laptop to the other. This approach would minimize the shadowing effect that the laptop has on a single antenna mounted elsewhere on the laptop or on a PCMCIA card within the laptop. FIG. 2 shows how the antennas might be integrated into the laptop plastics.
Exemplary micro-coaxial cables include feed structures, such as flex circuit material, wire cable, fiber optic cable, some sort of micro-coax cable, or other flexible conductive material that easily runs through the laptop interior to the antennas 20. In one configuration, the antenna feed structures could utilize a hybrid power divider 45 that provides electrical isolation between the antenna ports so that interference or impedance variations at one antenna 20 a do not degrade the performance of the other antenna 20 b. As such, this antenna structure design attempts to achieve good impedance matching to the feeding transmission line so as to maximize the available power for radiation. So if there is a mismatch, the wireless hardware will know because of potential connections or some other wireless port that the other antenna is unable to communicate with. The micro-coaxial cables 25 are independent lines coming in at a junction of the PCI card 30, but the impedance of one cable does not affect the impedance of the other cable. Thus the PCI card 30 has two separate lines as opposed to combining the two micro-coaxial cables 25 prior to connecting to the card 30. The mini-PCI card 30 is a portable, small implementation of essentially the PC card, but it's integrated or plugged directly onto the motherboard via PCI interface socket 15 that is located in the middle of the laptop. The mini-PCI interface 15 on laptop 10 allows for a new mini-PCI radio 30 to be inserted into the laptop, allowing for hardware upgrades. Although such upgrades would not be as easily performed as for those wireless systems located on a PCMCIA card, the risk of damage and lose of components are greatly reduced with the internal system. So the upgrade process is not something that a user would typically pull in and pull out on. The upgrade process is something akin to changing a video card in a desktop computer, with the notable exception that most users do not open up their laptop cases. Furthermore, the internal mini-PCI wireless system allows the laptop to be in continuous wireless contact without the risk of removal for want of a PCMCIA slot.
The integration of an antenna/radio solution within a laptop involves the ability to build the radio directly on the main board or even building the radio on a mini-PCI card both of which are considered "integrated" within the laptop case. Wireless radio 35 consists of components that enable wireless communication. For example, a Bluetooth radio chip comprises the bluetooth stack, link manager, RF baseband, and preamplifier set for a single antenna. Wireless radio 35 can comprise the components necessary for either a diversity or non-diversity radio. In a diversity situation power amplifier 40 and power divider 45 would be unnecessary as radio 35 would be able to send and receive signals to the individual antennas. In a non-diversity radio, the signal to be transmitted is sent to pre amplifier 40, which is programmably set according to the wireless specifications being used such that when the signal is divided, the signal will remain at the transmission limit of the standard. Power divider 45 theoretically divides the signal strength in half and transmits it equally along the micro-coaxial cables 25 to the antennas 20, which are integrated into the case of the laptop 10.
Radio 35 may either be a diversity or non-diversity radio. Diversity wireless systems or radios generally provide better performance than similar non-diversity systems. A diversity system is highly desirable because it effectively combats the most common problem with wireless equipment, namely, signal dropouts or multipath, when RF signals arrive at a location via different transmission paths, consisting of a combination of direct and reflected signals. Under these conditions, the output can be noisy, lost, or undecipherable. These problems generally occur in closed areas where metal objects are present, but may also exist in other environments. Diversity systems are able to avoid signal dropouts because they have two antennas and two receiver channels. Special circuits in the receiver select the signal from the antenna and receiver channel with the best signal. Because the chances that there will be a simultaneous signal dropout at both antennas are extremely low, diversity systems avoid signal dropouts. Diversity systems can also improve the useful operating range for wireless systems. This is because, even when there are no actual signal dropouts, the amount of signal available or strength of signal available at long ranges can be reduced. This can cause the wireless system to briefly lose the wireless signal well before the transmitter is truly out of range. With a diversity system, complete signal loss is unlikely and the operating range is extended. Two common types of diversity systems include a true diversity and a phasing diversity. In general, true diversity has a superior performance over phasing diversity. However, the true diversity equipment is also more expensive to manufacture, making the phasing diversity equipment acceptable in many situations.
While there are many inherent advantages of a diversity system, there are other aspects of wireless system design that can be important. For example, a high quality non-diversity wireless system will often perform better than a poorly designed or cheaply made diversity system. This is especially true in areas where signal interference is a serious problem. Additionally, diversity equipment is more expensive to purchase than similar non-diversity equipment. As such, the use of a non-diversity system should also be considered for situations where interference might be a serious problem and the cost of a diversity system of comparable quality is too expensive.
Exemplary diversity wireless protocols include the IEEE 802.11 RF wireless standards: 802.11 HR, 802.11b, and 802.11 @ 5 GHz standards. Other diversity wireless protocols include HiperLan, HiperLan II, and OpenAir wireless protocols. Exemplary non-diversity wireless protocols include the Bluetooth protocol, HomeRF protocol, and SWAP protocol. Although many of the non-diversity wireless protocols are developing a diversity operational mode so that they might enjoy the previously mentioned advantages of diversity radios, the present invention enables non-diversity protocols to enjoy the benefits of antenna diversity immediately while maintaining the interference related benefits of non-diversity.
Bluetooth, which is only one example of a non-diversity short-range wireless standard, is actually a combination of specialized computer chips and software. Bluetooth enables users to connect to a wide range of computing and telecommunications devices easily and simply, without the need to buy, carry, or connect cables. Bluetooth creates rapid ad hoc connections with other Bluetooth capable devices, thereby creating the possibility of automatic unconscious connections between digital devices. These connections can be used for a variety of purposes, for example to automatically update E-mail. Bluetooth virtually eliminates the need for additional or proprietary cabling to connect individual peripheral devices, because a single Bluetooth communication port can maintain at least 8 separate high-speed connections. The standard transfer rate for these high-speed Bluetooth connections is up to one megabyte per second, over 17 times as fast as a typical modem. Because Bluetooth can be used for a variety of purposes, it will also potentially replace multiple cable connections via a single radio link.
FIG. 2a is a cross sectional side view of an antenna captured within the housing of a digital device. FIG. 2a is illustrative of how antenna 20 may be captured within the plastic radome of the housing 13 in the base unit 12 of the laptop computer 10. The housing for the base is split into two parts, a top portion 13 a and a bottom portion 13 b. These portions are mechanically fastened to each other upon assembly of the interior control portion of laptop computer 10. In utilizing the radome of housing 13, the antennas are held in an appropriate position and the transmission medium 25 will not be subject to damage. In some configurations, a gap between the top half of the laptop base or the upper section of housing 13 a and the lower section 13 b allows transmission and reception of radio signals. The integration of the antenna into the housing of the laptop computer allows for a reduction of some environmental and manufacturing constraints normally faced by integrated antenna designs. For example, the overall form factor of the laptop does not change, because the two halves of the laptop flow up and form the radome. If the laptop is using conductive plastic material, the antennas might have to be overmolded as depicted in FIG. 2b. The preferred position for antenna 20 is on the sides, between the upper section of housing 13 a and the lower section 13 b. Furthermore, the integrated solutions illustrated in FIGS. 2a and 2 b are basically invisible to the user, yet they provide the necessary wireless directionality range all the way around the laptop.
Thus a laptop manufacturer can include the integrated antenna structure or leave it out of the laptop without changing the appearance and structure of the laptop. The sides are also a good location for the antenna 20, because there is not as much activity on the side of the laptop. In fact, the laptop industry is discussing moving away from PCMCIA based slots that are located on the sides of the laptop. As more devices are moving to USB and other things, it is foreseeable that plug adapters will be the interface of choice on laptops in the future rather than actual expansion card slots making the sides available for stronger and more sensitive antennas.
Although antenna shapes may be countless, there are several basic types of antennas. Wire antennas, aperture antennas, reflector antennas, and lens antennas are examples of the many engineering procedures that are used to collimate, focus, and effectively direct the electromagnetic energy radiated by the antennas. While the preferred embodiment of the present invention is the dual patch antenna configuration, other integrated antenna array configurations may be acceptable. Exemplary wire antennas include loop, straight wire, helix, or spiral antennas. Frequency independent antennas may also be designed and used in the present invention to provide equal performance over a broad frequency band.
Antenna 20 is preferably a patch antenna. Patch antennas are planar type antennas that transceive signals in a spherical coverage pattern but don't transceive signals directly behind them. A patch antenna can be a printed antenna formed on a PCB or a ceramic material. In most configurations patch antennas are usually square or rectangular. Presently, the most common use for patch antennas is with GPS devices in a variety of different applications, because the GPS device antennas mostly face upwards. Patch antennas have not necessarily been used in a directional coverage as proposed under the present invention.
Thus use of a planar type patch antenna is preferred, because they are very integratable into the laptop. Unfortunately, a single patch antenna does not have the kind of spherical coverage or 360° coverage desired for a laptop. This is particularly true with a Bluetooth type wireless application where one antenna is expected to give full coverage. Additionally, a battery run laptop wireless system has so little power to lose to begin with, the system should supply omnidirectional conductivity. As mentioned previously the environment of the laptop can block the radiation pattern of that low power signal. In fact, different brands of laptops create different operating environments for antenna systems. For example various electrical cages, used in the laptop for shielding, affect the proposed antenna system in dramatically different ways from one vendor to another. Making the placement of the patch antennas in the laptop important. While the patch antenna is not overly concerned with what happens behind it, it is important that the radiation pattern is not blocked by electrical components. Thus the edges of the laptop housing are generally and ideal location for the patch antennas.
Other exemplary antennas include fractal antennas, wire antennas, lens antennas, or other planar antenna structures. One such planar antenna is the inverted 'F' antenna, a hybrid of the patch antenna. The inverted F antenna is a cross-polarized antenna. Fractal antenna structures give a user similar wireless performance; the structure is designed predominantly according to the primary operating environment of the laptop computer. In one configuration, the antenna structure is composed of different types of antennas. For example, the sides may use one type of antenna, the front another type of antenna, and the back a third type of antenna.
Another acceptable configuration is a patch antenna that is circularly polarized. Circular polarization may give better coverage or may mitigate reflections that a user experience in the standard operating environment. For example, if one surrounding building is predominantly horizontally polarized and another surrounding building is predominantly vertically polarized the normal antenna will only receive one type of polarized signal. If the antenna is a vertically polarized antenna, then the antenna is not going to pick up horizontal polarization very well. In some wireless protocols, such as Bluetooth, that is the same as not working, because the signal is low power to begin with. So a user may choose one antenna, such as a circular polarized patch antenna, over another just because the antenna works better in different operating environments.
FIG. 2b is a cross sectional side view of an overmolded antenna held within the housing of a digital device. Certain laptop computers 10 contain EMI protection that does not allow the penetration of wireless signals nor can an integrated antenna located within the traditional radome transmit wireless signals out. For example, some laptop computers use conductive materials or fillers, such as exotic conductive plastic material, that interfere with fully integrated antenna arrays in the laptop cases or housing bodies. In these configurations, the laptop housing radome configuration would need to be altered as depicted in FIG. 2b to practice the present invention. The housing should be altered such that the upper portion of the housing would be designed as 55 a and the lower portion as 55 b exposing a larger portion of antenna 20. Antenna 20 is overmolded so as to be flush with the conductive housing 55. In this manner, the patch antenna could receive and transmit signals without the interference from the conductive cage or housing 55.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a laptop similar to FIG. 1, but showing four patch antennas for an improved radiation patterns. FIG. 3 illustrates how a diversity antenna structure can be developed using at least four integrated antennas 20. The patch antennas produce a heart/kidney shaped lobe where the signal starts being unobstructed by the laptop, so as the signal gets further and further away from the laptop the radiation pattern becomes more complete. The front patch antenna 20 c and a back patch antenna 20 d produce a radiation pattern 50 that mitigates the small null area seen in FIG. 1, although the four-antenna configuration requires another power performance hit for the additional coverage.
In this configuration, wireless PCI card 30 contains wireless radio 35, but preamplifier 42 differs from the preamplifier 40 in FIG. 1, in that it specially configured according to the number of antennas attached to the power divider. For example, if there are four patch antennas, as illustrated, the power amplifier would amplify the signal from the non-diversity radio to compensate for an approximate 6 dB power loss associated with four patch antennas, so that following power divider 48, the power output would be within the desired specification levels. Power divider 48 is also configured differently from FIG. 1, so as to provide four isolated ports for each of the antennas 20.
This particular configuration may require additional circuitry within radio 35 in order to interpret the signals received from the various antennas. The four antennas would minimize the effect of blockage, but would allow the potential of having signals from more than one antenna, which might sum at an intended destination to form constructive interference in certain directions since antenna patterns would not be totally orthogonal with respect to each other. This configuration would also result in a power loss of 6 dB for four antennas instead of 3 dB for two antennas. However, the power loss would still be small compared to the transmission loss caused by blockage or multipath.
Diversity radios, such as those used in the IEEE 802.11 systems are already capable of determining which antenna is receiving the strongest RF signal, thus ensuring the best possible RF link performance. Non-diversity radios such as those currently used in the Bluetooth system would utilize the multiple antennas by feeding the radio from a power divider, as described in FIGS. 4 and 5, to produce omni directional radiation coverage. Furthermore, the antenna feed structure employs a power divider 48 that provides electrical isolation between the antenna ports so that interference or impedance variations at one antenna will not degrade the performance of the other antennas.
FIG. 4a illustrates one configuration of a power divider, such as a Wilkinson power divider. Radio 35 transmits a signal often via a preamplifier 40, across a micro-coaxial cable or copper connection 60 to power divider 45. The Wilkinson power divider is advantageous for the antenna configuration, because it is lossless when the output ports are matched. The input impedance 62 is preferably the normalized characteristic impedance of the system and is illustrated as Z0. Following the electrical division of the signal, each branch exhibits an impedance ratio of {square root over (2)}•Zo due to the decreased area in each branch. Each branches being approximately λ/4 in length as illustrated. Resistor 66 is selected according to the ratio of two times the characteristic impedance and helps establish output impedance 62 of Zo on each branch of power divider 45. Placement of resistor 66 at the expanded area of each branch also ensures that the same potential exists at the input and output connection of the power divider for signals received or transmitted from antennas 20 via the micro-coaxial cables 25. Thus output impedance 62 is equivalent to the input impedance 62 of Zo. The normalized characteristic impedance is most typically designed to match the characteristic impedance of the antenna. The power divider design attempts to achieve good impedance matching to the feeding transmission line so as to maximize the available power for radiation at the antenna by allowing for lossless power transfer to the antenna of the divided signal. One of the more advantageous features of this implementation is that power divider 45 may be easily implemented on a PCB board 68 with copper overlay 70. The power splitter/divider can then either be placed on the PCI card with the other radio components or kept separately on the main PCB board of the laptop computer as a built in antenna structure.
Unfortunately, this configuration results in a theoretical transmission performance hit of 3 dB, but if this results in really good coverage for non-diversity radio standards it is an acceptable loss associated with those antennas. When you split the signal, the signal loses approximately half of the available signal power. Half of the signal power is sent one direction, and the other half is sent to the other port.
One configuration overcomes the aforementioned performance hit by placing a bigger P/A (Power and Amplifier) on the PCI card between the radio and the power divider. The transmission signal would be amplified after the radio and sent to the divider such that upon signal division the signal is at the preferred signal strength. In the amplified configuration, the signal still loses half its power because of the signal split, but the original signal strength is 3 dB stronger than recommended. Making the divided signal, which is transmitted half out of one patch antenna and half of it out of the other patch antenna, within the specifications if power is a restriction. Because the signal levels coming out of either antenna is down 3 dB from the original signal entering the power divider.
FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram of the power divider illustrated in FIG. 4a. The schematic demonstrates the equal division of the input signal across a quarter wavelength 72. The schematic diagram also illustrates port isolation of the two output signals created from the input signal by the power divider. As such, the circuit produces two output signals with an approximate 3 dB drop in signal strength, where the output signals maintain the same characteristic impedance as the input and thereby allow for efficient power transfer to the antenna.
FIG. 5a is a branch-line quadrature hybrid power divider. Branch line quadrature hybrid power divider 80 can be substituted for power divider 45, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4. Branch line quadrature hybrid 80 has the advantage of an internal trace connection as illustrated by 83 with a high degree of symmetry. Any port on the quadrature hybrid power divider can be used as the input port, with the output ports always being on the opposite side of the junction as the input port. The port on the same side of the junction as the input port can be grounded in a non-diversity system. The isolated input signals 74 are taken into a divisional rectangle with two side channel impedances of Zo/{square root over (2)} separating the ports on opposite sides of the junction and two vertical channel impedances of Zo separating the ports on the same side of the junction. The channels, both vertical and side, of the divisional rectangle are made of conductive material and are equivalent to λ/4 in length as illustrated by 78.
FIG. 5b is a schematic diagram of a branch-line quadrature hybrid power divider. As previously mentioned, any port on the quadrature hybrid power divider can be used as the input port, with the output ports always being on the opposite side of the junction as the input port. Each transmission line has a common ground return that is not illustrated. Upon the division of the signal via the divisional rectangle, output impedance 86 is equivalent to input impedance 74 as was illustrated previously. This particular power divider may also be placed on a PCB board or ceramic surface, and utilizing copper or other conductive material, the signal may be divided into equal portions.
Should a signal need to be divided, as illustrated in FIG. 3, into more than one division, a user may utilize the power dividers in succession or a power divider may be created with multiple branches according to the number of antennas connected to the system. If a staged method is used, amplifiers may be included following the power division and preliminary to the next power division, thereby enabling the signals to maintain a near maximum signal strength.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes, which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims, are to be embraced within their scope.
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We are recruiting (NC, SC, VA)! - Click here to apply!
We now cover all of North Carolina, South Carolina, Northern Georgia, Southern Virginia and our newest branch is in Virginia Beach. Click here to view our new expanded coverage area.
Carolina Paranormal Society is a not-for-profit group whose purpose is to research and investigate evidence of paranormal phenomenon (ghosts) using practices and methods which are scientific in nature. Our goal in trying to prove whether or not ghosts exist is to gather and seek information on paranormal incidents to help us have a better understanding of ghosts and hauntings. In the process of reaching our goal we also wish to help any individuals experiencing problems with the paranormal.
During the research process, we will interview the client to determine what kind of paranormal phenomenon is taking place. We will also look into the history of the building and the land where the paranormal activity is taking place to see if there is any relevant history, such as a death, that might contribute to the phenomenon.
During an investigation we will collect data with a variety of instruments including but not limited to, infrared video cameras, digital cameras, camcorders, electromagnetic field detectors (EMF), digital thermometers, voice recorders, and more. We do NOT use ouija boards, seances or other forms of summoning in order to research the paranormal. We do not perform exorcisms, cleansings or banishings.
We respect our clients right to privacy. Everything is strictly confidential unless we receive written permission to use it elsewhere.
There are no charges for any of these services, however any donations would gratefully be accepted. Any donations received would go towards operational expenses.
Carolina Paranormal Society is based in the Charlotte, North Carolina area and primarily covers North Carolina (NC) and South Carolina (SC) as an official TAPS Family team for both, but we will travel around the South East, if needed.

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MLB players bracing for hikesBy RONALD BLUM
The Associated Press | November 23,2012Team executives and agents wandered into the Agave Sunset lounge at the resort where the general managers meetings were held in Indian Wells, Calif. Four of the six flat-screen televisions were showing election coverage, with the other two turned to sports.
President Barack Obamas victory over Mitt Romney was of as much interest to baseballs money men as the game scores, given the millions of dollars routinely guaranteed in player contracts these days.
As free agents negotiate deals this offseason, tax policy is an area that comes up along with the usual issues. Some players are wrangling for as much money as they can get before the end of the year to avoid a take hike in 2013.
Front-loading would make sense if at all possible as tax rates will definitely go up on January 1st on all high-income taxpayers, agent Greg Genske said in an email. The only question is HOW MUCH will the rates increase????
This much is known for now: Starting Jan. 1, there is an additional 0.9 percent Medicare tax on wages above $200,000 for individuals and $250,000 for married couples filing jointly under the federal Affordable Care Act, a rise to 2.35 percent.
In addition, the Bush tax cuts are scheduled to expire at the end of the year, which could raise the highest marginal federal tax rate from 35 percent to 39.6 percent although a deal between Obama and Congress could change that.
Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane figures agents will be on top of the changes but the results of negotiations about the so-called fiscal cliff are unpredictable.
I think if youre hopping around the potential of tax reform, youre probably chasing your tail, Beane said. If they can predict when somethings going to happen, then theyre much further ahead than the lawmakers.
With baseball contracts worth as much as $275 million (Alex Rodriguez) and the major league minimum $480,000, tax policy affects every player who spends most of the season in the big leagues.
All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes, who has a $10 million salary next year, was traded from the Miami Marlins to the Toronto Blue Jays. While Florida has no state income tax, Reyes remains a New York resident from his days with the Mets and had high taxes to begin with. Ontarios provincial tax rises to 11.16 percent on top of a Canadian federal level as high as 29 percent.
Among states with big league teams, income tax rates go as high as 10.3 percent in California and 8.82 percent in New York. At the other end, Florida, Texas and Washington have no state income tax. The top rate in the District of Columbia is 8.95 percent.
I like ours; were a no-tax state, Seattle Mariners general manager Jack Zdurienck said. When we sit down with players, thats a huge benefit. I think any player out there that has an opportunity to play in a no-tax state gets benefits, enormous benefits. We hope that weighs in our favor.
According to an analysis done by a tax lawyer on the staff of agent Scott Boras, a player with a $10 million salary and average deductions who plays in Florida and is a resident of that state will see his taxes rise from $3.45 million this year to $4.09 million next year under current law. If traded to the Blue Jays, that players 2013 tax would rise to $4.27 million. And if dealt to a California team, the tax would go up to $4.4 million.
By moving money from salary into signing bonuses, players can sometimes lower their state tax bills. Shifting money into December this year could reduce federal taxes.
Tax measures are going to be discussed, but change most likely carries compromise on both sides, Boras said. One thing is clear based on the nations ballot totals: Many Americans are split on this subject.
In the end, most free agents choose teams based on where they want to play, not on lowering the tax cut on their income.
Its a factor, maybe even a small factor, agent Craig Landis said. If theres 50 variables, you can now make it a 51st. Its not usually going to be the drive, but its something to consider.
And for teams, only the big spenders need worry.
Beanes Athletics, for instance, had the lowest payroll in the majors last season. Its probably not a situation Ill have to face in Oakland too much, he said.MORE IN Wire SportsSAN RAFAEL, Calif. St-riike! ... And were talking outside of outside corners. Full StorySANTA CLARA, Calif. Full StoryNEW YORK Tom Bradys lawsuit against the NFL in which he wants his four-game suspension... Full Story
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This story is from Spennynews, Issue 147 - 25th July 2009
'Big Meeting' continues growing
Durham Miner's Gala, traditionally known as 'The Big Meeting', drew what seemed to be the biggest crowds seen in years to celebrate its 125th meeting on 11th July 2009. For trade unionists the day may be about the speakers on the platform and their socialist message, but the rhetoric has little or no meaning for more than a small portion of the crowds who line the streets leading to the Royal County Hotel, and from there on to the Racecourse. They are drawn to Durham by the spectacle of colourful banners, and to hear good music played by fine musicians, and they very happily show their appreciation. The Gala, once threatened by extinction, due to the closure of the collieries that paraded their banners on the big day, continues its resurgence. Of the many banners paraded this year, seventy were mining banners, and this is in spite of the fact that the last coal workings in the region ceased years ago. As lodges lay up their venerable old banners, often because time and the elements have taken their toll on their fabric, communities have reunited around the new standards produced to replace them. The Big Meeting is still about the banners, and about the communities they represent. This year offered a great deal to celebrate the 125th Miner's Gala, and the 100th anniversary of the Miner's Festival Service held annually since 1896, and only interrupted by two world wars and two major strikes. It is a tradition that new banners are blessed on ALL TOGETHER NOW Andrew Smith, Stephen Hughes, Helen Goodman MP, Rodney Bickerstaff, Dennis Skinner. On the extreme right is Ernie Foster and Councillor Jim Graham. this occasion, and this year it was the turn of banners from South Hetton, Boldon and Westoe. The Spennymoor Heritage Banner, unfurled on the eve of the 2006 Miner's Gala, and blessed in the magnificent Durham Cathedral that same year, also had something special to celebrate. The three 'faces' on the banner, Stephen Hughes MEP, trades unionist Rodney Bickerstaff and Dennis Skinner MP, had been fated to never be able to accompany the banner on the same day. That changed this year, when for the first and quite possibly the last time, the three were able to stand together beneath the banner that bears their images. It's times like this that mark Durham Miner's Gala as being something special: that give it an important place in our heritage. Long may they continue.
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Alaska's education commissioner said that the state plans to take the steps needed to seek a waiver from provisions of the federal education law No Child Left Behind.
Michael Hanley told The Associated Press the decision boiled down to either seeking a waiver or "riding out" No Child Left Behind, which he said would result in more and more schools being labeled as failing because they would not meet the soon-to-be rising bar for measuring annual progress.
Hanley said he didn't expect any changes to the law before the November presidential election and said it even could be another year or more beyond that.
In the meantime, he said state officials are taking the steps necessary to file a waiver request by a September deadline for a new round of applications.
"The bottom line is, if I thought that we were having to sacrifice what I thought was going to be good for Alaska in order to get a waiver, we would just probably ride it out," he said. "But I think we can move forward, with components that I think are going to have a positive impact and positively affect our education system and will allow us to get a waiver at the same time."


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Speakeasy Wednesdays at Mingle
Mingle in Albany (by far one of my favorite local restaurants; get the Korean Tacos, you won't be sorry) has teamed up with the owners of the Albany Distilling Company for a new happy hour that they're calling Speakeasy Wednesdays. ('Speakeasy' because the Albany Distilling Company was the first 'legal' distillery in Albany since Prohibition.) […] [Read More]
Sunday brunch: The Ugly Rooster
Brunch is something we're really good at up here. One thing I told my husband when I agreed to move back home from the city (we were just dating then) was that he better be up for many early brunch outings so I could find some favorites. So far, I haven't been disappointed. Ever have breakfast […] [Read More]


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For 19-years old center it was last of game season 2011/12. In his first year on the highest domestic level Karnowski played in 35 competitions, starting 18 of them. Being one of the youngest players in all Tauron Basket Liga, polish prospect finished with averages of 10.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 steals, 1.3 assists and 1.2 blocks in 25 minutes per game. After this record game Eurohopes staff interviewed Karnowski, asking about his experiences and impressions of first professional season, improvement, strengths and weaknesses, aims for future and next season.
-Because of injuries of two centers, AZS Politechnika was forced to finish season without any classic big men. In addition it seemed that your teammates were obligated to passing you ball. So was there any plan to help you to beat your records to finish season strongly?No, there was nothing like that. We just played our game. But I have to say thanks to all my teammates, because they used me well in this game. First of all, I feel very happy about this win, because it caused that we finished season on 10th position. Polpharma Starogard Gdanski heavily chased us, but we have shown that we're better. It's great feeling!
-Season 2011/12 just has finished. Could you briefly summarize it?First of all, I have never expected to get so many minutes on court in my first season on the highest domestic level. Coach Dariusz Szczubial trusted me all the time and I was getting a lot of opportunities. I just tried to give my best and fight for all. As team we managed. In first part of season we fought for locate in top8, but many of our players caught up injuries, what forced us to finish season in seven. Taking this into account, it is clear that it was good year.
-How satisfied are you with your game? Which aspects of game worked well and which you still have to improve?I'm really happy that I was able to fight with this all older and stronger centers, much older than me. I am still very young player, look how I look and have much work ahead me. In my game lacked certainly better rebounding, I could also be better on free throw line and play more often back to the basket. It all can still catch up. I'm really happy to that I lost 6 kilos on weight. I think I need to lose 6-8 more kilos and it would be very good. My most important goal for next years is lose weight and add muscles. Looking at my attitude in the light of all the games, I kept a solid level.
-What now will be with you? Was it your last game in Tauron Basket Liga?At this moment, I don't have any idea. As everyone knows I'm wondering coming over to join NCAA and for this purpose some time ago I passed all American exams to be eligible academically. I think that I will decide some time after graduation, when I will be able to think calmly.
-In view of this, are you planning to make a visit to USA and see any campuses?After passing all my high school exams, I would go to the USA. I'm planning to cut my list to the best three colleges and visit their campuses. It would be for sure only the best options and finally I will choose one of them. Honesty at this moment, I have no idea yet what schools it will be. Now before me there are meetings with American coaches as well as long conversations with parents. We'll see.
-Word on street is that Gonzaga is your main option. Is it true?Gonzaga is one of those schools that are interested in me. I am also interested in them. There is still 5-6 schools, with whom I am still in contact. Everything is still open. I want especially to commit to team based on inside the paint game. Would love to get much balls on low-post and being able to be responsible for offensive game of this team.
Twitter of the author: @rafjuc
Other articles:
-Karnowski and his basketball family (28/1/12): link.
-Karnowski, the U18 FIBA All Star MVP (18/9/11): link.
-Karnowski to Eurohopes: "NCAA should be the best option for me" (21/11/11): link.
Photo: Agencja Gazeta


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Winter at Evansville's Mesker Park Zoo
Don't let dreary winter days get you down — and don't let the kids tell you there's "nothing to do" on chilly weekends.
"We really have so much to do in the winter here at the zoo," said Charlotte Roesner, marketing director at Evansville's Mesker Park Zoo.Many of the zoo's animals are from temperate climates and remain comfortably outdoors and visible all winter — some even more visible than usual, with fewer crowds and less greenery to block your view.
"There is a different scenario for each animal," said Roesner. "Some of the animals have heating pads to play on, and we make sure they have a non-frozen water source, extra bedding and heat pads. If their enclosures have indoor and outdoor access, we let them choose, so if its nice they'll often stay outside."
If you like to be outside in the cold weather, one of the newest exhibits and rarest species at the zoo is the pair of Mexican gray wolves which just arrived in November.
"They are an endangered species," said Roesner, "and our animal curator, Dr. Susan Lindsey, has been instrumental in working with these wolves. With Dr. Lindsey's connections, we were able to obtain this pair; we'll be able to do good work globally and be instrumental in the conservation of the species. Our pair can even possibly be foster parents for other pups."
If there are visitors on the grounds on nice days, the giraffes can still be hand-fed treats of romaine lettuce leaves at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and the Asian Takins, long-haired buffalo-like creatures that were the inspiration for the appearance of the Beast in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, are usually out enjoying the crisp air.
For those who like to stay warm in a heated environment, the zoo maintains three buildings full of wonderful exhibits. The Kley building houses nocturnal animals and reptiles, and Mechi the Indian rhino.
"The nocturnal exhibit in the Kley building is really cool, with some really interesting species," said Roesner. "It was remodeled only about three years ago. There are fruit bats in there, springhaas, a sand cat."
While the sand cat looks like an adorable, wide-eared apricot house cat, the cute prize might just go to the springhaas, an intriguing African rodent which appears to be a miniature cross between a kangaroo and a huge-eyed rabbit, with a long, furry, catlike tail.
The Discovery Center is home to reptiles, monkeys and the African serval cat. And of course, there is Amazonia.
"Amazonia is a state-of-the-art tropical South American rain forest, that is a beautiful 76 degrees year round," said Roesner. "It's a world-class facility, and there are some people in Evansville that have not seen it yet. Evansville and the tri-state are so proud of it."
The jaguars, which can go inside or outside in their enclosure near the lower entrance to Amazonia, are the facility's most popular animals, but not the most colorful — or the loudest. Inside the balmy retreat, visitors find bright pink roseate spoonbills and scarlet ibis roaming free, occasionally perching on a walkway for a close-up view of the guests. Near the top of the building live the black howler monkeys, the loudest land animals on earth, whose roars can be heard for nearly three miles in the jungle.
While in Amazonia, don't forget to look at the plants. From trailing tropical ferns and tall palm trees to tiny blooming orchids, the plant life is as interesting and even more varied than the animals. In February, the orchids arrive in force.
"In the winter, the Orchid Escape is our ray of sunshine in a cold kind of day," said Roesner. Hundreds of rare and beautiful South American orchids will fill Amazonia with a rainbow of colors between Feb. 9 and March 16, and there is no extra charge for admittance.
There will be an Orchid Escape Preview Breakfast on Feb. 9 from 8 to 9 a.m. Tickets are $30 a person.
Or-Kid is a program for kids ages 5-12, planned for Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants will learn about orchids, make crafts and have an orchid-themed snack.
Tickets are $10 for zoo members or $15 for nonmembers.
A Members' Only Orchid Escape Reception will be Feb. 23 between 8 and 9 a.m. For zoo members only, it gives visitors the opportunity to tour the orchid exhibit and talk to orchid experts before the zoo opens to the public.
Tickets are $15 per person.
Mesker Park Zoo
Where: 1545 Mesker Park Drive in Evansville
Phone: 812-435-6143
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 365 days a year; visitors may stay on grounds until 5 p.m., but the exhibit buildings close at 4:30 p.m.
Admission Rates:
Adults: $8.50 adults, $7.50 children, children 2 and under always admitted free; November to February rates: $6.50 adults, $5.50 children; November to February Tuesday rates: $5.50 adults, $4.50 children; Vanderburgh County residents get $1 off admission price with proof of address.
Subscribe to the Courier & Press or The Gleaner
Need Help? Call us at 1-877-304-7771.
Monday-Friday: 6am-5pm / Saturday: 6am-11am / Sunday: 7am-Noon


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A Leadership Retreat was held on October 15 and 16, 1999 for AALL's Special Interest Sections (SISs) to determine the growth needs of the American Association of Law Libraries. The specific objectives of the Retreat were to:
After reviewing the purpose, definition and contributions of an AALL Special Interest Section, the participants created an overall vision statement capturing what a SIS is -- an impact statement describing the difference SIS membership makes for its members. In addition, the participants created a purpose statement, addressing how a SIS makes that difference.
Energized and committed members benefit from creating and participating in a strong, multi-faceted, vibrant community that is the core of their professional lives.
A self-selecting group of members with a common interest, which serves as a forum, contributes educational value, serves as a resource for expertise, advocates and provides leadership growth opportunities.
The group also created a Leadership Profile for SIS leaders, which appears in Chapter 1 within sub-section "Governance of SIS's".


text: Interesting fact: The word "gay" actually had a meaning pre-dating its definition as happiness, which was pretty much the opposite of its current meaning. It used to be used to describe heterosexuals who had a lot of sex/sexual partners. More commonly referred to today as a slut. So I guess.... nah, happiness is still pretty damn accurate in both cases.


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I read this blog post a while back (here's a link, but for some reason it crashes my router...weird) called "Strong Opinions, Weakly Held" that really struck a chord with me. It means that when you take an opinion, you should strongly and fervently believe it, but be ready to abandon it and latch onto the next good opinion as soon as it becomes obvious that your opinion is wrong.
The idea was immediately compelling. I was used to pussyfooting around, never actually believing anything strongly but instead seeing the "truth" in all sides of a story. It was a really wishy-washy way to live. Drab, boring, milquetoast (love that word), monotone.
Bart: Nothing you say can upset us, we're the MTV generation.
Lisa: We feel neither highs nor lows.
Homer: Really, what's it like?
Lisa (shrugs): Meh...
So if you want to have an intellectually consistent but bored, boring, and stable life, that's the path I recommend.
But you'll never get anywhere. You'll never push any boundaries or make new discoveries or truly even feel alive unless you take some stands in life. They could very well be the wrong stands, and you may have to change your mind later. That is TERRIFYING to so many people...
We cling to our views because the walls of our opinions are like battlements that keep the good guys inside (us) safe from the enemy without (all those dopes with different opinions than ours). Quite literally, our views and opinions may help protect us, keep us safe, literally help us survive. Small wonder then that we fight so hard to keep those walls strong and tall.-- from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/how-risky-is-it-really/201007/why-changing-somebody-s-mind-or-yours-is-hard-do
Very few people are okay with admitting they were wrong. Politicians get hammered all the time by charges that they flip-flopped. It's as if learning, which is the act of changing your mind, is a disease that we should all be embarrassed by.
What a stupid view!
When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do, sir?-- John Maynard Keynes
You see a lot of arguments on the internet. Very rarely do you see someone say "I'm sorry, I was wrong", even when they've been soundly and self-evidently trounced by facts. It's so rare, in fact, that when you see it you immediately think "my, that person is a gentleman/gentlelady who is actually interested in the truth instead of arguing for arguments sake," and your opinion of them goes up. It's like you've rediscovered manners in a world where they've been dead for a long time.
I'm wrong all the time, but I'm proudly wrong. I'm not ashamed that I was wrong, because I was wrong honestly and didn't hide behind my ego when someone showed me my errors. And then I switched over to a new opinion, one that fit the facts I learned.
One nice side effect of being able to lose an argument gracefully is that people will respect your opinion more when you stand your ground. They know that you're not just being a stubborn ass; there's a good reason that you believe what you believe.
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom expands on this idea really well. It's called "The Four Agreements" but there's really only one: "be impeccable with your word" (the other 3 are derived from this one). It means you must be completely honest and express yourself fully all the time. This is more than "don't lie"; it's more along the lines of "be genuinely yourself". If you're interested in finding out who you really are, I highly recommend reading this.


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This week on "Days Of Our Lives," Will Horton came out to his parents. Fans have been waiting for this moment for months. Soaps.com would like to know...was it all you expected or hoped it would be? Was it done better than other soaps? Vote in our poll and leave us a comment about your thoughts.
Take a look at this week's Days Of Our Lives blogs.
Join us on Twitter @soapoperafan, and Facebook. Come tweet and Facebook with us about "Days Of Our Lives," all the other soap operas, "Dallas," "Glee," "Grey's Anatomy," "Scruples," "Vampire Diaries," and "Venice The Series."
- Christine Fix


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Posts Tagged 'Community Ratings'
September 29th, 2011 at 3:54 pm
Thursday Final Ratings: 'X Factor,' 'The Big Bang Theory,' 'Grey's Anatomy,' 'The Office,' 'The Secret Circle' & 'Mentalist' Adjusted Up
Thursday's final broadcast ratings.[Read-More]
September 23rd, 2011 at 1:25 pm
Thursday Finals: 'Big Bang Theory,' 'The X Factor,' 'Parks & Recreation' and 'Whitney' Adjusted Up
'Big Bang Theory' gets bigger.[Read-More]
September 23rd, 2011 at 8:20 am
TV Ratings Thursday: 'Big Bang Theory' Leads Night; 'X-Factor' Steady; Solid Starts for 'Whitney,' 'Person of Interest'
Office OK without Carrell, Grey's down big. Lukewarm starts for 'Charlie's Angels' and 'Prime Suspect.' CW shows fall...[Read-More]
September 16th, 2011 at 2:30 pm
Thursday Final Ratings: 'The Vampire Diaries,' 'Wipeout' Adjusted Up; 'The Secret Circle' Quarter Hour Ratings
Thursday night's final ratings.[Read-More]
September 16th, 2011 at 8:35 am
TV Ratings Thursday: 'The Secret Circle' Premieres Between 'Hellcats' & 'Nikita'; 'Vampire Diaries' Premiere, 'Wipeout' Finale Down
ABC & CBS tie for the adults 18-49 lead.[Read-More]
September 2nd, 2011 at 2:08 pm
Thursday Final Ratings: As Expected, Big Downward Adjustments Due To NFL Pre-Emptions
Thursday night's final ratings.[Read-More]
September 2nd, 2011 at 8:58 am
TV Ratings Thursday: NFL Pre-Emptions Inflate Ratings; Will 'Big Brother' & 'Rookie Blue' Fans Ignore That And Celebrate Anyway?
CBS looks likely to top the night for both adults 18-49 and total viewers.[Read-More]
August 26th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
Thursday Final Ratings: Numerous Adjustments Due to NFL and Irene Preemptions
Thursday night's final ratings.[Read-More]


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West Virginia State University announced May 16 Ashley Schumaker, who currently is senior director of board and public relations for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, has been selected chief of staff and special assistant to the president of WVSU.
Schumaker will assume her new position July 1.
"I am delighted to have someone with Ashley's experience of working in higher education in West Virginia join the State family," WVSU President Brian Hemphill said in a news release. "Her knowledge and abilities will be critical as we continue to make State the most student-centered research and teaching land-grant University in the state of West Virginia and beyond."


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Gear Review
Great for style
These sunglasses are great for driving or walking around. The hinges does feel a bit cheap but that is because the arms can be popped out. The lenses are difficult to scratch but don't try to scratch them . Worth your money
View More Details on Oakley Shaun White Signature Holbrook Sunglasses


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By Kathleen T. RhemAmerican Forces Press Service
HEIDELBURG, South Africa, Feb. 13, 2006 The U.S. military's top noncommissioned officer got an introduction to "adventure-based training" -- South Africa style -- during a visit here today.
U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is visiting South African military services this week. During a visit to "Army Gymnasium," a mid-level South African army training base here, Gainey experienced ROPES -- Reality-Oriented Practical Experience Systems -- training.
"It's all about taking you out of your comfort zone," South African army Warrant Officer Rudi Victor said, explaining that ROPES training builds confidence, teamwork and communication skills. South African warrant officers are equivalent to sergeants major in the U.S. Army.
Participants take part in a series of exercises designed to make them work together and clearly communicate their intent. In one exercise, a team of soldiers passes an individual over their heads -- completely turning the individual end-over-end vertically in the process. In another, one team member closes his eyes and drops into the arms of another team member.
Gainey participated in most exercises demonstrated. He said the training was a good drill that led to trusting a total stranger -- in his case Warrant Officer 1 Joe Tshabalala, the sergeant major of the South African army, who was Gainey's partner for many of the exercises. "It was simple," he said, "but with a lot of impact in terms of teaching troops to trust each other."
Low and high ropes courses with increasingly challenging obstacles make up another part of the training. "These are man-made obstacles that we have put there to simulate the things mother nature put in your way," Victor, a course facilitator, said.
Some obstacles are made to be impassable, Victor said, explaining they are designed to teach soldiers how to deal with failure. "Because that's real life," he said.
A highlight of the day was the "Rambo bridge," a 1.5- to 2-foot-wide log mounted between two trees a little more than 9 meters (30 feet) off the ground. Wearing a safety harness, participants climb a tree with iron "U"s pounded into it as rungs, then walk across the log and ring a bell on the opposite end. The log is round, with no flat surface to walk on. A facilitator holds a belay rope for safety.
Gainey made it across on his second try. Two senior U.S. NCOs traveling with him also made it across. A former airborne soldier, Gainey said he is not afraid of heights, so he wasn't worried initially. "But once you got up there and saw how narrow the log is, you realize how carefully you need to focus," he said.
Jokingly, he added, "What I was really thinking was: 'Am I going to be the first American to die here?'"
"It was an exhilarating experience," U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Steve Soanes, who provides security for Gainey when he travels, said. Soanes practically ran across the log without a moment's hesitation, wowing a small crowd of spectators.
Victor explained the exercise is designed to help soldiers deal with their fears. "We lead you through the process of getting past your first tendency of 'I can't,'" he said. "We get you through to 'I can.'"
Gainey said the bridge is an "effective, low-cost tool to build soldiers' confidence."
Soldiers need to challenge themselves in stressful situations to be successful leaders, Victor said. "If you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got," he said. "In layman's terms: You will be a boring person.
"To really learn you must experience things," he added. "You can't be an armchair spectator."


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I am playing Korea from Norm Kroger and I am gonna loose my bonus salary this month.... because it's fakin unbelievable operational game, like I was always missing in Hearts of iron etc. be aware when I gonna sharpen my teeth.
First to fight! Poland!
Hi all
I am new to hex games, bought Panzer Corps some time ago but felt my little brain was looking for something more tricky and difficult, so I got TOAW III
Great game, fun guaranteed for next 50 years with the tons of scens that come into it.
One cornerstone of maritimal warfare:
"Keep yourself near the lifeboat"
(Cap. Piluso)
Hi, Trotsky1917 is an enigma.
I am actually a [anti-stalinist] Marxist and oppose most wars,
... but I have always loved a good board wargame.
I own about 100 magazine games [wargamer, S&t and a few others], and about 30 boxed games. I am also on hexwar where like Liverpool FC I have been rubbish for years [I win about 45% of the time....]
I am looking for challenges, initially for smaller scenarios, I have toaw 3.4 latest patch, and will also cross post to Matrix, rugged defence etc.
the email is tbalive2 AT yahoo DOT co DOT uk
Hello all,
Sitting in Toronto, Canada, as my profile states, I mostly fly online on VATSim, and play some Project Reality from time to time. Recently found a game called Unity of Command, noticed it was a knock-off of TOAW, thought 'Oh yeah, had forgot about TOAW, that used to be fun, this seems to be much the same, should be fun...', but after a bit of play, noticed that it was much too simplistic in its execution, so decided I needed to dust off my old TOAW CD, and here I am.
Noticed you had TOAW Workshops threads here on the forum, would like to sign up for those if anyone is still doing any.
Hope this great game is going to experience a resurgence, and that I might be able to eventually learn enough to provide you good PBEM challenges. Maybe I can get my co-warrior Dan to join in as well. There are still active players here, are there?
N1775L Looking for an opponent? do you have a scenario in mind? S
Hello. I've been away several years. But I'm looking for opponents for TAOW 3. And where did the old ladder go? I can't find it.


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|Child Safety Program
From even before they're born, until they're grown, you promise to take the very best care of your child. Saint Francis Medical Center is your partner in keeping your child safe. Nearly 1,000 babies are born at Saint Francis Medical Center each year. We treat many infants and children in our emergency room, operating rooms and pediatrics department—many as the result of preventable injuries. We have a special interest in seeing children grow into healthy adults.
Child Safety Seats Inspection Program
The Child Safety program at Saint Francis Medical Center offers child safety seat inspections and safety education for any age of child. Whether a newborn, a toddler or a "big kid," we can help you learn which type of car seat is best for your child and the type of vehicle you're driving. We'll teach to you install it correctly and buckle up your child securely.
Our education isn't only for parents. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, child care providers and anyone who is charged with safely transporting a child are welcome to make an appointment.
Car Seat Inspections (By Appointment Only)
To Schedule:
Spanish Language appointment assistance is available by calling (308) 398-6065.
Appointment Confirmation sheets in English can be found here.
If you are expecting a new baby:
Bike Helmets and Safety
Summer is a great time for outdoor activities, but take a minute to be safe. Use the guides below to help you make sure your kids' have properly fitted bike helmets for summer fun. Learn more here.


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ARROYO GRANDE, Calif. - Cal State Northridge sits fifth while junior Remylee Molyneux is tied for 16th-place after the opening round of the Cal Poly Invitational Monday at Cypress Ridge G.C.
As a team, the Matadors nearly matched their team season-low for 18 holes as CSUN posted a score of 311. CSUN's season-low team round of 308 came in the final round of the SCU Colby Classic last week. The Matadors trail team-leading Northern Arizona (301) by just 10 strokes heading into Tuesday's final round.
Molyneux, who is seeking her second top-20 finish in five fall tournaments, is currently tied for 16th at three over-par 76. Despite being tied for 16th, Molyneux is only five shots behind a trio of players who share the lead at two under-par 71.
Clariss Guce, who has been CSUN's most consistent player over the last month, is just outside the top-20 as the junior is tied for 21st at four over 77. Margo Dionisio is tied for 26th at five over 78 to round out three Matadors among the top-26 players.
Sophomore Sharon Shin is tied for 38th after an opening round seven over 80 and Alanna Loyd is tied for 63rd at (+11) 84.
The final round is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 a.m.


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Mom Houston
News, tips and fun stuff for savvy Houston parents.
Monthly Archive for April, 2013
Pearland sextuplets turn 1
David and Lauren Perkins of Pearland had six times the celebrating to do this weekend, as their six little boys and girls marked their first birthday Saturday. We've been to many birthday parties that are just for one child, and we have to give them a round of applause for pulling off this epic party. […] [Read More]
Houston's best spots for family photos
When it's time for this year's portrait session, where do you want to go? We're rounding up our readers' favorite settings for family photography. To participate, send a photo to email@example.com with the name of the family (just one person is ok, too), the photographer's name and the location. If you have any suggestions about […] [Read More]
7-year-old boy goes to great lengths to get out of church
A 7-year-old boy in Utah took his father's car on a joyride by running a stop sign and attracting the attention of police. The police followed him as he hit speeds up to 40 miles per hour, navigated a right turn and parked the car in his driveway before running into the house. Why did […] [Read More]
Toddler expresses the true joy of Ikea shopping
If you've ever taken a toddler shopping at Ikea (and if you're a parent of limited or even somewhat limited means, we know you have), you know that your first hope is that you will get through the entire store without suffering an epic tantrum or having to buy 12 of Ikea's $5 toys to […] [Read More]
Share your favorite Houston photo spot
Readers, does your family have a favorite photo spot in the Houston area? We're compiling a roundup of the best places in Houston to take family photos. Send photos with the location, your name and the photographer to firstname.lastname@example.com and we may use them in our gallery. [Read More]
List of books people hate the most released for National Library Week
The annual Banned Book week isn't until September, but just in time for National Library Week, the American Library Association has released the top ten books challenged the most in 2012. A challenge means a person has filed a written request with a library or a school that a book be restricted or removed because […] [Read More]
Video: Woman tosses her baby aside to fight on bus
Police in Hartford, Conn. are investigating a woman who threw her baby girl across a moving bus so she could get into a fistfight with another passenger. The woman and the other passenger can be seen arguing on the bus security video as the mother holds her child. The unidentified woman tells the other person […] [Read More]
Baby names 2013: What's hot?
By Amy Graff/The Mommy Files What baby names are hottest out of the gate for 2013? Nameberry, a site where expecting parents go for baby name inspiration, has compiled a list of 13 unusual and surprising names attracting significantly higher views in the first quarter of this year versus the same time period last year (see above). In other […] [Read More]
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Charming Dining Nook
An upholstered bench makes good use of minimal space.
A simple banquette makes for comfortable seating in this small dining nook, and turns into a perfectly-sized dessert table for Christmas. The burnt-oak, x-back wood chairs add rustic flair and mimic the finish on the heavy-framed mirror.
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Unlike the fathers of the nineteenth-century English musical renaissance, who slavishly paid homage to the German masters, composers Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958) and his friend Gustav Holst threw off the shackles of the Teutonic school and drew their inspiration from the neglected tradition of folk-song. The result was the creation of a distinctly English musical voice that evoked the cultural heritage of a nation. In particular, the sheer beauty, vitality, and aesthetic force of Vaughan Williams' works, which include The Lark Ascending, Greensleeves, the Tallis Fantasia, and nine symphonies, connected listeners to a timeless past and gave them a common national spirit, especially during turbulent, war-torn times. Here, Simon Heffer charts the course of Williams' remarkable life and career. Heffer traces Williams' privileged upbringing, his years of painstaking studies with Hubert Parry, Max Bruch, and Maurice Ravel, his promotion of folk-song and editorship of the English Hymnal, his close association with Holst and George Butterworth, and his emergence as the leader of English musical life. Williams was a genius of musical invention who is still beloved and admired in Britain and around the world.
Simon Heffer is a political columnist for the Daily Mail. He is the author of Moral Desperado: A Life of Thomas Carlyle; Power and Place: The Political Consequences of King Edward VII; Like the Roman: The Life of Enoch Powell; and Nor Shall My Sword: The Reinvention of England. He lives in Chelmsford, England.