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Powerful Words
The words we use matter. Here are some examples of words or phrases that are especially powerful.
Once upon a time. The most powerful words in storytelling. No matter how long the story goes, or how complex it becomes, every story has a beginning.
You. Because in business or in life, the more you can focus your efforts on other people, the more they will care about what you say.
"Yes and…" The two words that keep improvisation going. Hint: they can also keep any conversation going.
What's next? Because when you finish a project or complete an accomplishment, you move on to another. It's all about process.
(See the end of this classic Roger Federer video for a great example of "What's next?")
You are not alone. Because this is what all of us desperately want: companionship amidst the confusion. Runner-up: "We're all in this together."
Now. There's no time like the present. Because there's plenty of time… but what if there's not?
The end. These powerful words can be sad. Because everything has an ending—eventually—we should labor to do as much as we can, and enjoy the ride as long as we can, before it's over.
Feel free to share some powerful words of your own.
*My best wishes to everyone on the U.S. East Coast and anyone else affected by Hurricane Sandy this week. Powerful words: stay safe!
Image: deVos
[Quelle/Source (Link): The Art of Non-Conformity » 3×5]


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Best Photographers of the Year
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This item was published more than 1 year ago. For a current list of events, visit Upcoming & Past Events .
The Tunxis Philosophy Club will host a talk on "Flying Spaghetti Monsterism" by the Rev. Mandy Dutkiewicz on Friday, Nov. 22 from 5-7 p.m. in Room 6-127. The community is invited, along with new students, alumni of the Club and those who have taken college philosophy courses over the past few years.
Dutkiewicz, a Tunxis student, will discuss a number of topics including why some believe the international decrease in pirates is the cause of global warming; how it may be possible that when scientists carbon date a fossil, an invisible force akin to spaghetti and meatballs is present,"changing the results with His Noodly Appendage;" and what role cosmic intoxication during the creation of the universe may have played in spawning many of the problems we face in life.
Please bring a noodle dish to share—the club hopes to have a number of international dishes. Email Philosophy Club president Arda Tezcan at email@example.com by Monday, 11/18 if possible, with a note of the dish you will contribute.


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We have updated our Privacy Policy and encourage you to read it by clicking here.
Last time in the blogging series about doing an RFP for outsourcing an IT project (see the template here), I looked at the idea of needing to get to know your vendor. This is a great time to ask a few hard questions. It's really easy to ask the fluff questions that generate glowing answers. But that won't really tell you what you need to know.
During the RFP process you want to learn as much about the vendor as possible. You have to remember that every contract will have trouble. And what will make the relationship worthwhile is how you deal with that trouble. If every contract were hunky-dorey, then it really wouldn't matter which vendor you pick. You really want to dig in and figure out how they work, where they might not be a good match, what kinds of problems are they likely to have - and how that aligns to your project and needs.
I've provided about 25 questions you can ask. They are important and will help you flesh out the fit that the various vendors have to your organization and project. But you can dig deeper and harder. No vendor will admit to anything illegal or utterly worthless in an RFP response. But you can ask questions that go deeper...
Questions like this will allow you to understand how they vendor reacts when the relationship is stressed out. Just like in a personal relationship, you don't know how strong it is until your first real fight. See if you can figure this out with your potential vendors BEFORE you sign a multi-year or multi-million (pick your favorite currency) deal.
Like I said, it's not easy to get someone to talk about their warts. But it's worth it to you if you can get there. So don't be shy. And don't let your vendors off the hook!
Every day my job brings me a wealth of observations about life in a technology company. Whether by observing office politics or by translating my hobbies, I gain insights into what works and what doesn't. My goal is to share these insights (protecting the guilty and innocent alike) to encourage you to engage deeply in your passions for greatness in your own life and career.
Learn more about my writing at Dennis-Stevenson.com


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Blazing Sword Wins Washington Park 'Cap
Stonehedge Farm's 6-year-old gelding Blazing Sword used a ground-saving trip under jockey Jose Rivera II to earn a one-length victory in the $250,000 Washington Park Handicap (gr. II) Saturday at Arlington International. Over a fast track, the Kathleen O'Connell trainee completed the 1 1/8 miles in 1:50.59.


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Austinseo company5115362
จาก สารานุกรมไอดอลญี่ปุ่น
Link acquisition is acontinuous investment which helps your site; business and brand grow very steadily and consistently over time. Do not thinkof itas something that will give your efforts an SEO boost- it's crucial to view link building more as a continuous and integral process of your online marketing efforts. We at Business Network Designsprovide high grade online marketing services and can help build and maintain a healthy link building strategy for your site. austinseoaustinseo agency search engine optimization austintx search engine optimization austintx


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Documentation quiz for managers
It's important to know the kind of language managers should—and should not—use in documentation. Test your knowledge by answering "True" or "False" to the following statements:
_____ 1. An employee is caught stealing company equipment. It's best to list the termination reason as "gross misconduct" since "stealing" could be defamatory.
_____ 2. An employee with a disability is having trouble meeting job standards. It's better to list her performance as "satisfactory" so she doesn't become discouraged.
_____ 3. A disciplinary warning should always contain language that spells out the potential penalties the employee faces if he repeats the offense.
_____ 4. If an employee is terminated for poor performance, the best way to disqualify him from unemployment benefits is to use terms such as "unsatisfactory work" or "totally inefficient."
Performance reviews are a legal minefield, and laws and benchmarks change constantly. Protect your organization – and yourself. Order your copy of The Manager's Guide to Effective, Legal Performance Reviews today.
1. FALSE. It's not defamatory to list the truthful reason for an employee's termination and to share that on a need-to-know basis. Sharing the reason with other employees or the public could be defamatory.
2. FALSE. This type of thinking can land a manager in the middle of a disability discrimination lawsuit if the employee has to be fired and then fights your performance reasoning in court. So be honest. Spell out the problems and attempt to find solutions.
3. TRUE. Courts typically uphold claims if they believe an employee was not properly warned about the possible consequences of future violations. So spell out in writing exactly what the employee can expect from further violations.
4. FALSE. Terms such as "unsatisfactory work" are the very ones that could result in unemployment benefits. Such payments are typically withheld only when employees are terminated for gross insubordination or willful misconduct.
There are so many documentation mistakes that put you at risk. The Manager's Guide to Effective, Legal Performance Reviews is your documentation guidebook. Get this step-by-step guide on everything from writing the job description to establishing clear benchmarks to documenting performance to communicating effectively. Order your copy here.
To be successful, employee feedback should not be an annual or even quarterly event. It should be a routine part of a manager's day.
In the same way, managers should make documentation of employee performance, behavior and discipline a regular habit.
This documentation can be informal as handwritten notes tossed in an employee's file, but they should always include the dates and names of all parties involved. As with any documentation, stick to the facts and stay objective. Avoid opinions.
A manager's documentation should be built on three basic principles:
1. Immediate. Memory is a shaky defense in court, so make sure to take notes right after an incident occurs. That makes it much harder for an employee to cast doubt on a manager's motives if the written explanation comes right after the action.
2. Accurate & believable. When an outside observer (judge, jury or EEO investigator) is called to judge your side of the story, detailed observations add authenticity. The more specific the documentation, the greater the credibility. Hang your hat on facts, not impressions, to reflect objectivity.
For example, instead of noting that "Bill's work has been sloppy lately," it's better to note, "In each of his last three reports, Bill had at least two important accounting mistakes that needed revisions."
3. Agreement. If both sides agree on what happened, it's much tougher for either side to later change claims. Try to get employees involved in the documentation process.
Finally! Painless Performance Reviews …
If you've ever "umm'd and ahh'd" your way through an employee's performance review, you know how painful and unproductive that can be. But now, you can conduct a flawless performance review with ease.
All you need is the strategies and techniques you'll find in The Manager's Guide to Effective, Legal Performance Reviews. You'll get the hands-on tools you need to conduct fair and accurate performance reviews. For instance:
Turn your most dreaded management task into a positive experience for you and your employees. If this book doesn't help you do this, then we'll refund every penny. You have nothing to lose, and only motivated and happy employees to gain. Order your copy today.
- 5 evaluation tools to turn around problem employees
- 8 strategies for clear and realistic performance standards
- The 6 mistakes to avoid in your next performance review
- The right way to identify employee shortcomings and how to overcome them
- The "secret" test your job descriptions must pass or you face a nasty lawsuit
- What you must do before the review session even starts
- And much more!


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Increasingly, students are finding it more convenient to do their ACT prep online. The fact that they don't have to fit an ACT class into their already packed schedule, that they can study whenever is good for them, and that they can work at their own pace are all reasons students cite when asked why they prefer to do their ACT prep online.
And ACT prep online has come a long way even in just the last 3 years.
ACT course at Method Test Prep has hundreds of video explanation in which students can watch an experienced tutor solve questions step by step. This is especially helpful for math questions where it is often difficult to grasp a tough question simply by reading a step by step explanation or listening to an audio explanation.
Automated Progress Tracking
Our ACT prep online contains a vocabulary builder section which keep track of which words students have already mastered and which words they still need to practice. No more carrying around a large stack of flashcards. At any time, students can simply print the list of words they still need to memorize and the word appears on one side of the page and the definition on the other side. This way, students can take their own personal word list with them when they are not in front of the computer.
Our ACT prep online course is broken into 15 minute tasks; students can sit down for realistic chunks of time and complete a couple of tasks in the simple checklist we provide. Of course, humans don't learn new material best when they are forced to concentrate for 2 hours at a time. ACT prep online allows students to break their learning in to shorter chunks.
Stay ahead of the curve. Receive study tips, test taking strategies, and exam news directly to your inbox.
Tom EhlersTom graduated from Princeton University and completed Princeton's Teacher Preparation Program. Early on, he developed a passion for learning which led to the inception of Method Test Prep. Running this small business allowed Tom to really focus on each student's needs and spend countless hours tutoring with the belief that all students have the ability to succeed.
What Do you Think?
Drop us a comment


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This traditional outdoor light is perfect for hanging in covered walkways and entryways.More Details >
The Newbury Collection of outdoor lighting is inspired by elegant old world designs. Intricate scrollwork joins fluted surfaces to create this distinctive look. The frame is crafted with Vivex, a material twice the strength of cast resin. It's non-corrosive, UV-resistant and backed with a 3-year limited warranty. This outdoor hanging light features an Oriental bronze finish and seedy glass. From Maxim Lighting.


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Q I booked a flight on Emirates Airlines to Manila, with connections at New York JFK and Dubai, all on one ticket. The second leg, a JetBlue flight, was delayed and I missed my connection. Emirates got me to Manila, but when I showed up for my return flight, I was informed that my itinerary had been canceled because I had been deemed a "no show." I ended up stranded in Dubai for 22 hours, and it took me 65 hours to get home to Buffalo via Dallas and Pittsburgh. Why was my flight canceled, and am I entitled to denied-boarding compensation per U.S. law?
A First, let me say this. You didn't have enough time to comfortably connect. Two-and-a-half hours is not enough time to make a domestic-to-international connection at New York's JFK, especially in winter over the busy holiday travel period. You should never accept such a tight connection. Next time, insist on the maximum layover you can get (four hours sounds about right). If your first flight is on time, great. Enjoy the airport. Read a book. Get a day pass to the lounge. It's worth it.
Second, if you do miss your connection, do not get on the rebooked connecting flight without a printout of your complete new itinerary in hand, showing a confirmation of your return segments. Assume that the airline will cancel all of your return flights (even though they're not supposed to do that). Don't wait until you show up for the return to discover you're stranded.
Now to your specific situation. No, U.S. denied-boarding compensation does not apply in Dubai.
Why was your return flight canceled? I contacted both Emirates and JetBlue, and although both are now offering some sort of compensation, I have to say I'm not satisfied, and neither should you be. (Emirates is offering to pay for your out-of-pocket expenses, which is great, except it doesn't compensate you for the agony of a 65-hour ordeal getting home; JetBlue is offering a $100 credit, to which I say "big deal.")
Each airline, in the most polite possible terms, is blaming the other for not "protecting" your return flights. As soon as your inbound JetBlue flight was recognized as being late, both airlines should have realized that you would miss your Emirates connection from JFK, and both should have immediately worked to protect your return flights. Whether because of human error or poorly coordinated computer systems, this was not done.
I think you're entitled to a refund of the return portion of your flight homeward. And I'm shocked that Emirates refused you hotel and meals in Dubai and made you pay your fare from Dallas to the East.
Today's column comes from George Hobica of www.airfarewatchdog.com.


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Localmotive Wooden Streetcar Toy Train
Localmotive Wooden Streetcar Toy Train
An authentic-looking magnetic wooden streetcar train toy imagined and designed by a New Orleanian that's compatible with most wooden trains & tracks like Thomas the Tank Engine & Brio. For ages 3 & up.
- LocalMotive Toys wooden trains have been tested by independent, accredited testing laboratories. These tests insure our trains have met or exceeded the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) F963 toy standards for lead and heavy metals, flammability and sturdiness.
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Inspiration and Healthy Competition Abundant
The first annual ANNIKA Invitational Europe came to a close on Sunday, with Swedish National team member Linnea Strom taking first place. Earlier this summer, Linnea won the European Championship. Strom clinched the top spot on the last few holes, making for a very exciting finish! Strom along with the second place finisher My Leander, and third place finisher Leslie Coots will receive an exemption to the ANNIKA Invitational in Orlando this January.The tournament was very successful and well received by all in attendance. Great competition and an exciting finish, paired with typical Swedish fall weather in the high 50's made this tournament one to remember.
The Foundation's goal was to inspire, educate and provide an arena for competition for European junior golfers. Inspiration was provided by having Annika on hand, along with stories from a guest speaker Caroline Larsson, a young female amputee who lost her leg to cancer at only 22 years-old. Education was in the form of skin care, fitness, and nutrition sessions, and the competition was brought to the table by the players themselves. All the Foundation objectives were accomplished (if not exceeded!) making this event first class.
The ANNIKA Invitational Europe continues the goal of the Foundation to provide opportunities for aspiring junior golfers, while also promoting a healthy active lifestyle to youth. We are already looking forward to the 2nd annual ANNIKA Invitational set to take place next year at Landskrona GK, August 7-9, 2013.


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Another good pic. Nice!
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At least ECsurf isn't quoting the bible on us and asking for free surfboards for his church camp!!
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i did just got home. .. was a fun session .. well worth the drive! I left at 11 when the wind kicked up too
You've got to see the irony in the post you quoted. ExtraCheesy comes in fronting, putting on a facade of kindness. Once a few people make light-hearted jests all of the sudden he drops the act and lets us know how he really feels. Come to find out this jabrozo (patent pending) thought no one here was worth even a measly piece of doodoo. Then here you come, a traitor from our very own ranks, to defend your two-faced friend.
It's hard not being a part of the cool crowd, well I imagine it is anyway I wouldn't know. I'm like that new kid at school that moves in and is friends with you for the first day until he realizes you aren't cool and then has to ignore you because he is just naturally so cool it's in his nature to be a part of the cool crowd. I probably won't wave to you or anything from now on, roar, but don't take it personal. If you move up in coolness maybe we could be friends one day. I know, seems impossible right? Just remember anything is possible through the power of god almighty, ah-men.


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Is This Texting Stairway Lane Smart or Stupid?
We've all seen them: those annoying people who text and walk and never bother to look up. Could that be a thing of the past, though?
We've all seen them: those annoying people who text and walk and never bother to look up. Could that be a thing of the past, though?
Forget about imagining what life would be like if dogs could talk. Let's think a little more 21st century and see what life would be like if dogs could text.
Kids today. They sure know their texting.
You and I both know that in our day to day lives here in Mid-Missouri, driving is pretty much required. You can't get around too far without some kind of vehicle...
You really do spend your life staring at a tiny screen in your hand. A new study found the average person checks their phone 103 times a day...
The fight over convincing motorists not to text and drive may have taken a turn for the better in one state.
The dangers of texting and driving are well known, which makes the action of one school bus driver that much more shocking.
A man who was texting and driving found himself you-know-what out of luck.
So kids, a while back I asked you guys what you've been using your mobile devices for. Now me, I guess I'm simple and I don't have much need for fancy internettin' on the go. I have a laptop and a desktop, and that seems to be good enough for me. Boyfriendo, meanwhile, has a fancy phone AND a tablet, and God knows what he uses those for. I don't think I want to know. Anyway, I DO want to know about what you use it for!
Although it became a widely used form of communication only recently, texting is actually a decades-old technology. In fact, it celebrated its 20th birthday on Monday, which makes it older than most of the kids who use it. OMG!


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|Numéro de publication
|Type de publication
|Numéro de demande
|Date de publication
|31 déc. 1996
|Date de dépôt
|21 juin 1995
|Date de priorité
|21 juin 1995
|État de paiement des frais
|Numéro de publication
|Bradley K. Davis, Johannes O. Voorman, Joao N. V. L. Ramalho, Patrice Gamand
|Cessionnaire d'origine
|Hewlett-Packard Company, Philips Electronics N.V.
|Exporter la citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Citations de brevets (6), Référencé par (52), Classifications (23), Événements juridiques (7)
|Liens externes: USPTO, Cession USPTO, Espacenet
This invention relates to computer data storage systems and, in particular, to a device and method for testing the electrical integrity of a disk drive read/write head assembly and associated circuitry.
Computer data storage systems that employ disk drives have conventionally used a single, electrically inductive head for reading and writing data to and from the disk. More recently, it has been known to use one or more magnetoresistive (MR) head elements for reading and an inductive head element for writing. Obviously, regardless of the type of head element employed, the quality and reliability of such head components are critical to data storage systems. As such, read/write heads and associated circuitry may be subject to specific electrical testing during the manufacturing process to identify and weed out defective units, as well as improve the manufacturing and handling process.
Prior methods of testing read/write heads have been to physically probe the heads with test contacts after manufacture to determine whether they have the proper electrical characteristics. For example, probe testing identifies improper head element resistance, determines electrical continuity, open circuits, short circuits, and can identify electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Often, however, testing is only performed after completion of the manufacturing process and after a failure has occurred because probe testing such fragile and electrically sensitive components during the manufacturing process is difficult and time consuming.
On a conventional inductive, single read/write head, only two wires are associated with the head for electrical connection and testing purposes. However, in more recent data storage systems employing dual MR read heads and/or multiple heads in head stack assemblies (HSA), a significant number of more wires and electrical connections exist and thus the difficulty of testing the heads and the care with which testing must occur is compounded. Probe testing such systems can easily cause head element damage or peripheral circuitry damage.
On the one hand, testing must be reliable and efficient to avoid excessive testing costs and to improve manufacturing production flows, product quality, and product reliability. On the other hand, it is extremely important that testing be performed carefully to avoid sensitive head damage. However, conventional methods of testing read/write head elements and associated circuitry has not afforded a means for cost effective testing during the manufacturing process. Accordingly, objects of the present invention are to provide an improved system and method for testing disk drive read/write head elements and connecting circuitry.
According to principles of the present invention in its preferred embodiment, a preamplifier circuit for a disk drive read/write head (or HSA) includes multiple test modes to enable electrical testing of the preamplifier, the read/write heads, and/or associated circuitry without physically probing the components or circuitry. Communication between the preamplifier and a host controller provides for test mode selection and test mode enablement within the preamplifier.
Testing occurs using only the normal interface connector to the head disk assembly (HDA) in which the preamplifier and HSA are embodied. Properties such as electrical resistance, ESD, preamplifier bond wire connection integrity, head bondwire and solder joint integrity, and connections from the head slider to the preamplifier leads are all tested. Testing occurs without probing to provide efficient, reliable, and cost effective manufacturing and testing benefits of the read/write heads, flex assembly, HSA, and HDA.
Other objects, advantages, and capabilities of the present invention will become more apparent as the description proceeds.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the present invention preamplifier test circuit and system.
FIG. 1 represents a block diagram of the present invention preamplifier test circuit 10 and system 15 for testing a computer data storage system disk drive read/write head 20 (or HSA) and associated circuitry without physically probing the components or circuitry. The system includes preamplifier 10, read/write head 20, host controller 30, and voltmeter (or multimeter) means 50. The preamplifier circuit 10 includes serial interface memory registers 25 which are used for enablement of multiple test modes for electrical testing of preamplifier 10, read/write heads 20 (or HSA), and/or associated connecting circuitry.
Typically, preamplifier 10 is electrically attached to a flexible or rigid printed wiring substrate (not shown), often referred to as a flex assembly. Circuit lines embodied in the flex assembly communicate between preamplifier 10 and an external connection, such as a conventional 24 pin connector. An advantage of the present invention is that not only does testing occur without probing but also without increasing circuit lines in the flex assembly. Specifically, testing occurs using the existing flex assembly and external interface connection components.
Where electrical functions and connections are described in this disclosure, it is understood that it is possible, within the scope of this invention, to use equivalent circuits to perform the described functions. As an example, a transistor can be used as a diode or resistor. Likewise, two electrical components which are connected may have interceding components which physically separate the two components. "Connected" is, therefore, intended to include components which are in electrical communication despite intervening components.
Preamplifier 10 has a serial input means which includes: (1) registers 25 for receiving and storing predetermined digital signals, including a test mode signal indicative of the preamplifier being placed in a selected test mode, and (2) a serial communication interface signal line SDATA connected to host controller 30 for transmitting the predetermined digital signals, including the test mode signal, to registers 25.
Preamplifier 10 also has an output means shown generally at 35, including signal lines Rdx and Rdy, for presenting an output signal referenced with respect to selected test circuitry in response to a test current applied. In the instant case, the output signal will be referred to as a voltage. However, the output signal could just as easily be modified to be a current, or a representation of voltage or current (for example, in a digital format).
Inputs to serial interface registers 25 include: CLK, the bus clock; SEN, serial bus enable; and SDATA, serial bus data. Programmed instructions from SDATA designate addressing and control of the various registers 25 for correct receipt and use of appropriate data over the SDATA signal line. In a preferred embodiment, memory registers 25 include, but are not limited to, the following designated uses:
Power Control--for selection of multiple power modes for preamplifier circuit 10, such as sleep, standby, active, and test. For example, in sleep mode, all circuits are inactive with the following exceptions: the serial interface, the circuit that forces the data registers of the serial interface to their default states at power-up, and the circuit that fixes the DC level of Rdx-Rdy, which is required when operating with more than one amplifier to common Rdx-Rdy lines. In standby mode, the current consumption is below 1 mA. Transients from standby mode to active mode are two to three orders of magnitude shorter than from sleep to active. All amplifiers can be quickly switched from standby mode to active mode, and all head switch times can be kept almost as short as in the case of operation with a single amplifier in active mode. Active mode is either the read mode or write mode as determined by R/W* signal line.
Head Select--for selection of which read/write head device to be used and/or tested; for example, which read/write head device in a head stack assembly (HSA) employing multiple read/write head devices.
Read Current--designates the current applied to the read head for normal read operations and for specific testing of the read head and associated circuitry during test mode operations.
Write Current--designates the current applied to the write head for normal write operations and for specific testing of the write head and associated circuitry during test mode operations.
Test Mode--designates the preamplifier is in test mode and also designates the selected test to be performed; namely, the test mode identifies which circuitry is selected for testing purposes, such as specific circuitry in the preamplifier itself, the read/write heads, and/or any connecting associated circuitry.
Table 1 shows examples of the various serial stream data bit configurations for using registers 25 and for enabling testing according to the present invention. Although eight (8) bits are used in this example, it is obvious that variations of the number of bits used could likewise be implemented. However, as shown, bits 0-4 are data bits indicative of a specific functional use in one of the specified plurality of registers 25 that is addressed by bits 5-7 in the serial stream. For example, a serial bit stream of "110xx100" indicates that the Test Mode register identified by address "110" (bits 5-7) is set with data bits "xx100" (bits 0-4). This serial bit configuration identifies the functional test labeled Analog Head Test Active which, in this case, defines the read/write heads as the selected circuitry to be tested.
TABLE 1__________________________________________________________________________ BIT ADDRESSES DATAREGISTER 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 REMARKS/MODE__________________________________________________________________________Power Control 0 0 1 x x x 1 1 Active Mode (Write or Read)Head Select 0 1 0 x 1 0 0 1 Head H9 SelectedTest Mode 1 1 0 x x 0 0 0 Not in TEST ModeTest Mode 1 1 0 x x 0 0 1 Digital Test ActiveTest Mode 1 1 0 x x 1 0 0 Analog Head Test Active 0 1 0Test Mode 1 1 0 x x 1 1 0 Read Amplifier Test Active . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Read Current 0 1 1 d4 d3 d2 d1 d0 lmr = 1/2 * (10 + 16 * d4 + 8 * d3 + 4 * d2 + 2 * d1 + d0)Write Current 1 0 0 d4 d3 d2 d1 d0 lwr = (20 + 16 * d4 + 8 * d3 + 4 * d2 + 2 * d1 + d0)__________________________________________________________________________ x = Don't care.
Essentially, in response to any functional test mode signal received and identified in Test Mode register 25, a controlled test current is initiated in the selected circuitry to be tested. Specifically, a digital control word held in the appropriate Read or Write Current register is converted to an appropriately controlled analog test current through respective digital to analog converter (DAC) circuitry--namely, through read digital to analog converter (RDAC) 40, or write digital to analog converter (WDAC) 45, respectively. The resultant analog signal is then multiplexed to the selected test circuitry, and the voltage referenced across the selected circuitry (at terminals 80 kWx and kWy, or 90 kRx and kRy, respectively) is multiplexed and presented at output terminals 35, Rdx and Rdy.
As part of test system 15 of the present invention, a voltmeter 50 or similar circuitry senses the voltage at output terminals 35 for determining an electrical property with respect to the selected circuitry based on the voltage signal sensed. Although voltmeter 50 is shown, it is obvious that similar circuitry or other means (such as a multimeter) could be equally embodied within preamplifier 10, host controller 30, or some other environment to detect and provide necessary measurements. The electrical properties of the selected test circuitry that are determined by testing with preamplifier test circuit 10 and/or test system 15 include, but are not limited to, electrical resistance, continuity, electrostatic discharge damage, bond wire connection integrity, solder joint integrity, and peripheral circuitry connection integrity.
Although FIG. 1 shows read/write head 20 having dual magnetoresistive (MR) read head elements 55 and 60, and single inductive write head element 65, the present invention is equally applicable for testing any conventional disk drive read/write head configuration or other applicable circuitry. For example, the present invention could easily be adapted (with obvious modifications) to test a single inductive read/write head, or a single MR read head in conjunction with a single inductive write head. Furthermore, although the FIGURE shows a separation between dual read head elements 55 and 60, they are actually only nanometers apart so they can read a common disk bit. Moreover, disk 70 is shown in phantom for reference purposes only and is indicative of any conventional disk drive (or platter) that is accessed by read/write head 20.
Although read/write head 20 shows only one read/write head assembly, the present invention is equally applicable to an HSA which, typically, includes "k" plurality of heads 20, each adjacent to its respective disk. Accordingly, with respect to each connecting signal line, the "k" prefix (i.e., kRx, kRy, kGr, kWx, and kWy) is used for indicating which of the "k" plurality of read/write elements 20 in the HSA is being used or tested. Specifically, the read head connections are kRy, kRx, and kGr, and the write head connections are kWx and kWy.
Before further identifying the more specific test functions and methods of the present invention, it should be noted that the input/output signals of preamplifier 10 include but are not limited to the following:
HUS is a head unsafe signal for inhibiting read and write signal functions to the heads when the heads are unsafe for activity.
WDIx and WDly are differential write data input signals.
CLK, SEN, and SDATA are as previously described.
R/W* is for read/write selection, where a "high" signal is "read" mode and a "low" signal is "write" mode.
Rext. is a nominal 10 k Ohm external resistor, mounted on the flex assembly supporting preamplifier 10, and its value depends on the particular application.
Rdx and Rdy are the normal "read" output signals. However, in a test mode (as identified through Test Mode register 25), the voltage signal referenced across the circuitry selected for test purposes (such as the read/write heads) is multiplexed out to Rdx and Rdy for analysis and determination of electrical properties associated with that test circuitry.
Vcc is the supply voltage, such as a conventional five (5) volts.
GND is the preamplifier ground signal.
Vcc' is a 5-12 volt supply to write driver A5.
The key internal components of preamplifier 10 in write circuit 75 include a write buffer WBUF, a flip-flop FF for selectively reversing the write polarity, a multiplexor WMUX, and amplifiers A4 and A5 for transmitting write signals to write head element 65.
The typical electrical component and operating parameters of preamplifier 10 relevant to the read/write head test mode are listed in TABLE 2.
TABLE 2__________________________________________________________________________ VALUE AND UNITSPARAMETER MINIMUM NOMINAL MAXIMUM__________________________________________________________________________supply voltage, Vcc 4.5 5 5.5Vwrite driver voltage, Vcc 5 12 13.2Vread element resistance, Rmr 15 20 30ΩRmr mismatch (between elements) <15%head lead resistance, Rs 0 2 4Ωhead lead inductance, ls 0 20 50 nhread element voltage, Vmr <0.5Vdifferential signal, dVmr 0.4 0.8 2 mVwrite element + lead inductance, Lh' 0.1 0.2 0.5 μhwrite element + lead resistance, Rh' 16Ωwrite element + lead capacitance, Ch' <5 pfread element current, lmr = lx = ly 5 to 20.5 maread element current, step size 0.5 mawrite element current, lw 20-51 mawrite element current, step size 1 ma__________________________________________________________________________
Read and write currents are controlled and regulated by an on-chip generated, temperature-stable, reference voltage 95 (1.3V, approximately), which is available at pin Rext. This voltage is dropped across an external resistor (10 k Ohm) to form a reference current for the read head bias currents, Ix and ly, and the write head bias currents Iw.
The read current RDAC is programmed through the serial interface Read Current register 25 according to the formula:
Ix=ly=1/2(10 kOhm/Rext)(10+16*d4+8*d3+4*d2+2 *d1+d0)mA,
where d4-d0 are data bits (either 0 or 1) in the Read Current register (see Table 1). At "power up" all bits are set to 0, which results in a default read current of 5 mA. The adjustable range of the read currents (5 mA-20.5 mA) is centered around an offset value to increase the resolution for the given number of bits.
The write current magnitude is programmed by Write Current register 25 and, similarly, controlled through the on-chip WDAC and the reference voltage Rext. The write current programming is described by:
Iw=(10 kOhm/Rext)(20+16 *d4+8*d3+4*d2+2 *d1+d0)mA,
where d4-d0 are bits (of value 0 or 1) in the Write Current register (see Table 1). The adjustable range of the write current (20 mA-51 mA) is centered around an offset to increase the resolution for the given number of bits. At power up, all bits are set to zero, corresponding with an initial write current Iw of 20 mA.
MR read head elements 55 and 60 are labeled .sup.⊖ Rmrx.sup.⊕ and .sup.⊕ Rmry.sup.⊖, respectively. The ⊕ and ⊖ symbols are used to indicate that these resistor elements are differentially connected. These elements are also non-linear devices. A magnetoresistive effect is a change in resistance (of a current carrying device) that occurs when acted on by a magnetic field. An increase in magnetic field may cause either an increase or a decrease in element resistance, depending on the element configuration. In the case of the two MR read elements shown, one element increases in resistance while the other decreases in resistance in response to an applied current.
Owing to the symmetry of the dual read head elements 55 and 60 (dual-stripe) arrangement, even-order harmonics are suppressed. The read bias currents, Ix and ly, which are generally equal for each head, are also programmed to further reduce nonlinear distortion with a maximized read signal.
Under normal operating (non test) conditions for preamplifier 10, Test Mode register 25 is disabled as described in Table 1. This mode enables the preamplifier to perform its normal functions for the specified Power Control mode, whether it be active, standby, or sleep mode, respectively. A brief description of normal preamplifier operation is included here to more fully recognize that, in the preferred embodiment, the novel test aspects of the present invention are included as an enhancement to normal read/write head preamplifier functions.
Relative to normal read/write operations, when Power Control register 25 is in write, standby, or sleep mode, the read circuitry is at least partially deactivated. Similarly, when Power Control register 25 is in read, standby, or sleep mode, the write circuitry is at least partially disabled.
In read mode (R/W* ="high"), the write circuitry is inactive to limit power while reading, and the selected read head is connected to a multiplexed low noise read amplifier A1. A programmable current Ix,Iy (defined by Read Current register 25) is forced through the selected MR read head 55 and 60. The read amplifier A1 has a low impedance input kRx-kRy and a low-impedance output Rdx-Rdy.
Ambient magnetic fields from disk 70 adjacent to MR read elements 55 and 60 result in a relative change in the MR resistance, dRmr/Rmr. This change produces a current variation dlmr=Imr*dRmr/Rmr, where Imr is the bias current in the MR element. The current variation is amplified to form the read data output signal voltage, which is available via closed switch S1 at Rdx-Rdy. Switch S2 is open in normal operation.
The ratio dRmr/Rmr, and in the ideal case the output voltage, is independent of the geometry of the MR stripe. In practice, however, imperfections, such as series resistances in the connections to the MR stripes and in the leads between the MR elements and the amplifier, and also the non-zero input resistance of the amplifier, make it less than the ideal case.
In write mode (R/W* ="low"), the "read" circuitry is inactive, or at least partially inactive, to limit power while writing. A programmable current Iw (defined by Write Current register 25) is forced through the selected two-terminal inductive write head 65. The push-pull output drivers A4 and A5 yield near rail-to-rail voltage swing for fast current polarity switching.
In a departure from normal operation, Test Mode register 25 identifies various test modes for testing selected circuitry to which preamplifier 10 is connected. The test modes can be used during various manufacturing operations related to the read/write heads, flex assembly, HSA, and HDA for testing purposes. Three exemplary test modes (see Table 1) are Digital Test Active, Analog Head Test Active, and Read Amplifier Test Active. Although it is not the intent of this disclosure to identify all potential test modes, it is the intent to identify and describe the fact that multiple test modes are identifiable using Test Mode register 25, and each test mode describes specific, selected circuitry for testing purposes according to principles of the present invention.
For example, in Digital Test Active mode, the data received into registers 25 through the SDATA serial input line is verified for accuracy of receipt.
As another example, in Read Amplifier Test Active mode, a read amplifier such as A1 is tested for conformance to its electrical properties. Namely, the output of first stage read amplifier A1 is connected directly (not shown) to RBUF and Rdx-Rdy, bypassing the second and third stage amplifiers, A2 and A3, which are made inactive. The operation of the first stage amplifier A1 is then checked for electrical properties such as common mode voltage, coupling capacitor leakage, bandwidth, and frequency response.
Although almost any circuitry could be selected for test purposes under principles of the present invention, specific testing functions and methods are detailed here with respect to read/write heads 20. However, it is obvious and understood that testing of any other selected circuitry under a respective test mode follows similar principles to testing of the read/write heads and associated circuitry as described herein.
As shown in Table 1, the Analog Head Test Active mode identifies that a read/write head element is to be tested. As previously discussed, in normal (non test) operation, analog read data is passed back to a drive electronics board in host controller 30 through a flex assembly connector on lines Rdx and Rdy. However, during this Analog Head Test Active operation, diagnostic signals from the selected read/write head test circuitry are multiplexed to output connectors Rdx and Rdy. Specifically, voltage levels of terminals 90 (kRx, kRy) and 80 (kWx, kWy), which connect to the heads 20, are multiplexed to Rdx and Rdy to be monitored externally by monitoring device 50 or the like.
Similar to normal read/write head operations, test mode operation requires the R/W* signal to fit the test mode. Namely, for testing of read heads 55 and 60, R/W* must be "high", and for testing of write head 65, R/W* must be "low".
While in read mode (R/W* pin high), the DC voltage at the positive (non-center-tap) side of kRx and kRy of MR elements 55 and 60 of the active head 20 is buffered, level shifted up, and present at outputs Rdx and Rdy. While in write mode (R/W* pin low), the DC voltage across terminal pins 80 kWx and kWy of inductive write element 65 of the active head 20 is also buffered, level shifted down, and present at outputs Rdx and Rdy. By selecting different active heads (channels) of the preamplifier using Head Select register 25, all connections and voltage levels can be determined for the entire heads, preamplifier, and host controller interface.
In this head test mode, read/write head element currents Ix, Iy, and Iw are separately controlled by their respective programmable Read/Write Current registers 25 (as shown in Table 1) and RDAC and WDAC. By varying these current levels Ix, Iy, and Iw, various electrical properties can be determined, such as resistance of the head elements, continuity of the connecting circuitry, and integrity of solder, bondwire, and lead connections.
When a test mode is initiated through Test Mode register 25 to test the MR read head elements 55 and 60, switch S2 is closed and S1 opened, and the controlled test current (programmed through Read Current register 25) is passed through each read element 55 and 60. The resulting read currents Ix and Iy create the voltages at kRx and kRy which are not amplified in test mode through A1-A3, but are presented at Rdx and Rdy with a voltage level shift of approximately 1.4 volts. The level shift is accomplished by a pair of transistors in each of the diode drop circuits 85 in series with switch S2.
Testing of write head element 65 is performed similar to testing of read head elements 55 and 60. Namely, in response to the test mode signal initiated through Test Mode register 25, a controlled current (programmed through Write Current register 25) is passed through write head element 65 and the differential voltage that occurs at terminals 80 kWx and kWy is presented at output terminals 35 Rdx and Rdy.
Typically, however, electrical properties are determined by programming a first current through the selected circuitry and reading the respective voltage at Rdx and Rdy, and then programming a second current through the selected circuitry and reading the respective voltage at Rdx and Rdy. The resistance can be determined from a measurement of ΔV/ΔI or (V1 -V2)/(I1 -I2) by accounting for and subtracting effects of other parasitic resistances from (V1 14 V2)/(I1 -I2). For example, if the first read current level I1 were set at a current Ix=ly=5 mA, the second read current level I2 could be Ix+ΔIx where ΔIx is any value between 0.5 and 15.5 mA in 0.5 mA increments (Ix=5 to 20.5 mA), and the measured voltages would be V1 and V2, respectively. In a similar manner, if the first write current value were set at I1 =20 mA, the second current level I2 could be Iw+ΔIw where ΔIw is any value between 1 and 31 mA in 1 mA increments (Iw=20 to 51 mA). In both cases, the current levels are programmed by bit data d4-d0 entered into the respective Read/Write Current registers 25 as shown in Table 1.
Another important feature of the test modes is the ability to sense and track catastrophic ESD damage (shorts) to the very sensitive, close proximity, MR read heads. A major challenge presented to head manufacturers in using MR heads is electrostatic discharge resulting from the handling of the MR heads and assemblies in which they are contained. ESD damage is one of the most common modes of failure of read/write heads to date. By detecting shorts between the two elements caused by ESD over-stress, head stack assemblies (HSA) can be screened for damaged parts. In addition, changes in the manufacturing process which causes ESD damage can be quickly detected before the heads or HSAs are assembled with the disk drive.
ESD shorts are detected by sensing a low differential resistance between the two MR elements 55 and 60. This is accomplished by measuring the voltage between Rdx and Rdy with equal currents (Ix=Iy) applied in each element, and then repeating the measurement using unequal currents (Ix≠Iy). A zero difference between VRdx-Rdy (with equal currents) and VRdx-VRdy (with unequal currents) may indicate the presence of a short between elements perhaps from ESD damage.
What has been described above are the preferred embodiments for a preamplifier circuit for a computer data storage system wherein multiple test modes enable the preamplifier circuit to electrically test the read/write heads and related circuitry without physically probing. Although the discussion has been focused in reference to testing a single inductive write head element and dual MR read elements, it should be noted again that the present invention test mode functions are equally applicable and effective on other types of head elements and other electrical components and associated circuitry, with certain electrical property exceptions and modifications as obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, although the present invention description focuses on monitoring a voltage output signal while generating a controlled current, it is equally applicable for monitoring a current output or power output while generating a controlled voltage input, with certain minor component and circuit modifications as obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art. Finally, it will be obvious that the present invention is easily implemented utilizing any of a variety of hardware components existing in the art.
Accordingly, while the present invention has been described by reference to specific embodiments, it will be obvious that other alternative embodiments and methods of implementation or modification may be employed without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention.
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|Classification aux États-Unis
|Classification internationale
|Classification coopérative
|Classification européenne
|5 sept. 1995
Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY, CALIFORNIA
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|29 juin 2000
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Situated in Ubud, this spa resort is within 1 mi (2 km) of Rudana Museum, Pura Taman Pule, and Agung Rai Museum of Art. Agung Rai Museum of Art and Gajah Mas Gallery are also within 2 mi (3 km).
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Along with 2 outdoor pools, this resort has a full-service spa and a restaurant. Free WiFi in public areas is provided, as well as free self parking, a free area shuttle, and a free manager's reception. Other amenities include a bar/lounge, a business center, and a meeting room.
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All 67 rooms offer minibars, room service, and LED TVs with cable channels. Other amenities available to guests include coffee makers, phones, and free toiletries.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!Opens in a new window
Suly Vegetarian Resort and Spa
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Suly Vegetarian Resort and Spa features 2 outdoor swimming pools and a children's pool. The resort offers a restaurant. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Guests can enjoy a complimentary manager's reception on select days. A computer station is located on site and wireless Internet access is complimentary.
Business-related amenities at this 3-star property consist of a business center and a meeting room. This business-friendly resort also offers a terrace, tour/ticket assistance, and a garden. A complimentary area shuttle within 1 km is available for guests. Limited complimentary onsite parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
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Where to Eat
The resort offers a complimentary manager's reception on select days.
Suly Vegetarian Resort and Spa has a restaurant on site.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
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2 outdoor swimming pools are on site along with a children's pool.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
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Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the resort's full-service spa. Services include hot stone massages, Thai massages, massages, and facials. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy, reflexology, and thalassotherapy.
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Check-in time ends at midnight
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- Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: IDR 60000 per person (approximately)
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Hotel Name
- Suly
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- Suly Resort Ubud
- Suly Ubud
- Suly Hotel Gianyar
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- Suly Vegetarian Resort
- Suly Vegetarian Ubud
- Suly Vegetarian
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text:
2008Q3 Reports: SIGANN
SIGANN, the ACL Special Interest Group for ANNotation, was approved as a new SIG at last year's ACL Executive meeting in Prague. The SIG is an umbrella for research and activities associated with all aspects of the creation and use of linguistic annotations for language data, and is especially interested in fostering the identification of best practice guidelines for linguistic annotation.
SIGANN was inaugurated at the first Linguistic Annotation Workshop (LAW), was held in conjuction with ACL 2008 in Prague. At that meeting, over 200 people signed up as members of the SIG. SIGANN now officially organizes the LAW, the second of which was held at LREC 2008 in Marrakech.
SIGANN has established a mailing list (firstname.lastname@example.com) to communicate with members, a web page (http://www.cs.vassar.edu/ sigann), and a wiki (http://nlp.cs.nyu.edu/wiki/corpuswg).
Two working groups have so far been established:
(1) Corpus Working Group: This group has identified and made available a small (40K) corpus representing several genres of written and spoken text, drawn from the Open American National Corpus (OANC) and therefore freely redistributable and reusable. The group is sponsoring a "shared corpus task†by calling for researchers to annotate the corpus for any phenomenon of interest, in any format, and to contribute the annotations to SIGANN. All of the annotations will be made freely available via the SIGANN site. The corpus was strategically identified so that it is part of the data being annotated by existing projects, including the ULA and ANC MASC, thereby ensuring that a base of annotations for the data exist.
(2) Best Practices working group: This group was established to begin work on the identification of best practices for linguistic annotation. The group's first (basic) report will be published this summer, after input is gathered at the annual SIGANN meeting at the LAW in May, 2008 in Marrakech.
SIGANN Officers:
President: Nancy Ide, Vassar College
Secretary: Adam Meyers, New York University
SIGANN Committee:
Inderjeet Mani (MITRE Corporation)
Antonio Pareja-Lora (SIC, UCM / OEG, UPM)
Sameer Pradhan (BBN Technologies)
Manfred Stede (Universitat Potsdam)
Nianwen Xue (University of Colorado)
The 2nd LAW was one of the most highly attended workshops at LREC. The 3rd LAW is currently planned to be held at ACL 2009 in Singapore, possibly in conjunction with CONLL.


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Photo Galleries
Image 24 of 27
A man casts his vote at a polling booth in Potocari, near Srebrenica, Sunday. Bosnians, voting in local elections, are likely to keep in power nationalist parties reflecting ethnic rivalries, 17 years after war ended.
Dado Ruvic/Reuters
Image 24 of 27
© The Christian Science Monitor. All Rights Reserved.


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WASHINGTON, June 16 (UPI) -- Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, says he wants federal legislation requiring people seeking welfare or unemployment benefits to pass a drug test first.
Hatch intends to attach his proposal to legislation extending the social safety net during a time of economic stress, The Salt Lake Tribune reported. He said Tuesday he will try to get the Senate to attach his amendment to the $140 billion bill extending social programs and tax breaks.
He said his idea could reduce the nation's debt and help battle drug addiction, the Tribune reported.
"This amendment is a way to help people get off of drugs to become productive and healthy members of society, while ensuring that valuable taxpayer dollars aren't wasted," Hatch said. "Too many Americans are locked into a life of a dangerous dependency not only on drugs, but the federal assistance that serves to enable their addiction."
An advocate for low-income people in Utah called the proposal "outrageous" and "immoral."
"If people who need all kinds of help can't get certain kinds of help, that is just not right," said Linda Hilton of the Crossroads Urban Center in Salt Lake City.
Hilton said she couldn't fathom the idea of denying help to a person with alcohol dependency and she said she worries it could make an entire family suffer for the addiction of a parent, the Tribune said.


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Do Adobe CS6 programs work on new MacBook Pros?
I'm planning on getting a MacBook Pro, mainly for music, video, and animation making/editing, and I'd wanted to get some Adobe programs as well. The thing is, I don't want to be part of the Creative Cloud thing, so will DVD-ROMs of Flash CS6
or Photoshop CS6 work on the new MacBook Pros?
- Asked by Adam B from Hampstead
2 Answers from the Community
Best Answer:
As of today, Adobe CS6 software is still being sold in Apple stores. I recommend purchasing software as soon as you can before Adobe releases the new Creative Cloud.
- Answered by Lacey B from Atlanta
- May 22, 2013
- Answered by Sarah P M from Charleston
- May 29, 2013


text:
Zhang X, Song W. The role of APP and BACE1 trafficking in APP processing and amyloid-β generation. Alzheimers Res Ther. 2013 Oct 8;5(5):46. PubMed.
Please login to recommend the paper.
I think that BACE1 antagonists should act in combination with some drug that boosts or maintains the muscle spindle structure so that BACE inhibition does not hamper motor coordination.


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Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869)
L'Enfance du Christ op. 25 (1853-54)
Yann Beuron (tenor) - Narrator
Stephan Loges (baritone) - Joseph
Véronique Gens (mezzo) - Virgin Mary
Alastair Miles (bass) - Herod/Ishmaelite Father
Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and Choir/Robin Ticciati
rec. Berwaldhallen, Östermalm, Sweden, 11-14 December 2012
Robin Ticciati's credentials as a Berliozian are already rock-solid. Berlioz has played a major part in his first few seasons as principal conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and he has made sensational recordings of both the Symphonie Fantastique and Nuits d'été with them. He also conducted L'enfance du Christ in Edinburgh during the same season as he did that Symphonie Fantastique, so the work is by no means new to him. For this recording, though, he moves to Sweden, and the results are definitely worth writing home about.
Ticciati is clearly deeply in love with Berlioz's music. He has a great ear for the unfolding shape of the composer's score. He shapes each phrase lovingly and with a great ear for detail. The first thing you notice is the unusual sound he elicits from an orchestra that is by no means known for its ability to play in period style. He gets the strings to play with minimal vibrato, which lends remarkable colour to the whole performance. Sometimes it can sound austere, and that's appropriate when depicting Herod's torments or the perils of the Holy Family in Saïs. However, it also makes them sound light on their feet when they need to, and there is a dance-like quality to the scene in Part Three when the Ishmaelite's servants tend to the needs of their new guests. The sound of the winds is full of pictorial detail during the scenes for the Holy Family on their own, and the archaic sounding chords that introduce the final scene are very atmospheric.
It isn't just the orchestral colour that is remarkable, though, but also Ticciati's ear for Berliozian rhythm. For example, there is an irresistible sense of swing to the march that opens the first part which, together with the soothsayers' cabbalistic dance, reminds us that Berlioz was an expert at painting in sound. That march then gives way to rhythmic, angular swirling in strings as we gain access to Herod's troubled mind, each string chord jabbing into Herod's conscience with a stabbing sforzando. Ticciati also brings out Berlioz's skill as a dramatist by transitioning brilliantly, and with the minimum of fuss, from Herod's paranoia-racked palace to the beauty and simplicity of the Holy Family, with the winds taking the strain of the scene painting.
It is principally because of Ticciati's control of the orchestra that this disc is worth acquiring. However, his singers are excellent too. Alastair Miles sings Herod's opening aria with a sense of pained darkness, but he is also a good vocal actor: he rages with believable fury and there is palpable relief in his voice when he discovers that his visitor (at the start of track 5) is only his guard. Véronique Gens sings with great tenderness throughout; she is always subtle and understated, never remotely approaching a prima donna, but instead the very image of the pure and lowly mother. Likewise, Stephan Loges also sings with burnished warmth and all the tenderness of a devoted father. Both seem consciously to give way to the silent figure of the Christ child himself. Yann Beuron makes the (slightly strange) role of the narrator come alive, and links the mysticism of the story with down-to-earth practicality, making it more accessible to us as listeners. The contribution of the chorus is also excellent. They sing the famous Shepherds' Farewell with homely gusto, and they are very convincing, rather mysterious angels, set back at just the right distance from the microphone so as to be subtle and distinctive but still beautiful. The final chorus is really magical; rich and beautiful but also transparent, and fading to a wonderfully subtle pianissimo conclusion.
By now it goes without saying that Linn's recorded sound and beautiful packaging are outstanding, including the two booklet essays. Texts and translations are included, too. This L'enfance serves only to enhance Ticciati's reputation, and is worthy of comparison with any in the catalogue.
Simon Thompson
Previous review: John Quinn


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03-19-2009, 05:04 PM #1Junior Member
- Join Date
- Sep 2008
- Posts
- 21
Removing the courtesy lights in my 08 LSV, wanting to add LEDs
Hello, I'm looking at adding some LEDs to my boat this spring, and want to swap out the courtesy lights to blue LEDs. My question is, are there led(s) in the existing light that can be removed and a new blue led(s) put in.
If so, how do you get the thing off? Ive pulled the carpet back, and see it is held in by screws, but i can get the chrome piece off the front and I'm afraid ill break it if i try to hard the wrong way. What has everyone else done with those courtesy lights? Is there a replacement that covers the entire hole?


text: Back Story: Our world changed forever March 17, 2008. AJ had been experiencing migraine headaches for several weeks. The morning of the 17th he seized and was rushed to the ER where they life-lined him by helicoptor to Riley Hospital in Indianapolis. He had a brain tumor that had burst near the brain stem. Lots of miracles happened Monday. Chris & I were in Las Vegas for business and had to rush back at the mercy of the airline. We finally got to the hospital around 9:00 that evening. Luckily AJ was in Gods hands that day and some very wonderful surgeons. 7 months later with 4 surgeries, 31 radiation/chemo combo treatments behind us we have embarked on his mait. chemo routine. We have 6 cycles of that. 5 down and 1 to go. (It was a diagnosis of Medullablastoma btw) He is doing well. His last MRI came back with just a ghost of something, hopefully just scar tissue. They were able to remove approx. 95% of the tumor with surgery back in March/April. We are supposed to be done with his chemo in December (what a great Christmas present!) His last MRI in October showed no changes. Praise the Lord! Onward! We received the good news a couple months ago that AJ had been approved for his Make A Wish, which is a 4 night 5 day Disney Cruise. They talked a lot to him and told him he might be happier going to DW because it would be a longer trip for him, but he has been enthralled with ships and pirates for quite some time thanks to Pirates of The Carribean! We went to DW in 2004 and he saw the magnificent Disney ships in port at that time as well, so I don't know if that was an influence or not. I guess I should give you the cast, right? I'm new here so I don't know if I'm doing this right. (are we supposed to pick characters?) AJ (age 8 - wish child), would like to be Pluto (I think literally - he was pretending to be a dog today when the nurse was checking his breathing) Chris (Dad) would have to be Donald Duck Austin (13 yo brother), maybe Grumpy dwarf? J/k, might have to come back to him. Mom (me), AJ says Minnie Mouse (I don't think I'm that cute though) AJ and I AJ and Chris Brother Austin (taken this summer at a friend's pool) My current fave picture of AJ with Lucy (his special dog that has helped him through a lot of this. We got her for him in June after radiation treatments were over) We will be setting sail on Feb 1, 2009! (if all goes as well of course). We have heard they may pick us up and take us to the airport in a limo, so that has the boys twittering as well. That is all for now. AJ and I are in the hospital right now getting his 5th round of chemo and fun in the sun seems a long way away. Any advice offered we would love as we're new to cruising. We already reserved the Atlantis water adventure as our Naussau expedition. Chris & Austin plan on parasailing at castaway cay. AJ and I pretty much just want to relax on the beach there. More soon.


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Basestation filter goes for superconductor film
Post a comment
Toshiba has developed a tunable filter for wireless basestations that uses a high-temperature superconductor. It is designed to eliminate interference between applications using similar frequencies.
The superconductor tunable band-pass filter operates at around 2GHz. The filters are microstrip-line type, with a superconductor made of yttrium, barium, copper and oxygen (YBCO), grown on a dielectric substrate.
The device uses two filters, one for the top and the bottom of the required band edge. The tunability is achieved by mechanical control of the substrate.
The filters use a superconducting material because it minimises the filter loss, according to Hiroyuki Fuke, a senior engineer at Tosh-iba's R&D centre in Kawasaki.
"The filter loss is determined by the surface resistance. The surface resistance of the YBCO material in the microwave frequency region is more than two orders of magnitude lower than that of ordinary metal," he said.


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SECRET AVENGERS Newest Recruit Before All-New Relaunch: M.O.D.O.K.!?
There's a fine line between good and evil, black and white, and Marvel's Secret Avengers lives in that grey area.
Secret Avengers is currently in the last arc before the series relaunches with an "All-New Marvel Now!" #1 in March, and series co-writer (and sole writer come March) Ales Kot is pushing the limits on both the S.H.I.E.L.D.-led team as well as the various parties in A.I.M. In the recent Secret Avengers #12 Mockingbird was outed as a mole inside the ranks of A.I.M., while back on the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier, Maria Hill got some unexpected guests in the form of surrendering A.I.M. operatives and the surprise appearance of M.O.D.O.K.
Newsarama sat down with Kot to go over the events so far in Secret Avengers, and looks forward to the events of the volume finale and onward through March's Secret Avengers #1 relaunch. Along the way Kot goes into detail about the complicated ethics of spies and terrorists, and where M.O.D.O.K. stands in this seemingly eternal war between S.H.I.E.L.D. and A.I.M.
Newsarama: Ales, a lot happened in the most recent Secret Avengers #12, and I'm going to start at the ending – M.O.D.O.K. here and apparently the secret hand that guides A.I.M. Can you talk about bringing him in as the key adversary in this story-arc?
Ales Kot: M.O.D.O.K. is no adversary! M.O.D.O.K. loves you!
What we're looking at here -- no major spoilers -- are the previously invisible dynamics of A.I.M. coming to light. Your assumptions about M.O.D.O.K. being the secret hand that guides A.I.M. and being the key adversary are, at this point, just assumptions. Let's not forget that Andrew Forson, the Scientist Supreme of A.I.M., was -- and maybe still is -- running the show since Secret Avengers #1. Abandoning that part of the story would go against its nature.
So, maybe the question to ask here in order to get to the core of what is going to happen next is -- what kind of a relationship do Forson and M.O.D.O.K. have?
Nrama: From just his plain visual look to how he carries himself, M.O.D.O.K. seems like a interesting character to write. What's the experience been like for you?
Kot: M.O.D.O.K. is such a player. He arrives excited to manipulate. He is interested in being Midas, perhaps even identifies with him, desiring to transform everything into an opportunity. M.O.D.O.K. has a pure Goldman Sachs mindset -- people are resources, nothing more. It seems there are no ethics to be found in that twisted body on those mechanical spider legs.
And that's the thing -- is that really the entire image, or are we vilifying someone, simplifying who they are out of laziness? How much about M.O.D.O.K. do we not know? What is going through his epic gigantic head? Why does someone decide to become a terrorist for hire, a manipulator? M.O.D.O.K. might be much closer to Walter White / Heisenberg than you ever considered before. We are all so, so complex. Robbing the beings in the story of their complexities would be disrespectful, and as I love and respect them, it's not on my mind at all. We have such sights to show you.
Nrama: There are a lot of players on the good guy and bad guy side of things in Secret Avengers, so just how big will M.O.D.O.K.'s role be here?
Kot: One of the things I am very much enjoying about writing Secret Avengers is the ethical instability of the entire scenario, the morality play aspect of it, the fact that all characters are, or at least seem, somehow compromised. "Good guys" and "bad guys" is a black and white view of the Universe and I don't subscribe to it.
M.O.D.O.K.'s role will be big. Crucial, even, in a way.
Nrama: So how would you describe the situation on the battlefield for S.H.I.E.L.D. and A.I.M. as M.O.D.O.K. steps into view here?
Kot: Five hundred shades of grey and mind games. Dead bodies start piling up.
Nrama: Getting past the giant elephant-sized head in the room, I also wanted to ask about other villains – namely Mentallo. I really enjoyed that scene of him on the beach, and really gives us more juicy character for that guy. What's your thoughts on him and the role he plays in this?
Kot: Mentallo kept himself in the background. Being one of A.I.M.'s ministers meant being on the High Council of A.I.M., yes, and it also meant watching the power games unfold, while at the same time becoming friends with the Taskmaster. Seeing all the scheming from the remove, being on a beautiful island while people around you think up new ways to kill people, finding a friend to play ping-pong with, especially when nol one wanted to play ping-pong with you for such a long time, and now you feel accepted, and at the same time you're wondering if…well, I should stop before I say too much.
Mentallo loves sunsets.
Nrama: In this issue we also learned Mockingbird has been outed inside A.I.M., and is in a pretty bad predicament here. The title's arc, "How to M.A.I.M. a Mockingbird" doesn't promise good times to come for Bobbi, so what can you say about her storyarc going forward here?
Kot: Nothing except "I am not sorry. It needed to be done."
Nrama: Since we last talked to you you've settled in quite well as co-writer on Secret Avengers. How'd it feel to be in the thick of it now, working with Nick, the artists and the editors?
Kot: It's a wonderful experience. Nick & I co-plotted "How to MA.I.M. a Mockingbird" together and I write the scripts by myself, which feels just right. There was this moment when we were figuring out #12, and I already thought of M.O.D.O.K. but then I decided not to mention him because I wasn't quite sure, and Nick mentioned M.O.D.O.K. himself, and at that moment I bowed in front of the mighty synchronicity of it. We both wanted him in.
Working with editors Lauren Sankovitch, Jon Moisan and Tom Brevoort -- the entire editorial team -- is inspiring. I value a good editorial team, and this editorial team is not just good, it's great. For example, just today Tom mentioned something that is a beautiful, simple revision of the flow in the new Secret Avengers #1. I don't really want to spoil the details, except that it concerned page/scene flow and Tom's suggestion was to switch some pages around to create a more impactful flow, and once I read the email from him, my gut went "Yes, this is great", because I knew.
And the artists -- I get to work with Butch Guice and Luke Ross on "How to MA.I.M. a Mockingbird" and they work so well together. Butch is doing the first three issues, Luke the last two. The structure of the story supports that choice, as we begin with a spy thriller and move towards a slightly more action-based narrative in the last two issues of the current run. I knew Butch would have a lot of fun with going Jim Steranko on these issues, and he's certainly doing so, however what I did not expect was Luke Ross reinventing himself so utterly. Luke and I had a great Skype conversation before I wrote the first script for him, and we agreed that in order to keep the narrative flow right, his style would move a bit closer to Butch's in terms of the layouts, but in a way that would make Luke happy and would feel entirely his. We discussed what Frank Quitely and Grant Morrison did with the layouts in WE3, the work of JH Williams III., once again Steranko…and then Luke started sending in the pages and I am still grinning when I think of them.
And Matt Wilson on colors? I love his work.
Nrama: And this all leads to March where you and Michael Walsh are relaunching Secret Avengers with a new #1. How does this volume transition to what's coming next?
Kot: It brings the events of this run to a close -- and certain decisions the protagonists make will form the core of what happens next. Spy games take their toll.
Nrama: And this relaunch itself, break down the first issue for us.
Kot: SECRET AVENGERS #1!
With M.O.D.O.K. being somehow involved. Hawkeye being chased on the rooftops of NYC. Black Widow & Spider-Woman hanging out in Russian baths. A very peculiar assassin attacking inside the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier. Phil Coulson and Nick Fury Jr. facing the horrors of deep space. Falling space satellites. Double crossings. Triple schemes. Adrenaline-fueled action scenes. Characters who are not who they seem to be.
It's Mike Walsh on art, Matt Wilson on colors and me on the rest taking you on a fast-paced ride through the ethically grey areas of the Marvel Universe. You will likely laugh. You will likely scream in disbelief. You will likely love reading this comic. I believe in it.
The first issue puts us on the ground, in the air and in the space. The new team is separated and attacked before its first official mission even begins -- and now they all have to fight for their survival.
It won't be easy. Bullets will be shot. Bones will be broken. New truths will be discovered. And as to what comes after that, we are going back to the statement that describes the comic the best:
Run the mission. Don't get seen. Save the world.


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Winning Is Easy On Power 96!
This morning I'd like to make YOU a winner, just like yesterday's winners, Angela Walker & Mark Hanson. This morning I have Bad Grandpa.5 on Digital HD & tickets to comedic hypnotist Kellen Marson, performing this Sat night at 8 @ the Paradise Center for the Arts, up for grabs. Don't miss your chance to win on the Power 96 Morning Show!


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George W. Bush Is First Former Little Leaguer To Become U.S. President
Click here to see Mr. Bush's 1955 LL Roster
includes addresses of participants unless all
participants on the roster are at least 21 years old.
Williamsport, PA - George W. Bush is the second son of a president to win election to the highest office in the land, but he's the first Little League graduate.
As a youth, President Bush played in the Midland (Texas) Central Little League for several years in the 1950s. His mother and father, George and Barbara Bush, were volunteers in the league at the time. In a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey, President Bush cited Little League as providing his fondest childhood memory.
President Bush was apparently a skilled player in his youth, according to an excerpt from a letter written by his father, George Bush, in 1955:
Photo courtesy George Bush Presidential Library
"Georgie aggravates me at times," the elder Mr. Bush wrote to his father-in-law. "I am sure that I do the same to him. But then at times I am so proud of him I could die. He is out for Little League, so eager. He tries so very hard. He has good fast hands and even seems to be able to hit a little."
In a recent letter to Little League, the former president said: "Little League has, indeed, been a big part of (George W.'s) life. ... To say we are proud of George W. is the classic understatement of the year. He has a huge job ahead of him, but he will do his best and I think the country will give him a chance."
Frank Ittner, who was President Bush's coach on the Cubs at Midland Central Little League from 1955 until 1958, spoke about young George W. Bush in a recent interview with Little League Baseball: "He was a good catcher, and you could always rely on him to be there for every game and every practice. He was very dependable."
Other prominent government officials who played Little League as children include: former Secretary of Defense William Cohen, former New Jersey Sen. Bill Bradley, former Vice President Dan Quayle, and Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne. About 30 million people have played Little League since its inception in 1939.
"We're proud that President Bush is a former Little Leaguer and the first to be elected to our nation's highest office," Stephen D. Keener, President and Chief Executive Officer of Little League Baseball, said. "The leadership and teamwork skills he began to learn as a child in Little League have apparently served him well. We wish him, his family, and his administration the very best."
For more information contact:
Lance Van Auken, Director of Media Relations and Communications
Little League Baseball International Headquarters
Media E-mail: email@example.com;
WEB Site: http://www.littleleague.org


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Kim Schlegel Whitman Wants You To Bring Your Own Dessert
This makes me giggle. Kim Schlegel Whitman was on The Today Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda yesterday to share "8 Tips for a 'Cent'sible Wedding." You'll recall that KSW had her own wedding at the Meyerson, complete with the orchestra and the choir. I understand it was an amazing wedding. But 'cent'sible? One of KSW's tips for Kathie Lee and Hoda was to have guests bring their favorite family recipes for a dessert bar. That's the part that makes me giggle.


text: Neil Lawrence is one of Australia?s most respected, and awarded, creative talents.Prior to establishing Whybin Lawrence TBWA in February 1997, Lawrence was Vice-Chairman and Regional Creative Director at Young & Rubicam Australasia.Prior to establishing Whybin Lawrence TBWA in February 1997, Lawrence was Vice-Chairman and Regional Creative Director at Young & Rubicam Australasia.During his time at Y&R, the Sydney office was twice voted Agency of the Year and won a record number of creative awards. Billings grew from $18 million to over $100 million dollars during his tenure. Neil launched his advertising career in Melbourne after graduating from Melbourne University with a BA in Psychology and Politics and a post graduate degree in Social work. He spent a number of years in Asia as Creative Director of Ogilvy & Mather Singapore, producing internationally accliamed work for clients including BMW, American Express, Rolex, Finnair and Lever Bros before moving to Adelaide with Y&R in 1989 where he developed the widely recognised ?Please Consider? campaign for Mitsubishi Motors. He has been voted by BRW magazine as one of the country?s top five Creative Directors for the past five years.Neil is a regular on industry award judging panels having been Chairman of Judges at ATV and in 1998 judged both the Hong Kong and Irish International Awards


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Philosophy Wire by Spiros Kakos [2013-06-17]: An early test for Down's syndrome is developed. With this future mothers will know even earlier if their child-to-be-born has this disease. [1]
Such tests really terrify me. Because they are not performed with the intention to preserve or sustain life, but with the intention to terminate it... It is time for Bioethics to start developing IN PARALLEL with science! We can no longer claim that we develop a test that WE KNOW will result in the death of someone and claim that we are "not responsible" for the possible results!
The need to "know" is urged by a need to kill anything unperfect.
Our civilization is a civilization of (spitirual) death.
We WILL create the perfect body, like Hitler visualized. But when we do, we will have killed its soul...
(c) Philosophy WIRES - Commenting world news from philosophy's perspective…
> Main articles / Κύρια άρθρα > Limits of Science > Όρια της Επιστήμης
> Religion & Science Unification > Φιλοσοφία Επιστήμης & Θρησκείας