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Glossary of Satellite Terms
The mechanism that drives and controls the antenna as it scans the sky for satellites.
Amplitude Modulation (AM)
The baseband signal is caused to vary the amplitude or height of the carrier wave to create the desired information content.
A device used to boost the strength of an electronic signal.
A form of transmitting information characterized by continuously variable quantities, as opposed to digital transmission, which is characterized by discrete bits of information in numerical steps. An analog signal is responsive to changes in light, sound, heat and pressure.
Analog-to-Digital Conversion (ADC)
Process of converting analog signals to a digital representation. DAC represents the reverse translation.
The Canadian domestic satellite system that transmits Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's (CSC) network feeds throughout the country. This system also carries long distance voice and data services throughout Canada as well as some transborder service to the U.S. and Mexico.
A device for transmitting and receiving radio waves. Depending on their use and operating frequency, antennas can take the form of a single piece of wire, a di-pole a grid such as a yagi array, a horn, a helix, a sophisticated parabolic-shaped dish, or a phase array of active electronic elements of virtually any flat or convoluted surface.
Antenna Depth "d"
Antenna depth is the depth of the parabolic antenna. To make this, anchor two nylon lines making two diameter in perpendicular angles. Measure the antenna depth from that crossing until the antenna base.
Antenna Diameter "D"
Antena diameter is the length of the diameter of the parabolic antenna and is indispensable to measure in center line.
Antenna Efficiency "EF"
Antena eficiency is an mesure of how much of the signal is effectively collected by parabolic antenna. The eficiency is determinate by exactness of the antenna surface and inperfections in your surface will go degenerate the signal received from satellite.
Antenna Temperature
Antena temperature is how much of terrestial noise is detected by it. An antenna detect more noise when your elevation reduce.
A cross sectional area of the antenna which is exposed to the satellite signal.
The point in an elliptical satellite orbit which is farthest from the surface of the earth. Geosynchronous satellites which maintain circular orbits around the earth are first launched into highly elliptical orbits with apogees of 22,237 miles. When the communication satellite reaches the appropriate apogee, a rocket motor is fired to place the satellite into its permanent circular orbit of 22,237 miles.
Apogee Kick Motor (AKM)
Rocket motor fired to circulate orbit and deploy satellite into geostationary orbit.
The loss in power of electromagnetic signals between transmission and reception points.
Attitude Control
The orientation of the satellite in relationship to the earth and the sun.
Audio Subcarrier
The carrier between 5 MHz and 8 MHz containing audio (or voice) information inside of a video carrier.
Automatic Frequency Control (AFC)
A circuit which automatically controls the frequency of a signal.
Automatic Gain Control (AGC)
A circuit which automatically controls the gain of an amplifier so that the output signal level is virtually constant for varying input signal levels.
AZ/EL Mount
Antenna mount that requires two separate adjustments to move from one satellite to another;
The angle of rotation (horizontal) that a ground based parabolic antenna must be rotated through to point to a specific satellite in a geosynchronous orbit. The azimuth angle for any particular satellite can be determined for any point on the surface of the earth giver the latitude and longitude of that point. It is defined with respect to due north as a matter of easy convenience.
A method of transmitting and scrambling television signals. In such transmissions MAC (Multiplexed Analog Component) signals are time-multiplexed with a digital burst containing digitized sound, video synchronizing, authorization, and information.
A terrestrial communications channel linking an earth station to a local switching network or population center.
The process of reducing the input and output power levels of a traveling wave tube to obtain more linear operation.
Band Pass Filter
An active or passive circuit which allows signals within the desired frequency band to pass through but impedes signals outside this pass band from getting through.
Bandwidth "BW"
A measure of spectrum (frequency) use or capacity. For instance, a voice transmission by telephone requires a bandwidth of about 3000 cycles per second (3KHz). A TV channel occupies a bandwidth of 6 million cycles per second (6 MHz) in terrestrial Systems. In satellite based systems a larger bandwidth of 17.5 to 72 MHz is used to spread or "dither" the television signal in order to prevent interference.
The basic direct output signal in an intermediate frequency based obtained directly from a television camera, satellite television receiver, or video tape recorder. Baseband signals can be viewed only on studio monitors. To display the baseband signal on a conventional television set a "modulator" is required to convert the baseband signal to one of the VHF or UHF television channels which the television set can be tuned to receive.
The rate of data transmission based on the number of signal elements or symbols transmitted per second. Today most digital signals are characterized in bits per second.
Low-power carrier transmitted by a satellite which supplies the controlling engineers on the ground with a means of monitoring telemetry data, tracking the satellite, or conducting propagation experiments. This tracking beacon is usually a horn or omni antenna.
The angle or conical shape of the beam the antenna projects. Large antennas have narrower beamwidths and can pinpoint satellites in space or dense traffic areas on the earth more precisely. Tighter beamwidths thus deliver higher levels of power and thus greater communications performance.
Slang for a communications satellite located in geosynchronous orbit.
A single digital unit of information
Bit Error Rate
The fraction of a sequence of message bits that are in error. A bit error rate of 10-6 means that there is an average of one error per million bits.
Bit Rate
The speed of a digital transmission, measured in bits per second.
An ordinary television signal consists of 30 separate still pictures or frames sent every second. They occur so rapidly, the human eye blurs them together to form an illusion of moving pictures. This is the basis for television and motion picture systems. The blanking interval is that portion of the television signal which occurs after one picture frame is sent and before the next one is transmitted. During this period of time special data signals can be sent which will not be picked up on an ordinary television receiver.
Block Down Converter
A device used to convert the 3.7 to 4.2 KHz signal down to UHF or lower frequencies (1 GHz and lower).
The area of highest gain in the center of the pattern of a directional antenna.
Business Television
Corporate communications tool involving video transmissions of information via satellite. Common uses of business television are for meetings, product introductions and training.
C Band
This is the band between 4 and 8 GHz with the 6 and 4 GHz band being used for satellite communications. Specifically, the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz satellite communication band is used as the down link frequencies in tandem with the 5.925 to 6,425 GHz band that serves as the uplink.
Carrier to Noise Ratio (C/N)
The ratio of the received carrier power and the noise power in a given bandwidth, expressed in dB. This figure is directly related to G/T and S/N; and in a video signal the higher the C/N, the better the received picture.
The basic radio, television, or telephony center of frequency transmit signal. The carrier in an analog signal. is modulated by manipulating its amplitude (making it louder or softer) or its frequency (shifting it up or down) in relation to the incoming signal. Satellite carriers operating in the analog mode are usually frequency modulated.
Carrier Frequency
The main frequency on which a voice, data, or video signal is sent. Microwave and satellite communications transmitters operate in the band from 1 to 14 GHz (a GHz is one billion cycles per second).
Cassegrain Antenna
The antenna principle that utilizes a subreflector at the focal point which reflects energy to or from a feed located at the apex of the main reflector.
Code division multiple access. Refers to a multiple-access scheme where stations use spread-spectrum modulations and orthogonal codes to avoid interfering with one another.
A frequency band in which a specific broadcast signal is transmitted. Channel frequencies are specified in the United States by the Federal Communications Commission. Television signals require a 6 MHz frequency band to carry all the necessary picture detail.
Circular Polarization
Unlike many domestic satellites which utilize vertical or horizontal polarization, the international Intelsat satellites transmit their signals in a rotating corkscrew-like pattern as they are down-linked to earth. On some satellites, both right-hand rotating and left-hand rotating signals can be transmitted simultaneously on the same frequency; thereby doubling the capacity of the satellite to carry communications channels.
A video processing circuit that removes the energy dispersal signal component from the video waveform.
Clarke Orbit
That circular orbit in space 22,237 miles from the surface of the earth at which geosynchronous satellites are placed. This orbit was first postulated by the science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke in Wireless World magazine in 1945. Satellites placed in these orbits, although traveling around the earth at thousands of miles an hour, appear to be stationary when viewed from a point on the earth, since the earth is rotating upon its axis at the same angular rate that the satellite is traveling around the earth.
Carrier-to-noise ratio measured either at the Radio Frequency (RF) or Intermediate Frequency (IF)
Coder/decoder system for digital transmission.
Ability of multiple satellites to share the same approximate geostationary orbital assignment frequently due to the fact that different frequency bands are used.
Color Subcarrler
A subcarrier that is added to the main video signal to convey the color information. In NTSC systems, the color subcarrier is centered on a frequency of 3.579545 MHz, referenced to the main video carrier.
Common Carrier
Any organization which operates communications circuits used by other people. Common carriers include the telephone companies as well as the owners of the communications satellites, RCA, Comsat, Direct Net Telecommunications, AT&T and others. Common carriers are required to file fixed tariffs for specific services.
A noise-reduction technique that applies single compression at the transmitter and complementary expansion at the receiver.
Composite Baseband
The unclamped and unfiltered output of the satellite receiver's demodulator circuit, containg the video information as well as all transmitted subcarriers.
Contiguous United States. In short, all the states in the U.S. except Hawaii and Alaska.
Cross Modulation
A form of signal distortion in which modulation from one or more RF carrier(s) is imposed on another carrier.
Carrier-to-noise-temperature ratio.
Demand-Assigned Multiple Access – A highly efficient means of instantaneously assigning telephony channels in a transponder according to immediate traffic demands.
Direct broadcast satellite. Refers to service that uses satellites to broadcast multiple channels of television programming directly to home mounted small-dish antennas.
The dB power relative to an isotropic source.
The ratio of the power to one Watt expressed in decibels.
Decibel (dB)
The standard unit used to express the ratio of two power levels. It is used in communications to express either a gain or loss in power between the input and output devices.
The offset angle of an antenna from the axis of its polar mount as measured in the meridian plane between the equatorial plane and the antenna main beam.
A television set-top device which enables the home subscriber to convert an electronically scrambled television picture into a viewable signal. This should not be confused with a digital coder/decoder known as a CODEC which is used in conjunction with digital transmissions.
Reinstatement of a uniform baseband frequency response following demodulation.
The time it takes for a signal to go from the sending station through the satellite to the receiving station. This transmission delay for a single hop satellite connection is very close on one-quarter of a second.
A satellite receiver circuit which extracts or "demodulates" the "wanted "signals from the received carrier.
The modulation level of an FM signal determined by the amount of frequency shift from the frequency of the main carrier.
Conversion of information into bits of data for transmission through wire, fiber optic cable, satellite, or over air techniques. Method allows simultaneous transmission of voice, data or video.
Digital Speech Interpolation
DSI – A means of transmitting telephony. Two and One half to three times more efficiently based on the principle that people are talking only about 40% of the time.
To reduce the frequency of a signal, typically from RF to IF.
The signal that comes down from a satellite to an earth station.
Dual Spin
Spacecraft design whereby the main body of the satellite is spun to provide altitude stabilization, and the antenna assembly is despun by means of a motor and bearing system in order to continually direct the antenna earthward. This dual-spin configuration thus serves to create a spin stabilized satellite.
A term meaning two-way communications: simuntaneous reception and transmission using different frequencies.
Earth Station
The term used to describe the combination or antenna, low-noise amplifier (LNA), down-converter, and receiver electronics. used to receive a signal transmitted by a satellite. Earth Station antennas vary in size from the.2 foot to 12 foot (65 centimeters to 3.7 meters) diameter size used for TV reception to as large as 100 feet (30 meters) in diameter sometimes used for international communications. The typical antenna used for INTELSAT communication is today 13 to 18 meters or 40 to 60 feet.
Echo Canceller
An electronic circuit which attenuates or eliminates the echo effect on satellite telephony links. Echo cancellers are largely replacing obsolete echo suppressors.
Echo Effect
A time-delayed electronic reflection of a speaker's voice. This is largely eliminated by modern digital echo cancellers.
Edge of Coverage
Limit of a satellite's defined service area. In many cases, the EOC is defined as being 3 dB down from the signal level at beam center. However, reception may still be possible beyond the -3dB point.
Effective Isotropic Radiated Power – This term describes the strength of the signal leaving the satellite antenna or the transmitting earth station antenna, and is used in determining the C/N and S/N. The transmit power value in units of dBW is expressed by the product of the transponder output power and the gain of the satellite transmit antenna.
The upward tilt to a satellite antenna measured in degrees required to aim the antenna at the communications satellite. When aimed at the horizon, the elevation angle is zero. If it were tilted to a point directly overhead, the satellite antenna would have an elevation of 90 degrees.
A device used to electronically alter a signal so that it can only be viewed on a receiver equipped with a special decoder.
End of Life of a satellite.
Equatorial Orbit
An orbit with a plane parallel to the earth's equator.
Engineering Service Circuit – The 300-3,400 Hertz voice plus teletype (S+DX) channel used for earth station-to-earth station and earth station-to-operations center communications for the purpose of system maintenance, coordination and general system information dissemination. In analog (FDM/FM) systems there are two S+DX channels available for this purpose in the 4,000-12,000 Hertz portion of the baseband. In digital systems there are one or two channels available which are usually convened to a 32 or 64 Kbps digital signal and combined with the earth station traffic digital bit stream. Modern ESC equipment interfaces with any mix of analog and digital satellite carriers, as well as backhaul terrestrial links to the local switching center.
Ratio of antenna focal length to antenna diameter. A higher ratio means a shallower dish. f/D is a pure number
Frequency division multiple access. Refers to the use of multiple carriers within the same transponder where each uplink has been assigned frequency slot and bandwidth. This is usually employed in conjunction with Frequency Modulation.
This term has at least two key meanings within the field of satellite communications. It is used to describe the transmission of video programming from a distribution center. It is also used to describe the feed system of an antenna. The feed system may consist of a subreflector plus a feedhorn or a feedhorn only.
A satellite TV receiving antenna component that collects the signal reflected from the main surface reflector and channels this signal into the low-noise amplifier (LNA)
Intermediate Frequency. This refers to the low frequency RF level to which the satellite signal is converted before processing inside a receiver, typically 70 MHz.
Frequency Modulation – A modulation method whereby the baseband signal varies the frequency of the carrier wave.
FM Threshold
That point at which the input signal power is just strong enough to enable the receiver demodulator circuitry successfully to detect and recover a good quality television picture from the incoming video carrier. Using threshold extension techniques, a typical satellite TV receiver will successfully provide good pictures with an incoming carrier noise ratio of 7db. Below the threshold a type of random noise called "sparkles" begins to appear in the video picture. In a digital transmission, however, signal is sudden and dramatically lost when performance drops under the threshold.
Focal Length
Distance from the center feed to the center of the dish.
Focal Point
Focal Point is the point where the feedhorn is placed. Focal Point is the distance betwen the antenna base and the input signal point of the feedhorn measured in inches.
A map of the signal strength showing the EIRP contours of equal signal strengths as they cover the earth's surface. Different satellite transponders on the same satellite will often have different footprints of the signal strength. The accuracy of EIRP footprints or contour data can improve with the operational age of the satellite. The actual EIRP levels of the satellite, however, tends to decrease slowly as the spacecraft ages.
Forward Error Correction (FEC)
Adds unique codes to the digital signal at the source so errors can be detected and corrected at the receiver.
The number of times that an alternating current goes through its complete cycle in one second of time. One cycle per second is also referred to as one hertz; 1000 cycles per second, one kilohertz; 1,000,000 cycles per second, one megahertz: and 1,000,000,000 cycles per second, one gigahertz.
Frequency Coordination
A process to eliminate frequency interference between different satellite systems or between terrestrial microwave systems and satellites. In the U.S. this activity relies upon a computerized service utilizing an extensive database to analyze potential microwave interference problems that arise between organizations using the same microwave band. As the same C-band frequency spectrum is used by telephone networks and CATV companies when they are contemplating the installation of an earth station, they will often obtain a frequency coordination study to determine if any problems will exist.
Frequency modulated
A system where the instantaneous radio frequency varies in proportion to the instantaneous amplitude of the modulating signal.
Frequency re-use
A technique that allows two separate TV channels to be broadcast simultaneously on the same transponder by alternating their polarizations (i.e., one channel is horizontally polarized and the other vertically polarized).
A measure of amplification expressed in dB.
Refers to a geosynchronous satellite angle with zero inclination. so the satellite appears to hover over one spot on the earth's equator.
The Clarke circular orbit above the equator. For a planet the size and mass of the earth, this point is 22,237 miles above the surface.
Gigahertz (GHz)
One billion cycles per second. Signals operating above 3 Gigahertz are known as microwaves. above 30 GHz they are know as millimeter waves. As one moves above the millimeter waves signals begin to take on the characteristics of Iightwaves.
Global Beam
An antenna down-link pattern used by the Intelsat satellites, which effectively covers one-third of the globe. Global beams are aimed at the center of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans by the respective Intelsat satellites, enabling all nations on each side of the ocean to receive the signal. Because they transmit to such a wide area, global beam transponders have significantly lower EIRP outputs at the surface of the Earth as compared to a US domestic satellite system which covers just the continental United States. Therefore, earth stations receiving global beam signals need antennas much larger in size (typically 10 meters and above (i.e.30 feet and up). Gregorian Dual-reflector antenna system employing a paraboloidal main reflector and a concave ellipsoidal subreflector.
A figure of merit of an antenna and low noise amplifier combination expressed in dB. "G" is the net gain of the system and "T" is the noise temperature of the system. The higher the number, the better the system. Also called of Merit Factor.
Guard Channel
Television channels are separated in the frequency spectrum by spacing them several megahertz apart. This unused space serves to prevent the adjacent television channels from interfering with each other.
Half Transponder
A method of transmitting two TV signals through a single transponder through the reduction of each TV signal's deviation and power level. Half-transponder TV carriers each operate typically 4 dB to 7 dB below single-carrier saturation power.
Electronic control center – generally located at the antenna site of a CATV system – usually including antennas, preamplifiers, frequency converters, demodulators and other related equipment which amplify, filter and convert incoming broadcast TV signals to cable system channels.
Hertz (Hz)
The name given to the basic measure of radio frequency characteristics. An electromagnetic wave completes a full oscillation from its positive to its negative pole and back again in what is known as a cycle. A single Hertz is thus equal to one cycle per second.
The master station through which all communications to, from and between micro terminals must flow. in the future satellites with on-board processing will allow hubs to be eliminated as MESH networks are able to connect all points in a network together.
INTELSAT Business Services.
The angle between the orbital plane of a satellite and the equatorial plane of the earth.
The International Maritime Satellite Organization operates a network of satellites for international transmissions for all types of international mobile services including maritime, aeronautical, and land mobile.
The International Telecommunications Satellite Organization operates a network of satellites for international transmissions.
Energy which tends to interfere with the reception of the desired signals, such as fading from airline flights, RF interference from adjacent channels, or ghosting from reflecting objects such as mountains and buildings.
ISDN – Integrated Services Digital Network
A CCITT standard for integrated transmission of voice, video and data. Bandwidths include: Basic Rate Interface – BR (144 Kbps – 2 B & 1 D channel) and Primary Rate – PRI (1.544 and 2.048 Mbps).
Isotropic Antenna
A hypothetical omnidirectional point-source antenna that serves as an engineering reference for the measurement of antenna gain.
International Telecommunication Union.
ISO Joint Picture Expert Group standard for the compression of still pictures.
Ka Band
The frequency range from 18 to 31 GHz.
Kilobits per second. Refers to transmission speed of 1,000 bits per second.
Kelvin (K)
The temperature measurement scale used in the scientific community. Zero K represents absolute zero, and corresponds to minus 459 degrees Fahrenheit or minus 273 Celsius. Is also the amount of thermal noise generated by an LNB. The lower the Noise Temperature (in K degree), the better the performance of the LNB. Thermal noise characteristics of LNB are measured in Kelvins.
Kilohertz (kHz)
Refers to a unit of frequency equal to 1,000 Hertz.
A type of high-power amplifier which uses a special beam tube.
Ku Band
The frequency range from 10.9 to 17 GHz.
The frequency range from 0.5 to 1.5 GHz. Also used to refer to the 950 to 1450MHz used for mobile communications.
Leased Line
A dedicated circuit typically supplied by the telephone company.
Low Noise Amplifier (LNA)
This is the preamplifier between the antenna and the earth station receiver. For maximum effectiveness, it must be located as near the antenna as possible, and is usually attached directly to the antenna receive port. The LNA is especially designed to contribute the least amount of thermal noise to the received signal.
Low Noise Block Downconverter (LNB)
A combination Low Noise Amplifier and downconverter built into one device attached to the feed. The LNB converts the entire 3.7 to 4.2 GHz band down to a lower band 950 to 1450 MHz.
LNB Temperature
LNB (Low noise block) temperature is how much of noise is generated by his eletronic circuit. An LNB of low noise is required for an system of good quality. The tipical values is 25 Kelvin degree.
Multiplexed analog component color video transmission system. Subtypes refer to the various methods used to transmit audio and data signals.
The amount of signal in dB by which the satellite system exceeds the minimum levels required for operation.
Master Antenna Television (MATV)
An antenna system that serves a concentration of television sets such as in apartment buildings, hotels or motels.
Megahertz (MHz)
Refers to a frequency equal to one million Hertz, or cycles per second.
Merit Factor
The same that G/T.
Line-of sight, point-to-point transmission of signals at high frequency. Many CATV systems receive some television signals from a distant antenna location with the antenna and the system connected by microwave relay. Microwaves are also used for data, voice, and indeed all types of information transmission. The growth of fiber optic networks have tended to curtail the growth and use of microwave relays.
Microwave Interference
Interference which occurs when an earth station aimed at a distant satellite picks up a second, often stronger signal, from a local telephone terrestrial microwave relay transmitter. Microwave interference can also be produced by nearby radar transmitters as well as the sun itself. Relocating the antenna by only several feet will often completely eliminate the microwave interference.
The process of manipulating the frequency or amplitude of a carrier in relation to an incoming video, voice or data signal.
A device which modulates a carrier. Modulators are found as components in broadcasting transmitters and in satellite transponders. Modulators are also used by CATV companies to place a baseband video television signal onto a desired VHF or UHF channel. Home video tape recorders also have built-in modulators which enable the recorded video information to be played back using a television receiver tuned to VHF channel 3 or 4.
Techniques that allow a number of simultaneous transmissions over a single circuit.
Any unwanted and unmodulated energy that is always present to some extent within any signal.
Noise Figure (NF)
A term which is a figure of merit of a device, such as an LNA or receiver, expressed in dB, which compares the device with a perfect device.
Noise Temperature
The amount of thermal noise present in a device or system, expressed in K degree. The lower the noise temperature, the better.
NTSC – National Television Standards Committee
A video standard established by the United States (RCA/NBC} and adopted by numerous other countries. This is a 525-line video with 3.58-MHz chroma subcarrier and 60 cycles per second.
Orbital Period
The time that it takes a satellite to complete one circumnavigation of its orbit.
Packet Switching
Data transmission method that divides messages into standard-sized packets for greater efficiency of routing and transport through a network.
PAL – Phase Alternation System
The German developed TV standard based upon 50 cycles.per second and 625 lines.
Parabolic Antenna
The most frequently found satellite TV antenna, it takes its name from the shape of the dish described mathematically as a parabola. The function of the parabolic shape is to focus the weak microwave signal hitting the surface of the dish into a single focal point in front of the dish. It is at this point that the feedhorn is usually located. There are two basic types of parabolic dish antennas : The prime focus feed and the Cassegrain feed.
Path Loss
The loss of signal strength incurred between the poit of transmission and the point of reception.
Phase-Locked Loop (PLL)
A type of electronic circuit used to demodulate satellite signals.
A technique used by the satellite designer to increase the capacity of the satellite transmission channels by reusing the satellite transponder frequencies. In linear cross polarization schemes, half of the transponders beam their signals to earth in a vertically polarized mode; the other half horizontally polarize their down links. Although the two sets of frequencies overlap, they are 90 degree out of phase, and will not interfere with each other. To successfully receive and decode these signals on earth, the earth station must be outfitted with a properly polarized feedhorn to select the vertically or horizontally polarized signals as desired.
In some installations, the feedhorn has the capability of receiving the vertical and horizontal transponder signals simultaneously, and routing them into separate LNAs for delivery to two or more satellite television receivers. Unlike most domestic satellites, the Intelsat series use a technique known as left-hand and right-hand circular polarization.
Polarization Rotator
A device that can be manually or automatically adjusted to select one of two orthogonal polarizations.
Polar Mount
Antenna mechanism permitting steering in both elevation and azimuth through rotation about a single axis. While an astronomer's polar mount has its axis parallel to that of the earth, satellite earth stations utilize a modified polar mount geometry that incorporates a declination offset.
Polar Orbit
An orbit with its plane aligned in parallel with the polar axis of the earth
Power Received "EIRP"
The power received EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power) is how much of the signal irradiated by satellite is received on surface of the earth effectively (measure in dBW).
Prime Focus
The type of feed in a parabolic dish antenna which is positioned above the dish as the antenna's focal point. As differentiated from a Cassegrain feed.
PTT – Post Telephone and Telegraph Administration
Refers to operating agencies directly or indirectly controlled by governments in charge of telecommunications services in most countries of the world.
Pulse Code Modulation
A time division modulation technique in which analog signals are sampled and quantized at periodic intervals into digital signals. The values observed are typically represented by a coded arrangement of 8 bits of which one may be for parity.
QPSK – Quadrature Phase Shift Keying
System of modulating a satellite signal.
Rain Outage
Loss of signal at Ku or Ka Band frequencies due to absorption and increased sky-noise temperature caused by heavy rainfall.
Receiver (Rx)
An electronic device which enables a particular satellite signal to be separated from all others being received by an earth station, and converts the signal format into a format for video, voice or data.
Receiver Sensitivity
Expressed in dBm this tells how much power the detector must receive to achieve a specific baseband performance, such as a specified bit error rate or signal to noise ratio.
The antenna's main curved dish, which collects and focuses signals onto either the secondary reflector or the feed.
A sophisticated electronic communications relay station orbiting 22,237 miles above the equator moving in a fixed orbit at the same speed and direction of the earth (about 7,000 mph east to west).
Scalar Feed
A type of horn antenna feed which uses a series of concentric rings to capture signals that have been reflected toward the focal point of a parabolic antenna.
A device used to electronically alter a signal so that it can only be viewed or heard on a receiver equipped with a special decoder.
A color television. system developed by the French and used in the USSR. Secam operates with 625 lines per picture frame and 50 cycles per second, but is incompatible in operation with the European PAL system or the U.S. NTSC system.
The response of an antenna to unwanted signals originating from sources other than the intended transmitter. This type of interference can greatly reduce antenna efficiency.
Signal to Noise Ratio (S/N)
The ratio of the signal power to the noise power in a specified bandwidth, expressed in dB. A video S/N of 54 to 56 dB is considered to be an excellent S/N, that is, of broadcast quality. A video S/N of 48 to 52 dB is considered to be a good S/N at the headend for Cable TV.
Single-Channel-Per-Carrier (SCPC)
A method used to transmit a large number of signals over a single satellite transponder.
An adjustment that compensates for slight variance in angle between identical senses of polarity generated by two or more satellites.
Slant Range
The length of the path between a communications satellite and an associated earth station.
That longitudinal position in the geosynchronous orbit into which a communications satellite is "parked". Above the United States, communications satellites are typically positioned in slots which are based at two to three degree intervals.
A form of noise picked up by a television receiver caused by a weak signal. Snow is characterized by alternate dark and light dots appearing randomly on the picture tube. To eliminate snow, a more sensitive receive antenna must be used, or better amplification must be provided in the receiver (or both).
Solar Outage
Solar outages occur when an antenna is looking at a satellite, and the sun passes behind or near the satellite and within the field of view of the antenna. This field of view is usually wider than the beamwidth. Solar outages can be exactly predicted as to the timing for each site.
The range of electromagnetic radio frequencies used in transmission of voice, data and television.
Satellite signal that falls on locations outside the beam pattern's defined edge of coverage.
Spin Stabilization
A form of satellite stabilization and attitude control which is achieved through spinning the exterior of the spacecraft about its axis at a fixed rate.
A passive device (one with no active electronic components) which distributes a television signal carried on a cable in two or more paths and sends it to a number of receivers simultaneously.
Spot Beam
A focused antenna pattern sent to a limited geographical area. Spot beams are used by domestic satellites to deliver certain transponder signals to geographically well defined areas such as Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico.
Spread Spectrum
The transmission of a signal using a much wider bandwidth and power than would normally be required. Spread spectrum also involves the use of narrower signals that are frequency hopped through various parts of the transponder. Both techniques produce low levels of interference Between the users. They also provide security in that the signals appear as though they were random noise to unauthorized earth stations. Both military and civil satellite applications have developed for spread spectrum transmissions.
Solid state power amplifier. A VSLI solid state device that is gradually replacing Traveling Wave Tubes in satellite communications systems because they are lighter weight and are more reliable.
Minor orbital adjustments that are conducted to maintain the satellite's orbital assignment within the allocated "box" within the geostationary arc.
A second signal "piggybacked" onto a main signal to carry additional information. In satellite television transmission, the video picture is transmitted over the main carrier. The corresponding audio is sent via an FM subcarrier. Some satellite transponders carry as many as four special audio or data subcarriers whose signals may or may not be related to the main programming.
Synchronization (Sync)
The process of orienting the transmitter and receiver circuits in the proper manner in order that they can be synchronized . Home television sets are synchronized by an incoming sync signal with the television cameras in the studios 60 times per second. The horizontal and vertical hold controls on the television set are used to set the receiver circuits to the approximate sync frequencies of incoming television picture and the sync pulses in the signal then fine tune the circuits to the exact frequency and phase.
The transmission bit rate of 1.544 millions bits per second. This is also equivalent to the ISDN Primary Rate Interface for the U.S. The European T1 or E1 transmission rate is 2.048 million bits per second.
T3 Channel (DS-3)
In North America, a digital channel which communicates at 45.304 Mbps.
Time division multiple access. Refers to a form of multiple access where a single carrier is the shared by many users. Signals from earth stations reaching the satellite consecutively are processed in time segments without overlapping.
TI – Terrestrial Interference
Interference to satellite reception caused by ground based microwave transmitting stations.
An electronic device consisting of oscillator, modulator and other circuits which produce a radio or television electromagnetic wave signal for radiation into the atmosphere by an antenna.
A combination receiver, frequency converter, and transmitter package, physically part of a communications satellite. Transponders have a typical output of five to ten watts, operate over a frequency band with a 36 to 72 megahertz bandwidth in the L, C, Ku, and sometimes Ka Bands or in effect typically in the microwave spectrum, except for mobile satellite communications. Communications satellites typically have between 12 and 24 onboard transponders although the INTELSAT VI at the extreme end has 50.
Television Receive Only terminals that use antenna reflectors and associated electronic equipment to receive and process television and audio communications via satellite. Typically small home systems.
The process of adjusting an electronic receiver circuit to optimize its performance.
Traveling wave tube amplifier.
The earth station used to transmit signals to a satellite
Voltage Standing Wave Ratio. A measurement of mismatch in a cable, waveguide, or antenna system.
Very small aperture terminal. Refers to small earth stations, usually in the 1.2 to 2.4 meter range. Small aperture terminals under 0.5 meters are sometimes referred to Ultra Small Aperture Terminals (USAT's)
A metallic microwave conductor, typically rectangular in shape, used to carry microwave signals into and out of microwave antennas.
A set of packet switching standards published by the CCITT.


text: Title: Interview With Sir Edward Ross From: Monty Python's Flying Circus Transcribed By: Jonathan Partington ( firstname.lastname@example.com ) Eric Idle: Good evening and welcome to another edition of It's the Arts. And we kick off this evening with Cinema. Host (John Cleese): Good evening. One of the most prolific film directors of this age, or indeed of any age, is Sir Edward Ross, back in his native country for the first time for five years to open a season of his works at the National Film Theatre, and we are indeed fortunate to have him with us in this studio tonight. Ross (Graham Chapman): Good evening. Host: Edward... you don't mind if I call you Edward? Ross: No, not at all. Host: Because it does worry some people - I don't know why - but they are a little sensitive so I take the precaution of asking on these occasions. Ross: No, that's fine. Host: So Edward's all right. Splendid. I'm sorry to have brought it up. Ross: No, no, please. Edward it is. Host: Well thank you very much for being so helpful. And it's more than my job's worth to, er... Ross: Yes, quite. Host: Makes it rather difficult to establish a rapport - put the other person at his ease... Ross: Quite. Host: Silly little point but it does seem to matter. Still, er, least said the better. Ted, when you first started you... I hope you don't mind if I call you Ted, er, I mean as opposed to Edward? Ross: No, no, everyone calls me Ted. Host: Well of course it's shorter, isn't it. Ross: Yes it is. Host: And much less formal! Ross: Yes, Ted, Edward or anything! Host: Thank you. Um, incidentally, do call me Tom. I don't want you bothering with this 'Thomas' nonsense! Ha ha ha ha! Now where were we? Ah yes. Eddie Baby, when you first started in the... Ross: I'm sorry, I'm sorry, but I don't like being called "Eddie Baby". Host: What? Ross: I don't like being called "Eddie Baby". Host: (pause) Did I call you "Eddie Baby"? Ross: Yes, you did! Now if you could get on with the interview... Host: I don't think I did call you "Eddie Baby". Ross: You did! Host: Did I call him "Eddie Baby"? (Audience murmurs of 'yes' etc.) Host: I didn't really call you "Eddie Baby", did I, sweetie? Ross: Don't call me "sweetie"! Host: Can I call you "sugar plum"? Ross: No. Host: "Pussycat"? Ross: No! Host: "Angel drawers"? Ross: No you may not! Get on with it! Host: Can I call you "Frank"? Ross (suspiciously): Why "Frank"? Host: It's a nice name. Richard Nixon's got a hedgehog called Frank. Ross: What IS going on? Host: Now Frank -- Fran -- Frannie -- little Frannie-pooh... Ross: No. I'm leaving. I'm off. I'm going. I've never... (exits) Host (loudly): Tell us about your latest film, Sir Edward. Ross (nearly offstage): What? Host: Tell us about your latest film, Sir Edward, if you'd be so very kind. Ross: None of this "Pussycat" nonsense? Host: Promise. (Pats seat next to him.) Please, Sir Edward. Ross: My latest film? Host: Yes, Sir Edward. Ross: Well the idea, funnily enough, is based on an idea I had when I first joined the industry in 1919. Of course, in those days I was only the tea boy and... Host: Oh shut up!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
pure linen hand embroidery saree in pink
Regular price Rs. 6,999.00 Sale price Rs. 5,399.00 Save Rs. 1,600.00Use code FESTIVE15 and get flat 15% off on purchase above ₹ 9,999 only.
Use code WELCOME10 and get 10% off on every checkout.
Linen is one of the lightest weight and versatile fabric. it is suitable for every weather. Linen, this word is symbolic of a Latin word "LINIUM" which means, Flax. A linen sari needs a longer time to be created. A flax plant takes almost three months to cultivate. And require intensive manual labor to separate fibers from the Flax plants stem. After such a long process, a weaver then finally uses these flax fibers to create a soft and robust linen fabric. Bhagalpur in Bihar and Kochi in Kerala, these two states in India are famous for pure and authentic linen sarees production. These sarees are available in dark and pastel shades with plain as well as embroidery motifs. Here in Holy-thread, we invited you to discover the hardcore effort and charm of the linen handloom as well as the power loom weavers, with our authentic linen and slub linen collection.
- Fabric- Linen by linen
- Color-Pink and Red
- Saree length with Blouse - 6.5meters
- Blouse- Red with hand embroidery
- Maintenance - Dry Wash
- Work Type - Embroidery
- COD applicable only on purchasing value upto 9000.
- Handcrafted products may have slight irregularities in patterns, motif and texture but it makes saree work more beautiful and authentic.
- Handcrafted products are not a subject to mass production. Usually these are made in single or batches. Thus due to human involvement in process slight variation in colours, motifs and patterns is normal in each batch
- The Color of actual products may slightly vary due to the photogenic effect.
- These are Handloom products, so the final preparation like dying and polishing is done after booking confirmation so, it may take 10-12 days for delivery.
- Before shipment every product goes to quality check. However if the product has a genuine manufacturing defect , we are open to re fulfilling your order.


text:
King's Landing III is a new condo development by Concord Adex. King's Landing III is nearby Ambrose Parkette and Bessarion, the project will be located on Concord Park Place Community at Esther Shiner Boulevard near the Bayview Village neighborhood in North York.
Amenities includes: Ballroom, Billiard Table, Gym, Lawn Bowling, Squash Court, Wireless Charging Stations, Yoga Studio, Golf Simulator, Theatre Room, EV Charging, Putting Green
King's landing III Condos not only a prominent presence itself, King's Landing is in the centre of the Greater Toronto Region. Step onto the subway or GO Train, or take the major highways, and arrive anywhere in the city with ease.
Project Name: | Kings Landing III |
Builders: | Concord Adex |
Project Status: | Pre-Construction |
Approx Occupancy Date: | Summer 2022 |
Address: | 1001 Sheppard Ave. East, North York, ON M2K 1C2 |
Number Of Buildings: | 3 |
City: | North York |
Main Intersection: | Bayview & Sheppard Ave East |
Area: | Toronto |
Municipality: | C15 |
Neighborhood: | Bayview Village |
Architect: | IBI Group & Rafael + Bigauskas Architects Inc |
Development Type: | High Rise Condo |
Development Style: | Condo |
Building Size: | 36 |
Number Of Units: | 340 |
Nearby Parks: | East Don Parkland, Talara Park, Hawksbury Park |
Concord Adex
Concord Pacific Developments Inc. was formed in 1987 to develop Concord Pacific Place on the former Expo Lands in downtown Vancouver. In the late 90's, the group merged with the publicly listed Burcon Group, which controlled Oxford Properties that owned one of the largest office and retail portfolios in Canada. In the early 2000's, Concord Pacific became a separate public company and was subsequently privatized. Concord Pacific is now a private company active in the residential and commercial real estate investment and development business.
The Concord Group of Companies success has continued with Canada's largest skyline defining communities, Concord Pacific Place in Vancouver and Concord CityPlace in Toronto. Concord has further expanded with numerous large scale master-planned communities across the Canada and is now developing in the UK. Concord has completed over 100 residential and mixed use buildings with more than 50 in various stages of planning and development.
Over the past 25 years, the Concord Group of companies has also grown into other industry sectors including software and information technology, telecommunications, as well as green energy projects in solar, wind and hydroelectric power generation.


text:
Happiest of birthdays, Simone!! Thank you for being the most outstanding husband to your crazy wife, the best dad to the craziest kids, and so devoted to your job with the craziest hours all while not going even a little bit crazy. We are the luckiest clan in all of the land to have you as our patriarch.
Hurry home from the lady parts because Julia is very excited for your presents and your cake.
unrelated but sometimes we need reminders that we used to be young and fun (and shoeless, apparently) as we age.


text:
September 10, 2011
Event: Nova in Scorpius
Nova Sco 2011 No. 2 = PNV J16364440-4132340 = PNV J16364300-4132460 [V1313 Sco]
Discovered Independently by:
- John Seach (Chatsworth Island, NSW, Australia)
- Yuji Nakamura (Kameyama, Mie, Japan)
Discovery Date:
- Seach: 2011 Sep. 06.37 UT (JD 2455810.87)
- Nakamura: 2011 Sep. 06.4313 (JD 2455810.9313)
Discovery Magnitude:
- Seach: 9.8 (DSLR and 50mm f/1.2 lens and 5 second exposure
- Nakamura: 9.7 C (CCD camera + f.l.135-mm lens)
- Seach: RA 16 36 43 Dec -41 32 46 (2000.0)
- Nakamura: RA 16 36 44.4 Dec -41 32 34 (2000.0)
Spectra: Low resolution spectra obtained by A. Arai, T. Kajikawa, and C. Naka (Kyoto Sangyo University) on 2011 Sep. 7.42 UT using the Araki telescope at Koyama Astronomical Observatory suggest that the object is highly reddened Fe II-type classical nova. Spectra by F. Walter (Stony Brook University) and J. Seron (Cerro Tololo Interamerican Observatory) obtained Sep. 2011 8.091 UT using the SMARTS/CTIO 1.5-m reflector (+RC spectrograph) confirm the object is a young galactic nova; they report the spectra are reminiscent of an early recurrent nova.
Observations reported to the AAVSO:
Sep. 06.37 UT, 9.8 (John Seach, Chatsworth Island, NSW, Australia);
06.4313, 9.7 C (Y. Nakamura, Kameyama, Mie, Japan; via CBET 2813);
07.46, 10.51 V, 9.48 Rc, 8.62 Ic (H. Maehara, Kwasan Observatory, Kyoto University, Japan, via CBET 2813);
07.48, 10.52 V +-/0.05 (Steve James, Queanbeyan, NSW, Australia);
07.50, 9.1 R-Bessel (Ernesto Guido, Nick Howes, and Giovanni Sostero, remotely through the "Faulkes Telescope South);
07.50736, 10.437 V +/-0.001 (Peter Lake, Wonga Park, Victoria, Australia);
07.50947, 10.398 V +/-0.001 (Lake);
07.51156, 10.413 V +/-0.001 (Lake);
07.51370, 10.416 V +/-0.001 (Lake);
07.51579, 10.384 V +/-0.001 (Lake);
07.5256-.5288, 11.88B, 10.73V, 9.75Rc, and 8.77Ic (Seiichiro Kiyota, Tsukuba, Japan, using Officer, Australia(Global-rent-a-scope; via CBET 2813);
07.545, 10.6 (Rod Stubbings, Tetoora Park, Victoria, Australia);
08.392, 11.0 (Stubbings);
08.4611 10.7 unfiltered DSLR, green channel (R. Kaufman, Bright, Victoria, Australia);
09.406, 10.3 (T. Noguchi, Chiba-ken, Japan, via S. Nakano, via CBET 2813);
Charts: Finder charts for Nova Sco 2011 No. 2 (AUID 000-BKD-647) may be plotted by entering the name or the coordinates above into VSP.
Reporting Observations: Please report all observations to the AAVSO International Database as NOVA SCO 2011 NO. 2 or N SCO 2011 NO. 2. Be sure to include all spaces exactly as shown in the names.
a. Initially announced in AAVSO Special Notice #251 (Matthew Templeton) and IAU Central Bureau Electronic Telegram 2813 (Daniel W. E. Green, ed.).
b. Posted on the IAU Central Bureau for Astronomical Telegrams Transient Object Confirmation Page (TOCP) as PNV J16364440-4132340 (Nakamura) and PNV J16364300-4132460 (Seach). Identifications consolidated in VSX under PNV J16364440-4132340.
c. Seach reports that nothing is visible at the location of the nova on an image taken 2011 Sep. 5.36 UT. Nakamura reports that nothing is visible down to magnitude 12.0 on an image taken 2011 Aug. 29.451 UT.
d. T. Noguchi (Chiba-ken, Japan) provides position end figures 44.26s, 37.4". S. Kiyota (Tsukuba, Japan) provides position end figures 44.28s, 37.6".
e. Images by S. Kiyota are posted at URL
f. Guido et al. report a USNO-B1.0-catalogue star with R=15.08 within 0.06" of the nova. Their comparison animation with a 1997 red Digitized Sky Survey (DSS) plate is at URL http://bit.ly/ojz76D.
g. Paul Camilleri (New Castle, NSW, Australia) and Steven Williams (Sydney, NSW) report their images with red, blue, and green filters obtained remotely (no date) at Grove Creek/Skylive Observatory, Trunkey Creek, NSW, using a 0.35m f/6 reflector yield position end figures 44.28s, 37.7" and red mag 9.7 for the nova. They also report a 14-15 magnitude star visible on 1.2-m U.K. Schmidt Telescope plates with position end figures 44.29s, 37.6" from DSS images (mag 14.3 on an infrared plate taken on 1980 May 5.63; mag 15.2 on a red IIIa-F plate + OG590 filter on 1997 Apr. 30.64).
h. Material in this Alert Notice not sent directly to the AAVSO is from CBET 2813.
Congratulations to John Seach and Yuji Nakamura on their independent discoveries!
This AAVSO Alert Notice was compiled by Elizabeth O. Waagen.
Information on submitting observations to the AAVSO may be found at:
An Alert Notice archive is available at the following URL:
Subscribing and Unsubscribing may be done at the following URL:


text:
January 21, 2009
Twitter Test
See the sidebar on the right for the feed.
follow me on Twitter
4 comments:
I thought D-Ed Reckoning was you twittering, Ken. Wrong! Maybe when I watch the Simpson DVDs I'll get smarter, d'ya think?
Compared to D-Ed Reck, will your Twittering be:
Higher Order
Lower Order
Same Order
No Order
All of the Above
None of the Above
Select one, and explain the reasons for your selection.
(This question was constructed consistent with Item Response Theory. Your response will permit determining if you are "Below Basic," "At Basic" "Proficient" or "Above Proficient" on an ungrounded statistical scale.) - January 21, 2009 8:22 PM
- KDeRosa said...
That's what I thought too. You have to change with the times.
Then when you're done with the Simpsons you can graduate to Futurama.
Lower order since the 160-odd character constraint is too limited for someone as long-winded as me. - January 21, 2009 8:41 PM
- Matthew K. Tabor said...
140 characters - I commented to someone today that it's great fun to work within those constraints. Synonyms, brevity, syntax shifts, all sorts of neat stuff comes into play.
- January 21, 2009 9:28 PM
"Lower order since the 160-odd character constraint is too limited for someone as long-winded as me."
OK. That puts you at "Basic." DI needed. And, lucky you! You get it from an expert:
"it's great fun to work within those constraints. Synonyms, brevity, syntax shifts, all sorts of neat stuff comes into play."
Tappa, tappa, tappa. Get with your higher order thinking skills!
If you need further instruction, rewatch some Futurama. (I've never even heard of Futurama, so that puts me "Below Basic." It's hard to stay Proficient these days. And "above Proficient" only exists in the dreams of Item Response Theory Practitioners and all those who swallow the standardized test reports that are generated by the theory.)
A little Robet Browning might help both of us:
"Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for?"
"Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made. Our times are in his hand who saith, 'A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid!'"
"How sad and bad and mad it was - / But then, how it was sweet!" - January 22, 2009 8:50 AM


text:
Robert the Bruce, King of Scots
The Bruce - 1996 - Full movie - Robert Bruce and Bannockburn 1314
You may also wish to read...
The Bruce Being the Metrical History of Robert the Bruce King of Scots, compiled A.D. 1375 by Master John Barbour Archdeacon of Aberdeen and Translated by George Eyre-Todd
A New View of the War of IndependenceBy Evan M. Barron
Return to our Significant Scots Page
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text:
262 x 199 x 2,1 mm +/-0.5mm
Standard provided is a driver cd.
The touch panel works on the following operating systems:
Touchkit mode: 32 bit computers (jumper on controller not used):
MAC 9.x, 10.x until 10.5.6 (choose ELO mode for versions > 10.5.6)
RedHat 7.x, 8.x
Windows 95/98, ME, 2000, NT, CE.NET, CE3.0/5.0, XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10
ELO mode: Use for 64 bit computers (jumper on controller used - bridge pin 1+2) or for MAC versions > 10.5.6.
In this mode only use Elo Compatible drivers.
Controller information:
USB, The signal is delivered to the USB port and the power also comes from the USB port.
RS232 with PS/2, The signal is delivered to the RS232 port and the power comes from the PS/2 port.
RS232 internal power, The signal is delivered to the RS232 port and the power you can get it from the monitor.
You can purchase by selecting below mentioned options (if available). More info on tab "Options")
Next add amount of products and push the button "Add to cart" and follow further on screen instructions. We advise you to make an account during the checkout if you are planning to buy more often.
Discount on prices:
- Resellers/ installers and Manufacturers (OEM) are advised to login or register to receive discount on prices. After login discounted net.price excl.VAT for the product is given.
- For projects with larger amounts than 5 pieces we advise you to contact us by webform or by phone: +31 (0)45 574 81 90.


text:
FET SYSTEM is the largest IELTS preparation center in the world. Log on to www.fetsystem.com and get all the IELTS preparation material for free!
You can now check your IELTS result. Students in United Kingdom strongly feel that writing part 1 was very confusing. The confusion started and it remained throughout the exam. There were many students who were retaking the exam because they had not been able to achieve their desired band in the last attempt. Students acknowledged the fact that the FET SYSTEM had helped them prepare well for the IELTS exam. We would like to congratulate all the students who scored well on the exam and we would like to wish good luck to the students who are planning to retake the exam. If you want good band then you can write an e-mail at email@example.com to get personalized training from an expert IELTS trainer


text: To report another member, click the "Report Abuse" on their profile. You will be asked to select the reason of your report and provide your supporting information, then click the "Submit" button. Please provide as much information and evidence as you can so that we can thoroughly investigate your report.


text:
My personal feedback loops
As a sort of companion piece to the previous entry, I figured it might help other web writers to know what tools are available to them, as well as to possibly fill in some gaps I have in my own process (I bet someone reading this knows how to find info on the things I'm blanking on).
So there are several communities I'm familiar with that might republish or comment on something I've created and they are as follows:
- Twitter
- tweets mentioning my username
- tweets mentioning my full name
- my tweets retweeted
- my tweets marked as a favorite
- mentions of my blog posts in twitter
- Tumblr (any mentions of my posts)
- FriendFeed (comments on my blog posts and/or tweets)
- Delicious links leading to my blog
- Google Reader
- Number of times and who shared a blog post of mine
- Any "shared with note" of my blog posts
- Times someone hit "Like" on my blog posts
- Any comments on my blog posts
- Facebook (any comments or likes on my photos, blog posts, and/or tweets)
- Flickr (any comments or favorites on my photos)
- Other blogs linking to my posts
- Google's Buzz? (mentions of my blog posts, tweets, photos, comments on them)
Now, here's my toolset.
For Twitter, I check my "mentions" within various Twitter clients as well as a search for my username "mathowie" and my full name. There's a new "your tweets, retweeted" feature only available on twitter.com itself (is it in the API yet? I haven't found any other clients with this information). I'm a bigger fan of favorites than retweets and I usually find enough info from favstar, where I look at my recent posts with favorites, but of course that's an outside service that scrapes the content and it's not complete (I've tried 2 or 3 other twitter favorite trackers and they all report different # of favorites and often show different people). The service BackTweets.com lets me track a feed of mentions of my blog URL in any tweet and it does a pretty good job.
For Tumblr and other blogs mentioning my posts, I use an old citations search at bloglines set to search all RSS feeds for my domain. I do this for several domains where I write stuff. Here's the search for my personal blog URL. I've used this tool for almost five years and it still does the trick.
I have an account at FriendFeed, and it thankfully just emails me when someone comments on anything in my feed, which is handy and direct (but could get annoying if it was more than once or twice a day).
At Delicious, I follow a network of 63 people that mark interesting stuff and sometimes my own stuff shows up there. If not, I can do a backlink search and save the resulting URL to see how many people liked it enough to save it and if they said anything about it. I wish the backlink search let me look for anything with my domain in it, but it is specific to every single bookmark but something is better than nothing there.
For Google Reader, I'm pretty much in the dark. I once tried out the Firefox extension feedly and was taken aback by the tool's overlay on my blog showing tons of Google Reader activity on every one of my posts. My initial reaction was "who the hell are all these people and why didn't I know they were talking about my stuff before?!" I'd like to see some tool beyond a special browser plugin or bookmarklet hack for aggregating Reader activity on my stuff because it's currently a blind spot.
Facebook is much the same way. Once in a great while I look at web stats and I might see a bunch of facebook.com referrers and sometimes (if it wasn't followed from their main page) I can figure out where something I wrote was mentioned. This is another feedback black hole.
Flickr offers the wonderful Recent Activity page that I loved so much I copied it for MetaFilter. It's pretty much the ultimate tool for finding what has happened with your content on the network and I hope other services are watching and following suit. I would love to see an internet-wide tool that worked like this to track stuff people have said about my writing/photos as well as any followups on comments I left on any other blog. Many companies have tried, no one has succeeded yet.
Google Buzz is another new mystery. Given people can post links there, I have no idea where, when, how or what they've said.
That's about it, and I know there are other communities like StumbleUpon, reddit, and Digg that might rate and/or comment on my work, but I generally don't feel like tracking them and only occasionally see them pop up in web stats.
I'm aware it may seem like I'm sitting here pushing 25 buttons like a Skinner box every hour trying to figure out if people like my stuff, but really most of this stuff is automated as RSS feeds in Google Reader, so I can just pull up GR and see that maybe two new tweets mentioned my blog, four tumblr blogs reblogged something I said, etc.
If anyone has any tips on how to track your own URL mentions in Facebook or Google Reader (or Buzz), I'm all ears.