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Product Reviews
I have made many purchases from Oversotck in the past and have been very satisfied until the sisal rugs. Unfortunately in less hen a week, the rugs started shedding and long pieces of the material were coming out. I trimmed it but it's falling apart again. I assume the life of these rugs is going to be short. I would return them but getting out is not easy..
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|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Apr 27, 1976
|Filing date
|Mar 15, 1974
|Priority date
|Mar 15, 1974
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Clifford C. Hach
|Original Assignee
|Hach Chemical Company
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (4), Referenced by (23), Classifications (19)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This invention relates generally to automatic chemical analyzers and more particularly concerns a continuous fluid analyzer and method for making colorimetric analysis on successive water samples.
Automatic analyzers for monitoring a wide variety of water parameters have long been known to the art and industry. Commonly, such analyzers isolate a water sample of given size, add test reagents of known concentrations and volumes, and then read the color change produced as indicative of the presence and concentration of the substance for which the test is designed. Color changes are efficiently detected by sensing transmitted light filtered to the particular color, or wave length, involved in the given test.
Color change analyzers have been very effective and successful in applications where essentially clean, clear water is under test. Obviously, if the test samples are already colored or are turbid, the sensing light beam is affected by both the turbidity particles and the original or background color so that any color change produced by the test reagents is not accurately measured. Moreover, if "dirty" water is run through an analyzer, it can be expected that the light path for the color-change sensing light will become fouled and, in other cases, distorted by clinging air bubbles.
While not exactly a widespread problem, because automatic analyzers for turbid water are uncommon (if they heretofore existed at all), it is the fact that adding test reagents to a turbid sample could well affect the turbidity of the sample as well as its color, with the result that the sensing light beam would not distinguish between the color change and the turbidity change.
It is the primary aim of the present invention to overcome these problems and provide an automatic colorimetric analyzer that will function effectively, and accurately over long periods of time, in the analysis of even heavily turbid or strongly colored water samples.
It is an object of the invention to provide an analyzer of the above kind which is simple in design so as to be reliable, relatively inexpensive to manufacture, and easy to service and maintain.
Another object is to provide an analyzer as characterized above which is quite flexible in organization so that its components can be arranged and connected to perform a variety of colorimetric tests.
A further object is to provide an analyzer that requires only the most rudimentary installation facilities in that, in most cases, special pumping or piping would not be needed for either samples or reagents.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a front elevation, partially diagrammatic, of an analyzer embodying the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the analyzer shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of one of the valve assemblies of the analyzer shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary section of one of the pump assemblies employed in the analyzer of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary section of the colorimetric cells utilized in the analyzer of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged fragmentary section of a portion of the structure shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a further enlarged horizontal section of the cells shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a schematic wiring diagram for the analyzer of FIG. 1; and
FIG. 9 is a chart showing operating sequences for the parts of the analyzer appearing in FIG. 1.
While the invention will be described in connection with a preferred embodiment and procedure, it will be understood that I do not intend to limit the invention to that embodiment or procedure. On the contrary, I intend to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Turning now to the drawings, there is shown in FIG. 1 an analyzer 10 embodying, and intended to perform the method of, the invention. The analyzer 10 includes a mounting plate 11 supporting a housing block 12 containing a reference cell 13 and a test cell 14 (see FIG. 5), an inlet valve assembly 15, an outlet valve assembly 16, a set of reagent pumps 17, and a cam 18 on a shaft 19 journalled in the plate 11 and driven by an electric motor 20. Pistons 21 and 22 reciprocate in the cells 13, 14, respectively, to perform the multiple functions of pumping fluid, cleaning the cells, and timing the transmission of light from a light source 23 mounted in a housing 24 on the rear of the plate 11 to a light sensor 25 mounted on the front of the housing block 12.
It is a feature of the invention that the single cam shaft 19 drives in coordinated fashion the pistons 21, 22, valve assemblies 15, 16, reagent pumps 17 and other moving parts of the analyzer, this drive being mainly through the single cam 18.
To exemplify the invention, the analyzer 10 is set up to and will be described as performing a continuous orthophosphate analysis on samples drawn directly from raw sewage shown schematically contained at 30. The test itself is known, involving straining the sample, preferably filtering out particles above 0.0035 of an inch, adding acid to at least partially dissolve particulate matter, adding a measured amount of ammonium molybdate, next adding a measured amount of amino acid-sulfite, holding the solution for one minute, and then determining the extent of the distinctive blue color change indicative of the phosphate concentration. The analyzer 10 is effective to draw its own stream of samples from the sewage 30 and to pull acid, molybdate and amino acid from reagent bottles 31, 32 and 33, respectively. After testing, the sample stream is discharged through a drain line 34.
Before considering the coordinated functioning of the analyzer 10, it will be helpful to understand the subassemblies. As one aspect of the invention, the inlet valve assembly 15 includes a block 35 guiding and holding four lines of flexible tubing, line 36 running from the sewage 30 to the lower end of the reference cell 13, and lines 37, 38 and 39 running from the respective bottles 31-33 to the respective pumps 41, 42 and 43 in the set 17. The valve operating element is a pinch arm 44 pivoted at 45 on the plate 11 and having a cam follower 46 at one end and a pinch-off bar 47 at the other. When the cam follower 46 rides out on the lobe of the cam 18, as shown in FIG. 1, the bar 47 squeezes all of the tubing lines 36-39 against the block 35 cutting of fluid flow through the lines. Allowing the cam follower 46 to swing counterclockwise on the cam 18 opens the lines of the valve assembly 15. Using 1/16 inch diameter flexible plastic tubing in such an assembly provides a simple, long lasting and reliable multiple valve.
The outlet valve assembly 16 (see FIG. 3) is similar to the assembly 15 having a block 51, a pinch arm 52 with a cam follower 53 and a pinch-off bar 54, and four lines of flexible tubing. A line 55 runs from the top of the reference cell 13, through the valve assembly 16, to a holding loop 56 and then to the lower end of the measuring cell 14. Lines 57 and 58 run from the pumps 42, 43, respectively, and open into and join the line 55 after passing through the valve assembly 16. A fourth line 59 runs from the pump 41 through the assembly 16 to the line 36 going to the bottom of the reference cell. The drain line 34, referred to above, leads from the top of the measuring cell.
The pumps 41-43, constituting another feature of the invention, are identical, and pump 43 (see FIG. 4) includes a housing 61 mounted on the plate 11 and defining a chamber 62 having inlet and outlet passages to which the lines 39 and 58 are respectively connected. A plunger 63 is sized to fit loosely in the chamber 62 and is mounted for reciprocation in a seal 64 preventing leakage from the chamber along the piston. The plunger 63 passes through and is reciprocated by an arm 65 moving up and down through a fixed stroke as described below, and adjustable nuts 66 on the plunger 63 permit the arm-plunger coupling, and thus the volume of fluid pumped per stroke, to be precisely adjusted.
The pumps cooperate with the valve assemblies 15, 16. With the outlet valve assembly 16 holding the line 58 closed, and the inlet valve assembly 15 allowing the line 39 to remain open, downward movement of the plunger 63 caused by downward movement of the arm 65 will draw a fixed quantity of amino acid into the chamber 62. Closing the line 39 and opening the line 58 will, upon upward movement of the plunger 63, pump that same fixed and measured quantity of acid from the chamber 62 and through the line 58. The pumps 41 and 42 are formed and operate similarly, with all the pumps in the set 17 being moved in unison upon upward and downward movement of the arm 65.
In carrying out the invention, the reference and measuring cells 13, 14 include hollow transparent cylinders 71 and 72 in the form of lengths of precision bored glass tubing fixed in the housing block 12, and the pistons 21, 22 are formed with central passages 73 and 74 and lower peripheral edges 75 in wiping engagement with the inner surfaces of the glass tubing 71, 72 (see FIG. 6). Preferably, the pistons 21, 22 are formed of resilient, non-wetting plastic such as Teflon, and have an end groove defining a flexible lip 76 that is resiliently spread by an O-ring 77 so as to create the wiping edges 75 and hold them firmly against the glass cylinders. As already observed, the lines 36, 35 lead to the lower interior ends of the cylinders 71, 72, respectively, and the lines 55 and 34 open into the respective cylinder passages 73, 74.
The pistons 21, 22 are reciprocated by the cam 18 in timed relationship to operation of the valve assemblies 15, 16. Thus, with the outlet valve assembly 16 holding line 55 closed, and the inlet valve assembly leaving line 36 open, upward movement of the piston 21 draws a measured amount of sample into the reference cell 13 through the line 36. In this way the analyzer is capable of pumping its own sample from a considerable distance and thus can be located well above and away from the source of fluid under test. With the line 36 closed and the line 55 open, downward movement of the piston 21 forces the measured sample through the line 55, the valve assembly 16 and to the measuring cell 14.
As observed above, it is a feature of the invention that a common drive facilitates proper coordination of the analyzer's moving parts. The pistons 21, 22 are secured to slide bars 81 and 82, respectively, mounted for vertical movement in a block 83. The slide bar 81 has a cam follower 84 riding in a box cam groove 85 in the cam 18. The bar 81 also carries a pin 86 fitted in a slot in a lever 87 pivoted on the block 83, and the other slide bar 82 carries a corresponding pin 88 engaging another slot in the lever 87. Upward movement of the bar 81 thus rocks the lever 87 counterclockwise to drive the bar 82 downwardly, and vice-versa, so that the pistons 21, 22 move the same distances in opposite directions at the same time.
The bar 82 extends upwardly and carries the arm 65 which drives the set of pumps 17. Also, and as previously described, the periphery of the cam 18 operates the pincher arms 44, 52 of the valve assemblies 15, 16.
In the optical system of the analyzer 10 (see FIG. 7) the single light source 23 directs light through lenses 91 and 92 to mirrors 93 and through passages 94 and 95 to the reference and measuring cells 13, 14. Thus, the same intensity and quality of light is received at each cell. Light transmitted through the cells passes through an appropriately colored filter 96 for the test being utilized to the single common light sensor 25.
The overall method of the invention can now be appreciated. Light of the same intensity and wave length is directed to the two transparent cells 13, 14. The piston 21 moves up drawing a sample into the reference cell 13 and clearing the light passage 94 so that the sensor 25 "sees" a reference value of transmitted light depending on the turbidity and color of the original sample. At this time, the piston 21 is down blocking the light passage 95 to the measuring cell 14. Movement of the pistons in the opposite directions, together with coordinated movement of the valve assemblies 15, 16 and reagent pumps 17, forces the sample from the reference cell 13 toward the measuring cell 14 and adds the reagents through the lines 57, 58 to the sample transmitting line 55.
In the illustrative case, the holding loop 56 gives a detaining period such as one minute for the color producing reaction, successive samples keeping the transmitting lines full, so that, after the holding period, the sample is forced and drawn into the measuring cell 14 upon upward movement of the piston 22. The light transmitted through the measuring cell is then sensed, and by comparing the two light readings, the color change from the test is obtained.
Again referring to the illustrative case, the line 59 and the pump 43 is used to blend a small quantity of acid to the sample in the line 36 before the check of the sample in the reference cell 13. This duplicates the standard test by adding a small amount of acid to the sample prior to using it as a reference sample in standardizing the colorimeter. The effect is to modify the sample before the reference cell check in the same manner as the reagents might effect non-color characteristics between the reference cell and the test cell. That is, the acid will somewhat change the turbidity of the sample prior to the reference cell check so that later addition of the amino acid, which would also affect turbidity, will not produce a turbidity change that would cause a difference in light transmittance. By so preconditioning the sample, any light transmittance changes between the reference cell and the measuring cell can be attributed to the color change of the chemical analysis performed by the analyzer.
Keeping in mind that the samples can be turbid, the continual cleaning of the cell cylinders 71, 72 by the wiping edges 75 of the pistons is obviously an important aspect contributing to the reliable, consistent results obtained from the analyzer 10.
While different kinds of readout arrangements will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, the analyzer 10 is illustrated associated with a ratio amplifier 101 and a pair of holding amplifiers and logic circuitry 102 so that when no color change is detected by the instrument there is a 100% transmittance reading on a meter 103. In this arrangement, a timing cam 104 and a select cam 105 are mounted on the cam shaft 19 at the rear of the mounting plate 11, each cam operating a switch 106 and 107, respectively, shown schematically in FIG. 8.
The switch 107 selects which of a reference amplifier and a measuring amplifier in the circuitry 102 will receive a signal from the light sensor 25 when the timing switch 106 is closed. When the reference cell 13 is being sensed, the signal from the sensor 25 is directed by the switch 107 to the reference amplifier and is integrated during the period the timing switch 106 is closed. This integrated signal is held for the remainder of the cycle, during which the measuring cell 14 is sensed and that signal directed to a measuring amplifier, the switch 107 being reversed, which is integrated while the timing switch 106 is closed. The ratio amplifier 101 divides the respective signals and, in effect, multiplies by 100 to give a 100% transmittance reading on the meter 103 if the signals are the same as a result of no color change and, in the illustrated case, as a result of no phosphate being present in the sample.
The sequencing of the timing switch 106 and the select switch 107, as well as the coordinated movements of the other elements of the analyzer 10, will be readily apparent from the timing chart which is FIG. 9.
Because the analyzer 10 performs a colorimetric analysis wherein the color change, if any, is compared against the original sample, the analyzer functions effectively with even heavily turbid and strongly colored samples. Nevertheless, the analyzer, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, is essentially simple in design so as to be reliable, relatively inexpensive to manufacture, and easy to service and maintain. Since the entire mechanism is mounted on a single mounting plate 11, installation in a wall or cabinet can be readily accomplished.
Since the analyzer 10 is self-pumping, little auxiliary or additional equipment is needed for pumping or piping reagents or a sample stream. While the invention has been described in connection with an analyzer set up to perform a given test, it is evident that the components of the analyzer 10 are well suited for arrangement into other configurations so that other colorimetric tests can be formed on a continuous basis from any given sample.
|Cited Patent
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|Wallace & Tiernan Company Inc
|Measuring and controlling apparatus
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|Nov 5, 1935
|Barlow Elmer J
|Continuous oxygen recorder
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|Warner Lambert Pharmaceutical
|Analytical cuvette and supply system wherein the cuvette inlet and outlet are located on the bottom of the cuvette
|Feb 14, 1973
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|Gen Atomic Co
|Self-cleaning optical cell for a fluid analysis system
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Mar 15, 1976
|May 23, 1978
|Nihon Denshi Kabushiki Kaisha
|Automatic analyzing apparatus
|Oct 20, 1976
|Aug 22, 1978
|Hanson Research Corporation
|Sample changing chemical analysis method and apparatus
|Jun 6, 1980
|Sep 8, 1981
|Hach Chemical Company
|Continuous pH meter
|Mar 6, 1980
|May 11, 1982
|Hach Chemical Company
|Method for spectrophotometric compensation for colorimetric reagent variation
|Aug 30, 1990
|Oct 22, 1991
|Great Lakes Instruments, Inc.
|Turbidimeter having a baffle assembly for removing entrained gas
|Jul 30, 1990
|Oct 29, 1991
|Hickey James J
|Method for continually and automatically measuring the level of a water treatment product in boiler feedwater
|Mar 15, 1991
|Feb 4, 1992
|Nalco Chemical Company
|Apparatus for continually and automatically measuring the level of a water treatment product in boiler feedwater
|Mar 30, 1990
|Apr 7, 1992
|Harro Hofliger Verpackungsmaschinen Gmbh
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|Feb 9, 1993
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|Hf Scientific, Inc.
|Fluid content monitor
|May 7, 2003
|Aug 2, 2011
|Ben Bremauer
|Apparatus for mixing and/or testing small volumes of fluids
|Sep 13, 2011
|Sysmex Corporation
|Analyzer and reagent container
|Jul 28, 2010
|Feb 21, 2012
|Hf Scientific, Inc.
|Fluid content monitor
|Oct 29, 2008
|Nov 3, 2015
|Arkray Inc
|Method of optical analysis using reference cell and base plate correction and apparatus thereof
|Dec 16, 2004
|Sep 1, 2005
|Karl-Heinz Bindrim
|Analyzer and reagent container
|May 7, 2003
|Dec 15, 2005
|Ben Bremauer
|Apparatus for mixing and/or testing small volumes of fluids
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|U.S. Classification
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|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Risen 2: Dark Waters - Complete Package - Playstation 3 (Special Edition)
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About the Product
- New Visual Technology - High-res texturing, gorgeous weather, water and light/shadow effects, a fully revamped character animation system and an exhaustive NPC character model design which greatly reduces the chance of "clone" NPCs
- A perfect blend of classical RPG gameplay and a fresh, unique underlying game world; Several Unique Islands encourage exploration and adventure while the player hunts for secret treasures and hidden areas
- Risen 2 features open world complete with rum, firearms, dirty tricks and a brand new voodoo magic style; fully envelops players with full day/night cycle, dynamic weather patterns, NPCs with daily routines who react based on your behavior
- Every Gameplay Decision Has a Consequence - players get to shape their game experience and even the game world itself depending on their actions and choices, their choices may change the character's skill set, NPC relationships, or potential quest lines
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Product Description
Customer Reviews
Top Customer Reviews
Gameplay (sans fighting): The exploration aspect of the game is a blast. I've wanted to play a real pirate game for some time since being disappointed by Rogue Galaxy many years ago. This game almost does the trick. While there is a storyline about saving the world, the real fun is interacting with others, robbing graves, and in general, accumulating loot. The main plot isn't bad, but I find it implausible that pirates would worry so much about anything other than getting rich and getting women. And while the main character isn't a full pirate, it still strains belief.
But there are numerous islands to explore, numerous sites to find, numerous treasures to plunder, and (unfortunately) numerous enemies to fight. I wish it was easier to run from the enemies (more on that later), but I thoroughly enjoy the other aspects.
Dialogue: It's like the script was written by a well-versed 14-year-old. F words pepper the dialogue (there is one hilarious character, late in the game, that curses about every other word). And yet, I find the dialogue pretty good (much better than Two Worlds 2, whose dialogue didn't match the game in the least). I enjoy the voices for the most part, and given that you will be talking a LOT, that's a plus.
Graphics: I don't know why everyone beats up on the graphics. While they may not be the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, they are more than functional.Read more ›
-Unique Pirate theme and tropical settings including beautiful beaches, treacherous jungles, creepy caves and voodoo temples.
-Surprisingly good music that does a great job creating ambiance. Going in caves genuinely scares me thanks to this (and the fact that I'm stubborn about not wanting to use up torches lol).
-Lots of quests/exploring/collecting to do.
-Interesting combat: I admit, the combat at first in this game seems super boring, but once you are able to buy a few skills (faster attacks, power attacks, etc) it really improves.
-Tons of skills to learn: ranging from sword and gun skills, to voodoo, to sending a trained monkey through a window to rob a house for you lol.
-The text is TINY, so unless you're right in front of your TV you will have a hard time reading it. For the console releases of this they really should have included an option to make it larger.
-Lots of pop-in textures.
-The in-game map isn't great because you can't zoom.
Pirate Theme: 5 stars
Tech upkeep: 4.5
It was a great game, the story was equally good. though later in the game it got a little laggy. No big deal as I had a blast.
Definitely this game is in my top 10 favorites.
So I finished this game...finally. I enjoyed it more than the first which I never finished. It seemed like it had everything there for a good game but it was just boring after a while. I played on easy since I read that was a better option to enjoy the game with less frustration. I won't cover combat, it is what it is. Simple and shallow like everything else in the game.
+Some character development. Not much but enough to feel like you were getting better at things.
+Fun to be a pirate. This may be the best part of the game. There aren't a lot of games in the pirate genre.
+Fairly open world. You can revisit any of the islands you were at previously and actually you need to for some of the quests.
-Bad lighting in caves. It was really dark. Ok, it is dark in caves. I get it. But you don't get a mini-map and you can't see where you're going. How is this fun? Even with the gamma turned on max brightness and playing in a dark room, I could barely see with the pathetic torch.
-Chests and lockpicking. The mini-game for picking locks got a little old after a while. I know developers try to come up with clever new ways to present the lock picking skills in games but it was just old after a while. And there were no consequences to failure. You only need one pick in the whole game and if your skill is high enough, you get to try their little mechanic as many times as it takes to "win". Chests are scattered throughout the game and some you just have to come back to later in the game once your skill is high enough. That random chest on a random beach somewhere that might hold something but is too high level for you when you find it? Just come back to it hours later in the game! Oh, you don't remember where it is or that it even exists?Read more ›
Most Recent Customer Reviews
It ain't Skyrim.....it's a good low budget rpg, I played it for 30 hours and enjoyed it. You just have to come with the correct expectations. This is NOT Skyrim or Witcher 3.Published 11 months ago by S. Nasar
seriously? you can't block or dodge animals. so game over if you stumble onto a beast.... epic failPublished 20 months ago by Anthony
GREAT PIRATE GAME!!! Nice skills. Wonderful soundtrack. Smooth combat (improved over 1st game). Neat enemies. Terrific - and fun! - quests. Great Graphics. Intriguing story. Read morePublished 23 months ago by RJ the Great Cat Lover
Look, I've played some mediocre games in my day. And if a game has some redeeming qualities, I'm not above hacking my way through the unpolished parts to get to them. Read morePublished on February 10, 2014 by Jeff C.


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Read an Excerpt
User Experience Re-MasteredYour Guide to Getting the Right Design
Morgan KaufmannCopyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc.
All right reserved.
Chapter OneWhat Is Usability?
Jakob Nielsen
Jakob Nielsen has been a leading figure in the usability field since the 1980s and this chapter from his classic book, Usability Engineering (Nielsen, 1993), highlights the multidimensional nature of usability. To be usable, a product or service must consider, at a minimum, these five basic dimensions:
* Learnability
* Efficiency
* Memorability
* Error tolerance and prevention
* Satisfaction
An important point made by Nielsen and other usability experts is that the importance of these dimensions will differ depending on the particular context and target users. For something like a bank automated teller machine (ATM) or information kiosk in a museum, learnability might be the major focus of usability practitioners. For complex systems such as jet planes, railway systems, and nuclear power plants, the critical dimensions might be error tolerance and error prevention, followed by memorability and efficiency. If you can't remember the proper code to use when an alarm goes off in a nuclear power plant, a catastrophic event affecting many people over several generations might occur.
In the years since this chapter was published, the phrase "user experience" has emerged as the successor to "usability." User experience practitioners consider additional dimensions such as aesthetics, pleasure, and consistency with moral values, as important for the success of many products and services. These user experience dimensions, while important, still depend on a solid usability foundation. You can design an attractive product that is consistent with your moral values, but sales of that attractive product may suffer if it is hard to learn, not very efficient, and error prone.
Jakob's chapter describes what is needed to establish a solid foundation for usability – a timeless topic. You can read essays by Jakob on topics related to many aspects of usability and user experience at http://www.useit.com.
Back when computer vendors first started viewing users as more than an inconvenience, the term of choice was "user friendly" systems. This term is not really appropriate, however, for several reasons. First, it is unnecessarily anthropomorphic – users don't need machines to be friendly to them, they just need machines that will not stand in their way when they try to get their work done. Second, it implies that users' needs can be described along a single dimension by systems that are more or less friendly. In reality, different users have different needs, and a system that is "friendly" to one may feel very tedious to another.
Because of these problems with the term user friendly, user interface professionals have tended to use other terms in recent years. The field itself is known under names like computer–human interaction (CHI), human–computer interaction (HCI), which is preferred by some who like "putting the human first" even if only done symbolically, user-centered design (UCD), man-machine interface (MMI), human-machine interface (HMI), operatormachine interface (OMI), user interface design (UID), human factors (HF), and ergonomics, etc.
I tend to use the term usability to denote the considerations that can be addressed by the methods covered in this book. As shown in the following section, there are also broader issues to consider within the overall framework of traditional "user friendliness."
To some extent, usability is a narrow concern compared with the larger issue of system acceptability, which basically is the question of whether the system is good enough to satisfy all the needs and requirements of the users and other potential stakeholders, such as the users' clients and managers. The overall acceptability of a computer system is again a combination of its social acceptability and its practical acceptability. As an example of social acceptability, consider a system to investigate whether people applying for unemployment benefits are currently gainfully employed and thus have submitted fraudulent applications. The system might do this by asking applicants a number of questions and searching their answers for inconsistencies or profiles that are often indicative of cheaters. Some people may consider such a fraud-preventing system highly socially desirable, but others may find it offensive to subject applicants to this kind of quizzing and socially undesirable to delay benefits for people fitting certain profiles. Notice that people in the latter category may not find the system acceptable even if it got high scores on practical acceptability in terms of identifying many cheaters and were easy to use for the applicants.
Given that a system is socially acceptable, we can further analyze its practical acceptability within various categories, including traditional categories such as cost, support, reliability, compatibility with existing systems, as well as the category of usefulness. Usefulness is the issue of whether the system can be used to achieve some desired goal. It can again be broken down into the two categories, utility and usability (Grudin, 1992), where utility is the question of whether the functionality of the system in principle can do what is needed and usability is the question of how well users can use that functionality. Note that the concept of "utility" does not necessarily have to be restricted to the domain of hard work. Educational software (courseware) has high utility if students learn from using it, and an entertainment product has high utility if it is fun to use. Figure 1.1 shows the simple model of system acceptability outlined here. It is clear from the figure that system acceptability has many components and that usability must trade-off against many other considerations in a development project.
Usability applies to all aspects of a system with which a human might interact, including installation and maintenance procedures. It is very rare to find a computer feature that truly has no user interface components. Even a facility to transfer data between two computers will normally include an interface to trouble-shoot the link when something goes wrong (Mulligan, Altom, & Simkin, 1991). As another example, I recently established two electronic mail addresses for a committee I was managing. The two addresses were ic93-papers-administrator and ic93-papers-committee (for e-mail to my assistant and to the entire membership, respectively). It turned out that several people sent e-mail to the wrong address, not realizing where their mail would go. My mistake was twofold: first in not realizing that even a pair of e-mail addresses constituted a user interface of sorts and second in breaking the well-known usability principle of avoiding easily confused names. A user who was taking a quick look at the "To:" field of an e-mail message might be excused for thinking that the message was going to one address even though it was in fact going to the other.
It is important to realize that usability is not a single, one-dimensional property of a user interface. Usability has multiple components and is traditionally associated with these five usability attributes:
* Learnability: The system should be easy to learn so that the user can rapidly start getting some work done with the system.
* Efficiency: The system should be efficient to use so that once the user has learned the system, a high level of productivity is possible.
* Memorability: The system should be easy to remember so that the casual user is able to return to the system after some period of not having used it without having to learn everything all over again.
* Errors: The system should have a low error rate so that users make few errors during the use of the system, and so that if they do make errors they can easily recover from them. Further, catastrophic errors must not occur.
* Satisfaction: The system should be pleasant to use so that users are subjectively satisfied when using it; they like it.
Each of these usability attributes will be discussed further in the following sections. Only by defining the abstract concept of "usability" in terms of these more precise and measurable components can we arrive at an engineering discipline where usability is not just argued about but is systematically approached, improved, and evaluated (possibly measured). Even if you do not intend to run formal measurement studies of the usability attributes of your system, it is an illuminating exercise to consider how its usability could be made measurable. Clarifying the measurable aspects of usability is much better than aiming at a warm, fuzzy feeling of "user friendliness" (Shackel, 1991).
Usability is typically measured by having a number of test users (selected to be as representative as possible of the intended users) use the system to perform a prespecified set of tasks, though it can also be measured by having real users in the field perform whatever tasks they are doing anyway. In either case, an important point is that usability is measured relative to certain users and certain tasks. It could well be the case that the same system would be measured as having different usability characteristics if used by different users for different tasks. For example, a user wishing to write a letter may prefer a different word processor than a user wishing to maintain several hundred thousands of pages of technical documentation. Usability measurement, therefore, starts with the definition of a representative set of test tasks, relative to which the different usability attributes can be measured.
To determine a system's overall usability on the basis of a set of usability measures, one normally takes the mean value of each of the attributes that have been measured and checks whether these means are better than some previously specified minimum. Because users are known to be very different, it is probably better to consider the entire distribution of usability measures and not just the mean value. For example, a criterion for subjective satisfaction might be that the mean value should be at least 4 on a 1–5 scale; that at least 50 percent of the users should have given the system the top rating, 5; and that no more than five percent of the users gave the system the bottom rating, 1.
Learnability is in some sense the most fundamental usability attribute, because most systems need to be easy to learn and because the first experience most people have with a new system is that of learning to use it. Certainly, there are some systems for which one can afford to train users extensively to overcome a hard-to-learn interface, but in most cases, systems need to be easy to learn.
Ease of learning refers to the novice user's experience on the initial part of the learning curve, as shown in Fig. 1.2. Highly learnable systems have a steep incline for the first part of the learning curve and allow users to reach a reasonable level of usage proficiency within a short time. Practically all user interfaces have learning curves that start out with the user being able to do nothing (have zero efficiency) at time zero (when they first start using it). Exceptions include the so-called walk-up-and-use systems, such as museum information systems, that are only intended to be used once and therefore need to have essentially zero learning time, allowing users to be successful from their very first attempt at using them.
The standard learning curve also does not apply to cases where the users are transferring skills from previous systems, such as when they upgrade from a previous release of a word processor to the new release (Telles, 1990). Assuming that the new system is reasonably consistent with the old, users should be able to start a fair bit up on the learning curve for the new system (Polson, Muncher, & Engelbeck, 1986).
Excerpted from User Experience Re-Mastered Copyright © 2010 by Elsevier Inc.. Excerpted by permission of Morgan Kaufmann. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.


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Tempers flared during Tuesday's county commission meeting as three regular critics went head-to-head with elected officials over charging attorney fees to citizens who file complaints against the local government.
Despite the angry remarks from citizens, the commission voted 3-0 to seek approval from a judge to have the county's attorney fees paid by the plaintiffs if the county prevails in a lawsuit appeal.
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Bring the love of the game home with the Fathead Derek Jeter Wall Décor larger-than-life peel-and-stick wall decal. Easily smooth this sporty Derek Jeter wall decal wherever you'd like--in a bedroom, the den, rec room or garage--without damaging surfaces. The thick vinyl decal does not lose its adhesive effect so you can simply unpeel and restick it again to enjoy the company of your fave Yankees slugger wherever you go. 96"L x 49" W.
Hang with your fave Yankees slugger, Derek Jeter, in your rec room or den
With this huge and lifelike wall décor, you'll feel like you're in the game
Peel and place on any wall, and even change wallsit stays sticky and doesn't damage surfaces
Made of thick, high-grade vinyl that resists tears, rips and fading
Even bigger than the real thing: 96Lx49W"
Features: Self-Adhesive Backing, Easy To Apply, Washable Surface, Repositionable
Includes: 1 Sheet
Hanging Method: Self-adhesive
Material: Vinyl
Care and Cleaning: Wipe Clean with a Damp Cloth
Dimensions: 54.000 L x 4.200 W
Assembly Details: assembly required
Number of Pieces in Set: 1
other Info.
- Online Item #: 10577230
- Store Item Number (DPCI): 085-04-0080
- Made in the USA or Imported


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Shared bathroom facilities are available to all guests. You can enjoy city views from the room. Main Street Hostel... 추가 정보 »
We are pleased to welcome you cordially. We are completely at your disposal for providing you for a pleasant and... 추가 정보 »
The 'Panorama' hotel and restaurant is located closest to the beach street and has a beautiful view of the Burgas... 추가 정보 »
The family run city hotel ,comprises a total of 11 cosy guest rooms (decorated in green, blue and yellow colours),... 추가 정보 »


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18 Projects Every Crafter Wants
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Recently I've discovered Yii framework and started learning it. I've generated app skeleton using yiic tool, installed PHPUnit, SeleniumRC and attempted to run functional tests provided by skeleton app (I didn't change anything).
> phpunit functional/SiteTest.php
Report said following:
There was 1 error:
1) SiteTest::testLoginLogout
PHPUnit_Framework_Exception: Response from Selenium RC server for testComplete().
ERROR: Element link=Logout not found.
I found that there was a 'Logout (demo)' link, not just 'Logout'. If I change php code in testcase, all tests pass ok. Is it error of Yii developers or am I missing something?


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We went for dinner. There are lots of gf choices on the menu. We have enjoyed items from the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Bob Evans has become our go-to-place for gluten free food when traveling.
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Infant superglue VIDEO: Doctor treats brain aneurysm with superglue [PHOTOS]
An infant's life was saved after quick-thinking doctors used surgical superglue to treat an aneurysm in the baby's brain.
3-week-old Ashlyn Julian was at the University of Kansas Hospital when doctors discovered an olive-size aneurysm during an MRI scan.
The size of the aneurysm is extremely rare in children, according to neurosurgeon Dr Koji Ebersole. Doctors had to find small adult equipment to treat the condition as there was none sized for an infant's head.
However, Ashlyn, suffered a brain hemorrhage, which prompted doctors from several hospitals to find a way to treat the infant. Adults would typically undergo an open-skull surgery to operate on the aneurysm, but doctors did not want to operate on the infant and wanted to find a way to repair the damage from the inside.
Doctors used a tiny microcatheter which travelled from Ashlyn's right hip. The catheter was navigated into the her neck and next to the aneurysm using a brain imaging machine. Ebersole then deposited the surgical superglue to the blood vessel which sealed the blood vessel in seconds.
"It's literally the same compound as the superglue you'd find in the store," Ebersole said, according to SFGate.
The rare procedure, which took about 45 minutes, is believed to be the first to be used to operate on an infant's brain.
Ashlyn's parents thanked Ebersole for saving their daughter's life. "I can't express how incredibly lucky and graced we are," said Gina Julian.
Ashlyn is currently resting and will return to the hospital where the blood spilled by the aneurysm into the brain will continue to be drained.
Ebersole believes that the aneurysm will not affect Ashlyn ever again. "I think she's going to have a perfectly normal life," he said.
Zika virus: 7 important facts
Here are seven important facts everyone should be aware of regarding Zika Virus.
Minister spanked naked bottoms to administer 'spiritual discipline', court hears
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Ted Cruz 'not a Christian' after refusing to endorse Trump


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Jamaica Tallawahs v Guyana Amazon Warriors, CPL 2016, Kingston
Shakib, Gayle rescue Tallawahs from 2 for 4
Jul 15, 2016: Shakib Al Hasan and Chris Gayle helped Jamaica Tallawahs overcome a dramatic top-order collapse that saw them slump to 2 for 4 in the first seven balls, to chase 129 against Guyana Amazon Warriors at Sabina Park
Dhaka Premier League 2016
Tamim hails Shakib, Mosaddek for Abahani's mid-season comeback
Jun 22, 2016: Abahani Limited captain Tamim Iqbal has lauded his team-mates for producing a comeback midway through the Dhaka Premier League's first phase, which ended up giving them their 18th title
Dhaka Premier League 2016
Bowlers set up Abahani's crushing win over Victoria
Jun 18, 2016: A round-up of all DPL matches played on June 18, 2016
Dhaka Premier League 2016
Ashok Menaria takes Doleshwar to top spot
Jun 1, 2016: A round-up of all DPL matches played on June 1, 2016
Dhaka Premier League 2016
Shakib returns to Abahani after six years
May 27, 2016: Shakib Al Hasan is set to appear for Abahani Limited for the first time in six years on Saturday in their Dhaka Premier League match against Prime Doleshwar Sporting Club
India v Bangladesh, World T20 2016
Uncertainties - but also bright spots - emerge from Bangladesh's heartbreak
Mar 24, 2016: Five thoughts on where Bangladesh stand in the aftermath of their one-run loss to India
India v Bangladesh, World T20, Group 2, Bangalore
Shakib calls for top-order push in Powerplays
Mar 22, 2016: Bangladesh's batting in the Powerplay is the aspect of their game that requires most urgent improvement, Shakib Al Hasan has said
Bangladesh v India, Asia Cup 2016, final, Mirpur
Bangladesh hopeful of Shakib's fitness for final
Mar 5, 2016: Bangladesh are confident Shakib Al Hasan will be fit for the Asia Cup final against India on Sunday after the allrounder suffered a blow on his right thigh while batting in the nets on Friday
Asia Cup 2016
Shakib reprimanded for stump strike
Mar 3, 2016: Bangladesh allrounder Shakib Al Hasan has received an official reprimand for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct in his team's five-wicket win against Pakistan in Mirpur
Bangladesh v Zimbabwe, 1st T20I, Khulna
Shakib cameo seals tense Bangladesh win
Jan 15, 2016: Bangladesh outdid Zimbabwe in Khulna by being the scrappier of the two sides, winning the first T20 by four wickets
Bangladesh news
T20 skills in focus at Bangladesh's base camp
Jan 12, 2016: Training sessions have been about specific skills like throwing on the turn, playing big shots and taking catches at the boundary
Bangladesh Premier League 2015-16
Shakib receives one-match suspension
Nov 26, 2015: Rangpur Riders captain Shakib Al Hasan has been suspended for one BPL match and fined Tk 20000 for two counts of breaching the BCB's code of conduct during the match against Sylhet Superstars on Thursday
Nov 26, 2015: Sylhet Superstars were left wondering what might have been, for the third time in four days
Sylhet Super Stars fall apart in 110 chase
Nov 26, 2015: The voodoo of chasing continued to haunt Sylhet Superstars, as they lost their third consecutive game in similar fashion, this time by six runs to Rangpur Riders, who had made only 109 batting first
Rangpur Riders v Dhaka Dynamites, BPL, Mirpur
Shakib four-for detonates Dhaka
Nov 25, 2015: Rangpur Riders picked up their second win of the tournament after trouncing Dhaka Dynamites by 69 runs
Bangladesh news
Jurgensen ready for Rangpur juggling act
Nov 19, 2015: Shane Jurgensen has said that his experience as Bangladesh's head coach will give him a slender edge in working with the Rangpur Riders in the BPL
Bangladesh v Zimbabwe, 1st ODI, Mirpur
Mushfiqur, Shakib lead Zimbabwe rout
Nov 7, 2015: Bangladesh recovered handsomely from early sluggishness to beat Zimbabwe by 145 runs in the first ODI in Mirpur
National Cricket League 2015-16
Rajshahi hold on for draw as rain rules
Sep 21, 2015: A round-up of the National Cricket League matches that ended on September 21, 2015
Bangladesh v SA, 2nd Test, Mirpur, 3rd day
Hosts use rain delays to keep 'minds fresh'
Aug 1, 2015: Shakib Al Hasan spoke of the Bangladesh's frustration on having a second consecutive day washed out due to rain, but said the players were doing other things to stay focused
Bangladesh v South Africa, 1st Test, Chittagong, 3rd day
When Shakib batted on for Liton
Jul 23, 2015: Liton Das and Shakib Al Hasan teamed up to take Bangladesh past a few small milestones on the third day. Shakib shepherded Liton along the way, but the youngster may have to do the same on his own, very soon
|Showing 1-20
Loose West Indies succumb to Ashwin's wiles
One after another, the hosts' batsmen attempted questionable flicks and drives in their second innings, disregarding the drift and dip the offspinner was generating
Fresh Sabina track to refresh West Indies?
The likes of Alzarri Joseph and Miguel Cummins could narrow the gap between the two sides in Jamaica, on what looks set to be a green pitch
Ashwin emulates Botham with ton and seven-for
Stats highlights from the fourth day's play in Antigua where Ashwin's maiden five-wicket haul outside Asia bowled India to an innings victory
Four double-tons in a day, and a Eddie Redmayne lookalike
Also: the fastest Indian to 50 wickets, and Yasir Shah's unwanted "double-hundred"
Shami bounces back with new weapon
Returning to Test cricket after a long layoff, Mohammed Shami ran up with noticeably shorter strides and dismantled West Indies' top order with pace and bounce
The case for four-day Tests (78)
Shorter matches spell good news for spectators and broadcasters. Cricket has a little to lose and a whole lot to gain by truncating its premier format
Fresh Sabina track to refresh West Indies? (73)
The likes of Alzarri Joseph and Miguel Cummins could narrow the gap between the two sides in Jamaica, on what looks set to be a green pitch
Standout performers continue to carry England (69)
A crushing victory over Pakistan gave England plenty to be pleased about but familiar concerns remain over the make-up of the side
Loose West Indies succumb to Ashwin's wiles (54)
One after another, the hosts' batsmen attempted questionable flicks and drives in their second innings, disregarding the drift and dip the offspinner was generating
Herath versus the mighty Australians? (45)
Sri Lanka's lead spinner must feel like a bus driver in charge of a spluttering vehicle as the hosts strive to challenge a strong Australian side


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Joel Hills
Business Editor
Joel Hills is Business Editor for ITV News. He leads all business coverage and provides in-depth analysis of the latest business stories on the agenda, both in the UK and around the world.
MPs scathing about Philip Green's role in BHS collapse
Parliamentary inquiry into the retailer's role in BHS's failure is a damning indictment of an entrepreneur who was trumpeted over the years.Read the full story ›
Taylor Wimpey boss: House price fall 'not inevitable'
The boss of Taylor Wimpey boss has told ITV News it is "absolutely not inevitable" that house prices will fall following the Brexit vote.Read the full story ›
UK households could face strains amid downturn fears
The Bank of England has relaxed lending rules amid a warning that households could be vulnerable to higher unemployment and borrowing costs.Read the full story ›
After the EU referendum: In defence of experts
Contrary to Michael Gove's belief, people do need experts, now more than ever as we work out what leaving the EU actually means.Read the full story ›
Carney prepares to tackle economic fallout from Brexit
The Bank of England governor has suggested there may soon be a cut in interest rates.Read the full story ›
Did George Osborne overstate his Brexit warnings?
George Osborne has said the UK economy is "prepared for the unexpected". So did he overstate his Brexit warnings?Read the full story ›
Market reaction hardly vote of confidence in UK economy
We are entering - and we have voted to enter - a period of intense political and economic uncertainty.Read the full story ›
EU referendum result causes stock market mayhem
As soon as it became clear that Britain had decided to leave the EU the prices of currencies, companies and commodities swung wildly.Read the full story ›
The markets have called it: a Remain victory
The markets have called the referendum result for Remain, but the markets may be wrong.Read the full story ›


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Lexington businesses are thinking outside the box. More accurately, they are planting outside the box — planting herbs and vegetables into their landscapes.
The "edible landscaping" movement has taken on national prominence, and many businesses in Lexington enjoy not only beautiful landscapes, but harvest nutritious and healthy food from them. Mixing edibles with ornamentals isn't new; in fact, many plants we consider strictly ornamental today have edible qualities. What's different now is that home and business landscapes alike are intentionally using plants for food alongside plants we use for beauty. And there's not a raised bed or planting furrow in sight.
The University of Kentucky Arboretum is a prime example of creating beds that mix traditionally ornamental plants with what most of us would expect to see in vegetable beds. "The Dinosaur Kale mixed into the entrance beds was a hands-down favorite last year, especially with children," said Marcia Farris, outgoing arboretum director. Beds and containers are filled with vegetables like chard, kale, lettuces, leeks, corn, herbs, peppers, eggplant and more.
"Many edibles are beautiful plants, and any time you put beautiful plants in a landscape, you increase its value. The fact that it provides food as well as an attractive aesthetic is a win-win," said Molly Davis, the arboretum's new director, who took over the role in January. Produce from the arboretum is donated to Lexington's God's Pantry.
The front yard of Debra Hensley's State Farm office has been filled with multi-tiered containers of herbs and vegetables for several years, furnishing employees, clients and the community with free and bountiful produce. When Lexington lawyer Peter Brown bought his office space on Elaine Drive last year, he wanted to follow Hensley's lead. Situated next to office spaces and apartments, he began by planting tomatoes in the small space bordering his parking lot and building. After amending the soil to improve it, Brown has plans to expand.
"Plans for this year include herbs, a serviceberry tree, perhaps some raspberries or blackberries and more," Brown said. "It only makes sense to use the space for both beauty and to produce food."


text: AdChoices Terms of Use Privacy Policy Hide TOP 10 Top 10 Sports Top 10: Toughest Baseball Pitches Share Tweet 0 Shares 6. Screwball Christy Mathewson Hall of Famer Christy Mathewson was one of the first prominent screwball throwers. He used this tough baseball pitch during his 17-year career, which included an impressive 373 wins, 2,502 strikeouts and an E.R.A. of just 2.13. If thrown by a righty, the pitch makes an unorthodox break from left to right, moving in on a right-handed hitter and away from a left-handed one. Finger position when throwing the screwball is of no consequence; the effective delivery lies in the thrower's arm motion. Next Page TOP 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Comments Share your opinion Your name More Like This Sports and Fitness Fenway Turned 100 This Year! Read More Top 10 Sports 10 Classic Baseball Plays Read More Top 10 Sports Top 10: 2010 Rookies Who Will Make You Want To Watch Baseball Read More Top 10 Sports Top 10: Mr. Octobers Read More Top 10 Sports Top 10: Future MLB Stars Playing Today Read More Top 10 Sports Top 20: Baseball Players Of All Time Read More Around the Web Special Features Guy Gear The Best Watches Under $500 Read More Special Feature The Ultimate Guide To Hooking Up Online Read More


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Rent Seymour and the Big Red Rhino 1st edition today, or search our site for other textbooks by John Powers. Every textbook comes with a 21-day "Any Reason" guarantee. Published by Ambassador Books, Incorporated.
Need help ASAP? We have you covered with 24/7 instant online tutoring. Connect with one of our tutors now.


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Where did Rash"i's commentary leave off when died? Did he finish it? What was he working on?
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On Bava Basra 29a.
He also died on Makkos 19b. See six lines down in the narrow lines.
Not sure where he died first.


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TerraFrame is a Geospatial Decision Support and Internet of Things Software Company
Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) Data Intelligence
GIS Data Intelligence Solutions allow you to intelligently measure the effects of your decision making and report comprehensively in real time to your stakeholders.
- Shorten problem identification time.
- Accelerate time to repair in the field.
- Reduce down time and wasted resources.
- Direct visibility in real time for deploying products and services, based on Geospatial Information Systems (GIS).
- Forensically search events quickly and easily.
- Better estimate assets timing requirements for materials deployment.
- Proactively identify previously unseen threats.


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Love is in the air… again.
Sharon Osbourne is interviewing divorce lawyers … TMZ has learned.
We've rounded up some of the best stories of the day featuring news items on Jennifer Lawrence, Ozzy Osbourne, Michael Jackson and more.
Does this mean Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne are getting back together?
Things are really over for Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne.
This are not looking good for the rockstar.
Is it over for good this time? …
This conversation went off the rails (on a crazy train)…
It's time to see the funniest celeb pics of the week!
This week, we have some hilarious photos of some of your favorite stars like Chrissy Teigen, Jussie Smollett and Khloé Kardashian. Check out all of the pics in the gallery! …
Justin Bieber just revealed we can expect a new album sometime in the near future, and yes, a lot of the inspiration behind the new music comes from Selena Gomez.
Celebrities are just like us! They take bad photos from time to time.
While we normally see celebs in glamorous shots on the red carpet. Sometimes the paparazzi catch huge stars like Emma Watson and Andrew Garfield off guard, and that results in some hilarious pictures! …
Has no one learned from the ham incident? Apparently Jonah Hill's brother hasn't, because he walked away from last night's Pre-Grammy Gala with a wet dress shirt thanks to the one and only Sharon Osbourne.
If you're waiting until tonight's ceremony to get a glimpse of the biggest night in music, wait no longer. The biggest power players in the industry, from Miley Cyrus to Clive Davis and Smokey Robinson, were all out and about last night for a pre-Grammy party that could also be described as the best concert…
Leading up to the 56th Annual Grammy Awards, the music community is partying hard and last night was no different. This time though, they came together to celebrate the accomplishments of Carole King, who just so happens to be this year's MusiCares Person of the Year.
Jessica Simpson can now add $6 million big ones to her billion-dollar fortune.
The reality star-turned-designer has officially sold her Beverly Hills home after five months on the market, Celebuzz has learned.
What's better than a baby in a wig? Jack Osbourne's baby, Pearl, in an Ozzy Osbourne wig (and glasses), duh! And nothing — and I mean nothing — is better than that. Except for maybe today's winning captions.
Apparently, being married to the Prince of Darkness isn't enough for Sharon Osbourne as she now has her sights set on another royal.
In a recent interview with Conan O'Brien on his late night talk show, Mrs. Ozzy Osbourne admitted being open to performing oral sex on Prince Charles. (That's the bloke…
Kelly Osbourne opens up about her father's most recent bout with addiction, as well as her own sobriety, in the newest issue of Cosmopolitan.
Osbourne says she's proud of her father for admitting he'd fallen off the wagon, and for seeking help.
"I love and respect that he's honest enough to say,…
After several tabloids speculated that Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne were getting a divorce last week, Ozzy immediately took to Facebook denying the rumors. Sharon, however, has remained silent on the matter, that is, until today.
Osbourne spoke out on her talk show, The Talk, about the rumors. She confirms Ozzy's assertion that the two…


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Welcome to the Coleman Area Library. The Library provides access to a wide variety of books and magazines, downloadable eBooks and eAudiobooks and free public internet access. Movies are available for rental. The Coleman Area Library also offers a local history collection, a community meeting room and programs for adults and youth. Our friendly staff are here to assist you and answer questions. Visit the library today and sign up for a free library card!
eBooks are now available!
Your library card allows you access to thousands of free eBooks and eAudiobooks! To get started, visit our digital collection: http://mmlc.lib.overdrive.com
Need more help with eBooks? Bring your device to the library during normal business hours for setup assistance, or visit: http://help.overdrive.com
Like us on Facebook!...Read More
Like "StoryHour" on Facebook
Follow the Library's StoryHour group on Facebook to learn about upcoming books and crafts. Visit: https://www.facebook.com/colemanlibrarystorytime to learn more.
Story Time takes place on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, from 9:30am to 11:00am. Parents and preschoolers are invited to enjoy stories, crafts and a snack. This is also a good time for parents to connect with other parents while preschoolers enjoy time with each other. For more information call the library at 465-6398.
Sync - Free Audiobooks this summer...Read More
MeL Databases...Read More
MeL Databases @ the Michigan eLibrary
Your Coleman Library card opens up a world of possibilities through MeL, the Michigan eLibrary! Use MeL Databases to look up a wiring diagram on an old car through ChiltonLibrary, research family history and genealogy, help kids learn beyond school with Bookflix, Brittanica and so much more!
Exam Proctoring...Read More
Exam Proctoring Now Available
For distance learning students and professional development classes which require online testing, the Coleman Area Library now offers Exam Proctoring for a fee. Test dates must be pre-scheduled and are subject to space and staff availability. Please download the Proctoring Policy and Application to learn more about this service. Call the library for more information: (989) 465-6398.
Donations always welcome...Read More
Michigan Activity Pass...Read More
Michigan Activity Pass = Free or reduced cost admission to many Michigan attractions!
The "Michigan Activity Pass" is a partnership between Michigan's public libraries and over 70 arts and cultural organizations. The program provides reduced cost or complimentary access to arts and cultural organizations across the state of Michigan. Library users with a valid library card from any of Michigan's public libraries can print a pass, either from home or at the library, to one of the participating cultural institutions at the http://michiganactivitypass.info website.
Book Bag Giveaway...Read More
Summer Reading Program...Read More
Summer Reading program - July events...Read More


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Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester-North, Rochester
- Free hot/cold buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking
Main amenities
- 124 smoke-free guestrooms
- Indoor pool
- Free area shuttle
- 24-hour fitness center
- 24-hour business center
- 24-hour front desk
- Coffee/tea in a common area
- Air conditioning
- Daily housekeeping
- Computer station
- Front desk safe
- Convenience store
For families
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Rollaway/extra beds available
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Private bathroom
- Premium TV channels
- Free toiletries
What's around
- Rochester Campus of Minnesota School of Business (1.2 mi / 1.9 km)
- Northern Hills Golf Course (2 mi / 3.2 km)
- Douglas State Trail Head Rochester (2.7 mi / 4.3 km)
- Mayo Clinic (6 mi / 9.7 km)
- Assisi Heights (4.6 mi / 7.4 km)
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester-North, Rochester
Hotel Info: 855-238-1591from $101
- Suite, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking
- Two queens bed non smoking
- One king studio suite non smoking
- Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking
- Two queens studio suite non smoking
- One king bed nonsmoking
- Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible
- Two Queen Beds, Non-Smoking, Accessible
Also popular with travelers from the USA
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 124 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 4 floors
- Check-in time starts at 3 PM
- Check-out time is noon
- Express check-in/out
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
Travelling with others
- Pets not allowed
Extra people
- Roll-away beds available, charges may apply*
- Free WiFi in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- Free self parking
- Free area shuttle within 10 mi
Other information
- Smoke-free property
Nearby Two Star Rochester hotels
In the hotel
- Free hot/cold buffet breakfast daily
- Snack bar/deli
- Coffee/tea in a common area
- Indoor pool
- 24-hour fitness facilities
- Spa tub
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- Golfing nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Kayaking nearby
- Mountain biking nearby
- Cross-country skiing nearby
- 24-hour business center
- Conference space size (feet) - 1000
- Conference space size (meters) - 90
- One meeting room
- Conference center
- Computer station
- 24-hour front desk
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Laundry facilities
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Multilingual staff
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Year Built 2009
- Elevator/lift
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Television in common areas
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
In the room
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Coffee/tea maker
- Iron/ironing board
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Premium bedding
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 32-inch LCD TV
- Pay movies
- Premium TV channels
- Desk
- Free weekday newspaper
- Free WiFi
- Free local calls
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
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Recently reviewed hotels in Rochester
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"Had a nice stay. Hotel staff very helpful and accommodating. Hotel provides FREE parking lot. Restaurant in Hotel is very good with reasonable pricing. Will stay here again."May 4, 2016
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Nearby hotels
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester-North, Rochester's small print
Also known as
- Hampton Inn Hotel Rochester-North
- Hampton Inn Rochester-North
- Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester - North Hotel Rochester
- Hampton Inn And Suites Rochester - North
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.
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Need A Karaoke Fix? Skip K-Town And Hit Up The Standard, Hollywood Instead
Preparation for the mack-daddy of award shows shouldn't be limited to buzzing about who got snubbed, debating if Seth MacFarlane is right for the gig, or drafting a drinking game for the red-carpet coverage (though we'll be taking a swig every time Seacrest asks, "Who are you wearing?"). No, friends, giving those vocal cords a little action should definitely make your pre-Oscars agenda.
Visiting from NYC's East Village for just three nights, Chez André will inhabit mmhmmm (you know, The Standard, Hollywood's former Smoke & Mirrors space) with a must-hit pop-up karaoke club. Warm up your pipes, contemplate crowd-pleasing tunes (nothing from Les Mis, s'il vous plaît!), and prepare your hottest to-be-seen ensemble (you do have to woo the doorman, after all). Come Sunday you'll be so beat that parking it on the couch for three-plus hours will be the most welcome way to unwind!
When: Thursday, February 21 through Saturday, February 23, 10 p.m.
Where: mmhmmm at The Standard, Hollywood, 8300 West Sunset Boulevard (at North Sweetzer Avenue); 323-650-9090.
Where: mmhmmm at The Standard, Hollywood, 8300 West Sunset Boulevard (at North Sweetzer Avenue); 323-650-9090.
Photo: Courtesy of Black Frame
- Los Angeles | Chez André - Karaoke At mmhmmm At The Standard Hotel
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