text:
Power line communication system and method
The present invention is drawn to an electrically "closed" method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving data signals over a high voltage power line. Inductive coupling is employed for coupling and decoupling the data signal directly on to and off of a single power line wire. An exemplary device includes a high frequency inductive coupling toroid for data signals, a second (50–60 Hz) inductive coupling toroid for providing power, signal conditioning electronics for the receive and transmit signal, a fiber optics interface for electrical isolation purposes, and a weather-proof enclosure. In a preferred embodiment, the toroids are hinged for ease of installation on a power line. A pair of such couplings on either side of a fiber-optic isolator can be used to bridge transformers.
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This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application No. 09/912,633 filed Jul. 25, 2001, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/268,578 filed Feb. 14, 2001, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
The present invention is concerned with the field of transmitting and receiving high frequency, high bandwidth signals safely and efficiently over power lines. An exemplary system comprises a power line coupler of the present invention, a fiber optic isolator and a communications interface to various media. More specifically, the present invention is drawn to a method and apparatus for coupling to a high voltage power line for transmitting and receiving high frequency, high bandwidth signals.
With well-established power distribution systems (PDSs) already in place throughout much of the world, an efficient power line communication system (PLCS) could provide more users with high-speed telecommunications access with the minimum investment of "add-on" devices.
The infrastructure for providing broadband Internet access is presently insufficient to meet demand. A power distribution system (PDS), however, could be an ideal vehicle for carrying communications signals in order to meet this demand. Development of a power line communication system (PLCS) would therefore provide more users with high-speed telecommunications access. Since the PDS is already built, the time required to implement a PLCS would be minimal.
Of course, there are a series of problems to be overcome before a PDS can be used as an efficient, high-speed power line communications medium. The following issues, while not exhaustive, are representative considerations of what such a system would require in order to use an existing PDS to transport communication data: a sufficient signal to noise ratio; non-disruptive installation of the "add on" device; safety means such that users and circuitry are protected and isolated from stray current; a signal carrier with a frequency sufficient to support high data transfer rate (e.g. 10 Mbps); means for the data signal to bypass a distribution transformer without loss; bi-directional data transmission; coupling devices that do not interfere with data signal handling; an independent power source for electronic conditioning circuitry at power line interfaces; a power line interface that is impervious to extreme environmental conditions; and means for the data to be readily routed to intended locations without loss.
Given the advantages of being able to use the existing PDS for high-speed data communication, an effective method is required to couple and decouple the signals onto and off of a high or medium voltage power line. The coupling and decoupling of the data signal must be at a level sufficient to maintain an adequate signal to noise ratio in order to discern between the data signal and noise or interference on the line. For any method developed, a significant challenge lies in being able to mitigate the adverse effects of the high voltage 50–60 Hz power signal might have on the communications signal.
Whyte, et al. in U.S. Pat. No. 4,142,178 observe: "The use of the distribution network conductors for the transmission of carrier communication signals presents many problems not encountered in high voltage transmission line communication systems. Some of these problems include the poor high frequency impedance characteristics and the high level of electrical noise present on the distribution network conductors which, along with the plurality of distribution transformers and power factor correction capacitors attached to the distribution network, rapidly attenuate the communication signals."
Whyte teaches using a direct circuitry from a line coupler to a remote data terminal thus bypassing the PDS transformer, which is the primary source of data attenuation. The main use for the transmission of communication signals addressed by Whyte was to perform distribution functions such as automatic reading of utility meters and selective load control. Those functions are still desirable, but the function of high speed, high bandwidth communication transmission preclude direct connection from a transformer to remote data terminals economically.
Use of a low voltage power distribution system as a data communications carrier within a premises is well known. Abraham, U.S. Pat. No. 6,014,386 teaches a communications network within a building using the AC wiring as the infrastructure of the network. Different types of appliances using digital signals may be included within the network. The Abraham patent uses an impedance matching scheme to direct a specific signal to a specific location. Couplers at a control location have unique impedances that are matched by corresponding couplers elsewhere within the building. Thus, specific signals will be de-coupled based an impedance match. Abraham also teaches the use of dielectric inductors in circuit with capacitors to tune the impedance characteristics of couplers.
In a similar manner, Abraham in U.S. Pat. No. 5,625,863 teaches the distribution of multiple video signals distributed within a building using the building's AC wiring as the distribution system. Unique impedance settings direct the signals to unique locations. Abraham in U.S. Pat. No. 5,818,127 describes a distribution system for FM signals within a building by use of the building's AC wiring.
Abraham in U.S. Pat. No. 5,717,685 describes the coupling of data signal on and off a building's AC wiring infrastructure. His invention uses capacitive circuits in serial connection. The circuitry also includes air-core transformers. This arrangement allows impedance tuning of the specific couplers. While Abraham claims a system with a fiber optic source for an input signal in his U.S. Pat. No. 6,014,386 patent, there is no description as to the use of fiber optic isolators.
Abraham also states that the utility firm may use the communications system to communicate utility meter information over the PDS.
Methods for avoidance of distribution transformers are well known. Perkins in a series of patents including U.S. Pat. No. 4,473,816 teaches a communications signal bypassing a multi-phase power transformer where the signal uses the PDS as a carrier. The signal is bi-directional and uses conductive material to affect the bypass. The invention uses multiple capacitors in parallel to neutralize the coupling impedance. Further, the winding ratio, R, between the primary and secondary windings ratio is maintained in the signal frequency across the signal bypass. Signal carrier frequency is in the 3–10 KHz range. Similarly, Perkins in U.S. Pat. No. 4,473,817 teaches a communications signal bypassing a single-phase power transformer.
Kennon, U.S. Pat. No. 4,644,321 uses a non-intrusive coupler to capture the data signal. Kennon teaches the use of a toroid having a multiplicity of turns of a conductor that is in circuit with an amplifier and receiver. The toroid core is non-conductive. The signal thus inductively de-coupled is amplified and used for a load management and filed configuration utility terminal. The system requires a battery for circuitry management.
Brown, U.S. Pat. No. 5,949,327 teaches the use of transformer bypass by coupling using capacitors connected to the primary and secondary terminals of the step transformer. Brown recognizes the need for multiple couplings at different points within the EDN (Electrical Distribution Network or, as referred to in the present description as PDS). Brown also teaches that the communication system use a high frequency signal carrier technique such as CDMA.
Moore. U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,519, describes a communication system that couples data signal from a transmission source using an inductor and de-couples the data at the receiver. This methodology is applied in a closed network and requires selective de-coupling as opposed to routing of the signal. Further, Moore teaches the use of a second transformer for reversing any inductor core saturation that may have occurred in the data de-coupling. This method requires time division of the data coupler between data coupling and saturation neutralization.
Dzung, European Patent Application EP948143, describes a high voltage power line communication system that combines multiple source data signals, couples the combined signal onto multiple power lines using capacitive coupling and de-couples and demodulates the signals, separating and converting the signals back to the original form at the receiver.
Power lines can be located in areas with extreme environmental conditions. Thus, the mechanical design must ensure proper operation when exposed to these extreme conditions and also maintain the required level of safety. Furthermore, any methods developed should be designed so as to have minimal impact to service of customers during installation.
Public safety is an absolute requirement. Any system using the PDS must isolate the end user (and public in general) from exposure to electric current. The PDS steps medium and high voltage power down to low voltage power (approximately in the 100–240 volt range) using transformers. Transformers are designed to filter out and ground high frequency signals as a safety precaution. Since a high frequency signal carrier is the ideal medium for high bandwidth data transfer, a communications data delivery system needs to circumvent the transformer filtration process while preserving safety protection.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device for use with a power line communication system (PLCS).
It is another object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device for use with a high frequency signal carrier sufficient to support high data transfer rates.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that operates under the various line voltages within the PDS.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that enables electrical current isolation.
It is still a further object of the present invention to preserve signal to noise ratio for the communications signal.
It is yet a further object of the present invention to preserve signal to noise ratio for the communications signal bi-directionally.
It is another object of the present invention to provide inductive signal coupling in a PDS.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide inductive signal coupling in a PDS where the coupler's core remains unsaturated.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that is non-intrusive.
It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that inductively draws operating power from the power line.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that is self-contained.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that is self-contained and is nearly impervious to environmental conditions.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that uses a toroid inductor to inductively couple and de-couple signals to and from a power line.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a power line coupler device that provides an electronic-to-light transducer to interface with a light conducting isolator.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a non-intrusive power line coupler device with a hinged power line coupler for ease of installation.
The PDS topology can be used to deliver high-speed communications to residential homes in a cost effective way. Applications for such communication systems include high speed Internet, telephony, video conferencing and video delivery. This recitation of applications is not meant to be exhaustive.
The system involves coupling and de-coupling communications data between a data source and a PDS. High frequency signals allow high bandwidth transfers (the higher the frequency of the data carrier, the more cycles per unit time available for data transfer). The signal carrier should exhibit high signal to noise characterstics relative to the underlying system of a 50 or 60 Hz PDS. (The US standard is 60 Hz, but most countries use a 50 cycle per second power system.)
The data signals are coupled on to and off of the power line with a power line coupler (PLC) device. One embodiment of the present invention uses an inductive method to couple and de-couple data signals off of the power line. A toroid with conductive windings is placed around the power line. This method effectively provides a transformer between the power line and the PLC device circuitry thus facilitating the transmission and receiving of the data signal. For the primary side of the transformer, the number of windings and the orientation of the windings around the magnetic toroid is guided by the desire to maximize the flux linkage.
The type of signal used on this channel can be almost any signal used in communications (CDMA, TDMA, FDM, OFDM to name a few). A wideband signal such as CDMA that is relatively flat in the spectral domain is preferred to minimize radiated interference to other systems while delivering high data rates.
Since communications signals are very high frequency, a step down transformer would filter a signal coupled on the power line. The system to which present invention is a component avoids filtering of high frequency signals by bypassing the transformer with a power line bridge (PLB). The PLB, using a PLC device, de-couples data signals from the medium (MV) or high voltage (HV) line a short distance from a transformer. The PLB interfaces between the power line on the primary of the transformer and the low voltage (LV) line on the secondary of the transformer. (The primary is the side of the transformer where the relatively high voltage enters; the secondary is the side of the transformer where the stepped down, lower voltage exits the transformer.)
The PLB is used to prevent the relatively high voltage from passing to the transformer's secondary side yet allowing the communications signal to pass between the PDS on either side of the transformer. The bypass is accomplished with the use of an isolator. The PLC device includes circuitry to interface with an isolator. A preferred embodiment of the system of which the present invention is a component is to use an optical medium as an isolator.
The de-coupled signal from the relatively high voltage power line is converted to light energy (i.e. light signal) by using a transducer and transmitting the light signal over a non-electrically conductive but light conductive medium.
A preferred embodiment of the present system uses a fiber optic cable as the isolator. The isolator is a light pipe that bypasses the transformer. Fiber optic cable is a dielectric thus insulating the PDS on the secondary transformer side from relatively high voltage.
As described in a companion application by the present inventor, application Ser. No. 09/835,532 filed Apr. 16, 2001, the signal is next modulated and de-modulated by a first modem. The signal goes through a data router and then a second modem. The router serves the purpose of matching data packets with specific messages and destinations. The second modem modulates and de-modulates the signal in a form consistent with transport over a LV power line.
The light signal is converted back to an electronic signal and then coupled onto the LV power line (LV coupler). In an embodiment of the present invention a second isolator is inserted in the system between the second modem and the data router for conversion of the light signal to electrical signal. Additionally the isolator proves an additional layer of safety because of the dielectric quality of the second isolator.
The high speed, high frequency signal is then delivered, over the LV power line to the end user's residence or place of business. A power line interface device (PLID) serves as the gateway between the end user's various data appliances and local area network (LAN) and the high speed data transport.
The present invention is a power line coupler device specially suited for coupling and de-coupling high frequency, broadband signals carried over power lines within a power distribution system. The PLC device includes the coupler and circuitry necessary to condition the signal, to handle bi-directional signal transfer, to enable the use of an isolator, to be self-contained and to be able to provide operational power from the power line. The PLC device is part of an overall power line communication system (PLCS) which incorporates the present invention and other, companion inventions from the same inventor. The following description is a description of the PLCS in general. The PLC device embodiment is included in the system description. The description pertinent to the PLC device should be apparent to one skilled in the art.
Referring to
The power line communication system may be implemented in a high voltage and medium voltage environment (i.e. 1–100 kVAC). For purposes of this description and claims, the high and medium voltage portion of the PDS is described as primary voltage (PV). The low voltage portion of the system is described secondary voltage (SV). These terms are arbitrary but used to improve clarity of the description. Similarly, the side of a transfer where the PV line enters is called the "primary" side. The SV side of the transformer is referred to as the "secondary" side of the transformer.
A sub-station 10 delivers PV power to a half loop distribution point, pole dip 12. The power is delivered in parallel to multiple transformers 20 over a PV power line 14. After the transformer is stepped down to a SV power (in the range of 100 to 240 VAC), several end user premises 26 are serviced via a SV power line 24. The step down transformer 20 grounds high frequency signals for safety purposes. Since a high data transfer (high bandwidth) power line communication delivery system requires a high frequency signal carrier, an object of the present invention is to avoid the removal of the high frequency signal by the transformer 20. It is noted that the PV power lines 14 may be above ground or subterranean. The transformers 20 may be aerial mounted on a pole or pad mounted on the ground.
The PDS is viewed as having three channels: PV power line; SV power line; and the premise's wiring. The first channel (the PV cable) has the least amount of noise and least amount of reflections. This channel has the highest potential bandwidth for communications. This is important because it is the channel that concentrates all of the bandwidth from the other channels. The type of signal used on this channel can be almost any signal used in communications (CDMA, TDMA, FDM, OFDM to name a few). A wideband signal such as CDMA that is relatively flat in the spectral domain is preferred to minimize radiated interference to other systems while delivering high data rates.
The second channel (SV line from the transformer to the premise) and third channel (premise wiring) have noise present from electrical appliances and reflections due to the "web" of wires. These channels support a lower bandwidth than the PV channel and they need a more intelligent (with more overhead) modulation scheme. There are several companies with chip sets to achieve good communications for local area networks (LANs) such as: Adaptive Networks (Newton, Mass.), Inari (Draper, Utah), Intellion (Ocala, Fla.), DS2 (Valencia, Spain) and Itran (Beer-Sheva, Israel). These devices would work well for the SV and premise channels.
Data signal and power are carried over the PV power line 14 as previously stated. A power line bridge 46 (PLB) allows the data signal to bypass the transformer 20 thus avoiding the grounding of the high frequency data signal. More description of the PLB follows in the
In one embodiment of the present system, the signal is carried through the premise's wiring 24 and is available to various digital appliances 29, 30, including PC's, by a power line interface device 28 (PLID). The PLID 28 plugs into a standard electrical socket and allows the digital appliance to send and receive digital data. An alternative embodiment as described later, uses a communications interface located outside of the premise and the data signal is directly fed to the premise.
Referring next to
A backhaul interface 50 allows direct communication with POP 40. The signal is passed through a high or medium voltage signal modem 52 (PV modem). An isolator 54 is used to prevent electric current from flowing between the PDS and the components leading to the POP 40. The isolator 54 is made from dielectric material. The isolator, in a preferred embodiment of the present system, is a fiber optic light pipe. More description of the isolator and its components occurs in the description referring to
The isolator 54 bridges between the PV modem 52 and a power line coupler 56. The PV modem 52 within the AP 44 conditions the signal for transmission over the PV power line 14. When data is transmitted by the end user and is de-coupled off of the PV power line, the PV modem 52 conditions the signal for transmission back to the POP 40.
In one embodiment of the present system, the power line coupler 56 comprises, along with other components, an inductor having a toroid (donut-like) shaped core. The toroid core has permeability qualities to improve signal to noise ratio. More description of a preferred embodiment for the power line coupler is presented below. The inductor couples and de-couples a high frequency signal to and from the power line without invading the power line. Once the data signal has been coupled to the PV power line, it is transported on the PV power line 14.
Referring to
An isolator is present between the PLB end couplers 60,72 and the interior of the PLB 46. The isolators, a PV isolator 62 and a SV isolator 70, are composed of dielectric material and insulate the balance of the PLB from potential electrical damage and user injury. A preferred embodiment of the isolator uses fiber optic material. The isolator is discussed in more detail below.
A PV modem 64 modulates and de-modulates the signal to and from the PV isolator. The PV modem conditions the high frequency signals for transmission over the PV power line 14. The SV modem 68 conditions the signal for communication over a SV power line. In one embodiment of the present invention, a data router 66 is between the SV modem 68 and the PV modem 64. The function of the data router 66 is to prioritize and gather packets from all of the devices on SV power line side PV power line side. The data router 66 provides data packet management of end user transmission.
The signal (going to the end user) is coupled onto the SV power line by the SV coupler 72. The SV power line 24 delivers the power service to an end user premise 26. A "web" of wires distributes power and signal within the premise. The user draws power on demand by plugging an appliance into a power outlet. In a similar manner, the user may use a power line interface device 28 (PLID) to digitally connect data appliances, receiving and sending data signals carried by the power wiring.
A PLID 28 can have a variety of interfaces to the subscriber's equipment 30, 32. Some examples are RJ-11 Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), RS-232, USB, and 10 Base-T. A subscriber can have more than one interface device 28 on the same premise wiring.
Referring to
Referring to
The toroid 104 has direct electrical connection to the signal conditioning electronics used for transmitting and receiving the data signal. Transmit and receive circuitry 110 carries data signal to signal conditioning electronic components. As depicted in
The design of the transmit side is done to maximize the power of the drive signal in order to keep the signal to noise ratio of the coupled signal at least to the level acceptable for the overall communications system. The receive side contains a low noise amplifier designed to handle the lowest acceptable transmit signal level of the system. At a system level, the modulation and signaling scheme is done to minimize interference between transmit and receive signals.
The signal conditioning circuitry communicates with the fiber optics interface via an electronic/light transducer 116. Laser diodes may be used to implement a light transducer. The transducer converts electrical signal to light signal in the receive circuitry 114. The transducer converts light signals to electrical signals in the transmit circuitry 112. The light signal is transmitted to and from a light pipe 130 (fiber optic cable). The data signals are communicated back and forth between the power line coupler 100 and the Communications Interface 140 via a fiber optic cable 130. The Fiber Optic Isolator breaks any electrical path between the two devices thus providing safety for the system.
With the power line coupler device being a "closed" system, power for the electronics must be derived internally. Batteries may be an option but replacement would be costly and impractical. In one embodiment of the power line coupler device, a power draw toroid 106 is provided. The power draw toroid 106 has magnetic characteristics appropriate for coupling low frequency signals, thus inductively drawing some of the power off of the power line and providing a power supply 118 for the power line coupler device.
For additional safety, the power line couple device external shell or housing 102 is constructed from dielectric, corrosive resistant, weatherproof materials and is designed to significantly reduce any possible exposure to the high voltage potential present on the power line. The Fiber Optic Isolator 130 is the only connection between the power line coupler device 100 and the communications interface 140. Further, the light pipe is encased in the insulated housing 102. The first priority of the housing 102 is to protect from exposure to the high voltage potential. It is also designed to ensure proper operation under extreme environmental conditions. The external shell is assembled using fasteners including adhesives. The assembled shell is sealed with a dielectric, weatherproof sealant around any seams, fasteners, and power line and conduit openings. Sealing enhances the weatherproofing.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a "hinged" toroid design allows for easy installation and minimal impact to customer service. The toroids, one or two coupling toroids and a power supply toroid, simply snap around the power line using existing utility tools and techniques.
The communications interface 140 communicates with the power line coupling device 100 via the fiber optic isolator 130. Received signals are separated into digital data signals and any other communication signal that may be carried by the PV power line.
The description of one embodiment of the present system including a PLB 46 for providing a means for converting light signals to coupled digital data signals as delivered to a premise over SV power line has been made. The communications interface implements the coupling and de-coupling of digital data signal on and off the SV power line in a similar fashion.
A system as disclosed herein is useful to provide data services to the residential market place at 10 Mbps. This makes an entire new range of applications practically available. Each device connected to the PLID would (if desired) have an address and would be accessible remotely. Some examples include broadband Internet access, remote utility meter reading, Internet Protocol (IP)-based stereo systems, IP-based video delivery systems, and IP telephony.
The present system and the present invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and improvements may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.
1. A method for communicating high-frequency data signals through power lines, comprising:
- at a first device: inductively de-coupling first data signals representing first data from the power line; demodulating the first data signals to provide the first data; transmitting the first data through a fiber optic cable that is sufficient to isolate power line voltages if such voltages are conducted to the fiber optic cable; receiving second data from the fiber optic cable; modulating the second data to form second data signals; and inductively coupling the second data signals to the power line;
- at a second device: inductively de-coupling the second data signals representing second data from the power line; and demodulating the second data signals to provide the second data.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the and second data is modulated using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM).
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second data signals are comprised of broadband signals.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the first data comprises telephony data.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first data comprises video data.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising at the second device, transmitting the second data to a user device.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein transmitting the second data comprises wirelessly transmitting the second data.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein transmitting the second data comprises transmitting the second data via a low voltage power line.
9. The method of claim 6, wherein transmitting the second data comprises transmitting the second data via a twisted pair conductor.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising at the second device, routing the second data.
11. A method for communicating high-frequency data signals through power lines, comprising:
- at a first device: receiving first data signals comprising first data from a user device; demodulating the first data signals to provide the first data; modulating the first data to provide second data signals; and inductively coupling the second data signals representing first data onto the power line;
- at a second device: inductively decoupling the second data signals from the power line; demodulating the second data signals to provide the first data; and transmitting the first data through a fiber optic cable that is sufficient to isolate power line voltages if such voltages are conducted to the fiber optic cable.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first data is modulated using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM).
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the second data signals are comprised of broadband signals.
14. The method of claim 11, wherein the first data comprises telephony data.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the first data comprises video data.
16. The method of claim 11, wherein receiving the first data signals comprises wirelessly receiving the first data signals.
17. The method of claim 11, wherein receiving the first data signals comprises receiving the first data via a low voltage power line.
18. The method of claim 11, further comprising at the first device, routing the first data.
19. The method of claim 11, further comprising at the first device, prioritizing the first data.
20. A system for providing communications over a power distribution system having a medium voltage power line, a plurality of low voltage power lines extending to customer residences, and a first transformer coupling the medium voltage power line to the low voltage power lines, the system comprising:
- an aggregation device having a first modem communicatively coupled to the medium voltage power line,
- said aggregation device further including a backhaul interface communicatively coupled to said first modem and configured to provide communications via a fiber optic cable;
- said aggregation device further including a first inductive coupler communicatively coupled to said first modem;
- a first transformer bypass device having a second inductive coupler and a second modem communicatively coupled to the medium voltage power line via said second inductive coupler for communications with said first modem;
- said first transformer bypass device further including a third modem configured to communicate with a plurality of communications devices at customer premises;
- said first transformer bypass device further including a router in communication with said second modem and said third modem; and
- wherein said first transformer bypass device provides a data path between the medium voltage power line and one or more communications devices at customer premises thereby bypassing the first transformer and wherein voltages of the medium voltage power line are not conducted to the plurality of low voltage power lines by said first transformer bypass device.
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|0 913 955
|May 1999
|1 217 760
|June 2002
|2 293 950
|April 1996
|November 1999
|May 2003
Other references
- "Centralized Commercial Building Applications with the Lonworks ® PLT-21 Power Line Transceiver", Lonworks Engineering Bulletin, Echelon, (Apr. 1997),1-22.
- "Demand Side Management with LONWORKS® Power Line Transceivers", LONWORKS Engineering Bulletin, (Dec. 1996), 1-36.
- "Outlook Conference 2004: Amperion Deployment Overview", Primen Conference, (May 7, 2004),1-10.
- Barstow, J M., "A Carrier Telephone System for Rural Service", AIEE Transactions, (1947),301-307.
- Dostert, K , "EMC Aspects of High Speed Powerline Communications", Proceedings of the 15th International Wroclaw Symposium and Exhibition on Electromagnetic Capability, (Jun. 27-30, 2000),98-102.
- Dostert, K , "Powerline Communications, Ch. 5", Powerline Communications, (2001),286, 288-292.
- Feduschak, N A., "Waiting in the Wings: Is Powerline Technology Ready to Compete with Cable?", www.cabletoday.com/ic2/archives/0301/0301powerline.htm, (Mar. 2001),1-5.
- Jee, G , et al., "Demonstration of the Technical Viability of PLC Systems on Medium- and Low-Voltage Lines in the United States", IEEE Communication Magazine, (May 2003),108-112.
Patent History
Type: Grant
Filed: May 24, 2005
Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
Patent Publication Number: 20050213874
Assignee: Current Technologies, LLC (Germantown, MD)
Inventor: Paul A. Kline (Gaithersburg, MD)
Primary Examiner: Leonidas Boutsikaris
Attorney: Manelli Denison & Selter PLLC
Application Number: 11/135,348
International Classification: G02B 6/44 (20060101);


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I was trying to copy and paste a portion of bible text from Accordance into Powerpoint but was unable to. I had to paste first into Word, then copy and paste from Word to Powerpoint. Since this actually does work I hadn't thought to enquire further. But now that I'm presenting more frequently, it's becoming a little tedious and would appreciate any help on this at all?
So far I was only copying Bible texts but I also tried some other tools and references in Accordance. Same thing, cannot paste directly to Powerpoint.
Does anyone else have this problem? Is there a solution to this?
I'm on Accordance 8.5.6, OSX 10.5.8 and Office2008 12.2.4
Many thanks in advance,
Cannot Copy and Paste into Powerpoint
Started by CWW , May 28 2010 07:31 AM
7 replies to this topic
Posted 28 May 2010 - 07:31 AM
Posted 28 May 2010 - 07:35 AM
PowerPoint now only accepts Unicode input. Simply set your export to Unicode and PowerPoint will accept it. This setting is in Preferences: Greek & Hebrew, but it will also affect the English export.
Helen Brown
OakTree Software
OakTree Software
Posted 28 May 2010 - 08:23 AM
Yeah! Thanks for an easy fix
Posted 21 July 2011 - 10:26 PM
Thanks a million! This is exactly what a needed.
You haven't really lived until you've found something worth dying for.
Posted 09 July 2012 - 08:53 AM
A related question: I am trying to copy and paste Hebrew text from Accordance into MS Word running (in emulation, using VMware Fusion) in Windows. Exporting as Unicode does not work, nor does anything else that I have tried. What would work?
Edited by Harvey, 09 July 2012 - 08:59 AM.
Posted 09 July 2012 - 09:12 AM
Try pasting into TextEdit on Mac, then copying again from there into Fusion.
Helen Brown
OakTree Software
OakTree Software
Posted 09 July 2012 - 09:41 AM
When I try that, the words (but not the letters) appear in reverse order in Word.
Posted 09 July 2012 - 11:29 AM
You are exporting as Unicode? Do you have the Text Direction correctly set to right-to-left in both Text Edit and Word?
Helen Brown
OakTree Software
OakTree Software
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subset: commoncrawl


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Looking for design inspiration? Browse our curated collections!
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Queen duvet cover (88" x 88") featuring the image "Mountain Lake Shadows" by Kendall Kessler. Our soft microfiber duvet covers are hand sewn and include a hidden zipper for easy washing and assembly. Your selected image is printed on the top surface with a soft white surface underneath. All duvet covers are machine washable with cold water and a mild detergent.
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Thanks Jeff!
Great work! f/l
Thanks Laurie and Mariola!
Congratulations on your outstanding artwork! It has been chosen to be FEATURED in the group "500 VIEWS."
This is such a warm, lovely scene, Kendall!!! :)))v
Thanks Veikko!
Really beautiful pastel painting Kendall! L
Thanks Gerald!
This is a very nice job
What a lovely way to spend a day - under this wonderful gazebo by the water...just serene and beautiful Kendall. F/V
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Very nice pastel!
Thanks Randy! I appreciate the compliment and vote very much!
What a great place to spend time doing artwork! Nice piece Kendal. I saw this as a feature in Artists News! Good job! v!
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Beautiful blend of colors...beautiful composition! v/f
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CONGRATULATIONS!! Featured on Female Artists!! Great artwork. Love the colours, textures and composition!!!!!
Average Rating (4.82 Stars):
Linda Fleming
August 20th, 2019
August 8th, 2019
Simone Van Ommeren
August 3rd, 2019
Mountain Lake Shadows is from a series I did of the Mountain Lake resort in Giles County, VA. This was the setting for the movie, Dirty Dancing which starred Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. I am especially pleased with the evening colored light that makes for beautiful patterns in the main Gazebo of this resort. I used to swim in the lake with friends from college. Mountain Lake is a natural lake and has been draining for some time. This drawing was begun many years ago when the water level was up. The trails are great for hiking and this is one of many areas in Southwest Virginia where my husband, Clyde Kessler, researches birds and butterflies. We have stayed at the resort several times with our son. I hope to go back soon. I never tire of working from scenes in this beautiful mountain region. The painting is in a white mat. PLEASE PRESS THE PINTEREST BUTTON AT THE TOP! THANK YOU ARTIST RETAINS FULL COPYRIGHT OF ARTWORK AND IS PROTECTED BY US AND INTERNATIONAL COPYRI...
Kendall Kessler Art is the online portfolio of Award Winning Professional Artist Kendall F.Kessler and former Asst.Professor of Art at Radford University. If you are interested in purchasing an original I ship the painting four days after I receive the check by UPS Ground service which takes 1-5 business days to arrive. I have over thirty years of experience shipping my artwork all over the U.S. with no returns! Just compliments! My paintings were in two group shows on Broadway and my biography is in the original Marquis Who's Who in America and has been in Who's Who of American Women, and Who's Who in the World. I primarily create large impasto oil paintings, but I also work in pastels. I have artwork in private collections in...
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The UK's Leading Data & Analytics Jobs Board
Do you think big data is big now? Just wait till 2016, the Internet of Everything is expanding to nearly every device and service imaginable. The Big Data industry requires specialised skill sets, managing massive databases. If you want to land something seriously exciting, something with the potential of impressive payoffs, think Bigger than Big and browse our site for your Big Data jobs in South West England.
Big Data Jobs Board is the UK Big Data and Analytics industry's very own specialist Jobs Board where you can find the most exciting data jobs and analytics jobs in South West England. The big data jobs boom is just the start in a world that will rely more and more on analytics and data analysis to gain competitive advantage. Join the big data and analytics jobs industry in the UK and be part of an industry in its infancy. Whether you are looking to recruit a big data analytics specialist or looking for your next exciting big data and analytics job in South West England, Big Data Jobs Board should be your go-to place for everything big data.
Big Data Jobs Board aims to be the big data industry's jobs board of choice, combining not only the most exciting big data jobs in South West England but also research from the Universities leading think tanks, rundowns on the University and big data training companies courses around the UK, leading big data consultancies sections and all the news and views from the UK's Big Data sector.
Big data can give competitive advantage and provide operating cost reductions of over 10%, this amounts to billions of Pounds, Euros and Dollars on the bottom line.
The British government estimates that by 2017 big data marketing will have increased the UK economy by £216 billion and created 58,000 new jobs. February 2014 saw the UK government announcing £73 million in new funding to assist the use of big data signalling a commitment to the data revolution. The UK Data infrastructure was supported by £189 million of investment from the 2012 Autumn Statement.
Around a third of the UK's larger organisations, employing 100 or more staff, plan to bring in big data analytics programmes in the next five years. This amounts to around 6,400 large organisations. Big data professionals are set to rise by 243 per cent to 69,000 in number as companies recruit and build big data teams.
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If you are looking for a Big Data job or career opportunity in South West England, look no further than Big Data Jobs Board.


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Shaun's on-air career started with an internship at WICS in Springfield, Illinois, covering politics and government at the state capitol. He covered the political antics of Rod Blagojevich and Barack Obama's race for the national stage. Shaun stayed in Central Illinois to report for WCIA in Champaign, home of his alma mater the University of Illinois. While at WCIA, he reported on everything from deadly tornados to faulty fire hydrants. Most recently, he worked for WREG in Memphis uncovering corruption and crime, but he most enjoys telling stories about real people overcoming unthinkable acts and unbelievable odds.Shaun held internships at WICD in Champaign, Illinois and at WMAQ in Chicago. He also received a master's degree in Public Affairs Reporting from the University of Illinois at Springfield.
Catch Shaun's reports weekdays on News 6.Follow Shaun on Facebook and Twitter.
What do you like about being a reporter?Growing up, I always knew that I didn't want to be chained to a desk. As journalists, we get to witness life's extremes -- the good, the bad, and the moments that will go down in history. At the end of the day, it's not the excitement that matters. What matters is knowing that somehow we made a difference in someone's life. Telling YOUR story is a privilege.
Favorite Restaurant: I'm new to Orlando so I'm open to suggestions! Seriously, I plan to eat my way around town, so email me your favorites!
Favorite Food: Since I'm half-Thai, Thai food is a given. I'll never pass up tapas or dim sum.
Favorite Genre Of Music: Does it have a beat? If it puts a smile on my face, I'll like it!
Favorite Author: David Sedaris makes me LAUGH OUT LOUD. (It gets embarrassing when I read in public.)
Favorite Sport: I was a gymnast, so I'm kinda biased.
Favorite Movie: Google "Groundhog Day" and you'll get the idea.
Favorite TV Show: I'll admit it... I grew up watching Star Trek: The Next Generation. Pile on the nerd points.
Favorite Quote: "Do unto others..."
Place You Would Love To Visit: Bali, Paris, Cape Town, Egypt If you have a story idea for Shaun, email him at email@example.com.


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Here is a little peep at my second post for Snazzys, again using the wonderful Pan Pastels, both for stamping and colouring.
For full details head over to the Design Team Blog. This will also be your last chance to win a set of three of these wonderful pastels by leaving a comment on the first project this month.
Tydzień z kartkami
52 minutes ago


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It's looking more and more like Mike Brown might be rehired as Cleveland Cavaliers head coach by Chris Grant, Brown's good friend who remains the Cavaliers' general manager.
Grant accented defense, Brown's specialty, and said the next coach will be "a teacher, a grinder," according to the Associated Press — fitting with Brown's description. The Lakers will be paying off about $8 million of Brown's salary after firing him a week and a half into the 2012-13 regular season.
The Cavaliers fired former Lakers standout Byron Scott, a longtime favorite of Jerry Buss, as head coach and want to move forward with someone else coaching young star Kyrie Irving.
Brown told Mary Schmitt Boyer of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer that he had previously decided to move his family back to the Cleveland area after buying a home in Anaheim Hills for his Lakers tenure, with his kids going to Mater Dei High.


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"The Bogeyman"
When Danny learns about a new brand of heroin hitting the streets from Nicky, who sees two people overdose, he is put on a frenzied manhunt for the deadly drug. Meanwhile, Frank pulls out all the stops to assist in getting the drugs off the street, on BLUE BLOODS. Pictured: Tom Selleck as Frank Reagan. Photo: CBS ©2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved


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Chase Is Back!
Chase is back.
Everyone is hyped. Will he be the cure all for a sleepy offense? Perhaps, but most likely, it will take him a while to get in a groove. Hope fans don't expect too much too soon.
This is a crazy season. Five runs over the weekend resulted in two wins. Hard to believe. Instead of blaming the offense, credit must be given to the starting pitching. Doc, Cliff and Roy-O have up just three runs in 23 innings, a 1.17 ERA. The loss for Roy-O was his first ever at Citizens Bank Park after 10 wins (Astros and Phillies).
So, the Phillies, still in first place and still with the best record in the NL, take on the Reds in four games starting on Monday night. Can't wait to hear the ovation when Chase is introduced.
Reds' series ends Thursday afternoon. A year ago, Phillies were 5-2 against the Reds, 4-0 at Citizens Bank Park. Going back to the 2009 season, Phillies have won six straight at home. That doesn't include the two wins in the National League Division Series last October.
Phillies connections: Miguel Cairo and Scott Rolen.
Last trade between the two teams: 7/30/07, LHP Matt Maloney to Cincinnati for RHP Kyle Lohse.
Monday night, Doc's Box—Roy will host children from YES, Inc and Lidge's Legion—patients from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia are guests of Brad . . . Wednesday night's game will be on ESPN.
This Date
RHP Tommy Greene tossed the eighth no-hitter in Phillies history, 2-0, against the Expos in Montreal's Olympic Stadium.
Down On The Farm
First-place Lehigh Valley was 3-0 over the weekend, extending its winning streak to six in a row . . . Third-place Reading dropped two of three . . . Second-place Clearwater was also 3-0 . . . Sixth-place Lakewood swept a 3-game series in west Virginia to extend its winning streak to five straight. RF Domingo Santana had two doubles, a triple, fifth home run and four RBI in the last two games.


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Dark Sand
Dark Sand
Available in five sizes, this print can be purchased stand alone or framed with real hardwood options. Unframed prints will match the dimensions of the selection made while framed print size will vary based on mat selection.
For more details, check out the guide below.
Ink-jet Giclée print on heavy weight 230gsm archival matte, FSC-certified, acid-free paper with a smooth, neutral-white finish.
All orders ship for free with tracking and insurance! Prints ship via USPS and frames via FedEx. Pieces are safely wrapped and packaged securely. Orders are printed on demand, shipped, and delivered within 2 weeks.
I am happy to do all I can to ensure you are completely satisfied with your print! If you have any issues, please contact me within 7 days of receiving your order so we can work together to make it right.
No Frame — Unframed print size matches the dimensions of the selection made.
8x10 Frame — Print size without mat: 8x10 / Print size with mat: 5x7
11x14 Frame — Print Size without mat: 11x14 / Print size with mat: 8x11
16x20 Frame — Print Size without mat: 16x20 / Print size with mat: 13x17
20x30 Frame — Print Size without mat: 20x30 / Print size with mat: 16.5x26.5
30x40 Frame — Print Size without mat: 30x40 / Print size with mat: 26x36
Choose between black, white, maple, or walnut options. All frames are ¾" wide by 1 ½" deep and constructed from real hardwoods and include plexiglass, hanging wire and bumpers to protect your wall.
Choose between having your print framed with a mat or no mat. Mat board, if selected, is a double-thick, acid-free 8-ply mat.
Feel free to reach out to me at firstname.lastname@example.com


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, Newcastle by E. H. Baily, RA (sculptor) and Benjamin Green (architect). 1838.
Portland stone statue on coarse gritstone column: Height of column, 134 feet; statue 13 feet. The view up Grey Street takes in the porticos of the Theatre Royal, designed by John and Benjamin Green, opened 1837. Interior redesigned after fire by Frank Matcham, 1900-01.
Photograph 2006 by Jacqueline Banerjee. [You may use this image without prior permission for any scholarly or educational purpose as long as you (1) credit the photographer and (2) link your document to this URL.]
Related Material
- Grey's Column (detail)
- Closer view of statue (frontal view)
- Plaque
- Charles, Earl Grey (1764-1845), Prime Minister 1830-34
Last modified 14 October 2007


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SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch ) — It's a lucky thing for Tesla Motors shareholders that the U.S. Department of Energy loves the company's loan applications.
Without the hundreds of millions of dollars Tesla TSLA, +1.99% has received from the federal government this year, the electric-car maker's financials would be gasping for air as 2012 winds down.
Given the ugly state of Tesla's finances — and the company's sky-high valuation: almost $4 billion — it will rank among the top candidates in Silicon Valley for a 2013 stock collapse, unless it receives significantly more cash next year.
The Palo Alto, Calif., company's financials are, in fact, in worse shape even than such high-profile Internet IPO flameouts as Zynga and Groupon.
As of Sept. 30, Tesla had cash and short-term securities of $86 million, down from $280 million at the start of the year. That leaves Tesla with less than six months' worth of cash, given that it burned through almost $200 million during the first nine months of 2012.
Including its $159 million in automobiles — and smaller items such as accounts receivable and restricted cash — the company's total current assets were worth $285 million at the end of the third quarter. That's down 24% from $373 million at the start of 2012.
CEO Elon Musk had thus burned through a quarter of his tank (so to speak) by the end of September, even while failing to deliver the production numbers promised to both customers and investors. That failure forced Musk in late September to slash by 40% Tesla's 2012 revenue-forecast range, from one with a midpoint of $580 million to one whose midpoint is $420 million.
Including its factories and other longer-term assets, the company held $809 million in assets at the end of the third quarter. At the same time, its liabilities stood at $837 million.
In other words, even with government help, Tesla's balance sheet is in the red.
A year of net losses and negative operating cash flow
On Dec. 3, Musk said via a tweet that the company had been "narrowly cash flow positive" the previous week.
Whether that statement is accurate, or whether the cash flow came from its operating, investing or financing activities are questions we won't know answers to until the company reports fourth-quarter results, most likely to come in February.
Given Tesla's recent history, though, it's hard to see how the car maker could post a quarterly operating profit. In fact, Tesla's cash flow from operations for the first nine months of 2012 was negative, running a deficit of $206 million.
The company's income statement is also pretty ugly, as third-quarter revenue fell 13% from the year-earlier quarter, to $50 million, while Tesla's quarterly net loss widened to $111 million from $65 million. See the company's latest quarterly filing.
Perhaps the filing's most bullish item, if we can call it that, is a $414 million entry on its balance sheet for long-term debt held as of Sept. 30, thanks primarily to the federal loans. That was up 50% from the $268 million it owed at the start of the year. During those same nine months, Tesla sold cars whose worth it pegged at $91 million, or less than a quarter of its debt.
As things stood on Sept. 30, then, the company has less than six months' worth of cash left and a balance sheet in the red — and it's losing more money from operations every quarter. That's about as dot-com-esque as things get, even in Silicon Valley.
Friends in high places
In any other company, this would be cause for serious alarm — and an 11th-hour visit to an investment bank in hopes of drumming up a rescue operation.


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Updated: Wednesday, 09 Apr 2014 23:04 | Comments
Atletico Madrid reached the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time following a 1-0 win over Spanish rivals Barcelona.
Koke's fifth-minute strike was enough to send Atletico through to the last four, although Diego Simeone's men could have killed the tie off in a breathless first 20 minutes.
Atletico, without injured star striker Diego Costa, hit the woodwork three times during their early burst and wasted several other chances late on.
It was the sort of profligacy that Barca might have been expected to punish, but they never found any consistent attacking threat – with Lionel Messi largely ineffective – to send the Catalans to their earliest exit in seven years.
Barca may yet also lose out to Atletico for the Primera Division title – the play each other on the final day – and will do so having suffered a first loss to the capital club in four years.
For Atletico it meant they would play in the last-four of Europe's premier club competition for the first time in 40 years, after they reached the final of the European Cup in 1974.
Atletico's start was so compelling that the only shock was they were just 1-0 up after the first 20 minutes.
Koke grabbed the vital goal to send them ahead in the tie after five minutes, although it could have been so much better, but for hitting their hat-trick of near-misses.
David Villa was the chief culprit, spurning two glorious chances, to build on Koke's early score.
Even that early goal relied on the frame being rattled first, as Barca failed completely to recover after Adrian Lopez thrashed against the right-hand post.
Villa was allowed to dink a cross back across goal and Adrian leapt highest to knock the ball down for an unmarked Koke to side-foot home first time from inside the six-yard box.
Barca were rattled and Villa should have punished his former employers even further when Atletico won the ball on the edge of the area only for the striker to shoot into the left-hand post.
Villa made it the complete set when he hooked a shot over Jose Pinto and on to the crossbar after again easily finding a route behind the Barca defence.
They were the type of chances Costa would have been expected to gobble up.
In any case, Barca's minds were seemingly already frayed to breaking point and goalkeeper Pinto's inexplicable decision to try and dribble out of his six-yard box under pressure from Adrian, before making a lucky escape, hardly settled the visitors.
When Barca eventually did venture forward even Messi appeared tentative, heading a Dani Alves cross wide when he found a gaping hole in the home defence.
Barca did at least start to find a foothold for the remainder of the half, albeit without offering any real threat they would score the goal they now required.
The visitors took just two minutes of the second half, though, to create their best chance of the night.
Xavi rolled a perfectly-weighted pass for Neymar, who took a touch, only for Thibaut Courtois to get out early and push the ball away under the Brazilian's feet.
Courtois needed some luck moments later, though, when he lost balance and Messi blazed over.
Atletico went quiet until Gabi wasted a glorious chance on the counter-attack after 70 minutes.
Barca's defenders backed off him as he ran into the area, preferring to mark Villa's run into the middle, and it proved the correct call when the skipper's weak shot was kept out by Pinto's extended leg.
Moments later Atletico had a strong shout for a penalty, when Javier Maschaerano crashed into the back of Villa, but referee Howard Webb waved play on.
The home side's failure to kill Barca off was increasing the tension inside the Vicente Calderon and when Neymar headed narrowly wide the home fans held their breath.
Still Atletico failed to find the killer second goal and Pinto made another sharp stop to deny Critisan Rodriguez in stoppage-time.
Eventually, however, Webb's final whistle came to the delight of the home fans.
Live coverage of the draw for the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League from 10:55 on Friday 11 April on RTE.ie (RoI only).
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reader discussion
Reader Discussion: Would You Buy New Instruments For A Next-Gen Rock Band?
Today, Harmonix CEO Alex Rigopolus said that the company intends to bring back the Rock Band franchise. Would you spring for new instruments to play one?
Of course, it's possible that Harmonix could make a Rock Band that didn't require plastic instruments (though what fun would that be?) or make an adapter that allowed previous generations of Rock Band instruments to be used with Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
What do you think? Are you excited for the return of Rock Band? Would you buy a set of new instruments to play it?


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Sorry- this contest is closed! Thank you to everyone who entered! We would like to congratulate Commenter #384 (Helen) on winning this great vacuum! Please check back each Tuesday for a brand new giveaway!
Our giveaway with Hoover just got an upgrade. The warehouse accidentally shipped an extra one of these upright vacuums and I am so excited that they are letting me keep it and give it to you! If you have already entered, there is no need to enter again. Just know that your entry got an amazing upgrade and you can read our thoughts about this amazing vacuum here!
I may be in the minority, but I think a brand new cleaning tool is a fun and practical Mother's Day gift that would keep on giving and giving in our family. That is why I am so excited about this fun new giveaway that we are offering up for a brand new Hoover Bagged Upright Vacuum valued at $449.99!
Removing more dirt in a single pass than other lightweight bagged uprights, this powerful vacuum cleaner combines direct air-flow technology with patented Windtunnel Technology for fast, efficient results. Weighing less than 12 pounds, the cleaner moves effortlessly from room to room and up and down stairs. It also provides illuminated fingertip controls for easily turning the power on and off or switching between high and low speeds. The upright vacuum cleaner uses a dust bag with a HEPA filter, which traps 99.97 percent of dirt, dust, and pollens down to 0.3 microns for better indoor air quality. The quick-release, self-sealing bag prevents dirt puffs from escaping, and the cleaner's check-bag indicator illuminates when the bag needs to be changed.
Other highlights include a 12 amp motor, a 14-inch-wide nozzle, automatic height adjustment, and edge-cleaning brushes, as well as a lifetime LED headlight, a comfortable D-shaped handle, and a 35-foot power cord. Even more, the unit comes with a canister vacuum for above-the-floor cleaning and for bare-floor surfaces. Simply attach the included bare-floor brush, dusting/furniture brush, or crevice tool to the end of the telescoping extension wand for thorough, detailed cleaning throughout the house. A detachable shoulder strap for conveniently transporting the canister vacuum comes included, along with a Type Q upright HEPA bag, a Type I portable canister HEPA bag, and a user manual for both the upright and the canister. The upright vacuum cleaner measures approximately 15-1/2 by 13 by 45 inches and carries a six-year limited warranty.
To enter to win this fantastic prize, please leave a comment and tell me what is your biggest cleaning dilemma in your house? Please leave your entry by Tuesday (05/12) at 8PM EST in order to qualify to win. Only one entry per person please! All entries that do not follow these guidelines will be omitted from the drawing and winners will be chosen at random. Good luck to each of you!


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Digital Art, Zzanthia, Art, 3d, 2d
2D Art by Noveland Sayson
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2D Art by Noveland Sayson Noveland Sayson is a Angeles City, Philippines based Freelance 2D Artist. 2D Art by Noveland Sayson, 2D Art, Noveland Sayson, Art, 2D Digital Art, Creature
Art of the Mr. Hublot
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Art of the Oscar Winner Shorts Film 'Mr. Hublot''Mr. Hublot' Characters Concept Art, Art of the Oscar-Nominated Shorts Film 'Mr. Hublot', 'Mr. Hublot': The Art of the Oscar-Nominated Shorts, Mr. ...
Rio Characters Concept Art by San Jun Lee
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Rio Characters Concept Art by San Jun Lee Sangjun Lee, another great artist who participated in the development of the film "Rio" Blue Sky studio. Sang Jun Lee received his BFA in Illustration at the Academy of Art U...
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Character and Concept Art by Eric Guillon The images below are from the character designer Eric Guillon, who shared in his blog some of his creations for the production. Also check The Art of Despicable Me 2 ...
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Ice Age 4 Characters design by Peter DeSeve ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------...
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Seared Salmon with Green Peppercorn Sauce
A simple sauce of piquant green peppercorns, lemon juice and butter tops this seared salmon recipe. Green peppercorns come from the same plant as black ones, but are harvested before they mature. Typically packed in vinegar, they have a refreshingly sharp flavor. Look for them near the capers in most supermarkets. Serve with smashed red potatoes and sautéed kale.


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Letter To The President - Narrated By Snoop Doog Pt. 2 of 2 [Documentary]
Documentary about the roots of political hiphop part 2 of 2&IP=184.108.40.206
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When Grover Cleveland was the Democratic nominee for President in 1884, reports surfaced that the then unmarried politician had fathered an illegitimate child with a widow named Maria Crofts Halpin. The New York governor publicly ignored the scandal but told his close supporters to "tell the truth" that he may have been the father of 10-year-old Oscar Folsom Cleveland. Even Halpin didn't know for certain who Oscar's father was; the boy had been named after Cleveland because he was the only unmarried possibility. Without admitting paternity, Cleveland paid child support for many years.
Republicans accused Cleveland of immorality. He countered by maintaining that despite his indiscretion, he had kept his professional integrity while painting his opponent, James G. Blaine, as a corrupt official at the mercy of Wall Street.
Cleveland won by a wide electoral margin, although the popular vote was considerably closer. And while he got the last laugh, his supporters may have had the best. When Republicans jeered at Cleveland's rallies, chanting, "Ma, Ma, where's my pa?" Democrats would respond, "Off to the White House, ha, ha, ha!"
Next Robert Byrd


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The Knicks have lost 6 in a row. They are 18-24 and are now the 9th seed in the Eastern Conference. If the playoffs started today, the Knicks would be watching the playoffs like the rest of us. From home.
Monday night, the Knicks lost in pathetic fashion to a short handed Bulls team. Despite not having the services of starters, Luol Deng and Richard Hamilton, and backup point guard CJ Watson, the Bulls defeated the Knicks 104-99. The difference in this game was effort. The Bulls wanted to win more than the Knicks did and they won. New York's effort rebounding the basketball was abysmal and unacceptable tonight. Chicago's whooping 22 offensive rebounds were the difference in the game and buried the Knicks in the second half. The Knicks had a chance in the final minute but failed to come back and win the game. With 32 seconds left and the Knicks down 4, Carmelo Anthony inexplicably threw up a contested 29 foot three pointer early in the shot clock and the Knicks fate was sealed.
Here are my notes from the game:
- Jeremy Lin played a very solid game tonight. This game cannot be blamed on Lin. In my opinion, he and Tyson Chandler were the two best Knicks tonight. Lin stepped up to the challenge of facing the reigning MVP. His stat line, 14 points 4/11 shooting 8 assists, will not necessarily show that Lin was a standout in this game, but he was. He did an early job, especially early in the game, of moving the ball and finding open guys. As the game went on, the Knicks ball movement suffered and the ball was taken out of Lin's hands a lot of the time. I did not understand why, with the two point guard rotation, the offense was being initiated by Baron Davis rather than Lin. I think that was a big part of the Knicks scoring just 21 points in the 4th quarter. I really did like how well Lin played defensively tonight. He had a sick block of Rose in the first quarter and finished the game with 3 steals. Lin has not played great as of late, but tonight I thought he was very good.
- JR Smith is killing the Knicks. He played only 9 minutes tonight but he was awful. In the fourth quarter, his two turnovers in 3 possessions resulted in Chicago's lead going from 1 point to 5 points. He scored 0 points tonight. The Knicks desperately need his explosive scoring ability, especially in games where Melo doesn't shoot well. The Knicks needed Smith to provide a spark off the bench tonight and he was unable to do it. If he continues to play this putridly, Smith should find himself a cozy seat alongside Mike Bibby.
- Iman Shumpert should be playing more. 17 minutes tonight? Not good enough. I want to see 20-25 minutes a game for Shumpert. He's not great guarding quick point guards. Fair enough. He is an elite defender on the wing. Ronnie Brewer and Kyle Korver combined for 20 points and 14 rebounds tonight. I think Shumpert could have helped that. While his offensive game, particularly his jump shot, are below average, Shumpert has a role on this team and I think he needs to be in the game for more than 17 minutes.
- The Knicks were embarrassingly bad rebounding the ball. Chicago out rebounded the Knicks 56-38. That is not a typo. New York was out rebounded by 18 boards tonight. 22 of Chicago's 56 rebounds came on the offensive glass. 22 offensive rebounds is unheard of and completely unacceptable. Taj Gibson of the Bulls just totally destroyed Amar'e Stoudemire on the glass. In 26 minutes, Gibson recorded 15 points and 13 rebounds. 8 of his 13 rebounds were offensive. Stoudemire's effort on the boards was offensive to the city of New York and Knick fans everywhere. More on him in a second. Here is the bottom line, the Knicks cannot be lazy on the offensive rebounds. They held Chicago to 43% overall and 35.7% from outside the arc. The Knicks shot 46%. They should have been able to win this game. Their lack of EFFORT on the glass is what lost them the game. I would accept if Stoudemire was working his ass off and just physically was unable to box out Gibson or Noah. My issue comes from the fact that the Knicks, minus Tyson Chandler, did not even try to box out tonight. Numerous times in the game, Knick defenders watched the shot go up while Chicago's big men ran in front of the mannequin defenders to grab offensive rebounds. The Knicks lack of effort to grab rebounds is what lost them this game tonight.
- Before I rip on the Knicks "stars", we need to recognize Tyson Chandler. His effort, heart and will to win are being wasted by this joke of a basketball team. Chandler is a champion. Watching him play alongside Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony really opens your eyes as to what it takes to be a champion. Being a champion has nothing to do with scoring 25 points per game. Being a champion has nothing to do with barking "I do this" at the other team's bench. Being a champion has nothing to do with saying the right things off the court. Being a champion is about doing everything the right way. That means NOT throwing your arms up in disgust when you don't get the ball, Carmelo Anthony. That means finding a man to box out on a defensive rebound, Amar'e Stoudemire. That means being a class act off the court, not posting nude pictures of your girlfriend, JR Smith. That means playing unselfish, winning basketball. Chandler gets it. The rest of the team doesn't. I don't think Baron Davis gets it. I don't think JR Smith gets it. Amar'e Stoudemire understands the concept of team ball and sacrifice, but his laziness on the defensive end of the court trumps anything he does well offensively. Carmelo Anthony has NO concept of what it is to be a winner. Knick fans, appreciate what we have in Tyson Chandler. He is a great leader for this team and it is a damn shame that this team is letting him down.
- I'll start with Amar'e Stoudemire. I like Stoudemire. I think he truly wants to win games and rings with this team. He showed me a lot with his post game press conference last season, when the Knicks were 3-8, that turned the Knicks season around. From everything Stoudemire says in his press conferences after games, he has shown that he understands the team concept of sacrifice. He has sacrificed shots all season and has never complained once. I believe he has tried to adjust his game by shooting more jump shots than he normally would, in order to make him a better fit with Chandler. Here is my gripe with Amar'e Stoudemire. He is lazy on defense and on the boards. Tonight, Stoudemire shot the ball really well. He was 7/12 and scored 20 points. I don't care. I think he sucked tonight. His lack of effort on the boards absolutely killed the Knicks. He recored 3 rebounds. One of them was offensive. Chicago shot 40/93 as a team in this game. That means Chicago missed 53 shots and Stoudemire was able to grab only 2 of them for rebounds. That is absolutely unacceptable. I truly believe that Stoudemire wants to be a winner, but it is damn near impossible to defend him when he records 2 defensive rebounds in 34 minutes. The Knicks do not pay this man a max deal so he can pull down 2 defensive rebounds a game. Third year player Taj Gibson dismantled the Knicks 100 million dollar man tonight. His 8 offensive rebounds were the difference in a 5 point Bulls victory. Stoudemire's offense does seem to be coming around. That is great but it does not help if his defense continues to be well below average. In order for this team to win games, Stoudemire must be consistently focused on defending and rebounding. I was disgusted by his effort tonight and I think he really did hurt the team, especially in the 4th quarter.
- Speaking of somebody else who is hurting the team… Carmelo Anthony is really beginning to turn me against him. I want Melo to be as good as anyone. I think the guy has all the talent in the world and I believe that he is the ability to score as well as anyone in the NBA. Hell, my damn blog is named after him. He was supposed to be the savior to come and put this team over the top and right now he is hindering this team in more ways than one. The Knicks other max money player turned in yet another lackluster performance tonight. Anthony was 8/21 shooting and provided some moments that made me want to tear my hair out. In the first quarter, there was a fast break in which Anthony had a cutting Lin going to the hoop. Rather than dish the ball, Anthony ran up court with his head down looking for the 3 point line. When he had gotten over half-court, he knew he was going to shoot the ball. He pulled up in transition and bricked the 3 pointer. Melo is a career 31.9% three point shooter. Why on earth is he pulling up for 3's in transition? If Novak does it, I can live with it. Same with a sharp shooter like a Kyle Korver or Ray Allen. Carmelo is not that kind of player. He should be looking to play UNSELFISHLY, rather than look for his own shot on a transition fast break in which he has an open guy cutting to the rim. I vividly remember another instance in the game, I think in the 4th quarter, when Anthony missed a three and nonchalantly jogged down the court while Lin and Novak tried to stop the on coming fast break. It was totally unacceptable and showed a lack of passion and caring on account of Anthony. Later in the 4th quarter, Anthony was posted up and calling for the ball. The Knicks were unable to get him the ball in the possession. Anthony was livid on the floor, screaming as he moved away from the play. He was probably justified in being upset. He should have gotten the ball. Nonetheless, Anthony showed his immaturity and selfishness by getting angry at his teammates. That is not what leaders do. Anthony should have put his head down and went back to work on the defensive end of the floor, rather than display "starburian" body language and yell at his teammates. With the Knicks down 5 with 32 seconds left in the game, Anthony took a horrible contested three. Rather than look for his teammates, Anthony tried to play hero ball and ended up looking like an ass. He missed the shot and the fate of the Knicks was sealed. Carmelo Anthony is doing absolutely nothing to justify his max contract. He has been selfish, unprofessional and lazy. Right now, Anthony is totally disconnected from the rest of the team. Him and D'Antoni don't see eye to eye and therefore Anthony has mentally checked out. He does not care if the Knicks win or lose. Sure, after the game, he says that losing baskeball games sucks but he does nothing during the game to change the game. Kyle Korver dove for a lose ball late in the game that gave Chicago another possession. Anthony was right next to him. He did not have the heart that KYLE KORVER had to dive on the ground and grab the ball. It was lazy and pathetic on Anthony's part. In his post game press conference, Anthony did not seem to have the same depressed demeanor that Amar'e Stoudemire had. He made a few jokes and smiled a few times. It is so clear to me that either Anthony doesn't care, doesn't get it, or both. He needs to understand something. He is being portrayed as the villain of this team. The fans are turning on him. He has been a disaster and he seems to be getting worse. If he does not improve some heart and effort, Anthony will become the epicenter of all hate in New York sports.
- In my opinion, you can't blame the coach right now. Sure, Mike D'Antoni isn't perfect, but this teams problems stretch far beyond their lame duck coach. The Knick PLAYERS deserve 90% of the blame. D'Antoni could improve on a few things, but Mike D'Antoni was not lazy on the boards tonight. Mike D'Antoni did not give up 22 offensive rebounds. Mike D'Antoni did not shoot 3/11 from beyond the arc tonight. Mike D'Antoni isn't being paid a 100 million dollar max contract to shoot 8/21 in the game and 40% on the season. The bottom line is that this team needs to try harder. This is not AAU hoops in which the coach must motivate his players to try. This is the NBA. These are grown men. Carmelo Anthony has been in the league since 2003. It should not be D'Antoni's job to motivate these guys to try. Say what you want about D'Antoni. Un-knowledgable fans will use D'Antoni as a scapegoat based on their lack of basketball knowledge. I'm not going to say I'm some basketball analyzing god. I'm not. I've been wrong before but I know this much: this teams problems stretch beyond their head coach. If you know basketball, you can see the Knicks are not being out-schemed. The Knicks are not being out-coached. Tonight, the Knicks were out-worked. As Bill Parcells once said, "if you can't get up for this game, then you ought to go home". The Knicks couldn't get up to play the Chicago Bulls at the United Center? Are you kidding me? Tonight was a totally pathetic loss on so many levels. The Bulls were short handed and did not shoot well. If the Knicks would have put decent effort into rebounding, they would have won this game by 10 points tonight. Don't blame this one on D'Antoni. He didn't lose this game. The Knicks players lost this game and they ought to be embarrassed by their performance tonight.


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I was going to order an R level SAP pack until I realized that the least expensive shipping option cost just over $13. Since the SAP pack itself is $14, shipping nearly doubled my cost. There used to be a media mail option I used for these smaller orders. Is that no longer available?
Many thanks,


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Moderator: Van Canna
Broadly speaking, there is a significant lack of effective instruction in confronting the physiological and psychological stresses that occur during all physical conflict. Truth be told, most highly ranked instructors in budo have virtually no experience with the symptoms of PCS and many even refuse to acknowledge its debilitating effects. The result of this omission is that a majority of students in budo are given a false sense of security, believing that they can somehow translate their growing technical dojo prowess into actual street effectiveness. Such belief is a statistical fantasy, and a dangerous one at that.
The chances of successfully navigating the adverse effects of PCS are compromised significantly if one is involved in a form of budo predominantly driven by a teaching model based on cooperative partner interaction. No dojo or seminar training environment can replicate an actual violent confrontation.
OUCH"Remember that most people who call themselves martial artists are nothing of the sort. Most dojos are not martial arts dojos either. They are glorified social clubs thriving in an environment of emotional stimulation which is heightened by a false or extremely limited perception of danger. When real danger shows itself in such a dojo, the participants run for cover. In a real dojo the participants run towards the conflict."
For a vast majority of budo practitioners, even experienced ones, to effectively apply technique during an actual violent encounter requires familiarity with the onset and debilitating effects of PCS. Without such experience, the technical syllabus one has spent years perfecting in the dojo is simply unavailable. It is like a box of valuable tools locked behind closed doors without a key. Training that includes such high level intensity that one frequently experiences PCS is the key to unlocking the valuable waza you have dedicated years in the dojo to learning and perfecting.
The first level towards experiencing PCS is to allow the speed and power of the attacks to reach a level significantly higher than one can easily handle. One should function only in a protective or defensive mode at this point, attempting to weather the dizzying array of attacks by utilizing only taisabaki, blocks & parries.
One should get hit and hit frequently at this level of training. No active defense such as counter attacks or throws should be attempted at this level of PCS training. The point is to experience the overwhelming confusion associated with a violent attack. Bang!
For many people unaccustomed to overwhelming physical conflict, the adrenaline dump will stop them like a brick wall.
One will start shaking, hearing will become tinny and one will realize that all they can physically manage are gross motor movements. Occasionally some people will develop tunnel vision and may even lose their hearing temporarily. This is not a pleasant experience and it isn't meant to be. It's intended to put one under extreme stress. In this type of training it is absolutely necessary that you find a partner you trust completely, one who can function as an attacker but whose technique and control are of such a high technical level that the chance of serious injury is greatly diminished.
The next level of training will require more protection for the attacker and less for you as you will start attempting to apply your own techniques in response to the attack.
The actual technique is not strictly important so safer, less dangerous applications of technique are appropriate here. It is the mental and physical calmness in the application of technique during extreme duress that matters most now.
You should develop a calm enough mind to draw any response from the previously locked box of techniques you have acquired in regular dojo training. Through PCS conditioning, you've acquired the key to access the best waza you have available to you.
Well if you train with weapons then you can't really think like that
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Community Spaces, a £58 million Big Lottery Fund programme managed by Groundwork UK, saw more than 900 community groups across England create or restore playgrounds, parks, allotments, gardens, wildlife areas and other public open spaces in their neighbourhoods.Many of the groups involved had little or no experience of running major projects, so Groundwork-appointed expert facilitators worked with them through the entire process – from initial public consultation, through planning processes, tendering, contract management and final construction.
All successful groups qualified for sustainability funding of between £3,000 and £30,000 once they had completed the capital works, helping them to ensure a long life for their project and widen its appeal.
Independent evaluation of Community Spaces has shown that by the end of the programme in March 2014 the project had seen:
Anti-social behaviour, vandalism, litter, graffiti and dog fouling are all decreasing as a result of Community Spaces projects.An extension to the Community Spaces programme saw extra money provided to groups to improve their sustainability. Grants were also made for groups to 'Celebrate Their Space' with community events.Graham Duxbury, Chief Executive of Groundwork UK, said: "A fundamental principle behind Community Spaces has always been that we should help community groups to make a difference now and in the future."Our support has seen the creation or improvement of hundreds of playgrounds, parks, allotments and biodiversity projects across England and helped community groups to continue to make a difference."It's a legacy of which we are very proud."Peter Wanless, Chief Executive, Big Lottery Fund (2008-2013) said: "Groundwork's Community Spaces programme has supported hundreds of communities across England in improving their local green spaces. Recently, we provided further funding to help them to continue to make a difference in these tough economic times. We are confident Groundwork will make this happen."Click here to read the End of Programme Evaluation of Community Spaces
Quotes from community groups"The site we developed has gone from being the area's most derided eyesore to the most highly praised green space in the area.""The local children take great pride in their new park and the sense of comradeship and friendship the park has generated is brilliant. Everyone works together to keep the park clean and it is used every day by all ages. A vast improvement as it was rarely used before the work was done.""Since being awarded the Community Spaces grant to renovate our local playing field we have seen some amazing changes in our village. Not only do we now have a really beautiful, inspiring and fun place for children to play in, but we have seen a massive increase in the number of village groups, organisations and activities happening.""When we originally applied to Community Spaces we had very little experience of such major funding applications, but we continued as we were dedicated to upgrading our local playground. During the application process we learnt many things about our local area and planning laws/issues. The sense of achievement gained when we heard we were successful was immense and the confidence gained was immeasurable."
The Federation of Groundwork Trusts. Lockside, 5 Scotland Street, Birmingham, B1 2RR. Tel: 0121 236 8565. Email email@example.com
Charity registration number 291558 | Company reg 1900511


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Cartoon Network is going to start making "reality" shows. I enjoy Cartoon Network's shows, and if I think to myself, "Gosh, I want to watch a cartoon" chances are I'll look at Cartoon Network. It covers its niche well, from kids shows to the highly lauded and successful Adult Swim and late night Anime. But no, not good enough for them to be a highly successful Cartoon showing network. Variety reports that Cartoon Network is producing 4 reality shows out of the 13 new shows on their new slate and partnering with the NBA to produce a short form segment.
The NBA tie-in is likely a response to Disney XD's much-publicized partnership with ESPN. Disney XD is seeking to wrest the 6-11 boys demo from Cartoon, but it faces an uphill battle. Cartoon's focus on boys over the past year has earned it further dominance over its target aud, traditionally the most lucrative kid demographic for advertisers. The presentation was filled with thinly veiled refs to "the kind of sanitized shows you see from the competition," as more than one exec put it.Seriously? you're feeling threatened by Disney XD's tie-in? they're trying to wrest the demo from you!!! The fact that they are doing better in comparison to you does not mean they are better at what you're doing than you are. In an attempt to capture the all too exciting boys 6-11 demo these two seem to be in a Red Queen (you should read this book) race to nowhere.
Understandably with the Ad Model falling on its face and viewership falling in general, it is logical that networks might feel insecure. But from an evolutionary perspective, once an organism has demonstrated a characteristic that makes it thrive, it passes on its successful traits to offspring. The reason for Offspring is then to further test that trait, to proliferate a successful adaptation. Cartoon Network should not be watering down its brand with non-cartoon knock offs of other shows.
Turner Broadcasting should be utilizing the lessons it could learn from Cartoon Network's success and expand into additional niche markets. Something else happens when a trait is ignored and no offspring are created: the trait disappears from the gene pool. In the frenzy to gain the broadest audience, they may sacrifice what made the original worth while, that it was a highly successful specialist.
If they have enough talent to create new programming in a different style for kids, they should be making a new network that would serve as a generalist: TBS Kids, TBA, TNBA; or add more kids programming to the CW. Frankly put, Cartoon Network should not be Turner's generalist unless the reality shows are animated.


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Understanding magnetic reconnection is one of the major challenges of plasma physics. It plays an essential role in a wide range of physical systems such as stellar flares, accretion disks, active galactic nuclei, astrophysical dynamos and closer to home, intense magnetic energy releases in the Earth's magnetosphere. It is a phenomena which can be created in the laboratory.
Magnetic reconnection occurs when oppositely directed components of field lines are broken and re-connected resulting in destruction of magnetic flux and topological rearrangement of magnetic field lines on very small scales. This can induce the release of magnetic energy on large scales resulting in high speed flows, heating and energetic particle production.
There is a strong connection between formation of singular structures in flows and magnetic reconnection which I will discuss and tie this into some of the laboratory and natural physical systems under recent study.
In addition to giving a contemporary overview on this subject I will discuss some open questions.