Learn About Furnace Torches, Gas Torches, And Soldering Torches

June 14th, 2008 KentKlein Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

Metal Casting provides the hobbyist with a great way to create personalized parts and pieces that may otherwise be unattainable or far too expensive. Casting is an ancient art that is still is use to this day by major industries to artists to those with backyard foundries. This skill is a valuable one that promises to provide the hobbyist with a rewarding past time. Most hobbyists begin their casting careers with a modest sized furnace to fit their most basic needs. Within a few months, the hobbyist might find that the furnace has grown and that they are casting at every chance that comes along. Don’t worry, this is completely natural.

To say that metal casting is addictive is an understatement. Metal casting provides a way for an idea to materialize through molten metal. This is perhaps one of the greatest parts of the entire metal casting process like seeing what was once just sketches solidify from liquid iron, or whatever metal is used. All the metal caster needs is an idea and red hot liquid metal.

The furnace is the pride and joy for the metal caster. Most will construct their own furnace tweaking the design here and there to better suit their needs. Many home foundries are based on home made furnaces and if constructed correctly can prove to be highly effective. The crucial part of the furnace is the furnace torch. The torch brings the heat, incredibly high heat, and without it that chunk of metal would just sit in the crucible and never see life as something new and exciting. Except as a paper weight; a very ugly paper weight.

When searching for an appropriate casting torch the hobbyist will need to take several things into consideration. The size of the furnace, and what metals you plan to use are chief among the considerations. Many casters will use a torch that uses propane gas as it provides enough pressure and heat to melt most metals. If the hobbyist plans to use natural gas like the kind that is provide in households they may find that the pressure is just not enough and the desired temperatures will not be reached. The same is true for Butane. While natural gas and Butane can be used, propane seems to yield the best results. Oxyacetylene torches are a favorite with many casters especially for casting iron.

Price is yet another consideration. While it may be possible to rig a casting furnace it is not always advisable. Torches can range in price from $40 to several hundreds of dollars depending upon the size, the use, and accessories.

Many jewelers are able to use small independent casting torches but when dealing with metal casting in furnaces you will need to use a torch that can be mounted and used in such a fashion. Many think that just because you need a furnace torch you are going to need a large furnace. This is simply not true. A small furnace and furnace torch can produce enough heat to melt aluminum, iron, and a number of other metals. One of the furnaces functions is to help the flame reach optimum temperature and in the case of Reverberatory Furnaces, a furnace torch is an absolute requirement.

Casting torches can be found in some hobby shops and in hardware stores. Several online shops also sell torches for the hobby metal caster. When buying a torch hobbyist should shop around in order to find the best deal. Always use caution when dealing with a furnace torch.

Go to Metal Casting Zone to get your free ebook on Metal Casting at Casting. Metal Casting Zone also has Gas Torch Forum, Smith Torch Blog and a Metal Casting Blog with daily news on Metal Casting. You can Find Metal Casting Zone at www.metalcastingzone.com.

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Crucible Tongs Info and Crucible and Crucible Steele Information

June 14th, 2008 KentKlein Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

From the earliest attempts to make lead into gold and to the more modern use of making those empty soda cans into a replacement part for that model plane, crucibles have been an absolute necessity in metal casting.

Crucibles are placed inside of the furnace where the metal is placed and then melted. The crucible then collects the melted alloy which will then be poured into the model. Since the crucible will be holding metals melted at extremely high temperatures the crucible will need to be created from very strong material. The durability of the crucible will add a certain aspect of safety to the metal casting process. Using a crucible that is low in quality can result in shattering, which, let’s face it, is never ever a good thing.

Any crucible at any given moment can shatter or fail which is why using appropriate safety gear at all times is so important. In order to handle the crucible which will be red hot you will need to wear boots, jeans, and gloves. The tools for lifting the crucible from the furnace and then the tool for tilting the crucible so that the molten metal will pour easily into the mold will vary crucible from crucible. Those that make their own crucible will be able to create them in an identical manner so the same tools can be used. The idea of these tools is to make sure that the crucible can be safely and securely lifted and poured. You will never want to directly touch a hot crucible, even with gloves.

For those that either can not or will not make a home made crucible can buy a crucible and tools from any of the online stores. A common material for crucibles is graphite as it can withstand the molten metal. Many who cast metal will prefer using graphite crucibles as it can prevent impurities from being introduced into the gold or other precious metal being used. Another option is the Silicon Carbide crucible.

Silicon Carbide is a great though expensive alternative to the graphite crucible. A crucible made from Silicon Carbide can handle rougher treatment then graphite so if you are not particularly gentle with your toys then this is a terrific option.

Yet another option available to the home foundry is creating your very own crucible. Many don’t really recommend this since commercially created crucible tend to be more durable and will instill a bit more confidence in the casters. It is, however, possible to create a crucible as many of us will at one time or another.

If you plan on creating your own crucible then keep this in mind. There are a few areas of home metal casting where you should not cut corners, these definitely include crucibles. The crucibles job is the transportation of incredibly hot molten metal which can easily exceed 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and is really the only thing between you and this metal. When you plan on melting metals with extremely high melting points you will need crucibles made from material that will cost a little extra. Spend that money and do so gladly since it is just a small price to pay for your safety.

Crucibles should only be used to melt one kind of metal. If you have always melted aluminum but decide to try melting brass then you will need a new crucible. This is done for safety reasons. Remember, a crucible is not meant to last forever. Always check your crucible before use to make sure there are not cracks or imperfections if there are then do not use that crucible.

Crucibles come in a variety of sizes and can be made from a variety of materials. It all depends on the type of metal to be used and the size of the job. Never skimp on the price of this tool and always follow safety guidelines and use common sense when dealing with a hot crucible.

Go to Metal Casting Zone to get your free ebook on Metal Casting at Casting. Metal Casting Zone also has Crucible Forum, Crucible Tongs Blog and a Metal Casting Blog with daily news on Metal Casting. You can Find Metal Casting Zone at www.metalcastingzone.com.

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Learn About Cupola Furnaces, Cupola, And Cupola Foundry Information

June 14th, 2008 KentKlein Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

Cupola furnaces are the easiest and most economical furnace to work with for the small foundry owner. Hobby metal casters are always on a look out for a cheaper alternative which will provide safety and yield quality results and the cupola furnace delivers all this.

The common appearance of a cupola furnace is that of a smokestack. The furnace can be of nearly any size which is perfect for backyard metal casters. Commonly, the cupola furnace is supported on four legs with a drop bottom to remove any waste from the furnace. This type of furnace does not use a crucible so the metal caster will place the metal to be melted inside of the furnace. The furnace is fitted with a sprout and runner to pour the molten material which is called a taphole. Sometimes cupolas are fitted with a way for slag to be removed. The slag tapholes are located near the back of the cupola a little higher then the other taphole. The refractory used in cupolas are usually brick with the bottom being clay and sand as this is just temporary anyways.

Cupola casting usually involves working with iron and bronze, though other alloys like aluminum can be melted as well.

The common fuel source for cupolas is coke with limestone acting as a flux. Air can be pumped in to increase the burning of the coke. When the coke is hot enough the alloy is introduced in the top of the cupola. Some will place the alloy then fresh coke and then more alloy. The molten alloy will drip through the coke to collect in the well near the taphole. When the level of the molten alloy is high enough, the taphole is opened and then alloy runs into a ladle. When enough has poured the taphole is closed with the use of a refractory plug. Remember, cupola casting does not involve a crucible.

Crucibles are traditionally used to melt the alloy and the collect it in the molten state. With the use of tongs the crucible is carried to the mold and poured. The ladle takes the place of the crucible in this regard. The metal caster pours the molten alloy which is in the ladle into the mold. The most common metal casting process is Sand casting which lends itself well with cupola furnaces.

Cupola furnaces can either be purchased or constructed. Many hobby metal casters prefer to construct their own cupolas finding it difficult to find a furnace to fit their size requirements or their budget. Cupolas have been made from coffee cans large pipes and really just matters on what materials the caster is able to procure. By making your own furnace you will be able to customize it. Many will need a furnace to be small and portable. No one wants to leave a furnace out in the rain, after all. The chances are pretty good that if you are into metal casting then you have some of the technical knowledge needed to make your own cupola furnace. If not, then it is worth a shot just be extremely careful. You may want to find someone in your community that can aid you in your endeavor.

Go to Metal Casting Zone to get your free ebook on Metal Casting at Casting. Metal Casting Zone also has Cupola Forum, Cupola Furnace Blog and a Metal Casting Blog with daily news on Metal Casting. You can Find Metal Casting Zone at www.metalcastingzone.com.

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Femtocells Technology – What is It?

June 14th, 2008 K.Lynn Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

So you may be asking yourself: What is new in the wireless industry? You know that the cell phone handsets are constantly being improved but what about the connection technology? Well wonder no more.

A word picking up popularity lately in the wireless industry is Femtocells; the word is being thrown around with alarming frequency, causing excitement in various parts of the wireless industry. Being thought of as the next big technological leap in wireless technology, many companies are ready to invest in further research into Femtocells.

Let’s explore what exactly Femtocells are!

Femtocells are mini cellular access points that can provide increased cellular service inside buildings like homes, offices, hospitals, and other areas that may have limited cellular activity. Often buildings, such as federal or research facilities, will restrict the level of cellular penetration.

A low-powered access point, Femtocells connect directly to the mobile operator’s network by using an existing DSL or high speed internet access connection.

Using Femtocells will allow users inside buildings access to cellular service networks when previously access to the cellular network would have been spotty at best. Thinking about the need to stay competitive when more and more companies are offering low-cost VoIP services, mobile operators can use this technology to further extend their services into homes, offices and various other buildings. Many cell phone users would prefer to just have the one phone in their home, but the inability to get reliable in-home service can make it difficult for them to depend solely on their cell phone.

Essentially a personal cellular tower, Femtocells can be highly attractive to both cellular carriers and to cellular users.

Downsides

As with any new technology there are a few downsides to the full implementation of Femtocells. The biggest downside, offhand, is going to be the cost involved in installation. While still in trials, Femtocells are starting to look like they are going to cost around $200 per unit. A price tag of $200 might be a bit too steep for the average household consumer; however, small businesses might see it still as being a worthwhile investment to help reduce their telecommunications costs. Improved indoor cellular service could help businesses reduce their reliance on “landlines.”

Another major downside to the Femtocells is that they do work just like any other wireless device which, in close quarters to other wireless devices, can reduce their ability to function at peak performance levels. Perfect for rural areas that have limited or reduced cellular signals; Femtocells might not be as effective in buildings like apartment complexes, or other high rise buildings where several might be in use. More users in close proximity will mean more of a drain on the shared bandwidth.

Much more research needs to be completed on this technology with great potential; already mobile carrier giants Sprint and AT&T have expressed interest or have already invested in the developing technology. As the technology expands and is refined there is no doubt that more communications companies will express interest in the coming months.

Find a fantastic selection of cheap cell phone accessories and the perfect one you are looking for at http://www.wonderfulcell.com

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Everything You Need to Know About Fiber Optic Testing – Fiber Optic Technology Tutorial Series

June 14th, 2008 ColinYao Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

Overview of Fiber Optic Testing

There are mandatory tests for every stage of the design, manufacture, and installation of the fiber optic components, link, cable plant, and network.

Most fiber optic test procedures have been thoroughly tested and codified as industry standards. These standards are part of EIA/TIA RS455 and are being adapted into IEC standards.

Most of these standards refer to tests of individual components under a variety of environmental conditions; therefore, only a few related to testing the performance of the installed cable plant.

With data communication networks, we are primarily concerned with three fiber optic test procedures: FOTP-95 for measurements of optical power, FOTP-171 for testing patch cables and OFSTP-14 for testing the loss of the installed cable plant.

Optical Fiber Testing

A great many tests must be performed on optical fibers. A fiber manufacturer must test a fiber to determine the characteristics by which the fiber will be specified. As a quality control measure during manufacture of fibers, the manufacturer must constantly test the fibers to ensure that they meet the specifications. Among the tests are the following: core diameter, cladding diameter, numerical aperture (NA), attenuation, refractive index profile and tensile strength.

Other tests performed on fibers or on fiber optic cables concern their mechanical and environment characteristics. Mechanical tests such as impact resistance, tensile loading, and crush resistance test the cable’s ability to withstand physical and mechanical stresses. Environmental tests evaluate the changes in attenuation under extremes of temperature, repeated changes of temperature, and humidity.

Fiber Optic Cable Plant Testing

There are some testing concerns in a premises-cabling application based on the recommendations found in TIA/EIA-568A for generic cabling systems and TSB-67 on testing.

An important concept in testing is distinguishing between the link and the channel. The channel is the end-to-end system, including any patch cables at the equipment or work area. The link is the “behind-the-walls” cabling from the equipment-side patch panel to the work-area-side outlet.

Testing can be done on either a link level or a channel level. Installers of a building cabling system are usually concerned with the link. The link forms the basic infrastructure for the building cabling.

Fiber Optic Component Testing

Fiber optic data links are composed of three components: a transmitter, a receiver and the interconnection cable plant. These components must be compatible with the parameters of the intended application.

The loss budget must be adequate for the expected loss in the cable plant and the dynamic characteristics must meet the bandwidth requirements set by the network data transmission rate.

The loss budget is set by the output power of the transmitter and the sensitivity of the receiver. On a static basis, this is determined by the difference in optical power levels, but in reality the issue is a dynamic one, determined by the performance of the components at the data transmission rate of interest.

Continuity Testing

Simple continuity testing can be achieved by a flashlight: Does the light come through the fiber? Fancy flashlights – called visual continuity testers – are available specifically for fiber optic testing. A read light is easiest to see.

Colin Yao is an expert on fiber optic communication technologies and products. Learn more about innerduct, inner duct, plenum innerduct on Fiber Optics For Sale Co. web site.

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An Introduction to ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) Networks

June 14th, 2008 ColinYao Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

The standards for ATM were first developed in the mid 1980s. The goal was to design a single networking strategy that could transport real-time video and audio as well as image files, text and email.

ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) has been proposed as an enabling network technology to support broadband integrated services. It was designed to provide a single platform for the transmission of voice, video and data at specified quality of service and at speeds varing from fractional T1 to Gbps.

Currently voice, data and video are transported by different networks. Voice is tranported by the public telephone network, and data by a variety of packet-switched networks. Video is transported by networks based on coaxial cables, satellites and radio waves. ATM is designed to integrate all these services together.

However, ATM itself is not a complete, stand-alone networking standard; rather, ATM defines a common layer of interoperability called the ATM layer, on which various services ranging from telephony and video conferencing to TCP/IP data networking and multimedia can be delivered.

The ATM layer defines a common format used for switching and multiplexing bit streams from one end of an ATM network to another. The ATM layer then uses the hardware facilities of lower layers to deliver the bits across individual links in a network.

A variety of such physical layers have been defined, most of which are based on existing standards in order to maximally leverage existing technologies and installed bases.

Technically, ATM is a cell relay, packet switching network and data link layer protocol which encodes data traffic into small fixed-sized cells (53 bytes; 48 bytes of data and 5 bytes of header information).

ATM provides data link layer services that run over Layer 1 links. This differs from other technologies based on packet-switched networks(such as IP or Ethernet), in which variable sized packets (known as frames when referencing Layer 2) are used.

ATM is a connection-oriented technology, in which a logical connection is established between the two endpoints before the actual data exchange begins.

ATM has proven very successful in the WAN scenario and numerous telecommunication providers have implemented ATM in their wide-area network cores. Many ADSL implementations also use ATM. However, ATM has failed to gain wide use an a LAN technology, and its complexity has held back its full deployment as the single integrating network technology in the way that its inventors original intended.

Why? The reason is that there will always be both brand-new and obsolescent link-layer technologies, particularly in the LAN area, not all of them fit neatly into the synchronous optical networking model for which ATM was designed.

Therefore, a protocol is needed to provide a unifying layer over both ATM and non-ATM link layers, as ATM itself cannot fit that role. IP already does that; therefore, there is often no point in implementing ATM at the network layer.

In the early 1990s, ATM was once posed to replace Ethernet and IP networks. But Ethernet made a dramatic come-back when it was defined to run at 100Mbps and later on at 1Gbps. As a result, ATM lost the battle to the “desktop”.

Colin Yao is an expert on fiber optic communication technologies and products. Learn more about innerduct conduit, hdpe innerduct, corrugated innerduct on Fiber Optics For Sale Co. web site

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Introduction to SONET (Synchronous Optical Networking) – Fiber Optic Technologies Tutorial Series

June 14th, 2008 ColinYao Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

The SONET standards were developed in the mid-1980s to take advantage of low-cost transmission over optical fibers. It defines a hierarchy of data rates, formats for framing and multiplexing the payload data, as well as optical signal specifications(wavelength and dispersion), allowing multi-vendor interoperability.

SONET is sometimes described as “T-1 on steroids”. Why is that? As we know, the digital hierarchy (DS-0, DS-1, DS-2, DS-3 and more) was created to provide cost-effective multiplexed transport for voice and data traffic from one location in a network to another.

SONET (Synchronous Optical Networking, used in the United States) and SDH (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy, used in Europe and other parts of the world) are two equivalent multiplexing protocols for transferring multiple digital bit streams using lasers or LEDs (light-emitting diodes) over the same optical fiber.

SONET and SDH were designed to replace PDH (Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy) system to eliminate the synchronization problems that PDH had. SONET is synchronous, which means that each connection achieves a constant bit rate and delay. For example, SDH or SONET may be utilized to allow several Internet Service Providers to share the same optical fiber, without being affected by each others traffic load, and without being able to temporarily borrow free capacity from each other.

SONET and SDH are considered to be physical layer protocols since they offer permanent connections and do not involve packet mode communication. Only certain integer multiples of 64kbits/s are possible bit rates.

SONET is actually TDM(time division multiplexing) based and this makes it readily supports fixed-rate services such as telephony. Its synchronous nature is designed to accept traffic at fixed multiples of a basic rate (64kbit/s), without requiring variable stuff bits or complex rate adaptation.

The SONET data transmission format is based on a 125us frame consisting of 810 octets, of which 36 are overhead and 774 are payload data. The basic SONET signal, whose electrical and optical versions are referred to as STS-1 and OC-1, respectively, is thus a 51.84Mb/s data stream that readily accommodates TDM channels in multiples of 8 kb/s.

SONET can be used to encapsulate PDH and other earlier digital transmission standards. It can also be used directly to support either ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) or Packet over SONET/SDH (POS) networking. So SONET/SDH is actually a generic all-purpose transport container for moving both voice and data traffic. They in themselves are not communications protocols.

SONET brings with it a subset of advantages that makes it stand above competitive technologies. These include mid-span meet, improved operations, administration, maintenance, and provisioning (OAM&P), support for multipoint circuit configurations, non-intrusive facility monitoring, and the ability to deploy a variety of new services.

Improved OAM&P is one of the greatest contributions that SONET brings to the networking field. Element and network monitoring, management, and maintenance have always been something of a catch-as-catch-can effort because of the complexity and diversity of elements in a typical service provider’s network. SONET overhead includes error-checking ability, bytes for network survivability, and a diverse set of clearly defined management messages.

Colin Yao is an expert on fiber optic communication technologies and products. Learn more about fiber optic innerduct, innerduct price, 1 innerduct on Fiber Optics For Sale Co. web site.

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Cell Phones - No Longer Just For Calling

June 14th, 2008 K.Lynn Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

It seems that, with the hectic lifestyles we all lead today, more effort is being made to compress as many functions as possible into ever aspect of our lives; our cell phones are no exception to this trend.

Consider, now, all of the functions that have been built into our cell phones in an effort to simplify our lives and give us more freedom while on the move.

Email

Thanks to the numerous smartphones on the market today, we are no longer tethered to our computers when we have a need to send and receive emails. This can work as both an advantage and disadvantage, depending on your point of view. The ability to still have access to your email while you are away from your desk or traveling can be a vital part of your business. While it can be a great tool to managing your customers and your business, access to your email at all times can also be a bit invasive. The urge to constantly check your email, even while spending valuable time with your family, can be very strong. You will need to find a good balance to make sure that you do use the ability to check your email as a positive thing that does not encroach on your personal life.

Internet

We now have, built into many smartphones, the ability to hop onto the internet using our cell phones no matter where we are. Access to the internet while on the road can allow you to keep up with the news, stock markets, or even help you look up a contact you don’t have stored.

GPS

Most mobile phones are now built with a GPS built into them; not only giving you the ability to get turn by turn directions but also helping you figure out where you are if you happen to get lost while traveling.

Cameras

Pretty standard now in most cell phones, a camera built into your phone can free you from the need to carry around both a cell phone and a digital camera. Technologies have greatly improved to the point now so that many of the cameras built into mobile phones are as good as, or even better than, many low to mid-end digital cameras.

Pedometers

Several mobile phone makers have taken cues from health-minded consumers and built into their handsets the technology needed to measure steps. Nokia and Sony Ericsson have both built pedometer features into their cell phones, giving consumers the ability to not only count and track their steps, but some even offer the ability to track the speed and distance covered during a workout.

Games

Mobile phones now often come loaded with several games that you can either play as a single player or play online against other mobile phone users. Additional games may also be available for download from your carrier.

MP3 Player

Recognizing the need that cell phone owners have for an MP3 player while on the move, cell phone makers have built MP3 players into many of their handsets. The playback quality is often just as good as that available on stand-alone MP3 players.

As technologies improve, mobile phone manufacturers are going to continue to push the envelope with regards to the functions they integrate into cell phones; with the ultimate goal of easing our chaotic lives just a little.

Find a fantastic selection of cheap cell phone accessories and the perfect one you are looking for at http://www.wonderfulcell.com

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The Future of Fiber Optic Communication

June 14th, 2008 ColinYao Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

There is no question that fiber optic communication is our future. Fiber optic communication industry has been enjoying amazing growth for over 15 years. These are driven by both technology advance and market demand. There are some obvious trends in the development of new technology and market. Let’s examine some of the most important ones here.

All-Optical Network

All-optical network has been a top topic in fiber optic communication industry for over a decade now. Its ultimate goal is to process all signals in the optical domain without any conversion and controlling to electrical domain at all.

At least for now, most signal routing, processing and switching happens in the electrical domain. Optical signals have to be converted to electrical signal first, and then the electrical signals are processed, routed and switched to their final destination.

After the processing, routing and switching, the electrical signals are then converted back to optical signals which are then transmitted over long distances. This process is called the O-E-O process.

But this O-E-O process severely limits the speed of the network. Why? Since optical signals can process data much faster then today’s electronics. The O-E-O process has been a bottleneck preventing us from achieving even higher data rates.

This bottleneck creates a tremendous interest in all-optical networks where no electronics are needed for signal processing, routing and switching. Another big benefit of all-optical network is that since all signal processing, routing and switching happens in optical domain, there is no need to replace the electronics when data rates increase. For example, current fiber optic transmitters and receivers can handle only one single data rate, thus, they must be replaced when the data rate increases. This won’t be necessary in a all-optical network.

However, many obstacles still lie in our way to make all-optical network a reality. Some functions such as reading headers on the optical signals, switching the optical signal on the fly based on the header content and real-time wavelength switching are just a few of the serious challenges that need to be solved before we can have a true all-optical network.

Multi-Terabit Networks

DWDM opens the door to multi-terabit transmission. The interest in developing multi-terabit networks is driven by the increasing availability of more bandwidth in fiber optic networks.

One terabit network was achieved by using 10Gb/s data rate combined with 100 DWDM channels.

Four terabit network can be achieved by combing 40Gb/s data rate with 100 DWDM channels too. Researchers move their target to even higher bandwidth with 100Gb/s systems. (Which is not a reality yet, at least for now)

But this kind of speed is very expensive to make and can only be justified on long-haul systems. But with the cost reduction on fiber optic components, devices and systems, more bandwidth is not far from us.

There are some other major trends in the fiber optic industry too. The most important ones include expansion into mass markets (FTTH, FTTB, FTTC, etc), miniaturization, new technology development, cost reductions and even more.

Colin Yao is an expert on fiber optic communication technologies and products. Learn more about bare optical fiber, bare fiber optic cable, bare fiber optic on Fiber Optics For Sale Co. web site.

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Change the Look of Your Cell Phone, Fast!

June 14th, 2008 K.Lynn Posted in Computers and Technology | No Comments »

Every few months it seems that the cell phone service providers are trying to get you to change phones and extend the amount of time that you are locked in to their service contract. They try to entice you with sleek looking cell phones designed to catch your eye and try to make your old phone look boring. However, you can join the smart people and spice up the looks of your existing cell phone with some very creative cell phone accessories without the additional, recurring expense of upgrading your service contract.

Interchangeable Faceplates

Several new phones, like the Samsung T639, are now shipping with interchangeable faceplates inside the box at no extra charge. Interchangeable faceplates give users the ability to change the look of their mobile phone with a few simple snaps. Most cell phone makers, and the carriers they sell their phones to, will offer faceplates for their most popular models. However, the faceplates offered by the makers and carriers are often limited in color, style, and can also be on the rather pricey side. Luckily, third party makers of cell phone accessories have seen the opportunity in the market for a wider range of colors, styles, and of course lower prices. You can choose from a large selection of interchangeable faceplates for most popular cell phone models on the market, without the need to go directly to your carrier or mobile manufacturer. Available from numerous online vendors, mall vendors, and often even your local convenience store, interchangeable faceplates are now a fun and fast way to give your cell phone a whole new look.

Skins

A “Cell Phone Skin” is a customizable, removable, and replaceable vinyl decoration that is adhered onto your mobile phone. Several companies now devote themselves only to the creation of Skins for laptops, cell phones, digital cameras, and even your mp3 players. You will have the ability to pick, from a list of devices, your exact cell phone model and then select the Skin that appeals to you. The Skins are custom designed and cut to fit each device perfectly. Some Skins are in several pieces, depending on the design of the mobile phone they are customized for, and are very easy to apply to your phone. Simply clean the phone thoroughly, either with an alcohol wipe or a damp cloth, and apply the Skin. You can, also, remove the Skin easily. However, the adhesive might not work as well the second time around. Ranging from $6 up to $30 for a customized and personalized design, a Skin for your cell phone is a great affordable way to give a completely unique look to your mobile phone.

A Bit Of Sparkle

A rather popular option amongst younger cell phone users is to stick small crystals on to their phones. These sparkling adhesive accessories are available either as individual crystals to apply one at a time, or they are available in intricate designs. Most mobile phone carriers stock the sticker sheets in their retail stores; however, a larger and often cheaper selection is available via most third party mobile phone accessory sellers.

From a funky animal print, a picture of your niece, or to a design with your favorite Star Wars character you will find that your options are practically limitless when it comes to changing the look of your cell phone fast.

Find a fantastic selection of cheap cell phone accessories and the perfect one you are looking for at http://www.wonderfulcell.com

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