When it comes to the modern day computing, the visual experience is everything provided by your computer monitor. So it really does beg the question, What makes an excellent monitor ?
This article is a guide of sorts to elaborate about the various different aspects that make a good monitor.
A computer monitor has a display, ports for connectivity and a power supply.
Each part of the monitor serves an important purpose, let's take a look at them closely and see what matters.
The monitor's display is the main element of the monitor (quite obviously), As it's pretty much what you are looking at when you want to work with a computer. A good monitor needs to have good display characteristic.
Some of these characteristics in general are things like the display brightness, color -representation qualities, refresh rate, etc.
Here is a look into some of the more technical aspects of the monitor.
Brightness, quantified in nits, plays a pivotal role in determining the vibrancy of displayed content. This attribute becomes especially significant in well-lit environments and when dealing with HDR (High Dynamic Range) content, as it contributes to a visually impactful experience.
For optimal visual clarity, a good monitor should have the capacity to emit approximately 250 – 450 nits of brightness, striking the right balance for various scenarios.
The accuracy of colors holds paramount importance, particularly in tasks involving precise content creation. The color gamut, elaborated through metrics like sRGB, Adobe RGB, or DCI-P3 coverage, signifies the expansive spectrum of colors a display can realistically reproduce.
For the average user seeking a commendable display, a panel featuring good sRGB coverage, ranging from above 60% to 100%, should suffice and align with budget constraints. However, those delving into professional studio work might seek the exemplary color fidelity of the DCI-P3 standard, often considered the gold standard for color reproduction.
In the realm of computer monitors, resolution and pixel density are pivotal factors shaping visual quality.
They come across in various ranges such as 1080p, 1440p, and 4K etc.
FHD/1080p (Full High Definition) strikes a balance between image quality and performance, with widespread compatibility and smoother gaming.
QHD/1440p (Quad HD or 2K) steps up clarity for detailed tasks, enhancing productivity while offering an approachable upgrade.
UHD/4K (Ultra HD) sets a new standard in clarity, ideal for design and content creation, though demanding more from hardware.
This comes at a cost, as display resolution compatibility also matters; higher resolutions may require scaling adjustments for optimal usage and may require a faster computer.
The aspect ratio of a display is also a key worthy feature of a monitor.
The aspect ratio is essentially the ratio between the number of pixels on the horizontal and vertical of the monitor. This gives importance to productivity and how you can space your windows and tabs of content on-screen.
16:9 is a typical monitor ratio, whereas 4:3 would be considered a tall monitor. There also exists ultra-wide monitors with aspect ratios like 21:9.
Pixel density impacts text clarity and visual edges, enhancing productivity and gaming, but necessitates proper scaling settings. The pixel density is a ratio between the monitor's size in inches and the resolution.
The higher the pixel density, the crisper and cleaner things like images and text look on a display.
The refresh rate, measured in Hz (Hertz), dictates the seamless transition of images by quantifying how frequently the screen updates within a single second. The standard refresh rate of around 60 Hz is commonplace, yet there are monitors with capabilities of 90, 120, 144, or even 240 Hz. Higher refresh rates contribute substantively to rendering smoother motion on the screen, effectively conferring a fluid appearance to visual content.
Simultaneously, response times wield their influence on how promptly pixels transition between colors, playing a pivotal role in mitigating ghosting effects – the lingering blurring that occurs during rapid image changes. The response times in milliseconds are intrinsically linked to the monitor's refresh rate, making it an attribute that changes accordingly.
Ghosting materializes when pixels lag behind during swift changes, leading to perceptible blurring. Reduced response times are instrumental in addressing this concern, enhancing the overall clarity of dynamic visuals and ensuring crisp portrayal.
A robust display, worthy of acclaim, ought to seamlessly surmount such issues, elevating the immersive experience for the user.
HDR technology represents a noteworthy advancement by augmenting the contrast and brightness levels of displayed content, culminating in a better visual engagement.
Foremost formats such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision spearhead this evolution, providing expanded color palettes and luminance ranges that translate into captivating visuals.
While the inclusion of HDR support is anticipated in a high-quality monitor, it's worth noting that this enhancement can lead to a higher budgetary consideration due to the premium experience it affords.
The contrast ratio, a fundamental determinant, gauges the monitor's capacity to distinctly differentiate between white and other colors against a black backdrop. This metric evaluates the visual dynamics, as a higher contrast ratio invariably contributes to the enhanced vibrancy and realism of on-screen colors.
The concept of viewing angles is in relation to the range within which a display maintains its color accuracy and brightness consistency.
In simple terms, when you're looking at a screen, distortions in colors and brightness should ideally not crop up whether you're sitting directly in front of the display or even when you're peering at it from slightly off-center angles, like when you tilt your head.
This convenient feature essentially removes the need to constantly align your line of sight perfectly with the monitor's center to enjoy a sharp and clear view of everything displayed on it.
Two giants stand at the forefront: LCDs and OLEDs. Each has its unique strengths and characteristics that define the visual experience they offer. Additionally, emerging technologies like microLED and QLED are pushing the boundaries further.
LCDs have long been the workhorse of the monitor world. These displays rely on liquid crystal molecules that twist and untwist to regulate light passing through them. The three primary types of LCD panels are TN (Twisted Nematic), VA (Vertical Alignment), and IPS (In-Plane Switching).
The most commonly preferred type of LCD panel is IPS due to its highly favored characteristics, as it appears to balance all the various aspects of a good display.
OLED technology is quite unique. Each pixel makes its very own light, which gives you incredibly deep black colors and really bright colors too. These displays are super thin and flexible because they don't need a big light behind them.
OLED displays excel in every field of the display criteria, Ultra bright, Extremely color accurate, Super fast refresh and sub millisecond response rates with infinite contrast.
But unfortunately, OLED displays can become the victim of burn-ins where certain parts of the display can become dim over time, which can ruin the display in local areas or the entire OLED in general.
Mini-LED displays are a bit of an innovation to LCDs, imagine an LCD with a contrast ratio similar to ones like OLED displays.
These displays use LCDs with a distributed backlight that uses small LEDs to achieve localized dimming, hence providing much more contrast to the picture, thus greatly improving quality.
Let's delve a bit into the various connectivity options monitors offer, ranging from the classic technologies to the latest cutting-edge:
VGA is among the oldest methods of monitor connections, dating back to the early days of computing. It uses a 15-pin connector and is known for its analog signal transmission. While it can still be found on some older devices, VGA's limitations in terms of image quality and resolution have led to its gradual decline in favor of newer options.
HDMI has become the de facto standard for connecting monitors to various devices. It supports both audio and video transmission in a single cable. HDMI offers robust support for high-definition resolutions, making it perfect for TVs, gaming consoles, and modern computers.
It's widely compatible and comes in different versions to accommodate evolving technological standards. Make sure your computer is capable of providing an HDMI version equal to or greater than the monitor to make the most use of its capabilities.
DisplayPort is another powerful contender, often seen on high-performance monitors and computers. It boasts high data transfer rates and supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI.
DisplayPort is also more adaptable for multi-monitor setups and offers daisy-chaining capabilities. It has gained popularity among professionals and enthusiasts who require superior performance.
USB-C, known for its versatility, has taken the connectivity world by storm. It's not just for data and charging; it can also carry display signals. With a compatible port, you can use USB-C to connect your monitor, transmit data, and charge your device all at once.
Thunderbolt, often found in Apple devices, takes USB-C a step further by offering even faster data transfer and more display bandwidth.
DisplayPort over USB-C is the fusion of two great technologies. It's like getting the best of both worlds – the high-performance capabilities of DisplayPort and the convenience and versatility of USB-C.
This technology is particularly handy for laptops and devices with limited connectivity options, offering a single cable solution for power, data, and display.
Probably not talked about much, but still sure is important to consider is efficiency ratings.
Opting for monitors with Energy Star ratings translates to minimized energy consumption and reduced electricity bills. So it is worth checking out the monitor's power rating if you plan to use it in power constrained systems.
There are a lot of various monitors that cater to user specific needs. For example high refresh monitors for gamers, high color precision for designers and engineers, Different aspect ratio monitors for programmers etc.
Software is also very catered to the kind of monitor you view your content on, if you plan on using your monitor for entertainment, you might want to look into a 16:9 aspect ratio monitor.
This is because movies and other content are curated to be viewable in that standard aspect ratio, Also making sure that its HDR capable for the rich colors.
If you need to conduct business activities, consider a monitor that's taller like a 4:3 aspect ratio. This will help you fit more content in a tall space all in one view.
If you want to have multiple moniors along a line, why not consider a ultrawide monitor ?
You'll be able to fit all your content together in a wide immersive view.
Make sure you are looking to make the most out of the setup of your monitors with mounting accessories.
Usually monitors come with a very simple mount but are compatible with VESA mounting options.
So it might be a good investment in purchasing a desktop clamp type or swivel mount monitor stand, depending on the number of monitors you might purchase.
If you are looking to purchase a monitor, It's worth noting all the various points and aspects before consideration of what kind of monitor you want to buy. The more the extravagant features, the more it will cost for a good monitor implementing those features.
Avoid buying cheaper monitors as they do tend to become faulty after a while and have random lines and artifacts in their screens after a period of usage wear.
IPS monitors with a decent resolution for your needs is probably the way to go if you are looking for a good ratio of budget and features, but if you are willing to splurge on a monitor, getting an OLED monitor isn't a bad idea.
The title is pretty much self-explanatory. Using car batteries with the necessary additional equipment to make a functional and affordable, uninterrupted power supply.
Let's see what is there to offer by doing this DIY vs what the ready-made options have to offer.
The market offerings vary over a range of products from both cheap to expensive. But taking a look at some of the more professional options:
Schneider APC Inverters are advanced and dependable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems made by Schneider Electric.
These inverters use high-quality components and advanced technology to ensure they perform well and protect devices during power outages. They come in different models for various power needs, from homes to large businesses. They also have smart management software for easy monitoring and control of the UPS status and power settings.
Its quite easily a reputable option for our operation.
Eaton Tripp-lite inverters, just like Schneider APC Inverters, are exceptional backup power systems that ensure uninterrupted power supply (UPS) for your valuable devices. While both brands offer reliable performance, they come with subtle differences to meet varying needs.
Similar to Schneider APC Inverters, Eaton Tripp-lite devices are built with advanced technology and high-quality materials, guaranteeing smooth operations during power outages.
Thanks to their reliability and versatility, they are a popular choice for anyone seeking dependable power backup solutions.
What sets CyberPower UPSs apart is their smart features and advanced technology. They come with intelligent LCD displays, providing real-time information on power status, battery levels, and runtime. Users can easily customize settings to optimize UPS performance.
Moreover, CyberPower UPSs are energy-efficient and some models even work with smart home systems, allowing remote monitoring and control for added convenience.
Overall, these options, though being extremely feature rich, can cost a hefty amount. Not to be taken wrong, yes it does cost a fair bit to have a professional UPS setup that complies with safety regulations etc.
But it is possible to make a suitable setup that cuts the unnecessary corners to make an equally capable UPS system by ourselves.
Since we have our baseline established, let's understand what our overall goal is:
Choosing the right UPS capacity for your needs is a crucial step in building a reliable power backup system. Here's a concise guide to help you calculate the appropriate UPS capacity:
To determine the right battery capacity for your UPS system, consider the desired runtime and battery voltage, using a simple water pipe analogy for clarity.
Think of electricity as water in a pipe, where Volts represent pipe size, and Amps signify water pressure. A smaller pipe (low Volts) needs higher pressure (high Amps) to move water, while a larger pipe (higher Volts) requires lower pressure (lower Amps) for the same flow rate.
Similarly, in your UPS system, battery voltage is like pipe size, and Amps represent electricity pressure. Batteries typically have lower voltage than 120v AC from the wall. Adjust Amps for the battery's voltage using the calculator.
For example, a 20VA load at 120v needs around 0.15 Amps. With a 12v battery, Amps increase to about 1.5 amps (considering a power factor of 0.6).
The goal is to find the right voltage-amps balance to choose the appropriate battery capacity (Ah) for your UPS. By using this ratio and the battery calculator, select a reliable and efficient power backup solution meeting your specific needs.
In essence, determine the Amps your system consumes at 120v and use it to find a suitable battery with ample voltage.
Battery voltages are in the multiples of 12v, such as 12v, 24v, 48v etc. This is mostly in part due to the way these batteries are made.
Increasing the voltage in the inverter leads to more losses, resulting in wasted energy. Inverters commonly experience around 20% losses. The inverter's main task is to convert the battery's direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) at 120v, enabling our computers to use it.
Interestingly, computers themselves operate on DC at voltages similar to batteries. Therefore, we essentially convert low voltage DC into AC and then back into low voltage DC using the computer's power supply. This process causes efficiency losses at each step. To simplify this process, a DC buck converter can be used to make it a one-step process, but it involves different voltage levels, which is beyond our current topic.
While running the system with 48v batteries is possible, it is more suitable for much larger systems. For our context, we will work with a 24-volt system.
In the world of Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), the "duty cycle" becomes a crucial factor to consider. The duty cycle simply indicates how long a UPS can operate continuously without problems. UPS devices have different duty cycles, which help us distinguish between regular units and heavy-duty ones.
Regular UPS units, like the ones used in homes or small offices, are designed for intermittent power backup needs. They work well for short outages and small loads. In contrast, manufacturers design heavy-duty UPS systems for industrial or critical applications, allowing them to provide continuous power for extended periods without encountering any issues.
Understanding the duty cycle is vital for choosing the right UPS to meet specific needs. It ensures correct usage, prolongs the UPS's lifespan, and prevents potential problems that may arise from exceeding its capacity.
For this application, carefully look for UPSs categorized as "Extended Runtime," as they will be the most suitable choice.
A UPS and an Inverter are not the same thing.
A UPS is specifically designed to manage the low current DC power adapters needed for running multiple devices together. On the contrary, other devices meant for single use often fail when handling loads below half their capacity, as I've observed when powering numerous small computers simultaneously.
With most of the key points out of the way, let's talk about the more supporting components in general.
Currently, the types of batteries commonly available are:
Lead acid: The cheapest option. Same as the lead acid car batteries. However, for a UPS, we absolutely need Deep Cycle cells. This will allow them to drain to almost 0 and then be recharged. If you try this with normal lead acid batteries, they will literally fail after 3 or 4 runs to 0, which is unacceptable for a reliable UPS system.
Sealed lead acid (SLA): SLA batteries are what comes with UPS systems. They are the same as normal lead acid, but they are sealed and always deep cycle. The sealed part is important because when you charge a lead acid battery, some hydrogen gas is released, which can be explosive. Sealed Lead Acid batteries don't release any hydrogen, making them safer for closed spaces.
Lithium-ion: Lithium-ion batteries are the cornerstone of 21st century innovations. They are deep cycle, high capacity, lightweight, and can do many more cycles before degradation than lead acid. If you have the money, there is really no contest, Lithium-ion is the superior technology, providing efficient and long-lasting power backup.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4): The cream of the crop of batteries is LiFePO4. They have all the benefits of Lithium-ion but offer even more cycles before degradation and are even lighter weight. These batteries provide exceptional performance, making them a top choice for high-end UPS systems. However, their premium features come at a significantly higher cost, making them less suitable for budget-conscious UPS solutions.
This part is crucial for the UPS system and should not be overlooked. We need thick wiring between the batteries because they can handle a lot of current. Calling them the lifelines of your system would be a sheer understatement.
The batteries must work together as a single unit. A fuse will be placed in line between the main feed line to the UPS and the batteries. There won't be any fuses between the batteries, so the wire itself acts as a backup fuse, and it must not fail.
While bus bars can be used instead of wires, they are not necessary for computer applications. Simple 2-gauge or larger wires are sufficient to ensure they won't overheat or fail.
Using an inline 150A fuse between the battery and the UPS has always been considered an industry standard, so feel free to add that.
Make sure to adhere to the right circuit to prevent shorting, remember when dealing with batteries we must be safe. Explosions and shocks from these devices can be fatal. Kindly deal with caution.
In conclusion, when making a DIY UPS system with car batteries, remember to consider your power needs and choose the right UPS capacity. Understand the battery requirements, like voltage and amps, to select the suitable battery capacity.
Opt for reliable battery types such as sealed lead-acid or lithium-ion for better performance. Also, ensure proper sizing of the wiring and fuses between the batteries to create a safe and effective UPS setup.
By following these steps, you can build a cost-effective and dependable power backup solution tailored to your requirements.
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Language Model-based Learning (LLMs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have become effective partners for programmers of all skill levels. In the rapidly changing world of programming, These tools have completely transformed how code is written, optimized, and debugged. They build upon earlier innovations like IntelliSense. This article covers the possibilities of LLMs and AI tools like ChatGPT and Github Copilot. And also possibly their effects on coding, and the moral issues with automatic code generation.
Before the advent of AI-driven code writing tools, programmers relied on traditional Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) and code-completion features like Intellisense to aid them in the coding process. These tools significantly improved developers' productivity and code quality, laying the foundation for the advancements that AI would later bring.
However, these tools were limited by their ability to perform only static code analysis. Static code analysis involved scanning the codebase for potential issues, such as syntax errors, unused variables, or possible runtime errors, and providing suggestions for improvement.
While valuable, static analysis lacked the capacity to grasp the subtleties of natural language and complex programming scenarios, as it focused on rule-based patterns rather than understanding the context.
This brings us to the advent of modern AI progressing on the capabilities of previous generation tools.
Large Language Models (LLMs) process and comprehend human language using neural networks. They have mastered the ability to predict the likelihood of a word or series of words given the context after pre-training on massive datasets of text from the internet, books, journals, and code repositories. This enables them to provide replies that are appropriate for the context.
Some of the well known LLMs include the OpenAI GPT models used in applications like ChatGPT.
Other LLM based applications include Google Bard, Github Copilot, etc.
LLMs and AI tools actively enhance the efficiency and productivity of programmers by offering dynamic support throughout the coding process. Leveraging natural language understanding, these tools actively assist with various aspects of coding, making it more intuitive and seamless for developers.
They go beyond regular code completion. These tools actively offer comprehensive help in generating, changing, arranging, identifying errors, and predicting performance in code.
LLMs, unlike Intellisense, can comprehend natural language and generate code based on human-like prompts, pushing us to a new era of AI-driven code writing.
There are a currently lot of tools on the market for programmers to use to aid them in programming.
ChatGPT is a general purpose LLM that uses OpenAI's GPT model for advanced text generation based on simple human-like prompts.
The model can understand and generate human-like text based on the given context. It learns from a wide range of text sources like the internet, books, and articles, which helps it grasp language patterns and relationships.
However, it is very limited in its capabilities in things like code generation as it is much more general purpose.
GitHub Copilot is an AI-powered code completion tool developed by OpenAI and GitHub. It uses the GPT-3.5 language model to assist developers in writing code faster.
As programmers type, Copilot analyzes the context and suggests complete lines or blocks of code, speeding up the development process. The tool has trained on a vast dataset of code repositories, enabling it to offer accurate and relevant code suggestions in different programming languages.
DeepCode is an AI-powered tool designed to assist with coding, actively analyzing code repositories for potential improvements. It works by using machine learning to detect bugs, errors, and security vulnerabilities in code.
The tool's active learning capabilities continuously improve its accuracy by learning from the feedback and code reviews provided by users. DeepCode aims to make coding easier and more secure by leveraging the power of AI to identify and prevent potential issues in the codebase.
AI-generated code may not always be of good quality or dependable. The AI models learn from existing code, but they might still produce code with mistakes or inefficiencies. Depending solely on AI-generated code without checking it carefully could lead to problems in the software.
AI models lack real understanding and learning abilities. They generate code based on patterns they have seen, but they don't truly grasp the problems they are solving. This can make them less effective in handling new or complex coding challenges.
AI models learn from code created by various developers, which means the generated code could resemble existing proprietary code. This raises concerns about copying code and violating intellectual property rights, which can lead to ethical and legal issues.
Essentially, who actually wrote the code, the model or the developer ?
AI models might not be good at all programming languages or specialized tasks. Some languages or specific programming challenges might not have enough data for the AI to work well, resulting in less accurate or relevant code suggestions.
The same capabilities that make AI valuable for legitimate development also present risks in the wrong hands.
Unethical people can use AI-generated code to craft malware, launch cyberattacks, or bypass security measures. It might also be used to automate unethical practices, such as scraping content, spamming, or creating fake accounts. To address these concerns, responsible use, strong ethical guidelines, and security measures are essential.
A first step in the right direction would be to address the challenges of bias in AI models and how it might affect the code generated. Exploring strategies and best practices to mitigate bias and ensure fair and inclusive code suggestions.
Creating domain-specific AI models for code writing in specialized areas and fine-tuning them on the much more specific data sets will have much more knowledge in terminologies and coding patterns, leading to more accurate and contextually relevant code suggestions.
To ensure responsible AI usage, we must establish strict ethical guidelines and governance.
The AI community, security experts, and policymakers can collaborate to develop advanced security measures that prevent AI-generated code from being used for unethical activities.
To resolve legal issues caused by AI-generated code, we must define rights and responsibilities for developers and AI model creators. Adding watermarks or identifiers to AI-generated code can attribute ownership and prevent plagiarism. Regular audits and assessments of AI tools ensure legal compliance and prevent unintended legal problems.
AI-driven code writing is not just transforming the way professional programmers work. It also holds significant advantages for common people with an interest in programming. By making coding more accessible and inclusive, AI tools are simplifying the world of software development.
AI-powered code writing tools act as mentors for individuals new to coding or casual programmers. These tools are trained on vast amounts of prior knowledge, and they provide real-time suggestions and generate functional code based on natural language prompts, thus reducing the learning curve
Combining the creativity and expertise of human developers with the assistance of AI-driven tools can unlock the full potential of code generation, resulting in more efficient and reliable software solutions.
In today's interconnected world, efficient and reliable communication is essential. When it comes to networking, two prominent technologies, Ethernet and fiber optic cables, play a vital role. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses.
Hence, it is important to understand their differences and choose the right solution for specific situations.
Additionally, there are various Ethernet cable standards to consider, each with its own benefits and costs. In this article, we will explore the different types of Ethernet and fiber optic cables, compare them both, and discuss how to determine the most suitable option for different scenarios.
There are several cabling standards that play a crucial role in various applications, but the primary ones that run the show in the background are:
Ethernet cables are a cable standard that connects computers, routers, and other devices to create networks. They allow us to share information, access the internet, and transfer data between devices.
Ethernet cables have revolutionized modern networking by enabling reliable and efficient communication over local area networks (LAN). But, they also have undergone significant advancements and standardization efforts to meet the evolving demands of data transmission.
Early Ethernet implementations used coaxial cables, but their limitations in bandwidth and reliability led to the development of twisted-pair cables.
The introduction of Category 3 (Cat3) cables in the 1990s allowed for data transfer speeds of up to 10 Mbps. Since then, there have been significant major revisions, bringing about newer standards such as Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7 and in the latest iteration, Cat8.
However, most networks typically use Cat5e, as it became the de facto standard for Ethernet cables in many applications.
They have also witnessed advancements in shielding capabilities and resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Cat7 cables, introduced in the early 2000s, provided superior shielding and performance characteristics. These cables are designed to minimize EMI and crosstalk, making them suitable for demanding applications like data centers and high-speed networks.
But Ethernet Cables do have their downsides and difficulties in implementation.
Despite these limitations, Ethernet still holds up as one of the popular wired connectivity medium for LANs.
The RJ-45 connector is a common type of connector used in Ethernet networking. It was specifically designed for Ethernet connectivity, providing a reliable and standardized interface for data transmission.
The RJ-45 connector provides plug and play functionality, Users can easily connect Ethernet cables to compatible devices without the need for complex configurations or custom adapters. This convenience simplifies network setup and maintenance.
Beyond this, the connector adheres to industry standards, ensuring that devices from different manufacturers can connect seamlessly.
Fiber optic cables are a huge improvement compared to Ethernet, and solves a lot of the pitfalls imposed by the physical capabilities of the specification. These cables quickly gained popularity and began dominating in various industries and applications.
They work by utilizing strands of glass or plastic fibers to transmit data signals in the form of light pulses. The use of light allows for faster and more reliable communication compared to the electrical signals used in Ethernet cables.
This allows for Fiber optic cables to operate at much higher bandwidth, work over longer distances, and even be immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Fiber optic cables come in much fewer categories compared to Ethernet cable standards.
First, There is Single-mode Fiber (SMF), which is designed for long-distance transmission, making it suitable for applications spanning several kilometers. It offers high bandwidth and low signal loss, but is generally more expensive than multimode fiber.
And Multimode Fiber (MMF), which provides lower bandwidth compared to single-mode fiber but is more cost-effective for shorter links. MMF is available in different grades, such as OM1, OM2, OM3, and OM4, with each one providing a difference in performance.
Fiber optic cables supersede all other cabling mediums, being able to provide more than 10 Gbps, going upwards of 40 or even 100 Gbps (Gigabits per second).
With these major improvements in operational performance, there are some setbacks to what fiber optic cables can achieve.
Fiber optic cabling has rapidly gained prominence in the networking industry due to their superior performance. As technology advances and bandwidth requirements continue to escalate, fiber optic cables are expected to maintain their dominance and serve as the backbone of high-speed and reliable data communication networks.
There are various types of fiber optic connectors available, each with its unique design, characteristics, and application suitability.
Commonly used ones include:
SC connector (Subscriber Connector):
The SC connector is a square-shaped connector that uses a push-pull mechanism for quick and secure connections.
SC connectors are widely used in single-mode and multimode fiber optic systems and are popular in data communications and telecommunication applications.
LC Connector (Lucent Connector):
The LC connector is a small form factor (SFF) connector known for its compact size and high-density capabilities.
LC connectors are commonly used in high-density environments such as data centers, telecommunication networks, and enterprise networks.
ST Connector (Straight Tip):
The ST connector is one of the older connectors and is widely used in both single-mode and multimode fiber optic systems.
It uses a bayonet-style twist-lock mechanism for secure connections.
FC Connector (Ferrule Connector):
The FC connector is a threaded connector that provides a more secure connection compared to push-pull connectors.
FC connectors are often found in applications that require high precision and low signal loss, such as laboratory testing, instrumentation, and long-haul communication networks.
Coaxial cables were the primary medium for transmitting signals in early communication systems. They consist of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating jacket.
Coaxial cables provided significant advancement over previous wiring methods, enabling higher data transfer rates and improved signal quality.
In the early days of networking, coaxial cables were widely used for transmitting data, particularly in local area networks (LAN).
Coaxial cables were later replaced by Ethernet and fiber optic cabling. One of the primary limitations was their bandwidth capacity. Coaxial cables offered limited bandwidth, which restricted data transfer rates and hindered the ability to meet the increasing demands of modern applications.
Their use still exists today in some places for things such as TV networks, but mostly have been ousted by other technologies.
BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors are the most common type of coaxial cable connector.
Typically used in both Internet modem connections and cable TV connections.
They are also commonly used for analog video transmission, such as CCTV systems, broadcast equipment, and professional video production.
When choosing the right kind of cabling for your home, work, or enterprise setup, There are a lot of things to take into consideration:
In short, over the years there has been a general shift in trend to what kind of cabling medium to use overall, depending on the situation at hand.
Ethernet cables, ranging from Cat5e to Cat7, offer different performance levels at varying costs. Fiber optic cables, on the other hand, provide high-speed, reliable data transmission over long distances and are immune to electromagnetic interference.
By choosing wisely on whether to opt for Ethernet or fiber optic cables and select the appropriate Ethernet cable standard for the best cost-to-performance ratio, you can make the most out of your setup without having to spend more than needed.
I was on fieldnation for the past year. The key word here is "was" I am here to tell you about all the corks and nuances I discovered after completing 80 WOs
Fieldnation and work market are really the same thing in my opinion. Slightly different rules, but the same buyers.
They let you have all the freedom a gig worker could ever dream of. Take a month off or work 20 hours a day, it is really up to you. No notice to give, no asking anyone for schedules. It is all up to you.
The pay can also be good, if this was all you were doing, $600-$1000 a week is not out of the question. If you are a skilled low voltage technician with a good bit of networking and host configuration knowledge.
It is also a good way to meet recurring buyers, if you impress buyers they can and have contacted me to work outside the platforms.
The number one most horrible thing is the often total lack of humanity. What I mean is every single time you do a job, you are risking everything you have worked for. The rules of fieldnation are so strict, if you firesale one time, as everyone does occasionally, you can be banned forever.
This never happened to me. I actually didn't mind it, it forced me to adopt strategies that worked every time, but it leads into the real reason I have basically quit.
Stress
The amount of stress involved in lining up all these WOs, making sure you 100% will not have any issues, will never have to come back another time because you ran out of something. The talking to people who do not speak English. It is so taxing, I just hate it.
You are essentially on call 24/7 for no pay. If a WO comes up, you must apply or accept within 20 minutes to even have a chance of getting it.
They also have the "route" system. Where companies take and put you in a pool of literally 300 other techs and then they "route" them all the same WO at the same time. You must accept or decline these within 5 minutes or someone else will jump on it.
Often for routes you do not even get to read the statement of work. If you do, then by the time you hit accept it will be gone. Extremely frustrating.
As I was saying, "if you firesale one time you can be banned" this ties into how literally no one you talk to will trust you to even be able to tie your shoes.
They will assume you are totally unqualified because, chances are the last 10 techs they had, were.
This creates two types of people:
The one who treats you like a baby and the one who looks for the slightest thing to yell LOOK, I TOLD EVERYONE THESE PEOPLE DON'T HAVE A CLUE.
Both are horrible to work for/ with.
This is the reason I have a 4.8 instead of a 5-star rating. Buyers will list a WO at an hourly rate, let's say $70 an hour, they will then say this job is going to take 4–6 hours. So, you think that is a good deal, I have no problem driving an hour for a job of that size.
Well, when you get there, it is blatantly obvious this job was never going to take more than an hour. So now you are left out to dry. You blocked off 6 hours because had you not, and it actually took that long, and you had booked something else, kiss your account goodbye.
The reason I dropped to 4.8 stars is because twice I was not having that. I just called the PM and said you need to let me expense an extra couple of hours, I drove an hour for a 20-minute job that you said was going to take all day.
Instead of telling me no, they just gave me bad ratings because that's fair, I guess.
A lot of the techs are not qualified, a lot of the buyers will take advantage of you. The only people raking it in are the companies running them and taking a % off the top of all transactions.
I said it, these platforms are devaluing American businesses. Don't believe me? Here are some of the racks I worked on over the past year.
There are many more than this, but you get the idea. I call it "ravaged by contractors".
In today's digital age, having a website for your business is essential. However, not all companies have the technical expertise to build a website from scratch. As a result, many businesses turn to web development companies to create their online presence. While most web development companies have the skills and knowledge to create stunning websites, some may not know how to code.
In this article, we'll explore why your web development company might not know how to code and what it means for your website.
Web development refers to the process of creating websites and web applications. Web development encompasses many skills and disciplines, including web design, HTML/CSS coding, programming languages, and database management.
Web development companies specialize in building websites and web applications for businesses of all sizes. They have the technical expertise to create websites that are optimized for search engines, user-friendly, and visually appealing.
It may seem counterintuitive, but some web development companies may not know how to code. This may be because they rely on website builders, templates, and content management systems (CMS) to create websites.
Website builders are tools that allow users to create websites without coding. Website builders come with pre-designed templates and drag-and-drop interfaces that make it easy to create websites quickly.
While website builders are easy to use, they are limited in functionality. Website builders are not designed for complex websites, and they lack the flexibility of custom coding. As a result, websites created using website builders may be less optimized for search engines, less user-friendly, and less secure.
Templates are pre-designed website layouts that can be customized to fit a business's needs. Templates are available for all types of websites, including e-commerce sites, blogs, and portfolios.
While templates are a great starting point for website design, they are not unique. Many websites use the same templates, which can make it difficult for a business to stand out from the competition. Additionally, templates may not be optimized for search engines, and they may not be customizable enough to fit a business's specific needs.
Content Management Systems (CMS) are platforms that allow users to create and manage website content. CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla are popular among businesses because they allow users to create and publish content without coding.
While CMS platforms are user-friendly, they may not be optimized for search engines, and they may not be customizable enough to fit a business's specific needs. Additionally, CMS platforms are vulnerable to security threats, and they may not be scalable for larger websites.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, it could mean that your website is less optimized for search engines, less user-friendly, and less secure. Additionally, your website may not be unique, which can make it difficult for your business to stand out from the competition.
Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing a website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). SEO involves many factors, including website structure, content, and coding.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, they may not be able to optimize your website for search engines. This can result in lower search engine rankings, which can make it difficult for potential customers to find your business online.
User experience (UX) is the process of designing websites that are easy to use and navigate. UX involves many factors, including website design, content, and functionality.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, they may not be able to create a user-friendly website. This can result in a poor user experience, which can make it difficult for potential customers
to navigate your website and find the information they need. This can lead to high bounce rates, low conversion rates, and a negative impact on your business's reputation.
Website security is critical for protecting your business and your customers. Websites that are not secure are vulnerable to cyberattacks, which can result in data breaches, stolen information, and financial losses.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, they may not be able to create a website that is secure. This can result in vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. As a result, your business's reputation may be damaged, and you may face legal and financial consequences.
In today's crowded online marketplace, it's essential for businesses to stand out from the competition. A unique website can help your business to differentiate itself from other businesses in your industry.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, they may rely on templates or website builders to create your website. This can result in a website that looks similar to other websites in your industry. A website that looks generic or unoriginal can make it difficult for your business to stand out from the competition.
In conclusion, web development companies play a crucial role in helping businesses create an online presence. However, not all web development companies have the technical expertise to create websites from scratch. Some web development companies may rely on website builders, templates, and CMS platforms to create websites.
If your web development company doesn't know how to code, it can have a significant impact on your website's search engine optimization, user experience, security, and uniqueness. To ensure that your website is optimized for search engines, user-friendly, secure, and unique, it's essential to choose a web development company with the technical expertise to create custom-coded websites.
When choosing a web development company, look for one that has experience in creating custom-coded websites, a portfolio of successful projects, and a team of experts with a wide range of technical skills. By choosing the right web development company, you can ensure that your website is optimized for success in today's digital age.
