#Best Internet Radio Device

[crazydiscostu]

Majority Audio Fitzwilliam 3 Internet Radio

Look at that sleek, silver beauty!

Are you looking for an impressive array of features? A transformative radio experience? Today we’re looking into the Fitzwilliam 3 from Majority Audio, its features and technical specifications. Lets go! Product supplied for review purposes Fitzwilliam 3 Internet Radio The Majority Audio Fitzwilliam 3 Internet Radio brings together the best of DAB+, Bluetooth, Internet, and FM radio in a…

[katakaluptastrophy]

The Nine Houses are obviously deliberately technologically limited. Aside from having FTL capable spaceships, the most advanced piece of technology that we see in the Houses is "an electric transmitter box, with headphones and a mic." It's not clear entirely what sort of device this is, but it apparently requires you to stick an antenna out the window.

On New Rho, Cam has a beeping, and therefore presumably digital watch. Nona has to remind her that's it's called a "watch", and not the House term, "clockwork", which rather suggests House timepieces are analog.

There's a projector box embedded in the BoE conference table, which loads an image like dial up internet because they are "using shortwave" - presumably shortwave radio, which can transmit pictures. As We Suffer apologises for the slowness of the image loading because of shortwave, that suggests that other methods of transmitting an image do exist, but that for whatever reason they're not using those. Perhaps they do normally have something akin to the internet, but this is down due to the conditions on New Rho, or being avoided due to House or inter-cell monitoring.

The audio of Juno Zeta's proof of life is on "a little piece of electronics, a fingernail-shaped thing with prongs", which sounds like some kind of drive.

We also see We Suffer in the impromptu command centre in the tunnels with "a headpiece and a flip-top computer", presumably being used for some kind of communicatons or planning.

And of course, there's Cam and Pal's recorder, which from the descriptions of it making squeaks and garbled noises sounds rather like it might contain a cassette tape.

A paramilitary group on a beseiged planet may not be the best evidence for the level of technology outside of the Houses, but if it is in any way indicative, non-House society doesn't seem to have non-space travel technology beyond things that would have been available in the early 00s.

[caw-oticdork]

Since my previous podcast recommendation list was pretty popular, I've decided to make another, with another bunch of excellent podcasts:

13 Minutes or Less - Short podcast with very short episodes, about a pizza chef who doesn't like dealing to people but has to do some deliveries due to short staffing. Very much not her thing, but she does her best. As it turns out, her clients are quite a bit stranger and spookier than expected...

Additional Postage Required - Sci-Fi adventure about a nonbinary courier who gains the ability (or curse...) to get visions about the contents, past, and sender of packages they touch. They get roped into a rebellion. There's hoverboard racing. It's awesome.

Among the Stars and Bones - A team of xenoarcheologists search a distant world for traces of a long-vanished aliens. It's been a while since I watched this one, so I don't remember it very well, but I know that I enjoyed it. Very good sci-fi horror.

Dark Ages - Fantasy workplace comedy about a supernatural museum. Quite a lot of fun.

Dragon Shanty - Fantasy story about two bards traveling the high seas. There's dragons aplenty. Very queer. Excellent songs.

Falling Forward - Hacker story loosely based on the myth of Icarus and the Labyrinth, about getting back at a terrible corporation. Kinda experimental, this one has the shortest episodes I've ever seen.

Hotel Daydream - Podcast about the goings-on at a supernatural hotel. Very inventive, with really interesting characters.

Jar of Rebuke - Mystery about a researcher at an ominous cryptozoological organization out in the rural US. He's got no memories of his past and keeps dying and coming back. A story about cryptids, identity, queerness, neurodivergence, and community.

Light Hearts - Slice of Life podcast about turning an old, haunted building into a cafe and queer community center. The ghosts lead to some very fun shenanigans.

Lost Terminal - Mentioned in the other list but not expanded on. This is a hopepunk story set on an Earth devestated by climate change. Told from the POV of an adorable AI who watches this Earth from a space station, observing how humanity re-builds itself and finds a brighter future.

Mayfair Watchers Society - You know Trevor Henderson? The guy who drew Sirenhead, Long Horse, and other such creepypasta creatures in his found footage style? Yeah, this is a horror anthology based on his works, directed by him. Set in the rural town of Mayfair, where strange creatures are a lot more common than elsewhere... Each episode has a slightly different framing device, with some being found footage audio, others meeting recordings, phone calls, etc.

Monstrous Agonies - An advice podcast for the british creature community. Many of the advice letters are sent in by listeners - there's two by myself, one from an ant that can hear and send radio and one from a fey who is looking for curse advice. Some letters are metaphors for queerness, clashing cultures, ableism, and minority communities, others just some urban fantasy fun. Has a little bit of plot, but most episodes have an anthology style. Fast approaching the finale!

Mx Bad Luck - Slice of Life about someone who is cursed with bad luck. Sometimes sad, sometimes funny. Can recommend.

Neighbourly - Neighbourly follows the residents of Little Street, house by house. What they do, how they interact with each other, and what skeletons are hiding in their closet. Starts out as a spooky urban fantasy thing that's almost an anthology, but weaves itself into quite a mysterious plot over time...

SINKHOLE - Short-form audio podcast presented as a collection of audio posts from a member of a community of data restoration hobbyists in a sometimes-unfamiliar future. Mystery about disability, internet communities, and how things change with time.

Second Star to the Left - Scout-explorer Gwen Hartley has five years to explore and prepare her planet for settlement. With no aid but her robots and the anxious voice of her long-distance scout-minder Bell Summers in her ear, she's hoping she's ready for anything.

Someone Dies In This Elevator - Anthology where every episode, someone dies in an elevator. You wouldn't believe how creative they get with that simple concept!

Tales from the Low City - By the maker of Mistholme Museum, this podcast explores the everyday lifes of the last people on an alien world, after the surface had become uninhabitable and everyone had fled down into the last city, the subterranean Low City. This one made me cry a lot!

Tartarus - In a secret facility deep beneath Antarctica, an anxious astrobiologist, a terse station manager, and an AI keep humanity safe from the monsters they imprison.

The Attic Monologues - Queer urban fantasy story about a university student who decides to record themself practicing monologues using a collection they found in their attic. Don't forget to listen to the post-credit scenes!

The Bridge - Surreal alternate universe horror story about the keepers of a bridge over the Atlantic. Gets pretty spooky.

The Green Horizon - Sci-Fi comedy about a na'er-do-well Irish space captain and his rag-tag crew traversing a war-torn galaxy in search of fame and fortune. Very fun podcast.

The Lavender Tavern - Anthology podcast with original gay fairytales. Most are quite memorable!

The Vesta Clinic - Sci-Fi story about a clinic that helps various interesting alien lifeforms with their medical issues. Excellent worldbuilding and characters!

Tides - The story of Dr. Winifred Eurus, a xenobiologist trapped on an unfamiliar planet with hostile tidal forces and a fascinating ecosystem. She must use her wits, sarcasm, and intellectual curiosity to survive long enough to be rescued. But there might be more to life on this planet than she expected...

Hope this list is as helpful as the last!

@boombox-fuckboy @marvelousmawn @sapphireclaw @ashes-in-a-jar @frogmomentsfrombeyondtime @time-is-restored @emmy-noethers-rings

You folk seemed the most interested in the other list, so I'm being bold and @ing you all.

[robobrainrot]

What’s Past is Prologue

An Earthspark Post-S1, Pre-S2 summary fic

If you were left unsatisfied by the jarring time gap and tone shift between S1 and S2, here's a mini fic to help fill the void. I'm going to write out the full version on Ao3. But this is the short and sweet summary~

It had been a month since The Battle of Witwicky. The Maltos are still picking up the pieces, both literally and figuratively. While they succeeded in their goal of defeating Mandroid, saving all Transformers on Earth, and quite possibly, the world as a whole, some things were left shattered. Most notably, Quintus Prime’s Emberstone. The pieces were scattered across the globe and, for a moment, Team Prime feared they would be lost forever.

However, Quintus Prime would never leave his chosen stranded. Prime Power or not, the kids did not give up hope. The shards of the Emberstone dispersed, but they were not lost forever. Starting right in their backyard, The Maltos found their first shard in the cow pasture… With the help of Fluffy-Ears, of course. Less than a week later, another was found by Breakdown while racing across the countryside with Bumblebee.

At first, the alliance between Autobots and Decepticons had been tense. Both sides were anxious that the other might sell them out or deceive them. But with the help of the newly declared “Malto-bots,” tensions eased. It was hard not to enjoy their company. It had been centuries since any of them had interacted with bots so young. It was refreshing to have such young and enthusiastic faces around.

Every day, the Maltos searched for more ways to find the missing shards. Some they stumbled across accidentally. Some ended up in museums- dazzling archeologists. Schloder and Optimus Prime had to be the ones to get those. Nightshade created a way of scanning for the shards, but their device’s range was limited so the scouting parties had to travel the world to identify possible locations. Did someone say road trip? The Trine were quick to point out that they were much better suited for the job thanks to the help of Skywarp’s powers.

Starscream had to admit, he was fascinated by these ancient Cybertronian artifacts. His volunteering to help the Maltos was not entirely altruistic. It was an opportunity to show off the superiority of himself and his fellow Seekers and gain knowledge about these strange crystal shards. That’s what he told himself at least. The fact that he often hoovered around the Malto residents when Hashtag was around, and Megatron was not, was purely so he could gather intel.

As for the Malto-bots, they enjoyed the month of relative peace. While not all the Decepticons were eager to become ‘friends’, the ones that stuck around would do their best to teach the kids something while they were there.

Breakdown was the first. Never one to turn down a chance to show off, he was happy to oblige Thrash when he asked for racing tips. He showed the young bot a few flashy new moves, including one that Robby insisted was called “The Akira Slide.” Breakdown maintained that it was a Stunticon specialty, and certainly not inspired by a cartoon.

Swindle tried to teach the kids how to override security locks at the junkyard, but was quickly shut down by Elita-One. He complained to Hardtop about what a wasted opportunity it was for three days straight.

Skullcrusher, Grimlock, and Jawbreaker formed a special alliance that Jawbreaker dubbed “The Beastie Boys.” They spent their down time sparing and seeing who could leave the biggest dent in scrap metal pieces.

Soundwave and his casseticons taught Hashtag how to utilize her radio to scramble comm frequencies. In return, she taught them about the wonders of the internet. This was a terrible decision, as Frenzy quickly became engrossed by internet subcultures. Soundwave had to step in with what Mo would call his “Mad Dad Voice.” On the bright side, the discovery of Kandi culture led to a group friendship bracelet making party.

Even Shockwave took some time to mentor the bots. Well. Realistically it was just Nightshade in the lab, but The Great Shockwave was cool enough that the other Maltos pretended to pay attention for half of his science monolouge.

The Decepticons started creating their own home base in between Emberstone shard scouting missions. Led by Starscream, with Shockwave as his Second, they found a suitable location far enough away from the former-GHOST base, but not so far away that it would be impossible to reach the Terrans if needed.

This was one area that walked the line of the treaty. The Decepticons were entitled to make a home on Earth. Optimus Prime respected their wishes on this matter. He instructed the other Autobots and Maltos to stay out as well. If there was going to be a chance at lasting peace, they needed to build trust. Many of the Decepticons had been imprisoned by GHOST for years. They deserved a safe space without surveillance as much as anyone. Freedom was the right of all sentient beings, and Prime would sooner go offline than go back on that principle.

There was still much they didn’t know. With every new answer about the emberstones came more questions. Between chaos and confusion, there was also stillness and affection. For these precious moments, both Autobots, Decepticons and Maltobots could enjoy the time of respite.

However, nothing really lasts forever.

[irkimatsu]

I like how Sinners in Hell have different approaches to advancements made after they died. Angel and Vox, for example, have taken to modern technology like smartphones and video streaming just fine, little to no stumbling as far as I know.

Sir Pentious... tries to keep up, bless him, but hey, not everyone can do it easily. I don't think it's necessarily tied to age at death or time of death, some people are just better at adjusting to newfangled fads and devices than others. I'm sure him dying in the 1800's certainly doesn't help, but also he's just a bit dim regardless. (He's still great with steam technology, though, so he'll be fine! ...oh god, Sir Pentious somehow making a functioning computer using technology that existed while he was alive and then proceeding to "How do you do fellow kids" all over the Internet)

And then there are Sinners like Alastor who thought things were just fine when all we had was radio, thank you very much, he's not going near any of this video bullshit. The idea that it could be his deep hatred of video technology that makes him impossible to film makes me laugh. It's not a superpower, really, he just hates cameras that goddamn much.

As for Husk, for now I see him as disinterested in modern technology, and with his claws, trying to teach him how to use a keyboard or a touch screen would be a nightmare. And don't even get him started on synthesized music. What is this garbage. Electro-swing leaves him feeling violated.

(Probably best that Husk doesn't discover the Internet, really. We don't need him getting hooked on one of those shady virtual poker sites that steals your banking information.)

[logorrhea5mip]

So, and correct me if I'm wrong, this is the only completely secure way to communicate over the internet:

1. Get a second computer which you will from now on never connect to the internet nor in any way allow to talk with any other computer, including flash drives, cables, Bluetooth, whatever.

2. Get it inside a Faraday cage that has an airlock type door so that you can always keep it closed.

This is because even of you rip out the antennas on a device, all modern motherboards have a backdoor which allows any government agents with proper equipment to compromise it via short range radio.

For good measure, get that computer its own power supply separate from the grid, to truly air gap it from the internet.

3. Anything which ever appears on any computer or phone can immediately be considered known to every security agency in the world, since all modern devices have backdoors put there for that reason.

Therefore, install on the other computer an encryption program(best if you make it yourself), whose resulting meaningless jumble of digits you by hand copy over to send to whoever needs it, presuming you gave them the key to decrypt it irl scribbled on a note or via the usual public private key method.

If any of this could be made simpler, please tell me, but I'm pretty sure that it can't.

[harpyreborn]

Phenexis’s Tools! Gifts from the Omnidentus and Friends

First gift, The Rift Sword: A very…pretty but typical looking two handed great sword. Its got Good balanced weight. And is extraordinarily sharp. Made from as pure metal as could be acquired at time of construction. Imbued with magical properties that allow the extremely sharp blade to cut through time and space itself opening portals to new places. The sword also allows you to pull places into one another. So she can pull her shopfront into a different world/dimension by cutting open a space just big enough for the shop front to fit into. Thus always having an immediate way back home.

Second gift, The Scrying Necklace: A crystalline clear aquamarine/turquoise gem held by a pure silver chain and cap. The jewel is a scrying device that can find almost anything your looking for on a map, works with almost any map but works best with Phens navimap. Swing it above the map and when it locates whats asked of it, it yanks down and pinpoints the location. (Phen has currently only used it to find already used portals to specific locations)

Third Gift, The Navimap: A map that shows the surrounding area(s) in complete accuracy. It magically changes as the land itself does ensuring it is always accurate. You can zoom in and out to see the area in more detail and depth as needed. Will tell you what beings/ creatures and plants are in the area, just not where they are.

GIFTS FROM FRIENDS

First Gift, The Multiversal Camera aka the Funny Bunny Pola Mini!: Taking a picture with this polaroid allows you to travel to that SPECIFIC universe. (Like earth 52 vs earth 45 kinda thing) Traveling without a specific universe in mind will land you in one of the MANY multiverse options. (So you wanted to go to merpeople earth but instead went to goblin earth because you didn’t take a picture in merpeople earth) Phenexis takes a picture with the first friend she makes there so she can return to see them.

Second gift, The Shellphone:

A Video phone made by combining her friends knowledge of magic and technology with her own to create not only a communications device but a whole magic based version of the internet! So long as it can connect to magic, the internet/some form of mechanical or radio telecommunication, or another communications device in semi close range it will work just about any and everywhere!

It takes photos/videos.

Plays music/Audio/basic games/movies

You can store and read texts (like books)

Send “scrolls” (a text)

Write with a holo-pen in your scrolls!

And beam up little interactive holograms of whatever is on your screen by opening it up flat!

Eventually her friends are gifted/make their own variations of these items so they can travel separately but always find one another!

[taylorswiftandx]

Taylor Swift and Electronic Devices

Note: huge thank you to @meandmypagancrew who assembled the lyrics for this post! I have included here just nouns denoting electronic devices themselves, but you may also be interested in actions/media requiring these types of devices found on TS and Calling, Watching, Pictures, Films/Movies, Planes, Cars, the Internet, Tweeting, and Electricity.

'Taylor Swift'

Tim McGraw: The moon like a spotlight on the lake

Teardrops On My Guitar: As I turn out the light I’ll put his picture down and maybe get some sleep tonight

A Place In This World: Got the radio on, my old blue jeans

Stay Beautiful: He smiles, it’s like the radio

Our Song: I look around, turn the radio down

Our Song: When we’re on the phone and you talk real slow cause it’s late and your mama don’t know

Our Song: I’ve heard every album, listened to the radio

Our Song: When we’re on the phone and he talks real slow, 'cause it’s late and his mama don’t know

'Fearless (Taylor's Version)'

Hey, Stephen: They’re dimming the street lights

You Belong With Me: You’re on the phone with your girlfriend, she’s upset

Forever & Always: And I stare at the phone, he still hasn’t called

Jump Then Fall: We’re on the phone and without a warning, I realize your laugh is the best sound I have ever heard

SuperStar: So dim that spotlight, tell me things like I can’t take my eyes off of you

SuperStar: You sing me to sleep every night from the radio

The Other Side Of The Door: Going through the photographs, staring at the phone

That’s When: Then through the phone came all your tears

'Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)'

Mine: Do you remember all the city lights on the water?

Dear John: Wondering which version of you I might get on the phone tonight

Never Grow Up: I tuck you in, turn on your favorite night light

Never Grow Up: I tuck myself in and turn my night light on

Innocent: Your string of lights is still bright to me, oh

Ours: Elevator buttons and morning air

Electric Touch: Got a feeling your electric touch could fill this ghost town up with life

Electric Touch: In the heat of your electric touch

Electric Touch: I’ve gotten used to no one calling my phone

'Red (Taylor's Version)'

State of Grace: I’m walking fast through the traffic lights

Treacherous: Two headlights shine through the sleepless night

All Too Well: We’re dancing around the kitchen in the refrigerator light

Stay Stay Stay: I threw my phone across the room at you

Holy Ground: Took off faster than a green light, go

The Lucky Ones: And the camera flashes make it look like a dream

The Lucky Ones: Another name goes up in lights

The Lucky Ones: ‘Cause now my name is up in lights

Begin Again: Turn the lock and put my headphones on

The Moment I Knew: Christmas lights glisten, I’ve got my eye on the door

Girl At Home: I see you turn off your phone

Girl At Home: I wanna see you pick up your phone and tell her you’re coming home

'1989 (Taylor’s Version)'

Welcome To New York: The lights are so bright but they never blind me

Wonderland: Flashing lights and we took a wrong turn

New Romantics: We’re all here, the lights and noise are blinding

Is It Over Now?: Did you think I didn't see you, there were flashing lights

'reputation'

Delicate: Phone lights up my nightstand in the black

Getaway Car: There were sirens in the beat of your heart

Dancing With Our Hands Tied: I’d kiss you as the lights went out

'Lover'

Cruel Summer: Hang your head low in the glow of the vending machine

Cruel Summer: So cut the headlights, summer’s a knife

Lover: We could leave the Christmas lights up ‘til January

Miss Americana And The Heartbreak Prince: Waving homecoming queen, marching band playing, I’m lost in the lights

Miss Americana And The Heartbreak Prince: Running through rose thorns, I saw the scoreboard and ran for my life

Miss Americana And The Heartbreak Prince: No cameras catch my pageant smile

Miss Americana And The Heartbreak Prince: No cameras catch my muffled cries

Cornelia Street: As if the streetlights pointed in an arrowhead leading us home

Death By A Thousand Cuts: Chandelier’s still flickering here 'cause I can’t pretend it’s okay when it’s not

Death By A Thousand Cuts: I ask the traffic lights if it’ll be all right, they say, “I don’t know”

Soon You’ll Get Better: In doctor’s office lighting, I didn’t tell you I was scared

ME!: I know that I went psycho on the phone

It’s Nice To Have A Friend: Video games, you pass me a note

'folklore'

Cardigan: Vintage tee, brand new phone

Cardigan: Dancing in your Levi’s, drunk under a streetlight

Cardigan: I knew you’d miss me once the thrill expired and you’d be standing in my front porch light

This Is Me Trying: You're a flashback in a film reel on the one screen in my town

Betty: Stopped at a streetlight, you know I miss you

The Lakes: These hunters with cell phones

'evermore'

Dorothea: A tiny screen’s the only place I see you now

Cowboy Like You: Now I’m waiting by the phone

Evermore: Motion capture put me in a bad light

Evermore: I rewind the tape but all it does is pause on the very moment all was lost

'Midnights'

Maroon: The rust that grew between telephones

Snow On The Beach: This scene feels like what I once saw on a screen

You’re On Your Own, Kid: I touch my phone as if it’s your face

Midnight Rain: And he never thinks of me except for when I’m on TV

Paris: Let the only flashing lights be the tower at midnight in my mind

Other Songs written by Taylor

All Of The Girls You Loved Before: When you think of all the late nights, lame fights over the phone

Christmas Tree Farm: In my heart is a Christmas tree farm where the people would come to dance under sparkling lights

Christmases When You Were Mine: When you were putting up the lights this year did you notice one less pair of hands?

Only The Young: You brace for the sound you’ve only heard on TV

Official Alternate Releases

(no electronics)

[heartfullofleeches]

Oc-tober Day Two – Trick or Treat

Criminal Yandere – Donnie

Word Count: 1.8k

“Are we there yet?”

The cool autumn air smacks your cheek as the van hits a bump in the road. Blindfold, you sit in the passenger seat awaiting the moment your little journey ends. A chuckle comes from the driver’s side; seasonal themed music blaring from the car's radio.

To celebrate the holiday, your friend Donnie had taken you out for an evening of untold festivities. They wouldn’t give you a single hint on what the plans for the eve were, and only asked that you give them your trust. It probably wasn’t the best idea to let someone you’ve only met a handful of times before and from the internet blindfold and carry you off to an unmarked location, but they’ve given no reason for suspicion so far. They apparently went to your high school and messaged you because they recognized you. 

“Dunno.” 

The van pulls to a stop. You hear them pop one their door, open the one on their rear side, then walk around to your side of the car. They open your door and hand you the handle of whatever they grabbed. Taking off your blindfold, you see that you’re holding a plastic pumpkin pail.

“Surprise!”

Behind you is a neighborhood completely decked out in Halloween décor. Inflatable ghosts, eerie lights, cobwebs, and so much more to behold. It was a young trick or treater’s biggest dream, yet here you two adults stood – you in whatever costume you could find and them as none other than a certain crime fighting turtle. It wasn’t even a full costume. They just bought a turtle shell backpack and knitted their own mask.

“We’re… going trick or treating?”

“Yup.”

“Don’t you think we’re a little too old for this? And are you even going to be okay for the walk?” 

“Course not, and don’t worry this neighborhood isn’t that big, plus I got this if I get too tired.” Donnie shows you a cane crafted out of wood, a white cloth tied around each end. You’re still on the fence about this. “I don’t know. Besides, is anyone even giving out candy? I don’t see any kids around.”

That was something you gradually picked up during your inspection of the neighborhood. The streets were completely empty of people; even folks in regular attire. You could tell it was more of a secluded location, but there still had to be some people with children; especially with all these decorations. Donnie shrugs.

“We won’t know unless we go knock on somebody’s door. Come on.”

“Fine.” You take their outstretched hand and hop pit the car. Together, you cross the street onto the first sidewalk; auburn leaves crunching beneath your feet. Donnie lets you the lead as you draw towards your first house. A simple two story with its front lawn transformed into a graveyard. Tombstones protrude from the grass; plastic limbs and torsos spewed about and depicting the undead rising from their graves. A fog rolled by your ankles; a generator rumbling soft off somewhere in the backyard. You head up to the front door, casting your gaze at Donnie still on the steps. They wave. You turn back and ring the doorbell.

You hear a faint, “Oh shit.”, as someone scrambles to the door, the scrape of glass against another surface passing as they unlock the door. A man close to your age appearance wise answers the door, fake blood around his mouth. He looks behind you at Donnie, then back at you. 

“Trick or Treat.” You chime, holding out your bucket. It feels a little silly.

“Hey. Didn’t think anyone was coming to this neighborhood. My folks had me babysit and pass candy out, but no one’s showed up tonight. You can have it all.”

The guy dumps the entire bowl of candy into your pail; shutting the door afterwards. They’re full sized packs opposed to the fun one would see; and sweets you all enjoyed. With just one house your bag was already halfway full. You return back to Donnie who had been typing away on their phone till you walked over. They pocket the device and nod their head in greeting. 

“So how’d it go?”

“He gave me the whole bowl. The bucket’s nearly full already.”

“How about that? You can use my backpack if you need to deposit anything. Wanna head on to the next?”

You’re already on the way before they can finish their sentence. Donnie sneaks one last look at you before joining you; the house’s curtains drawn as its lights go dark. The next spot is more plain in layout. A carnival themed set with small arrows pointing down the illuminated path towards a clown mannequin on the porch with a candy bowl in its lap. You walk up to it to take one; the clowns hand shooting around yours as you go to grab it. You scream.

“Ah!” 

The clown bursts into a full belly laugh. “Surry, didn’t mean to scare ya. Just wanted to say hi. Here ya go.”

He reaches into the bowl; grabbing a majority of the treats in his large hand before tossing them into your bucket. He sends you off with another chuckle. Heart still racing, you once again head over to Donnie. Their camera shutter blinds you as they take a picture. The fear in your chest dies down.

“You saw him moving didn’t you?” You ask, slightly hitting them with the pumpkin. They raise their arm in defense.

“Course not.”

“Whatever. Can I put this in your backpack?” You unzip their backpack as they turn around, pouring your current hall in the bag. You smile, placing your hand over your heart as you start walking. “He got me good, I thought I was going to have a heart attack.”

“Scared cat.” Donnie throws their arm over your shoulder with a grin; looking over theirs as they shout. “You should be more careful next time. Don’t want anyone getting hurt.”

The clown hurries into the house.

The next place is one of the homes with a pop up ghoul in their yard. The lights are off – bowl sitting smack center on the porch. Both of you headed up to it this time. There’s no sign telling how many you could take, but you thought it would be best to ask.

“Think we should only take one?” 

“Let’s see if we’ll get in trouble for doing the opposite.” Donnie picks up the bowl, unloads every piece of candy in your bucket then rings the doorbell before sprinting off the porch. They cross the yard before you can leave it, hopping over the small hedge and onto the sidewalk. You speed after them, the street empty as you make your way onto them. You look around for them, a shadow lurking behind you as you search. 

“Gotcha.”

Donnie leaps from behind a tree and splitters their arms around you. Picking up that it's them from their voice, you laugh and playfully try to shake them off. Donnie keeps you to their chest; hands around your wrists and fingers edging towards the palm of your free hand. They just want to hold you a little longer. They let you go as candy falls out of your overstuffed pail.

“You have to admit. I’d make a good ninja.” They pant. They’re a little winded, but assure you that they’re doing alright. You continue on to the next location; picking up on a pattern with each house you visit. Every one either has a bowl left out or the residents are turning in for the night and gives you the remainder of their candy. It’s not just sweets either. Popcorn balls and other snacks fill your bag as well. You even get plastic fangs at one spot. A quarter of the way through the first street, you and Donnie take a breather at one of the houses; sitting on some old swings as you break into your stash.

“Are you enjoying yourself, Y/n?” Donnie asks, swinging their legs as they place a piece of hard candy in their mouth. They watch you as they suck on it – anxiously waiting your answer.

You push yourself forward, the wind rocking you in your swing. “Of course. I didn’t know what to expect when we first came, but it’s been pretty fun since we started.”

They smile faintly; the red glow of the coffin in the grass making their face look red. “I’m glad. I.. like it when you’re having a good time. Makes it easy for me to have one too. I’d do anything to make you happy, Y/n. No matter what it took.”

You stop swinging. Donnie stiffens, stretching as they stand up. “Anyway, my back’s killing me. I’m gonna head back to the car, but you can hit up the rest of the houses if you want. Maybe I’ll join you again later.”

“Oh… okay. See you later.”

“I’d say be safe….but I know you will be.”

-

Donnie kicks over a stray goblin statue as they stroll down the desolate road. Reaching its end, they hop off the sidewalk and towards their van. A roadblock separates the street from the outside world, a smoking police officer leading against it. They raise their hand to catch his attention. “Evening, officer!”

The cop stomps out his cigarette and waves back to them. Must be some pile up on another road. Donnie climbs into their van, retrieving a laptop from the back. Powering it on reveals a live feed of the neighborhood, filmed from various areas ranging from street lamps to doorbell cameras. They fall back in their chair as you walk by one of them, watching you in a fashion they were far more used to than in person. 

There’s still the glow of happiness on your face. Donnie marks down the timestamp for when they get home. It’ll be a great addition to their collection along with their other favorite moments of the night. Aside from one of their helpers roaming behind you for extra safety, you were alone. Donnie was lucky to have found this neighborhood. Most of the properties were on renting sites, so they didn’t have to worry about too many locals running your fun. The thought reminds them of something. They pick up their phone and make a quick call.

“Hey, the old guy still breathing?”

“For now.”

“Just leave him in the bathtub and run cold water over him, then head home out the back. Make sure you clean up and take all the evidence with you.  I saw the cans.”

The person on the other line mumbles in compliance before hanging up. Donnie goes back to watching you on the cameras as you pick up another bowl. Maybe someday they’d be able to show how the full extent of their feelings with a more in-person manner, but for now they were perfectly fine with displaying it from afar. 

[innervoiceartblog]

Canadian poet and novelist Margaret Atwood (1939) is best known for her searing explorations of feminism, sexuality, and politics in books like The Handmaid’s Tale (1986), a dystopian novel that takes place in a United States, which has become a fundamentalist theocracy where women are forced to have children. She started writing the book on a battered, rented typewriter while on a fellowship in West Berlin. The book became an international best-seller. Atwood’s daughter was nine when it was published; by the time she was in high school, The Handmaid’s Tale was required reading. Atwood once said, “Men often ask me, ‘Why are your female characters so paranoid?’ It’s not paranoia. It’s recognition of their situation.”

Atwood was born in Ottawa, Ontario. Her father was an entomologist and the family lived for a long time in insect-research stations in the wilderness. She was 11 before she attended a full year of school. About growing up in near isolation, Atwood said: “There were no films or theatres in the North, and the radio didn’t work very well. But there were always books. I learned to read early, was an avid reader and read everything I could get my hands on — no one ever told me I couldn’t read a book. My mother liked quietness in children, and a child who is reading is very quiet.”

One day she was walking across a football field on her way home and began writing a poem in her head and decided to write it down. She says: “After that, writing was the only thing I wanted to do. I didn’t know that this poem of mine wasn’t at all good, and if I had known, I probably wouldn’t have cared.”

Her first novel was The Edible Woman (1969), about a woman who cannot eat and feels that she is being eaten. Atwood likes to write in longhand, preferably with a Rollerball pen, and is even the co-inventor of the LongPen, a remote signing device that allows a person to write in ink anywhere in the world using a tablet and the internet. Her books include Alias Grace (1996), Oryx and Crake (2003), and The Heart Goes Last (2015).

About the writing life, Margaret Atwood says: “You most likely need a thesaurus, a rudimentary grammar book, and a grip on reality. This latter means: there’s no free lunch. Writing is work. It’s also gambling. You don’t get a pension plan. Other people can help you a bit, but ­essentially you’re on your own. ­Nobody is making you do this: you chose it, so don’t whine.”

#TheWritersAlmanac

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - Alto/Landgraab

Under pressure (short Part)

A little later. While his wife is on her way to bed, Nick gets on the radio. This was only intended for radio communication between him and the people who apparently had a great influence on him. The Altos hadn't used their computer for a long time, as they still believe they no longer have internet. The reception with this old device was not always the best, but this one frequency was crystal clear to understand. “Please don't talk for so long, Nick, I want to sleep”.

Back then, the catastrophe with the meteorites was just the right opportunity for those who control things from afar to turn Nick Alto into their puppet. They were the ones who contacted him first The radio receiver was usually always in the town hall. And by now he already knew the frequency by heart, which allowed him to make contact with the outside world, albeit involuntarily.

Nick adjusted the volume so quietly that he could just hear something and that it didn't disturb his wife. You could hear a soft click on the line, rhythmically, at intervals of about 2 seconds. Like a telephone ringing through. Then you heard a man's voice. “What's the Parole?"/ ‘Censorship 20 doesn't exist“. A short pause… “Mr. Alto… what do you have to report?”.

“Well…the experiment is not going as you had hoped. As you ordered me to do, I have contributed nothing to the reconstruction. I didn't give any Support. But the people here are not as stupid as you thought…"/ „Nevertheless, you were of the same opinion as we were, Mr. Alto….“/ „I know, but..“/ „But?’…

Nick deliberately took a little time before answering again. “Mr. Alto??"/ ”I'll let you know my decision next time. But to do so, you have to support us once again with an important delivery, regardless of whether my decision is positive or negative for you, we urgently need a few things here”. For a few seconds, all you could hear were two or three muffled voices conferring at the other end, one of them a little louder. “Don't play games, Alto… What do you need?”.

Of course, Vita wasn't asleep yet. She could only really rest when the room was completely dark. So she listened to the conversation, even though her husband tried to be as quiet as possible. She could hear Nick listing a few things that were urgently needed here. And she smiled quietly to herself. “If YOU don't cooperate, there's no deal between us, over and out.” was the last thing Nick said before he cut the connection again. His thoughts were racing and he really had a lot to think about.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

End of this part (the next one will be longer again)

@greenplumbboblover 😊

[buym3ulist]

BEST USA IPTV PROVIDERS

In today's digital world, the way we watch TV has changed dramatically. The days of relying solely on cable TV are behind us. Now, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) provides a more flexible and often more affordable way to enjoy your favorite shows and movies. If you're searching for the best IPTV USA providers in 2024, this guide is here to help you find the perfect fit for your entertainment needs.

Understanding IPTV

So, what exactly is IPTV? It's a service that delivers TV content over the internet. Unlike traditional cable or satellite TV, IPTV streams live TV and on-demand content online, offering features like catch-up TV and a broad selection of channels, including international ones.

Top 5 IPTV Providers in the USA for 2024

MITRA IPTV

MITRA IPTV is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a wide variety of content. With over 22,000 live TV channels and 120,000 movies and series, there's plenty to watch. It's compatible with many devices, including Android, iOS, Firestick, Smart TVs, and Windows/Mac PCs, making it a versatile option.

IPTV KAUFEN TV

Known for its high-quality streaming and extensive content library, IPTV KAUFEN TV offers over 22,500 channels and a VOD library of 100,000 movies and series. It provides a comprehensive viewing experience, though users might experience occasional buffering during peak times.

IPTV USA

IPTV USA provides a robust selection of over 54,000 channels and 80,000 VOD options in HD, FHD, and 4K quality. It supports a wide range of devices, giving users flexibility. Plus, they offer a 24-hour free trial, so you can explore their offerings before committing.

XtremeHD IPTV

XtremeHD IPTV is recognized for its excellent value and rich content offerings. It's one of the top choices for 2024, providing a diverse range of channels and high-quality streaming options.

Helix IPTV

Helix IPTV is a flagship provider known for its extensive entertainment offerings at a reasonable cost. It features over 20,000 radio channels globally and a vast VOD library, catering to sports fans, movie lovers, and family entertainment needs alike.

Key Considerations When Choosing the Best IPTV USA Provider

When selecting an IPTV provider, consider these factors to ensure you choose the best service for your needs:

Channel Selection: Make sure the provider offers a diverse range of channels, including your preferred local, national, and international options.

Content Quality: Look for providers that offer HD or 4K streaming for an exceptional viewing experience.

Device Compatibility: Verify that the service is compatible with your preferred devices, such as Smart TVs, smartphones, or streaming sticks.

Price: Consider your budget and the features included in each subscription plan.

Customer Support: Reliable customer support is crucial for troubleshooting any technical issues.

Conclusion

IPTV offers a compelling alternative to traditional cable TV in the USA. By considering the factors mentioned above and conducting thorough research, you can find the best IPTV service provider that caters to your specific needs and ensures a legal and enjoyable streaming experience. Remember to prioritize reputable providers and enjoy the vast world of entertainment that IPTV offers.

[cyanidas]

Forever ago, I wanted to make my own fan-region, complete with fakemon! Well, finally I got to make a few of them!! I guess I really like wings 😆

More info under cut (names, typings, shiny versions, general stuff) ✂️ (warning; it’s a lot!)

Pangolime (Electric/Normal) -> Joulemon (Electric) -> Circitraco (Electric/Dragon)

Pangolime is the size of a rat! They curl up into balls to conserve heat and ward off predators, and their blue scales conduct electricity. Their natural habitat is the desert, where they travel along dunes by rolling up and letting the wind blow them across the land! They’re the tamest of the lineage, as they’re commonly docile and handle well as pets. It’s common to see them in stores as symbols of good nature, or in hospitals as therapy assistants.

Joulemon is typically as big as a large housecat. Their thick, fat tails help regulate body temperature and root them to the ground, which is useful in windy climates, especially during duststorms and tornadoes. Their call sounds like a desert rain frog, and they can be about as temperamental. When they sense a threat to their territory, they stamp the ground with their forelegs and stare while squeaking angrily, warning enemies they are about to attack.

Circitraco is usually about 2-3ft in height, maybe the size of a medium dog. This lineage is known for their fruity aroma, and Circitraco most of all. The older the Circitraco, the sweeter and milder they smell. They’re known for being playful, if not a little unpredictable in nature. Still, they are the most intelligent of their lineage, possessing knowledge of art, basic math, and the concept of human language.

Raytubat (Electric) -> Consoules (Electric/Flying) -> Analoghoul (Electric/Dragon)

Raytubat is about 8in wide. This lineage is man-made, much like Porygon - however, they’ve gained the ability to have eggs and have become known as a city-dwelling pest around the region. Raytubat are usually seen infesting the back rooms and storage areas of stores and warehouses, where they feed off the building’s energy. You’ll know you have an infestation when your overhead lights begin flickering constantly, and your power bill skyrockets. They aren’t too bright, either.

Consoules is the size of a minipig, and about as hefty. They fly by propelling magnetic fuel from their tails and wings, and their ears act as GPS devices. They’re incredibly playful, and although quick to fear humans, they’re as easily re-domesticated as NYC pigeons. If you can lift them, you can just kinda grab one, no battle needed. The red gems on their body store power, and if you get close enough to the gem on their chest, you can hear odd radio waves! Since they still lack mouths, they consume exclusively electricity, and their favorite food is internet data.

Analoghoul are tech gargoyles about 5ft in length. They are fiercely territorial; you’d best hope that a Raytubat infestation doesn’t grow to become an Analoghoul problem because of its aggressive nature. The crystal ball it carries stores its energy, and slots into the divet in its chest. They have grown huge jaws that can rip through metal and thick cables with ease, which allow them to eat electrical wiring to better absorb the nutrients. Metal waste, once all electricity has been absorbed, is reverted out of its mouth as a solid metal pellet which is collected by cleanup crews and melted down for reuse. Despite being considered dangerous and harmful pests, certain tech companies employ their use to ward off other dangerous pests and intruders due to their territorial habits. Once fully domesticated, they become intensely loyal creatures.

Vixierrot (Fairy) -> Phantomime (Ghost) -> Coulrosee (Ghost/Fairy)

Vixierrot, which are the size of babydolls, are horribly pathetic creatures. They are born depressed and anxious, and move slow as sloths on the ground, where they do their best to eat flowering plants and small prey. Despite this, they fail tremendously. Without help from caretakers, whether that be older members of their lineage or human owners, they suffer greatly and perish. In order to get them to evolve, they require lots of love and affection and a specialized diet.

Phantomime are the size of real-life foxes. After evolving into this form, their happiness is completely reset as they struggle to cope with their new forms. Moody and anxious, some even run away from home upon evolving, so special containment procedures are necessary when caring for Vixierrot. They are totally silent and become solitary, preferring to watch friends and family from a distance. At their best, they love to play charades and make others laugh. They also have a certain craving for Fidough.

Coulrosee are quite large, about the size of humans! They’ve become quite comedic creatures, doing their best to entice laughter and play in others. It can become problematic, however, if not properly trained; they can mistake misery for delight or actively impose humor onto those who don’t want it as an attempt to help. Properly trained Coulrosee are highly sought-after by retirement homes, hospitals, and other such places for their unique ability to instill a fun, light-hearted atmosphere with their contagious laughter!

Angelure (Fire/Fairy) -> Cherrem (Fire) -> Seraphell (Risen: Psychic/Fire, Fallen: Dragon/Fire)

Angelure share a size with Morelull. They typically float in groups of up to 50 members, lighting up the dawn sky with their adorable little flames like fireflies. They have the ability Comatose, and entice onlookers who wander too close to fall asleep where they stand. People put to sleep by these creatures are said to have dreams of the afterlife and their ancestors. Angelure love to feed on these dreams.

Cherrem are typically about 13in in length, but their tails can reach up to 30in! They slither along the ground, leaving smouldering trails in their wake, hoping to entice fire-reliant prey to follow them to their dens, which are usually made out of stone or moss burrows. They put their prey to sleep for consumption. Although this is pretty gruesome, pet Cherrem are well-known to be quite shy, gently taking food from their owner’s hands and hiding their faces behind their toasty wings. This species can survive on diets of either meat or plants!

Seraphell are about 4ft in length each. In order to evolve into its Risen form, Cherrem (after evolving) must only consume plant matter and/or berries for 15 levels (in game, at least once every level). If the Cherrem were to consume only meat for 15 levels, it would become its Fallen form. If both or neither, then it will not evolve. Risen Seraphell and Fallen Seraphell become hostile toward one another, and their fights can become pretty ruthless. It’s advised to keep them separated. They do make excellent companions for humans, especially to the mentally unwell. It’s common to see them in mental hospitals due to their comforting, laid-back attitudes.

Sootspry (Fire) -> Burnowl (Fire/Flying) -> Wildflyr (Fire/Flying)

Sootspry are the size of two Joltik! They are energetic, frightful creatures who prefer to live in underground packs, sometimes consisting of hundreds of them at once! They feed off of fallen logs and old buildings, relying on Burnowl to scout new homes or sources of food. They burn red hot, and can’t fly yet, but they do flutter haphazardly along walls, sticking together to move as a mass.

Burnowl are, you guessed it, owl-sized defensive, intelligent creatures. They prefer food which has already been burned, so they eat what Sootspry leave behind. They’re able to spot prey by seeing and sensing their heat signatures. They are maternal creatures, often seen taking care of babies that aren’t even their own in the wild!

Wildflyr, the size of a large American Forest cat, are adorable, fierce, independent, and loving creatures. Sometimes they’re wrongly accused of setting forests ablaze, but research has shown they actually help prevent it by hunting other Fire-type prey. To see one flying across the night sky is said to bring good luck to all who see, so they have a dedicated festival in the summertime where a local herd is released at midnight to glide across the moon.

Kernamite (Grass/Bug) -> Chrysabud (Grass/Bug) -> Lichemoth (Grass/Bug)

Kernamite are sweet little creatures, only 5in tall. They live near bogs and temperate climates, like the base of a mountain, where they feed on moss and bog mud. They make homes in bog water and marsh grasses, where they live in independent groups. They have no trouble crawling on people, but may leave behind silky residue, which is what they secrete in order to stick to things. Their fur feels grassy, but their ears are hard and shell-like.

Chrysabud, football sized, are evolved from Kernamite who consume mud from a unique bog located at the top of a mountain in this region. They form a hard silky outer shell, keeping their legs free enough to attach and slowly move along different surfaces. Large leaf blades sprout from their ears and tail, sharp enough to ward off potential predators. In the wild, they typically stick to one tree to sap nutrients from until they can evolve again. Although quite slow and seemingly distant-minded, they still respond to their owners!

Lichemoth are pleasant-smelling, graceful creatures who are about 1-2ft long. They exclusively live in and around bogs, forests, and marshes. Their diet consists solely of fruit, berries, mineral-rich water, and carcasses. They are gentle, but some work will be needed to get one to be totally friendly. Their fur is soft and grassy, and their tails feel like moss! They enjoy holding moisture in their tails and manes, and often love to be outside during snowstorms. Despite this, they can only live in moist areas, and too cold temperatures will freeze their bodies solid, forcing them into hibernation.

Thank you for reading!! Here are the Shiny forms!! :D

[sonicasura]

You guys know the new show called My Amazing Digital Circus produced by Gooseworx and Glitch. Well, I came up with a way to make things more traumatically chaotic. Now the show's synopsis alongside trailer is what will be used here so people who haven't seen the show can watch the pilot without spoilers.

'A woman gets trapped in a crazy virtual world along with five other humans and are now subject to the whims of wacky AI and their own personal traumas.'

The crux of my idea involves the exit, a target goal for everyone stuck inside TADC. (Said in the summary for the pilot.) What would happen if there were two ways to leave the digital world? Consequences are bound to happen when you consider the situation at hand.

Everyone's minds have been taken but not their actual bodies. A comatose person needs to be constantly tended to or else they die. There's also the fact that family members and hospital staff can pull the plug if need be.

Anyone whose been stuck in the circus for too long most likely don't have their body anymore. Their minds are trapped unless a suitable vessel is found. Sounds scary already.

Now for my idea of two exits: a proper and flawed. Proper is the original way to leave TADC with the mind going back to its body. An exit no one knows whether it exists or not.

Flawed path is very unconventional but escape is mostly ensured. The person returns to the real world but not as themselves. Whatever form they took in the TADC becomes their new body. A version not managed by the AI.

Yup. A very unfortunate situation as some characters like Gangle or Zooble will struggle quite a bit, more mentally than physically though. Nevermind the fact everyone has to hide their appearances as people outside TADC will freak out.

Although these new bodies do bring some advantages. They're data based so anyone from TADC can jump in and out of electronic devices. Radios, computers, TVs, consoles, telephone/internet/radio wires, etc.

From there they can interact with the device. If it's a videogame then the person could act like a second player and make use of various functions open to them. Character Customizations is a way to change their appearance however it's temporary in the real world.

Anything from a program or game can only function a few times before poofing outta existence. It's best to manage usage unless someone wants to delve into multiple software for tools and disguises. Victims of TADC can get injured with their durability in the real world closer to humans aka not cartoon based unless their body is similar to said character type like Jax or doll type like Ragatha.

They need to go into a digital device specifically a game to recover. What happens if they do die is unknown. It can mean returning to TADC with the Faulty exit permanently locked from them or disappearing until nothing remains.

There is another option but you guys have to watch the show to know what it is. However it goes along with what Ragatha says in the trailer that something very bad can occur if someone reaches their breaking point. What happens is gonna be pretty ugly for everyone nearby.

Two exits that can lead to freedom but which pair of consequences can you handle? As one particularly famous saying goes. 'Be careful what you wish for.'

[spectraspecs-writes]

alright Specs give me a lesson on WiFi Standards

I can't wait to see the brilliance you'll share<3

-anon

Interesting choice, as this is the less interesting option. But if you insist /nm

You've most likely heard of Wifi 5 or Wifi 6, maybe even wondered about Wifis 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the fancy IT speak, these are lumped together with the number 802.11 (eight oh two dot eleven). There are a lot of them, but the ones that made the press are 802.11a, b, g, n, ac, and ax. All but n, ac, and ax are out of date, with n on the way out.

802.11a and 802.11b are sister standards. But I suppose first I need to say that Wifi communicates on a frequency of either 2.4 gigahertz or 5 GHz. The best way to think of these frequencies is like radio stations - each station is called a channel. There are a lot more non-overlapping channels at the 5 GHz range (non overlapping reduces noise and signal degradation), but the US government uses them so your signal gets less priority over, say, air traffic controllers. 2.4 GHz has fewer overlapping channels, but you're not fighting the government. As I recall, 5 GHz travels farther, but that isn't always necessary. If you're sitting right next to the router, for example, you don't need such a strong signal to get to your internet box.

802.11b was released shortly before 802.11a, and it is b that took hold. Once I give the numbers, you may find that confusing. 802.11a can transmit at a speed of 54 megabits per second in the 5 GHz frequency. 802.11b transmitted at 11 mbps in the 2.4 GHz frequency. Slower, but at a different frequency. So why did b win out? Because it got there first and was a lot cheaper than 802.11a.

5 years later, in 2003, 802.11g was ratified. It transmits at 54 mbps on the 2.4 GHz frequency. Because it's at that frequency, a device that is set for 802.11b - an older device, by definition - can communicate on an 802.11g network, and vice versa. The only problem is that the slowest device sets the speed, so it doesn't matter how great your network is - if your device can't take the speed, you're not going to get it. 802.11g also uses a different "language" to encode signals, in addition to the one that 802.11b uses. Since b can't understand the one that g uses, b devices can't tell if the router is busy, so the signals could get mixed up. This is solved again by, the slowest device sets the speed. The access point will revert to the language b understands, and ALL devices connected to it won't go any faster than 11 mbps. Not ideal, but reduces costs when a network is updated. So network administrators can choose either faster devices at a greater upfront cost, or spread that cost over a few years but suffer overall slow speed across the network.

We stuck with g for a good long while before 802.11n was introduced, under the name Wifi 4. 802.11n transmits at 600 mbps in theory, 300-450 in practice, at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, which means it's backwards compatible with 802.11a, b, and g. It gets that speed by being able to transmit more than one signal at a time, through a thing called MIMO (multiple in, multiple out - I say "meemo" but "my mo" is also acceptable.) That's mostly a fancy way of saying there are more antenna on an access point than just one. An 802.11n device can support up to eight antennas, with four going in and four going out.

In 2014, 802.11ac, or Wifi 5, was released, and was the first standard that used Gigabit ethernet. 802.11ac transmits at 6.9 gigabits per second (nice) in theory, 1.3 in practice, at 5 GHz. ac doubles the amount of antenna, and also lets up to four devices transmit on each antenna at a time. It also has a fancy little thing called beamforming, which means the signal goes in a straight line to the device, instead of being broadcast everywhich way.

Wifi 6, or 802.11ax, was released in 2019, and is still making its way across the world. 802.11ax goes at a max speed of 9.6 gbps at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. It also uses another encoding language, which means any devices on 802.11b, if those senior citizens are still around, are SOL. Which is fine - let grandpa rest. 802.11ax lets more devices connect to the router at once, and lets more devices transmit at once.

You regret choosing this one now, don't you. I much would have preferred to talk about motherboard connections - I don't have to have a textbook next to me for that.

[digitalskyweb24]

The Basics of Digital Marketing: A Comprehensive Guide

In our increasingly digital world, traditional marketing approaches have given way to a more dynamic and data-driven landscape known as digital marketing. With the vast array of online platforms and tools available, understanding the basics of digital marketing is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fundamental principles and strategies that underpin successful digital marketing campaigns.

What is Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing encompasses all marketing efforts that use an electronic device or the internet. It's an umbrella term that covers a wide range of online activities aimed at reaching and engaging a target audience. Unlike traditional marketing, which relies on print media, TV, or radio, digital marketing leverages the power of the internet to connect with potential customers.

Key Components of Digital Marketing

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): SEO involves optimizing your website and content to rank higher in search engine results. This organic traffic source is critical for visibility and long-term online success.

Content Marketing: Content is king in the digital realm. Creating valuable and relevant content helps attract and engage your audience. Blog posts, videos, infographics, and podcasts all fall under this category.

Social Media Marketing: Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to connect with your audience, promote your brand, and drive traffic to your website.

Email Marketing: Sending targeted emails to a list of subscribers can be an incredibly effective way to nurture leads and maintain customer relationships.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: PPC campaigns involve paying a fee each time someone clicks on your ad. Google Ads and Facebook Ads are popular PPC platforms.

Affiliate Marketing: Partnering with individuals or organizations to promote your products or services in exchange for a commission on sales generated through their efforts.

Influencer Marketing: Collaborating with influencers in your niche to reach their dedicated followers and build credibility.

Analytics and Data Analysis: Collecting and analyzing data from various digital marketing channels to understand user behavior and make informed decisions.

The Digital Marketing Funnel

A fundamental concept in digital marketing is the marketing funnel, which represents the customer's journey from awareness to purchase. The funnel consists of three main stages:

Top of the Funnel (TOFU): This is the awareness stage, where potential customers become aware of your brand or product. Content like blog posts and social media posts can attract users at this stage.

Middle of the Funnel (MOFU): At this stage, users are considering their options and researching more in-depth. Guides, case studies, and email newsletters can nurture leads in the middle of the funnel.

Bottom of the Funnel (BOFU): This is the decision stage, where users are ready to make a purchase. Product demos, customer reviews, and targeted offers are essential at this point.

Crafting Your Digital Marketing Strategy

To succeed in digital marketing, you must develop a well-thought-out strategy. Here's a simplified step-by-step process:

Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your digital marketing efforts, whether it's increasing website traffic, generating leads, or boosting sales.

Know Your Audience: Understand your target audience's demographics, interests, and pain points to create content and campaigns that resonate with them.

Choose the Right Channels: Select the digital marketing channels that align with your goals and where your audience spends their time.

Create Compelling Content: Develop high-quality, engaging content that addresses your audience's needs and interests.

Implement SEO Best Practices: Optimize your website and content for search engines to improve your organic visibility.

Leverage Paid Advertising: Use paid advertising campaigns strategically to complement your organic efforts.

Measure and Analyze: Continuously monitor your digital marketing performance using tools like Google Analytics and adjust your strategy based on data insights.

Iterate and Improve: Digital marketing is an ongoing process. Regularly review and refine your strategy to stay competitive and relevant.

Conclusion

Digital marketing is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that offers incredible opportunities for businesses and marketers. By understanding its fundamentals, you can harness the power of the internet to connect with your target audience, build brand awareness, and drive growth. Stay tuned to explore more advanced digital marketing concepts and strategies as you embark on your journey to online success.