#how gps antenna works
Explore tagged Tumblr posts
askgildaseniors · 6 months ago
Text
youtube
Learn how to teach your dog to drop it with this comprehensive dog training video! Discover step-by-step instructions on how to train your dog to drop it using positive reinforcement techniques. Whether you're working with a puppy or an adult dog, mastering the drop it command is essential for obedience training and ensuring your dog's safety. Watch as professional dog trainer Brett Endes demonstrates puppy training 101 tips and tricks, including how to use a tug toy effectively. Brett covers everything from dog training tips to professional insights on how to teach your dog to let go and improve their overall obedience. Perfect for anyone interested in puppy training or seeking dog training drop it command guidance. Start training your dog today and add the drop it command to your training toolbox!
🐶UNRIVALED FEATURES!🐶 CHECK OUT THE GAME-CHANGING FEATS OF THE NEW HALO COLLAR 3:
✅ New PrecisionGPS(™) Technology ✅ New Active GPS Antenna ✅ 24-hour Battery Life ✅ Auto-connect to Any Cellular Network Worldwide ✅ New Perfect Fit System ✅ Magnetic Charging Port ✅ New Colors: Orchid and Sunburst
28 notes · View notes
foone · 10 months ago
Note
i saw your post about GPS receivers and i was wondering how they work well for like. Aviation. my GPS receiver is SBAS and WAAS equipped. Does that happen to do something different from a phone receiver? or does it work similarly to cell towers
So those both work by having extra satellites with newer protocols (GPS was originally designed in 1973!)
They both transfer the data much faster/accurately, so your GPS receiver gets started fast by listening to the info from them and then combining it with the slow GPS satellite datastreams.
They're similarly passive, though. Your GPS unit doesn't need to transmit anything to pick up those signals. It just needs different decoding circuits and maybe an extra antenna.
44 notes · View notes
zmediaoutlet · 1 year ago
Text
ww: letters (3)
for the @wincestwednesdays prompt: radio
I figured out one benefit to you being gone: spent three hours on I-40 listening to an educational podcast, and I didn’t have to tell anyone to shut up or slap hands away from the tapedeck or even forcibly cover a mouth that wouldn’t stop telling me this was boring, and then suffer getting licked, which even with everything else we’ve done—that’s just gross, you know? So. That’s something.
Turns out all kinds of stuff counts as electromagnetic frequencies. Not just what we get from ghosts or what comes across the stereo but GPS and phones, too. All depends on the hertz being transmitted and what’s being used to receive it. People even used to get reception in those old metal fillings, with their whole body acting as an antenna. I guess that’s how angels must work when they’re in human bodies, right? The vessel receiving rays of light.
I’m going to have to re-listen to the part about how sound gets captured in the waves. Somehow, at just the right frequency, the mic captures one kind of wave and sends it to the tranceiver and that can travel all over the country, handed off quicker than you can think, so two people can be standing on opposite coasts and hear each other breathing. The waves dissipate eventually in the open air but we can catch them, reuse them, make them replay. In the old days the recordings would fray and tear apart but if you have something captured digitally you can keep it as clean as you want. So the sound appears fresh, every time, like the musician’s playing in the bar right in front of you. If you close your eyes you can almost pretend you’re there.
I have six saved voicemails. None of them are interesting.
Hey, you about done? I’m gonna swing by the liquor mart and then I’ll come pick you up. Text me if you’re knee-deep in granny panties and need another five minutes. Ha.
Dude, you have got to remember to charge your main phone. I’m calling your burner next but you know what? This is shame. This is a shame voicemail.
Sheriff says the husband’s got a clean alibi. Grab something for dinner when you’re done with the coroner, huh?
[muffled noise, then:] Oh—hey—look, I’m butt-dialing you. And you’re not answering? I can see that you’re standing right there. Look, it’s the principle—
Jody broke her ankle. Again. I told her you guys could be gimpy buddies. You better be taking a coma-nap on pain pills, pal. Home soon.
Why do you go to lame art movies immediately after doing laundry? Where the hell did you hide my socks?
A digital file downloaded onto my backup drives, played through speakers, transmits waves directly against the structure of my ear. Vibrations inside my head that traveled from years ago, from a thousand miles away, from a different location of the planet. Crazy to me that we treat it like something mundane. Like there isn’t something amazing happening, when I can close my eyes and the speaker makes electricity and magnetism and motion into you, tuned exactly as though you were standing five feet from me. With my eyes closed I can imagine it like that. Your phone to your ear, your face turned away, waiting for me to pick up. Transmitter, receiver. Your breath, before the call drops. Crisp and clear as the day I first heard them. As long as my eyes are closed it’s a miracle.
58 notes · View notes
nuxthefirst · 3 days ago
Text
Derad Network: The Crypto Project That's Taking Aviation to New Heights https://www.derad.net/
Hey Tumblr fam, let's talk about something wild: a blockchain project that's not just about making money, but about making the skies safer. Meet Derad Network, a Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) that's using crypto magic to revolutionize how we track planes. If you're into tech, aviation, or just love seeing Web3 do cool stuff in the real world, this one's for you. Buckle up-here's the scoop.
What's Derad Network?
Picture this: every plane in the sky is constantly beaming out its location, speed, and altitude via something called ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast). It's like GPS for aircraft, way sharper than old-school radar. But here's the catch-those signals need ground stations to catch them, and there aren't enough out there, especially in remote spots like mountains or over the ocean. That's where Derad Network swoops in.
Instead of waiting for some big corporation or government to build more stations, Derad says,"Why not let anyone do it?" They've built a decentralized network where regular people-you, me, your neighbor with a Raspberry Pi-can host ADS-B stations or process flight data and get paid in DRD tokens. It's a community-powered vibe that fills the gaps in flight tracking, making flying safer and giving us all a piece of the action. Oh, and it's all locked down with blockchain, so the data's legit and tamper-proof. Cool, right?
How It Actually Works
Derad's setup is super approachable, which is why I'm obsessed. There are two ways to jump in:
Ground Stations: Got a corner of your room and a decent Wi-Fi signal? You can set up an ADS-B ground station with some affordable gear-like a software-defined radio (SDR) antenna and a little computer setup. These stations grab signals from planes flying overhead, collecting stuff like "this Boeing 737 is at 30,000 feet going 500 mph." You send that data to the network and boom, DRD tokens hit your wallet. It's like mining crypto, but instead of solving math puzzles, you're helping pilots stay safe.
Data Nodes: Not into hardware? You can still play. Run a data processing node on your laptop or whatever spare device you've got lying around. These nodes take the raw info from ground stations, clean it up, and make it useful for whoever needs it-like airlines or air traffic nerds. You get DRD for that too. It's a chill way to join without needing to turn your place into a tech lab.
All this data flows into a blockchain (Layer 1, for the tech heads), keeping it secure and transparent. Derad's even eyeing permanent storage with Arweave, so nothing gets lost. Then, companies or regulators can buy that data with DRD through a marketplace. It's a whole ecosystem where we're the backbone, and I'm here for it.
DRD Tokens: Crypto with a Purpose
The DRD token is the star of the show. You earn it by hosting a station or running a node, and businesses use it to grab the flight data they need. It's not just some random coin to trade—it's got real juice because it's tied to a legit use case.The more people join, the more data flows, and the more DRD gets moving. It's crypto with a mission, and that's the kind of energy I vibe with.
Why This Matters (Especially forAviation Geeks)
Okay, let's get real-flying's already pretty safe, but it's not perfect. Radar's great, but it's blind in tons of places, like over the Pacific or in the middle of nowhere. ADS-B fixes that, but only if there are enough stations to catch the signals.Derad's like, "Let's crowdsource this." Here's why it's a game-changer:
Safer Skies: More stations = better tracking. That means fewer chances of planes bumping into each other (yikes) and faster help if something goes wrong.
Cheaper Than Big Tech: Building centralized stations costs a fortune. Derad's DIY approach saves cash and spreads the love to smaller players like regional airlines or even drone companies.
Regulators Love It: Blockchain makes everything transparent. Airspace rules getting broken? It's logged forever, no shady cover-ups.
Regulators Love It: Blockchain makes everything transparent. Airspace rules getting broken? It's logged forever, no shady cover-ups.
Logistics Glow-Up: Airlines can plan better routes, save fuel, and track packages like champs, all thanks to this decentralized data stash.
And get this-they're not stopping at planes.Derad's teasing plans to tackle maritime tracking with AlS (think ships instead of wings). This could be huge.
Where It's Headed
Derad's still in its early ascent, but the flight plan's stacked. They're aiming for 10,000 ground stations worldwide (imagine the coverage!), launching cheap antenna kits to get more people in, and dropping "Ground Station as a Service" (GSS) so even newbies can join. The Mainnet XL launch is coming to crank up the scale, and they're teaming up with SDR makers and Layer 2 blockchains to keep it smooth and speedy.
The wildest part? They want a full-on marketplace for radio signals-not just planes, but all kinds of real-time data. It's ambitious as hell, and I'm rooting for it.
Why Tumblr Should Stan Derad
This isn't just for crypto bros or plane spotters-it's for anyone who loves seeing tech solve real problems. Derad's got that DIY spirit Tumblr thrives on: take something niche (flight data), flip it into a community project, and make it matter.The DRD token's got legs because it's useful, not just a gamble. It's like catching a band before they blow up.
The Rough Patches
No flight's turbulence-free. Aviation's got rules out the wazoo, and regulators might side-eye a decentralized setup. Scaling to thousands of stations needs hardware and hype, which isn't instant. Other DePIN projects or big aviation players could try to muscle in too. But Derad's got a unique angle-community power and a solid mission—so I'm betting it'll hold its own.
Final Boarding Call
Derad Network's the kind of project that gets me hyped. It's crypto with soul, turning us into the heroes who keep planes safe while sticking it to centralized gatekeepers. Whether you're a tech geek, a crypto stan, or just someone who loves a good underdog story, this is worth watching.
Derad's taking off, and I'm strapped in for the ride.What about you?
2 notes · View notes
mariacallous · 2 months ago
Text
Above the bar at a small brewpub in Užupis, a hip neighborhood in Vilnius, Lithuania, hangs a portrait of a Madonna-like saint cradling a weapon—something between a rifle, a bazooka, and a 5G antenna.
The caption below reads: “Saint EDM4S.”
EDM4S—or Electronic Drone Mitigation 4 System—is a portable electronic-warfare weapon from Lithuania. Point the EDM4S at a hovering uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) and pull the trigger: The drone should lose contact with its operator and fall inertly from the sky.
Hundreds of EDM4S systems have been donated to Ukraine over the past two years. They are just one weapon in an unseen, and under-appreciated, battle for control of the electromagnetic spectrum. Powering this battle is a furious arms race. Ukraine and its allies on one side, Russia on the other. Both sides are trying to innovate better ways to spoof, jam, and disrupt enemy communications, particularly drones, while simultaneously working to harden their own systems against hostile signals.
This is electronic warfare. In late 2023, Kyiv identified winning the upper hand in this battle as one of its key priorities. With Russia steadily advancing across eastern Ukraine, the need to gain control of the electromagnetic space—and the skies—has only grown more important. Regardless of how this war unfolds in 2025, Ukraine has already changed electronic warfare forever.
Fighting to Electromagnetic Stalemate
Electronic warfare, or EW, has been a part of human conflicts for more than a century. Soon after radios were deployed to the battlefield, soldiers realized that sending bursts of static over a frequency could disrupt the enemy’s ability to communicate. But it wasn’t until World War II that EW really came into its own.
Early in WWII, the British were desperately trying to recapture control over their skies in the Battle of Britain. While British dogfighters grew steadily better at downing incoming Luftwaffe bombers, the Germans slowly moved their raids to the cover of darkness. This prompted a perplexing mystery for the British: How were the Germans so good at flying to their targets in the dead of night?
A young British scientist solved the mystery when he discovered a clue in the wreckage of a downed bomber. The plane’s landing assistance system, which used radio waves to measure the plane’s relative distance to the runway, had been improved so dramatically that it was being used as a rudimentary navigation device. Operators on the ground in Germany and occupied France would emit long, narrow bands of radio signals over British skies: The target factory or town could be found where the two beams coincided.
Armed with this information, the English raced to build their own radio and relay stations, broadcasting their own radio beams into the skies to confuse the incoming German pilots.
Thus began the Battle of the Beams. The Germans refined and upgraded its ability to broadcast and receive signals in British airspace, while the United Kingdom raced to detect and disrupt those signals. It set the pace of EW fights for a century to come.
Today, the electromagnetic space is much more complicated: Different types of signals are broadcast straight across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radar to GPS and GLONASS, to cellular signals. At any given moment, a soldier, UAV, fighter jet, or cruise missile could be sending and receiving a variety of different signals.
With that, militaries have raced to find new ways to jam, intercept, and even spoof those signals. One nation may issue new encrypted radios to its forces, prompting a rival country to develop more powerful radios to flood those channels with static. Recent decades have also seen radar and radio used to detect artillery launches and triangulate their exact position, allowing counter-battery systems to hit the source of fire. Fighter jets, in particular, have developed some of the most advanced onboard radio and radar systems for communications, EW, and counter-EW.
Throughout the Cold War, NATO and the Soviet Union were locked in a fierce battle to obtain even a marginal advantage over the other in this EW fight. That dynamic has driven some anxiety. A 2017 report commissioned by Estonia’s military took stock of Russia’s EW capabilities and warned that, should Moscow invade NATO’s eastern flank, it could likely knock out communications across a huge swath of the Baltics, thereby “negating advantages conferred on the Alliance by its technological edge.”
It wasn’t until Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 that the world got to see the extent of Russia’s EW prowess. And it was a dud.
“Russian EW was a no-show,” wrote Bryan Clark, director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute, in a July 2022 analysis for IEEE Spectrum.
Moscow had spent years planning for a major war with NATO, designing its EW systems to interfere with the onboard systems of advanced fighter jets and to jam the targeting computers of advanced ballistic missiles. Instead, it found itself in a war against fast-moving defenders making ample use of off-the-shelf UAVs.
Russia’s systems were “not very mobile, not very distributed,” Clark tells WIRED. Their relatively small number of big systems, Clark says, “weren’t really relevant in the fight.”
Moscow’s strategy assumed there would be a relatively static battlespace. Along the front, they would deploy the Infauna, a heavily armored vehicle that targets radio communications. Further out, around 15 miles from the front lines, they would send the Leer-3, a six-wheeled truck capable of not only jamming cellular networks but of intercepting communications and even relaying SMS to nearby cell phones. Even further out, from a range of about 180 miles, the fire-truck-sized Krasukha-4 would scramble aerial sensors.
“When you get close to the front, you get electronic weather,” Clark says. “Your GPS won’t work, your cell phone won’t work, your Starlink won’t work.”
This electromagnetic no-man’s-land is what happens when you “barrage,” Clark explains. But there’s a big trade-off, he says. Jamming across the spectrum requires more power, as does jamming in a wider geographic area. The more power a system has, the bigger it must be. So you can disrupt all communications in a targeted area, or some communications further afield—but not necessarily both.
Move Fast and Jam Things
Russia’s military was marred, early in the war, by bad communication, worse planning, and a general sluggishness in adapting. Even still, it had a big head start. “Unfortunately, the enemy has a numerical and material advantage,” a representative for UP Innovations, a Ukrainian defense tech startup, tells WIRED in a written statement.
So Ukraine developed two complementary strategies: produce a large volume of cheaper EW solutions, and make them iterative and adaptable.
Ukraine’s Bukovel-AD anti-drone system, for example, fits comfortably on the back of a pickup truck. The Eter system, the size of a suitcase, can detect the jamming signals from Russian EW systems—allowing Ukraine to target them with artillery. Ukrainian electronic warfare company Kvertus now manufactures 15 different anti-drone systems—from drone-jamming backpacks to stationary devices that can be installed on radio towers to ward off incoming UAVs.
When the full-scale war began in 2022, Kvertus had one product: a shoulder-mounted anti-drone gun, like the EDM4S. “In 2022, [we were producing] tens of devices,” Yaroslav Filimonov, Kvertus’ CEO told me when we sat down in his Kyiv offices this March. “In 2023 it was hundreds. Now? It’s thousands.”
“Our advantage is that we have many clever people and clever engineers, and we have our own research and development department,” Filimonov says. “Our reaction for different changes on the front line is very fast.”
That’s because Kvertus dispatches its staff to the front lines to see how things are working—or not. EW operators constantly send back reports on which parts of the spectrum are being bombarded by Russia, and which parts of the spectrum Russian forces are inclined to use. Military tech firm Piranha-Tech’s systems are now capable of downing drones from more than a kilometer away, from a height of roughly 500 meters.
UP Innovations was financed as part of Business Springboard, a government-led initiative to finance veteran-run businesses in Ukraine. Being veteran-run means they have firsthand knowledge of what their soldiers actually need. UP has been working on special helmet pads with fabric that works as a Faraday cage to protect the wearer’s radios from jamming.
“Today, every unit has specialists working with tactical radio electronic warfare devices,” Yuriy Momot, deputy CEO of Piranha-Tech, tells WIRED. “There is no operation that goes without the use of radio electronic warfare. As we talk, one of their anti-drone guns sits on the table between us. Just the day before, guns just like this one helped one unit shoot down a dozen enemy drones—including one carrying a grenade.
The early versions of these anti-drone guns caused some skepticism that they would ever be much use in the real world—Russian military analysts mocked them as cheap toys. That mockery has long since faded, however. In recent months, plywood shacks have been popping up on high-rise rooftops in Moscow and St. Petersburg. They house a couple of Russian soldiers, a shotgun, an assault rifle, and a Russian-made anti-drone gun.
But when it comes to defending themselves, Kyiv has opted for a very apropos solution: a decentralized, distributed EW solution.
For more than two years, Ukraine has faced an onslaught of missiles, drones, and glide bombs—all equipped with onboard communications and radar designed to overcome Ukraine’s air defense systems. In recent months, the Iranian-designed Shahed drones have been known to weave, deke, and loiter through Ukrainian skies, distracting and frustrating air defense systems.
To deal with this aerial threat, Kyiv developed Pokrova, a secretive mesh network of EW systems that was revealed earlier this year.
“It’s not one, not two, not three transmitters” that make up Ukraine’s electromagnetic force field, Oleksandr Fedienko, a Ukrainian politician who serves as deputy chairman of a parliamentary committee on digital transformation, wrote on Telegram earlier this year. “There are hundreds of thousands of devices that are installed throughout the country.”
Pokrova isn’t just jamming the Shahed navigation systems, but spoofing their signal. This allows Ukrainian EW operators to feed them new coordinates, gently bringing down the drones so that they can be analyzed and cannibalized for parts. In recent months, Ukraine managed to spoof the signals being sent to these drones—flying more than 100 back into Russia.
Fedienko promised that Ukraine was still racing to scale up the system even further. “It's only a matter of time when the rockets and missiles with which the Russians attack us will fly in the opposite direction,” he wrote.
EW isn’t completely foolproof. But it remains an incredibly promising defensive technology when layered on top of other anti-air systems.
Ukraine’s ability to scale up this domestic industry has put it toe-to-toe with Russia, once thought to have the most impressive EW program in the world. But Russia has learned and adapted too. It’s now a “cat-and-mouse game,” Clark says.
Beating EW
In a secret drone workshop in Kyiv, Yvan holds up a tiny chip. Installed on a small FPV drone, Yvan hopes this chip could overcome Russia’s EW efforts.
With these chips and two cheap antennas, Yvan’s drones are programmed to hop across the electromagnetic spectrum at a dizzying rate, as many as 25 times per second, in unison with its base station.
Yvan hopes that the link between the drone and its operator can move frequencies faster than Russian EW operators can jam the signal. If that works, it could keep these drones in the air significantly longer. AI is already being used to make this signal-hopping seem as random as possible. (Just as AI is being used to detect the hopping pattern in order to predict its next move.)
There are existing solutions to these problems, like controlled reception pattern antennas (CRPAs), which can tune out jamming signals. However, they can cost upwards of $30,000 per unit, meaning Ukraine simply cannot afford to acquire them at scale. So they’ve had to innovate. Yvan’s solution can be dispatched for just hundreds of dollars.
Ukraine first started sending drones deep into Russia in early 2023—with a brazen attack on the Kremlin itself. Then, one small drone exploded spectacularly over the Moscow sky. Since then, Ukraine has stepped up its efforts. In early September, Kyiv launched its most expansive drone attack on Russia since the beginning of the war: An estimated 158 drones descended on targets across the country, setting fires at oil refineries, power plants, and pipelines. Although most were downed, likely through more traditional air defense systems, the attack shows the limitations of Russia’s own EW defenses.
With this constant competition on the electromagnetic spectrum, defense companies are getting creative about how their drones travel.
“In the Western world, GPS always works. Here, GPS never works,” says Stepan, a Ukrainian defense executive. (WIRED is using only his first name for security reasons.) That’s why he’s been developing drones to operate without GPS—or its Russian equivalent, GLONASS. Instead, he employs the drones’ onboard cameras to conduct thermal imaging of the ground below, employing “pure math” to confirm its trajectory by checking terrain, landmarks, and waypoints. This is not entirely new: The US Tomahawk missile, for example, has used terrain mapping for decades. What’s novel is how quickly and nimbly Ukraine has been able to distribute this technology to its nascent drone industry.
Since speaking to Stepan in Kyiv in March, this strategy of terrain mapping has become more common on the battlefield. Artificial intelligence has helped augment how drones understand the land below. They’ve also introduced other kinds of strategies, such as using cell phone towers as landmarks to guide their trajectory—much like the Luftwaffe pilots used radio beams to guide their flight towards British cities.
“The newer systems are using a combination of GPS, terrain mapping, and electronic signal intelligence to figure out where they are and to make themselves more precise,” Clark says.
Ukraine is already coming up with new ideas about what it could achieve if its drones can penetrate deeper into Russia. One drone prototype is equipped with EW systems that could, if it lands in the right spot, wreak havoc on Russian radar, air defense, and communications systems.
Innovation isn’t just moving forward—it’s also looking backwards. One of the most ingenious innovations being deployed in Ukraine is the German-made HIGHCAT drone, and it’s surprisingly old school. A lightweight quadcopter, the drone comes with a 6-mile cable, providing a fixed link to its base station.
It’s not just uncrewed aerial vehicles that are targeted by EW: Ukraine has increasingly deployed land and naval drones to aid in its fight to recapture territory.
Drone manufacturer SkyLab has, despite its name, become known for its ground-based autonomous vehicles. Those land vehicles have been used to deliver artillery, carry wounded soldiers, and could even be used for demining efforts. At their secretive offices in Kyiv, Denys gestures to a stout four-wheel vehicle in the corner. He says SkyLab has been exploring everything from AI to lidar to help these devices find their way home, even in an electromagnetic barrage. (WIRED is identifying the executive with a pseudonym for security purposes.)
“What frequency and mode do I have to use in the next version? What cameras, what gimbals, what logistics, what batteries?” he says. “Now it’s six, maybe seven generations of this rover.”
Innovate or Die
The Battle of the Beams was on track toward an electromagnetic stalemate. As they continued to improve and pioneer their radio warfare technique, neither the British nor the Germans looked set to gain a meaningful advantage over the other.
Then Britain innovated. When the Bristol Beaufighter took to the skies in mid-1940, it adapted Germany’s innovation to create an early aircraft interception radar. By using radio signals to identify enemy planes in the dark skies, British pilots quickly began downing Luftwaffe bombers and took back control of its airspace. The Germans then abandoned the Blitz and redeployed most of their offensive air assets eastward.
England’s victory in the battle came, in large part, because it was capable of uncovering the secrets to Germany’s innovation and reverse engineering it.
That’s happening in Ukraine, too, in both directions. Filimonov says his company’s effort to stay one step ahead is always frustrated by the “rats”—those who are “gathering information and then sending this information to our enemy.” The longer Ukraine’s technological innovation remains a secret, the more effective it will be. On the other side, Piranha-Tech’s Momot says he is always racing to identify Russia’s technological leaps forward, then “developing a countermeasure before the enemy can start large-scale production.”
Late last year, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the erstwhile commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, wrote in a detailed paper that Ukraine had achieved “parity” with Russia on EW—but it needed superiority.
While Ukraine is iterating advantages, a real breakthrough may have to come from Washington.
The United States has transferred an enormous amount of equipment to Kyiv, but it hasn’t—yet—handed over the EW crown jewels. “Electronic warfare is one of those very, very closely held technologies for the US and its closest partners,” Mick Ryan, a veteran of the Australian military and an independent military analyst, tells WIRED. “We're going to have to change the paradigm on how we look at EW and how we share the technologies with other partners, if we want to beat the Russians.”
Clark agrees that the Pentagon is “holding back some of the most sophisticated capabilities,” but there are signs that has changed in recent months: When the American-made F-16 fighter jets arrived in Ukraine in August, the US announced it had upgraded the jets with advanced onboard EW systems.
“One F-16 with a reprogrammed pod won’t achieve air dominance alone, but it may give you a pocket of air superiority for a moment’s time to achieve an objective that has strategic importance and impact,” the director of the US Air Force 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing said in a statement.
More than 80 years after the Battle of the Beams, Ukraine has put a modern spin on the Bristol Beaufighter: drone-on-drone combat. Footage emerged last year of two drones duking it out over the front lines. In mid-April, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was briefed on a new drone capable of intercepting Russian helicopters and loitering munitions.
The world may soon see more of these drone dogfights. Igor, another defense executive (who WIRED is not identifying for security reasons) says his company has been working furiously on a drone designed to hunt and destroy Russian UAVs.
Igor’s anti-drone drone would be a “fire and forget” solution, he says, meaning the drone could loiter in the skies, using a suite of onboard sensors to target all incoming Russian drones. If perfected, it would bring the story of EW full-circle.
There’s one big technological problem with having these drones patrol the skies, Igor says. “You need to confirm that it’s not a bird,” he laughs. “You don’t want to make enemies with Mother Nature.”
2 notes · View notes
muckduckgoose · 2 years ago
Text
Jurassic Jumble Reboot Recap
((I delayed on this long enough. Here's a general concept of how the plotline of "Jurassic Jumble" would go in the DT17 universe with my Honker, featuring my takes on the characters Stegmutt and Dr. Fossil as well as the reboot versions of Darkwing and Gosalyn/Quiverwing, who I will be writing out the parts of myself.))
There's been a rash of computer components stolen across multiple parts of Saint Canard, with witnesses from every crime scene claiming to have been distracted by the sight of a giant figure stomping around just out of sight in the shadows, slipping away just before anyone can get on the scene and get a good enough look at it to see what it is. Those distractions had apparently been enough for an unseen party to slip in and grab the goods and then hightail it by the time anyone was looking again.
Honker working with WANDA manages to build up a solid hypothesis of what the unknown burglar may be attempting to build with the stolen parts and where they may strike next. Team Darkwing have a stakeout to catch the criminal(s) in the act. When something causes a ruckus outside, DW and LP go to confront the source while the kids stay behind to guard the module predicted to be the target.
While the adults end up confronting what they get just a good enough look at to identify as seemingly a bipedal stegosaurus before it runs off and loses them, someone unseen knocks out the kids with sleeping gas and has already made off with the module piece by the time they wake up. Darkwing, however, had planted a tracer on the module just in case. Honker, back at base, runs a GPS scan for the tracer and is shocked that it pings underground at the coordinates of the St. Canard Natural History Museum.
The team infiltrates the museum after hours, eventually finding the secret passage to an underground base and split up for clues. Gos and Honk end up finding a collection of artifacts, including one in the forefront held in a clear biohazard-marked container: a glowing blue piece of rock. Gosalyn immediately recognizes it as the missing piece of the Stone of What Was, one of numerous artifacts from FOWL's Library of Alexandria base that SHUSH failed to locate during the post-battle raid.
The two are caught by a large, talking bipetal stegosaurus. But as soon as he starts talking--both due to the familiar voice and the stegosaurus seemingly recognizing Honker and becoming awkward at seeing him there under these circumstances--Honker realizes that the anthropomorphic dinosaur is the museum custodian Mutt, whom he'd met a few months back during a visit with an elf friend from Duckburg. Upon being identified, Mutt claims that he goes by Stegmutt now, vaguely gesturing to his current form as the reason why.
A pterodactyl in a snug-fitting lab coat and relatively small square glasses appears behind Stegmutt, harshly chastising him for not locking away the intruders on the spot. Stegmutt, crumbling to the other dinosaur's authority, very reluctantly pushes the kids into a holding cell (virtually identical to the ones FOWL used in the Library of Alexandria) and locks them in with an apologetic look. Honker also recognizes the pterodactyl, as he was once the elderly chicken scientist named Dr. Barnabas Klykos, who corrects him by saying the Klykos is no more and identifying himself in dramatic fashion as Doctor Fossil. Both he and Stegmutt had apparently come in contact with the Stone Fragment of What Was while holding a piece of fossil; the latter accidentally and the former on purpose after seeing the effects.
Dr. Fossil proceeds to go into a big rant about how the scientific community scoffed at his dream of bringing humanity back to its prehistoric roots, yet he had everything he could've needed to make his vision a reality except a form of genetic bonding agent (The Stone Fragment of What Was, which he recently acquired on the black market from a former FOWL Egghead) and the proper relay antenna to broadcast the signal far and wide (just built from all the stolen parts). Just as he's boasting there's no one to stop him at this stage of his plan, cue the purple smoke bomb and an "I am the terror..." speech.
While the adults confront Dr. Fossil, Honker sympathetically reaches out Stegmutt, who he recognizes deep down doesn't really want any part in this. Stegmutt, however, feels he has no say in the matter, as Dr. Fossil seems to have convinced him he'll have nothing left outside of servitude to him, especially considering what he's now become. Honker, with Gosalyn quickly joining in, try to encourage him to find a better life for himself with people who respect him and his feelings, something that surprises and touches Stegmutt.
Dr. Fossil, however, quickly barks at him to come handle Darkwing and Launchpad, and Stegmutt quickly folds to his authority again. As he leaves to do that, Stegmutt looks back at the kids and assures them that, while Dr. Fossil maybe has been acting nuttier than usual lately, nobody's gonna get hurt too badly from this; people are just gonna become cool new prehistoric versions of themselves. But he's clearly trying to convince himself in the moment just as much.
As Stegmutt reluctantly fights back against the Masked Mallard and the pilot, Dr. Fossil rushes to the next room where his relay antenna is completed and carefully slots the Stone Fragment of What Was into its place before powering up the machine. Once the antenna powers up and connects to a satellite network above, random people all over are hit by the effects and start devolving into prehistoric versions of themselves.
The kids have a good view of what's happening from the vantage point of their holding cell, and Honker starts talking to Fossil as he runs his equipment over concerns that dinosaurs and such wouldn't exactly fit in with the current era. The mad scientist laughs it off by claiming that the current era is about at an end anyway. Humans are already priming their planet for an extinction-level event as it is with their various environmental crimes as deforestation and greenhouse gasses; the meteor scheduled to pass by will finish the job once the hacked satellite network draws it in.
Honker's horrified at what he spells out is Dr. Fossil's attempt to artificially generate a mass extinction-level event that'll kill off anyone that doesn't get affected by the devolution ray. Someone else is also horrified, as it turns out the fight between the two older ducks and the stegosaurus got close enough that Stegmutt heard everything. Stegmutt calls his mentor out on using him for such a cruel and genocidal scheme, but Dr. Fossil insults him back by saying the young janitor was clearly too stupid to see it for himself and that he has no life for himself away from him. Fossil also claims that it's too late to stop him anyway.
Feeling hurt and betrayed, Stegmutt challenges that notion by stepping aside to let DW and LP tackle him and then turns to smash the controls of the kids' holding cell with his tail, freeing them. Honker has just enough time to rush to the controls of the relay antenna to have the satellite network repel the meteor it had just latched onto and then reverse the effects of the outgoing devolution rays. Dr. Fossil is taken down, and SHUSH is called in to clean up.
While Darkwing and SHUSH works to accommodate for Stegmutt's living conditions, as he's effectively homeless due to Dr. Klykos having provided his apartment space (which probably wouldn't be able to accommodate a stegosaurus man anyway), the agency's scientists determine that while those affected by the ray could be returned to normal, physical contact with any part of the Stone of What Was resulted in what was (for the foreseeable future, as they were still studying the artifact) an essentially permanent transformation.
Team Darkwing comfort Stegmutt, who's feeling lost and unsure of his future now. Uplifted by their assurance that they'll help him find a place for himself, Stegmutt decides he wants to use his new dinosaur form for the greater good and help those in need. By the end of this adventure, there's a new hero in St. Canard. Stegmutt gets his superhero origin story, and Dr. Fossil gets jailtime.
11 notes · View notes
christanworkshop · 1 year ago
Text
Adding GPS to Flipper Zero Wifi Dev Board
Another day, another new project to tinker on. I decided to mod my official Flipper Zero Wifi Dev board to add a GPS module for wardriving functionality in Marauder. The NEO6Mv2 module cost me $3 so it's a cheap hack. You can find it on Aliexpress, etc. First, I hooked up the GPS module to Flipper and ran the NMEA GPS app just to check that the module is working properly, and indeed it was.
Tumblr media
The next step is soldering on some pins on the wifi dev board so that I can hookup the GPS.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
It's just 4 wires to hookup the GPS module, so it's a pretty simple mod. With that done, I ran Marauder > GPS Data > Stream to check that it's getting GPS feed.
Tumblr media
That's it, it works! I will have to redesign and 3D print a new case to fit the GPS and Wifi dev board together. I am also planning to mod the Wifi dev board to add an external antenna and micro SD card slot, so stay tuned.
If you want to try this mod out for yourself, here are some references below to get you started.
ESP32 Marauder: GPS Modification Flipper Zero Wardriving Rig: Upgrade Your WiFi
And this is how you can test the GPS module to make sure it's working. Flipper Zero GPS Receiver Module - NEO-6M If you enjoy stuff like this, check out our Makers & Hackers Exchange  Facebook group.
2 notes · View notes
st4rchasin · 9 days ago
Text
HOSHI ꩜
Tumblr media
Hoshi is an alien with green like skin and 2 star antennas. She lives on an extremely far away planet named aurorix. Hoshi is over 200 years old since time works differently for her planet. Hoshi job is to deliver packages or anything of that sort to different planets or even deliver to different galaxies of necessary. Her space pod can travel beyond light years with the advance technology on her planet, allowing her to travel at immense speeds beyond earth’s understanding. It was one specific mission, that would completely change her life though. Her manager was extremely sweaty and nervous while muttering the details of her mission, he avoided eye contact. Hoshi knew something was up before never said a word. She didn’t think much of it as she knew this mission was different but that was what made it exciting. She looking at the glowing orb with amazement, never delivering something so fragile and precious. Manager explaining how she cant let anything bad happen to the orb as the importance lands in the face of their entire solar system. Suddenly hoshi locked in and gave a reassuring “yes sir” to signify her seriousness of the matter.
She packaged the orb safely wondering what was its purpose and what happens to the solar system if it did possibly fall into the wrong hands? All of these questions running through her alien brain made her run cold and sweat through her palms. She gripped the usual steering while as her pod got ready to take off. Her eyes widened once she figured out where she was going. It wasn’t something familiar, her eyebrows furrowed as she tried to figure out where this place was even from. She shrugged it off and started up her pod. Time pass and she still wondering where this place was, did the gps get the wrong signal? Did she make a wrong turn? She couldn’t fully comprehend these questions before her space pod began to brake down and glitch out.
She forgot to charge it again. Damn. It started going out of control and she was panicking with every breath she took. She noticed she was crashing into the orbit of one solar system that she’s never seen before. A blue - greenish planet is the last thing she saw before she was knocked out by a piece of space debris hitting her space pod making her fly forward. Once she woke up she was badly bruised but still able to move. Coughing from all the smoke and stuff, she looked up and saw a blinding light. It was…someone’s kitchen light. She looked around, being in an unfamiliar environment. Soon later to gasp and the look of her space pod. Totally wrecked. How is she gonna get home now?
Tumblr media
Hoshi’s headcannons
Hoshi really like sweets. Back on her planet she owns a bakery, where her taste for sweets started 🛸
Hoshi have diffent alien blood then 80% of the aliens on her planet. 🪐
Hoshi is a sophomore in highschool. Earth wise. 🛸
Tumblr media
Hoshi’s appearance
Hoshi is 160 cm (5’4), she has green skin with pink neck long hair. Her eyes are blacked out, except for the eye ball. Being the color blue. It doesn’t mess up her vision though. She wears mostly normal cozy clothes, until she needs to go on a mission or go to school. Usually wearing space wear for missions and normal black uniform attire. She has 2 antennas, lying on the top of her forehead. Stars at the end that glow.
Tumblr media
Hoshi’s powers
She has telekinesis where she can move objects with her mind, she can even move humans. Another one of her abilities is called mimicry. Mimicry is the ability to shape shift into someone else. She has to be able to have seen this person before for the ability is work.
Tumblr media
0 notes
caseyfinest · 19 days ago
Text
**Title: *The Static Beneath the Skin*
Episode 1: *The Cassette Tape That Wasn’t Blank
It began with a cassette tape. Not the nostalgic, mixtape-from-a-lost-lover kind. This one showed up on the passenger seat of Dahlia’s car on a Tuesday, glistening wetly under the streetlight like it had been coughed up by the rain itself. The label, written in smeared red ink, read: *PLAY ME BEFORE YOU FORGET HOW.*
Dahlia didn’t own a cassette player. But when she got home, she found one anyway—a bulky, ash-gray boombox squatting in the center of her kitchen table, antennae bent like insect legs. It hummed faintly, though it wasn’t plugged in. The air smelled like burnt hair.
She pressed *play*.
The tape hissed. Then a voice, warped and guttural, as if the speaker’s throat had been lined with aluminum foil: *“Turn left where the road ends. Bring a knife. Not for them. For the static.”*
Thirty seconds of silence followed. Then, a wet *crunch*, like teeth biting into an apple full of maggots. The tape ejected itself.
Dahlia laughed. A prank. A weird, elaborate prank. But when she blinked, the boombox was gone. Only the tape remained, now speckled with what looked like mold—or insect eggs. That night, she dreamt of a payphone ringing in an empty field. When she answered, the voice from the tape whispered: *“You’re already late.”*
She woke to a scream. Not hers. The neighbors’? No—the sound was coming from her walls. A high, keening wail, trapped in the plaster. When she pressed her ear to it, the scream dissolved into static.
By dawn, Dahlia’s reflection had changed. Her left pupil flickered, pixelated, like a corrupted TV screen. She told herself it was fatigue. Stress. But when she drove to work, her GPS rerouted her down a highway she’d never seen, flanked by leafless trees clawing at a sickly green sky. The road *did* end—abruptly, at a concrete barricade spray-painted with the words **WRONG WAY BACK**.
Behind it stood a motel. The *Static Inn*, its neon sign buzzing like a trapped fly. Room 13’s door hung ajar. Inside, a man in a moth-eaten suit sat cross-legged on the carpet, surrounded by Polaroids. All of them showed Dahlia, asleep, with shadowy figures peeling back her skin like wallpaper.
“You’re here for the frequency,” the man said, smiling. His teeth were tiny analog TVs, each playing a different horror: a car crash, a drowning, a face pressed against glass. “But it’s already in you. Can’t you feel it?”
Dahlia fled. In her car, the cassette tape was playing again. The voice now sounded like her own.
*“Cut it out,”* it begged. *“Cut it out before it hatches.”*
She gripped the knife from her glovebox. The static in her pupil spread, tendrils snaking under her skin. She pressed the blade to her forearm—and froze. Beneath her veins, something *buzzed*.
The motel’s phone rang in her backseat. She answered.
The man’s voice: *“Too late. It’s in the blood now. Listen.”*
Dahlia heard it then—the hum. Not in her ears. In her bones. A thousand radio signals screaming through her capillaries. She raised the knife.
The tape player spat out one final command: *“Don’t scream. It loves it when you scream.”*
She plunged the blade into her wrist.
What came out wasn’t blood.
---
**End of Episode 1**
*What poured from Dahlia’s veins? Tune in next time… if you dare to check your own pulse first.*
Tumblr media
0 notes
myerseng · 22 days ago
Text
Unlocking the Future with Custom Antenna Design: Innovative Solutions for Optimized Connectivity & Performance
In today's interconnected world, where communication systems form the backbone of technological advancements, antennas are indispensable. Whether it's enabling your smartphone to receive signals, ensuring seamless connectivity for IoT devices, or facilitating complex satellite communications, antennas play a critical role. Among the many innovations in this field, custom antenna design stands out as a game-changer, offering tailored solutions to meet unique requirements in various industries.
Tumblr media
The Need for Custom Antenna Design
Off-the-shelf antennas, while cost-effective and widely available, often fall short when specific operational parameters or unique environments come into play. For example, a drone designed for agricultural surveys may require an antenna capable of long-range communication in remote areas, while a wearable health monitoring device demands a compact, low-power antenna optimized for body-area networks. This is where custom antenna design comes in, providing solutions that align precisely with performance, size, frequency, and environmental requirements, Low Noise Amplifiers.
How Custom Antenna Design Works
The process of custom antenna design begins with a thorough understanding of the application. Engineers consider factors like operating frequency, gain, polarization, impedance, bandwidth, and the physical constraints of the device. Advanced simulation tools and software like CST Microwave Studio or HFSS are often employed to model the antenna and predict its performance before moving to prototyping.
Material selection is another critical aspect. Depending on the application, materials like copper, silver, or even flexible conductive polymers may be chosen. Once the design is finalized, prototypes are rigorously tested in anechoic chambers to ensure they meet the required specifications.
Industries Benefiting from Custom Antenna Design
Telecommunications: With the advent of 5G and beyond, custom antennas are being designed to handle higher frequencies and increased data rates. These antennas ensure robust signal transmission and reception in dense urban environments.
Automotive: Custom antennas are integral to modern vehicles equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), GPS, and in-car entertainment. These designs ensure seamless connectivity even in high-speed or remote driving conditions.
Healthcare: In medical devices like pacemakers, wearable health trackers, or telemedicine equipment, custom antennas provide reliable communication while minimizing interference and energy consumption.
Aerospace and Defense: Satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and radar systems rely heavily on antennas tailored for extreme conditions, such as high altitudes, intense vibrations, or temperature fluctuations.
IoT and Smart Devices: From smart home appliances to industrial sensors, custom antenna designs enable compact, efficient, and low-power communication solutions.
The Future of Custom Antenna Design
As technologies like augmented reality (AR), autonomous systems, and space exploration continue to evolve, the demand for custom antennas is set to soar. Emerging materials such as graphene and metamaterials, along with AI-driven design optimization, are paving the way for even more efficient and innovative antenna solutions.
Moreover, sustainability is becoming a focal point in antenna design. Engineers are exploring eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes to reduce the environmental impact of these essential components.
Conclusion
Custom antenna design is not just a technological advancement; it’s a necessity in a world where tailored solutions are key to staying ahead of the curve. By addressing specific challenges and optimizing performance, these designs unlock possibilities across diverse industries. As innovation marches forward, custom antennas will remain at the forefront, shaping the future of communication and connectivity.
0 notes
ilearnedthistodaysblog · 2 months ago
Text
#1174 How do submarines navigate?
Tumblr media Tumblr media
How do submarines navigate? Submarines navigate using a mix of sonar, inertial navigation systems, and GPS. There are a lot of naval and civilian submarines in the world. The number of civilian submarines would probably be easier to work out than the number of military ones because most countries keep that number a secret. Or, they release information on how many old submarines they have, which is probably already public knowledge, but keep the number of new ones they have a secret. That makes sense because you don’t want to give your enemies fair warning of what submarines you are building. That being said, there are lists online, which may be reasonably close. That puts Russia and the US in joint first place with between 65 and 70 submarines each. Then comes China and, rather worryingly, North Korea is in fourth place with 35 submarines. North Korea has created nuclear weapons and wants to have a strong navy to provide a base to fire these missiles, rather than trying to feed their starving population. Modern nuclear-powered submarines could stay at sea forever if it wasn’t for the people on board who need supplying and changing. They can also stay underwater for months at a time because they can make oxygen from the seawater. So, how do they navigate in the deep dark sea? They do have GPS navigation, which can show them where they are on Earth by triangulating their position between three satellites. The problem is, the radio waves the GPS uses to work out where something is cannot penetrate water. Radio waves just bounce off water and head back into space. That means, GPS is only useful when the submarine has surfaced, and so is not much use as a navigation system. Underwater, submarines make use of an inertial navigation system and of sonar. An inertial navigation system is a good way of working out movement and modern smartphones have tiny versions inside of them. That is how your phone is able to count your steps. An inertial navigation system used to be analog, but these days they are digital. They consist of three accelerometers and three gyroscopes. The accelerometers can work out the speed of the vessel and the gyroscopes can work out how quickly the submarine is turning. There are usually three of them, but there can be more. There have to be at least three of them because all submarines can move in any direction. The accelerometers and gyroscopes are on the X, Y, and Z axis. They feed information to a computer, which can then calculate where they are. It does this by knowing the starting point and calculating speeds and how much and how fast they have turned along the way. The inertial navigation system is good, but it is only accurate to 150 hours. Small errors can creep in and there can be some uncertainty in where they are. The system has to be realigned by using GPS. The submarine will either have to surface or come close enough to the surface to put up an antenna. Submarines also use sonar to navigate. This isn’t much use in completely open sea, but it is useful when close to the seabed, objects, or other ships. Sonar works by sending out a sound wave and then calculating how long it takes to come back. By knowing the speed of sound in water, the onboard computer can work out how far objects are. It doesn’t work in the open sea because there is nothing for the sound wave to bounce off. One of the problems with sonar is that other submarines will be able to hear it. Submarines monitor for their own sonar, but they also have passive sonar, which is always listening for sounds in the sea. It will easily pick up the sound of another submarine’s sonar and give away its position. Submarines also use magnetometers and pressure sensors to navigate. The Earth has magnetic fields and by measuring these, the submarine can have some idea of where it is. A lot of animals also use these to steer and to navigate long distances. The pressure sensors tell the submarine its depth. As the pressure increases, the submarine is getting deeper. By combining all of these systems, the onboard computer for a submarine can work out pretty accurately where on Earth the submarine is and navigate it safely. And this is what I learned today. Try these: - #218 How deep can a submarine go? - #221 What is the difference between sonar and radar? - #40 How does GPS know where I am? - #557 How does a naval mine work? - #347 How did the Polynesians navigate? Sources https://timeandnavigation.si.edu/satellite-navigation/reliable-global-navigation/first-satellite-navigation-system/navigating-a-submarine https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Submarine_navigation https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/engines-equipment/submarine4.htm https://www.advancednavigation.com/tech-articles/inertial-navigation-systems-ins-an-introduction https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/submarines-by-country https://www.nti.org/analysis/articles/north-korea-submarine-capabilities Photo by Vitali Adutskevich: https://www.pexels.com/photo/submarine-in-the-harbor-14754974/ Read the full article
0 notes
dipnock · 3 months ago
Text
The Power of Asset Tracking Systems: Enhancing Business Efficiency and Security
In a world where assets are constantly on the move and business operations are increasingly complex, managing and tracking assets has become more critical than ever. Companies rely on a variety of assets, from tools and equipment to vehicles and inventory, to keep their operations running smoothly. However, without the right tools to track these valuable resources, businesses are at risk of inefficiency, lost productivity, and even financial loss.
Enter the Asset Tracking System—a technology-driven solution that brings transparency, accountability, and efficiency to asset management. In this blog, we’ll explore how asset tracking systems work, their benefits, and why every business should consider implementing one to protect and optimize its assets.
What is an Asset Tracking System?
An asset tracking system is a set of tools and technologies designed to track the physical location, status, and condition of assets in real time. These systems can monitor a wide variety of assets, including equipment, vehicles, tools, inventory, and more. By using technologies like RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), GPS (Global Positioning System), barcodes, and IoT sensors, businesses can get precise, up-to-date data on the whereabouts and condition of their assets.
Unlike traditional manual tracking methods, such as spreadsheets or paper logs, modern asset tracking systems automate the process and provide instant access to crucial data, helping businesses make informed decisions, save time, and avoid costly mistakes.
Key Technologies That Drive Asset Tracking Systems
1. RFID Technology
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one of the most popular methods of asset tracking. RFID tags consist of a small chip and antenna that emit radio signals, allowing them to be scanned by RFID readers. These tags store data about the asset, such as serial numbers, maintenance schedules, or asset types, and can be read without direct line-of-sight. RFID systems are especially useful in environments where high volumes of assets need to be tracked, such as warehouses and hospitals.
2. GPS Tracking
GPS technology allows businesses to track the real-time location of mobile assets like delivery trucks, field service vehicles, or construction equipment. GPS-enabled tracking systems provide precise location data, enabling companies to optimize routes, monitor asset usage, and ensure that high-value items are not lost or stolen.
3. Barcodes and QR Codes
Barcodes and QR codes are inexpensive and easy-to-implement tracking solutions. Barcodes store data in a machine-readable format, and with a simple scanner or smartphone, users can retrieve information about the asset. While barcodes require a line of sight and are primarily used for stationary items, they offer a cost-effective solution for basic asset management needs.
4. IoT Sensors
The Internet of Things (IoT) takes asset tracking a step further by enabling assets to communicate data regarding their condition, temperature, humidity, and movement. For example, a temperature sensor on a cold storage unit can alert managers if the unit goes out of the required temperature range, helping prevent spoilage or damage to sensitive goods. IoT sensors are commonly used in industries like logistics, pharmaceuticals, and food storage.
How Asset Tracking Systems Work
At the heart of an asset tracking system lies the process of capturing and interpreting data from tagged assets. Here's a simplified overview of how these systems operate:
Asset Tagging Assets are tagged with RFID chips, GPS trackers, or barcodes. Each tag contains a unique identifier or data related to the asset, such as its serial number, usage history, or condition.
Data Collection As assets are used, moved, or stored, the tracking devices collect data, such as location, condition, and movement. For example, RFID readers or GPS devices scan the tags, and this data is sent to a central database or cloud platform.
Real-Time Monitoring The system continuously updates the status and location of assets in real time. Businesses can monitor the movement and usage of assets, receiving instant alerts if something is wrong (e.g., if an asset is outside a designated area or requires maintenance).
Data Storage and Reporting All collected data is stored securely in a database, where it can be analyzed for patterns, trends, and insights. Companies can generate reports on asset usage, maintenance needs, and lifecycle, enabling them to make informed decisions about resource allocation.
Benefits of Asset Tracking Systems
The advantages of implementing an asset tracking system are undeniable. Here’s how these systems can drive significant value for businesses:
1. Increased Operational Efficiency
Asset tracking systems save time by eliminating the need to manually search for or audit assets. Employees can easily locate and track the status of assets in real time, speeding up workflows and reducing downtime. In industries like construction, where multiple tools and pieces of equipment are used across various sites, asset tracking ensures that nothing is misplaced, helping teams stay on schedule.
2. Reduced Risk of Theft or Loss
With asset tracking, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of theft or loss. GPS tracking and RFID-enabled alerts notify businesses when assets leave designated areas or are moved without authorization. This feature helps prevent expensive assets, such as laptops or construction machinery, from going missing, improving overall security.
3. Proactive Maintenance Management
Knowing when an asset is due for maintenance is key to maximizing its lifespan and minimizing costly repairs. Asset tracking systems help companies schedule preventive maintenance based on usage patterns and operating hours, keeping equipment running smoothly and preventing unplanned breakdowns.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making
Asset tracking systems provide a wealth of data that can help companies make smarter decisions. Insights from tracking data can be used to determine the best times to purchase new equipment, when to replace outdated assets, and how to allocate resources efficiently. In addition, historical data allows businesses to track asset performance over time, helping them identify inefficiencies or opportunities for improvement.
5. Improved Compliance and Reporting
For businesses in highly regulated industries (such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing), asset tracking systems simplify compliance. By automating the tracking and reporting process, companies can ensure that assets are correctly maintained and accounted for. This makes it easier to comply with industry standards and pass audits.
Real-World Applications of Asset Tracking
The versatility of asset tracking systems makes them valuable in a variety of industries. Here are some examples of how different sectors are leveraging this technology:
1. Healthcare and Medical Equipment
Hospitals and medical facilities use asset tracking to manage expensive medical equipment, such as infusion pumps, wheelchairs, and diagnostic devices. RFID tags ensure that the equipment is easy to locate when needed, and real-time monitoring helps ensure that sensitive equipment is in optimal condition, reducing downtime and improving patient care.
2. Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In logistics, asset tracking is used to monitor shipping containers, vehicles, and inventory throughout the supply chain. GPS tracking ensures that shipments arrive on time, while RFID helps track inventory levels, reducing stockouts or overstocking. By optimizing the movement of goods, businesses can improve delivery efficiency and reduce operational costs.
3. Construction
Construction sites often involve a large number of tools, equipment, and machinery scattered across different locations. Asset tracking allows site managers to keep track of every item, ensuring that equipment is always accounted for and properly maintained. It also reduces the risk of theft, which is a common concern in the construction industry.
4. Retail and Inventory Management
Retailers use asset tracking to keep tabs on inventory levels, from backroom stock to shelves. Barcodes and RFID tags help streamline stock management by providing instant access to stock data, ensuring that stores maintain optimal stock levels without overstocking or running out of items.
Implementing an Asset Tracking System: What to Consider
While asset tracking systems offer significant benefits, businesses should consider the following steps when implementing a solution:
Define Asset Tracking Objectives Identify the assets you need to track and the specific goals you want to achieve. Are you focusing on mobile assets like vehicles or stationary assets like equipment? Having clear goals will help you choose the right system.
Choose the Right Technology Based on your needs, select the appropriate technology. Whether it's RFID, GPS, or IoT sensors, ensure that the system aligns with your business operations and asset requirements.
Integrate with Existing Systems Integrate the asset tracking system with other software tools you’re already using, such as inventory management systems or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. This integration ensures that all asset data is centralized for easy access and analysis.
Train Your Team Ensure that employees are trained on how to use the asset tracking system effectively. Training helps optimize the system’s use and ensures that employees can take full advantage of its features.
Conclusion: Unlocking the Value of Your Assets
In today’s competitive business environment, staying organized and efficient is key to success. Asset tracking systems provide businesses with the tools to not only keep track of their assets but also enhance their overall productivity, security, and decision-making capabilities.
By adopting an asset tracking system, businesses can gain greater control over their assets, reduce costs, improve asset lifespan, and ensure that operations run smoothly. Whether you’re in healthcare, construction, logistics, or retail, the right asset tracking solution can unlock significant value and help your business thrive in an increasingly asset-driven world.
0 notes
eteily4 · 4 months ago
Text
Understanding Frequency Compatibility in Rubber Duck Antennas
When selecting an antenna for wireless communication, whether for a handheld radio, GPS device, or wireless router, frequency compatibility is an important element to consider. Understanding how frequency impacts performance is critical when using rubber duck antennas to ensure you get the best signal strength, range, and dependability out of your device.
Rubber duck antennas are widely employed in portable communication equipment, including walkie-talkies, GPS units, drones, and wireless routers. These compact, flexible antennas provide a reasonable mix between durability, portability, and signal coverage. However, their efficiency is highly dependent on how well they are tuned to specific frequency ranges.
In this article, we'll look at how frequency compatibility works with rubber duck antennas, why it's important, and how to select the proper antenna based on the frequency range of your communication device.
What is Frequency Compatibility in Antennas?
Every antenna is engineered to perform optimally within a specified frequency range—the electromagnetic waves used to transmit and receive data. Different wireless communication systems (e.g., radio, GPS, Wi-Fi) use different frequency bands, and each antenna must be designed to perform optimally within those bands.
A signal's frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz), which is sometimes abbreviated as kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), or gigahertz. For example, a radio running in the VHF (Very High Frequency) band may operate between 30 MHz and 300 MHz, whereas a Wi-Fi device may function within the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. Each frequency band has unique propagation characteristics and ranges, which influence antenna design and performance.
Frequency compatibility refers to an antenna's ability to handle signals within the frequency range for which it was intended. If the antenna is mismatched to the operating frequency, its performance may suffer, resulting in low signal intensity, greater interference, and shorter range.
How Rubber Duck Antennas Are Designed for Frequency Compatibility
The rubber duck antenna is often a monopole antenna designed to be one-quarter the wavelength of the frequency it works at. The antenna's size and physical properties are directly tied to its operating frequency, as the antenna must resonate at that frequency to transmit and receive signals efficiently.
Wavelength and Antenna Size The relationship between wavelength (the length of a wave in one cycle) and frequency is inverse. That is, higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths, while lower frequencies have longer ones.
λ=f/c
Where:
λ = Wavelength (in meters)
c = Speed of light in a vacuum (approximately 300,000,000 meters per second)
f = Frequency (in Hz)
Why Frequency Compatibility Matters for Rubber Duck Antennas
Efficient Signal Radiation: The rubber duck antenna performs best when it is resonant with the operating frequency. If the antenna's length does not match the wavelength of the signal, it will be unable to properly emit or receive signals. Mismatched frequencies can result in poor performance, such as restricted range, low signal strength, or excessive levels of interference.
Impedance Matching: Frequency compatibility guarantees adequate impedance matching between the antenna and the device. Impedance is the resistance to the flow of alternating current (AC), which is important in determining how successfully signals are transmitted between the antenna and the radio device. If the antenna is not properly matched to the device's impedance, signal reflection will occur, resulting in a loss of power and efficiency.
Signal Range and Coverage: Using an antenna that is compatible with the appropriate frequency range guarantees that your communication device functions properly over the specified range. Rubber duck antennas, for example, are used by two-way radios operating in the VHF or UHF bands to provide clear communication over long distances. A frequency mismatch can significantly reduce the effective range of transmission.
Interference reduction is another advantage of frequency compatibility. When an antenna is set to the correct frequency, it performs better at filtering out undesirable signals and reducing cross-channel interference. If the antenna is off-frequency, it may unintentionally take up noise or signal interference from adjacent frequencies.
Common Frequency Bands for Rubber Duck Antennas
​Rubber duck antennas are commonly utilized across various frequency bands for a variety of purposes. Understanding the common frequency bands can allow you to better match your rubber duck antenna to the device you're using.
VHF ("Very High Frequency"):
Frequency range: 30-300 MHz.
Common applications include VHF radios, two-way radios, amateur (ham) radios, maritime communication, and aircraft.
Rubber Duck Application: Many handheld two-way radios use rubber duck antennas intended for VHF bands, which provide clear communication over short and medium distances.
UHF (ultra-high frequency):
Frequency Range: 300 MHz to 3GHz
Common applications include UHF radios, mobile phones, wireless microphones, Bluetooth devices, and GPS.
Rubber Duck Application: UHF rubber duck antennas are commonly employed in communication equipment requiring shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies, such as walkie-talkies and wireless microphones.
Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz band):
Frequency range: 2.4 to 5 GHz.
Common applications include Wi-Fi routers, wireless networking, Bluetooth, and IoT devices.
Rubber Duck Application: Rubber duck antennas for Wi-Fi typically operate in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency bands and are used in wireless routers to provide dependable wireless access in households and businesses.
Global Positioning System (GPS):
Frequency range: 1.1-1.5 GHz.
Common applications include GPS devices, drones, and cars.
Rubber Duck Application: Rubber duck antennas for GPS systems work in a small frequency range, capturing signals from satellites for navigation reasons.
ISM Bands (industrial, scientific, and medical):
Frequency range is typically 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.8 GHz.
Common applications include wireless communication, RFID, Bluetooth, and Zigbee networks.
Rubber Duck Application: Rubber duck antennas developed for ISM bands are used in a variety of wireless communication devices, including Bluetooth speakers, remote controls, and Internet of Things devices.
Choosing the Right Rubber Duck Antenna for Your Device
When choosing a rubber duck antenna for your device, check sure it is compatible with the communication system's frequency range. Here are a few things to remember:
Check the frequency range of your device. Always check the frequency range of your communication device. Whether it's a radio, router, or GPS unit, each gadget will be built to operate inside a specified frequency range.
Antenna Length: The length of the rubber duck antenna is usually a good indication of the frequency it is designed for. In general, a shorter antenna is required for higher frequencies. For example, a rubber duck antenna for 2.4 GHz will be substantially shorter than one for 100 MHz.
Bandwidth: Some rubber duck antennas are intended to support various frequencies within a given range. If your equipment uses numerous frequency bands (for example, a multi-band radio), you may want an antenna that can cover all of them.
Impedance Matching: For maximum performance, make sure the rubber duck antenna is impedance matched to the device. Most consumer-grade antennas are 50 ohms, but always verify the specifications.
Conclusion
Frequency compatibility is crucial for any antenna, including the rubber duck antenna. You may increase signal strength, eliminate interference, and improve communication dependability by ensuring that your antenna operates within the proper frequency range. Understanding the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and antenna design will allow you to make the best decision when choosing rubber duck antennas for your portable communication devices. Whether you're using a two-way radio, GPS system, or wireless network, selecting the correct antenna based on frequency compatibility is critical for reliable wireless connection.
0 notes
car-transport-services-pune · 4 months ago
Text
Best Car Transport Services in Pune: A Guide to Safe and Reliable Vehicle Relocation
Pune, a city known for its growing tech and educational hubs, is home to people frequently relocating for work, studies, or family reasons. Finding a trusted car transport service in Pune is essential for a stress-free moving experience, ensuring that your vehicle arrives safely and on time. This guide provides an overview of the best car transport services in Pune, the types of transport options available, cost factors, and helpful tips to make the process smooth and efficient.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Car Transport Service in Pune
Using a professional car transport service saves time, effort, and potential damage to your vehicle:
Secure Transit: With trained drivers and secure handling processes, professionals ensure that your car is safely loaded, transported, and unloaded.
Insurance Protection: Reputable services offer insurance for added security, so you’re protected in the event of any unexpected incidents.
Convenience: With professional services handling the details, you’re free to focus on other aspects of your move.
Types of Car Transport Services Available in Pune
Pune has various transport options to suit different budgets and vehicle protection needs:
Open Car Transport: This is the most common and affordable option, where cars are transported on an open trailer. It’s ideal for standard vehicles but leaves them exposed to weather and road conditions.
Enclosed Car Transport: With enclosed trailers, this option provides full protection from weather, dust, and debris, making it ideal for luxury or vintage vehicles.
Door-to-Door Service: Many transport providers offer door-to-door service, picking up and delivering your car right at your doorstep, which is convenient but may be more expensive.
Terminal-to-Terminal Service: For a budget-friendly option, terminal-to-terminal service involves dropping off and collecting your car from designated terminals.
How Much Does Car Transport in Pune Cost?
Car transport costs vary depending on the distance, vehicle size, and type of transport chosen. Here’s an estimated cost breakdown:
Within Pune: Local transport can range between ₹3,000 to ₹7,000.
Pune to Nearby Cities (e.g., Mumbai, Nashik): Rates are usually between ₹7,000 and ₹12,000.
Long-Distance Transport (e.g., Delhi, Bangalore): Costs for interstate transport can range from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, depending on the transport type.
Keep in mind that open transport is typically 30-50% cheaper than enclosed transport.
Tips for Choosing the Best Car Transport Service in Pune
To ensure you select the best provider, consider these tips:
Compare Quotes: Contact multiple companies to get quotes and compare prices based on the services provided.
Check for Licenses and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed, and ask about insurance coverage to protect your vehicle during transit.
Read Reviews and Testimonials: Customer feedback gives insight into a company’s reliability, handling, and punctuality.
Ask About Tracking Options: Many companies offer GPS tracking for real-time updates, providing peace of mind during transport.
Preparing Your Car for Transport: Key Steps
Before handing over your car, follow these steps for a smooth transition:
Document Pre-Existing Damage: Take photos and note any existing scratches, dents, or damage on your vehicle.
Remove Personal Items: Transport companies generally require all personal items to be removed from the car.
Reduce Fuel Level: Keep the tank about a quarter full to reduce weight.
Disable Alarms and Antennas: Prevents any unnecessary triggering or damage during transit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to transport a car from Pune to another city? A: Delivery times vary based on the destination but typically range from 3 to 10 days for interstate moves.
Q2: Is insurance necessary for car transport? A: While some services include insurance, it’s wise to check coverage details or consider purchasing additional coverage for added protection.
Q3: Can I leave personal items in my car during transport? A: Most companies advise removing all personal belongings as they’re typically not insured, and keeping them in the car may incur additional fees.
Conclusion
Selecting the best car transport service in Pune depends on your budget, vehicle protection needs, and preferred convenience level. Whether you’re moving within Pune or to another city, reliable car transport companies offer a range of solutions for safe and efficient relocation. With the right provider, you can ensure your vehicle’s journey is as smooth as your own. Safe travels!
0 notes
Text
Best Car Transport in Bangalore: A Comprehensive Guide to Hassle-Free Vehicle Relocation
Bangalore, known as India’s Silicon Valley, is a bustling hub with people frequently moving in and out for work, studies, and family. With the rising need for reliable car transport services, finding the right car transport company in Bangalore has become essential. This article is tailored to help you understand the factors influencing car transport choices, costs involved, and tips for a safe car relocation. Let’s dive in!
Why Opt for Professional Car Transport Services in Bangalore?
Relocating a car, especially over long distances, can be challenging without professional help. Here are key reasons why hiring a reliable car transport service is beneficial:
Safety: Professional transport services ensure that your vehicle is securely loaded and transported, reducing the risk of damage.
Convenience: Avoiding the need to drive long hours means you can save time and energy while focusing on other aspects of relocation.
Insurance Coverage: Reputable car transport services often include insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected.
Types of Car Transport Services Available in Bangalore
When choosing a car transport service in Bangalore, it’s essential to know the options available:
Open Car Transport: An affordable option, open car transport involves transporting your car on an open carrier. While it’s cost-effective, there is a risk of exposure to weather conditions.
Enclosed Car Transport: For added protection, enclosed transport is a preferred choice. Though pricier, it shields your car from dust, weather, and road debris.
Door-to-Door Service: Many companies offer door-to-door service, where they pick up your car from your current location and deliver it to your new address. This option is ideal for convenience.
How Much Does Car Transport in Bangalore Cost?
Several factors influence the cost of car transport services in Bangalore:
Distance: Longer distances typically mean higher transportation costs.
Type of Transport: Enclosed transport is generally more expensive than open transport.
Vehicle Size and Model: Larger or high-end vehicles may incur additional charges.
Seasonal Demand: Peak seasons, such as festivals or year-end, may increase the cost due to high demand.
On average, transporting a car within the city may range from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000, while interstate transport can go up to ₹15,000 or more. It’s advisable to compare quotes from multiple companies to get the best deal.
Top Tips for Choosing the Best Car Transport Service in Bangalore
Research the Company’s Reputation: Look for reviews and ratings online to check the company’s track record.
Verify Insurance Coverage: Always ensure the transport service provides comprehensive insurance for your vehicle.
Check for License and Certifications: Confirm that the company is licensed and certified for car transportation.
Inquire About Tracking Options: Some companies offer real-time tracking, which can give you peace of mind during transit.
Preparing Your Car for Transport: A Quick Checklist
Before handing over your vehicle to the car transport company, take these precautionary steps:
Inspect for Damages: Document any existing scratches, dents, or damages with photos.
Remove Personal Belongings: Transport companies usually advise removing personal items for safety.
Reduce Fuel Level: Keep the fuel tank around 25% full to reduce weight and costs.
Disable Alarms and Antennas: This prevents any unnecessary triggering during transit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to transport a car from Bangalore to another city? A: Typically, it may take anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on the destination and route conditions.
Q2: Can I keep personal items in the car during transport? A: Most companies recommend removing personal items for safety and insurance reasons.
Q3: How do I track my car during transit? A: Many companies offer GPS tracking, allowing you to monitor the vehicle’s location in real time.
Conclusion
Choosing the best car transport in Bangalore doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of research and preparation, you can ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination safely and on time. By considering factors like service type, cost, and company reputation, you can select the best car transport service to meet your needs. Safe travels!
1 note · View note
christanworkshop · 1 year ago
Text
DIY: GPS Backpack for Flipper Wifi Dev Board
Tumblr media
Having experimented with adding a GPS to the Flipper Zero Wifi Dev Board previously, I finally settled on a backpack layout which allows the ceramic antenna to be position right on top for the best reception. I started with a 4cm x 6cm prototype board which I cut into two pieces and soldered them together using right angle header pins, followed by adding 8 double row header pins. These 8 double row header pins will attach to the back of the Wifi Dev Board.
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
Next is to solder the GPS module into place and connect the required pins as listed below.
GPS -> Wifi Dev Board VCC -> 3V3 RX -> IO21 TX -> IO9 GND -> GND
I am using the ublox NEO-6M module (GY-GPS6MV2) which you can get from places like Aliexpress for less than USD3.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Finally, make a small hole on the top prototype board and insert the antenna cable and connect it to the GPS module. Use some double sided foam tape to stick the antenna to the top.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
That's it for the GPS module. Now we need to solder on the female header pins to the Wifi Dev Board. We can now securely attach the GPS module to the Wifi Dev Board.
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
With everything tested and working, we can move on to designing a case for the GPS module to give it some protection and make it look like a finished product. I printed the case on my old Snapmaker 2.0.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Here’s how it looks like attached to the WiFi Dev Board.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Having completed this build, I have to admit I am not too happy with the way the WiFi Dev Board sticks up from Flipper Zero. This layout makes the whole thing kinda delicate and the board don’t feel very secure, especially with both Flipper and the board being in cases that lessens the amount the pins stick into the holes. Now, I am thinking about redesigning the entire thing again .. Haha.
1 note · View note