This short article by John Horgan for Scientific American is the lead-in to some lively responses. While some are complaining Horgan short-changed all the work done on DNA and RNA in the last two decades, he's right in saying there is still (and probably always will be) debate on exactly what happened billions of years ago. The recent trend is to suggest the simpler RNA gave rise to DNA, but it turns out RNA is unlikely to arise by itself either. We come back to this: life is wonderful.
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Monday, February 28, 2011
Chinese doctor dedicates himself to saving new snake
In 1984, doctor Chen Yuanhui treated an old man for snakebite and was curious when the man described the snake. It wasn't one he or anyone else with a scientific background had ever heard of. It was five years before he found someone who had captured a group of what are now called the Mangshan pit viper. Chen devoted his life to studying and protecting the endangered species. He kept seven in his home at one point. The local people, some of whom have a totem apparently based on the large green viper, appreciate him so much they commissioned a statue of the doctor and his "patient."
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Thailand group reports 10 new lizards
The environmental preservation group Thailand Nature Explorer presented a varied and colorful group of 10 new lizard species to the public, emphasizing how these finds demonstrated the nation's diversity along with the need for quick protection of new species. The lizards were given what to the Western ear are exotic names in addition to their scientific ones. For example, a well-camouflaged rough-skinned brown species was christened Jing Jok Niew Yao Khlong Nakha (Cnemaspis vandeventeri). This article includes photos of all 10 species.
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Annoucning the newest bird species
The bird is Mentocrex beankaensis, a colorful rail from the Beanka Forest of Madagascar. Researchers from the Field Museum collected it during an expedition led by Steve Goodman. Neil Block said the bird wasn't entirely new to locals or researchers, but it was hard to collect a specimen for a formal description. “This bird they’ve known about for decades, but no one has been able to go find it and get a specimen of it. It’s not a common thing at all, and it’s really hard to find.”
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Prof reports 15 new fish species in US
They are not all confirmed yet, but I thought this university press release was interesting. One ichthyology professor, Austin Peay State University's Dr. Rebecca Johansen, is reporting that she and her students have gathered evidence of up to 15 new species from the southeastern U.S. Wouldn't you think that was an area where all the vertebrates are known? It's a good reminder that we rarely know the natural world as completely as we think we do.
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Understanding List Query Throttling Limits in SharePoint 2010
By now, most SharePoint developers will have come across the list query throttling settings in SharePoint 2010. Essentially, farm administrators can impose limits on the number of items returned by list queries, in order to protect the performance of the farm as a whole. Limits are applied on a per-Web application basis and are typically managed through the Web application settings in Central Admin.
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So far, so good. The concepts of query throttling are well documented, and the rationale will be obvious to anyone who has seen a SharePoint environment grind to a halt under heavy-handed list queries. (For a good explanation of query throttling, together with information on how you can avoid hitting the limits through careful indexing, take a look at Query Throttling and Indexing by the patterns & practices team.) However, it's not always entirely clear how these settings are applied.
First of all, "administrators" is a loose term. Let's clarify who qualifies as "auditors and administrators" for the purposes of these settings. Site collection administrators do not qualify. Farm administrators do not qualify. The only people who qualify are users who have specific permission levels assigned at the Web application level. Specifically, the policy level assigned to the user must include the Site Collection Administrator or the Site Collection Auditor permissions, as shown below.
Now for the bit that took me a little longer to grasp. What does the object model override actually do? Firstly, it doesn't allow you to submit database queries that hit an unlimited number of rows in the database. Secondly, it doesn't change the list view threshold for regular users at all. All the object model override does is allow our auditors and administrators, as defined by the Web application user policy, to submit queries at the higher threshold value. In other words, if you don't use the object model override, auditors and administrators are stuck with the same standard list view threshold as everyone else.
To dig a little deeper into how these thresholds are applied, I provisioned a basic list and used a feature receiver to add 10,000 items. This puts me nicely between the lower threshold and the upper threshold. Next, I created a Web Part that attempts to retrieve all the items from the list. The core code is as follows:
SPWeb web = SPContext.Current.Web;
SPList list = web.Lists["BigList"];
SPQuery query = new SPQuery();
query.QueryThrottleMode = SPQueryThrottleOption.Override;
SPListItemCollection items = list.GetItems(query);
litMessage.Text = String.Format("This list contains {0} items", items.Count);
The important bit is the 4th line down:
query.QueryThrottleMode = SPQueryThrottleOption.Override;
The SPQueryThrottleOption enumeration has three values: Default, Override, and Strict. If you use the default value, the standard list view threshold applies to all users except local server administrators, who are not bound by either threshold. If you set the query throttle mode to Override, users who have the required permissions in the Web application user policy can query at the higher "auditors and administrators" threshold. Local server administrators remain unbound by either threshold. Finally, if you set the query throttle mode to Strict, this closes down the local server administrator loophole and the standard list view threshold applies to all users.
The following table shows which threshold applies to which users for each of the SPQueryThrottleOption values:
| Type of user | Default | Override | Strict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Site member | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Site owner | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Site collection admin | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Web app policy: site collection admin | Standard | Higher | Standard |
| Web app policy: site collection auditor | Standard | Higher | Standard |
| Farm admin | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Local server admin | Unlimited | Unlimited | Standard |
Finally, I found an interesting quirk for local server admins. The list view threshold exemptions for local server administrators apply only to users who are explicit members of the Administrators group on the local server. For example, domain admins are implicit members of the local Administrators group by virtue of their membership of the Domain Admins group. However, the standard list view threshold applied to my test domain admin account.
I hope this helps to clarify things for anyone else who's confused by list view thresholds. If you want to know more, Steve Peschka's blog is the best source of information I've seen in this area.
Cross-posted from Jason Lee's Blog
Cree expands broadest portfolio of lighting-class LEDs optimized for distributed illumination
DURHAM, USA: Cree Inc. has announced the commercial availability of the XLamp ML-B LED. Designed for quarter-watt operation, the XLamp ML-B LED brings lighting-class performance to distributed lighting applications where the light source is visible, such as panel lights and LED-based fluorescent tube replacements.
Lighting manufacturers have tried to achieve a uniform lighting appearance by placing many low-power LEDs in close proximity under a diffuser. This use of typical low-power LEDs will not enable manufacturers to meet rigorous ENERGY STAR requirements or customer's expectations. In contrast, Cree ML-B LEDs are designed to last 50,000 hours and to provide the lighting-class levels of efficacy, thermal resistance and reliability that can enable ENERGY STAR®-qualified fixtures.
“The innovative ML-B LED delivers lighting-class performance with the smooth, uniform appearance that lighting manufacturers want for distributed lighting applications,” said Paul Thieken, Cree director of marketing, LED components. “The ML-B LED provides the right balance of lumen output, footprint, efficacy and value for direct-view lighting.”
The XLamp ML-B LED delivers luminous flux up to 30 lm at 80 mA in cool white (5000K) and up to 24 lm in warm white (3000K). The ML-B LED shares the same footprint and package with the XLamp ML-E LED, and like the ML-E, provides uniform color over angle and a 120 degree viewing angle.
Read More >>
Lighting manufacturers have tried to achieve a uniform lighting appearance by placing many low-power LEDs in close proximity under a diffuser. This use of typical low-power LEDs will not enable manufacturers to meet rigorous ENERGY STAR requirements or customer's expectations. In contrast, Cree ML-B LEDs are designed to last 50,000 hours and to provide the lighting-class levels of efficacy, thermal resistance and reliability that can enable ENERGY STAR®-qualified fixtures.
“The innovative ML-B LED delivers lighting-class performance with the smooth, uniform appearance that lighting manufacturers want for distributed lighting applications,” said Paul Thieken, Cree director of marketing, LED components. “The ML-B LED provides the right balance of lumen output, footprint, efficacy and value for direct-view lighting.”
The XLamp ML-B LED delivers luminous flux up to 30 lm at 80 mA in cool white (5000K) and up to 24 lm in warm white (3000K). The ML-B LED shares the same footprint and package with the XLamp ML-E LED, and like the ML-E, provides uniform color over angle and a 120 degree viewing angle.
Curve Dental Demos Imaging & Image Storage
While at the MidWinter meeting, I had a chance to meet with Matt Dorey, the founder of Curve Dental and take a look at some of the things they've been doing with the program.
In case you haven't heard, Curve is a web based practice software. This means you only need a web browser to make it run. It works on the same principle as online banking. They store your data and you access it via the web.
Curve has been making inroads into dentistry for about 18 months now, and the company has improved their product in many ways since I first saw it. However, what I saw in Chicago was truly amazing...
In order to become a complete system, Curve has had to battle the "imaging problem". While data is easy to upload & store, practices are also taking radiographs, intraoral, extraoral, and digital caries detection images. All of which need to be stored & retrieved. The big question, until now, was how can Curve handle this? What I saw was something I'd never seen before in any industry. Curve has developed a way to take a digital x-ray sensor and run it through a browser! That's right, they can connect a sensor, have it recognized by the computer, and send the images to the Cloud without any type of third party acquisition software. Personally I've never seen anything like it before.
Now granted, what I saw was a demo with preloaded images. The reason for that being laws prohibit the use of x-radiation. However, if this all works as advertised, Curve has overcome one of the big things that they needed to overcome to be able to go mainstream. Stay tuned!
element14 announces winners of online community contests
BANGALORE, INDIA: element14 (formerly Farnell), the industry’s first fusion of commerce and community supporting millions of engineers and purchasing professionals worldwide, recently engaged its online community forum members via two creative contests. Held as part of the new brand launch celebrations, it provided members of the community a chance to win $1,500 and $500 for its ‘Design an element14 T-shirt’ and ‘Be in Your Element’ contests respectively.
“These competitions reveal the creativity of our element14 community, and it was really interesting to see what people came up with. The success of this competition has given us great ideas for future competitions and impetus to keep innovating,” said Nader Tadros, Marketing & eCommerce Director, element14, Asia Pacific.
“We are happy with the participation from the community members and their strong response highlights the vibrancy and creativity of element14’s online members. Since late 2010, over 400,000 customers worldwide have visited our website and our unique and dynamic online community portal provides integral value to our customers, as this is the place where electronic design engineers, procurement professionals and even students and hobbyists are able to interact closely and exchange salient information and feedback.”
‘Design an element14 T-shirt’
Winner of the t-shirt design contest was Ms. Diosa Blancaver from the Philippines. Diosa’s entry scored high within the element14 judging panel, as she was able to give a fresh approach to the company’s brand image, creatively incorporating the tagline “Be in Your Element” and the company colours.
Diosa, who enjoys designing, said that she found the process challenging as it required her to combine aesthetics while adhering element14’s corporate identity. Being a recent user of the community, she was surprised to learn that it has much to offer and said: “The community site is a very good outlet for electronic design engineers as they can share and gather insightful ideas and pointers from experts around the world.”
‘Be in Your Element’
element14 was also curious to find out what it meant to their community members to be ‘in their element’ (pun intended) and Dave Jones’ video response clinched the top prize with the most number of votes from the community members. Dave, from Australia, is an active member of the element14 community.
"Not only has he posted several video product reviews on the forum, he also runs an electronics engineering video blog and co-hosts an electronics radio show. He plans to use the prize money to build an autonomous stable video quadcopter platform, and hopes to inspire others to produce original content for the electronics community.”
Besides creating a new dimension for conversation and collaboration, element14’s pioneering blend of commerce and online community continues to evolve and expand globally. The site provides reviews and latest mod innovations on its popular resident program, the Ben Heck Show. In addition, new professionals are constantly being added to its “Ask an Expert” panel.
All of these combine to provide the collaborative engineering community and electronics store a unique edge in the industry, as element14 continues to be the leading distributor in the region.
Read More >>
“These competitions reveal the creativity of our element14 community, and it was really interesting to see what people came up with. The success of this competition has given us great ideas for future competitions and impetus to keep innovating,” said Nader Tadros, Marketing & eCommerce Director, element14, Asia Pacific.
“We are happy with the participation from the community members and their strong response highlights the vibrancy and creativity of element14’s online members. Since late 2010, over 400,000 customers worldwide have visited our website and our unique and dynamic online community portal provides integral value to our customers, as this is the place where electronic design engineers, procurement professionals and even students and hobbyists are able to interact closely and exchange salient information and feedback.”
‘Design an element14 T-shirt’
Winner of the t-shirt design contest was Ms. Diosa Blancaver from the Philippines. Diosa’s entry scored high within the element14 judging panel, as she was able to give a fresh approach to the company’s brand image, creatively incorporating the tagline “Be in Your Element” and the company colours.
Diosa, who enjoys designing, said that she found the process challenging as it required her to combine aesthetics while adhering element14’s corporate identity. Being a recent user of the community, she was surprised to learn that it has much to offer and said: “The community site is a very good outlet for electronic design engineers as they can share and gather insightful ideas and pointers from experts around the world.”
‘Be in Your Element’
element14 was also curious to find out what it meant to their community members to be ‘in their element’ (pun intended) and Dave Jones’ video response clinched the top prize with the most number of votes from the community members. Dave, from Australia, is an active member of the element14 community.
"Not only has he posted several video product reviews on the forum, he also runs an electronics engineering video blog and co-hosts an electronics radio show. He plans to use the prize money to build an autonomous stable video quadcopter platform, and hopes to inspire others to produce original content for the electronics community.”
Besides creating a new dimension for conversation and collaboration, element14’s pioneering blend of commerce and online community continues to evolve and expand globally. The site provides reviews and latest mod innovations on its popular resident program, the Ben Heck Show. In addition, new professionals are constantly being added to its “Ask an Expert” panel.
All of these combine to provide the collaborative engineering community and electronics store a unique edge in the industry, as element14 continues to be the leading distributor in the region.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Arrow announces global distribution agreement with Trident Microsystems
MELVILLE, USA: Arrow Electronics Inc. has announced a global distribution agreement with Trident Microsystems, Inc., a leading provider of semiconductor solutions in the digital home entertainment market.
Arrow customers (outside of Japan and Korea) now have access to Trident’s innovative offerings designed for digital televisions and set-top boxes. Thanks to Trident technology, consumers can enjoy TV shows, HD, 2D and 3D movies, 3D games, photos, videos and extensive Internet content from multiple sources on their TVs and through their set-top boxes.
“Trident’s semiconductor solutions bring consumers a world of diverse, rich and immersive entertainment. Trident is a solid addition to our line card, and we look forward to helping them build their global profile,” said Jeff Eastman, senior vice president of global supplier marketing and asset management, Arrow.
Read More >>
Arrow customers (outside of Japan and Korea) now have access to Trident’s innovative offerings designed for digital televisions and set-top boxes. Thanks to Trident technology, consumers can enjoy TV shows, HD, 2D and 3D movies, 3D games, photos, videos and extensive Internet content from multiple sources on their TVs and through their set-top boxes.
“Trident’s semiconductor solutions bring consumers a world of diverse, rich and immersive entertainment. Trident is a solid addition to our line card, and we look forward to helping them build their global profile,” said Jeff Eastman, senior vice president of global supplier marketing and asset management, Arrow.
Happy Birthday, British Interplanetary Society
OK, not quite birthday time yet. This article notes that the venerable British Interplanetary Society (BIS) "the oldest space organisation in the world still in its original form," will be 80 years old in 2013. The BIS, whose most famous member was the late Arthur C. Clarke, did many pioneering studies of rocketry, beginning with a 1938 study of what it would take to send three astronauts to the Moon. The 1970's study Project Daedalus laid out, in detailed engineering terms, the requirements to send a mission to Barnard's Star. The BIS continues to link space enthusiasts, scientists, and engineers around the world. Many groundbreaking papers have appeared in the Journal of the British Interplanetary Society (JBIS), published since 1934. Visit them at http://www.bis-spaceflight.com/
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Impressions from the Chicago MidWinter Meeting
I've just returned from Chicago where the MidWinter Dental Meeting has just concluded.
This trip was a bit of a whirlwind for me. I went in one day early for a meeting with DPR and a separate meeting with Shofu and almost every waking moment was spent either giving lectures or in meetings. Despite my best efforts, I got very little time on the show floor.
However, I did get a chance to speak to several vendors who told me traffic was light on Thursday (which was expected) and much better on Friday.
Deals were being done and sales were being made.
As i said in my wrap up from the Yankee meeting, my feelings are that the economy has turned the corner. Doctor's are spending & feeling optimistic.
Also vendors are re-energized and are showing great new products... many of which I'll be covering here.
I'm seeing great interest in the digital caries detection arena. My lecture on this subject on Thursday afternoon had a great crowd with lots of really great questions. I feel that doctors, hygienists, and assistants are really grasping how important early detection of decay can be and how greatly it can benefit the patients.
So overall I'm classifying Chicago as a big success. Things are only getting better!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Ships from 4 agencies docked at ISS
There is something cool about the shuttle Discovery's current mission to the ISS that I didn't realize: there are now craft from four space agencies docked together. Robotic supply vessels from Japan,Russia, and the European Space Agency (ESA) are docked along with NASA's shuttle. Europe's ATV-2, Johannes Kepler, is there, along with the Kounotori ("White Stork") from Japan and Russia's Progress 41. That's about as International as a Space Station can get.
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DARPA's Robotic Cheetah
If you're a soldier pursuing an enemy, wouldn't you like to be able to tell a fast-running robot to "fetch?" The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) thinks so, too. The Cheetah will have four legs, an articulated head, and a flexible spine. This will be a proof of concept model, not an operational weapon, but think of the advances in robotics we've seen in recent years.
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Zaggmate for iPad
We all looking for the next best thing & when it comes to the iPad, it does have some deficiencies that can be cured with a little help. One of these problems is the built-in soft keyboard.
The soft keyboard is "ok" as far as I'm concerned, but definitely not the best way to create a document or email. Apple even knew this as the have had Bluetooth keyboards available since the device hit the market. The problem with those is that they are one more thing to schlep around.
The folks at Zagg decided to try to remedy the "extra schlep" factor by creating a case & keyboard all in one. The Zaggmate is a brushed aluminum case with a built-in Bluetooth keyboard.
While the case really only is a cover that protects the screen, the Bluetooth keyboard is pretty nice. The keys are a bit small for my taste, but I adapted to it pretty quickly. It was easy to synch and the action on the keys is really nice.
It also has full iPod volume controls for keeping your music the way you like it while you type. Combine that with other keyboard controls for the iPad & the keyboard is a winner.
From the standpoint of the case, I definitely won't trade my Otterbox Defender for it. For everyday abuse, I'd much rather have the Otterbox with its all around protection of front, back, & all sides. However, when it comes to taking my iPad to a meeting where I'll be taking notes, I can definitely see me using the Zaggmate.
Heck, I've even typed this entire post using the Zaggmate.
Here is the link to the company webpage with all the details.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Friday, February 25, 2011
2010 worldwide HB LED market grew 93 percent
MOUNTAIN VIEW, USA: The worldwide high-brightness (HB) LED market leaped from $5.6 billion in 2009 to $10.8 billion in 2010, a growth rate of 93 percent, according to Strategies Unlimited, the leading market research firm in LEDs.
LCD monitor and TV backlights led the growth spurt, followed by mobile display applications. Ten companies accounted for more than 75 percent of the HB-LED market. Strategies Unlimited arrived at these figures after analyzing market demand as well as the supply-side activity of more than 40 HB-LED component suppliers.
The rank order, by revenue, of the top 10 suppliers in the HB-LED market in 2010 is:
1. Nichia
2. Samsung LED
3. Osram Opto Semiconductors
4. Philips Lumileds Lighting
Seoul Semiconductor
6. LG Innotek
Cree
8. Sharp
9. TG
Everlight
(Companies have the same ranking when the difference in revenue is within the margin of error. Revenue includes packaged LED sales only.)
Several paths led to this impressive growth. Samsung LED, Seoul Semiconductor, and LG Innotek rode the boom in the LCD TV and monitor backlight market. Osram rode the rise of the Chinese HB-LED market, especially in the automobile sector. Lumiled’s success in high-power backlight products, cell phone flash, and architectural lighting contributed to much of its success.
Cree’s dedicated focus on lighting ensured its continued strong position in the solid-state lighting revolution. Chinese LED suppliers captured two percent of the market. While Chinese HB-LED technologies are currently three to five years behind the rest of the world, Strategies Unlimited expects that the investment of $10.4 billion in the SSL industry by 2015 will help close the gap.
While LCD television/monitor backlights accounted for the largest part of the jump in HB-LED revenue in 2010, mobile applications were also significant contributors. In particular, the large rise in PC notebook sales and the penetration rate for LED backlights used in notebooks doubled HB-LED revenue over 2009.
Strategies Unlimited expects television and monitor backlights to continue to be a strong engine for growth in the next two years and flatten out in 2013. The overall forecast CAGR is more than 16 percent from 2010–2015.
LED luminaire design, not performance, was the primary concern for the lighting market in 2010. HB-LED component revenue for lighting was $890 million in 2010. Solid-state lighting will become the key market driver in 2014 because of the worldwide focus on energy efficiency and the phase-out of incandescent bulbs. The forecast CAGR for HB-LED components for lighting from 2010–2015 is 39 percent.
Read More >>
LCD monitor and TV backlights led the growth spurt, followed by mobile display applications. Ten companies accounted for more than 75 percent of the HB-LED market. Strategies Unlimited arrived at these figures after analyzing market demand as well as the supply-side activity of more than 40 HB-LED component suppliers.
The rank order, by revenue, of the top 10 suppliers in the HB-LED market in 2010 is:
1. Nichia
2. Samsung LED
3. Osram Opto Semiconductors
4. Philips Lumileds Lighting
Seoul Semiconductor
6. LG Innotek
Cree
8. Sharp
9. TG
Everlight
(Companies have the same ranking when the difference in revenue is within the margin of error. Revenue includes packaged LED sales only.)
Several paths led to this impressive growth. Samsung LED, Seoul Semiconductor, and LG Innotek rode the boom in the LCD TV and monitor backlight market. Osram rode the rise of the Chinese HB-LED market, especially in the automobile sector. Lumiled’s success in high-power backlight products, cell phone flash, and architectural lighting contributed to much of its success.
Cree’s dedicated focus on lighting ensured its continued strong position in the solid-state lighting revolution. Chinese LED suppliers captured two percent of the market. While Chinese HB-LED technologies are currently three to five years behind the rest of the world, Strategies Unlimited expects that the investment of $10.4 billion in the SSL industry by 2015 will help close the gap.
While LCD television/monitor backlights accounted for the largest part of the jump in HB-LED revenue in 2010, mobile applications were also significant contributors. In particular, the large rise in PC notebook sales and the penetration rate for LED backlights used in notebooks doubled HB-LED revenue over 2009.
Strategies Unlimited expects television and monitor backlights to continue to be a strong engine for growth in the next two years and flatten out in 2013. The overall forecast CAGR is more than 16 percent from 2010–2015.
LED luminaire design, not performance, was the primary concern for the lighting market in 2010. HB-LED component revenue for lighting was $890 million in 2010. Solid-state lighting will become the key market driver in 2014 because of the worldwide focus on energy efficiency and the phase-out of incandescent bulbs. The forecast CAGR for HB-LED components for lighting from 2010–2015 is 39 percent.
Critters caught up in the naming rights business
THis is always interesting to me, and I'm not even sure why. It's become commonplace to sell naming rights for new species as a way of funding research. The most famous example is the South American monkey Callicebus aureipalatti, whose specific name translates to "golden palace” — a gambling website that bought naming rights for $650,000. I didn't realize the fad included individual critters, though. Ford bought the right to name a zoo gorilla Henry. DreamWorks has deals with Zoo Atlanta and with a zoo in Spain, with the movie studio donating an unknown amount of money in exchange for naming a baby panda at each site Po, after the hero of the animated film Kung Fu Panda.
COMMENT: I don't see the harm in this, if the money is used well. The zoos had better be careful, though. What if Zoo Atlanta advertises itself as the place kids can see the "real Po" and the animal catches some bug and dies? Then you're the zoo that killed Po, and there will be economic repercussions for years. "He killed Po" might be carved on the zookeeper's tombstone.
Read More >>
COMMENT: I don't see the harm in this, if the money is used well. The zoos had better be careful, though. What if Zoo Atlanta advertises itself as the place kids can see the "real Po" and the animal catches some bug and dies? Then you're the zoo that killed Po, and there will be economic repercussions for years. "He killed Po" might be carved on the zookeeper's tombstone.
Department of cool gadgets: PERISCOP
For a long time, marine biologists have used "slurp guns" of various types to suck in marine creatures and bring them back for examination. Keeping a deep-sea critter alive, though, is a tricky process. Changes in pressure are often fatal.
French scientists have created a solution, the Projet d’Enceinte de Remontée Isobare Servant la Capture d’Organismes Profonds ("Enclosure project for isobaric ascent serving to capture deep organisms"). PERISCOP is a suction device with three chambers: one to capture an organism, one to maintain it while the submersible or ROV continues to cruise at depth, and one to maintain water pressure while you bring the organism to the surface and transfer it into a shipboard pressure tank. It's a little more complex than most such devices but it increases the depth from which pressure-sensitive fish and other animals can be safely retrieved (or kidnapped, I suppose, from the fish's point of view.) The prize so far is an eelpout brought up alive and healthy from 2,300m.
Read More >>
French scientists have created a solution, the Projet d’Enceinte de Remontée Isobare Servant la Capture d’Organismes Profonds ("Enclosure project for isobaric ascent serving to capture deep organisms"). PERISCOP is a suction device with three chambers: one to capture an organism, one to maintain it while the submersible or ROV continues to cruise at depth, and one to maintain water pressure while you bring the organism to the surface and transfer it into a shipboard pressure tank. It's a little more complex than most such devices but it increases the depth from which pressure-sensitive fish and other animals can be safely retrieved (or kidnapped, I suppose, from the fish's point of view.) The prize so far is an eelpout brought up alive and healthy from 2,300m.
Could IBM’s Watson Computer Aid the Work of Nonprofits? - Corporations - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas
Could IBM’s Watson Computer Aid the Work of Nonprofits? - Corporations - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "This week, roughly 100 government officials, medical researchers, nonprofit leaders, and others gathered at IBM’s research center in Yorktown Heights, N.Y., to discuss the possibilities. After the event, Stanley S. Litow, president of the IBM International Foundation, spoke with The Chronicle about his plan for how Watson might be able to improve how governments and nonprofits provide services."
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Could IBM’s Watson Computer Aid the Work of Nonprofits? - Corporations - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas
Could IBM’s Watson Computer Aid the Work of Nonprofits? - Corporations - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "This week, roughly 100 government officials, medical researchers, nonprofit leaders, and others gathered at IBM’s research center in Yorktown Heights, N.Y., to discuss the possibilities. After the event, Stanley S. Litow, president of the IBM International Foundation, spoke with The Chronicle about his plan for how Watson might be able to improve how governments and nonprofits provide services."
Read More >>
Call for papers: Library Hi Tech
Call for papers: Library Hi Tech
Library Hi Tech is looking for articles specifically on the following topics:
-- Plagiarism and libraries: specific case studies or software tools / tests are of special interest.
-- Libraries using tablets: new applications and studies.
-- Persuasive Technology in libraries
While interest in these topics is ongoing, authors are encouraged to send a proposal by 31 March 2011. Potential due dates are 31 May and 31 July. Please write to lht.editorial.staff@googlemail.com.
Other topics related to libraries and technology are of course welcome too.
Library Hi Tech is a peer-reviewed, ISI-indexed scholarly journal published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd.
Technolog - Google tool helps find Christchurch earthquake victims
Technolog - Google tool helps find Christchurch earthquake victims: "The Google Person Finder is a free, simple-to-use tool which was dreamt up after the 2010 Haiti earthquake. All someone needs to do is enter as much of a person's name as he or she knows and Google will provide any related information — including last known location, physical descriptions, last reported status and messages left by those searching for the individual."
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Call for Contributors: Against the Grain Column on vendors and librarians who shifted ranks
Call for Contributors: Against the Grain Column on vendors and librarians who shifted ranks
I'm editing a column in ATG entitled "The Grass is Often Greener." I'm looking for contributions from vendor types who have moved into librarianship or librarians who have joined the vendor ranks. Please
--
Forrest E. Link
Acquisitions Librarian
The College of New Jersey
609.771.2412
609.637.5177(fax)
HOW TO: Spend an Entire Year Giving to Charity - Yahoo! News
HOW TO: Spend an Entire Year Giving to Charity - Yahoo! News: "Every day, Garcia chooses a new charity and donates a small sum of money -- usually around $10, but never less than $5. He then documents that day's charity in a blog post on his Tumblr, where he describes the cause and provides some insights or personal stories to highlight its mission. Garcia, a Chicago-based actor and director, has minimal experience with blogging and social media but now relies on a suite of digital tools to spread his message, including a Twitter account, @deusexrockina, the hashtag #GiveEve"
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Ironman's Kor Water Bottle
I've always loved Ironman. From the time I was a little kid I've always had a special love of the story of Tony Stark and his invincible metal suit. I grew up on comic books and I was always thrilled to get my hands on the latest Ironman issue.
So, needless to say, I was thrilled when Ironman began to hit the big screen. Between the release of the first movie and Ironman 2 last fall I was also fortunate enough to purchase a BlueRay player. One of my Christmas presents this year was a BlueRay copy of Ironman 2 and I'd been dying to see it, but my schedule was just too darn busy. So a couple of weekends ago I finally got a moment of free time on a Saturday and settled down to watch.
As a diehard geek (and a dental one at that), there were 2 scenes that really caught my eye. One was early in the movie where Ivan Vanko is working on his Whiplash suit. There is a scene where, as he builds, he exposes some of the parts to a blue light from a "ray gun" looking device. It's only on screen for perhaps a second or 2 but I immediately recognized it as a Kerr LE Demetron curing light!
The other scene is where Tony Stark is in his home workshop and is drinking his life saving potion from a decidedly high tech looking bottle. The bottle immediately caught my eye. In one of those geeky moments that I love so much, I paused the movie. A quick Google search for "Ironman Bottle" immediately gave me a ton of hits on a company called Kor. Another quick Amazon search told me they were in stock. Inside of 2 days, my own Kor One water bottle was in my possession.
This thing is just flat out cool. It looks great and has a sealed pop-top with a release button.
The company also has a social conscience. There are several different colors of bottles, each supporting a different environmental/social cause. A percentage of your purchase price is donated to a charity supporting the cause your bottle champions.
element14 and Littelfuse expand regional distribution agreement
BANGALORE, INDIA: element14, the industry’s first fusion of commerce and community supporting millions of engineers and purchasing professionals worldwide, has expanded its partnership with Littelfuse, the world’s leading manufacturer for high performance circuit protection devices.
Offering the widest range of Littelfuse products stocked in Asia Pacific with no minimum order quantity required, element14 adds over 400 new products from Littelfuse POWR-GARD circuit protection solutions across three distinct classes of fuses to electronic design engineers and maintenance and repair professionals in South East Asia, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Reliable and comprehensive circuit protection solution
Circuitry protection solutions are one of the pressing concerns faced by electronic design engineers across the region. Littelfuse solutions add a distinct competitive advantage and value to element14’s existing inventory of products. The introduction of the multi-purpose and reliable circuit protection series will allow electronic design engineers in the region to have the necessary surge protection solutions to meet their evolving business challenges.
These high performance fuses can be used in a variety of applications including motor control centres, transformer protection, general purpose circuit, such as mains, feeders and branch circuits; service entrance switches, switchboard main and feeder switches, distribution panel boards and general purpose circuits. The fuses can also be used to protect individual electric services and meter stacks when integrated in main switches.
William Chong, regional director of Supplier, Product & Purchasing Management, element14, Asia Pacific said: “element14 is committed to providing its customers across the region with the most innovative and industry-leading products and services as the franchised multi-channel distributor of Littelfuse products across the region. With the broadest range of electronic design centric products stocked in Asia Pacific, the addition of the complete range of industry-leading Littelfuse POWR-GARD series to element14’s inventory provides customers even more innovative solutions to meet their business objectives.”
Angus Tsai, regional sales manager for POWR-GARD Asia, Littelfuse, adds: “This partnership with element14 is an exciting and successful development for Littelfuse that provides us with an excellent platform to further expand our geographic reach using element14’s extensive distribution network in the region. This strategic collaboration has been realised to ensure electronic design engineers and maintenance and repair professionals in the Asia Pacific region will now have easy and instant access to our range of products through element14’s commerce portals and online community.”
Read More >>
Offering the widest range of Littelfuse products stocked in Asia Pacific with no minimum order quantity required, element14 adds over 400 new products from Littelfuse POWR-GARD circuit protection solutions across three distinct classes of fuses to electronic design engineers and maintenance and repair professionals in South East Asia, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Reliable and comprehensive circuit protection solution
Circuitry protection solutions are one of the pressing concerns faced by electronic design engineers across the region. Littelfuse solutions add a distinct competitive advantage and value to element14’s existing inventory of products. The introduction of the multi-purpose and reliable circuit protection series will allow electronic design engineers in the region to have the necessary surge protection solutions to meet their evolving business challenges.
These high performance fuses can be used in a variety of applications including motor control centres, transformer protection, general purpose circuit, such as mains, feeders and branch circuits; service entrance switches, switchboard main and feeder switches, distribution panel boards and general purpose circuits. The fuses can also be used to protect individual electric services and meter stacks when integrated in main switches.
William Chong, regional director of Supplier, Product & Purchasing Management, element14, Asia Pacific said: “element14 is committed to providing its customers across the region with the most innovative and industry-leading products and services as the franchised multi-channel distributor of Littelfuse products across the region. With the broadest range of electronic design centric products stocked in Asia Pacific, the addition of the complete range of industry-leading Littelfuse POWR-GARD series to element14’s inventory provides customers even more innovative solutions to meet their business objectives.”
Angus Tsai, regional sales manager for POWR-GARD Asia, Littelfuse, adds: “This partnership with element14 is an exciting and successful development for Littelfuse that provides us with an excellent platform to further expand our geographic reach using element14’s extensive distribution network in the region. This strategic collaboration has been realised to ensure electronic design engineers and maintenance and repair professionals in the Asia Pacific region will now have easy and instant access to our range of products through element14’s commerce portals and online community.”
Thursday, February 24, 2011
People of the ancient Subarctic
In a trench dug into an ancient settlement site in central Alaska, archaeologists found something startling: the remains of a child, 11,000 years old, which had been cremated after death. The dwelling the child lived in was then abandoned. Was this reverence for the dead? Fear of a spirit? Fear of disease? The dwelling was not a simple nomadic camp, but a pole-supported structure dug about 30cm into the ground. Remains of animals, among other finds, show the site was used for a long time before the child's death.
It's not known what modern Alaska Natives the child is related to, although a tribe living near the lake has christened the child Xaasaa Cheege Ts'eniin: Upward Sun River Mouth Child
What happened here? There is much we may never know.
Read More >>
It's not known what modern Alaska Natives the child is related to, although a tribe living near the lake has christened the child Xaasaa Cheege Ts'eniin: Upward Sun River Mouth Child
What happened here? There is much we may never know.
Hail Discovery!
STS-133, the last mission of the shuttle Discovery, is in orbit. Discovery has logged 39 space flights, more than any other orbiter.
NASA reported,
"Good to be here," Commander Steve Lindsey radioed soon after the three main engines shut off and the external fuel tank was jettisoned. The official launch time was 4:53:24 p.m. EST."
COMMENT: The Shuttle was hampered by cost restrictions that kept it from being fully reusable, and plagued by two fatal accidents that were the fault of (avoidable) human error. But it was, for all that, a magnificent achievement, a spacecraft with countless uses, and it opened up space (at least, LEO space) to humans on a scale never seen before. It made possible the Hubble telescope and the International Space Station. We're going to miss it.
Read More >>
NASA reported,
"Good to be here," Commander Steve Lindsey radioed soon after the three main engines shut off and the external fuel tank was jettisoned. The official launch time was 4:53:24 p.m. EST."
COMMENT: The Shuttle was hampered by cost restrictions that kept it from being fully reusable, and plagued by two fatal accidents that were the fault of (avoidable) human error. But it was, for all that, a magnificent achievement, a spacecraft with countless uses, and it opened up space (at least, LEO space) to humans on a scale never seen before. It made possible the Hubble telescope and the International Space Station. We're going to miss it.
Digi-Key expands product line with PCB LED dev kits compatible with Cree technology
THIEF RIVER FALLS, USA: Electronic components distributor Digi-Key Corp. announced it has stock of Cree-based printed circuit board (PCB) LED development kits, often referred to as star boards.
These kits, also known as star boards, are designed to simplify LED ease-of-use. PCB development kits, when combined with thermal heat sinks, can shorten time-to-market by forming the foundation for LED designs. PCB configurations are available for Cree XLamp XR-E, XR-C, XP-G, XP-E, XP-C, MX-6, and MC-E LEDs.
To search for these PCB development kits on Digi-Key’s website, enter the search term “digi-key cree” into Digi-Key’s part search bar and click on “LEDs - High Brightness Power Modules” under the “Optoelectronics” heading in the search results. From there, a filtered search may be performed for the particular PCB development kits needed.
Read More >>
These kits, also known as star boards, are designed to simplify LED ease-of-use. PCB development kits, when combined with thermal heat sinks, can shorten time-to-market by forming the foundation for LED designs. PCB configurations are available for Cree XLamp XR-E, XR-C, XP-G, XP-E, XP-C, MX-6, and MC-E LEDs.
To search for these PCB development kits on Digi-Key’s website, enter the search term “digi-key cree” into Digi-Key’s part search bar and click on “LEDs - High Brightness Power Modules” under the “Optoelectronics” heading in the search results. From there, a filtered search may be performed for the particular PCB development kits needed.
Cree launches industry’s first surface mount 1200V silicon carbide Schottky diode
DURHAM, USA: Cree Inc. announced the availability of the industry’s first commercial 1200V surface mount SiC Schottky diode.
Packaged in an industry-standard surface mount TO-252 D-Pak, the Schottky diodes deliver the same proven performance as Cree’s TO-220 through-hole devices, with a smaller board footprint and lower profile. This can enable the design of smaller, lower cost, and more efficient solar power micro-inverters, compared to systems designed with larger and bulkier through-hole parts.
“Our customers designing high-efficiency micro-inverters for solar power applications wanted to simplify their designs without compromising system efficiency. They were looking for a surface mount device that could deliver the same performance they had come to expect from SiC Schottky diodes – zero reverse recovery losses, high frequency operation with a low EMI signature, and reduced operating temperatures,” explained Cengiz Balkas, Cree vice president and general manager, Power and RF.
“Given Cree’s experience in developing high-voltage SiC power devices, the move to the surface mount D-Pak was a natural extension of our Schottky diode product line to serve this critical market.”
Cree C2D05120E Schottky diodes are rated for 5A and 1200V, with approximate board mounted dimensions of 6.6mm wide x 9.9mm long x 2.3mm high. Operating junction and storage temperature is rated for -55°C to +175°C.
The C2D05120E surface mount Schottky diodes are fully qualified and released for production use.
Read More >>
Packaged in an industry-standard surface mount TO-252 D-Pak, the Schottky diodes deliver the same proven performance as Cree’s TO-220 through-hole devices, with a smaller board footprint and lower profile. This can enable the design of smaller, lower cost, and more efficient solar power micro-inverters, compared to systems designed with larger and bulkier through-hole parts.
“Our customers designing high-efficiency micro-inverters for solar power applications wanted to simplify their designs without compromising system efficiency. They were looking for a surface mount device that could deliver the same performance they had come to expect from SiC Schottky diodes – zero reverse recovery losses, high frequency operation with a low EMI signature, and reduced operating temperatures,” explained Cengiz Balkas, Cree vice president and general manager, Power and RF.
“Given Cree’s experience in developing high-voltage SiC power devices, the move to the surface mount D-Pak was a natural extension of our Schottky diode product line to serve this critical market.”
Cree C2D05120E Schottky diodes are rated for 5A and 1200V, with approximate board mounted dimensions of 6.6mm wide x 9.9mm long x 2.3mm high. Operating junction and storage temperature is rated for -55°C to +175°C.
The C2D05120E surface mount Schottky diodes are fully qualified and released for production use.
Announcement of latest European emission standards leaves lithium battery industry at a crossroad
TAIWAN: A ground breaking news for electric vehicles in Europe: the European congress has passed the latest emission standard for commercial vehicles. EnergyTrend, a research division of TrendForce, believes that low emission vehicles will become an essential development trend for car makers in the near future.
Therefore, although concerns about oversupply of lithium battery in 2011 still remain, EnergyTrend believes that, with more specific carbon emission regulations made for vehicles, car makers have to prepare for low emission vehicle launches by 2014. It is forecasted that shortage of lithium battery supply will appear as a result. (See Chart 1).
The European congress has released the latest regulation on carbon emission standard for commercial vehicles on February 15, 2011. As for 3.5 ton light commercial cars, 70 percent of vehicles introduced to the market have to meet 175g/km emission standard, and 100 percent in 2017.
For those car makers who can not reach the goal, they are requested to pay $129/g incremental penalty payment starting from 2019. However, car makers are allowed to offset high carbon emission vehicles with vehicles emitting less than 50g/km to reach the target.
The legislation authority clearly shows EU’s determination to keep strict carbon emission standards for automobiles in Europe and to expedite the cooperation and development among parts manufacturers. Under such circumstances, several car makers are forced to adopt lithium batteries in the supply chain.
In the meantime, one of the biggest lithium battery exhibits in the world, Battery Japan, in early March 2011 in Tokyo, Japan. Many participants are gathered to witness the reformation of this particular industry which is now believed standing at a crossroad.
Read More >>
Therefore, although concerns about oversupply of lithium battery in 2011 still remain, EnergyTrend believes that, with more specific carbon emission regulations made for vehicles, car makers have to prepare for low emission vehicle launches by 2014. It is forecasted that shortage of lithium battery supply will appear as a result. (See Chart 1).
The European congress has released the latest regulation on carbon emission standard for commercial vehicles on February 15, 2011. As for 3.5 ton light commercial cars, 70 percent of vehicles introduced to the market have to meet 175g/km emission standard, and 100 percent in 2017.
For those car makers who can not reach the goal, they are requested to pay $129/g incremental penalty payment starting from 2019. However, car makers are allowed to offset high carbon emission vehicles with vehicles emitting less than 50g/km to reach the target.
The legislation authority clearly shows EU’s determination to keep strict carbon emission standards for automobiles in Europe and to expedite the cooperation and development among parts manufacturers. Under such circumstances, several car makers are forced to adopt lithium batteries in the supply chain.
In the meantime, one of the biggest lithium battery exhibits in the world, Battery Japan, in early March 2011 in Tokyo, Japan. Many participants are gathered to witness the reformation of this particular industry which is now believed standing at a crossroad.
Call for Research Articles are needed for Academic Exchange Quarterly
Call for Research Articles are needed for Academic Exchange Quarterly
Featured Editors: Alys Jordan and Matt Buckley
We are looking for Research Manuscripts which are between 2000-5000 words that address some of the following questions:
1. What are the best methods for successful instruction in a virtual environment?
2. What are the most effective instruction practices, methods, and strategies for this environment?
3. What instructional design processes, techniques, and technology are the most successful in developing high quality Web-based distance education courses?
4. How do we support students’ academic needs in this environment to ensure their success?
5. What are the most innovative uses of technology to deliver courses in this environment?
Ideal contributors will be those who teach Web-based distance education courses or who are responsible for various elements of these courses. This can include faculty, librarians, administrators, instructional designers, graduate students, and various other academic personnel. Please identify your submission with keyword in the subject heading of your email: DISTANCE-4.
Manuscript format and guidelines are available here: http://www.rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/rufen1.htm
Submit Manuscript to academicexchange@yahoo.com and in the subject heading indicate: DISTANCE-4
Deadline:
Winter 2012 edition deadline is November 30, 2011.
(alys.jordan@nova.edu) or Matt Buckley (mbuckley@nova.edu), http://rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/4distance.htm
Midas VeniceF mixing consoles include Propellerhead Record
Propellerhead Software today announced that their highly acclaimed Record software has been chosen by premium mixing console maker Midas to be included with all new VeniceF mixing consoles.
The recently-launched VeniceF mixing console features the full functionality and sound quality of the much-loved Midas XL3 EQ and filter section, Midas mic preamps, 100mm faders, increased channel and input count, a dual 7x2 matrix and a reorganised master section layout. Furthermore the VeniceF’s 32x32 FireWire capability adds 32 channels of multitrack recording and playback (VeniceF 320) using any suitable FireWire-equipped computer, without the need for additional costly interfaces.
Although specifically designed for live sound, the VeniceF is equally at home in recording and remixing applications. Each Midas VeniceF console includes a free 60-day trial version of RECORD, which functions as a multitrack recording system and virtual FX rack with an impressive choice of creative FX options. RECORD will operate in conjunction with almost any FireWire-equipped Mac or PC.
“For us, RECORD was an obvious choice,” says Midas Klark Teknik’s brand development manager Richard Ferriday. “Very early in our negotiations with Propellerhead, we realized we were dealing with a company who shared our passion for audio, our proclivity for an intuitive user-interface, and our commitment to provide a quality product. All a perfect match for VeniceF – you could almost call it synergy.”
www.propellerheads.se
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Intel's Light Peak to Debut Thursday
The technology world loves rumors, in fact, I think that they live, breath, eat and sleep rumors. I feel that if there were no internet rumors, then we would have a lot of depressed computer people out there with nothing to do to fill their free time. It's quite sad really. But, alas, we have another rumor floating around the internet that all the little techies are drooling over and that is the rumor that Intel will officially launch its Light Peak high-speed connection technology this Thursday.This great speculation comes from Intel telling the media that it will "host a press briefing to discuss a new technology that is about to appear on the market." CNET apparently has "an industry source familiar with details of the event" and says that it will indeed be Light Peak. Other speculation surrounding this news is concerning whether or not this launch will have anything to do with the new MacBook Pros also set to be launched on Thursday.
Rumors have been circulating since late 2010 about Apple possibly incorporating Light Peak into its 2011 MacBook Pro models. Since then, there have been leaked spec sheets floating around as well as product photos of a 13-inch MacBook Pro which would back up this rumor if it is true. If this is true, then Apple plans on renaming it "Thunderbolt". However, it is unclear whether or not Intel will adopt this nomenclature as well.
Whether you decide to call it Thunderbolt or Light Peak is up to you, but know that it is a single interface designed to replace the SCSI, SATA, USB, FireWire and PCI Express ports on a computer. The technology, which is copper-based, supposedly delivers 10Gbps bi-directional data transfers and is the main reason some people have speculated Intel has been so slow to adopt native USB 3.0 support on its motherboards, something Intel has not surprisingly refuted.
Source: Maximum PC - Intel to Debut Light Peak on Thursday, Apple Calls it "Thunderbolt"
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EBS artist Laurence Cottle to perform at the London Bass Guitar Show
EBS and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd, are pleased to announce the hugely respected Laurence Cottle will appear on the Main Stage and deliver a Masterclass Session at the upcoming London Bass Guitar Show, 12-13th March, Olympia.
Laurence has played with many of the worlds great musicians such as Sting, Cher, Seal, Eno and Jaco. And working with Michael Kamen has recorded for films like Lethal Weapon and Mr. Holland's Opus. When left on his own Laurence often ventures into the world of jazz and its surrounding planets.
Laurence will deliver a Masterclass at 11:15am and appears on the Main Live Stage at 3pm on the second day of the show, Sunday 13th.
The London Bass Guitar Show is aimed at providing a fully dedicated two-day bass show for the UK bass public, bringing globally recognised players together with a full and wide ranging exhibition of the very latest bass instruments, making for an exciting show designed to promote the industry and the art. Other artists performing include Mark King and Stu Hamm.
For more information please visit www.londonbassguitarshow.com
For the latest EBS news in the UK please visit our EBS UK Facebook Page
LED backlighting drives double digit growth for DTV semiconductors in 2011
EL SEGUNDO, USA: Driven by the vibrant light-emitting diode (LED) backlighting segment, the global digital TV (DTV) semiconductor market is expected to expand by a robust 16.5 percent in 2011, according to new IHS iSuppli research.
Revenue in 2011 for DTV semiconductors is projected to reach $15.5 billion, up from $13.3 billion in 2010. Without the high-performing market for LED backlights used in liquid-crystal display (LCD) televisions, growth of the overall DTV semiconductor space in 2011 would amount to just 4.1 percent.
Revenue will continue to rise during the next few years, hitting $19.0 billion in 2014, as shown in the figure.
Source: IHS iSuppli, USA.
The strong rise in the LED backlighting chips this year contrasts with the decelerating growth in the overall DTV semiconductor market. This year’s DTV semiconductor growth will amount to half the 33 percent expansion rate recorded last year, when the market rebounded from an anemic 2009 that was hamstrung by the economic crisis. The LED segment, on the other hand, continues at a blistering pace, jumping 138.4 percent from $1.3 billion in 2010 to an anticipated $3.1 billion this year.
“The disparity in growth between the overall DTV semiconductor market and the LED backlighting segment points to divergent dynamics in the television space today,” said Randy Lawson, manager and principal analyst for display and consumer electronics at IHS.
“On one end of the continuum, the slowdown of the DTV semiconductor market mirrors the general deceleration of growth in the worldwide television market, particularly in the United States and the European Union. It also reflects the decline in average selling prices of television semiconductors. The opposite side of the spectrum, however, exhibits a vigorous, ever-expanding LED backlighting segment within the industry—borne by the continued transition among manufacturers to feature the new technology in product offerings, as well as by the adoption among consumers of fashionable, ultra-thin LED sets into their homes.”
LED backlighting chips will generate $5.5 billion in revenue and be present in more than 80 percent of all flat-panel televisions by 2014, a far cry from $370 million in 2009 when they were available in less than 3 percent of models in the market, IHS iSuppli research shows.
All told, numerous new technologies and features in addition to LED backlighting are being implemented in flat-panel TV sets that will serve to fuel growth of the DTV semiconductor market. Among them are the adoption of 3-D technology, frame-rate conversion to 120Hz and 240Hz, wireless connectivity and Internet media playback.
In particular, the broader adoption of wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, will represent a new area of opportunity for semiconductor suppliers.
Source: IHS iSuppli, USA.
Read More >>
Revenue in 2011 for DTV semiconductors is projected to reach $15.5 billion, up from $13.3 billion in 2010. Without the high-performing market for LED backlights used in liquid-crystal display (LCD) televisions, growth of the overall DTV semiconductor space in 2011 would amount to just 4.1 percent.
Revenue will continue to rise during the next few years, hitting $19.0 billion in 2014, as shown in the figure.
Source: IHS iSuppli, USA.The strong rise in the LED backlighting chips this year contrasts with the decelerating growth in the overall DTV semiconductor market. This year’s DTV semiconductor growth will amount to half the 33 percent expansion rate recorded last year, when the market rebounded from an anemic 2009 that was hamstrung by the economic crisis. The LED segment, on the other hand, continues at a blistering pace, jumping 138.4 percent from $1.3 billion in 2010 to an anticipated $3.1 billion this year.
“The disparity in growth between the overall DTV semiconductor market and the LED backlighting segment points to divergent dynamics in the television space today,” said Randy Lawson, manager and principal analyst for display and consumer electronics at IHS.
“On one end of the continuum, the slowdown of the DTV semiconductor market mirrors the general deceleration of growth in the worldwide television market, particularly in the United States and the European Union. It also reflects the decline in average selling prices of television semiconductors. The opposite side of the spectrum, however, exhibits a vigorous, ever-expanding LED backlighting segment within the industry—borne by the continued transition among manufacturers to feature the new technology in product offerings, as well as by the adoption among consumers of fashionable, ultra-thin LED sets into their homes.”
LED backlighting chips will generate $5.5 billion in revenue and be present in more than 80 percent of all flat-panel televisions by 2014, a far cry from $370 million in 2009 when they were available in less than 3 percent of models in the market, IHS iSuppli research shows.
All told, numerous new technologies and features in addition to LED backlighting are being implemented in flat-panel TV sets that will serve to fuel growth of the DTV semiconductor market. Among them are the adoption of 3-D technology, frame-rate conversion to 120Hz and 240Hz, wireless connectivity and Internet media playback.
In particular, the broader adoption of wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, will represent a new area of opportunity for semiconductor suppliers.
Source: IHS iSuppli, USA.
Five Ways Nonprofits Can Use Social Media to Build Their e-Newsletter List | CharityHappenings Ticketing
Five Ways Nonprofits Can Use Social Media to Build Their e-Newsletter List | CharityHappenings Ticketing: "Reports and predictions of the death of e-mail fluctuate seemingly on a quarterly basis.
However, one thing that is certain is that the ROI (Return on Investment) from e-newsletters is still relatively high compared to other Web-based channels. For me, that ROI translates into webinar attendees and speaking engagements. For nonprofits, the ROI of e-newsletters translates into online dollars raised through “Donate Now” technology, event attendees, website and blog traffic, and paradoxically new Followers, Fans, and Friends on social networking sites."
Read More >>
However, one thing that is certain is that the ROI (Return on Investment) from e-newsletters is still relatively high compared to other Web-based channels. For me, that ROI translates into webinar attendees and speaking engagements. For nonprofits, the ROI of e-newsletters translates into online dollars raised through “Donate Now” technology, event attendees, website and blog traffic, and paradoxically new Followers, Fans, and Friends on social networking sites."
Journal of Library Innovation: Call for Review Authors
Journal of Library Innovation: Call for Review Authors
The editors of the Journal of Library Innovation (JOLI) are seeking librarians, library staff, and library school students to review materials such as books, conferences, and computer applications. Our reviews are designed to provide library professionals with information about items containing new and innovative ideas to try in their
libraries or in their professional development endeavors. If you are interested in writing reviews, please email a writing sample to Reviews Section Editor Samantha Gust at gust@niagara.edu. Please share this email with colleagues who might be interested as well.
For further information about JOLI, please visit: http://www.libraryinnovation.org
Journal of Library Innovation is published by the Western New York Library Resources Council, Buffalo NY. http://www.wnylrc.org
Ultradent Products, Inc. is excited to introduce unit dose Opalescence, Opalescence Oh! at the Chicago Dental Show (February 24–26, 2011)
Here's a sneak preview of a product being released at the Chicago MidWinter Meeting!
Oh! That’s Easy!
Oh! That’s Brilliant!
Oh! That’s Opalescence!
Opalescence Oh! is the latest craze in whitening! It is a unit dose size bulb filled with 0.6mls of Opalescence gel. Each bulb whitens one arch. The kits are available in 4 concentrations of carbamide peroxide (10%, 15%, 20%, 35%) and same great flavors: Mint, Melon and Regular. The price is the same as the Opalescence in a syringe.
Here are some quick FAQ’s:
Q. What is the shelf life?
A: 24 months refrigerated or 12 months unrefrigerated.
Q: Where can I find the expiration date on the bulb?
A: On the side opposite the logo you will find two rows of letters and numbers. The top row references the
percentage (i.e., CP15 for Carbamide Peroxide 15%). The bottom row references the lot number and
expiration date (i.e., R0512 translates to R for the lot number and 0512 for a May 2012 expiration date).
Q: How many bulbs come in a patient kit?
A: The Opalescence Oh! patient kit contains 16 bulbs. If whitening both arches the kit contains enough gel for
8 days.
Q: What is that empty space in the patient kit for?
A: That space holds the tray case (see picture on sales sheet) so patients can conveniently store everything on
their counter during their whitening treatment.
Q: Will custom printing be available?
A: Yes! The Opalescence Oh! patient kits can be customized. The process will be the same as the Opalescence
PF syringe custom printing.
Advanced tips for Reason's Kong courtesy of Sound On Sound
The latest issue of Sound On Sound (March 2011) showcases just how powerful Reason's Kong drum device is with a double-page advanced technique article.
"Last month’s column offered an introductory guide to Kong, Reason 5’s new dedicated drum instrument. This time we’re going to dig deeper into its complexities and possibilities, and hopefully give you an idea of just how much more there is to Propellerhead’s giant primate‑themed percussion player."
"Kong in all its folded‑out glory. Notice the Pad Settings area in the upper-right quarter, which includes the Pad Group, Drum Assignment and Hit Type controls."
To read the full article please pick up the March 2011 issue of Sound On Sound
http://www.soundonsound.com
Dave Spoon's Reason-based studio opens the "Studio of the Stars" series on musicradar.com
musicradar.com have poked their cameras into the "Home Studio's of the Stars". Heading up the feature is Dave Spoon's Reason-based studio.
Dave Spoon (AKA Simon Neale) arrived at dance music’s top table in 2006 with the Reason-produced At Night (later re-released with a vocal by Lisa Maffia as Bad Girl (At Night)).
As Dave explains, Reason was all that was required to produce At Night. “That was all completely Reason and I wrote it in around two hours. It was all Reason synths, mixed in Reason, the works - it was a defining moment for me that track and there’s nothing to it when you break it down, really."
He’s subsequently launched a successful remix partnership with DJ Pete Tong and is part of the line-up for BBC Radio 1’s In New DJs We Trust show.
Full article:
http://www.musicradar.com/news/tech/studios-of-the-pros-stars-recording-setups-in-pictures-370071#content
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
New Fab 42 from Intel
On Friday, February 18, Intel announced that they will be constructing a brand new $5 billion fab in Arizona. The fab will be used for the manufacturing of chips using a 14-nm manufacturing process and leading edge 300-mm wafers.
In the statement that Intel released on Friday, it was said that the new fab would be called Fab 42. Construction of the facility will begin sometime in the middle of 2011. Intel is saying that Fab 42 will be "the most advanced, high-volume manufacturing facility in the world." It should be finished in 2013.
The announcement about Intel’s latest investment was made on the same day that President Obama toured an Intel facility in Hillsboro, Oregon. While at the facility, Obama decided to go ahead and name Intel’s chief executive Paul Otellini as a member of the Council on Jobs and Competitiveness. Going along with this, it is definitely not coincidental that the new fab that Intel is constructing will create "thousands of construction and permanent manufacturing jobs" that go right along with Otellini’s new position.
One of the biggest advantages that Intel has had in the past has been its strong manufacturing line. They have constructed several different fabs around the world. These fabs have really helped to keep Intel in competition with their rival AMD, who has been trying to undermine Intel by designing more efficient chips.
The new 14-nm fab that is being constructed by Intel will be considered one of the most advanced semiconductor fabs compared to any in its category. According to PCmag, the fabs will be “putting out chips that will incorporate linewidths that are twice as fine as Intel's current ‘Sandy Bridge’ processors, which use a 32-nm process.” As of right now, a comparison cannot be made between the chips that Intel is putting out currently and those that will be made with the new process, but we can say that the new chips will most likely use less power or run much faster than the versions that Intel is currently releasing.
"The investment positions our manufacturing network for future growth," said Brian Krzanich, senior vice president and general manager for Intel's manufacturing and supply chain operations, in a statement. "This fab will begin operations on a process that will allow us to create transistors with a minimum feature size of 14 nanometers. For Intel, manufacturing serves as the underpinning for our business and allows us to provide customers and consumers with leading-edge products in high volume. The unmatched scope and scale of our investments in manufacturing help Intel maintain industry leadership and drives innovation."
In the past few weeks, Intel has been dealing with a small roadblock that the company discovered concerning a support chip that is associated with the Sandy Bridge chip processor.
At the end of January, Intel found what is now being called the “Cougar Point” flaw and were forced to recall the chip. Shipping resumed about a week after the problem was discovered, but it was under the condition that Intel and OED could both assure one hundred percent that the flaw would not manifest.
Due to the temporary roadblock that Intel was forced to deal with, its rival AMD went ahead and launched an ad campaign on Friday in an attempt to pull in customers. We’ll have to see if Intel can jump right back into the race.
In the statement that Intel released on Friday, it was said that the new fab would be called Fab 42. Construction of the facility will begin sometime in the middle of 2011. Intel is saying that Fab 42 will be "the most advanced, high-volume manufacturing facility in the world." It should be finished in 2013.
The announcement about Intel’s latest investment was made on the same day that President Obama toured an Intel facility in Hillsboro, Oregon. While at the facility, Obama decided to go ahead and name Intel’s chief executive Paul Otellini as a member of the Council on Jobs and Competitiveness. Going along with this, it is definitely not coincidental that the new fab that Intel is constructing will create "thousands of construction and permanent manufacturing jobs" that go right along with Otellini’s new position.
One of the biggest advantages that Intel has had in the past has been its strong manufacturing line. They have constructed several different fabs around the world. These fabs have really helped to keep Intel in competition with their rival AMD, who has been trying to undermine Intel by designing more efficient chips.
The new 14-nm fab that is being constructed by Intel will be considered one of the most advanced semiconductor fabs compared to any in its category. According to PCmag, the fabs will be “putting out chips that will incorporate linewidths that are twice as fine as Intel's current ‘Sandy Bridge’ processors, which use a 32-nm process.” As of right now, a comparison cannot be made between the chips that Intel is putting out currently and those that will be made with the new process, but we can say that the new chips will most likely use less power or run much faster than the versions that Intel is currently releasing.
"The investment positions our manufacturing network for future growth," said Brian Krzanich, senior vice president and general manager for Intel's manufacturing and supply chain operations, in a statement. "This fab will begin operations on a process that will allow us to create transistors with a minimum feature size of 14 nanometers. For Intel, manufacturing serves as the underpinning for our business and allows us to provide customers and consumers with leading-edge products in high volume. The unmatched scope and scale of our investments in manufacturing help Intel maintain industry leadership and drives innovation."
In the past few weeks, Intel has been dealing with a small roadblock that the company discovered concerning a support chip that is associated with the Sandy Bridge chip processor.
At the end of January, Intel found what is now being called the “Cougar Point” flaw and were forced to recall the chip. Shipping resumed about a week after the problem was discovered, but it was under the condition that Intel and OED could both assure one hundred percent that the flaw would not manifest.
Due to the temporary roadblock that Intel was forced to deal with, its rival AMD went ahead and launched an ad campaign on Friday in an attempt to pull in customers. We’ll have to see if Intel can jump right back into the race.
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Microspace: Music of the SPHERES
Remember SPHERES, those little free-floating nanosats sent up to the ISS in 2006? The trio of "helper" satellites is still up there, and DARPA has all kinds of cool experimental uses for them. The SPHERES power themselves around in the atmospheres inside the ISS.
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Cree XLamp MT-G LED delivers unprecedented performance
DURHAM, USA: Cree Inc. announced a new lighting-class LED designed for high-output, small form-factor directional lighting applications.
The XLamp MT-G LEDs are optimized for 35-50 Watt halogen MR16 retrofit bulbs and other accent, track, display and down lighting used in retail stores, residential settings, museums, art galleries, hospitality and landscapes and are the first commercial LEDs to deliver sufficient light output for these applications.
The multi-die XLamp MT-G LED features Cree EasyWhite technology to deliver consistent color in a small, highly efficient package. This innovative LED is designed for the high-lumen, small-footprint requirements of 35 and 50 Watt halogen retrofit lamps. Cree engaged driver, thermal and optic providers to create an MR16 lamp reference design to further enable its LED customers to quickly address this market. The reference design is available for free at mtg.cree.com.
“To date, there are no energy-efficient alternatives for many high-lumen, small form-factor, directional lighting applications. Until now, LED-based MR16 lamps have been a tremendous challenge for the lighting design community in terms of both light output and color consistency due to their small size and limited capacity for thermal management,” said Paul Thieken, Cree, director of marketing, LED components. “Cree developed this LED from the ground-up with applications like these in mind, and its introduction signals the arrival of the LED lighting revolution in these high-profile markets.”
The XLamp MT-G LED is the first in the industry binned and tested at 85 degrees C which can simplify luminaire design calculations and speed time-to-market. With a 9mm x 9mm footprint, the MT-G LED delivers up to 560 lumens at 1.1A at 85 C or up to 1525 lumens at 4A at 85 C in warm white (3000K). Samples are available immediately and production volumes are available with standard lead times.
Read More >>
The XLamp MT-G LEDs are optimized for 35-50 Watt halogen MR16 retrofit bulbs and other accent, track, display and down lighting used in retail stores, residential settings, museums, art galleries, hospitality and landscapes and are the first commercial LEDs to deliver sufficient light output for these applications.
The multi-die XLamp MT-G LED features Cree EasyWhite technology to deliver consistent color in a small, highly efficient package. This innovative LED is designed for the high-lumen, small-footprint requirements of 35 and 50 Watt halogen retrofit lamps. Cree engaged driver, thermal and optic providers to create an MR16 lamp reference design to further enable its LED customers to quickly address this market. The reference design is available for free at mtg.cree.com.
“To date, there are no energy-efficient alternatives for many high-lumen, small form-factor, directional lighting applications. Until now, LED-based MR16 lamps have been a tremendous challenge for the lighting design community in terms of both light output and color consistency due to their small size and limited capacity for thermal management,” said Paul Thieken, Cree, director of marketing, LED components. “Cree developed this LED from the ground-up with applications like these in mind, and its introduction signals the arrival of the LED lighting revolution in these high-profile markets.”
The XLamp MT-G LED is the first in the industry binned and tested at 85 degrees C which can simplify luminaire design calculations and speed time-to-market. With a 9mm x 9mm footprint, the MT-G LED delivers up to 560 lumens at 1.1A at 85 C or up to 1525 lumens at 4A at 85 C in warm white (3000K). Samples are available immediately and production volumes are available with standard lead times.
CFP: The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances Special Issue on Library Marketing and Strategic Market Planning
CFP: The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances Special Issue on Library Marketing and Strategic Market Planning
The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances will be publishing a special issue on library marketing and strategic market planning. TBL is an Emerald publication that explores the business management side of libraries and it’s role in their success. The editor of this special issue is looking for articles that consider, theoretically or practically, the role marketing and marketing strategy plays in the success and viability of library organizations of all kinds. Articles can be of any length and should feature new or innovative ideas regarding the idea of marketing the library and its services in ways that promote value, aid in the implementation of strategic plans or promote more effective delivery of patron/customer need. Preference will be given to articles that explore the applicability of sales and marketing ideas in non-library environments that inform and bolster what we collectively know about library marketing, in order to consider it in a fresh way. Ideal topics include:
• Community-based social marketing
• Sales and personal selling in library environments
• Social networks and library marketing
• Selling or marketing non-tangibles
• Services marketing strategy and planning
• Applying POS and retail concepts to library marketing
• Merchandising
• Value creation
• Customer orientation
• Consumer behavior
• Market research strategies
• Marketing virtual library services
• Focus groups, surveys and best practices for understanding patrons
• Selling the library to cultivate/raise funds
• Cost-benefit analysis of services, materials etc.
• New product/service development
• Non-revenue based conceptual sales
• Preference marketing
• Benefit driven marketing
• Market planning and innovation
• Strategic planning and the marketing function
• The role of selling in library promotions
If you are interested in contributing, please send the editor your name, a short proposal of the topic, and a tentative title for the article. Deadline for proposals is April 15, 2011 with priority attention given to earlier submissions. Articles would be due to the editor by August 1, 2011 and submitted online at http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tbl. Any questions can be directed to the special edition’s editor at mgerman@calstatela.edu. Thank you.
Michael Germano
California State University, Los Angeles
mgerman@calstatela.edu
Read More >>
The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances will be publishing a special issue on library marketing and strategic market planning. TBL is an Emerald publication that explores the business management side of libraries and it’s role in their success. The editor of this special issue is looking for articles that consider, theoretically or practically, the role marketing and marketing strategy plays in the success and viability of library organizations of all kinds. Articles can be of any length and should feature new or innovative ideas regarding the idea of marketing the library and its services in ways that promote value, aid in the implementation of strategic plans or promote more effective delivery of patron/customer need. Preference will be given to articles that explore the applicability of sales and marketing ideas in non-library environments that inform and bolster what we collectively know about library marketing, in order to consider it in a fresh way. Ideal topics include:
• Community-based social marketing
• Sales and personal selling in library environments
• Social networks and library marketing
• Selling or marketing non-tangibles
• Services marketing strategy and planning
• Applying POS and retail concepts to library marketing
• Merchandising
• Value creation
• Customer orientation
• Consumer behavior
• Market research strategies
• Marketing virtual library services
• Focus groups, surveys and best practices for understanding patrons
• Selling the library to cultivate/raise funds
• Cost-benefit analysis of services, materials etc.
• New product/service development
• Non-revenue based conceptual sales
• Preference marketing
• Benefit driven marketing
• Market planning and innovation
• Strategic planning and the marketing function
• The role of selling in library promotions
If you are interested in contributing, please send the editor your name, a short proposal of the topic, and a tentative title for the article. Deadline for proposals is April 15, 2011 with priority attention given to earlier submissions. Articles would be due to the editor by August 1, 2011 and submitted online at http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tbl. Any questions can be directed to the special edition’s editor at mgerman@calstatela.edu. Thank you.
Michael Germano
California State University, Los Angeles
mgerman@calstatela.edu
SQL Server “Denali” Integration Services – Projects and Parameters
Some previous posts in this blog have discussed new features in the SQL Server “Denali” database engine. For this post however, I want to focus on some of the key enhancements in SQL Server “Denali” Integration Services (SSIS). SSIS first appeared in SQL Server 2005 as an evolution of the Data Transformation Services (DTS) component in previous releases, and has steadily become a core element of Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) operations for many data warehousing implementations.
The big news in the “Denali” release of SQL Server Integration Services, is a whole new deployment model for SSIS solutions. In previous releases, the only available unit of deployment is the package (a .dtsx file), and this could be deployed either to the file system or to the MSDB database in a SQL Server instance. This single-package deployment model is at-odds with the development model for SSIS solutions, in which a developer can create a single project that contains multiple packages. Prior to “Denali”, each package must be deployed and any variables that need to be set at runtime must be managed through a package configuration for each individual package. SSIS in “Denali” still supports this “legacy” deployment model, but now also supports project-level deployment to a the new Integration Services Catalog, and project-level parameters that can be used to set variables across multiple packages within a project.
The first thing you need to do to take advantage of this new deployment model, is to create an Integration Services catalog on an instance of SQL Server. The Integration Services catalog is a central database in which SSIS projects can be stored and managed, and you can have one catalog per SQL Server instance. The Integration Services catalog uses the SQLCLR (the .NET common language runtime hosted within SQL Server), so you need to enable this first by using the following Transact-SQL:
sp_configure 'show advanced options', 1;
GO
RECONFIGURE;
GO
sp_configure 'clr enabled', 1;
GO
RECONFIGURE;
GO
Now you’re ready to create an Integration Services catalog, which you can in SQL Server Management Studio as shown here.
When you create the Integration Services catalog, you’re prompted for a password that can be used to protect the databases master key used to encrypt the data.
After clicking OK, refreshing the Object Explorer view reveals two new items as shown here. The first is a database named SSISDB, and the second is an SSISDB node beneath the Integration Services folder. The database is a regular SQL Server database that contains a number of tables, views, and stored procedures that you can use to manage and run SSIS projects and packages stored in the catalog. It is also where the projects and packages in your catalog are physically stored. The SSISDB node under the Integration Services folder provides a management interface for the catalog and enables you to define a logical folder structure for your catalog.
To create a folder in your catalog, simply right-click the SSISDB node under the Integration Services folder, and click Create Folder. Here I’ve created a folder with the imaginative name My Folder. Note that subfolders named Projects and Environments have automatically been created – we’ll return to these later.
OK, so now we have an Integration Services catalog that contains a folder to which we can deploy an SSIS project; so I guess it’s time we went ahead and created a project to deploy. For our purposes, we’ll create a simple SSIS project that includes a data flow task that extracts the list of database names from the sysdatabases system view in the master database and copies it to a table in another database. I’m going to copy the database list to a table in a database called CmSampleDB, and to make matters a little more interesting, I’m going to create two tables that can act as the destination for the list – one to be used when testing the SSIS solution, and another to be used in production. We’ll design the SSIS project to support a project-level parameter so you can specify which table to use at runtime. Here’s my Transact-SQL code to create the destination tables:
USE CmSampleDB
GO
CREATE TABLE TestDBList
(name nvarchar(250))
GO
CREATE TABLE DBList
(name nvarchar(250))
GO
Now we can go ahead and create the SSIS project using SQL Server Business Intelligence Development Studio (BIDS). Creating an SSIS project in “Denali” is exactly the same as in previous versions, just select the Integration Services Project template as shown here:
When the new project is created, it will contains a single package named Package.dtsx, which you can rename to suit your own requirements – I’m going
So far, nothing is very different from how you would create an SSIS project in previous releases of SQL Server, but here’s where we’re going to use a new feature – Project Parameters. Project parameters are, as the name suggests, parameters that can be used to pass variable values to the project at runtime. Because these parameters are scoped at the project level, they can be used by any package in the project. To add a project parameter, right-click the project in Solution Explorer and click Project Parameters, or click Project Parameters on the Project menu. Either of these actions displays the Parameters pane as shown here:
As you can see, I’ve used this pane to create a project-level parameter named TableName with a default value of TestDBList. This default value is more correctly known as the Design default value, since it’s used when I run the project within BIDS. When I deploy the project, I can set a Server default value that will override this one when packages in this project are run on the server.
Now I need to create the data flow task that copies the database names from sysdatabases in the master database to the table indicated by the TableName parameter in the CmSampleDB database. To do this I just need to drag a Data Flow task to the design surface of My Package.dtsx as shown here:
Next, I’ll double-click the data flow task to view the data flow design surface, and use the Source Assistant item on the SSIS Toolbox to create a new connection to the master database on my SQL Server instance. Then I can configure the OLE DB source that gets created to extract the name column from the sysdatabases system view by using the following SQL command:
SELECT name FROM sysdatabases
The data flow surface now looks like this:
Next I’ll use the Destination Assistant to add a connection to the CmSampleDB database on my SQL Server instance, and connect the output from the source to the destination as shown here:
To complete the data flow, I need to configure the destination to insert the output from the source into the table specified in the project-level TableName parameter, as shown here:
Now I’m ready to build and deploy the project to the Integration Services catalog I created earlier. Building the project in BIDS creates a .ispac file, which you can then import into the catalog using SQL Server Management Studio, or deploy directly to the catalog from BIDS by clicking Deploy on the Project menu (or by right-clicking the project in Solution Explorer and clicking Deploy). Whichever approach you use, deployment to the catalog is accomplished via the Integration Services Deployment Wizard. After the Welcome screen, the wizard prompts you to select the project you want to deploy – in this case, the .ispac file I just built.
Next, the wizard loads and validates the project before prompting you for the destination. This consists of the server where the Integration Services catalog is hosted, and the path to the folder where you want to deploy the project. Here, I’ve select the My folder folder i created earlier.
Finally, the wizard prompts you to set Server default values for any project parameters. You can use the Design default value, specify a new value, or use an environment variable. We’ll look at environment variables shortly, but for now I’ve set the Server default value for the TableName parameter to DBList.
Completing the wizard deploys the project to the catalog, which you can verify in SQL Server Management Studio. note that the project is actually saved to the Projects sub-folder of the path specified in the wizard, and that all packages within the project are deployed as a single unit.
The final thing I want to do is to define a test environment and a production environment that can be used to control the execution context for the project. To do this, I’ll right-click the Environments folder and click Create Environment. Using this approach I’ve created two environments called Test and Production.
You can edit the properties of each environment to create environment variables, which in turn can be used to set project parameters when project packages are run in the context of the environment. For example, here I’m creating an environment variable named tName in the Test environment with a value of TestDBList. I’ve also created an environment variable with the same name in the Production environment and assigned the value DBList.
Finally, I can hook the environments up to the project by editing the properties of the project in the Integration Services catalog and adding environment references, as shown here…
… and setting parameters to get their values from environment variables as shown here (note that in the CTP release, you must click OK after adding the environment references on the References page before re-opening the Properties window and changing the parameter value on the Parameters page):
So now we have a project deployed to our Integration Services catalog. The project contains two packages - one of which doesn’t actually do anything, and another that copies the list of database names from the sysdatabase system view in the master database to a table in the CmSampleDB database. There is a project-level parameter that is used to indicate which table the database names should be copied to, and this is set to TestDBList or DBList depending on the environment that the package is executed in. To test this, I can right-click My Package.dtsx in Object Explorer and click Run, which produces the following dialog box:
Note that I can select the environment reference I want to use, which will determine the value of the tName environment variable, which will in turn set the value for the TableName project parameter and ultimately determine which table the data is copied to. For this example, I’ll select the Test environment and run the package, and the data is coped to the TestDBList table as shown below:
To review past operations in the catalog, you can right-click SSISDB under the Integration Services folder in Object Explorer and click Operations. This shows a list of all operations that have been performed in the catalog in reverse order of occurrence, so in this example you can see that a project was deployed and then a package was executed.
Double-clicking an entry in the list reveals more information about the operation. For example, here’s the details for the package execution:
Note that clicking the Parameters tab shows the parameter values that were used for this particular execution:
I’ve used this article to give you a quick tour of the new deployment model for SSIS and how you can use project parameters and environment variables to create a more flexible but manageable ETL solution with SSIS in SQL Server “Denali”. For more information about what’s new in SSIS in “Denali”, see SQL Server Books Online.
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