FLAC
http://flac.sourceforge.net/
The Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC) is a method of compressing audio data. Whereas the widely known MP3 format sacrifices sound quality for a smaller compressed size, FLAC does not lose information in the encoding process. FLAC is an open source software project, and its homepage contains downloadable encoding utilities for most common operating systems. An excellent overview of the FLAC format is given, which explains the underlying architecture and features of the codec. This section also provides links to background information and research papers upon which the development of FLAC was based. Thorough documentation is included online. [CL]
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Microengines: The Batteries of the Future [Windows Media Player]
http://www.research-tv.co.uk/nano_story_template.html
Researchers at the University of Birmingham School of Engineering have developed microengines, a breakthrough in nanotechnology that has the potential to eventually replace the conventional battery. This short video summarizes the characteristics and uses for this remarkable innovation. Microengines reportedly have "over 300 times more energy than an ordinary battery, and are much lighter and smaller." They have an extraordinary range of applications, such as mobile phones or powering microrobots for military reconnaissance operations. One of the researchers describes the microengines as being able to run off cigarette lighter fuel while being much more energy efficient than current batteries. Several other fascinating research projects are highlighted on the Research-TV Web site. [CL]
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Society for Experimental Mechanics [pdf]
http://www.sem.org/PUBS_ArtDownload.asp
The Society for Experimental Mechanics offers this large collection of articles that were selected from one of its primary publications. Each article is either part of the Back-to-Basics series, which provides an informative guide to common practices, or "a feature series based upon a unifying technique, application, or theme." The content is suitable for professionals, students, or anyone with a decent background in the principles of mechanics. Nearly 80 articles are available free for download. [CL]
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NetSeminar Services [Windows Media Player, RealOne Player]
http://webevents.broadcast.com/cmp/wcs/
NetSeminar is a valuable resource for industry professionals or anyone working in a high-tech field. The Web site serves as a hub for Webcasts delivered by a multitude of prominent companies, including Texas Instruments, Intel, and IBM. Most days of the week have one, and often more, live events scheduled and they are free to anyone who completes a brief registration. The Webcasts are generally between 60 and 90 minutes in length, and there is an option to submit questions interactively during the broadcast. Users can view past events via the online archive. [CL]
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Turbulence: Commissions and Supports Net Art [Macromedia Flash Reader]
http://www.turbulence.org/
The Turbulence project acts as an online gallery for Internet artwork. Since it was formed in 1996 by New Radio and Performing Arts, Inc., it has "commissioned, exhibited and archived over 60 original works." When browsing the collection, visitors will notice that the themes of the works vary widely, ranging from highly expressionistic to more analytical in nature. Many of the items incorporate interactive elements or multimedia animation, but they all stem from Internet related theory and technologies. In addition to displaying the artwork, Turbulence includes interviews with the artists and reviews of their works. [CL]
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RF-ID Information
http://www.rf-id.com/info.htm
Radio Frequency Identification (RF-ID) is a fairly well established technology that, until recently, has not seen widespread penetration into product identification and tracking markets. However, the past couple years have seen significant growth in RF-ID applications, as it has become preferable to systems based on barcodes and serial numbers. This Web site is designed to give people a better understanding of what RF-ID is and where it can be used. An excellent overview of the technology is presented, showing the general architecture and communication between the tag and transponder. Possibly the most useful part of the site is the Application Examples section, which discusses RF-ID uses in airline baggage systems, automobile security, and even "beer keg tracking." A few short articles are also given, but they are a bid dated. [CL]
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CircuiTree [pdf]
http://www.circuitree.com/
CircuiTree is a monthly magazine that covers technical news and developments related to the printed circuit board (PCB) industry. Most of the magazine's content can be freely accessed from its homepage, and additional Web-only features are also available. Common topics addressed in each issue include flexible circuitry, optoelectronics, packaging trends, and much more. The July 2003 edition has an interesting cover story on the U.S. military's use of electronics in its advanced devices, and the aging PCB's and component technologies associated with such electronics. CircuiTree also hosts an active forum for users to exchange ideas, however a brief registration is required to participate. [CL]
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World Federation of Great Towers [Macromedia Flash Reader]
http://www.great-towers.com/
The World Federation of Great Towers (WFGT) "is an association of international monuments which join together to foster global awareness and develop international opportunities for promotion." The organization provides this eye-catching site that contains detailed information and pictures of over twenty towers from around the world. After giving a brief background summary of each tower's location and notable characteristics, specifications and technical data are provided to give an impression of the scale of the structures and the engineering skill that was needed in their construction. Although only the buildings that are members of the WFGT are featured online, the collection does a good job of capturing some of the most impressive towers in existence. [CL]
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