http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for encapsulated Copyright 2008 Sat, 30 Aug 2008 04:31:42 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/encapsulated http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index#comments Thu, 29 Mar 2007 09:44:00 +0000 mdiip infrastructureudp packetjitteruser datagram protocoldfmlr http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index MDI - Media Delivery Index

Media Delivery Index is an open standard for use in quality assurance of IP video systems.

MDI is designed to address the problem of monitoring IP-encapsulated video signals in a live system.

The RFC (RFC 4445) for MDI details the technicalities of this in depth, but the issue of how this applies to real systems is more useful for many people, and that is the aim of this article.

The problem:

The fundamental problem when delivering IP encapsulated video across a network is that losing one IP packet results in multiple media packet loss.

UDP (User Datagram Protocol) based systems tend to encapsulate up to 7 188 (or 204) Byte Mpeg Transport Stream packets per udp packet. This means that losing one udp packet could result in 7 media packets being lost.

Loss of the media packets means that content is lost and the STB (set top box) or other end device must handle this as well as it can. Depending on the actual content of the packets (video, voice, data, stuffing) at the time, the impact will be different.

In an ideal world -- NO packets (IP or otherwise) would be lost across the network.

The biggest contributing factor to packet loss on a network is Jitter. Jitter is a increased packet delivery time caused by buffering on the video flows by network equipment across the IP infrastructure.

If jitter is added to the flows, each network device will need to have an accordingly increased buffer size in order to store the ip packets and forward them along the network (while aggregating or removing flows which are going to or from that section of the network).

MDI therefore has 2 main components -- MDI-MLR (Media Loss Rate), and MDI -- DF (delay factor -- or cumulative jitter).

MDI - MLR relates to the mpeg packets being lost and their rate.

MDI -- DF relates to the current buffer size required for a flow at that point in the network. This component is a number in Milliseconds (mS) and is dependant on the bitrate of the stream being monitored.

Since DF relates to stream bitrates and network jitter, this value changes (gets lower) as streams of higher bitrates are used.

This is an important consideration as it can be a great indicator of impending problems, and also alludes to the fact that your network jitter will have a different impact of streams of different bitrates.

This issue also means that just because your network can deliver Standard Definition Mpeg streams, you cannot make the assumption that High Definition streams will also be ok. (they tend to be higher bitrate and thus the network jitter will affect them more).

MDI was co-authored by Cisco (World dominating network hardware providers) and Ineoquest (World leading video monitoring solutions company) and is used by most proficient solutions providers and in most Quality Of Service (QOS) equipment.

Since MDI caters for both the IP layer and the Mpeg layer of monitoring, it is a very scalable and robust metric to use. Andrew Henry is an IPTV consultant and runs an iptv information site at http://www.iptvanswers.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index#comments Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:39:59 +0000 mdiip infrastructureudp packetjitteruser datagram protocoldfmlr http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-is-mdi-media-delivery-index MDI - Media Delivery Index

Media Delivery Index is an open standard for use in quality assurance of IP video systems.

MDI is designed to address the problem of monitoring IP-encapsulated video signals in a live system.

The RFC (RFC 4445) for MDI details the technicalities of this in depth, but the issue of how this applies to real systems is more useful for many people, and that is the aim of this article.

The problem:

The fundamental problem when delivering IP encapsulated video across a network is that losing one IP packet results in multiple media packet loss.

UDP (User Datagram Protocol) based systems tend to encapsulate up to 7 188 (or 204) Byte Mpeg Transport Stream packets per udp packet. This means that losing one udp packet could result in 7 media packets being lost.

Loss of the media packets means that content is lost and the STB (set top box) or other end device must handle this as well as it can. Depending on the actual content of the packets (video, voice, data, stuffing) at the time, the impact will be different.

In an ideal world -- NO packets (IP or otherwise) would be lost across the network.

The biggest contributing factor to packet loss on a network is Jitter. Jitter is a increased packet delivery time caused by buffering on the video flows by network equipment across the IP infrastructure.

If jitter is added to the flows, each network device will need to have an accordingly increased buffer size in order to store the ip packets and forward them along the network (while aggregating or removing flows which are going to or from that section of the network).

MDI therefore has 2 main components -- MDI-MLR (Media Loss Rate), and MDI -- DF (delay factor -- or cumulative jitter).

MDI - MLR relates to the mpeg packets being lost and their rate.

MDI -- DF relates to the current buffer size required for a flow at that point in the network. This component is a number in Milliseconds (mS) and is dependant on the bitrate of the stream being monitored.

Since DF relates to stream bitrates and network jitter, this value changes (gets lower) as streams of higher bitrates are used.

This is an important consideration as it can be a great indicator of impending problems, and also alludes to the fact that your network jitter will have a different impact of streams of different bitrates.

This issue also means that just because your network can deliver Standard Definition Mpeg streams, you cannot make the assumption that High Definition streams will also be ok. (they tend to be higher bitrate and thus the network jitter will affect them more).

MDI was co-authored by Cisco (World dominating network hardware providers) and Ineoquest (World leading video monitoring solutions company) and is used by most proficient solutions providers and in most Quality Of Service (QOS) equipment.

Since MDI caters for both the IP layer and the Mpeg layer of monitoring, it is a very scalable and robust metric to use. Andrew Henry is an IPTV consultant and runs an iptv information site at http://www.iptvanswers.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secrets-of-choosing-ribbon-fiber http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secrets-of-choosing-ribbon-fiber#comments Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:43:17 +0000 fusion splicersribbon cablesribbon fiberglass fibersquality ribbonfiber deploymentoptical fibers http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-secrets-of-choosing-ribbon-fiber
It's not the material cost. It's the labor! The introduction of fiber into the subscriber loop has increased the installation of short cable lengths with large number of splices. The speed at which the cables can be placed, spliced, accessed and reconfigured are becoming extremely important.

So the need for new technologies that promise to reduce the fiber deployment cost are very high. Bell companies are anxious on acquiring these new technologies and products in order to reduce their cost and push the broadband fiber optic network installation.

That is where the high fiber count ribbon cables come to play. These compact, UV epoxy bonded cables are comprised with high precision optical fibers and can be massed fusion spliced with minimum loss. These products have proven to be an excellent platform for FTTH deployment.

Mass fusion splicing machines from Japanese companies are a integrated part of this process. These fusion splicers are used by the fiber installation technicians to splice up to 24 fibers at a time with very low splice loss.

Ribbon Fiber Design

The most basic requirement for any fiber optic cable design is to protect the glass fibers inside from harsh environment. But for ribbon fibers, there is the other vital requirement: organize the fibers for optimum space efficiency and ease of mass fusion splicing and handling. And at the same, they must also be able to maintain the optical performance and mechanical reliability.

This means that ribbon fiber cables must pack high count of glass fibers, organize fibers precisely for mass fusion splicing, provide individual fiber identification, can be divided into single fibers or subunits, mechanically reliable and can be easily accessed from the end or midspan.

These requirements must all be met at the same time which makes the manufacturing of high quality ribbon fibers a tough task.

So fiber cable specialists concluded a excellent design. A color coded array of fibers bonded in a line with fiber coating material. Based on this fundamental structure, two designed emerged: edge bonded or encapsulated.

Edge Bonded Design

The edge bonded design basically bonds the fibers together with only materials in between of each fiber. This design is more popular in the United States. This design is 40% smaller than the encapsulated design.

Encapsulate Design

In encapsulate design, bonding materials extend well beyond the gaps between fibers, it actually encapsulates all fibers inside a rectangular looking tube. This design are more used in Japan.

Ribbon Fiber Mass Fusion Splicing

The time savings for ribbon fiber mass fusion splicing are so big that sometimes in the field individual fibers are ribbonlized to make mass fusion splicings.

However, the success of mass ribbon fiber splicing relies critically on the fiber geometry, the ribbon and the mass fusion splicer. High quality and consistent mass fusion splices can only be produced with ribbons that are made from fibers having stringent geometric tolerances.

These high quality fibers and ribbons are already commercially available. And they make the fiber deployment in FTTH projects a joy for the installers.Colin Yao is an expert on fiber optic technologies and products. Learn fiber furcation, fiber optic furcation, furcation tubing on Fiber Optics For Sale Co. web site.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-necessity-of-printer-ink http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-necessity-of-printer-ink#comments Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:17:05 +0000 computer supply storesfrequent salescomputer printerscolored inkhandwritten documentsquality printerprinter manufacturer http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-necessity-of-printer-ink computer printers and gives us our letters, photos, reports, homework =96 you name it. Handwritten documents are a thing of the past. Today everything we do is on the computer and without the necessary printer ink to bring them into the world, we would be lost.

Printer ink is encapsulated within the printer and, when called upon, delivers both black and colored ink onto the paper. Replacing the printer ink is something that has to be done periodically and, all told, can be one of the biggest expenses associated with a computer printer. Depending on your printer's ink consumption =96 largely contingent on its role as a frequently used work printer or a minimally used home printer =96 you could be spending quite a bit of money on a regular basis.

Finding quality printer ink that won't break the bank can be a bit of a challenge. First and foremost, lower quality printer ink can clog your printer and ultimately cause it to malfunction. Any savings you receive purchasing printer ink of this kind would be lost in the expense of having to repair or replace your printer.

Begin by going straight to the printer manufacturer. The company will have a vested interest in upholding the standards of their brands so you know that the printer ink will be the quality best suited for your printer. Often you will find they offer a variety of discounts to owners of their particular printers; look for frequent sales as well.

Large retail computer supply stores are another great resource for finding printer ink. You may find periodic deals that will save you some money. Just be sure that you visit the store with the name, brand, and associated number of the printer ink that is compatible for your printer; you will save quite a bit of time this way.

Of course, the Internet also has access to a variety of deals on printer ink. Just be sure that the company you are dealing with is reputable and the printer ink you are purchasing is of quality.

Printer ink is literally the fuel that enables your printer to do its job. Keep your supply stocked and ready to go at all times! For easy to understand, in depth information about printers visit our ezGuide 2 http://printer.ezguide2.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/enjoyment-from-resume-cover-letter-writing-in-3-steps http://www.artwoo.com/article/enjoyment-from-resume-cover-letter-writing-in-3-steps#comments Sun, 15 Jul 2007 04:20:01 +0000 resume cover lettercover letter writingwriting a cover letterthings to rememberknowledgeablejob offersmindset http://www.artwoo.com/article/enjoyment-from-resume-cover-letter-writing-in-3-steps Resume cover letter writing can be a chore for most people. There are a lot of misconceptions that most people have when they are doing their resume cover letter. While there are some who put too little information out of fear, some people get confused with what to write and end up writing too many details about themselves that are not really needed in their cover letter.

Writing a cover letter can be quite tricky for beginners. But once a potential applicant gets used to doing it, job offers will just come pouring in left and right. There are a few things to remember, encapsulated in three easy steps for the cover letter layman.

Step One: Mind Your Mindset

Your mindset in making your resume cover letter will affect its ultimated outcome. One of the best ways to really make sure you get it right is by relaxing and not stressing yourself to get it right. Sure, we all have this pressure to write our best in order to get hired, but the cover letter is not the be all and end all of life. You need to realize that the cover letter is just part of the elements which can help you land that job. In making that cover letter, you do not really need to interweave a concoction of intricate stories or a long account of your qualifications. Just a simple letter containing your intentions of applying and willingness to be interviewed for the position is more than enough. The shorter your letter, the better. Save the specific details for your resume and make your cover letter as light and brief as possible. While there are some things which are worth highlighting, you will do well if you do away with things that make it unnecessarily lengthy and overbearing for your reader.

Step Two: Do your research

You cannot expect to be able to relax in doing your cover letter if you are not knowledgeable on what your are doing. The research does not only include templates on cover letters that you can pattern your intended cover letter from. It also includes your knowledge on the company, the position you are applying for and the person who will be handling your application papers. You just have to know beforehand what happens to your cover letter, how to write it, who will receive it and how it will be processed. This way, you will save up much time and you will worry less.

Step Three: Do your draft

Finally, after doing all that research and mind-setting for yourself, you go ahead and do the draft. It does not need to be perfect. Remember, this is just a draft and it is something you can modify in case you want to add up or remove some details. This draft is also something you can modify over time. You can customize it in one way or another so that you will be able to meet and cater specific needs of the various jobs you may be applying for.



These three things are fairly simple but useful in making your resume cover letter. More importantly, it do know that the cover letter is just icing to the cake. You need to have an equally meaty resume to be coherent enough for your cover letter, as well as the ability to carry yourself once you land that coveted interview slot. Mario Churchill is a freelance author and has written over 200 articles on various subjects. For more information about resume cover letter writing checkout http://www.amazing-cover-letters.com/cover_letter_resources/resume_cover_le= tter_writing.htm. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pods-to-start-a-great-day http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pods-to-start-a-great-day#comments Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:15:02 +0000 espresso podscoffee podspod sizecoffee podrich coffeecoffee tastecoffee industry http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pods-to-start-a-great-day coffee pod. Pods or coffee pods or espresso pods are a simple way to get a perfect espresso and with excellent results.

But for the beginners let's answer a simple question first i.e. what are coffee pods? Coffee pods are freshly roasted coffee, ground perfect, tampered to the correct pressure and then encapsulated in a paper. It is the beginning of a rich experience of the way you drink coffee.

The original pod was first designed by Illy caffe around 10 years ago. It was the year 1996 when Illy opened its idea to the coffee industry to bring a standard pod size to the market. Many coffee machine makers now offer adaptors with their machines to accept pods.

By using them in your machine not only can you guarantee perfect results, there is no mess and they help to look after your machine. In fact used ones can even be used as fertilizer for your garden as well. That is why a rich coffee taste is always benefiting.

If you are an espresso connoisseur by heart you can find a great relief with the coffee pods. As an espresso lover you understand that there are many ways of preparation where the espresso can get wrong, the grind, the measurement, freshness, the roast, tampering, temperature, water pressure are some areas which one has to watch out to make that special cup of coffee.

Now if you wonder what the best kind of coffee pod is, the answer is the home made one. Don't be shocked, it is true to the last drop of espresso. You can actually make them from your freshly roasted coffee beans. Although it is not that easy but it is sheer fun and little adventure to make one in your kitchen itself.

What you need is your favorite freshly roasted coffee beans perfectly grounded to fine powder, a sheet of filter paper and some kitchen tools. The first step to get a home made is to get the correct measuring scoop for the size of the pod. Take the coffee style filter paper sheet and put it in the scoop.

The next step is to find a glass bottle or something similar which can be used to pressure the paper in that scoop. If you have found the right size of glass jar (in most cases you will) center the filter around the jar and do it by putting the combination back in the scoop leaving a cup shaped filter paper in the scoop. Add one scoop, or about 2 teaspoons of your favorite ground coffee to this paper-filter-cup more or less to taste.

The typical coffee scoops that come with makers hold about 7 grams of coffee which is just about right. Give the cup a slight shake to evenly spread the grounds across the bottom of the filter, and then use your finger to gently fold over the extra filter material, completely covering the ground coffee. For a really well-formed pod, you can place the jar into the scoop one last time and press down really hard with the palm of your hand.

At last your favorite coffee pod is now ready to be put into the espresso machine to enjoy that rich taste of coffee. And who said coffee is not about fun. For more information visit our website http://www.COFFEEFUN.COM ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/achieving-worklife-balance http://www.artwoo.com/article/achieving-worklife-balance#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2007 18:27:06 +0000 glass ballswork life balancemythchoicesnirvanalittle boxeswrestle http://www.artwoo.com/article/achieving-worklife-balance
If you mean that Nirvana-like state where you are successful, fulfilled and happy at work and at home, the short, brutal answer is that you probably won't. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't wrestle with the issues.

There are lots of myths about work/life balance. Here they are, along with some of the corresponding realities.

The first myth is encapsulated in the language we use. The issue really isn't about work/life balance at all.

Reality: the problem is not about balancing work and life. It's about making choices about different parts of life and their importance just now. Work is a part of life. So is being a spouse, a friend, and a parent. So is caring for yourself and growing.

This is not balance like on a scale. This is balance like choosing the mix of ingredients that go into a fine salad or complex soup. The ingredients not only have their own flavor and texture, they also affect the flavor of other ingredients and contrast or complement the textures.

Myth: you can have it all.

Reality: you can have it all. But you probably can't have it all at once. There are times in your life when it's vitally important to pay attention to your career. At other times, family concerns may be more important. Sometimes the important thing is education. Sometimes it's putting back money for retirement.

I like to think of those choices as an act of juggling. Every now and then one of the balls you're juggling will drop to the floor because you're paying too much attention to the other balls. That's OK most of the time

But some of the balls you're juggling are glass balls. If they drop, they break, and often can't be put back together again. Relationships are often glass balls.

Myth: it's possible to keep life in little boxes and keep each one under control. Life is a collection of individual areas.

Reality: Life is a giant system made up of interconnected parts that affect each other. Life is about trade-offs.

If you take time to go to the gym, you can't use that time to shop for groceries. The money you spend on self-development courses will probably affect what you spend on vacation or what you put back for the college fund for your kids. When you're on a business trip, you can't be at the dance recital.

The trick is to make the choices yourself instead of letting them happen to you. Set your priorities. Make your choices in line with them. Many successful people, for example, believe that family time is important. They act on that belief by scheduling that time first, every year or month or week.

Myth: anyone can achieve a good level of balance if they work hard to do it.

Reality: In today's world, real andquot;balanceandquot; is often a luxury for those who have lots of money. It's true that money can't buy happiness, but money can buy a vacation where you spend time with the family. It can buy a housecleaner, cook, or nanny and free up time you can spend with your spouse. It can pay the tuition on a college degree.

That doesn't mean you can't achieve some balance in your life. It does mean that there are limits on what you can do. Shaking your fist at the sky about them will do very little good.

Myth: my company will help me achieve balance.

Reality: Many workplaces today are not much different than third grade classrooms. You may not need a hall pass to go to the restroom, but you probably need permission to take the afternoon off for a school field trip, or you have to lie about what you're doing and take a sick day.

If you're going to achieve any kind of work/life balance, it's going to be up to you. Set your priorities. Then make your choices based on those priorities. Wally Bock He works with a limited number of managers to help them improve their personal and business results (http://www.threestarleadership.com/coaching.htm). Request Wally's free Life Balance Analyzer (http://www.threestarleadership.com/lifebalanceanalyzer.htm ). ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-perfect-gift-engraved-zippo-lighters http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-perfect-gift-engraved-zippo-lighters#comments Wed, 25 Apr 2007 06:05:03 +0000 zippo lightersnascar busch series racenascar busch seriesnascar fanslighter60th anniversarynormandy france http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-perfect-gift-engraved-zippo-lighters lighters" rel="tag">Zippo lighters.

For 75 years, Zippo has been synonymous with lighters in America. This is because it has brought much innovation to the lighter industry. The common features include the hinged lid that effectively turns off the flame, the improved chimney that allows the flame to stay even on windy situations, the better design of the fuel tank adding to its efficiency, and the tough metal casing allowing ease of use, which also allows various engravings to be created on the surface.

The design of Zippo lighters hasn't changed much throughout the years. Some notable redesign though include the 1938 No. 10 Tall Table Lighter (4.5 inches tall, four times the capacity of usual lighters), and the 1950 Lady Bradford Table Lighter (targeted for women).

If your partner is also a collector, giving engraved Zippo lighters are also good investment. There are an estimated 4 million collectors of engraved Zippo lighters today, and the number is still growing due to the masterful creations on the lighter's metallic casing. Engravings usually commemorate an important historical event or celebrating a generation. And even if collecting is not your partner's thing, engraved Zippo lighters add intangible value compared to a normal present.

Here are some engraved Zippo lighters you should add to your gift bag:

2005 Zippo 200 =96 These lighters were created when the company sponsored the Zippo 200 NASCAR Busch Series Race. The engraving shows the Zippo 200 logo partnered with blazing red. This is perfect for the NASCAR fans.

2004 60th Anniversary D-Day - This lighter commemorates the 60 years of the D-day Invasion at Normandy, France. There is a laser engraving of a shield (written with a 60th Anniversary) together with a bottomed stamp styled from the 1940s. The design echoes the lighters supplied to the military during the Second World War. The history encapsulated in this lighter is fitting for those who have relatives who have fought during the time.

199 Our Century =96 This is the last engraved Zippo lighter collectible for the 20th century. Behind the fireworks area list of the years that span the century beginning with the founding of the Zippo Company on 1932 and ending in 1999. This is perfect for everyone who has shared most of his life in the last century.

1971 Peace =96 Not enough words to describe this one. The emblem has been the symbol of a generation of freedom and struggle to break from conventions. Just get them and feel the love.

Of course, if these officially engraved Zippo lighters don't fill your fancy, there's always personalized engravers found in the Net or in your local boutiques. Just bring your slim Zippo lighter and your wildest imagination. No design is bogus enough, especially if this will delight your most cherished one. Looking for personazlied zippos ( http://www.executivegiftshoppe.com/zippo-lighters.html )? Visit http://www.ExecutiveGiftShoppe.com and find different types of Zippo lighters like engraved zippos ( http://www.executivegiftshoppe.com/zippo-lighters-pure.html ) today. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/virtualization-can-be-better-than-the-real-thing http://www.artwoo.com/article/virtualization-can-be-better-than-the-real-thing#comments Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:57:28 +0000 computer hardware resourcesfunctional resourcesmultiple operating systemslegacy applicationsstorage memoryvirtual workavailable memory http://www.artwoo.com/article/virtualization-can-be-better-than-the-real-thing functional resources. This includes an instance of one machine able to use different characteristics to work as a single logical resource.

In most cases a work station or server only has a single operating system. For example, it could be Vista or XP for work stations, or it could be a Windows 2003 server. But what if you wanted a 'multi-lingual' server or work station? A computer can attain the ability to support multiple operating systems with the use of virtualization. That is, the virtual work station can handle either Vista or Windows 2000. Additinally, a server could alternately have multiple copies of Windows 2003 running, including one for your overall files, one to run the SQL, and another for your financial applications.

There is another important issue to consider when evaluating hardware capital investment: resources are the main factor driving today's work stations and servers. For this reason it is surprising to realize the unfortunate situation in today's business world: most computer hardware resources are greatly underutilized, with spare power to process and storage memory all left idle.

Most servers are working at only 15% capacity of the level of processing possible, and at 30% of the available memory. Virtualization maximizes these underutilized resources by forming a platform which enables encapsulated operating systems to max out your hardware capital. Addition of new servers is not necessary when the situation requires upgrades or additions, and instead new virtual servers can be added to the existing hardware. This can help to reduce costs in terms of new capital, energy use and storage space required for infrastructure.

Virtualization supplies small business with increased flexibility which cannot be supplied by a regular environment. There are plenty of businesses which use legacy applications which won't run on current operating system. A Windows NT, 98, or 2000 computer left running on the environment can cause big security risks and problems with administration - particularly if it's an old machine on an old operating system. These legacy applications can run virtually on another robust work station, instead of supporting a legacy work station. This makes them both secure and on-demand. Virtualization also enables you to build infrastructure without 'hardware sprawl.' If the company requires another server to accommodate growth or applications, you can annex a virtual server to the robust server, thereby keeping the implementation cost down because you won't need the next six-thousand-dollar server.

There are additional benefits to virtualization. For example, there is support for operating systems as varied as Unix, Linux, and Solaris, and complete work stations and servers can be made redundant or restored for ease of portability. These virtualized servers and work stations can be relocated to other machines without much difficulty in the case of system failure or the need to upgrade. It is possible to maximize these available resources and use virtualization to reach your resource availability goals.Nick Pegley is VP Marketing for All Covered: Technology Services Partner for Small Business, providing disaster recovery solutions and technology services in 20 major U.S. metro areas.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/vpn-explained-the-basics-of-vpn-simplified http://www.artwoo.com/article/vpn-explained-the-basics-of-vpn-simplified#comments Wed, 04 Jul 2007 05:25:01 +0000 share information with othersnetwork vpndictionary definitionstelephone wiresvirtual private networkt3 circuitswired network http://www.artwoo.com/article/vpn-explained-the-basics-of-vpn-simplified virtual private network, it can help to understand what is, and what is not, a VPN .

Using Webster's dictionary definitions of the component words, a VPN should have the following attributes:

Virtual - defined as "being such practically or in effect, although not in actual fact or name." Therefore, the first part of the answer to our question "what is a VPN" is that it is something that acts like a hard-wired network, but is actually not.

Private - defined as "of, belonging to, or concerning a particular person or group; not common or general." So, a VPN should be one where the consumer has exclusive use of the network links. (Note, this is different from a Secure Network, which may be a private or public network.)

Network - defined as "a system of computers interconnected by telephone wires or other means in order to share information." This is the goal of a VPN or any other type of network.

VPN explained in this manner is a network technology which gives the owner the ability to share information with others on the network by means of a private, exclusive link that is created by a method other than hard-wires or leased lines; usually via the internet. Before the internet, computers in different offices, cities or even countries could only talk to each other like people could - through telephone wires. As the needs for this type of communication grew, telephone lines became replaced by higher volume wires, like T3 circuits, but the concept was the same. For computer A to talk to computer B, there had to be a physical wire connection. For security reasons, you would want to make sure that only your 2 computers used that line, so you would contract with a vendor to "lease" that circuit. However, this type of network was expensive and difficult to expand, not to mention difficult for the client to have control over.

With the advent of the internet, connections no longer needed to be physical. As long as each computer has access to the internet, information can be shared using local ISP circuits, across the internet, and to the recipient in much the same way that it was when the computers were physically connected. This is why the way VPN works is considered a "virtual" network; the entire connection is not hard-wired.

The aspects of VPN explained in this article so far have not yet discussed an ever present concern in today's world - security. In an old WAN arrangement, the security of data transmission could rely entirely on the provider's guarantees. Today, however, a VPN keeps information private by means of encryption on both the sending and receiving end. There are a variety of encryption protocols, depending on what a company's needs are, who they need to communicate with (and therefore be compatible with), etc. The data is not only encrypted, but it is encapsulated, meaning it is sent in its own private "tunnel" or connection across the internet. No one can see the data, and even if they could, they can't decipher or change it. In this way, information can be sent across the internet without being susceptible to interception or corruption by those who are outside of the VPN.

In order to create a virtual private network, you would need to decide who needs to share information, in what directions, and how often. Next you would need to prepare a listing of the hardware and software systems you are currently using at each location. You might very well need to make changes so that the computers can talk to each other easily. You'll also want to consider just how important it is that your data remains secure, as this will have an impact on what type of protocol you select. Preparing this information will have you educated for the discussions you will need to have with potential vendors. Van Theodorou will help you slash your telecom expenses over 43% and assist or even become your telecom department at no cost to you. For a free analysis or phone consultation go his site at http://www.worldnet-long-distance.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-the-ideal-list-of-keywords http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-the-ideal-list-of-keywords#comments Sun, 07 Oct 2007 14:30:00 +0000 pay per click advertisinggoogle searchgoogle searchespay per clicke commerce businessoptimizecompetitors http://www.artwoo.com/article/building-the-ideal-list-of-keywords optimize their websites to show up on the first page of a Google search and they plan to use pay-per-click advertising to drive traffic to their new businesses. But before any of that can take place, an online business needs to start with a list of targeted keywords.

Keywords form the pillars of your online business identity. They're used to compare you with other businesses. They're used to determine where on a search results page you show up. They're used to assess a cost for your pay-per-click advertising and they're used to guide advertisement placement for other people's pay-per-click on your own site. Indeed, keywords are the cornerstone of an effective e-commerce business.

When an online business is launched, everything that is done needs to target a list of pre-selected targeted keywords chosen to best represent your business intentions while encountering minimum competition along the way. If the keywords are poorly targeted, you'll be inviting suboptimal visitors to your site. Yet, if you're targeting the most popular keywords in your area of expertise, the competition will drown you out or force you to pay much more to get noticed.

The success of failure will be directly affected by the keywords you choose and this article presents three different things you should do to build that list. It also presents these three strategies in a deliberate order, designed to optimize the process. Taking the time to work through this process BEFORE you launch your online business will save you countless hours and dollars later on.

First, run a few Google searches yourself, trying to find your competitors. Make note of the keywords you use in your searches as your prospective customers will likely do similar searches. Once you find your competitors, visit their websites, right click, select view source and copy the keywords they have listed in their own meta tags. Within minutes you could accumulate a long list of keywords. Highlight the ones you like the most.

Second, purchase a one-day subscription to WordTracker.com (for $8) and enter the highlighted words one by one. The website will provide a long list of related words for each word you entered. Print these lists out and keep them handy. You will eventually use these lists to optimize the text on your website.

Regardless what you're writing, you should get into the habit of using your keywords and related words whenever possible.

Third, go to the Google Keyword Tool in the Adwords platform. The tool is publicly available and can be accessed for free. Enter your favorite keywords in 2-word and 3-word combinations. The tool will provide long lists of related keyword phrases along with their usage frequency within live searches and the competition for purchasing those words for pay-per-click advertising. Even if you have no intention of doing such advertising, you can extrapolate the competition for those same keyword phrases for organic optimization.

By following these three steps, you will end up with a list of keyword phrases that are commonly used as search criteria but that encounter little competition from other e-commerce entrepreneurs. All of your subsequent efforts should then revolve around those phrases, ensuring your online business identity is properly represented and sufficiently encapsulated by them. Your online identity is driven by effective targeting and targeting is a function of keywords. Choose them wisely. Tactical Execution with Patrick Schwerdtfeger (http://www.tacticalexecution.com) is a strategic company focused on growth marketing and program implementation across business markets. Visit the website for actionable guidance for revenue generation. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/microsoft-dynamics-crm-v30-customer-relationship-management http://www.artwoo.com/article/microsoft-dynamics-crm-v30-customer-relationship-management#comments Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:43:59 +0000 customer relationship softwarecustomer relationship managementcustomer relationship management softwaremicrosoftgreat plains softwaredynamics softwareenterprise class http://www.artwoo.com/article/microsoft-dynamics-crm-v30-customer-relationship-management Customer Relationship Management software effectively implemented, provides business owners and management with an extremely powerful tool for bringing the front-office functions of sales, marketing and customer support together and working far more effectively as a combined team.

Many businesses think wrongly that a CRM solution is only for enterprise class concerns with large check books when in fact software providers such as Microsoft offer scaleable versions for all company sizes. Microsoft Dynamics Software has evolved from their enterprise class Great Plains software however versions have been developed and aimed specifically at the small and mid-range business market.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM v3.0 allows businesses to respond to the growing challenges in the modern business environment by bringing client and prospect information into a central repository, organizing the information and allowing users throughout the business to access the data when they need it. Microsoft Dynamics CRM v3.0 delivers the ability to manage the customer relationship throughout the entire sales cycle from initial enquiry in response to a marketing or sales campaign, through to pre-sales meetings, the actual sale and post sale issues such as delivery and repeat ordering.

Microsoft Dynamics software empowers every decision maker in your business to satisfy customer demands by providing the most up-to-date and accurate client information they need when they need it and ensure that the history of the relationship is encapsulated for all to share. Decision makers in this context need not necessarily be management but a customer service representative with a customer on the telephone asking about an order or information on your other products. All staff in contact with prospects and customers will be able to see at a glance what is happening with a particular account and in customer relations, knowledge is power. Customer relationship software provides everyone in your business with the ability to demonstrate an outstanding level of customer service not possible by traditional reporting methods.

The ability to integrate a customer relationship software solution with existing applications already employed by your business allows for the transfer of information between your word processor and spreadsheet applications and the CRM. Microsoft CRM software has been specifically designed with Microsoft Outlook and Office in mind, and allows a seamless user experience. Mobile workers reliant upon email are able to access Microsoft Dynamics CRM v3.0 via their Outlook client, while marketing and sales campaigns can use data imported from the Dynamics Suite directly into Microsoft Word and Excel applications for marketing campaigns and mail shots.

If your business has several office and site locations, it is still possible to implement a customer relationship software solution across the whole company. Microsoft Dynamics v3.0 is well adapted to be delivered to remote locations via Microsoft Terminal Services, Citrix and other "thin client" solutions. An example is where a business has a central warehousing facility in Detroit with sales offices in New York, San Francisco and Chicago and they all are able to utilise the customer relationship software solution almost in real-time.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM v3.0 benefits your business by saving time and costs, minimizing non-productive activity while maximizing sales revenue by ensuring that sales leads are followed up and do not get lost or "fall between the cracks", while customer retention is improved by enhancing customer relations and service. Syed Ali, is the lead CRM consultant for a Toronto based company. His company offers, http://www.crmsoftwareprovider.com, Microsoft CRM Software Syed can be reached at Tel : (905) 815- 1995 ext 22, email :asyed@cqsolutions.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/divx-video-format-explained http://www.artwoo.com/article/divx-video-format-explained#comments Sat, 23 Feb 2008 15:14:59 +0000 divxnetworks incopen source versiondivx multimediagerman hackermpeg4 versiondivx codecvideo codecs http://www.artwoo.com/article/divx-video-format-explained video codecs. Made extremely popular because of its ability to produce high quality video using lossy MPEG4 Part2 compression or MPEG4 ASP, DivX has cemented itself as one of the most popular multimedia codec for the home market.

DivX is known to create a balance between quality and file size with its highly efficient compression abilities. And because of that, it s one of the codecs used for ripping where audio and video are copied from a source to the PC hard disk for archiving and transcoding.

The commercial DivX competes with Microsoft's Video for Windows in WMV, Apple's QuickTime in the MOV and RealNetwork's Real Video in the RMM file formats. An open source version released by Xvid solutions in 2001 is the Xvid file format.

While DivX has long been renowned for its excellent video quality, its free and open source equivalent Xvid today offers comparable quality, also based on MPEG-4 Part 2 (MPEG-4 ASP). In a series of subjective quality tests at Doom9.org, the DivX codec has been successively beaten by Xvid every year since 2003.[11]

Confusion clarified

DivX are two different things from two different companies. One is DIVX created by Circuit City, a US electronics retail giant that attempted to market a DVD rental system that used special players and discs. And the other is the DivX multimedia codec trademarked and marketed by DivX, Inc. which is actually a reference to the failed Circuit City system.

A short history

DivX roots can be traced back to 1998 as a hacked version of Microsoft's MPEG4 version 3 which is inferior to the MPEG4 that we know today. It was a French hacker Jerome Rota who, rather than modify his video resume which could not play on the new Windows Media Player at that time, reverse-engineered the MPEG4 format together with a German Hacker Max Morice to come up with an MPEG4 format encapsulated in AVI instead of the ASF it originally had. It only took them a week. Between 1998 and 2002, the DVD hacking community had independent hackers enhance the format that later came to have the Divx with a smiley emoticon and#61514; attached as version 3.0.

In 2000, Rota was hired by Jorda Greenhall to form a company called DivXNetworks (later renamed to DivX, Inc.) based in the French Riviera. The association resulted in the OpenDivX codec a year later. Its source code was open to anyone and could be downloaded from the projectmayo.com website. The following year, the two left for San Diego and developed the OpenDivX software to become DivX version 4.0. Other developers took the Encore2 software to enhance the open source OpenDivX to arrive at the rival Xvid format.maintained by Xvid Solutions, Inc.

The DivX Company continued to enhance the DivX software that in 2002 has taken on the fifth version. By 2004, the features of the DivX format are as complete as we know it today. In May 2007, the Windows Vista version DivX 6.6 for the PC and the Mac was released.

The advantages and benefits of using DivX

DivX found itself at the heart of video piracy in the late 90s as its format became widely popular for ripping copyrighted DVD materials for bootleg replication and distribution. A number of generic DVD players as well as branded ones are claiming to play DivX materials.

What's so appealing about the format is that it's free. Same with the software players you can use to play it with. It belongs to the open source community together with Xvid offering competitive if not better quality. http://www.fxbear.com/video-converter.php for a free download of powerful video conversion software. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/crm-systems-merging-technologies-and-people http://www.artwoo.com/article/crm-systems-merging-technologies-and-people#comments Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:15:01 +0000 cutting edge systemsgeographical borderscommunication platformspurchasing suppliescrm systemssymbiotic relationshippurchase history http://www.artwoo.com/article/crm-systems-merging-technologies-and-people symbiotic relationship spurs business growth. A current example of this relationship is the CRM systems used by businesses, their personnel, suppliers, and customers.

Cutting-edge Systems

CRM is leading businesses out of the woods, so to speak. Business trends keep on changing and competition continues to be fierce. Industries need to survive and cut losses to a minimum or ride the crest towards profitably and sustainability. The CRM systems available make this goal doable but require right people to manage these.

The Internet-based systems for CRM are designed to fit into the business' current system making the transition seamless. Time cannot be spent waiting for the system to operate; hence, businesses opt for the web-based or hosted services, which are cost-effective compared to business-administered systems.

The CRM systems are designed to meet different business requirements, from data collecting and management, networking, installing better communication platforms, and extending business reach beyond geographical borders. Whether the systems are web-based or hosted, it will always have an impact on the business operations and people.

CRM Features

Everything that makes business efficient and dynamic have been conceived and encapsulated in CRM technology. Contrary to some unavoidable misconceptions, CRM systems are not merely about the collection and management of customer information, but it includes following their purchase history and purchasing trends.



CRM systems benefits different operations in the business such as accounting, purchasing, supplies, and people management, while streamlining operations. When everything is running in the same direction and is shared from the same viewpoint, there no room for errors. All operations are then centrally-managed towards a customer-focused agenda.

The system facilitate sales forecasts with applications that make review of expenses and revenues and availability of stocks. The system also feature information collection tools that improve data capture. The ease of information transference from leads to customers provides the backdrop for future sales plans and strategies.



Reports from the different operations will be consistent and accurate as information from the database are shared and constantly updated. The communications platform can absorb different modes, making the business available in many ways.

Customers can use the chat feature, send emails, fax, or call for service or product support. The flexibility of the system also allows the sharing of data with ACT and Microsoft Outlook.



The People Behind Technology

The people involved in the business have specific roles and use different tools to expedite their work. Delivery people are given the vehicles and mobile phones to ensure the fast delivery of orders and connectivity at all times. Accountants have their electronic gadgets to make computing easier and faster. At the CRM, people have to acquaint themselves with the management of data using the software. But all of them have to share information to keep the business wheel running.



Businesses need people who are reliable and have the integrity to keep business information in confidence. The risks of information theft and in-house sabotage are ever present.



Workers who are given the right working environment, training, and the tools to make their work easier become indispensable assets to any corporation or organization. Technology makes business grow, but people make these technologies better. Need CRM systems (http://www.crm-software-guide.com) and a small business solution (http://www.crm-software-guide.com/small-business-crm-solutions.htm)? For your car dealership, check out the automotive CRM software (http://www.crm-software-guide.com/automotive-crm-software.htm) from http://CRM-Software-Guide.com today. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-website-and-brand http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-website-and-brand#comments Wed, 06 Aug 2008 03:02:05 +0000 tyrells crispsdirect mailhillstationcustomer recognitionsearch phrasemedia televisionsmaller company http://www.artwoo.com/article/your-website-and-brand
Is it important?

What does brand mean anyway?

Does brand mean different things on the web than on TV say or other media like press?

Large companies spend large amounts establishing and supporting their brands, because it works. Brands bring customer recognition, trust, preference, loyalty, re-purchase, retention and thus future earnings. In these days of rapid change, people enjoy the sense of security that comes with a brand.

Lots of smaller companies know this too, companies like:

innocent: http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/,
Tyrells Crisps: http://www.tyrrellspotatochips.co.uk/,
Hill Station Ice Cream: http://www.hillstation.co.uk/.

Branding isn't just about logos, it's the entire "feel" associated with a company. As we say on our branding page, a brand "has to tell a story that the consumer wants to hear and can relate to, that can be encapsulated rationally and emotionally in a message that tells the story simply and quickly and that is then supported by the experience of the consumer". A brand is the whole experience.

On the web the experience a user has on the site is just as important -- perhaps even more important than the design of the site. Experience includes usability, navigation, follow up customer service, feelings of trust and much, much more.

When people visit a website they have generally got there via a search engine. This means they have used a particular search phrase, which also means they have some objective already in their mind.

Other media -- television, radio, press, door drops, direct mail and others -- must first catch your attention but when visiting a website there is a good chance that the visitor already has that objective in their mind, so what is important is not (just) being "highly creative" but, probably far more importantly providing the information and service that they expect.

In addition to this, especially if you are a smaller company and can't afford some of the more expensive "above the line" media such as TV, your website will be the first impression of your company, its products and services.

Thus, it really is the most essential element of your brand strategy. It communicates who you are, what you offer and what you promise. Its content, organization, usability, added value (that "X factor") and appearance all play a part in ensuring that potential customers feel positive towards you and begin to associate your company with a particular product or service and return to your site when they need the product or service you sell.

Of course a well branded site just happens doesn't it? Well....... no! It is, like everything in business hard work.

There are some things you really need to understand first:

Who will your visitors be?

What type of experience do they expect?

How internet experienced are they?

Do they know your products?

What stimuli do they respond to: emotional, intellectual or a combination?

What is their age, sex, nationality, religion, disposable income?

What do your competitors' sites look like?

What makes you better than them?

Why should customers buy from you?

What are the trends in your industry?

What is your company's personality?

Once you have got this information you need to analyse and sharpen it.

How can you really narrow your focus to a specific niche, target audience, offer, benefits and product range?

How can you divide your site into sections that will meet user needs and expectations and fill each section with the appropriate content?

How do you help visitors quickly and easily find the content they're looking?

What look, feel and tone of voice reflect your company and your brand?

Now you are "good to go", and we'd suggest: ready to brief a professional. If you'd like even more help and detail please download our Logo design and Web design questionnaires, they'll help you to fill in even more detail.Richard Hill is a director of E-CRM Solutions and has spent many years in senior direct and interactive marketing roles. E-CRM helps you to grow by getting you more customers that stay with you longer.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-write-ezine-articles-in-clusters http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-write-ezine-articles-in-clusters#comments Wed, 28 Nov 2007 01:25:01 +0000 puppy trainingezine articlesezine publishersezinesword countcentral topictime hard http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-write-ezine-articles-in-clusters Ezine articles and find producing them one at a time hard enough. However, writing articles in clusters is not difficult and, once you understand how it's done, you will enjoy the benefits. A group of articles written as a cluster can easily be turned into a series but for now we are looking at the how to produce a group of unique articles written at the same time around a central topic.

Some of the main benefits are as follows:

1. Writing articles in groups saves time when you are researching your subject;

2. It gives you space to fully develop a theme;

3. It gives you more unique content for your blog or website;

4. It gives you extra articles to submit to ezines or to sell.

When you write an article for publication in ezines, you have to keep the word count within certain guidelines (about 500-800 words is usually most acceptable). If your article is too long, ezines might not be prepared to give up the space required to reproduce it. If the article is too short, there is a danger Ezine publishers won't take it seriously. Cluster writing is definitely not about turning out a number of truncated Ezine articles instead of one full length one. Neither is it about stretching or padding your material (you'll only ever get a poor fit if you try that). It is about making full use of ideas and not wasting time or words.

If you are writing about a topic you know well, you will find yourself constantly having to edit your articles to keep the word count down. Instead of throwing away the excess material, paste it immediately into another document with a new title. I would suggest keeping the titles similar - eg "Puppy Training, Why To Do It" and "Puppy Training, When To Start", you can swiftly move on to "Puppy Training, The Best Methods" etc. Don't let the document get too big, anytime your word processor reaches page 2, it's time to think about breaking it into two.

As you write, be alert to any tendency to wander off topic. You might be writing about how it is one thing to have a cute puppy jump on your bed but quite a different experience when that pup has become a 10 stone hound with muddy paws. Suddenly you remember something about doggy vitamins. Instead of popping the idea into one of your puppy training articles as an aside, put it into another new document which you can later use as part of a new cluster about dog nutrition. With one quick "cut and paste" you have kept one article focussed on the main topic and saved an idea, which might otherwise have been wasted, for a new project.

If you are writing an article on an unfamiliar topic, you might think you won't have the problem of needing to cut down your article and will have trouble finding enough to say. However, if you undertake proper research about the subject matter (as you should if you want your article to be taken seriously), you are bound to come across material which relates to the article you have planned but does not quite fit it. Make notes of all this related material. If you get ideas for further articles as you are researching, make a note of these ideas. Research for article writing takes time, so make the most of it. Even if you can only manage two articles on an unfamiliar subject, it is two for the price of one.

Let's look at how to use just one passing idea as the basis for a group of articles. Take the thought "my first home business venture reminds me of Apollo 13". To make this idea into an article, we have to say what is behind the initial thought. Otherwise, the reader will be left thinking "What, it nearly got lost in space?" or "You were trying to land on the moon?". With no explanation or clarification, the idea is meaningless to anyone but you.

The thoughts behind the idea could be about a series of numerical coincidences in regard to events, about surviving near-disasters, about how duct tape solved a huge problem and about the power of prayer. With all these four things encapsulated in the idea, you have the basis of a four paragraph article. It does not require much of an imagination stretch to see that you could have the basis for four separate articles clustered around a central idea.

Never let an idea or a word go to waste. For the time and effort cluster writing saves, it is worth trying to use the technique even in the early days of your Ezine article writing career. Once you try it, you will realise it's even better than "buy one get one free". For more articles about writing go to http://www.elainecurrie.com/writingtips or visit Elaine Currie's best work At Home Ideas website http://www.HuntingVenus.com where you can pick up a free copy of Ezine Article Writing - 10 Steps To Success. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pod-makes-a-no-mess-perfect-cup http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pod-makes-a-no-mess-perfect-cup#comments Thu, 10 Jul 2008 05:50:51 +0000 coffee podssingle serving coffee makerscoffee coffeecoffee productionblend coffeeground coffeecup coffee http://www.artwoo.com/article/coffee-pod-makes-a-no-mess-perfect-cup Coffee pods look like round tea bags which contain the right amount of pre-packaged coffee beans, encapsulated in a paper pod. Designed for usage with single-serving coffee-makers, it allows the savoring of the flavor of your first cup. Pod brewing grows quickly due to the many top brands of coffee manufacturers that ensure a no-mess experience, for a perfect cup of coffee.

Coffee pods look like round tea bags which contain the right amount of pre-packaged coffee beans, encapsulated in a paper pod. Designed for usage with single-serving coffee-makers, it allows the savoring of the flavor of your first cup. Coffee Pods have a specially formulated filter paper which aims to maintain the freshness of ground coffee. It is circular in shape, and weighs from 8 up to 12 grams, with a 57mm up to 61mm in size. Oxygen is being removed in ground coffee in order to ensure the quality of the product.

Moreover, coffee pods have a variety you can choose from. This is with regards to its brew strength. This includes:

• Mild roast - a mild and delicious aromatic blend taste
• Medium roast - a natural and harmonious taste with a mild and balanced aromatic blend
• Dark roast - a smooth, full-bodied and robust blend. Coffee machines helps in the process of extracting the coffee pods. This is in balancing the ratio of coffee into the water in order to produce a rich frothy cup of coffee.

Historically, as far as 1000 AD, the introduction of coffee has become a part of the daily living in several countries. Since then, coffee has been transformed into many varieties. Hence, the birth of instant coffee finally took its toll in the year 1901. Producing 97% of the worlds output, Brazil became the world's largest producer of coffee since 1907. By 1920, America consumed 70% of the worlds coffee production.

Coffee pods come with different types. Such are:

•decaffeinated
•flavored
•dark
•medium
•light

Packs to choose from are as follows:

•all Pod Sampler Packs
•All Tea Pods
•All Pods

Now, manufacturers of coffee-makers help in ensuring the compatibility of coffee pods with certain coffee makers in the market. Manufacturers which introduced patented coffee makers with easy methods of brewing for different brands of coffee pods include the following:

•Senseo
•Melitta One
•BUNN

List of branded coffee pods are as follows:

Pod Coffee by Brew

1.Aloha Island Chocolate Macadamnia Nut Pod Coffee 100% Kona

Aloha Island Chocolate Macadamia Nut is a rich chocolate flavored coffee. A 100% Estate Kona Coffee with the right amounts of macadamia nut flavors. It is a medium roasted coffee with low acidic content. It is also pesticide free. It only costs $20.75.

2.Aloha Island Light Roast Pod Coffee 100% Kona

A 100% Kona coffee KONA_PODS that has a smooth texture and exquisitely flavored whole bean Kona. It is a light roast type that one can enjoy with a single serving of pod brewer, with a low acidic content and no pesticide. It's on sale price is $20.75.

3.Aloha Island Magnum Opus Diamond Private Reserve Pod Coffee 100% Kona

Aloha Island Magnum Opus Diamond is a very special tiny portion of the crop that qualifies as a Diamond selection of coffee. It is somewhat woodsy and smoky, making it rare and extraordinary. It has a 12 capacity box that is smooth. It is also called "dessert coffee". Aloha Diamond Pod Coffee is 100% Kona coffee and it is a light roast type which is low in acidity and has no pesticide. It only costs $22.95.

4.Aloha Island Magnum Opus Gold Pod Coffee 100% Kona

Aloha Island Magnum Opus Gold is 100% Pure Kona coffee which is very smooth, very rich and has an excellent depth of flavor. In order to develop the exquisite flavor and quality, selecting the top grades from the plantation and roasting it carefully is an excellent choice for daily morning and afternoon coffee breaks. It is also a medium roast coffee that is pesticide free. Plus, it possesses low acidity content. It only costs $19.95.

5.Aloha Island Magnum Opus Platinum Pod Coffee 100% Kona

Aloha Island Magnum Opus Platinum is made from a round-shaped and small coffee bean. This is manufactured in the big island plantation of Hawaii. It is 100% estate Kona coffee it possesses low acidity and no pesticide content. It is also a light roast type that has 12 pieces inside its box. It only costs $21.95.

6.Aloha Island Variety Pack 100% Kona

Flavors of this type include:

•French Vanilla
•Espresso roast
•Chocolate Macadamia Nut
•Decaf
•Dark roast
•Medium roast
•Light roast
•Hazelnut

Aloha Island Variety Pack has 12 pieces inside its box. It only costs $23.95.

7.Baronet Galapagos Pod Coffee

Baronet Galapagos Pod Coffee is grown from San Cristobal in Galapagos, only 600 miles from Ecuador. It is an exceptional, medium roasted, organic chemical and pesticide free coffee that possesses buttery sweetness, making it silky and full. It only costs $10.75.

8.Baronet Pod Coffee French Roast Decaf

A dark roasted coffee with a full body blend of the South and Central Americas. Its on sale price is only $5.90 for every sleeve of 18 pods.

9.Baronet Pod Coffee Mint Chocolate Chip

This is a smooth, rich chocolate with refreshing mint taste. It is much better than an ice cream. It is also a light roast coffee that consists of 18 pods per sleeve. Its on sale price is only $5.90.

10.Dallmayr Crema d'Oro Coffee Pods

This is a delight as Café Crema. It is a balanced blend of the finest beans. It is also a medium roasted coffee equipped a gentle technique in order to produce a fine light-velvety crema. It only costs $ 4.85 for each. Its box has 16 pieces.

11.Fratello Christmas Morning Coffee Pods

Fratello Christmas Morning Coffee is a rich festive creation with orange and cinnamon. It is a lightly roasted coffee with 18 pieces of pods in a box.

12.Fratello Coffee Pods Yemen Moka Sanani Single Estate

It is vibrantly fruity, rich, earthy, light roasted and fresh flavored coffee equipped with a blueberry finish that will really surprise one's taste buds. It is of the best quality. It is also a consistent coffee which is grown in the highland regions of Sana'a in Yemen. It only costs $8.50.

13.Fratello Dixie Voodoo Coffee Pods

Fratello Dixie Voodoo is an Indonesian coffee blend, with a bold spicy flavor. It is also a dark roasted coffee with a smooth and dark unsweetened bakers chocolate taste. It only costs $5.99 for every pod. One box of this type contains 18 pods.

14.Fratello Eggnog Coffee Pods

A light roasted coffee that is equipped with traditional eggnog of rich rum and spices. It only costs $5.99. It has 18 pods inside its box.

15.Fratello Gingerbread Coffee Pods

Fratello Gingerbread is a lightly roasted coffee pod with a warm spicy flavor of gingerbread and molasses. It only costs $5.99. It contains 18 pods per box.

16.Fratello Nicaraguan Org. FT Coffee Pods

This is a medium roasted coffee with mild acidity content, along with hints of tobacco and chocolate. Its on sale price is $5.99. It has 18 pods per box.

17.Fratello Spiced Buttered Rum Coffee Pods

The Fratello Spiced Buttered Rum has a buttery warm flavor, with just the right touch of actual spices. It is a lightly roasted type. It has 18 pods per box. It only costs $5.99.

18.Java One Pod Coffee Estate Costa Rican

Java One has a unique flavor and intense aroma, making it a well balanced taste. It is a medium roasted type of Costa Rican coffee. It only costs $5.35. It has 14 counts per box.

19.Java One Pod Coffee Hazelnut Crème

This is from 100% Arabian beans, making it unique, light roasted and having a touch of a hazelnut nutty flavor. It is smooth and subtle, along with sweet flavors which can be enjoyed as a delicious end meal. It only costs $5.35.

20.Lavazza House Blend Premium Coffee Pods

Lavazza House Blend is made up of 100% Arabica. It is from the Brazilian region, making it fruity and with a flowery aroma. It is also a light roasted coffee with 18 pods per box. Its on sale price is only $8.99.

21.Melitta Southern Pecan Pie Pod Coffee

This is a lightly roasted coffee, having a blend of toasted pecans, sweet maple and cinnamon. Its standard measurement is 9 gram / 55mm pod and it's
Price is only $4.99.

22.Reunion Island Maple Creme Coffee Pods

This is a medium roasted blend with a smooth flavor of maple cream, making it better tasting. Its on sale price is $7.50. It has 25 counts per box

23.Wolfgang Puck South Pacific Dark Pod Coffee

Wolfgang Puck South Pacific has an elegant blend of all natural coffee, usually from the tropical Pacific Rim. It is a medium to dark roasted coffee type. Its on sale price is $8.90. It has about 25 counts per box.
All coffee pods can be used within 2 up to 3 weeks after opening. Maintaining its freshness is what makes coffee pods different from other kinds of coffee preparations. There are many factors that contribute in making or producing a perfect cup. People usually judge a good cup of coffee with its flavor and crema. However, there is always a good way of preparing this, along with an easy cleanup and measuring devices, which will surely satisfy a coffee drinker. It is definitely money well spent. If you want a convenient, great tasting, and time saving coffee experience, you should try a cup of pod coffee.For more information on coffee pods please visit our website.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/drop-everything-to-read-about-this-amazing-private-island-in-the-bahamas http://www.artwoo.com/article/drop-everything-to-read-about-this-amazing-private-island-in-the-bahamas#comments Wed, 07 Nov 2007 03:20:01 +0000 musha caybahamasluxury islandprivate islandacre islandisland honeymoonisland getaway http://www.artwoo.com/article/drop-everything-to-read-about-this-amazing-private-island-in-the-bahamas Luxury Island with 23 friends in the Bahamas. It's called Musha Cay and many of the few who've been lucky enough to stay there claim it to be the best tropical island not just in the Bahamas, but anywhere.

You and I may never get the chance to fulfill our dreams of a private island honeymoon on a place like this, for two very good reasons. The first is that we could never afford it, and the second is that Musha Cay is rented out as an island for fifty weeks of the year. It is only during a two week period that this most luxurious of luxury private islands can be rented on an individual house basis.

However we can all dream, and we should all dream of what a private island getaway like Musha Cay would be like.

Imagine renting an entire 150 acre island just off Great Exhuma in the Bahamas, with a staff of 37 who live there and will pander to your every whim. Make a mental list now of which of your friends you would like to invite to what will be your own luxury island for as long as you can afford it!!

Your friends can choose one of five very private beautifully furnished accommodation units. First at the top of the hill is High Point which you'd probably want for yourself. It is a 10,000 square-foot manor house with a quite amazing living and dining room.

There are two huge bedrooms with a deck all the way round, a sauna, hot tub and beautiful gardens.

A couple seeking to be alone could take the one bedroomed thatched Beach House hidden away on a secluded beach with an open air bathroom and shower.

Everyone else will either be in one of the pair of two bedroomed houses on their own private beach or be in the Palm Terrace a five bedroomed house also on its own private stretch of beach.

Here at Musha Cay you can literally eat, drink, and be merry twenty four hours a day.

You can eat and drink virtually what you want, and where you want to.

Take a picnic anywhere from the beautiful white sand strip and eat lobster and drink champagne. Whatever food you want, even caviar, can be flown in and prepared in any way that you want. The chef will cook want you want and serve it where you want from canap=E9s to cake on the beach on a boat at midnight at anytime.

Evening meals consist of many courses prepared by a top class chef and served in the waterfront dining room, but if you wanted it could be at the beach bar or even in your villa.

Having seen the eat and drink options what about the be merry on Musha Cay?

Well you could start by exploring this 150 acre island that is Musha Cay, and then there is tennis, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing for blue marlin, and then take your pick from a fleet of speedboats to go waterskiing, or take a windsurfer or a sailboat.. Add to this waverunners and runabout skiffs and you have some idea of the facilities on a top luxury private island where dreams come true.

There is a beachside fitness center, and indoor and outdoor massage rooms to add to all this.

You could always use the island's own aircraft and fly to Nassau for the day from Musha Cay's own airstrip. By the way there is also a helipad.

Or you can play billiards in your own billiard room, watch satellite TV, or even if you wanted to connect to the internet from the business office!!

You will soon lose all track of time om Musha Cay. The 30+ servants, all hand picked are there to ensure your stay is totally memorable, as if they all worked just for you and it was your own private luxury island retreat. You will find them utterly unobtrusive and totally discreet and trustworthy, leaving you without a care in the world.

Luxury: Musha Cay takes you back to a time long gone, when the wealthy lived like Kings and Queens, waited on hand and foot. The romance and elegance of these times gone by is encapsulated in your stay on this most private of private luxury islands.

PS The mundane subject of money!!

You can rent Musha Cay by the day or weekly, the daily rate being $43150 for up to 24 people, and that includes everything bar fireworks massage, and scuba diving.

For more information about hidden Hotels in The Caribbean go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Caribbean-Hotel-Hideaways/ Peter Stewart writes exclusively for http://www.in-kenyasafari.com as well as http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com and he has in depth knowledge of the places he writes about ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/freelancing-accelerates-ahead http://www.artwoo.com/article/freelancing-accelerates-ahead#comments Tue, 18 Apr 2006 10:50:04 +0000 freelance expertsfreelance industryfreelance employeesfreelance consultantshuman resources peoplebeneficial relationshipfreelancers http://www.artwoo.com/article/freelancing-accelerates-ahead
As businesses race ahead in search of increased profits and larger markets, they increasingly need to hire experts with minimal training and management costs. They also want to retain the freedom of employment flexibility i.e. ability to change experts on hire, should the business plans change suddenly. Hence freelance experts are a smart decision for a growing majority of corporate in to today's era of globalization where people talent and not geography is the limiting factor. These freelance experts are hired across levels, departments and countries where technology is fully harnessed to share insights/knowledge/expertise in a mutually beneficial relationship.

As the world of virtual/freelance employees gains momentum businesses everywhere are recognizing the benefits of this democratic way of working. What's driving this trend? Business owners are discovering that there's often a better value for their dollar when they hire freelancers. And they're able to choose from an almost unlimited field of skill-sets for each specific project they need help with. With the freelance industry worth millions of dollars worldwide, as a freelancer, you have the ability to start a profitable business with a very low investment as well as have the flexibility to work almost anywhere, anytime.

Omnipresent Freelancing

More recently, however, a more fundamental change in the organization of work has been made, encapsulated in the concept of continuous change in the flexible firm. In this workplace of today which thrive on continuous improvement of quality and productivity thanks to empowered freelance / consultants / experts who do not want to weighed down by designations and other hierarchical blockades. In this fluid arena of high growth there is a need for both higher and broader skills which is easily filled by a growing band of specialized free agents / freelancers because of the following:

i. human resources: people, especially, the young, are much better educated than previously and more ready to take stretch initiatives and responsibilities.

ii. markets: consumers are now more demanding and no longer willing to accept simple, standardised services/products, but are looking for innovation, variety, novelty and high quality --the specifications of which are continuously evolving.

iii. new technology: especially IT/Telecom have begun a virtual revolution making global collaboration on a real-time basis a functional reality. This has led to a fundamental shift in the rate of skills renewal / multitasking, transforming the earlier of the way work management.

Win-Win Freelancing

Until recently, there was a definite stigma attached to freelance recruitment. Freelance was often associated with words such as inexperienced, unfocused, risky, etc. However, due to the boom in the requirements of skilled candidates in almost all sectors and new screening processes brought on by recruiters , and other specialize skills marketplaces/portals -'freelance' has taken on an entirely different connotation. No longer are freelancers judged as the people who cannot get a permanent job.

The new perception is that freelancers are highly skilled and efficient workers who can easily deliver miracles -- there is a definite newfound sense of trust and confidence in the services that freelancers provide. Growing number of freelance options and talent is available at third party marketplaces which provide ideal linkages to both ends of the value chain i.e. service seekers as well service providers. Within any industry, freelance has become a very realistic and desirable option for many candidates -- even candidates who are leaving permanent positions are now happy to look at freelance work -- demonstrating a marked change in old employment models. For some, freelance has truly become a way of life -- mirroring the work life balance issue that has become very prevalent in many other professional occupations.

Organizations are also starting to realize that freelance recruitment can offer them an economic advantage and sometimes give them an "edge" -- a necessary thing to have in this very competitive market. Using freelance workers means that there is less financial commitment on a project-by-project basis, and less investment is needed -- with a limitless ocean of skill sets with unmatched levels of scalability which is a great financial incentive for any organization concerned with its bottom line. Parveen Panwar is founder of Go4outsourcing.com. http://www.go4outsourcing.com is an online freelance marketplace to connect service buyers with freelancers/service firms. Freelance web developer, freelance programmer ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/abnormal-ovarian-cysts-types-causes-and-treatments http://www.artwoo.com/article/abnormal-ovarian-cysts-types-causes-and-treatments#comments Fri, 25 Jul 2008 08:50:27 +0000 squamous cell carcinomapolycystic ovarian cystchocolate cystendometrioma cystfemale hormones estrogenfunctional cystscystic teratoma http://www.artwoo.com/article/abnormal-ovarian-cysts-types-causes-and-treatments functional cysts since they have resulted from abnormal cell growth. However, that need not mean that they are all cancerous as most of them are simple benign growths. And none knows for sure what has caused them to grow. However, abnormal ovarian cysts that include cystadenoma cyst, dermoid cyst, endometrioma cyst or Chocolate cyst and 'polycystic ovarian cyst' are believed to occur due to imbalance of 'female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and a multitude of other direct and indirect reasons. In many women, these cysts have remained all through their lives without the host being aware of their presence. But in some rare cases, they may burst, needing immediate surgical interference.

Cystadenoma cysts

These abnormal ovarian cysts develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovaries and can grow to a very large size. Mucinous Cystadenoma cysts take the form of biggest tumours in women often weighing approximately 328 lb or around 149 kg, These cysts reportedly occur at an early age and the cyst turned tumour happens to be unilateral and are often found attached to the ovary by a stem. As there is a rare chance of these cysts or tumours turning malignant, they may be classified historically and treated accordingly. Falling under the category of asymptomatic cysts, they may be found in the form of large abdominal mass during a routine check up of a person complaining abdominal pain and associated distressing condition.

Dermoid cyst or teratomas

As a fairly bizarre phenomenon, Dermoid cysts, clinically termed as 'cystic teratoma' are classed more as tumours than cysts. In fact, they are solid structures filled with pieces of bone, hair, teeth and skin, as well as hair follicles, pockets of blood, sebum and in some cases 'thyroid tissue'. Though they are normally benign, the rarely occurring malignant dermoid cyst usually develops as 'squamous cell carcinoma' in adults. Incidentally, a Pilonidal cyst often resembles dermoid cyst in several ways, the most significant resemblance concern the presence of Germ Cell Tumour. In case of any evasive surgery care must be taken so that there is no spillage while the opinion of an oncologist will be helpful.

Periorbital Dermoid Cysts

Even the kids are not spared of Dermoid cysts -- often kids get them close to the eyebrow's lateral aspect and they feel like rubber. When the cysts are seen, medical practitioners sometimes keep them under observation and at other times they are surgically removed. However when they are meddled with, the cysts may lead to an inflammation. And even after treatment, the cyst may make a comeback, particularly if the entire growth has not been removed. But the problem is, the complete cyst can often be difficult to remove with surgery, particularly when it is a 'Dumbbell Configuration', in which, it needs to be cut along the suture line of the skull.

Endometrial cysts or Chocolate cysts

Endometriosis is a medical terminology that indicates a condition when the endometrium or the lining of the womb begins to grow in parts of the body other than the womb. These endometrial patches also forms on the ovaries, creating cysts popularly known as Chocolate cysts as they are invariably filled with chocolate coloured pre-stored blood. During the menstrual period every month, these endometrial patches of tissues that have been encapsulated in cyst will also bleed, but since there is no outlet for bleeding, the cyst go on getting larger in size and eventually may burst.



Polycystic ovarian cyst

Cysts forming from small egg follicles causing ovaries to get thickened and enlarged, often accompanied by hormonal imbalance in women are known as polycystic ovarian cyst that grow in numbers.

Holistic approach as plausible cure

Since OTC medications and prescription drugs can hardly solve the problem of abnormal ovarian cysts in your body and surgical removal of the cyst involves many factors that may not prove beneficial, a holistic approach towards a plausible cure seems to be the best answer. You need also to remember that the surgical removal of a cyst is not foolproof since a recurrence can never be ruled out.

The holistic approach to the cure is more practical too as the cyst formation involves a multitude of factors starting from hormonal imbalance to psychological trauma. Besides, the holistic approach will add newer dimension towards the treatment that includes change of food habits, change of lifestyle and appropriate physical exercise, topics hitherto unheard of as right line of treatment for abnormal ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts can happen from many contributing factors. And since holistic medicines treat the body as a whole, they are often more effective.Mary Parker is an author of the best-selling e-book, "Ovarian Cysts No More- The Secrets Of Curing Ovarian Cysts Holistically". To Learn More About Her Unique 3-Step Holistic Ovarian Cysts Cure System Visit: Ovarian Cysts No More . For further information visit: Ovarian Cysts ]]>