Brady Act & Constitutional Law

How guns and firearms are sold and owned in the United States of America has changed as both firearms and the outlook of the general public about gun ownership by private individuals developed and changed over time. From the very first time firearms were introduced to the public to the use of firearms for a variety of reasons other than as a weapon to kill or maim another human being intentionally, laws and regulations state-wide as well as national has been put into action so that the problems arising from poor gun control can be addressed.There are several laws in effect in the United States today which directly affect the selling and ownership of guns. One of these laws is the Brady Handgun Control Act, a law which was campaigned for and was inspired by the vision and dedication of Ms. Sarah Brady, wise of the deceased James Brady. Sarah Brady campaigned for the creation of law that would make gun sale and purchase a process that erases the chances that guns fall into the wrong ha nds. Sarah lost her husband after James was killed during an assassination attempt against former US president Ronal Reagan.The Brady Act was passed, but it has many critics coming from different sides. Some praise the initiative especially those who believe that one of the serious issues that law makers and law enforcement units should address is firearms and violence. â€Å"The Brady Act was passed in response to what Congress describes as an ‘epidemic of gun violence†¦ ’ Whether or not the evaluation reflected in the enactment of the Brady Act is correct as to the extent of the danger and the efficacy of the legislation, the congressional decision surely warrants more respect that it is accorded in today's unprecedented decision (Kommers, Finn, Jacobsohn, 2004, p.270). † The constitutional law implications of the Brady Act – The enactment into law of the Brady Handgun Control Act (previously the Brady Handgun Control Bill) created many after effect s. The immediate constitutional implication of the Brady Act is the changing of what can be considered as the legal process of owning a gun. Prior to the Brady Act, there are no laws that require the screening of individuals who want to purchase a firearm.But because of the Brady Act, suppliers, dealers and sellers of firearms who are identified by the Brady Act as required by the law to undergo customer screening is now constrained to do so, lest they are subjected to the penalties that go with the violation of the Brady Act. Another noticeable effect of the Brady Act in the constitutional law is the idea of enforcing state laws into the federal system, which some believed as a breach of the sovereignty of the states and a direct violation of the tenth amendment.The tenth amendment basically guarantees the sovereignty of the states from the perceived blanket and federal rule of rules and laws which are being imposed nationwide. When the Brady Bill was passed and made the Brady Act, local state governments and courts were torn on whether or not the country is guilty of usurping state powers when they introduced the Brady Act and the features of this particular law.According to the book made by National Research Council titled â€Å"Containing the Threat from Illegal Bombings: An Integrated National Strategy for Marking, Tagging, Rendering Inert, and Licensing Explosives and Their Precursors,† not all of the states proved to be receptive to the idea of the federal government, and there are some who felt that there are existing problems found in the imposition of the Brady Act in all of the states.â€Å"Shortly after the act's passage, local law enforcement officials from around the country filed lawsuits seeking to enjoin its enforcement and to have its interim provisions declared unconstitutional under the Tenth Amendment (National Research Council, 1998, p. 290). † The response of the different courts that heard out this cry over undue pressure from the federal government was varied. This is because the interpretation and tolerance towards the use and imposition of the Brady Act in every state is also different.Some states think that the features of the Brady Act are ok. â€Å"The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in Mack v. United States upheld the constitutionality of the interim provisions, finding in the Brady Act, nothing unusually jarring to our system of federalism (National Research Council, 1998, p. 290). † But while there are courts who ruled in favor of the Brady Act and its imposition in the state, there were also instances wherein the court ruled in favor of the state government and its rights, â€Å"some courts, like the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Koog v.United States, found the interim provisions unconstitutional, explaining that the interim duties effectively commandeer the legislative processes of the States, and in violation of the Tenth Amendment, cross the line from permissible encouragement of a state regulatory response into that constitutionally forbidden territory of coercion of the sovereign States (National Research Council, 1998, p. 290). † Besides the friction that the Brady Act made with regards to the relationship of the government of the sovereign states and the federal government, the law also appears to have a significant role in how the law makers would create other laws.The Brady Act acts as precedent for the creation of other laws against other things closely related to firearms, starting with the regulation of explosive products. Facing an age where terrorism is largely defined by the use of bombs and by the presence of chemicals being used for bomb-making, law makers may rethink their position in pending laws that will affect bomb and explosives regulation. â€Å"The fate of the Brad Act has obvious implications for any regulations that Congress may devise to control ammonium nitrate or other explosive products (National Research Council, 1998, p. 290).† There are other effects on law and constitution caused by the Brady Act. For example, the Brady Act provided the plug to close several holes in some existing laws in gun control, like the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 and acted as a law that supported other judicial efforts to combat violence originating from firearms, like the Federal Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. The Brady Act as a law went head on against some of the existing state laws on firearms purchase and selling, and because it was a redundancy, some states did not see fit to use or implement it.But this does not seem to matter because, according to Siegel, the Brady Act was considered by some as ineffective in achieving what it was designed for. â€Å"When Jen Ludwig and Philip Cook compared two sets of states – thirty-two that installed the Brady Law in 1994 and eighteen states plus the District of Columbia, which already had similar types of laws prior to 1994 – they found that there was no evidence that implementing the Brady Law contributed to a reduction in homicide (Siegel, 2005, pg 49).† Conclusion – It is easily imaginable how the proponents of the Brady Act only had in mind the undertaking of a noble cause to protect the public. But as it turned out, the Brady Bill did not only became a source of confusion and debate concerning constitutional rights of the state government which cannot be breached by federal government, it also proved as a blunt knife when it comes to the effort in cutting down irresponsible firearms sell that leads to violence.Proponents of the Brady Act were hoping that the rest of the country would embrace it and that the efforts will be validated by its efficacy. But at some point they were wrong because of many things. First, there are already similar laws installed in some states that the Brady Law is just an unnecessary cause of confusion for them. Second, the resulting effort to make the Brady A ct a nationwide and blanket law was met with criticisms over the supposed encroachment of federal government illegally on constitutionally protected state government rights.If the Brady Act proves that it can provide a very sound framework from which new rules will be made from (i. e. the law on the restriction of explosives), then the Brady Act will indirectly make a positive contribution towards efforts which are geared in getting the same results similar to the outcome that the Brady Bill was hoping to achieve. References Kommers, Donald P. , Finn, John E. and Jacobsohn, Gary J.(February 2004). American Constitutional Law: Essays, Cases, and Comparative Notes, Second Edition, Volume 1. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. National Research Council (July 1998). Containing the Threat from Illegal Bombings: An Integrated National Strategy for Marking, Tagging, Rendering Inert, and Licensing Explosives and Their Precursors. National Academies Press. Siegel, Larry J. (March 2005). Cr iminology. Wadsworth.

Effect of Ph on Food Preservatives Essay

Sodium Benzoate is a common food preservative used in food products such as jams and jellies, soft drinks, pickles, condiments etc and in tinned products in the market. This experiment aimed to determine whether benzoic acid is formed from it’s superior soluble form sodium benzoate in stomach acid, which is simulated by HCl (pH=2). It has been seen that at a low optimum pH, i.e. in the presence of sufficient hydrochloric acid, sufficient benzoic acid is yielded. The percentage yield is determined from the calculations of the theoretical (stoichiometric) calculations and the actual yield from the reaction. Also throughout the experiment, some basic laboratory operations such as measuring mass and volume, separating solids from liquids by vacuum filtration and drying solids are familiarized with. Introduction The reaction of sodium benzoate and hydrochloric acid is a typical phenomenon of hydrolysis reaction which conforms to the principles of acid-base chemistry and stoichiometry. In a typical hydrolysis reaction, when a salt dissolves in water, the salt dissociates to its constituent anions and cations (benzoate and sodium ions respectively). Also, when strong acids like hydrochloric acid dissolves in water, chloride ions and hydronium ions are formed. Hence in the reaction involving sodium benzoate and hydrochloric acid solution, in the presence of high concentration of hydronium ions, protons will be transferred from the strong acid H3O+ to the basic benzoate ion. This will yield benzoic acid, C6H5COOH which precipitates from the solution as it has a really poor solubility (0.34g/100ml). The fundamental reaction is sketched out below: As can be seen from the difference in the pKa values, H3O+ is a much stronger acid than benzoic acid. So, the equilibrium of the reaction strongly favours its completion and hence hydrochloric acid which ideally simulates the acidic conditions of the stomach, does convert benzoate to benzoic acid. Safety: Throughout the lab safety goggles, protective gloves and aprons were worn while carrying out the experiments. While transferring the HCl to the reaction vial in the student hood, the head must never be inside the glass hood as vapour inhalation can cause choking hazard and irritations. Also the hosepipes were carefully plugged in and out of the filter flask to avoid breakage or tipping of the Hirsh funnel. Experimental For this experiment and basic operations, calibrated Pasteur pipettes, a 5ml conical reaction vial, watch glass, stirring rod, electronic balance, small test tube, Hirsh funnel, filter flask and filter paper are used. The procedure for this experiment appears on page 7 of the lab manual, Multiscale Organic Chemistry (4th custom UB edition)3. As the primary objective of this experiment was to find out whether sodium benzoate reacts with simulated stomach acid to form benzoic acid, the results clearly indicate that a successful reaction close to completion, if not fully complete, has taken place. The percentage yield calculation reveals that approximately 90% of benzoic acid as white precipitate were recovered from the reaction. There were a number of factors which might have contributed to the 10% deficiency in the final yield. It needs to be mentioned though that a percentage yield of less than 100% is achieved because the drying of the solid mass after vacuum filtration was sufficient to give a practical number. During measurements of mass of benzoate and benzoic acid when it’s formed, there were obvious human errors involved. Some benzoates were lost while transferring to the conical reaction vial from the watch glasses, and further loss of the product benzoic acid might have taken place when the solution mixture was tipped on the Hirsh funnel. We couldn’t determine if the reaction was complete or not, so we might not have had all the salt converted 4. The solution might not have sufficiently and gradually cooled though every effort was made for that, hence there could be lack of benzoic acid crystals forming. The litmus test might have contributed to a significant loss of the precipitate, but only one instead of multiple tests were performed to see if the reaction mixture was acidic enough. Given the carefully controlled experiments and the 90% yield, it can be deemed that the methods used to perform the experiments are full proof and performed as immaculately as possible. Conclusion The fact that a new substance is formed indeed when sodium benzoate is placed into a simulated stomach acid has been demonstrated successfully with the aid of the experiments and aforementioned results. A 90% yield suggests that all the basic operations were carried out as neatly and carefully as possible and measures taken to minimize obvious errors which could take place while performing the experiments. All in all, the experiment provided a practical evidence of the theory behind the hydrolysis of sodium benzoate and percentage yield of it’s product.

TMM Brain Storming

Find out In the beginning of the class If the students had done any prior preparations to learn that lesson and encourage such students. 3. Help the students make a smooth transition from +2 Make the students aware that the study pattern Is entirely to (NSA) 4. Different from what they were following in the last 12 years. They should be mentally prepared to adopt a new teaching style and learning process. 5. When students get good results, they must receive some positive strokes and visible appreciation. Increase the Library hours so that students get more time for REAL research . Tidies. Check if they are using it properly. 7. Allocate specific time in the time table for student- teacher interaction on a one to one basis. 8. Encourage and educate students to respect all faculties whether they teach them or not. 9. Do not criticize students in public unless there is a sufficient reason. 10. Do not do anything which would bring down the self esteem and morale of the students. 11. Best teachers (Communicators) should be allocated for the first years. 12. Teachers need to pay undivided attention Just for academic matters. Unfortunately today they re involved in several extracurricular activities like collection of fees, uniforms, dress, sandals, collection of records from the press, taking quotations etc. 13. Curriculum meeting should be conducted every month on a FIXED date in a PROPER manner so that the coordinators are fully equipped. 14. In the clinical, teachers must be given a control over the students than the staff nurse. In the present scenario, staff nurses enforce their work on our students. 15. Special meeting with the parents of weaker students must be conducted more frequently.Change the teaching method – student friendly. Make sure they understand the topic properly. 16. Increase interaction with the students- use Sacramental method of using more questions and make them think. Plan Discussion classes Instead of lecturing classes. 17. Prepare power point presentations In a professional manner. 18. Prepare proper lesson plan and get approval from the concerned person. 19. Assign an Internal faculty to assist or follow up the external faculty. 20. All the faculty should be given training In modern techniques of communication. 21. Equip the students to WRITE the exam properly.Some students write the correct answers, but give wrong embers, and then they wont get marks. They make a lot of such mistakes. They should be given proper orientation before they go for the exams. 22. Class co teach a subject or not. Then they can build up a close knit relationship and maintain it all the time. When the students face with a problem, then it is easy for them to approach that person. This is the time, these students face a lot of psychological, behavioral, hormonal issues and they badly need a mentor and a counselor whom they can trust completely. 23.Plan the curriculum for each year at least two months n advance so that teachers will k now their responsibilities properly. Short notice planning is creating a lot of tensions and problems. Once you plan it, go strict about implementing it. Do not change it as your mood changes. It creates problem for those who are forced to implement it. 24. Faculty should develop a culture of completing their works in the stipulated time. It should not be postponed or kept pending. 25. Find out the weak students in the first quarter itself and plan some special activities for them. Give them more study time if needed, avoiding clinical once in a while. 6. Conduct minimum of three PTA meeting every year. 27. Students who have not cleared I and II year exams should be withheld from Ill year classes and clinical. (Parents to be convinced). 28. There should not be any discrimination between B. Sc and M. Sc faculty. A We Feeling should be created. Conduct all – staff meeting every month. 29. Academic programs should not be interfered by Conferences or Workshops. 30. Disciplinary a ctions should be made without any delay. 31. Students should not be overburdened with extra money collection in various heads. 32. One staff: 10 students family should be created.There should be a mix of brighter as well as weaker students in the group. They should help each other in all matters. There can be even a healthy competition between the groups. Brighter students should help weaker ones to go up the ladder. In the hostel, 5 adjacent rooms can be provided for them. 33. Students must be given opportunities to get engaged in non curricular as well as entertainment programs once in a while. They should not feel that TM CON is a prison and the staffs are kill Joys. 34. Non academic activities are the unidentified ‘hole' in the result bucket. 35.Conduct weakly revision followed by a one hour test on Monday. 36. As far as possible, do not make any changes in our academic master rotation plan for 52 weeks so that the implementation would be more effective. 37. Make the stude nts clear their doubts in the class itself or immediately after the class. Teachers should be available for that. 38. Help the students to adjust the timings and write the answers according to the marks. 39. Constantly appreciate the students and staff for all the good things comes from them. 40. Students Just mugging up the lecture notes and answer key is not advisable.Engage them in some small projects and assignments in their subjects. For the concern of the Management 41. Revise the admission criteria. Consider only those who have more than 70% marks in + 2. Those who got less than that are not fit for the present standards of KUAKA. We are trying to help a family by giving admission to this course. But ultimately we are putting that family in more grief and financial crisis. 42. A student who scores high marks in +2 may not be having any interest or caliber to pursue nursing studies. So strict scrutinizing should be done at the time of admission. 3.The present system of aptitud e test is quiet inadequate to evaluate their interest. It is simply a bunch of questions on physics, Chem.. , Bio, English and Bible. Hardly changed. 44. Let the board create an opportunity for the students to express their assessment and evaluation on their studies or any other topics. We realized that the Chairman and others in the board sat with students during a couple of lunch sessions was very encouraging for them. 45. Reduce the workload of students in the hospital. 46. Arrange faculty welfare programmer regularly without affecting academic aerogramme to relieve them from stress and burn out. 7. Minimize the external faculty for the first year. If needed find out those who can properly communicate to the fresher. Avoid Hi if – trainers. Students are new to the system and atmosphere. Several of them are from Malaysia medium. When they do not understand the teachers hi if stuff, they get mentally dejected. They are scare to express it to anybody. And thus their morale an d confidence level goes down. Their first impression about the course is that it is a hazardous task. That impression lasts throughout. So we need to create a very good first impression to them. 8.Arrange personality development classes like: Effective Time management, How to study well, Goal, How to get out of Exam Phobia, How to prepare for and write exams etc†¦ 49. A forum for expression should be given. It is good if it is a confidential. This is for the first time we get an opportunity to express our thoughts in the last 10 years. So keep a locked box in the reception area so that students, their parents and even the faculty in the college can write and put their suggestions. Either President or Secretary of the College Board only should be able to open it. 50.A big number of he faculty are uncomfortable in the campus due to various reasons. Provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for the faculty to work. Avoid situations which create unwanted stress from superiors in the college. 51. Unnecessary interferences of higher authority (in the campus) even in minute things should be avoided. Faculty should be given certain amount of freedom with an aim of the betterment of the institution in mind. 52. Very often teachers are being called to Principals office during class time. This should be avoided. Otherwise we lose the concentration and the flow.Sometimes we come back with a different mental set up. So avoid such interferences. 53. Individuality of the teachers should be considered. They have their own status. Do not treat them as mere subordinator. 54. When teaching faculty are in some trouble, help them to solve it instead of making it more complicated. More than the money, the Staff should get a Job satisfaction and mental peace. Create such an atmosphere in the campus. 55. Faculty should not be scolded in front of others (Students, parents and other faculty). If the principal or the board wants to say something to the staff, it should be done personally and privately.Avoid ego clashes. 56. At times, I had felt that I am still in a Barbarian era, where there is no concern for one another. Treat others with some respect. TM Con had a family atmosphere in the beginning. That feeling should come back. Faculty, right from the principal to the Junior most should sit together and discuss. Authorities should be willing to accept a good suggestion even if it comes from the Junior most. Faculty should get a listening ear. 57. A good working atmosphere would motivate both the students and faculty. A stressful atmosphere will force you to look always for n opportunity to get out.You feel like working more hard when you own it. A come back to the good old days. 58. More such barnstorming sessions should be arranged with heterogeneous group of people such as two students from each nursing batch, one from M Sc batch, Administrator, Wardens etc and they can be give these points as a background and make them answer to the same old quest ion. 59. We must provide more recreational facilities to the students. 60. Children who come out of their homes need comfort from their parents. So arrange telephones so that they can call their parents and talk to them.

Interoperability and Middleware Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Interoperability and Middleware - Research Paper Example This was aimed at improving the service offered by the ICT sector. After this development, the ICT sector became more comprehensive and demanded more research and advancements on telecommunications and computing network flexibility (Lerner, 2002). Today interoperability standards are applied in ICT world to improve effective communication compatibility, exchange of data and services. The smooth interaction between two or more components of the operating software for communication compatibility, services and data exchange can be termed as inter-operatibility. Interoperability is a necessity in ICT because it is a tool that increases the connectivity of computers via the internet and offers a solution to operational costs. Furthermore, its software has been proved to be of quality provided heterogeneity is maintained, for instance, on systems written in different language programming; running on different hardware programs and operating system; using different data representation; impl ementing unlike syntactic or semantics interpretations; and using different control platforms (Puder, Ro?mer & Pilhofer, 2006) For interoperability heterogeneity to be realized there has to be a middleware software package. Today, there are many telecommunication and computation industries that offer middle ware products. The industry built middleware product essentially develops a connector that makes interoperability system to configure for use. Middle ware refers to application software that serves the purpose of a transition layer or exchange of resources between two networked counterparts. It also merges and incorporates two networked counterparts to communicate with each other either running on the same or different platforms. Middleware software applications are divided into two major categories, application management and resource management. In application management invokes specific services that perform given tasks for them. This application management is also divided int o other two categories, the higher and the lower, that is dependent on the level of service abstraction the middleware offers. The lower application known as inter-application management communication middleware operates with remote procedure calls in general while the higher application middleware totally abstracts the network by substituting procedure calls with direct service calls. The second middleware category, resource management, acts as resource management utility. Just like the first category it is divided into two groups, higher and lower resource management dependent on the type of resource managed by the middleware. The higher resource, also referred to as database middleware, manages software related resources such as transaction processing and database access as these resources are related to the database while lower resource middleware manager, also known as resource middleware, manages hardware related resources like CPU, hard drive space and memory (Puder, Ro?mer & Pilhofer, 2006). At the time of manufacture its main aim was to set up new standards of addressing the issue of differences that occur due to heterogeneous networks. It also provided for grid distinctive characteristics like file sharing, processor and additional grid functionalities such as API (application programming interfaces) with a primary concern aimed in resource

Influence of Exchange Rate regime on Effectiveness of Monetary Policy Essay

Influence of Exchange Rate regime on Effectiveness of Monetary Policy - Essay Example According to Cespedes, Chang & Velasco (2002, p. 1), â€Å"this kind of a model treats the financial markets and international capital mobility as perfect.† Therefore, by using this model to explain the effectiveness of a monetary policy, we would be making an assumption that capital mobility and financial markets are perfect. A country can apply either a fixed exchange rate regime or a flexible exchange rate regime in its monetary system. These two regimes differ both in their characteristics and in applicability. Unlike a flexible regime, a fixed regime has an automatic monetary policy response that the monetary institution has little influence on (Klein & Shambaugh 2010). However, they both define how the currency of a country exchanges with currencies of other countries. According to IMF (1988), exchange rates influence capital flow in and out of the country. Therefore, since the exchange rate regime adapted would influence the exchange rates then it would influence the ca pital flow in and out of the country. A monetary policy affects the money market of a country. This type of policy is crucial in finding a solution to economic problems. Its basis is the supply of money rather than the terms and rates of trade (Jain & Khanna 2007). Therefore, the monetary institutions design this kind of a policy to control either the amount of currency in circulation or the cost of a currency relative to currencies of other nations. However, in controlling the amount of currency in circulation and cost of a currency, the policy should control the terms and rate of a trade in a country. That is now where the issue of the effectiveness of a policy comes from. An effective monetary policy is one that has the capacity to control terms and rates of trade thus controlling the economy of the country. The three lines in the IS-LM BP model are the open IS curve, the open LM curve and the BP curve (Chamberlin & Yueh 2006). Although we use the word ‘curve’ to men tion them, in a diagram they are represented as straight lines. We can use this kind of a model for different purposes one of them being the analysis of a policy. When we use this model to analyze a policy, each of these curves would represent a different aspect of the policy that can identify its effectiveness. In this case, what we would be interested in is the intersection point of the lines in the model. Below is an illustration of this type of a model retrieved from the internet. Diagram of the IS-LM BP model (Deardorff 2010, p. 1) Each line in the diagram above is a representation of an aspect of a monetary policy that we aim to analyze. We can observe from the diagram that all the three curves intersect at one point called the equilibrium point. We can use these lines to explain how a monetary policy affects the economic activities of a country and thus draw a conclusion of its effectiveness. According to Furstenberg (1984), international exchange of national money and moneta ry equilibrium are the main causes of the effectiveness of monetary policy. We could use the IS-LM BP model to represent and interpret these aspects of the monetary policy. The intersection of all the curves in the model represent the monetary equilibrium while each of the curves represent an aspect of international exchange of national money. The nature of the curves, its shifts, and their point of intersection depend on the

Operations and Materials Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Operations and Materials Management - Essay Example Companies keep on upgrading themselves to gain competitive edge and keep up with changing demands and preferences of consumers. This paper is to observe and analyze the operations and materials management of three firms- McDonalds, world wide chain of fast food restaurant; Panda Express, a fast food Asian cuisine restaurant; Wendy’s, quick service hamburger company. Â   All the three companies have a well set operations management that focuses on acquiring the raw material cost effectively; process the raw material to make it ready to bring it out to the shelf for the final use by consumer. This is typical of the Wendy’s operations and its business strategy (Stevenson, 1996). The common thing about the three large firms is that all three have well planned and strategically designed Standard Operating Procedures in addition to their indigenous solution in relation to the nature of industry they are thriving in. In order to avoid huge amount of capital investment in acqu iring and building the infrastructure, McDonalds and Panda Express sells franchisee to local investors. McDonalds is a fast food restaurant catering to all classes of consumers across its chain of set ups globally; it relies on providing fresh food to its consumers in the quickest time possible. The key to its success globally irrespective of the geographical or cultural barriers has been its use of Just In Time (JIT) inventory management system. This system keeps a complete track of the available stock against the current and future demand of the raw material. It helps avoiding overstocking and under stocking at any given time; thus, ensuring healthy and fresh food for consumers (MacDonald, 2000, p. 263). The McDonalds’ management strategically makes a decision on keeping the labor cost low by scheduling the roster as per the store rush depending on peak and non-peak hours. Scheduling of staff roster is one strategy that has been found to be common to all the three companies being analyzed. In all the cases, there is a team of trained staff, where each member is not only specialized to perform a specific task, but also trained to handle more tasks at the same time in case they are required to do so. The companies encourage multi-tasking at their establishments. It helps in scheduling the roster on the basis of peak and non-peak hours; as the staff strength is generally kept low during the non-peak hours, which requires every team member to handle more than just their specific task. On the other hand, during the non-peak hours the work force at all the three firms is so stationed that one individual handles one desk that he specializes in. The well planned and consistent operation process across their chain of establishments and trained staff ensures low cost and improve the overall efficiency. The operating systems adopted by the three firms are primarily the same irrespective of the level an employee holds in the organization. Costs associated with op erations maintenance and monitoring in a company can generally be put under five different headers, which are plant, inventory, labor, raw materials, and distribution. All the costs associated with a company can broadly be classified into two categories, fixed costs and variable costs. As the terms imply, fixed costs are the ones that are incurred irrespective of the running status of a firm and variable costs are ones that are incurred at various stages of operations, like equipment maintenances, labor costs, plant

Report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Report - Research Paper Example In discrete market segments the consumers have relatively little power and in a less discrete environment, the relationship leads to less consumer loyalty and greater consumer choice on account of greater mobility enjoyed by the consumers. Background The technological developments in telecommunications and media in the recent past have opened up new avenues for marketing of the products. The developments have also enhanced the awareness among the consumers about their rights, quality of the products, pricing pattern of the similar products, track record, servicing in respect of the products and host of other factors related to marketing. Therefore the changing business environment has necessitated revisiting of the strategies hitherto adopted by the companies in marketing of the products and services and streamlining their strategies in line with the developments in the industry for their survival. Upgrading of the products and processes is a continuous process keeping in tune with t he changes in technology and tastes and fashions of the consumers. Objectives This paper discusses consumer behavior with reference to an ongoing concern. An ongoing concern has to approach the issue from two angles, one in connection with the existing consumers and the other with the prospective consumers. Though there may be an element of overlapping, strategies vary for collection of information. The paper seeks to analyze the issues with regard to the existing and potential consumers. In the case of existing consumers, the information about them is already available with the company. The techniques such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) would be useful for the management of these customers as well as the potential consumers. In the case of prospective customers, the information from the industry, community and other external sources will be required and the techniques such as market research would be useful for collecting information. In this connection a clear perspecti ve formed by the management with regard to Consumer psychology and Consumer behavior is essential. Consumer psychology Consumer  psychology  deals with the study of issues most relevant to the decisions taken by the people in purchasing a particular item, determining the value of a service and the influence of advertisements in the media in their decisions, especially when they are confronted with the new products or services, consequently interrelated to the consumer behavior. The entire gamut of consumer psychology encompasses marketing, advertising and social psychology apart from economics and cultural diversity or differences and extends to several other related areas such as product packaging as well. For example, Choi, Kwon & Lee (2007, p. 10) state that â€Å"mortality salience has an impact on materialistic consumption. People with a greater fear of becoming a terrorism victim showed a greater tendency for brand name consumption and compulsive consumption†. This is an extension of the application of Terror Management Theory to consumer behavior. Likewise, the opportunities afforded are endless and includes new uses for the existing products which may give rise to new ideas in marketing a product. The economic and social background of the consumers and the psychological interplay in this backdrop is very crucial in the product placement and positioning, considering the target consumers,

Evaluate how an organisation implemented an information system (such Essay

Evaluate how an organisation implemented an information system (such as a CRM, SCM or ERP - Essay Example In the modern world with increased expectations from customers, relationship marketing has become an important factor in financial services. Therefore, the management function of banks needs to critically analyse those areas where prospects can be found owing to industry amalgamation, virtual distribution and the growing ability to transfer cash just with the snap of a mouse which has made it efficient for customers to shift their loyalty from one bank to the other. It is this necessity that has prompted many banks to establish a relationship with their customers by coming up with a well-managed system that ensures that banks fully understand their customers, retain existing clients through enhancedconsumer experience, remain attractive to new customers and gain new clienteles and contracts, increase cost-effectiveness and cut back on consumer organization costs. In this scenario, CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is an information system that presents an opportunity for banks t o develop concrete relationships with their clients who can then market their services through word of mouth, making it hard to change loyalty by switching to other banks among others (Hwang and Wen,2009; Kamakura et al., 2005). HDFC Bank, India, launched the use of CRM in 2008 to achieve its vision of â€Å"One Bank† to enable it make available to the customers more information about the bank and attract new customers in order to boost its profitability and customer satisfaction. HDFC Company Profile and Porters Five Forces Analysis HDFC is a commercial bank based in India and is the largest private universal bank by market capitalization having a customer base totalling over 25 million, an elaborate distribution network consisting of 2,544 branches spreading across 1399 cities around the world. The bank also has a huge workforce with over fifty five thousand employees. For HDFC Bank to effectively apply its core competencies to achieve a profit above the industry average, i t is important to assess its potential for profitability and strategic position in the Indian banking industry. The Indian banking sector is defined by a high bargaining power of customers owing to the fact that banks provide uniform services. This is mainly due to the fact that nearly all banks strive to make available requisite information to their clients through such facilities as internet and mobile banking thus increasing buyer information availability and buyer price sensitivity. On the other hand, The Reserve Bank of India, the nation’s central bank and regulatory body, has created numerous regulatory standards and benchmarks which have to be met by banks. This in effect lowers the bargaining power of commercial banks in general and HDFC in particular. The industry is also highly competitive given the numerous numbers of public, private, foreign and cooperative banks offering financial services similar to those offered by HDFC. The availability of substitutes outside of the realm of common product boundaries of HDFC such as mutual funds, Government securities and T-bills increases the propensity of customers to switch to alternatives. Lastly, HDFC faces a low level of threat of new entrants to the industry due to the high number of banking regulations created by the Reserve Bank of India (Goyal and Joshi, 2012). CRM Customer Relationship

Analogies Q1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Analogies Q1 - Essay Example Inductive arguments operate in a similar approach when it comes to analogies. For example an analogy created between trains moving in the same direction can be assumed that they have a similar destination through inductive argument (Carlson & Heth, 2009). As much as this assumption is not proven, inductive argument may justify the argument by assuming if the trains were going to different destinations they would use different routes. According to Carlson & Heth (2009) the relationship between analogies and inductive arguments is based on probability and similar relationships. Another clear example of an analogy is the inheritance of genes in a family. An analogy may argue that a child may acquire diabetes if their father has diabetes. An inductive argument may further argue that a child born in a family that a father has diabetes must have acquired the disease. In an argument by Carlson & Heth (2009) an inductive argument only tires to justify an assumption created by an

Income Distribution in the U.S Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Income Distribution in the U.S - Essay Example It looks at the income that the rich and the poor are getting. It also critically looks at the factors that can lead to income distribution inequalities like taxing, technology and globalization. It helps in explaining various theories like human capital and economic discrimination. For this purpose, it helps an economy to come up with ways to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor. It has been a global concern in fighting poverty. Even though poverty can not be fully eradicated it can be reduced. It is important to look at how factors of production are distributed within an economy. How easy it is for every individual to access these factors is another way to know how well the income is distributed within an economy (Richard, pp.345-450). It is important to look at the income distribution trends in America to find out how the gap between the rich and the poor can be reduced. Very many economists are interested in fighting the gap between the rich and the poor. The gross domestic product (GDP) has been refuted in telling if the citizens of a country are rich or poor. Many economists argue that a country can have a very high gross domestic product but it is only being produced by 10% of the citizens who are the elite and affluent people of the society. The Gini coefficient has been used by the American economists to tell if the country has equal distribution of income. It can simply be said that some professions are well paid but others earn very low wages (Richard, pp.345-450). It is notable that 1948 to 1968, the Gini coefficient reduced. When the Gini coefficient reduces then it means that the citizens’ income per citizen is increasing. Thus between those years the income inequality in America had reduced meaning that families were receiving more income than before. On the contrary, the Gini coefficient increased between 1968 and 1998, this meant that the

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini Essay Example for Free

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini Essay Abstract The novel The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini was a story of friends, family and culture includind history. The authors thought was fully placed in this novel thus, providing a vivid scenario of the story. It can also be felt by the heart as Amir tried to bury his past but found himself going back to that memore and not able to forgive himself because of his foolishness. The tragic end of Hassans life did not actually mean of sadness but it further insists the understanding of a new life and of a new beginning. The incorporation of both history and culture went along together forming a beautiful narrative and an admirable plot. The Kite Runner Chapter One   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The narrator, recalls his past he had until the winter of 1975. He mentioned that Rahim Khan, his friend called him   from Pakistan and asked him to go there and visit him. After he hung up, he went in a walk and watched a pair of kites dancing above the trees and floating in the air. Upon looking in the kites, he thought about Hassan, Baba, Ali and Kabul. Chapter Two   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The narrator recalls hi past with Hassan, a childhood friend with a cleft lip. He has been a loyal friend to Amir and kept of pleasing him. In this chapter, he also mentioned Hassans father whose name was Ali, a man whose lower facial muscles was paralyzed which prohibits him from showing emotion. Aside from being paralyzed, Ali also have a twisted right leg, a reason why he cant walk like the other people. Hassan and Ali lives in a mud shack on a property belonged to Amirs family. Hassans mother left left a week after he was born and choose to stay with the travelling dancers. Amir came from a well-off family. His father owns an estate in Northern Kabul and Amir calls his father Baba. Since Baba is a rich guy, he has many friends and Rahim Khan was his best friend. While Hassans mother left after his birth, Amirs mother died when he was born. Hassans family was a Hazara and a Shia Muslim while Amirs family were from Pashtun and belongs to the Sunni Muslime. The two children grew up togetehr thus, Amir believes was the start of the foundation of what had happened in the winter of 1975. Chapter Three In this chapter, Baba was further describe by the author. He was describe as an admirable man in business and stature. His child Amir, wants to be close with his father but then, deep inside him, he feels that his father was somehow distant to him because his wife, Amirs mother died of giving birth. Although they were not close, Baba was really a good man. He opened an orphanage which he designed himself and he have a restaurant and a carpet exporting business which makes him part of the richest merchants in Kabul. It was from Baba that he learned that theft is the only true sin and the rest, including murder was just a variant of theft. Baba believes that a murderer robs a wife or a child of a husband and a father. When Baba was young, his father was murdered. When Baba and his bestfriend Rahim Khan was having a conversation, Amir heared them and he found out that his father cant understand him why he cant stand up on his own and everytime he was being teased in the streets and being bullied too, he needs to be defended by Hassan and not by himself alone. He even said that if he wasnt able to see his birth, he would not believe that Amir was his son which Rahim Khan replied with some concer to Amir. Rahim said that the young boy simply lacks a mean streak but nevertheless, he understands him. The following day, because of jealousy, he wasnt able to be considerate with Hassan. Chapter Four   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Babas father adopted an orphan and was raised togetehr with him and this orphan was Ali. Like their fathers, Hassan and Amir were also raised together but Amir like his father does not refer to Hassan as his friend but rather as their servants. While Amir was studying, Hassan was not even given a chance to do the same thing and Amir reads to him until one time, he pretends to be reading but the truh was that he was making it up but Hassan liked his story and after he finished it, Hassan claps and said that it was the best story he was able to hear and said that he would love to hear something that goes like it again. That night, Air wrote his first story but Baba was not interested and it was Rahim Khan who read it and even encourage Amir to continue writing. He then wished that Rahim Khan could have been his father. He also shared his story with Hassan and the latter points out some problem in the introduction which angered Amir since Hassan was illiterate and how could he comment such things. Chapter Five   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   An explosion and a gun fire cuts the conversation between Amir and Hassan. There was an on going attack and Ali hid with the boys. On that same day, Assef, a neighbor who kept on bullying Hassan because he was a Hazara stopped them. He kept on saying that their new president should be like Hitler and get rid of the Hazara. He holds a slingshot but decided to get them later and soon left. On hassans 12th birthday, hes cleft lip was repaired in courtesy of Baba. Chapter Six   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The schools of Kabul are closed during winter and the popular activity to do during those times was to fly a kite. This one is the only interest that shares both Baba and Amir. There was kite fighting in Kabul and it was greatley anticipated by the people and Baba decided to bring the kids to a man named Saifo, a shoe repairman who was considered as the greatest kite maker. The greatest kite runner turned out to be Hassan. Chapter Seven   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It was Amir who won in the Annual kite as his Baba watches. He kept on wondering if Baba would be pleased and be proud of him or Hassan. Hassan at that time runs after the last kite which Amir cuts and plans to present it to Baba as a trophy. When he was looking for Hassan, he saw that he was cornered by Assef and his friends, since he was afraid, he hid while watching and saw that Hassan was raped by Assef. Assef insisted that Hassan was never Amirs friend but his servant. Amir later meets Hassan and pretended not to know what happened. Hassan on the other hand gave him the kite which he later on gave to Baba who was really proud of him. Chapter Eight   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Later, Hassan avoids every people including Amir and Ali asked Amir if he has any idea on what had happened after the kite fight but instead of answering, he snaps and commanded Ali to continue doing his work. This time, Baba showed interest for Amir and he even brought Amir to movies and in an outing, Amir was hoping that Baba and him can have a time of their but Baba invited three vans loaded with friends. Amir was not able to enjoy because of his guilt and later on resulted to being an insomaniac. On the other hand, Hassan tried to befriend Amir but the latter kept pushing him away and asked Baba if they can get new servants which Angered his father. Soon, their relationship worsen. He then start to have a fight with Hassan but the other would not fight back and he was even the one who hurt himself for Amir which shows his loyalty for his friend. On his 13th birthday, Assef gave Amir a book of Hitlers life while Rahim Khan gave hima blank book and told him that he can talk to him anytime. Chapter Nine   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir realized that living with Hassan was impossible and he lied to Baba by telling him that Hassan stole his birthday money including the watch that was given to him. Baba talked to Hassanas father and later confronted Hassan in front of Amir. Hassan admitted the crime in order to protect Amir and right there and then, Amir realized that all along, Hassan knows that he hid and did not helped him. While Baba decided to forgive Hassan, Ali revealed that they will leave even if Baba beg then to stay and it was the first time that Baba cried.   Chapter Ten   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In 1981, Amir and Baba left from Kabul while taking few personal items and have this idea in secret so that the Russian spies will not be aware of their plan. They will leave for Pakistan but they were stopped by the soldiers in the border and was asked to have hald hour with the young woman who was travelling with them. Baba did not allow it to happen and the young sldier pointed a gun on him but he did not care and the older officer came and stopped the young one and allowed them to pass the boarder. They were supposed to be transferred in another vehicle but the next truck to be used was broken fo a number of weeks already. When Baba realized that the man was only making a fool out of them, he nearly killed him and they had to wait until the truck was repaired. During their stay in the basement as they wait for the truck to be repaired, they met Kamal including his father and their friend. Amir learned that Kamal like Hassan was also raped and did not speak anymore after what happened. They were trasported using fuel trucks wherein Kamal died due to gas fumes and his father commit suicide thinking that he lost the a very valuable aspect in his life. Chapter Ten   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Fremont, California, Baba together with Amir stayed and Baba was not happy in working in a gas station. While Amir was burying his memories in America, his Baba kept on mourning. He graduated in highschool at the age of 20 in 1983. Baba told him that he will go to college but was angered when he chose English to be his major. In this chapter, he met Soraya, daughter of General Taheri, his fathers friend. Chapter Twelve   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir decided to court Soraya and she was kind enough to ask Amir to allow her to read his stories but Amir stopped courting her when Sorayas father saw the two talking alone in the market and he threw in the grabage the story he gave to Soraya. Baba was diagnosed of a incurable lung cancer but he does not want treatment and one day, he collapsed in a flea market. When Sorayas family visited them, the two were engaged. Soraya had a secret but was soon revealed and Amir envies her for that. Chapter Thirteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir and Soraya got married and she moves in the house of the two gentlemen because Baba was sick. She was the one who took care of Baba and reads Amirs stories. After a month, he died in his sleep. Amir was able to finish his first novel in 1988 and was released the following year and he remembered Hassans opinion in his writing ability. They were never able to have a child and considered adoption but ended up in adopting no one since General Taheri did not approve the idea. Chapter Fourteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir told Soraya that he has to go to Pakistan because Rahim Khan was sick. Amir thought that there is an unspoken secret between the two of them and that Rahim knows what happened to Hassan and what he did to get rid of him. Chapter Fifteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The protagonist went back to Pakistan to see Rahim Khan who was very ill. He told Amir the miserable life of Afghans under the ruling of the Talibans. He mentioned that he was happy when the Talibans defeated the Russians but he was wrong. Many people thought that the fighting would stop but it did not. Rahim told Amir that Hassan lived in Babas house togetehr with him in Kabul and he wanted to tell Amir what happened to Hassan. Chapter Sixteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In 1986, Rahim found Hassan and he was married already and his family was expecting for a child. Ali on the hand was killed by a land mine. Hassan being the loyal friend kept on asking about Amir and had always wanted to hear a letter from him. when he found out that Baba was already death, he wept. Hassan and his new family move with Rahim Khan to become servants s othat Amir will not be offended. Hassans child was born and later, his mother came and they nursed her from a knife attack. Just when Hassan was finally teaching his son of kite fighting, it was prohibited by the Talibans and many Hazaras were massacred. Chapter Seventeen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir asked were he can find Hassan but Rahim gave him a picture of Hassan with his son and with it was a letter stating the hard life under the Taliban rule. Hassan and his wife was shot dead when they refused to leave the house. Rahim ask Amir to get the 10 years old son of Hassan named Sohrab and revealed that Hassan was his brother. Chapter Eighteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir got mad upon realizing that his father was a thief ib the sense that he stole his brother and he at the same time dishonored Ali but in the long run, he did the same when he betrayed the person who would do anything for him and thought that Hassans life could have been better if he was with him in America. He tehn decided to go in Kabul. Chapter Nineteen   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In entering Afghanistan, a man named Farid helped him. The latter was at first dislikes the protagonist thinking that he will only sell property. They stayed in Wahids house and was served with dinner and Amir found the children looking at him. He revealed that his reason why he came back to Afghanistan was mainly to get his half brothers son. He overheard Wahid and his wife arguing because of the food but Wahid insisted that Amir should be given even if they dont have any because he is a guest. Amir and Farid left and gave the watch to the children but upon realizing that what they were looking at was the food, he placed money underneath the matress so that the kids can find it and they will be able to buy food. It was actually his second time to leave money but the first one was to set up Hassan. This actions only shows that he already grew up as a mature person. Chapter Twenty   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   When Amir entered Kabul, he was shocked to find several children begging. Together with Farid, they tried to find the orphanage where Sohrab was living. Amir convinced the director to help them and when he finally let him in, he broke the news that a Talib official already bought Sohrab. Farid got mad and accussed the director of making money out of the children and started to strangle the director. Amir stopped him and the director explained himself. He stated that he had no choise but to sell the kids of elese, the Taliban will take many children ad added that he had spent all his savings for the orphanage and ordered the two to go in Ghazi stadium and find an official will black sunglasses. Chapter Twenty-One   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   When Amir and Farid went to the formers childhood home, they found out that most rich Talibans are staying there and the following day, they went to the Ghazi stadium to find Sohrab or te person who bought him. They were watching a soccer game but during half time, a man and a woman were stoned to death because of adultery and finally, they saw a man with the black eyeglasses and immediately scheduled an appointment with him. Chapter Twenty-Two   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir went alone to see the official and this official was living in a very huge house. He was unkind and abused him verbally until he ordered to bring Sohrab in the room. Upon seeing Sohrab, he thought he looked like Hassan but he was dressed like a court jester with make up. The child was forced in dancing everytime a music was played. The official asked where Hassan was and when he finally took off his glass, he realized that it was Assef. In order to have Sohrab, Amir had to deal with Assef. If Amir wins, he can have Sohrab. When Assef was beating him, he lauged hard feeling that it was so comfortable and it angered Assef more. It was Sohrab who pointed the slingshot to Assef and helped Amir and Farid drove the car. Chapter Twenty-Three   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Amir collapsed and woke up after two days in the hospital with a broken jaw and several other injuries. At that time, Rahim already left and a letter was found saying that he should forgive himself and Baba. Amir needed to get out of Kabul soon because the Talibans were looking after him and he take Sohrab with him together with the money that Rahim left. Chapter Twenty-Four   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One night when Amir woke up, he noticed that Sohrab was gone and he found him in a mosque and the boy confessed that he does not fully remember what his parents look like and said that he was ashamed of what Assef did to him. Amir told him that they will go to America. He called his wife and told her that he wanted to adopt Sohrab but a man in the U.S. embassy said that it will be imposible to adopt Sohrab because theer is a need to present death certificates of the parents and a proof that Sohrab was his nephew. While Sohrab was staying in the orphanage, Soraya was busy arranging a humanitarian Visa. Sohrab became upset and when Amir found him in the bathroom, he was bleeding and his wrist was slit using a razor blade. Chapter Twenty-Five   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The boy tried committing suicide instead of staying in the orphanage. He was able to survive but wished of dying and it has been a year before the boy spoke again even when the two went back to America. In a party by the Afghan-American community, the two played kite fighting and it seems like Amir and Hassans early years. Amir was the kite runner and they won. For the first time, Sohrab smiled at him.

Book Reviews Essay Example for Free

Book Reviews Essay 1. To what does the title of the book refer? Having a detailed and well-constructed setting in Packingtown, Chicago, Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle can easily be mistaken as a story that has its central on the setting. Therefore, it is but natural to point out that the title is referring to Packingtown itself. Reading thoroughly into the book, though, one is led to realize that the jungle actually refers to something larger than just the city where the story happens. Aside from a vivid description of the setting, which greatly resembles the darkness and gloominess of the jungle, a reader has to note what the characters in the story have to go through. The novel depicts scenes where characters do everything in their power to survive the cut-throat environment in which they live in. These scenes point to what the title actually refers to: the concept of survival of the fittest. Much as the most cunning animals in the jungle are those who survive, The Jungle reflects that those who are devious reign supreme. 2. What is the main point(s) of the book? Why did the author write it? Did the author achieve his objective? Upton Sinclair wanted to reveal the evils of the meat-packing industry during his time. But more than just wanting to abolish the barbarity of the meat industry, Upton Sinclair wanted to take a jab at the evils of capitalism and the meat industry was just a start for him. Being a socialist, the author wanted to show how capitalism is detrimental to the poor as it only makes the rich richer. Though Sinclair was not totally successful in abandoning capitalism, he was, at the very least, successful in urging the government to take a look at the meat-packing industry and take steps in bettering the said industry. To date, The Jungle remains one of the most influential books in American history. 3. When was the book written? Is that relevant in this case? The novel was written in 1906, which holds significance as to why the story was written. The setting depicted in the novel is one that Upton Sinclair has experienced, urging him to write the book. 4. What do you know about the life of the author that would have led him to write The Jungle? Upton Sinclair was born to a family who once enjoyed aristocratic status but was thrown into the binge of poverty towards the end of the 1870’s. Growing up in a poor environment and hearing stories of the rich lifestyle from his once wealthy grandparents had its mark on young Sinclair. This contrast between the rich and the poor greatly affected his writings. Aside from this, though, something that led him to write The Jungle was the introduction to the socialist philosophy during his college years. Not only did the philosophy instill the principles that were apparent in The Jungle, it literally pushed Upton Sinclair into the industry he represented in the novel. Being an avid fan of socialism, the author became a writer for a socialist paper that sent him to investigate the lives of stockyard workers – those working in the meatpacking industry included. 5. How well does The Jungle reflect political, urban, business and immigrant life in America in the early twentieth century? Do you think it is an accurate reflection? Why or why not? Upton Sinclair is often criticized for his tendency to exaggerate; hence, it can be assumed that his portrayal of what was happening in the meat-packing industry is sort of larger-than-life. Assuming that this is true, one can still not deny that The Jungle still is a reflection of the political, urban, business and immigrant life in America during the early twentieth century. Despite whatever embellishments were written in The Jungle, Upton Sinclair still truthfully revealed the atrocities regarding the capitalist society – how the immigrants have to fight for their lives in order to ensure survival in the city and how the authorities turn a blind eye to industries that have the capacity to â€Å"pay†. 6. What were the problems immigrants faced at the turn of the twentieth century? Are those problems still evident? How or how not is that the case? That is, what has changed or not changed in the last hundred years for immigrants? The face of immigration in the United States has changed several times in the past decade. Towards the end of the 19th and during the earlier parts of the 20th centuries, immigrants faced numerous kinds of discrimination. Coming to America under circumstances where the country was riddled with poverty, crime, and disease, the immigrants in this period were feared and ridiculed. They were seen by the majority as the source of everything bad in American society during that period. Also, the growing number of immigrants has led the U. S. government to take some steps to curb the entrance of more people into U. S. shores. Positive changes have occurred for immigrants as well. The quotas were eventually removed, welcoming more immigrants to fulfill their â€Å"American† dream. Also, the concept of white ethnicity shifted from scientific evidence to common knowledge – making race dependent on social boundaries rather than scientific definitions. 8. What did you like most and least about the book? I could have done without the overly vivid depictions of the meat-packing industry, though I also have to admit that it was those depictions that made the novel deliver an effective message. The fact that the book spoke truthfully of the anomalies in the food industry and urged changes that up to now I am benefitting from is what I loved most about it. Rarely do we come across a literary piece that affects lives as much. 9. What was the most important and/or interesting thing(s) you learned from reading the book? The most important thing I learned from the book is the beauty of socialism and an appreciation for the kind of capitalism that America has at the moment. I also found it interesting how a literary fiction greatly affected one aspect of corruption in the country. 10. Are there any other comments you would like to make that were not addressed above? Whether or not socialism would have been a better system for the United States is something that we all have to just imagine. I guess despite the evils that capitalism may present, one cannot deny that capitalism is not such a bad thing, considering how much growth it has brought to this country. We all just have to be wary of possible corruptions and act upon these when spotted. QUESTIONS FOR GRAPES OF WRATH 1. Who was John Steinbeck? Why did he write his book? What was there in the author’s background or the time period of the book’s writing that might have led him to write the book? Living in California most of his life (with just a brief stay in New York), John Steinbeck has been exposed to the events that went down in Californian history. Grapes of Wrath was a direct result of the happenings that transpired in America during the 1930’s. With the Great Depression dawning over the â€Å"Dust Bowl† states of Oklahoma and Texas, many of the farmers migrated to California. Steinbeck was a witness as to how California became crowded, making job and food scarce for the migrant farmers who became known as ‘Okies’. 3. What is the time period of the book’s action? The book’s action occurs mostly in the 1930’s – mostly 1930’s when the migration of the ‘Okies’ to California and when the discrimination occurred. 4. What were the attractions of California? Are there any parallels today? California was seen as the ‘salvation’ of the Okies farmers. It was a land that promised fertile lands which equated to jobs. Though California is no longer the agricultural land that it once was, it still is a refuge for people who want to get good employment. Instead of lands to till, California offers movie studios that equate to jobs for aspiring actors and actresses. 5. What was the opposition to the Okies? Was any of it valid? The ‘local’ Californians were greatly opposed to the Okies because they saw the migrants as threats wanting to take over the land as they once had over the Mexicans. Though total land domination was not what the Okies intended, 6. When was the book written? Why is that relevant? First published in 1939, Grapes of Wrath was penned in 1938. The time period is relevant as it tells a lot as to why Steinbeck chose the subject matter for the novel. 7. To what does the title of the book refer? Grapes of Wrath refers to the fruits of wrath. John Steinbeck wants to communicate the good thing about maintaining a sense of anger towards people who intend to clip your wings or who attempt to trample your dignity. There’s this line in the novel that clearly depicts this: â€Å"as long as fear turn to wrath† – when fear turns to wrath, self-respect is maintained. 9. How well did the book expose what some would call the social ills of the nation? Many have criticized the book to be merely a sentiment rather than a true exposure of the social ills of America during the time of its publication. However, its continuing popularity to date – not just with casual readers but with students as well – reflects just how effective Steinbeck was in exposing the ills of society. Even though the story was something central to the setting, the morals and themes exposed still rings true at present times, making Grapes of Wrath a truly classic story. 10. Do you think the book is an accurate reflection of America at that time? Why or why not? I guess even with the contention from some Americans, Grapes of Wrath is an accurate reflection of 1930’s America. With the Great Depression dawning over America, one cannot blame the people for being selfish and doubtful of other people. And though Steinbeck’s novel is considered fiction, the stories depicted in it are those that have been painted in history books as well. 11. What have been some of the racial criticisms of Steinbeck? Why? In this novel, John Steinbeck focuses on â€Å"white† racism. He mostly deals with a rich white to poor white discrimination. He wanted to paint the discrepancy between the rich and poor at that time. Though he also touched on discrimination of the black Americans in Chapter 19, â€Å"Why, Jesus, theyre as dangerous as niggers in the South! If they ever get together there aint nothin thatll stop em. † Steinbeck wanted to reiterate the fact that racism exists and that it is still an issue Americans have to address. 12. What does the book say about the state of socialism or communism in America at that time? What are the author’s greatest criticisms of capitalism? Are they valid? Explain. John Steinbeck portrayed America in a state of unrestricted capitalism. His greatest critique of this kind of philosophy is that the â€Å"haves† continually drive the â€Å"have nots† into extreme poverty. Because of inconsideration and a desire to constantly acquire more wealth, the landowners and bank people deprive the small landowners and share-croppers of the basic needs of survival, such as the case with oranges being spilled with kerosene. Basing on accounts of the Great Depression, one can say that Steinbeck did paint a realistic picture. Given that, one can say that his criticisms are valid in that they needed attention from the people and action towards change. 13. If the author’s points are valid regarding problems depicted in the book, then why weren’t there more violent uprisings? Violent uprisings were not possible given the fact that most of the poor people have survival as their primary concern. With families starving, small landowners and share-croppers worry more about where their next meal will come from rather than how they can better their lives through insurgency. 14. Do you think Steinbeck supported or rejected the New Deal? Explain. Explain what the book has to say about the effects of technology, both negative and positive. Though the ending of Grapes of Wrath shadows Steinbeck’s belief that communism may be a better way of living (the breastfeeding scene tells that sharing of resources is a better option as compared to capitalism), I think Steinbeck may have accepted the New Deal in that it aimed to put a control over capitalism. 15. How did the philosophy of Jim Casey, who some critics say embodied the ideas of Steinbeck more than any other character, fit the philosophy of the New Deal? Jim Casey was the voice of reason in Grapes of Wrath. His philosophy meshes well with the New Deal as it speaks of how Steinbeck wanted ‘structure’ in the capitalism ruling over America. New Deal streamlines programs that will attempt at balancing the scale that at that time favors the rich and tip it to favor the oppressed. 16. What did you like most and least about the book? Steinbeck’s novel had too many characters that one needs to keep track of. However, his point of view and manner of narration was effective, making one crave for the pages to come. 17. What was the most important and/or interesting thing(s) you learned from reading the book? Much like Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle, The Grapes of Wrath makes one see into commercialism as not entirely the evil that everyone may lead to believe. Proper control of the businesses and willingness in everyone to help each other out is just what we need to make capitalism work and to have it fair for all involved. 18. Why did some Americans not like the book? Some, if not most, Californians and Oklahomans at the time of publication did not appreciate Grapes of Wrath because of the thinking that they were poorly – if not wrongly – represented in the novel. They argue that the books’ depiction of the events were not true to life. 20. Are there any points you would have liked to see developed more in the book? I would have liked to see more of what kind of steps Steinbeck wanted America to partake. It would have been a more effective read had there been more suggestions as to what the citizens or government needed to do to alleviate poverty. 21. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not? I would certainly recommend this book to others because I enjoyed reading it. It gave me a look into American history that I never would want to be repeated in present times. Given this, it made me realize what I need to do to prevent history from repeating itself. 22. Are there any other points you would like to make that were not addressed above? I guess all points have been discussed in the above questions. QUESTIONS FOR IN RETROSPECT, The Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam 1. Who was Robert McNamara? Why did he write his book? Robert McNamara was the United States’ 8th Secretary of Defense. The book IN RETROSPECT: The Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam was born out of his experiences as the Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War. 2. What are topics covered in the book? What is the book’s time period? Why? After a brief autobiography of his life up to the point when he was appointed by President John F. Kennedy as Secretary of Defense, Robert McNamara went on to discuss everything he knew about the Vietnam War. In each chapter, he outlined how America came to a point of deep involvement with South Vietnam’s fight against succumbing to communism. He detailed JFK’s decisions and on to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s plans on Vietnam. Since this is mostly about the Vietnam War, the book covers the 1960’s. 3. What were the arguments for staying in Vietnam during the 1950s and ‘60s? JFK’s reason for involvement in Vietnam is containment, suppressing communism and ensuring American influence in Asia. When JFK started to withdraw U. S. troops in Vietnam, he was shortly assassinated. When LBJ took over, U. S. troops were still highly visible in Vietnam. On top of pressure for more military support, LBJ’s reason was that he wanted to retaliate for attacks on the American presence in Vietnam. 4. What does McNamara say are the false assumptions the U. S. had about the Vietnam War in the early and mid 1960s? Being a strong to reckon with, America has falsely assumed that it can – single-handedly – prevent communism and help South Vietnam fight off the force of the North. What America failed to see was that it needed the support of other nations regarding the causes being fought in the Vietnam War. Also, America thought South Vietnam needed Americans to fight their war when in fact all they would have needed was mere aid. 5. Why did the U. S. escalate the war in the mid 1960s? The attacks on the U. S. troops at the Tonkin Gulf led to the escalation of the war in 1965. 6. What does McNamara say were some of the basic questions we failed to ask and answer before committing U. S. forces in Vietnam? McNamara listed the following basic questions that we failed to ask ourselves before involving ourselves deeper into the Vietnam War: (a) Was it true that the fall of South Vietnam would trigger the fall of all Southeast Asia? (b) Would that constitute a grave threat to the Wests security? (c) What kind of war — conventional or guerrilla — might develop? (d) Could we win it with US troops fighting alongside the South Vietnamese? And (d) Should we not know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to commit troops? 7. Why does McNamara feel that a greater U. S. military effort in Vietnam would have been disastrous? McNamara felt that escalating war in Vietnam will have its grave effects mostly because the effort will not be something that the Congress has agreed upon, leading to unrest from the American people. Also, the fact that America has failed to answer the â€Å"five basic questions† prove that America really is yet unready to take things a step further in Vietnam. 8. Are there any lessons from the Vietnam War that might have significance for America’s current policy in Iraq? Though unified agreement on a looming war is impossible, America should have learned from Vietnam the lesson that the nation needs to be unified in the causes of a war. Also, America should wholly ready in facing any impending war instead of making head-on collisions without any preparations. 10. What is the most important thing you learned from the book? The book taught me about a period in my country’s time that I was not able to bear witness to. It made me understand as to why Americans had the sentiments about Vietnam and why the same sentiments are being applied to Iraq. 11. Did you like the book? Why or why not? Though the book was a historical account rather than a fictional stab at past events like the books above, I did enjoy reading it. It also made me look into events that have unfolded as of late. 12. What sources did the author use to make his points? McNamara pointed to his own experiences to drive his point. 13. Does the author achieve what he set out to do? I think Robert McNamara was fairly effective in opening the eyes of the nation to the truths about the Vietnam War. The objective was achieved because for the first time, Americans were able to get a perspective from an insider. It was a relief to actually get an admission of the mistakes of the Vietnam War straight from the â€Å"author of the Vietnam War† himself. 14. Are there any points you would have liked to see developed in the book more? I guess the book pretty much covered all bases, especially since we were getting an â€Å"insider’s perspective†. 15. What have you learned from reading this book? I have learned that by looking deep into the inner workings of the Vietnam War will prevent America from making the same mistakes over again. Also, I learned that a deliberation of the nation’s actions will yield better results than making hurried decisions. 16. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not? To any American who cares to have a glimpse of one of the most eventful periods of America, I will recommend this book because this is a really good insight to the Vietnam War. Also a lot of lessons can be learned from it. 17. Are there any other comments you would like to make that were not addressed above? None, everything has been said above. QUESTIONS FOR THE KITE RUNNER 1. What is the time frame and location of the book? Kite Runner takes us to Afghanistan during the last days of monarchy (1973) into recent times. We also get glimpses of America but the story mostly occurs in Afghanistan. 2. What did you learn about the history of Afghanistan from reading the book? Afghanistan’s history is very much described by socioeconomic class, with the lower classes having little to almost no hope of moving up the ladder. Discrimination was central to the poor and this discrimination led to uprisings and upheaval of monarchy. I have also learned how the history of Afghanistan was riddled with a lot of turmoil such as civil war and the Soviet invasion. I also got a glimpse of how the Talibans started to try and take control. 3. What did you learn about the Cold War? The Cold War left Afghan in a more turbulent state, having been in the center of two superpowers’ desire to take over. Having acquired help from Soviet Union, Afghanistan became sort of a target for the U. S. , who saw an opportunity to bring down the communist country. 4. What did you learn about the immigrant experience from reading the book? Did it support or change your views about immigrants? The book supported my view about immigrants. Immigrants are not entirely a trouble to a country, as one may have been led to believe by previous media works. Immigrants, who have as much difficulty leaving their homelands as settling in a new place, can actually contribute something good to the country. Amir, in one hand, lived in America righteously. 5. What part of the book was the most memorable or meaningful to you? For me, the part where Amir tells Sohrab about his father Hassan is the most memorable part of the book. Not only was it emotionally-laden but any child who has had a good relationship with his/her father can relate to it. It proves that bonds within families are the most important of all. 6. Farid (Amir’s driver) tells Amir that Amir has always been a tourist in Afghanistan – he just didn’t know it (page 323). Do you agree or not? Why? Do you think it’s true for you in your country? I do agree with what Farid told Amir. Amir’s story is not a story that tells what a normal Afghan will go through during the time of the story’s writing. Amir was born of money, something that only a few Afghans have the privilege of having. I don’t think I am like Amir though, because my lifestyle and family stature are what one can describe as being in the middle spectrum of American society. 7. What did you learn about Afghanistan and the Middle East from reading this novel? I learned that the turbulences that we hear in the news of Afghanistan and the Middle East are something that has deep roots in the nations’ histories. 9. Were you surprised to read about the racial tension between the Pashtuns and Hazaras? Why do you think the oppression existed? Does it have parallels in America? I guess I can say that I was surprised to read about the racial tension between Pashtuns and Hazaras. I think the oppression came from the fact that the majority group (Pashtuns) wanted to eliminate the minority (Hazaras). This was mainly because they had different beliefs and they wanted one belief to reign supreme. Though in present-day America, this kind of oppression no longer exists, one can recall the kind of racial tension during the American Civil War. 10. Did the end of the book express hope for the future? Why or why not? The ending, for me, presented a lot of hope as I think Sohrab’s little smile is a step towards achieving better things not only for Sohrab himself but for Afghanistan and the Afghanis. Amir allowing a link of the past and the present and a reversal of roles symbolizes the fact that if one is willing to give way, things will eventually be better. 11. How did the book get its title? Who was the kite runner? The original kite runner was Hassan. The act of flying a kite expresses â€Å"controlled† freedom as flight is controlled by that string that binds it. 12. What did you like most and least about the book? The book was generally a sad one, painting stories that are almost heart-wrenching. But since it was a book that presents hope and is a book that has great potential to move people into action, I loved reading it. 13. Why did Baba like Ronald Reagan? Why do you think the neighbors disliked the president? Known for his acceptance of immigration, it was but natural that Baba liked Ronald Reagan. The neighbors, though, disliked the president because he was known to have passed policies that sank America into greater poverty. Baba’s neighbors blamed the president for the oppressed state they were in. 14. Who are the Taliban and how are they portrayed in the book? Do you think the portrayal is accurate? The Talibans were portrayed as the â€Å"bad people†, being shown to do random killings and unjust executions. If one is to believe the things being aired in the news, one can say that the portrayal was accurate. Given that the story was written by an Afghan, one may also assume that the portrayal can only ring the truth. 15. The book talks a lot about courage. Cite some examples of how courage was displayed. Who do you think was the most courageous character? I think the most courageous character was Hassan. His acts of covering up for Amir and standing up against the Talibans are prime examples of courage. 16. With which character did you feel the greatest attachment? Why? I had the greatest attachment to Hassan. He was a real friend and a real admirable character, making him someone that people easily want to know. Please let me know if you have any further question.

Microwave power transmission using rectenna

Microwave power transmission using rectenna   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Abstract microwave power transmission using rectenna A high efficient rectanna was design and tested at 5.8GHz frequency, which is use to power up applications. Patch antenna used with a low return low simulated in ADS. The micro-strip patch is a good practice for manufacturing physical antenna, as it will be easy to fabricate. The designed patch antenna have been employed in a 22 and 14 triangular antenna array so that the power and gain can be increased. The patch antenna captures the RF signal and then feed through 50 ohm feed line into the low pass filter and then into the rectifying circuit giving DC power. A low pass filter at 5.8 GHz was constructed. The diode used for the rectifying circuit is HSMS 2862 or HSMS 2080 schottky. A comparison analysis has been done between different designs of antenna. The results compared and best possible DC voltage was achieved in ADS simulation. ADS results achieved by simulating the designs for antennas, low pass filters and rectifying circuits were efficient. The designs were manufactured. The result generated from the physical antenna and the simulation is studied. Chapter 1 1 Introduction As the technology is growing the world is now moving toward wireless power. We can see that now days everyone prefers to use a wireless mouse or a wireless headphone. The use of batteries can make this possible but the problem is that too many batteries are being used and there has to be a way by which these applications can run wirelessly and the best thing would be if the batteries were not used. How can this be possible? This is the problem which we will try to solve in the design. The rectanna used will convert the RF power into dc signal and instead of batteries the application will have a rectanna to produce the power. Therefore we will have a true wireless system, which has no wires and no batteries. Although we have to agree that may be so power will not be produced by these rectanna but still as the technology increase, the rectanna manufacturing will also be improved. The word ‘rectenna as we know today was first introduced by Brown [4]. The basic concept of rectanna is a â€Å"rectifying antenna†. In other word an antenna which will be used for receiving RF signal and a rectifying circuit which is used to give us DC power. Personally I view rectanna as a wireless battery, which is a very cool device. Wireless power transmission (WPT) can be viewed as an electrical grid which generates power. WPT is the technology which is used for wireless transmission of power, this will be used in future for solar power satellites [4]. Let me explain the concept in detail. As the satellites are orbiting around the earth 24 hour and the satellites have the capability to convert the solar power into RF signals and then beam those RF signal to the earth. Array of antennas will be used to capture those RF signals and the rectifying circuits to convert those into DC power. If sufficient amount of array antennas are used, a lot of power can be produced. The electrical power station would be viewed as RECTANNA stations where RF signal would be converted into DC power. 1.1 History of Microwave Power Transmission Tesla was the first person who introduced the idea of wireless power transmission. Tesla was not able to produce power with the RF signal because the transmitted power got diffused in all the direction with 140 KHz radio signal [4]. The problem faced by Tesla was overcome, by the fact that higher RF frequency has greater directivity and so the power can be transmitted in a particular direction. Radar technology used in world-war 2 was also very helpful in advancing the growth of wireless power. In the early 1960s W.C. Brown used that latest technology to produce wireless power for the first time. The word â€Å"Rectanna† which we use today was first developed by W.C. Brown. He used an antenna with a rectifying circuit to produce power. The conversion was very good. Based on browns research work, where P.E. Glaser in 1968 introduced a solar power satellite [4] [3]. 1.2 Objectives The object of this thesis is to design a rectanna which will be able to receive microwave energy at 5.8 GHz and then converting that signal to DC power. This thesis will also help to provide a new ways of exploring energy resources. A secondary objective is to reduce the return losses so that maximum output can be achieved. A comparison analysis is done between series and parallel configuration of the 5.8ghz antenna. 1.2.1 Scope of thesis: Perform a good and comprehensive literature review so that all the concepts of RF electronics could be understood. Understand different antenna designs and test them to get the best possible result. Simulating and creating a functional micro-strip patch antenna design suitable for the rectenna frequency of operation of 5.8 GHz. Designing, simulating and creating the rectifier circuit. 1.3 Thesis Outline The thesis was completed in two semesters. Each a certain number task must be completed. Semester 1: Involves literature review of patch antenna, low pass filter and rectifier. The array of antenna design will also be taken under consideration and will be tested and simulated in ADS software and a prototype of 44 circular and triangular patch antenna will be build for testing purpose. Semester I Introduction to the topic Finding the research papers and resources Literature review Design proposal Simulation in ADS Operational system in ADS Prototype for testing Semester 2: The 2nd semester was utilized to make better designs and operation of antennas. Rectifying circuit will be improved as well. An application will be tested, so that the patch antenna can be used to power a small application. Semester II Tweaking of the design Making system efficient Measurements and results Comparison analysis of design Documentation and final report Chapter 2 2 Introduction To Literature Review This section outlines brief theory of micro-strip patch antennas .. The library resources were used extensively and the journals related to the power transmission using rectanna were studied in detail. The articles were used to get idea about the design as well as methods of adapting the microwave techniques. 2.1 Motivation The possibility of transferring power wirelessly can open up infinite applications. The fact that wireless application will not be powered by the batteries but instead use RF signal to generate the power is so extraordinary that everyone would want to be a part of the technology. The idea of using the solar space satellites to create power is not very new. It was first presented in 1968 by Peter E. Glaser [4] [3]. The area of wireless power is not only limited to power generation by satellites but in fact it can be used in daily electronics, such as a wireless headphone, wireless keyboard, wireless mouse and even in wireless small motors. This research will give me a glimpse of future technologies that lies ahead of us. 2.2 What I Want to Achieve At the end of this thesis I hope to have a rectenna which will convert RF signals into DC power and that DC power will be used for any selected application. 2.3 Important Points About Antenna An antenna is device which is made so that it can radiate and receive radiating power from the electromagnetic wave. There are some important points that we need to know about antenna before proceeding towards the main antenna design. 2.3.1 Antenna gain: The ratio of input power to the output power is called antenna gain. 2.3.2 Directivity: The property of antenna to radiate electromagnetic waves in a particular direction is called directivity. If the electromagnetic waves are concentrated in a particular direction then we can that antenna has good directivity. Directivity and gain are related to each other by the following formula. Gain = efficiency/Directivity. 2.3.3 Polarization: The phenomena of polarization can be understand as the orientation of electromagnetic waves at distance from the source. The polarization types have been show in the table below. 2.3.4 Impedance Matching: The energy transfer can only be possible if the antenna and the transmission lines are matched. Typically 50 ohm impedance is used for the radio. If the antenna is not match then the input power or the output power will be reflected back. As a result power will be lost and desired results will not be achieved. 2.3.5 VSWR and the Reflected power of antenna: The voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) is a parameter, which tells us that how good the impedance match is done. A VSWR of 2:1 is considered good. Most of the antennas which are built have a VSWR of 1.5:1. Chapter 3 3 Rectenna design 3.1 Introduction to rectenna The above diagram shows a basic design of a rectanna. The antenna receives the RF signals. The signal is passed to the low pass filter by a transmission line which has an impedance of 50 ohm. The low pass filter will filter the desired frequency so that unwanted frequency does not go through the rectifying circuit. The low pass filter is also used to stop the harmonics reflected back from the diode. The rectifying circuit is used in double configuration. The double configuration is used so that maximum RF signal can be converted into DC power. Schottky diodes will be used in the rectification process as they have low voltage drop across it. The overall efficiency of the rectanna can be determined by ?= PdcPinc, Pdc is the DC output power. Pinc is the Incident RF power 3.2 Operating frequency The most common frequency used is 2.45GHz and 5.8GHz. The directivity of antenna is more at 5.8GHz. Over all a lot of applications are available at these frequencies. 3.3 Substrate Material Taconic TLX-0 was used for the physical design of the antennas. It has the following properties: H = 0.787 mm(height) T = 17  µm er= 2.45 TanD = 0.0019 Taconic TLX-0 laminate are low loss antennas.[8] 3.4 Design Specifications Chapter 4 4 Array Antennas and Design: 4.1 Introduction to Array Antennas and Design In this section is related with the antenna design in detail and the array antenna design for achieving greater power. 4.2 Micro-strip Patch Antenna The patch antenna is triangular. It has 3 layers. The bottom layer is the ground, middle is the dielectric substrate and the upper layer which is made up of copper or gold. As you can see in the figure, the 3 layer are shown. The patch antenna radiates because of the fringing fields between the ground and the patch. For good performance the thick dielectric should be used with a low dielectric constant [13]. As the design does not allow us to use a thick dielectric, otherwise the size of the antenna would be very big, so in our design a thin dielectric with high dielectric constant would be used. A micro strip antenna has some advantages and some drawback. Some of the advantages and drawbacks are given in the table. ADVANTAGES OF MICROSTRIP ANTENNA Light weight and have low volume with low profile. Fabrication cost is low, easily manufactured in big quantities. Circular and Linear polarizations can be made in them. Dual frequency and dual-polarization is also possible with this. Microwave integrated circuits can be integrated with them as well. The antenna structure can be fabricated with Feed lines and matching networks within. Figure 7 Advantages of microstrip DISADVANTAGES OF MICROSTRIP ANTENNA Bandwidth Narrow Lower gain Large losses with the feed structure. Cannot be high power handling capacity Figure 8 Disadvantages of microstrip 4.3 Feed Technique There are two types of feeding techniques Contacting: In this type feed network the RF signal is feed directly into the patch antenna. Non contacting: In this configuration electromagnetic field coupling occurs due to transfer of energy between the line of mirco-strip and the patch. 4.3.1 Micro-strip Line Feed As you can see in the figure the simplest way of having a feed line is to attach a transmission line feed with the edge of the antenna. This feed line technique is very useful as the feed line and the antenna are both on the same plane. The structure is on the same surface and area is also reduced. It has a better utility as now the antenna (with the feed line) can be place in numerous applications. The thickness of the feed line determines the impedance of the line. 4.4 ANALYSIS 4.4.1 Triangular patch antenna : As we know that lots of work have been on rectangular patch antennas and the circular patch but for my design I will be using a triangular patch so that the radiation pattern and the return losses can be studied. The size of the triangular patch is smaller than the rectangular patch, so a much more efficient design. The design formulas are, in the later sections of the report. 4.4.2 Design specifications 4.4.2.1 TRANMISSION LINE MODEL : In my design I have used the transmission line model to develop the concepts and theory behind the triangular patch antennas the equilateral triangular patch was also design using the transmission model. Resonant frequency The resonant frequency is given by [14] fr=ckmn2pEr =2c3aEr(m2 +mn+n2)1/2 1 In the above equation c is the velocity of the light in the free space. Er is the dielectric constant and K(mn) are the different modes of harmonic order. The lowest order resonant frequency given by [14] fr=2c 3aEr2 The effect of fringing field was not consideration in the above equation. The fringing field occurs at the antenna patch edge. In our case the fringing field will occur at the edge sides of the equilateral triangle. The fringing fields are depended on the physical dimension of the triangular patch and the height of the substrate material. The figure below shows the field lines of a micro-strip antenna. The maximum amount of field lines are going into the substrate and some of them are in the air. The side of a patch is increased due to the fringing field effect. The side length of a triangular patch antenna will no longer will be the same as we have to take account of the effective dielectric constant Ee. The modified equations are given below. The equation above does not take given very accurate results, as it does not consider the fringing fields produced by the antennas. The Er in equation (1) and (2) can be replaced by effective dielectric constant. The dielectric constant given by [14] Ee=Er+12+Er-14(1+12h/a)-12 3 Similarly the a can be replaced by aeff (effective). The value of the aeff (effective) given by [14] aeff=a+hEr -4 Where h is the height of the material Thus equation 2 can be replaced with the effective value of aeff and Ee giving us the final equation given by [14] fr=2c 3aeffEe5 4.4.3 Excitation technique: 4.4.3.1 Micro-strip feed: The location of feed point is determined according to dimension of the antenna. Once we have calculated the accurate dimension of the antenna then we have to connect it with a 50ohm transmission line. In my design I will be using the center fed for the patch antenna. There are two ways to do this. The first is using a quarter wave transformer and the 2nd is to use the inset model. 4.4.3.2 INSET MODEL: A triangular patch antenna was designed using the inset model. The advantage of using the inset model is that the size of the antenna reduces as compared to the quarter wave transformer design [14]. The length of the triangular patch is d. the length of transmission patch is l and the width of the transmission patch is w. the width and length of transmission patch if design do that a 50ohm impedance can be achieved. 4.4.3.3 Quarter Wavelength Transformer The quarter wave transformer is a system which is used to match the impedance. As we know that the resistance Rin of the antenna will not matched with the feed line which has a impedance of 50 ohm. A formula is used to calculate the impedance of the quarter wave transformer. 4.5 Antenna design The calculation for different antennas was designed in ADS. And the result will be shown in much detail the later sections of the report. The operating frequency is 5.8GHz. The result show in the table below is for triangular patch. 4.6 Introduction to Array theory The range of the system can be increased by array of antennas which are working together and the focus of the reception or transmission of energy also increase in a particular direction[10]. The antenna in an array can be manufactured on a micro-strip with a feed network and a power divider. There are two kinds of feed network in array antennas Single line(series feed network) Multiple feed network The series-feed network in an array of antennas is limited with a fixed beam[13]. We can see that series feed is easy to manufacture as it has the same configuration which repeats. There is a major disadvantage, any change to a single element can affect the remaining elements. The antenna elements are fed by a 1 to N (in corporate network).The power divider network has a identical path lengths to all the elements, from the feed point [13]. The phase of the element can be controlled in the corporate network with the help of phase shifters. Amplifier can be used to fix the amplitude [13]. 4.6.1 The Array Factor The array factor depends on Number of elements Element spacings Amplitude Excitation phase which is applied to each elements within the array 4.6.2 Array design As we see in the previous section that that array design is deeply affected by the element of spacing, so for 5.8 GHZ antenna the wavelength is 51.72mm, based on these factors the element spacing for 5.8GHZ antenna the element spacing should be 38.79mm. We can see that the element spacing is 0.75 % of the given wavelength. As we can see in the below figure that the quarter transformer is matched with antenna which has a impedance of 100ohm. The 100ohm line are combined together and gives a resulting impedance of 50ohm at the meeting point of the line. In the last the two 100ohm lines are combined to give a 50ohm impedance which is same for a feed line. 4.6.3 Metering of Corners In our design we are using a microstrip. So with the mircostrip antennas, the 90% angle at any corner can cause large reflection from the 90% degree angle. So a smooth edge has to be made, so that there are no reflection losses. To reduce the reflection factor the edges are metered at the corner so that there is a smooth flow of current. A equation can be used to metered the corners which is given by the equation below. 4.7 Simulation results in ADS 4.7.1 Single triangular patch 4.7.1.1 Single triangular patch : 4.7.2 Single patch with inset model: 4.7.2.1 Single patch with inset model: 4.7.3 2X2 triangular patch with inset model: 4.7.4 14 linear triangular patch: 4.7.5 Single patch with quarter wave transformer 4.7.6 22 triangular patch with quarter wave transformer CHAPTER- 5 LOW PASS FILTER 5 Low Pass Filter 5.1 Introduction to low pass filter In this chapter we will discuss the low pass filter and why is it important for the rectanna design. The techniques which will be used and calculation used to make a low pass filter. The results which are calculated by the ADS calculation will also be show in this section. 5.2 Theory behind LPF The antennas which were designed in the previous section was for 5.8Ghz but still some extra frequencies have to be filtered. The rectifying circuit also cause reflection from the first harmonics. To stop those reflection from the diode, LPF is used. LPF is extensional for the design as it can increase the power of the antenna. The LPF block the signal coming back from the diode and so the phenomena of re-radiation does not occur. The LPF is usually designed for the lower frequencies. We can use lamped component for the design but there is a problem with that. The lamped component can also cause reflection, so SMT components should be used to avoid the reflections from the inductor or the resistors. There is another good way, instead of using lumped component, the LPF can also be designed on the same transmission line by using Richard transmission. I think it would be the best thing for our design because then we would be able to make the design on the same surface. The whole design would have the same physical platform and planer surface can be achieved. There are two kinds of low pass filter which we can use in our design. Equal ripple Maximum flat 5.3 LPF Design The filter can be designed by using â€Å"Richardson method from chapter of Micro-wave engineering by david pozar[9]. We have to get the values from the table then Richard transformation is used to get the series inductors and the stub used and the shunt capacitors to shunt stubs. For Richard ?/8 at ?= ?C. Then the 2nd step would be to use the kuroda identity to series stub and shunt stubs. For the frequency of ?/8 at 2.45 GHz) and (?/8 at 5.8 GHz) we need to apply the impedance and the frequency scaling to get the accurate value. 5.3.1 Equal ripple low pass filter 5.3.2 Maximum low pass filter 5.4 Simulation results from ADS 5.5 LPF AT 5.8GHZ 5.5.1 LFP EQUAL RIPPLE (5.8GHZ) 5.5.2 LPF MAX FLAT(5.8GHZ) CHAPTER 6 6 RECTIFYING CIRCUIT FOR RECTENNA 6.1 INTRODUCTION TO RECTIFYING CIRCUIT FOR RECTENNA The final stage of the rectenna design is the rectanna which actually converts the RF signal into the DC voltage. As the diode has its own impedance so we have to match the impedance of the rectifying circuit as well. The method by which the impedance was match and the results obtained from the ADS simulation will be looked. 6.2 Single Rectifier design The single diode configuration is very easy to understand. In the positive wave of the AC signal the diode d5 is forward biased and the capacitor is being charged. When the negative wave come, the diode is reverse biased and no current crosses the diode and at that time the capacitor is providing the voltage. As the capacitor is providing the voltage we have small ripples in the simulation and in practical applications. 6.3 Single voltage quadrupler: The quadrapler provides 4 times the voltage as campared to the single rectifying circuit. The configuration is easy to fabricate and easy to understand. In the positive cycle the 2nd diode and the 4th diode is forward biased allowing the capacitor c4 and c1 to be charged. In the negative cycle the 1st and the 3rd diode are reversed biased and the capacitor c3 and c2 are being charged. The four capacitor voltages adds up before the resistor, giving us four times the voltage at the resistor. 6.4 Four 5.8 ghz with quadraupler in parallel configuration: In this design we have again used a quatrupler configuration bt this time we are using 4 sources in parallel with each other. The four parallel source were used to replicate the design, when 4 parallel antennas are used and then feeding into a single quadrupler rectifier configuration. The results are show below. 6.5 Four 5.8 ghz with four individual quadraupler rectifier in parallel configuration: The difference between the above design and this design is that, this time individual rectifier is being used with a single 5.8ghz source. The configuration is used in parallel combination. 6.6 Four 5.8 ghz with quadraupler in series configuration : In the design below a series combination was used. Four 5.8ghz source which is acting like a 5.8ghz patch antenna are configured in series conbination. The output from the source is then feed into the voltage quadrupler. The results are shown below. 6.7 HSMS 2862k Diode parameters Chapter 7 7 Conversion efficiency 7.1 Introduction to Conversion efficiency The design with different configuration was tested in ADS simulation. Now we have to move towards the physical antennas and we need to determine how we can mearsure the efficiency of a rectanna. When the antenna designs are manufactured we will tested the parrallel combination with the series combination. We will be comparing two designs. 14 array of antenna 22 array of antenna Chapter 8 8 Complete Rectenna design In this section we will see the complete rectanna design on a single surface. Which means that the low pass filter and the rectifying circuit will be on the same surface as that of the array antennas The dimension and the simulated results of all the component were shown in the above sections of the report. Chapter 9 9 CONCLUSION As we have seen that all the design of the antennas and the other component were tested at maximum in ADS and the results obtained from the ADS simulation shows that we are on the right track and we will be cable of manufacture a good efficient antenna is the next semester. The antenna will be able to convert the RF signal in DC power. The low pass filters were designed and we saw that the equal ripple filter show a much better results and so we will be using that with our design. The rectifying circuit were build and tested and a practical results show that we need a minimum of 3dbm power, so that the SMT led can be turned ON. In the future a 5.8 ghz antenna with array of 22 and 14 will be made. The simulation of 22 and 14 antenna array is already done in ADS. The designs are ready for manufacturing. 9.1 Prototype and gerber Files for Manufacturing 10 Appendix References J.O. McSpaden J.C. Mnakins, â€Å"solar power programs and MWP(micro wave wireless power),† IEEE Micro, volume. 3, number. 4, pages. 46-57, Dec 2002 J.A. Hagerty and Z.Popovic, â€Å"experimental results of a broad band arbitrarily polarized antenna,† found in IEEE MTT-S Int. Moscow Sym. Dig., May 2001, volume 3.,pages 1855-1858 D.G.Guha, Y.M.Antar and J.Y. Siddiqui and M. Biswas â€Å"Resonanting resistance for microstrip-line-fed for a circular-micro-strip patches† Ieee Proc Microw. Antennas Propagation† found in volume 152, Number 6, Dec 2005 W C. brown, â€Å"history of wireless power transmisson† IEEE Transaction on Microwave Theory and Techniques, 1983 Wireless-Power-Transmission(WPT) for the use of Solar Power Satellite found at site www.sspi.gatech.edu (Accessed 13th June 2008) R.P. Jedelika, â€Å"measured mutal coupling between antennas and the patch antennas†, IEEE Trans. on Antennas and Prop., pp. 147-149 Jan. 1981 Change, K. â€Å"Radio frequency and Microwave Wireless Systems† by John Wiley and Sons, Inc 2000 Taconic material â€Å"TLX-0 Data Sheet† TACONIC Advanced Dielectric Division David, M. P. â€Å"Microwave Engineering, second edition by † John Wiley and Sons, Inc 1998 Chang.K. â€Å"Radio Frequnecy and Micro-wave power wireless wystems, Chapter 3 to Chapter 4 Antenna Systems† by John Wiley and Sons, Inc 2000 Kai.chang,RF and microwave wiresless system chapter.3 pp 89-98. 2000 I. J. Bahle and P. Bhartia, â€Å"Microstrip patch Antennas†, Artech House Inc, Dedham, MA 1980 Balanise, C.A â€Å"Antenna Theory and Analysis for Design by † Wiley-Interscience, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey 2005 I. J. Bahle and P. Bhartia, â€Å"Microstrip Antennas†, Artech House Inc, Dedham, MA 1980 Matsumoto. H Shinohara. N, â€Å"study on array of antennas for wireless power transmission† IEEE, volume. 46, number. 3, 1998 Bhartia, B. Roa and K.V.S. Tomar, R.S. â€Å"Millimeter-Wave Microstripe for Printed Circuit and Antennas† Arteche House, Inc, United States of America, 1991