#Computer Engineering vs Computer Technology

[tccicomputercoaching]

At TCCI Computer Coaching Institute, we are convinced that the differences between Computer Technology and Computer Engineering must be better grasped by students seeking a career in the world of technology. They share many similarities, though have a different focus and application pathways for careers.

Computer technology is concerned with the practical application of computing systems and software. It offers the training to design, develop, and manage computer systems and networks, with an emphasis on troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance. Graduates in computer technology usually work in IT support, network administration, and system management.

The counterpart to this is computer engineering; Computer engineering is the combination of both electrical engineering and computer science but involves designing and developing hardware as well as software systems. It deals with creating a new computer system that requires hardware devices as well as software applications.

[catenary-chad]

research tips for electric train whump:

-INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE SOURCES ARE YOUR FRIEND! There’s not much stuff specifically about trains but basic concepts (maintenance and repair of AC or DC motors, transformers, rectifiers, other heavy electrical equipment) largely carry over from sources about elevators or substations. There’s a lot of good videos on youtube about these topics, look into stuff aimed at apprentice electricians or industrial maintenance, it will generally be more visual/metaphor and less math-heavy if you struggle with that.

-many “breakdowns” are actually due to power infrastructure issues- third rail and catenary wires have different problems and these further vary based on how old they are. Fixed-tension catenaries on the former Pennsylvania Railroad are a notorious issue. The more modern the line, the less weird stuff you’ll have, but much of the US, parts of the UK, and a number of spots in mainland Europe have more unusual and antiquated electrification systems. And this is also an issue with model trains between brands and eras!

-On a related note, pantograph designs have varied by time and place and have different advantages/disadvantages/issues. You even have times when they have a uniquely bad time with old catenaries, like old Comet EMUs specifically getting snarled in those constant-tension PRR catenaries

-Never underestimate how “dumb” and un-computery a lot of electric trains actually are, especially circa the 80s. “Toaster” isn’t even an inaccurate insult for older DC-motor trains, they literally brake using huge resistors that put out a ton of heat… like a giant toaster. And the really old, simple stuff tended to last a stupidly long time in service so you can 1000% wave off a 20s-era engine or EMU in the 80s.

-If you want some really easy ones that have actually happened before: connecting to too strong of a power source and getting FRIED, and having wires ripped out willy-nilly by techs not familiar with electric trains that don’t know what they’re doing. Weaponized incompetence with anything electrical checks out with how even a lot of train people know very little about it and don’t care.

-model trains also have a lot of beginner-friendly electrical info you can work from

[i-hope-this-is-a-phase]

The First Floor

The Living Area

The home of any house: the heart of the Dream Team. Any half-decent home has a nice living area, and that certainly is the case for the Dream Team!

The Living Area consists of 9 rooms:

The TV Room

The Kitchen

The Dining Table

The Theater Room

The Hallways

The Laundry Room

The Fusion Room (previously the Gym)

The Loft

The TV Room

When you first enter the home, the TV room is on your right

It has a massive sectional sofa and a big-screen TV above the fireplace. IRL, this area is covered in blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, cat toys, and more.

The Dream Team can be found here watching a fellow streamer, a TV show, or more. And, luckily, this room is close to their kitchen for snacks, which brings us to our next room:

The Kitchen

The location of the first 3/3 stream, this kitchen is a versatile space. Its open concept allows it to be accessed from many directions, like the TV room and the Theater Room.

It has stools many stools for the Dream Team to sit at as they eat breakfast, as well as multiple fridges for all their food.

And, just beyond it lives the Dining Room.

The Dining Room

There's not much to say about the Dining Room, since the Dream Team rarely use it. It is used more as storage for all their excess papers.

But, on occasion, you may see Patches jump on it to drink a glass of water.

The Theater Room

Right next to the Kitchen, the Theater Room is featured often in George's Snapchats! If the Dream Team choose to, they can watch a movie here themselves or with a large party of friends.

One of the unique features of this room is its beautiful starry ceiling, which adds to the ambiance of the room.

The Hallways

Right next to the kitchen lie the hallways. The left door leads into the Fusion Room, the middle door leads to another hallway, and the right doorway leads to under the stairs!

You can find some cat toys under the stairs, as well as some equipment in the hallway that leads to the Fusion Room again and the Laundry Room.

The Fusion Room

What was once the gym has now become the Fusion Room! Covered in mats and cardboard walls, this area has been featured in both Dream and George's videos!

It is packed full of technology and why wouldn't it? It's a masterpiece of engineering and coding, and it shows.

The Laundry Room

Featured heavily in the "Titan vs. 20 Hiders" video, this room has multiple washers and dryers for the Dream Team to use!

I, unfortunately, do not have the Laundry Day pack, so there are no washers and dryers in this room. But, feel free to replace the cabinets with them if you download this build!

The Loft

The final room of the Living Area: this area leads to the Dream Suite, the backyard, and SNF's Domain.

It features a stunning spiral staircase as well as a Christmas tree, which Patches often can be found hiding under.

Dream

Dream's entire suite lies on the first floor! There are six rooms in Dream's suite:

Dream's Office

Dream's Bedroom

Dream's Walk-in Closet

Dream's Hallway

The Server Room

Dream's Bathroom

Dream's Office

Right between the back door and the stairwell, you can find Dream's office! It has two desks, a bed, and two computers for all the gaming he does.

As the keen-eyed observer may notice, Dream's iconic face-reveal video was done with a mirrored camera! In later streams and videos, the camera was not reflected.

Dream's Bedroom

Dream's bedroom is to the right after entering the double doors next to the TV room. It is the largest bedroom, with the iconic whiteboard, a master bed, and a TV to watch the Sooners' games!

To the left of his bed, you will see the mirror with which Dream takes his morning selfies! Remember when Dream didn't have a face.

Yeah, me neither.

Dream's Walk-in Closet

Nothing screams luxury than having a massive walk-in closet! Here, you will find many of Dream's Sooners' jerseys, his iconic hoodies, and more.

Of course, any good closet has many drawers, and this room has plenty for all the clothes he's hiding.

Dream's Hallway

It ain't much: just a transitionary space between the rooms. But, I think it defines why Drema's area is a suite rather than just "his rooms."

The Server Room

The home of the Internet, where the Dream Team got their fame. It's covered top-to-bottom with gadgetry that makes the global phenomenon of the Dream Taem possible.

It's just to the left when you enter Dream's suite, and it can be found right next to the bathroom.

Dream's Bathroom

We haven't gotten many photos of this room! But, we can assume there's a bath from the iconic "I'm in the bath" space, and we've seen the beautiful shower room mirror selfie before.

It's a grand bathroom, which fits since it is the master bathroom of the house.

And honestly, Dream deserves it for his hard work.

You can find the Second Floor Layout here!

[princesscolumbia]

So I had a thought about SexPal vs. Harrow

Both Palamedes and Harrowhark are both geniuses, and even Plamedes believes that Harrow is smarter than he is, but that begs the question, then, why did Sextus figure more things out quicker than Harrow did?

Coming from an entire family of Extremely High Intelligence people (nearly everyone on my dad's side of the family is some form of supergeek with careers in engineering, bio-sciences, computing technology, and that one uncle that nobody quite knows what he does but it's government-adjacent and he's not allowed to talk about it), I think I landed on the answer; knowledge of people.

By dint of his touch-psychic ability, plus the very obviously more social nature of The Sixth House, means that Palamedes has needed, by pure necessity, to bend some of his intellect to understanding the people about whom his magic gives him the information and with whom he must interact.

By contrast, Harrow had one (1) friend/rival/sibling/classmate/conspirator/bully growing up, and then at the moment she lost her parents and gained control of all of Drearburh she locked down The Ninth House, further limiting her already limited chances to interact with people at all. Her intellect had completely unfettered freedom to pursue knowledge and research for its own sake, ignoring the human component entirely if she so chose. Even the very finite contact with the people her magic was useful for was really only good after said people were already dead, as bone magic isn't really good for much besides maybe dentistry or chiropractic work.

Coming back to my family for a hot second; that one uncle who by nature of his work means he doesn't have much contact outside his job? He's terrible at people. He genuinely doesn't get how to people whatsoever. My aunt, who's the "black sheep" of the family and went into bio-sciences (not going into a pure technology-related field? How gauche!), deals with microorganisms and, as a hobby, dabbles in food science. Both of these vocations are about people and how they interact with the world in some fashion, so my aunt is leagues better than my uncle at people-ing. If there's a sociological element to any problem the family might have, we all know to go to my aunt and never my uncle.

The reason SexPal figures out the (imperfect) Lyctorhood before Harrow, the reason he's confused by her failure to have "solved it" like he did, is because being a lyctor involves another person so intimately they might as well be an extension of your own soul. Harrow grew up being terrified of people knowing her on that level so all her intelligence inherently tries to reject any application of people-ing to any problem she's trying to solve.

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

Closest recreation of some Blakist mech i found on the battlefield.

Looked like it had some kind of dampener keeping me from damaging it, so i put Blue Shield PFD on there. 3 guns called Lava guns, not a fucking clue what those are but Plasma Rifles do a similar trick. Ridiculous heat output, sure, but you do have Gauss rifles, so there's that i guess.

Nova CEWS doesnt match anything on the original mech, i just tossed it on there for... reasons. I feel like it and ECM is nice.

Blakist chatter about how it was designed by Jerome Blake himself, yadda yadda, you know the drill. The design spec is supposedly dated back to the 2780s or some shit. For a better historical context, the Schrek tank became standard field in around the 2810s. I think its altered, personally. I call bullshit, it may be cool but it CANNOT be that old.

Downsides? Made of glass and moves at Urby speeds. Like fucking yeesh. This thing crumpled when the "shield" went down.

Whatcha think of it?

(Based on the Ragnarok/Ymir from MechAssault, which i was asked to recreate in MML on a dare!!)

I have fought 3 of these in the past week. Smoke Jaguar forces fighting alongside the SLDF captured one intact.

Here is the official TRO we pulled from its onboard files:

Ragnarok RGNK-1X

Mass: 100 tons Chassis: Celestial Series SP1 Power Plant: Immortus 200 Cruising Speed: 21.6 kph Maximum Speed: 32.4 kph Jump Jets: None Jump Capacity: 0 meters Armor: Durallex Guardian II Clan-Grade Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE II Armament: 4 Micro Pulse Laser 1 Lava Gun 2 Light Gauss Rifle 1 LRM 10 Manufacturer: Word of Blake Primary Factory: Helios Manufactory Blake-Alpha Communication System: Master's Voice Cel-Alpha w/ C3i Targeting & Tracking System: Master's Sight 1-Omega Introduction Year: 3153 Tech Rating/Availability: F/X-X-X-X Cost: 26,688,667 C-bills

Type: Ragnarok Technology Base: Mixed (Experimental) Tonnage: 100 Battle Value: 2,097

Equipment Mass Internal Structure Composite 5 Engine (Armored) 200 Fusion 8.5 Walking MP: 2 Running MP: 3 Jumping MP: 0 Double Heat Sink 10 [20] 0 Heavy Duty Gyro (Armored) 4 Small Cockpit (Armored) 2 Armor Factor (Ferro) 307 16 Internal Structure Armor Value Head 3 9 Center Torso 31 47 Center Torso (rear) 15 R/L Torso 21 32 R/L Torso (rear) 10 R/L Arm 17 34 R/L Leg 21 42

Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand

Weapons and Ammo Location Critical Heat Tonnage Blake's Shield EDFG (Armored) all but HD 1/per - 3.0 Light Gauss Rifle Ammo (16) LL 1 - 1.0 Plasma Rifle RT 2 10 6.0 Plasma Rifle Ammo (20) RT 2 - 2.0 Double Heat Sink RT 2 - 1.0 Micro Pulse Laser RT 1 1 0.5 CASE II LA 1 - 0.5 Light Gauss Rifle (Armored) LA 5 1 12.0 CASE LA 0 - 0.0 Micro Pulse Laser LA 1 1 0.5 CASE II LT 1 - 0.5 CASE LT 0 - 0.0 LRM 10 Artemis-capable Ammo (24) LT 2 - 2.0 Double Heat Sink LT 2 - 1.0 LRM 10 LT 1 4 2.5 Artemis IV FCS LT 1 - 1.0 Micro Pulse Laser LT 1 1 0.5 Light Gauss Rifle Ammo (16) RL 1 - 1.0 Improved C3 Computer (Armored) HD 2 - 2.5 CASE II RA 1 - 0.5 Light Gauss Rifle (Armored) RA 5 1 12.0 CASE RA 0 - 0.0 Micro Pulse Laser RA 1 1 0.5 * Lava Gun operates as Plasma Rifle but does 30 dmg/shot (+4D6 vs infantry, BA, ProtoMechs, and vehicles). Inflicts an extra 2D6 heat vs BattleMechs, Aerospace Fighters, DropShips, and JumpShips. ** Blake's Shield EDFG occupies 1 critical slot in each location except the Head. Operates as Blue Shield PFD, but applies damage reduction to all damage types. Can only be active for 2 turns before automatic shut down, requiring recharge of 2 turns to use again.

Note: Equipped with Full-Head Ejection System & Armored Life Support

Features the following design quirks: Accurate Weapon (Light Gauss Rifle), Battle Fists, Combat Computer, Cowl, Distracting, Improved Communications, Improved Cooling Jacket (all), Improved Life Support, Multi-Trac, Protected Actuators, Rugged (1 Point), Illegal Design (mounts custom equipment), Inaccurate Weapon (Lava Gun), Non-Standard Parts

Note that the internal files still refer to the "Lava Gun" as a "plasma rifle" (because it is largely just an oversized burst fire plasma rifle), and the Blake's Shield system as a Blue Shield system (likely because the former was developed from the latter).

[hollowsart]

I do like how Norman Osborn was chosen to be the Green Goblin by the writers who originally didn't even know who actually WAS the Green Goblin, because Norman is like.. the last person you'd ever think would be GG

however.. to me.. it doesn't exactly make much sense. his motives and reasons don't equate in my mind for any logical or reasonable reason for him to BE the Green Goblin in the first place:

Son is a loser crybaby whiner worthless heir to his corporate legacy in his eyes, an utter disappointment

Son's friend seems more like a promising young mind that he is actually interested in having take over for him or at the very least come work for him.

Son's friend is put-off by him and rejects his offers to come work for him and he feels upset by this??

??????

Kill Spider-Man? For some reason?

idk I just never understood it much. I feel like a fun and better and more logical choice would have been Harry right from the start. you could say he was fed up with his father and so he decided to steal some of his dads own technology and such, finding that "Globulin Green" enhancement drug thing as well maybe idk (most of his "insanity" would be derived not from a side effect of the drug, but from his own bottled up anger and frustrations against his dad. the drug merely exacerbates it)

Harry's taking more after school curriculums that involve more advanced levels of engineering and computing/programming and even some robotics maybe?

This is all to help him put together the whole "Green Goblin" thing, building the glider from the stolen tech as well as little pumpkin grenades/bombs and possibly more.

Then.. It ends up with Harry VS Spider-Man cuz Spidey came around to stop Harry from trying to potentially kill his dad. It's not like Norman has really done anything to deserve the saving, but there's better ways of dealing with this. Harry's way is far too extreme, far too over the edge.

but this can just lead to a really hard hitting moment when Harry learns that his best friend Peter is Spider-Man:

"You? You were the Spider-Man? and you didn't do anything to help me even though you knew? About my dad and everything I'd been having to go through?

..I thought you were my friend.

I guess you really don't know anyone as well as you'd think, not even your own childhood friends." -- Harry after Peter reveals himself to be Spider-Man.

[hirocimacruiser]

1st gen Subaru Alcyone. Sold as a Vortex in Australia but we never got these FLAT-6 versions, only flat-4 in NA and turbo with choice of FF or AWD

Hyper technology for greater driver loyalty. Intelligent Express.

Alcyone 2.7ℓ FLAT-6

ALCYONE 2700/1800

The Alcyone is a car with a new concept that anticipates the motorization of the near future. Everything about it has been developed to ensure that the driver feels no burden or stress under any driving conditions and always performs at 100% of its potential. It features a number of electronically controlled mechanisms that realize the ultimate in speed through advanced automatic control, including the next-generation 4WD, Active Torque Split 4WD, and the high-performance 2.7-liter FLAT-6. These intelligent mechanisms dramatically improve the vehicle's dynamic performance and create an unprecedented feeling of high-speed movement.

PHOTO: 4WD 2.7L VX Black Mica

Next-generation intelligent mechanisms create a new driving experience.

FLAT-6

2.7ℓ FLAT-6 Engine with EGI System

EGI Horizontally opposed 6-cylinder 2.7-liter engine

Subaru's traditional horizontally opposed engine has been made into a 6-cylinder engine, the FLAT-6, with a large displacement of 2.7 liters. The ideal rotation and vibration characteristics of the horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine create a smooth rotation feeling. The flat and powerful torque is only possible with a large displacement. And the excellent basic performance has been carefully tuned with the latest electronic control technology to achieve refined speed. The unparalleled individuality invites you to the pleasure that only the Alcyone can provide. (VX)

EGI turbocharged flat-four 1.8-liter engine

The unrivaled horizontally opposed engine is equipped with a high-performance turbo. In addition to smooth and powerful acceleration from low speeds, the response has been greatly improved by the advancement of the EGI system and tuning of the intake system. (VR, VS)

Electronically controlled active torque split 4WD

"Active Torque Split 4WD" maximizes the potential of 4WD. This drive force control system uses a computer to accurately determine the driving situation and road surface conditions, precisely controlling the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Always achieving ideal high-speed, easy driving. (VX, VR•AT)

All-range electronically controlled 4-speed automatic E-4AT

Smooth and soft shifting feeling, sharp response, and automatic control of power/economy shifting modes, highly accurate lock-up control, engine brake control, etc. are some of the latest technologies that have been incorporated into the shifting mechanism of this highly functional transmission (VX, VR-AT, VS-AT).

For more reliable operation of automatic transmission vehicles

●Key interlock

•shift lock

•reverse alarm

●AT select indicator is adopted

Electronically controlled air suspension system EP-S

Precise vehicle posture control and vehicle height adjustment. The optimal spring rate setting that makes the most of the characteristics of the air spring and the synergistic effect of the variable damper provide exquisite high-speed stability and a smooth ride.

ABS (4-wheel anti-lock braking system)

The sensor detects wheel lock in advance, which can easily occur when driving at high speeds or when braking suddenly on slippery surfaces.

The ABS detects the vehicle's position and electronically controls the brake pressure, providing excellent danger avoidance capabilities. The 4-sensor diagonal select low system provides excellent control even on roads with different friction coefficients for the left and right wheels.

Electronically controlled motor drive power steering

The latest power steering system uses an electronically controlled motor-driven pump for hydraulic control.

The system determines driving patterns based on vehicle speed and frequency of steering operation. In addition to speed-sensitive control, it also provides optimal steering feel even at a constant speed. (VX)

Cd=0.29*. High performance aerodynamic form

The first Japanese car to break the Coefficient of Air Resistance Co = 0.30 barrier

Breakthrough. Improved maneuverability at high speeds (CD=0.29) and quietness.

PHOTO: 4WD 1.8L VR Medium Gray Metallic/Fine Silver Metallic

[educationmore]

Python for Beginners: Launch Your Tech Career with Coding Skills

Are you ready to launch your tech career but don’t know where to start? Learning Python is one of the best ways to break into the world of technology—even if you have zero coding experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore how Python for beginners can be your gateway to a rewarding career in software development, data science, automation, and more.

Why Python Is the Perfect Language for Beginners

Python has become the go-to programming language for beginners and professionals alike—and for good reason:

Simple syntax: Python reads like plain English, making it easy to learn.

High demand: Industries spanning the spectrum are actively seeking Python developers to fuel their technological advancements.

Versatile applications: Python's versatility shines as it powers everything from crafting websites to driving artificial intelligence and dissecting data.

Whether you want to become a software developer, data analyst, or AI engineer, Python lays the foundation.

What Can You Do With Python?

Python is not just a beginner language—it’s a career-building tool. Here are just a few career paths where Python is essential:

Web Development: Frameworks like Django and Flask make it easy to build powerful web applications. You can even enroll in a Python Course in Kochi to gain hands-on experience with real-world web projects.

Data Science & Analytics: For professionals tackling data analysis and visualization, the Python ecosystem, featuring powerhouses like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib, sets the benchmark.

Machine Learning & AI: Spearheading advancements in artificial intelligence development, Python boasts powerful tools such as TensorFlow and scikit-learn.

Automation & Scripting: Simple yet effective Python scripts offer a pathway to amplified efficiency by automating routine workflows.

Cybersecurity & Networking: The application of Python is expanding into crucial domains such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, and the automation of network processes.

How to Get Started with Python

Starting your Python journey doesn't require a computer science degree. Success hinges on a focused commitment combined with a thoughtfully structured educational approach.

Step 1: Install Python

Download and install Python from python.org. It's free and available for all platforms.

Step 2: Choose an IDE

Use beginner-friendly tools like Thonny, PyCharm, or VS Code to write your code.

Step 3: Learn the Basics

Focus on:

Variables and data types

Conditional statements

Loops

Functions

Lists and dictionaries

If you prefer guided learning, a reputable Python Institute in Kochi can offer structured programs and mentorship to help you grasp core concepts efficiently.

Step 4: Build Projects

Learning by doing is key. Start small:

Build a calculator

Automate file organization

Create a to-do list app

As your skills grow, you can tackle more complex projects like data dashboards or web apps.

How Python Skills Can Boost Your Career

Adding Python to your resume instantly opens up new opportunities. Here's how it helps:

Higher employability: Python is one of the top 3 most in-demand programming languages.

Better salaries: Python developers earn competitive salaries across the globe.

Remote job opportunities: Many Python-related jobs are available remotely, offering flexibility.

Even if you're not aiming to be a full-time developer, Python skills can enhance careers in marketing, finance, research, and product management.

If you're serious about starting a career in tech, learning Python is the smartest first step you can take. It’s beginner-friendly, powerful, and widely used across industries.

Whether you're a student, job switcher, or just curious about programming, Python for beginners can unlock countless career opportunities. Invest time in learning today—and start building the future you want in tech.

Globally recognized as a premier educational hub, DataMites Institute delivers in-depth training programs across the pivotal fields of data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. They provide expert-led courses designed for both beginners and professionals aiming to boost their careers.

Python Modules Explained - Different Types and Functions - Python Tutorial

[jakmister]

The Versatile Power of Electric Blowers: A Must-Have Cleaning Tool

When it comes to efficient and powerful cleaning solutions, an electric blower stands out as an indispensable tool for both homeowners and professionals. Whether you need to clear leaves from your yard, dust from electronics, or debris from a workshop, an electric blower offers convenience, efficiency, and versatility. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes electric blowers special, their key features, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is an Electric Blower?

An electric blower is a motorized device that generates a powerful stream of air to clear dust, dirt, and debris from various surfaces. Unlike gas-powered models, electric blowers run on electricity, either through a corded connection or a rechargeable battery. They are commonly used for household cleaning, garden maintenance, and even industrial tasks where precision cleaning is required.

Key Advantages of an Electric Blower

Electric blowers offer several benefits that make them a popular choice among users:

Lightweight and Portable: Electric blowers are generally lighter than gas-powered alternatives, making them easier to handle for extended periods.

Eco-Friendly Operation: Since they don’t rely on gasoline, electric blowers produce zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Low Maintenance: Electric blowers require less maintenance compared to gas models, as they lack fuel tanks and complex engine systems.

Cost-Effective: With no fuel costs and fewer maintenance needs, electric blowers are economical in the long run.

Quiet Performance: Electric blowers operate with minimal noise, making them ideal for residential areas where noise restrictions apply.

Common Applications of Electric Blowers

Electric blowers are versatile tools with a wide range of applications. Some popular uses include:

Yard Maintenance: Electric blowers effectively remove leaves, grass clippings, and other debris from lawns, patios, and driveways.

Car Cleaning: Blowers are perfect for clearing dust from vents, dashboards, and other hard-to-reach spots in your vehicle.

Workshop Cleanup: Ideal for removing sawdust, wood shavings, and other residues in woodworking spaces or garages.

Electronics Cleaning: With appropriate settings, electric blowers are gentle enough to clean delicate devices like computer keyboards and circuit boards.

Air Drying: Electric blowers can also be used to quickly dry wet surfaces, such as outdoor furniture, vehicles, or patio flooring.

Choosing the Right Electric Blower

When selecting an electric blower, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best tool for your needs:

Power and Airspeed: Higher wattage and airspeed ratings provide stronger performance, ideal for larger spaces or stubborn debris.

Corded vs. Cordless: Corded models offer continuous power but may limit movement. Cordless options provide better mobility but require battery recharging.

Weight and Design: Choose a lightweight design with ergonomic handles for easier operation.

Noise Level: Opt for models with noise reduction technology if you plan to use the blower in residential areas.

Attachments and Accessories: Look for models that come with nozzle extensions, brushes, or vacuum conversion features for added versatility.

Maintenance Tips for Electric Blowers

To keep your electric blower running efficiently, follow these maintenance tips:

Regularly clean the air intake and nozzle to prevent blockages.

Check the power cord or battery terminals for wear or damage.

Store the blower in a dry place away from moisture and dust.

For cordless models, recharge the battery after each use to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

An electric blower is a powerful and versatile tool that simplifies cleaning tasks both indoors and outdoors. With their lightweight design, low maintenance, and eco-friendly operation, electric blowers are an excellent investment for homeowners, gardeners, and professionals alike. Whether you're maintaining your lawn, cleaning your workshop, or refreshing your vehicle's interior, an electric blower can provide the speed and convenience you need to get the job done efficiently.

[justforbooks]

John Burnside

Poet, winner of the TS Eliot and Forward prizes and the Whitbread poetry award, memoirist, novelist and academic

Being John Burnside was a remorseless exercise in human resilience. Even after he left behind childhood deprivation and became a professor at an ancient university, there were always demons to be banished, myths to be busted and issues urgently to be addressed for Burnside, who has died aged 69 after a short illness. Writing was his best revenge, the means by which a sense of stability could be imposed on personal turbulence.

It was his abusive, alcoholic father George who taught him how to make a living by telling stories, though the stories his father told were more often than not lies. “No one,” recalled John in A Lie About My Father (2006), the first of three celebrated memoirs, “ever did find out where my father came from. He was really a nobody: a foundling, a throwaway. The lies he told were intended to conceal this fact, and they were so successful that I didn’t know, until after he died, that he’d been left on a doorstep in West Fife in the late spring of 1926, by person or persons unknown.”

John’s debut collection of poetry, The Hoop, appeared in 1988, and few were the following years when there was no new book from him. His poetry, like his prose, often drew on the past and his own experience, such as The Woman Taken in Adultery, from A Normal Skin (1997), and Memories of a Non-existent Childhood, from Still Life with Feeding Snake (2017): “For years I was lost in the details / heart like a flower, / tending towards the light, / the fog of the cursive, / the beauties of mistranslation.”

For his 2011 collection Black Cat Bone, he won the TS Eliot prize and the Forward prize; he was one of only four poets – the others being Ted Hughes, Sean O’Brien and Jason Allen-Paisant – to win both prizes for the same book. In 2000, The Asylum Dance won the Whitbread poetry award. A Lie About My Father was chosen as the Scottish Arts Council’s nonfiction book of the year and the Saltire Society Scottish book of the year.

Last year he was awarded the David Cohen prize for literature in recognition of his entire body of work. Previous winners include VS Naipaul, Muriel Spark, Doris Lessing and Seamus Heaney.

Secrets, passed from father to son, defined John’s youth and obsessed his adulthood. He was born in Dunfermline, but was raised in a prefab in Cowdenbeath. Once a thriving mining community, nicknamed “the Chicago of Fife”, by the time of John’s birth it had lost its raison d’etre and everyone who could escape did.

For the Burnsides the hoped-for nirvana was the new town of Corby, Northamptonshire, which attracted so many unemployed Scots to its steelworks it was known as Little Scotland. By then, however, as John recalled in his memoir, his father had begun to fall apart, physically and mentally; his much-loved mother, Theresa, did her best to keep up appearances, attending mass and reading Mills & Boons by the yard.

For his part, John took to smoking dope and playing “childish pranks” for which he was expelled from school. By 16 he had progressed to LSD, which he found more rewarding than the communion host. “Acid did what the host failed to do,” he wrote. “Acid was the only real sacrament to which I had access … Here I was, the boy who had seriously thought about a vocation. Now, though the source wasn’t quite what I’d expected, I had one.”

Of an autodidactic tendency, he read deeply and widely, claiming he was “a Seneca nut into my 20s”. He attended Cambridge College of Arts and Technology (“for something to do”), thereafter becoming a computer software engineer. He began to publish poetry in the 1980s, and became a full-time writer, moving back to Fife in 1996 after a long period in Surrey.

In 1997 came The Dumb House, the first of John’s eight novels. Fantastical, disturbing, chilling, it is full of startlingly arresting sentences that provoked critics such as Karl Miller to describe the author as an “extraordinarily good writer”. Rereading it recently, I caught echoes of Proust: “For a long time, I refused to speak – or so my Mother told me.”

For John, his formative years in Cowdenbeath and Corby were the ore from which he sought to extract diamonds. In Living Nowhere (2003), for example, he returned to the Corby of the 70s, where the hope of a better future for its transplanted inhabitants and their offspring is dashed by violence that hangs over the town like the ash and stench from the steelworks.

His taste was catholic, his enthusiasms boundless and his curiosity infectious. In his third memoir, I Put a Spell on You (2014), he describes incidents from his life and muses on popular music, classical literature, old and foreign movies, Diane Arbus and Mel Lyman, the American folk musician and film-maker who provided a link between Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol.

The book’s title is taken from the much-covered song written by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, another maker of his own myths. The version John first heard as a nine-year-old was by Nina Simone and whenever he heard her or anyone else sing he was transported back to Cowdenbeath. There, as a teenage barfly, he heard a girl called Annie sing it in a cafe, not long after which she was murdered.

Burly, bespectacled, latterly bearded, John taught for many years in the English department at St Andrews University, where he became professor in creative writing in 2009. Among his colleagues were Douglas Dunn, Robert Crawford, Kathleen Jamie and Don Paterson.

As my wife and I witnessed when we paid an annual visit to the university, John was an impassioned and eloquent educator and revered by his students. Not so long ago, he sent us a copy of his 2019 book The Music of Time: Poetry in the Twentieth Century, generously inscribed and thanking us for “the criticism and the encouragement over many years”. Not many writers are so forgiving of reviewers.

In 2018, writing in the London Review of Books, John told how he was suffering from sleep apnoea, “a condition where the patient stops breathing while asleep, then starts awake and desperately gasps in some air, before settling down again, all in a matter of seconds”. Two years later, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, he suffered “huge heart failure”, as he described it, and was given a “do not resuscitate” order by doctors who feared he would not pull through. Somehow he did and continued to work at full pelt.

In Ruin, Blossom, his most recent collection of poetry, published earlier this year, John explored ageing, mortality and the parlous state of the environment. Having long since rejected organised religion, he labelled himself a “deep ecologist/anarchist”. He was particularly exercised about the building of a windfarm beside a nature reserve near his home a few miles south of St Andrews, not because it spoiled his view but because of the harm it would do to bats, birds and other wildlife.

He wrote regularly for publications including the New Statesman, the TLS, the New Yorker and the Guardian, and became a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 1998.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah (nee Dunsby), whom he married in 1996, their two children, Lucas and Gil, and their grandson, Apollo.

🔔 John Burnside, writer, born 19 March 1955; died 29 May 2024

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[realcleverscience]

AI & Data Centers vs Water + Energy

We all know that AI has issues, including energy and water consumption. But these fields are still young and lots of research is looking into making them more efficient. Remember, most technologies tend to suck when they first come out.

Deploying high-performance, energy-efficient AI

"You give up that kind of amazing general purpose use like when you're using ChatGPT-4 and you can ask it everything from 17th century Italian poetry to quantum mechanics, if you narrow your range, these smaller models can give you equivalent or better kind of capability, but at a tiny fraction of the energy consumption," says Ball."...

"I think liquid cooling is probably one of the most important low hanging fruit opportunities... So if you move a data center to a fully liquid cooled solution, this is an opportunity of around 30% of energy consumption, which is sort of a wow number.... There's more upfront costs, but actually it saves money in the long run... One of the other benefits of liquid cooling is we get out of the business of evaporating water for cooling...

The other opportunity you mentioned was density and bringing higher and higher density of computing has been the trend for decades. That is effectively what Moore's Law has been pushing us forward... [i.e. chips rate of improvement is faster than their energy need growths. This means each year chips are capable of doing more calculations with less energy. - RCS] ... So the energy savings there is substantial, not just because those chips are very, very efficient, but because the amount of networking equipment and ancillary things around those systems is a lot less because you're using those resources more efficiently with those very high dense components"

New tools are available to help reduce the energy that AI models devour

"The trade-off for capping power is increasing task time — GPUs will take about 3 percent longer to complete a task, an increase Gadepally says is "barely noticeable" considering that models are often trained over days or even months... Side benefits have arisen, too. Since putting power constraints in place, the GPUs on LLSC supercomputers have been running about 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler and at a more consistent temperature, reducing stress on the cooling system. Running the hardware cooler can potentially also increase reliability and service lifetime. They can now consider delaying the purchase of new hardware — reducing the center's "embodied carbon," or the emissions created through the manufacturing of equipment — until the efficiencies gained by using new hardware offset this aspect of the carbon footprint. They're also finding ways to cut down on cooling needs by strategically scheduling jobs to run at night and during the winter months."

AI just got 100-fold more energy efficient

Northwestern University engineers have developed a new nanoelectronic device that can perform accurate machine-learning classification tasks in the most energy-efficient manner yet. Using 100-fold less energy than current technologies...

“Today, most sensors collect data and then send it to the cloud, where the analysis occurs on energy-hungry servers before the results are finally sent back to the user,” said Northwestern’s Mark C. Hersam, the study’s senior author. “This approach is incredibly expensive, consumes significant energy and adds a time delay...

For current silicon-based technologies to categorize data from large sets like ECGs, it takes more than 100 transistors — each requiring its own energy to run. But Northwestern’s nanoelectronic device can perform the same machine-learning classification with just two devices. By reducing the number of devices, the researchers drastically reduced power consumption and developed a much smaller device that can be integrated into a standard wearable gadget."

Researchers develop state-of-the-art device to make artificial intelligence more energy efficient

""This work is the first experimental demonstration of CRAM, where the data can be processed entirely within the memory array without the need to leave the grid where a computer stores information,"...

According to the new paper's authors, a CRAM-based machine learning inference accelerator is estimated to achieve an improvement on the order of 1,000. Another example showed an energy savings of 2,500 and 1,700 times compared to traditional methods"

[jumpywhumpywriter]

Chapter 12: The Great Escape

Warnings: narrow escape from death, intense fight scene/aerial battle, family vs family

The car's engine came to life as Thomas turned the key, and he released a breath that he hadn't realized he was holding as he relaxed, relief flooding him. It was short-lived, however, as he heard a loud crash behind him. A glance at the rear view mirror confirmed that Rowan was now outside the facility, having come through one of the windows.

   Shadow was not far behind, and he only got a few steps away before she tackled him back to the ground. They wrested fiercely on the pavement, both fighting to gain the upper hand over the other, wings flapping madly, a furious tangle of black and white feathers. It was clear that Shadow was having great difficulty in delaying her brother's progression towards his target.

   Just don't think about how that target is me.

   Thomas floored the gas pedal and sped onto the street, heading back to the safety of his lab, which was equipped with a special lockdown feature that made the lab into an almost impenetrable fortress. All he had to do was make it there alive, and he could give the command to his computer to initiate those protocols.

   After that, every door would be blocked with a drop-down steel wall that was designed to withstand nearly any kind of blunt force. The same would happen for windows, which meant that nothing could get in, and nothing could get out.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Back on the pavement in front of the experimental technologies facility, Shadow fought hard to maintain her grip on her brother as he struggled to escape. "Just... give... up already!" She said between pants. Her energy was running low. She had her arms wrapped around him from behind, restricting his movements.

   Then Rowan sharply jerked his head back to smash into Shadow's face, causing her to lose her grip for a split second, which was all the time he needed to get back on his feet and take to the air to chase madly after Thomas's car, which had disappeared around a bend in the road.

   A second more and Shadow launched after him in pursuit. They were both decently good fliers, but Shadow had always had a record of being the fastest Falkry in history. Rowan had gotten a good head start, but she was quickly closing the distance between them.

   The streets below them were practically empty, aside from a few straggling cars. Their drivers were fortunately too busy to look up and see the strange spectacle taking place in the sky. Shadow spotted Thomas's car among them. He had nearly reached the lab.

   I just have to keep Rowan occupied a little longer, she thought, gritting her teeth in determination. She was now side by side with him, and almost directly above the target car, which is when she predicted that Rowan would go into a steep, vertical descent to add power to his final attack.

   Not gonna happen.

   Shadow tipped her right wing down, causing her to veer sharply to the side and collide with Rowan's left wing. He stumbled in flight and lost a few feet of altitude before finally regaining his balance.

You forgot that I always beat you in our sparring matches together. And this is why--

   Now that Rowan was flying some distance beneath her, she had a clear shot at knocking him out of the sky entirely. Shadow tucked her wings in close to her body and dove straight at his back, reaching out her arms to grab onto him. Rowan shouted in surprise as he felt the sudden weight gain, and immediately knew what was happening, but there was nothing he could do about it.   Shadow grabbed the back of his black wings and held on tight as they both plummeted in a downward descent, the ground rushing up to greet them. They were sent crashing through the many branches of a large tree, which significantly slowed the fall until they finally landed on the pavement with two identical thuds.

⏪️ Back Next ⏩️

City of Monsters and Magic Masterlist

Main Stories Masterlist

@scoundrelwithboba @lumpofsand @isikedmyself878 @iamheretohurt @fleur-a-whump

@ay5ksal @otterfrost @sausages-things @togzy

@whump-till-ya-jump @cravesunconditionallove @whumpwritinglover222

[secret-fiction]

Sonic & Tails vs the Lingering Haunt One Shot Late-Halloween Story.

On the night following Halloween, Tails takes Sonic to one of his many Auxiliary workshops. However it turns out that a new Haunted "Ware-"House has opened in the next door abandoned factory. Seeking some spooky themed fun they head inside to check it out even though it should already be closed. However inside they find signs of an out of control accident and it becomes increasingly hard to tell if it's all just part of the attraction. If it isn't, then several lives may be on the line.

Flickering yellow lights illuminated a dilapidated asphalt road ahead. Rotten utility poles creaked as they strained to hold many thick cables against a light breeze. On either side stood tall red brick buildings, warehouses and factory plants strewn with cracks. Far ahead past the flickering lights and under an old electric substation was a small shed with an uncharacteristically well sealed metal door. This whole environment offered many interesting sights of old industrial technology. So Tails wondered why it seemed Sonic didn’t agree this was a good place to take it slow.

“Yet another hidden lair, one of many scattered around the world. What sort of machinations do you undertake here?” Sonic the Hedgehog stretched his arms as he strolled onward, giving Tails a glance of his cheeky grin. 

“Only the dark matters of sleep, microwave meals, and video games,” said Tails, “...and maybe some evil reverse engineering.”

Sonic chuckled, then started humming as he resumed meandering from side to side ahead of Tails. “You really chose a spooky place to put this one huh?”

“Well, I guess if you find cool mechanical computers and assembly lines scary, it is.” A nearby light fixture exploded with a pop, making Tails jump and sending a shower of sparks and glass to the ground. “...And I guess electrical fires can be scary.”

“Pfft, bring it on!” said Sonic.

Chuckling to himself, Tails rubbed his heavy eyes and pulled out a tablet device. It’d be a good idea to disarm his security system so he wouldn’t have to run a  gauntlet to get to bed. Of course there was no doubt Sonic wouldn’t mind that. 

As he watched his tablet attempt to contact the auxiliary workshop, Tails felt a tap on his shoulder. Sonic was pointing at the front office of the largest nearby factory. It was decorated with black and orange paint and a sign that read ‘Haunted ware-House.’

“Wanna check this place out?” said Sonic, “I’ll bet I can get through without screaming once.”

“I’d make that bet if Halloween wasn’t last night,” said Tails.

“I’m sure whoever set this up won’t mind us checking it out alone real quick,” said Sonic.

“You’re probably right.” Tails glanced at his tablet still trying to make a connection, then put it away. 

The two of them pushed through the front door, it was heavy but left ajar. All sorts of custom made spooky art and decorations adorned this office, now converted into a foyer to some scary times. Many decorations were made from rusty wires and shaped into classic skeletal imagery. Most notably was one wire-skeleton slumped back in a rolling chair, its hand pointing at a dark hallway surrounded by warning tape. The creepy vibes here were actually pretty neat.

Sonic had already started wandering around investigating the wire skeletons and copying their poses. His impression of a skeleton face down, fully dead, in front of a computer terminal made Tails chuckle. But after a moment Sonic looked up at the terminal. “Oh hey this things on.”

“It is?!” Tails ran over and leaned over the wire skeleton. The crt screen in front of him was indeed on, showing a list of green text. One glance at the ports on the terminal showed it wasn’t connected to a full computer anymore. Yet the terminal still displayed a history of input commands and responses between the last user and a computer. 

There were several commands to send power to machines whose names were completely corrupted. These commands ended with a mistyped command to shut everything down, followed by a notification that connection between the terminal and the computer was cut. Even then there were three more attempts to command a shut down with no response. A chill ran up Tails’ back as he noticed that at the bottom, one more shut down command was half-typed but never entered. 

“Must be pretty immersive, huh buddy?” said Sonic

“Oh! Yeah, this is so clever!” Tails couldn’t help but smile as he quickly recounted everything he’d observed. He then paused for a moment to articulate better to Sonic. “Basically this feed makes it look like some terrible accident happened here! I can’t believe they left this here, who’d even pay attention to it?”

“Well evidently they got one fan,” said Sonic.

Tails giggled, Sonic was right. He now really wanted to meet whoever set up this ‘haunted ware-house’. Upon noticing the slightly ajar staff room door nearby he figured maybe he could. He hurried over and took a peek inside, it seemed to be a dressing room. Many hangers were covered with mundane jackets and clothes. Nearby old mirrors were set up over tables with an assortment of makeup. 

“Tails buddy, It’s probably rude to just walk into a dressing room,” said Sonic.

Tails frowned and started to object, but he focused on the mundane clothes again. Those were definitely not the costumes actors would be wearing here. Those were their casual clothes. Several bags and other garments strewn about reinforced a growing notion in Tails’ mind that didn’t make much sense. “Wait, are the actors all still here? With no guests?”

Sonic stepped past Tails and looked around for a moment. “Any way this is another part of the immersion?” 

“...Maybe? Well no, it doesn’t make sense with the theme…” said Tails, “Unless, we’re supposed to think the staff here actually fell victim to evil machines.”

“Or they actually did,” said Sonic. 

They both glanced back to the dark tunnel leading into the attraction proper. A hum of electricity echoed from within the factory. 

“Hello?” shouted Sonic, His voice echoed and faded into the background hum. “Anyone in here?! Is this part of the act?”

Tails felt his ear twitch as he thought he heard something else, a distant scrape, or even yell? It sounded as though it could be part of the humming or Sonics distorted echo. Even still his heartbeat elevated slightly. He then saw Sonic’s ear swivel. 

“Did you hear something?” said Tails.

“I’m not sure,” said Sonic.

Tails felt his tails puff up slightly at Sonic's response. “Same here…”

“Well, let’s check it out!” Sonic turned to Tails and gave him a wide smile. 

Nodding in response, Tails followed Sonic into the dark hall.  If anyone was in actual trouble Sonic could help them. They moved quickly, finding just enough dim light from the buttons and bulbs on several large old terminals along the sides of the hall. Tails kept his eyes and ears focused on everything they passed. First he noticed that this hallway was ramshackled together out of spare metal sheets and bolts.  Many disparate extension cords ran in and out of the walls to the terminals as well. Clearly a lot of work went into moving this equipment around… and maybe an electrical fire should be a real concern. 

A crunch rang out from Tails’ foot. He stopped, and lifted his shoe to see a crushed lollipop. There were a couple other pieces of candy dropped on the ground. Not a good sign. He scanned the area closely and noticed the candy forming a messy trail down the hall. Surely this could be part of the attraction. Signs that some trick or treater had been dragged away, leaving only a trail of candy was a compelling idea. But the trail didn’t lead to a spooky set, it led to a wall. 

“Sonic!” said Tails, “There’s a trail here!”

It took a second, but Sonic appeared from around a corner further down the hall. He still didn’t look worried, which was comforting. But as he opened his mouth, he let out a gasp. In an instant he glared daggers toward Tails, his quills shooting up into spikes. 

Tails’ heart skipped a beat. He managed to dive to the ground and roll away in time to avoid a large shape that hit the ground behind him. It was a badnik.

It was, until Sonic slammed into it with a spin dash. Its body shattered instantly. Most of the shrapnel and Sonic himself tore through the ramshackled wall. The resulting cacophony echoed through the factory. Somewhere in Sonic's path of destruction he must’ve hit some wires as the little light they did have disappeared with a loud pop. All of the terminals and industrial control panels went silent and dark. 

“Are you okay?!” said Sonic from within the hole in the wall.

“Am I okay?!” Tails ran over to the hole and pulled out his tablet. Its flashlight illuminated Sonic, who was completely tangled up in wires and warped metal. “Are YOU okay?!”

“Watch for more!” said Sonic.

Tails knew Sonic was right. He swiveled on his heels and aimed the flashlight to the ceiling. Up in the old rusty rafters hung several dark light fixtures, many industrial sized wires, and more notably some sort of rail. There was a mess of cord all along this sprawling rail line. That was some high end tech for a factory like this. It was also exciting. Scanning his light over more of the rafters revealed that the rails seemed to form a grid. He stopped his light at a trolley wheel fixture that had a cord hanging from it. It was snapped halfway down, looming over the spot the badnik fell.

“Oh.”

Sonic appeared by Tails’ side, accompanied by flying shrapnel. “Are there more?”

“No… Not yet.” 

Tails leaned down and picked up a piece of the badnik. It was the head of a grabber, a spider like badnik. But some of the damage on it was old. He quickly gathered more parts of the badnik to examine the damage closely. Within a minute he had most of it laid out on the ground. It didn’t take long for him to recognize the signs of previous damage, as well as patches on its body. Then he found a cord hanging from a cavity on the badnik. It had been powered by the factory’s electricity.

“Hey bud I know you like this stuff but I think we’ve seen this one before,” said Sonic.

“We have.”

“Okay then let’s get movi-”

“No, we've seen this specific one before. You probably busted it a while ago.” 

Sonic squinted, then his eyes started to widen with realization. Tails couldn’t help but smile as Sonic picked up what he was getting at.

“They made this part of the attraction?”

“Definitely,” said Tails, “It doesn’t even have its brain. It was being run from whatever this cord connects to.”

“Wait…” said Sonic, “You didn’t set all this up to scare me, did you?”

“What, no?”

“It just seems up your alley, literally and metaphorically.”

“If I was trying to scare you I wouldn’t just explain how this works yet. Besides, I’dve put it together a bit better than this.”

“Okay I believe you on the point that you’re a better engineer.”

“But, I do think this came from my stash.”

“... your what.”

“Don’t be mad.”

It didn’t take long for Sonic & Tails to run outside and to his nearby workshop. If Tails was right, then the whole haunted ware-house was being operated from his computer inside. As they reached the secure metal door on the small shack entrance he whipped out his tablet. His security system was still not responding. He growled at this, if someone shut down his security system he was supposed to get an alert about it. 

“Sonic, can you use your spare key?”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah. Have fun.”

With  a woosh Sonic dashed away. Then with a delayed boom Sonic returned and slammed into the door. He bounced backward and careened through the air as the door, and the wall around it, collapsed. Tails took note that he oughta remember where he got that security door. 

After Sonic shook off the impact he accompanied Tails inside. With the press of a button, the floor inside the shack lowered and became a rampway to a bunker below. The collapsed security door slid down the ramp and hit a tripwire. An alarm blared and a large net fell over the door, magnetic weights clamping it down. This was a surprise. His security system was online. Which was worse. 

Luckily none of the further traps and barriers along the path to the control room stopped Sonic as he sped through. This wasn’t by design, but Tails tried not to be bothered by that right now. It wasn’t long until he saw Sonic reach the door to the control room, where he should’ve been stopped by an energy barrier boxing him in. Instead nothing happened. Great. This was a good thing. Very good.

As Sonic forced open the last door Tails ran inside past him. Someone had definitely been here. Most of the space here had been reserved for storing mostly intact badniks, but only a few pieces of scrap were left on the pallets. 

“Oh shit.”

“Tails.”

Tails glared at Sonic, who was giving him a disapproving head shake. This didn’t last long as both started laughing. Things felt a little less tense. 

“Soooo, what were you doing with the badniks?”

“Nothing anymore…” Tails walked across the room to an area with several desks, a foldable mattress on the ground, and a ‘modest’ computer. “Sometimes I went back to help clean places up after we chased Eggman away. Back then I still wanted to know how his badniks worked inside and out. So I brought them here and reassembled them.”

“Without turning them on, right?”

“Duh!” Tails rolled his eyes. “I took out all of their brains. But, they could still be run by direct commands if you hooked a computer up to their empty heads.”

Sonic meandered over to Tails and patted his head. This was distracting, but nice.

“So why’d you think I’d be mad?” said Sonic.

“Because someone found them. Now people might be getting hurt.”

As Tails pressed the power button on his computer, the screen lit up instantly. It didn’t need to boot up. Cool. he also found that there was no longer a password necessary to access his operating system. Nice, very convenient. Tails knew he must’ve been glowering because Sonic nudged him and gave him a reassuring smile. 

“Well I know it’s not your fault.”

“How, my security system didn’t work at all apparently.” 

Sonic pointed to a nearby wall. Though it was dark, now that Tails paid attention he could see a large forklift shaped hole in the wall. The hole led directly into the dark basement of the next door factory. A bundle of cords laid across the floor to Tails’ computer, all plugged into a port on the back. 

“Huh.”

“Workplace accident,” said Sonic, “go figure.”

The solution here was obvious, unplug the cords. But, it’d be prudent to check what they were doing first. He dug around the task manager for a bit before finding a terminal emulator running. “Wait what?” Opening the window revealed a screen similar to that on the old terminal in the office, a list of green text. The last output from whatever computer he was connected to claimed to be running a ‘plant containment simulation.’

“So can you shut it down or do I gotta smash some stuff?” said Sonic.

“...Could you try cutting the power lines outside?”

With a woosh Sonic ran outside the workshop bunker. A second later Tails heard a distant snap. An echoing crack and winddown sound emanated from the tunnel into the factory. Then a following powerup sound echoed out accompanied by several bells and alarms. The piercing ringing made his ears twitch as he checked the terminal window again. 

‘ALERT. AUXILIARY POWER ONLINE.”

“How about you don’t,” said Tails.

With a gust of wind Sonic reappeared behind Tails. “Didn’t work huh?”

“I’ll keep trying here, you should probably-”

“Find if anyone’s in trouble, got it!” said Sonic before he ran down the dark tunnel.

“TURN ON YOUR COMMUNICATOR!” shouted Tails.

Tails’ wrist beeped, and Sonic's voice replied over the comm, “Oh yeah, gotcha!”

Typing at an admittedly incredibly fast rate, Tails attempted many generic help commands to find out more about what he was hooked up to. In short order he found it responded with a new window labeled security mainframe. It was sending a constant stream of indecipherable data. As he squinted at this, the computer automatically opened several more windows. Then in quick succession they closed. It was a very good thing he didn’t keep anything important on here. 

Distant echoes of crashes put pressure on him. Then he noticed outputs from the terminal window with each crash, ‘power redirected.’ This usually accompanied a new window opening on his computer that spat out garbage text or fuzzy visuals. “Hey Sonic, can you stop breaking the badniks for a second?”

“If they stop jumping me,” said Sonic over the comm, “can you get some lights on in here?”

“Uh, probably,” Tails entered a couple more commands, and suddenly a wave of hanging lights lit up down the tunnel and inside. “There you go.”

“...Buddy, how many badniks did you have?”

“Why?” Tails was refocused on his computer as he now managed to find a window that opened up a security camera feed. It was fuzzy but he could make out Sonic on the floor, he was staring up at the ceiling. “Uh, hang on.” Tails flipped between cameras, each with incredibly fuzzy feed, some completely black. All were looking at Sonic from different angles. “Hey, are there any cameras looking at the ceiling?”

“...There aren’t any cameras,” said Sonic. 

“Wha-oh…” Tails felt his hands shake. But not from fear. “Okay okay, I’m patched into the badniks. Let me have a look around.”

Tails started flipping through every available feed. Most were in the ceiling above Sonic and the ramshackled haunted-house path. As he found another black screen and went on to the next feed his computer let out a garbled noise. He paused, then went back to the black screen. The garbling resumed. Tails pressed his ear close to the speaker. Then he realized it wasn’t coming from his speakers, it was playing over the factory intercom.  

“Tails, what is that?” said Sonic.

“I don’t know,” said Tails. 

Suddenly a voice could be made out through the garbling. “Hey! Is someone Here? We need Help!!” 

As the voice spoke a garbled ringing escalated through the intercoms, eventually drowning everything else out. The piercing noise made Tails fold his ears down. Since Sonic’s inside it must be worse for him. Then with a loud pop, the intercom, and evidently the lights, went out. A fuse must’ve blown.

“Tails! Where are they? Tails!?” said Sonic over the comm.

“I don’t know!” said Tails. 

Down the tunnel Tails heard the echoes of combat resume. Flipping through the feed on his computer revealed the badniks chasing Sonic as he ran through the floor. Motobugs rolled after him as buzz-bombers swung down at him from the ceiling. 

“Shit, sorry Tails!” said Sonic, as one by one the visual feeds cut out. 

As before, the workshop computer went haywire. Windows opened all over making it impossible to use. Still he managed to reach the terminal window again and attempted several shutdown commands. Each was met with ‘unknown command.’ A growl rose from his throat. He wasn’t able to help at all from here. Screw it then. He reached around the back and pulled the cords out of the port on his computer.

The computer crashed of course. But in the factory all of the old machinery began turning on. With the sound of engines, the song of the factory drowned out everything else. This was bad, it was dark and now Sonic couldn’t hear. Why did the power redirect like that anyway? What was turning everything on? Tails almost dropped the bundle of cords in his hand, then looked at them closely. Oh, duh!

“Sonic! I’m gonna find the main computer, hold on!” shouted Tails into his communicator.

Sonic's response was completely muffled by the running machinery. Right, too loud. 

Plugging his ears with the closest rags he could find, Tails ran through the tunnel and into the factory. He kept his light on the bundle of cords as he followed it along the wall. This path took him behind the set of the haunted ware-house and up a pole to the ceiling. With his spinning tails he flew up into the rafters. There were many more cables here wrapped along the ceiling like old corroded roots. But with the light of his tablet, Tails could discern the bundle of newer cords from the rest. 

Ducking and weaving past cables and rails, Tails heard the occasional crash of Sonic breaking something below him. He glanced down at the dark for a second, seeing only bits of action from flying sparks. Suddenly his body hit a net of cables. He yelped and flailed, nearly dropping his tablet as his tails tangled up in the cables. 

“Ow ow ow!” said Tails as he scrambled to grab the cables above him. Soon he got a grip of one and shined the light on his tails. The knot wasn’t that bad. What was bad was the eyes of a buzz bomber on the other side of the mass of cables. 

“...Please don’t.”

The Buzz-Bomber came to life and fluttered only one in-tact wing. As it charged into the cables, Tails gasped and dropped his tablet. Several cables snapped, allowing the Buzz-Bomber to slam its body into him. They both fell down toward a spinning machine of many spikes and gears. But before they met that fate the cord on the Buzz-Bomber came taut and sent them both swinging back up into the Rafters. Tails kept a tight grip on its thorax as it carried him back up and onto a rusty beam. 

Now on stable footing, Tails kept hold of the Buzz-Bomber while reaching for the cable hooked into its head. It glared at him while trying to fly with its single wing. Tails gave it a smile back. “Thanks, and sorry.” With a hard yank he pulled out the cable and the badnik went limp. 

Now back to that dang bundle of cords. Glancing around, another flash from below showed Tails a large utility tunnel into the ceiling in front of him. Most of the cables and cords, old and new, ran up it. 

“HEY! Up here!” shouted Tails. 

Despite the deafening machinery and Tails’ earplugs, Sonic shouted back, “‘Kay! One sec!”

With a running leap Sonic landed onto the beam next to Tails. An odor of burnt rubber accompanied him. His quills were clearly covered in oil and fine metal dust. That had to be uncomfortable, and yet Sonic just casually stretched like normal. 

The two of them looked up the utility tunnel and saw more darkness. Spooky. Undeterred, Tails took Sonic's hands and flew him up the tunnel, being mindful of anything in his path. 

At the top, they were met with a large open room. In the middle was some sort of dark mass. From within the mass came a series of fuzzy speaker sounds. It’d be really nice to have a light here. As Tails waited and tried to discern what they were looking at, Sonic walked closer. Suddenly a series of red lights lit up the chamber, making Tails jump. Seeing Sonic stiffen up made him feel less embarrassed. But the mass of cables hanging from an Eggman capsule in the ceiling made Tails feel less relaxed. 

Inside the capsule was a small group of mobians. Most of them seemed to be unconscious, but one jackal looked down at them. “H-hey! Watch out!” she said, muffled through some kind of speaker.

“Hang on!” said Sonic. He immediately dashed a lap around the room and jumped up to the tangled up capsule. Then as soon as he touched the wires he seized up. With a flashing arc of electricity Sonic was sent flying off of the capsule. 

Heart jumping in his throat, Tails flew after Sonic and caught him just feet from the ground. He could feel Sonic grip his hand, which was a relief. It shouldn’t have been, Sonic is tough. 

“I’m good. But how do we get them out?” said Sonic.

“Uh…” Tails looked over the wires, they seemed to lower down from the capsule on the ceiling and form a curtain shrouding the middle of the chamber. He took a step toward it. The wires shook and parted, but nothing clearly came out from underneath. Yet cables on the ground shifted around. Each one getting nudged was closer to Tails and Sonic.

 “Sonic.”

“I see it.” 

Tails stepped aside and watched Sonic spindash in that direction. With a loud bong he bounced back. For the moment of impact a much larger than usual chameleon shaped badnik was visible. It was a Newtron, but with bounce pads on its head and back. It continued crawling toward Tails as it returned to invisibility. They could handle this. 

Sonic spun around and hit the Newtron a few more times from each side. Eventually he landed in its path and waited. After a few more steps, the Newtron reappeared with its mouth open toward Sonic who immediately rolled at it. But instead of firing a projectile, a vacuum in the Newtrons mouth sucked Sonic right up. Its tail extended to the curtain of wires and cables, where Sonic was shot into a vacuum tube of some kind and pulled up to the capsule.

Tails’ mouth was wide open as he watched Sonic get dropped into the pile of people inside the wrapped up capsule. 

“Tails,” said Sonic through the muffling of the speaker, “Coulda warned me that Badnik could do that.”

“I didn’t build that one!” said Tails. 

“Okay! But you can handle this!”

Tails made eye contact with the large modified Newtron before it turned invisible again. His heart started pounding more, but he didn’t need to panic. This thing wasn’t that fast. He watched for any cables hooked into its invisible body as he got some distance away. Then he saw it. One black cable rising into the air, the end of it fading into invisibility. He let out a slow breath, then dashed toward it. Using the momentum he flew up into the air right at the cable. But as he almost reached it, he hit the bumper on the Newtrons head.

Tails yelled as he careening up toward the tangled up capsule. Heart pounding, he swung around and used his spinning tails as a brake. His shoes stopped inches short of the exposed high-voltage wires. Looking up he made eye contact with Sonic, and gave him a shaky thumbs up.

“Watch out!!!” 

Tails looked down and saw the Newtron visible again, its jaws open. A powerful vacuum of wind into its mouth started to pull Tails down. He clenched his teeth and spun his tails as hard as he could. But the wind continued dragging him down. There had to be a way out! He was smarter than this. Yet he wasn’t able to fly himself away and the vacuum showed no signs of losing power. 

A series of loud bangs above Tails got his attention. It was Sonic, kicking the side of the capsule repeatedly. It felt awful to make Sonic worry like that. But as they made eye contact Sonic gave him a wink. With one last kick one of the wires fell loose, its torn end casting sparks around. That could work! Tails let the wire fall past him, then stopped spinning his Tails. 

Sparks flew as the Newtron choked on the hot wire. The vacuum in its throat stopped, and Tails landed right on its snout. It made eye contact with him, so he gave it a wink. He then jumped off of its snout and dived toward the cable in its head. The Newtron turned its body invisible again, but Tails managed to reach the cable. He gripped it as hard as he could and tried to fly up, but it was plugged in tight. Growling as he strained, Tails felt the Newtron trying to shake him loose. If it hit him with those bounce pads he’d be back at square one.

That was an idea though. Tightening his grip, Tails bit into the cable. Then he let himself drop. As soon as his feet hit the bounce pad the force shot him away, putting strain on his arms and jaw. Strain the cable couldn’t take. Hearing a snap, he opened his eyes to see himself swinging away from the now powerless Newtron. He’d done it. 

Tails couldn’t help but shout a muffled cheer through the cable in his teeth. This was interrupted by an impact into the ceiling, and a subsequent flop down to the ground. Taking only a moment to catch his breath, Tails cheered and laughed some more. Soon he saw Sonic standing over him with a relieved look on his face. Tails started to stand, but Sonic lifted him up under his arms.

“You good pal?” said Sonic.

“Yep!” Tails wagged his tails despite the soreness in his body, “just jostled.”

“Good! Let's get everyone out of here then!” 

While the others in the capsule were drowsy and thirsty, no one was badly hurt. The costumes most of them wore implied they must’ve been here since Halloween the previous night. One problem emerged as they got ready to lead everyone out though, the factory floor below was still running with dangerous machines everywhere. 

“Hey, do any of you know where the computer running all of this is?” said Tails.

“...Uh, yeah.” A dark green jackal lady with grease matted fur walked forward while rubbing the back of her head. She wore overalls that were pierced with metal shrapnel and blood stains. 

“Are you okay?!” said Tails.

“What? Oh yeah, it's a costume.” 

She led Tails to a wall next to an elevator on the other side of this upper chamber. A panel moved aside easily, revealing a massive computer room. Tails felt his jaw drop in awe, it was beautiful. Rows of ancient electrical computers the size of sheds buzzed and clicked. At the far back wall was one large control panel with a button for every function. As Tails approached and saw several new components plugged into this panel he realized what the problem was.

“You… you supplemented the processing power of the factory with computer chips from badniks?!”

“Yeah, I thought they’d be cool with it,” said the Jackal.

“That’s actually super cool!” Tails looked over at Sonic, “But reckless! So reckless. Irresponsible.”

“Also maybe don’t steal stuff,” said Sonic.

“Everything here’s abandoned,” said the Jackal, “also you look kinda like Sonic the Hedgehog.”

“Dude my computer was obviously way newer than all this,” said Tails. “Did you really think my workshop was part of this factory?”

“I mean it was full of old broken stuff,” said the Jackal.

Tails shook his head and crawled into the control panel computer. It wasn’t hard to find the power supply and unplug it. With that, the entire factory shut down with a whine. He looked at the badnik computers for a moment then left them plugged in as he crawled back out. 

“Okay, these Badniks should stop trying to kill us with assembly lines now,” said Tails.

“Oh before you guys go, did our Haunted Ware-House scare you at all?” said the Jackal.

“At most it was startling sometimes,” said Sonic, “but I’m used to danger, so I’m not a good metric for that.”

“I did like the aesthetic!” said Tails. 

With the danger passed, Sonic and Tails lead the staff and kids out of the factory. In that time Tails grilled the staff more about how they’d set all this up. Apparently the Newtron sucking people into a capsule was supposed to be the main attraction. But then it didn’t release anything it had sucked up afterwards like it was supposed to. Even still this ‘Haunted Ware-House’ seemed pretty neat, maybe they could run a safer version next year.

But not at this sight, as within minutes of everyone escaping out the front, the old factory became engulfed with flames. A strong scent of burnt rubber as it started told Tails exactly why. “Electrical fires spread scary fast. Neat.” 

“I guess the true haunting was the safety violations we made along the way,” said the Jackal.

“This is one awesome fire though,” said Sonic. “But yeah, you all could’ve died if we hadn’t showed up.”

[turtlemagnum]

there's this online recreation of the sans fight that i played religiously back in middle school before i even owned a device capable of running undertale, still up. i got good enough at it that under normal circumstances, i can usually do it first try. a bit of a banging my head against a brick wall thing, but damn did it eventually break. honestly i think doing that before ever actually playing undertale was a bit like goku training in 100x gravity, except instead of landing on namek to fight frieza he went and fought raditz again and just absolutely wrecked his shit. at least, until i got to undyne, still not great at her. god i love her. adhd, getting distracted, i had a goddamn point i was trying to make. so, notice that i said "under normal circumstances" as a caveat. what i would consider not normal circumstances would be, say, playing with fucked up arrow keys. such as, the ones that seem to be on every goddamn modern laptop where up and down are both collectively taking up the same amount of real estate as a single normal key, because apparently right shift needs that extra fucking space. like seriously who the fuck even uses right shift, top 10 useless keys right there, right next to caps lock and most of the function keys. guess i've just gotta suck it up until i can afford to get an actual gamer laptop and not a budget office clunker that i got for the admittedly nice CPU

honestly like, i think my ideal laptop would be halfway between the Ultra Gucci Gamer shit and what i have now. give me like, 16 gigs of RAM, a decent CPU for emulation, a low end but modern and power efficient discrete GPU, and a big fuckin SSD. no RGB shit, just a power waste, though i do like having backlit keys at times i think the more efficient way to go about it would just paint em with something glow in the dark. is glowstick fluid toxic to get your hands on? i remember hearing about a guy who died because he injected that shit at a rave, but i don't know how much of that is This Shit Is Poison vs Dont Put Things That Arent Blood In Your Blood Sacks You Moron, y'know. for some reason radium popped into my head, but after thinking about it for more than an instant i'm like 85% sure that shit's what done killed marie curie, and now i can't help but imagine that's something elon musk would tell his engineers to do. "yeah. just a, uh, gamer key-board. with, radium paint on the lettering. saves power, good for the planet." what was i saying

anyways yeah like. the only other specs i can think of would be just having as many ports as possible, 1080p screen @ 60hz, y'know the bare minimum in Current Year. i will say that my current laptop has given me problems with screens i've never had on a computer before, there have been times where i see something i know for a fact is a different, more saturated color on other screens and having it be barely different from the background. also? i want that motherfucker bulky god dammit, i'm tired of everything being thin and light and having absolute dogshit battery life. i miss when i could charge my gameboy once a week and have it entertain me the entire goddamn time, y'know. i'm lucky if i get half a day of consistent use out of a laptop or my switch without charging it, y'know. to be honest, you should be able to murder someone with your technology. i could kill a man with a gamecube or the PC my dad left me as a kid, if i tried to bash a man's skull open with my laptop the laptop would take more damage than the skull. like don't get me wrong, it'd fucking hurt, but i'm not sure there's any singular component in this thing less than 95% cheap polymer by volume. a goddamn disgrace, lemme tells ya. back in ancient rome we had the technology to build bridges strong enough to still be used today, there are guns from the world wars that you can shoot to this day, you're tellin me you can't make a laptop sturdier than a saltine cracker? well, i'm pretty sure they're mostly designed by crackers, so i guess i can't blame em too hard for their inadequacies. such is lief i suppose (sic)

[telekinetiq]

PUBLIC VS PRIVATE KNOWLEDGE

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE

general public awareness.

Mewtwo's existence is extremely vague and unsubstantiated in the public domain, based almost entirely on rumors and gossip (most popular in / centralized to the KanJoh region and parts of Hoenn).

mostly considered a hoax or government conspiracy by the general populace, or a sort of Aesop's fable to warn against human hubris. essentially comparable to aliens / UFOs.

there are numerous reported sightings of an unknown, strange humanoid creature spotted on city rooftops and in the shadows, and various unexplained psychic phenomena occurring over the KanJoh region over the last twenty or so years.

a suspiciously high percentage of people who have tried to investigate the source and validity of this mystery have experienced a sudden onset of amnesia and forced to retire their search.

something awful happened on Cinnabar Island.

something weird lives or lived in the Cerulean Cave.

Team Rocket had something to do with both.

Team Rocket hideouts occasionally get "mysteriously" destroyed and their plans routed before Interpol, local police or aspiring protags get to the scene. lives are spared but many of those arrested are quickly assessed as having experienced some kind of mental / emotional trauma that significantly disturbed them.

SEMI-PRIVATE KNOWLEDGE

exclusive to associated / informed parties or those with access.

the details of Project Mewtwo and the connection between Mewtwo and Team Rocket.

Amber and her relationship with Mewtwo.

Mewtwo's status as the strongest Pokémon and as an intended bioweapon to aid in world domination with the goal of being able to defeat literal gods.

could be considered to have an artificially engineered genetic "disease" that compels him towards violence and aggression.

probably the most intelligent lifeform on Earth, with brainpower exceeding the computational power of supercomputers. conversely, fairly ignorant when it comes to "common sense", culture and things learned through experience.

he travels semi-regularly in search of Pokémon that need his help as well as humans that need the opposite of help.

Mewtwo's ability to cloak himself in the illusion of a human form and his activities under such a disguise, including exploration of human civilization and evading Team Rocket.

the actions of Mewtwo during his tenure with Giovanni, including battling in Viridian Gym and the absolute lack of any Earth Badge winners during this period, and the assisted capture of other Pokémon along with other activities.

PRIVATE INFORMATION

exclusive to Mewtwo & very select individuals.

the events of Mewtwo Strikes Back (memory wiped of everyone besides Giovanni).

Mewtwo's "home" is Mount Quena in Purity Canyon, the highest mountain in Johto and the counterpart to Mount Silver. his clones live there with him.

he's chosen "Stein" as a personal 'name' to identify him specifically.

he has human DNA, specifically Giovanni's (Mewtwo does not even know this). this is why most technology and products intended for use by or on Pokémon do not work on or recognize Mewtwo, including all publicly-accessible Pokéballs and Pokédexes.

essentially immortal; his cells inherited Mew's genetic code and do not suffer the 'aging' problem (that cells replicate and eventually errors occur which also get replicated and lead to gradual cellular degeneration). as long as even the tiniest piece of his genetic material remains intact, Mewtwo will eventually regenerate and become whole again.

Mewtwo is sexless, not genderless. he identifies as male. he is also demi-ace and demiromantic, sex neutral.

is the source of R and the Berserk Gene, as well as the first (unintentional) Shadow Pokémon, as well as the only 'natural' one (i.e. other Pokemon have to be artificially 'shadow-ified' and Mewtwo does not).

Mewtwo's creation and initial assistance of Giovanni significantly contributed towards Rocket's success and growth.

he can megaevolve (but hasn't yet learned of this ability) and neither the X or Y forms represent his appearance or strengths.