#Teching metal engine kit

[onemanandhismustang-com-blog]

A Tradition Continues

After Christmas or a birthday I like to build something to keep me occupied which has become a bit of tradition. This year was no different, this time I was lucky enough to have an expensive engine model kit to play with. This ‘Techning V8 Engine Kit (DM118)’ kit was something I had been looking at for quite a while, but just couldn’t bring myself to pay the considerable amount of £500 for a…

[metal-breakers-au-askblog]

Hello Mr Miles Prower also known as Tails. How exactly you added that robotic arm to your body and how exactly you made it work?

“I ripped it off one of the Metal Spawn and popped it into the socket where my old robotic arm used to be.” He explained, giving a small shrug.

“Miles... It’s… I know it isn’t as simple as that. They’re just curious. Why don’t you give them the full story?” Kit suggested.

Tails rolled his eyes, but his expression wasn’t exactly irritated, more like he wasn’t all that interested in rehashing the details. “Ugh, fine,” he muttered. “It took more effort than just popping it into the socket. I had to adjust a few parts to make it longer since most Metal Spawn are shorter than me, and their limbs are, too.”

He paused for a moment, his eyes flicking to his robotic arm, his twin tails swaying back and forth as if he was retracing the process in his mind. “I also had to make sure it could connect to my cybernetics and integrate with my internal systems. That part wasn’t hard though. Just took a little tweaking to make it work smoothly with my body.”

Kit wasn’t satisfied with just the technical rundown. “And would you mind explaining why you did this, Miles?”

Tails hesitated, a brief moment of silence hanging in the air as he seemed to think about his answer. “Well… I thought it was a good opportunity to gather some insight on Metal Empire tech. I mean, it helped me figure out how to reverse engineer this special chaos energy infused alloy the Metal Emperor invented. That was a big help to my research.” He sounded convincing, but there was an underlying hesitation in his tone, like he was leaving something out.

Kit raised an eyebrow, sensing the gap in his story. “And?”

Tails shifted uncomfortably, realizing he wasn’t going to get away with the half-truth. He sighed and looked away for a second. “And... I thought it was cool,” he admitted, a small grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. “I mean, it’s not every day you get to wear your enemy’s arm. It’s kind of badass, don’t you think?”

“Yes, hehehe, it is Miles~” Kit chuckled.

[the-names-nine]

Sonic Bad Guys AU Infodumping

@thefakehedgehogaroundhere pitched the AU and its roles, I went too far and fleshed it out a LOT.

Here's the first round, the basics of the characters:

The Bad Guys go by “Ms. Surge,” Ms. Metal, Mr. Rough, Mr. Tumble, Mr. Duo and Mr. Kitsunami (for fun.)

Backstory: While the AU is mostly just the self-contained plot of the movie, Eggman and Starline did exist in the AU… emphasis on DID. In a very very deliberately loose interpretation of Sonic canon setting up this AU, they created Surge, Kit and Metal, but were ultimately defeated for good, with their former creations and minions being left to form various random organizations including the Bad Guys, none of whom are nearly as much of a threat anymore. Sonic took all the credit for “beating” Eggman, though it probably wasn’t actually him in this AU considering this version of him is also a villain and has just been using his hero image for personal gain (hell, considering his Marmalade-assigned wealth, he probably bought out Eggman Industries after the Doctor was gone.)

Ms. Surge, instead of the “big bad wolf,” boasts about being an “evil twin.” A twisted and evil counterpart to a hero. Of course, she turns out to actually be the good one between herself and Sonic in this AU, but that’s beside the point. She still doesn’t remember her original life and has only experienced being compared to Sonic and seen as a monstrous, evil version of him, never being given any other chance. When Sonic gets exposed as the criminal he is and arrested, Surge, Kit and Metal recognize they’re fully free and able to go good, what with him being put away for good.

Ms. Metal was also originally designed after Sonic (that’s why she and Surge are best friends,) but being “the safe-cracker,” has modified herself with some help from Kit into a heist-focused robot with stealth tech, safe-cracking tools, and the ability to turn into a hyper-boost engine for the getaway car. She’s the “most evil” because she’s still programmed to defeat Sonic, even if she’s currently spending almost all of her time pulling heists with the Bad Guys. She comes around in the end and rejoins Surge and the gang, and stays with her as a good guy after finally taking down Sonic. She’s also kind of addicted to absorbing Wisps.

Mr. Mimic actually goes by Mr. Duo most of the time - he’s made the happy-go-lucky but still evil cat his public identity they think of when they hear the term “Bad Guys.” After genuinely befriending the others, he wants to move on from and forget the even worse crimes he committed as an octopus (even though not necessarily those of his canon self.) That being said, he’s still a shapeshifter and “the distraction.” Instead of Mr. Shark swallowing Mr. Snake when he annoys him, Duo can mess with Metal’s circuits since he’s “good with computers.”

Mr. Rough and Mr. Tumble are the flattest ones, but then again, they always are. They beat the shit out of people, make immature jokes, and Rough uncontrollably sprays when he’s nervous. Mr. Piranha is perfect for both of them (and also for Surge - she’d release catastrophic EMPs - if she wasn’t Mr. Wolf here.)

Mr. Kit is “Drippy” the same way Ms. Tarantula is “Webs.” His laptop has extra monitors and keyboards for his Hydro-Coils the same way as Webs’ does for her eight legs. He’s also still Surge’s younger brother for the feels. Owing to being around 13, he's less anxious and less formal, and with the world aware of his power, more confident in being scary on his own or at his sister's side.

Governor Rose’s backstory as the Crimson Paw Rascal is changed a bit. She, too, gave up just as she was about to steal the Awardy Award (the Golden Dolphin equivalent,) but it was because she realized she’d built her criminal career upon being a “sweet widdle hoggo” who nobody would suspect or believe could be a criminal mastermind, instead blaming more scary or ugly animals. Realizing that not only would some undeserving creature take the fall for the Rascal’s ultimate heist, but she fully knew and wanted to exploit this, just made Amy feel like shit, and she immediately hung up her cowl. Note that this same reason also leads to her despising Sonic for working under the same ideals, and makes her very happy when he’s the one who takes the fall for her crimes in the end.

“A wolf and a fox are not so different” becomes “A tenrec is just a false hedgehog.” Sonic later reuses this line to mock Surge, before Surge and Amy finally wreck him with it in the end.

Sonic as Marmalade? Take every bad take on IDW Sonic in the entire hatedom, make them completely true, and then sprinkle the resulting abomination of a Sonic with Scourge dust. He’s supposedly the same hero as his canon self, but in truth all he cares about is his own entertainment and his own reputation. Lying and manipulating people are what give him “the tingle.” He’s gonna scream “LET’S DO IT TO IT! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA!” like in that one satire comic as he’s dragged off to S.U.C.M., utterly determined to the end to convince everyone he’s never done anything wrong in his life. Fuck him. He deserves nothing, he is the scum of the earth, I want to punch him in the face, and maybe call in a few other AU Sonics to punch him in the face too.

Heck, I have an OC named Shine who is basically “Sonic but Marmalade” already, and I’d be willing to donate her for this role if I didn’t want Sonic himself to get to chew some scenery.

We’ve agreed Whisper is Chief Luggins due to her power to be incredibly biased against these people, especially Surge with a good helping of Mimic on the side. Lanolin would work too, but I think Whisper being really angry a lot fits better. You poor wolf, you poor meow meow, you poor thing, how did you end up becoming a cop?... or she's just the face of what's left of the Restoration in this universe. Lanolin can probably be Tiffany the reporter, IDK.

To be continued.

[silverwings22]

Song of the Sea: Chapter 14: Singing Slug

Chapter Warnings: major injury, brief description of medical procedure, kidnapping, profanity, flashbacks to derogatory sexual language Series warning: explicit smut, alien anatomy (it's a monsterfucker fic, guys), major character injury, grief, canon typical violence, autistic meltdowns, and my terrible attempts at Mando'a.

Previous Chapter:

Next chapter:

"Shiani? Shiani?!"

Tech's voice was sharp as the siren opened her eyes, every inch of her already bruised body screaming in protest. She was laying face down on a pile of scrap metal, blinking and dazed. She didn't remember the landing or blacking out, only the terrifying fall through the darkness and her limbs being wrenched from around Tech in the shuffle. "T-tech?"

The metal beside her shifted and Tech was clambering on top of the pile to get to her in an instant. "Cyar'ika, are you alright?"

"I’m okay…" She wobbled when she sat up and he crouched beside her. "Where is everyone?"

"Omega and Hunter fell on the starboard side nearest the Marauder. They've checked in over comm." He smoothed a hand over her head gently. "Echo, Wrecker, and I were saved from serious injury by our armor."

Shiani didn't wear armor. When he didn't see her immediately after coming to, his first thought was a vision of her laying somewhere impaled on rebar or broken scrap. He'd been terrified. When they got out of here, he was building her some goddamn protection. 

Shiani nodded, rubbing her head. "We hurry then… got to get out of here before Crosshair finds us." 

He nodded. "You are right. He will be furious… he was injured in the engine blast."

Despite the fact he'd tried to kill them, Shiani clucked her tongue sympathetically. "Not himself. I’ll say sorry when he is."

"That is kind of you." Tech was feeling less than charitable about the sniper at the moment, and helped her to her feet instead of voicing his opinion. They hurried back to Wrecker and Echo, who both looked relieved to see the siren in one piece. Together, they moved around the husk of the Venator towards their own ship. Imperial troops were moving in, trying to set up a perimeter but being relatively quiet about it. Tech still had access to their comm channels and guided them through, almost home free when the crack of a shot rang out. 

Shiani frowned, ear fins wiggling. "That didn’t sound right. Not a blaster."

Tech stiffened. "Then the only alternative is a slugthrower."

"Hunter's in trouble." Echo grabbed his own blaster and took off running. 

The others followed suit, getting to the Marauder just as the Empire did. Hunter was laid on his back, not moving, and Shiani could taste the blood in the air before she saw the puddle of red growing under him. She skidded to the downed sergeant as the clones started firing at the Imperial troopers to cover her. "Hunter? Hunter?!"

He groaned weakly. "O-omega… he took her…"

"Shh." She slid her arms under his and started dragging him back towards their ship. "We’ll get her back. Don’t fall sleep." Her eyes darted up as she cleared the ramp and moved him to the medbay. "He’s been shot in the chest!"

"Shit." Echo hissed as Tech slid into the pilot's seat and they got off the ground. "I'll get the med kit-"

"No bacta." Shiani fumbled with the fasteners of the sergeant's armor. "Not yet. Go help Tech. Imperial fighters will come after us, and you’re the corporal. I’ve got Hunter." 

Echo nodded, hurrying to assume command when she gave him a hard glance. "Wrecker, tailgun!"

Hunter looked bleary-eyed at Shiani as she dumped his helmet and chest plate on the floor. She pinned his arms and legs with her tentacles and leaned over, cupping her hands around her mouth and holding them over the bleeding wound in his chest. "Wh-what are you-"

"Singing." She muttered, then dropped her voice and hit a note he felt in his bones, blood, and between his eyes. His head dropped back on the table, chest screaming protests before a metallic tink echoed in the tiny med bay. 

“What the fuck….?” He wheezed. 

Shiani slipped an arm under his shoulders and sat him up. “Sorry, I gotta see you naked but it's for medical. Here, hold my tentacle. Squeeze if it hurts.” 

Hunter just blinked at her as she pulled his blacks top off and finally grabbed the bacta, spraying him down and letting him squeeze as tightly as he wanted at the sting. Once he was doused, she wound gauze around him carefully and put him down gently on his back, shifting her approach from bossy to comforting for him. “You’re okay now. Just need to rest.”

“We have to find Omega…” He muttered faintly. “She’s just a kid… who knows who that bounty hunter is working for? Or what they want…” 

“I promise, we’ll get Baby Mega back.” The siren breathed, watching the tattooed man resist rest like it was a person who’d deeply offended his entire bloodline. She leaned in and hummed a low not that made drop off into unconsciousness despite how hard he was fighting. She cleaned the blood off him and lay a blanket over his shirtless form, before plucking something from the table by his side. 

The ship was spinning as Tech evaded a fighter shooting at them, and Shiani had to hold Hunter to the gurney to keep him from getting dumped off. “We have to make the jump.” Echo ordered. 

“We have to find Omega!” Wrecker yelled back from the tailgun.

“We’re no good to her if Crosshair shoots us down! Make the jump, Tech!” Echo’s voice didn’t brook any arguments, and despite all their feelings it was the logical choice to make.

The Havoc Marauder lurched violently as they cleared the atmosphere and leapt into the eeriness of hyperspace, the silence only broken by the sound of everyone’s heavy breaths. Wrecker leaned over the tailgun controls, Echo putting his hand on the console of the bridge to steady himself. “S-sound off.” 

“I’m okay.” Wrecker mumbled. 

“I am unharmed.” Tech leaned a head around the cockpit door.

Shiani looked at her own balled up right fist. “I’m okay… Hunter will be okay. Baby Mega’s missing.” She extended her hand out to Echo as he walked over. When he extended his hand, she opened hers. A piece of deformed, mushroom-shaped metal the size of his pinky nail dropped into his palm, and the durasteel was still damp with red blood. 

“What is that?” He blinked.

“Slug. From a slugthrower.” Shiani looked at it, sitting still and harmless in Echo's gloved palm. "I took it out of Hunter chest, before bacta. That's why I said wait, so we didn’t close the slug inside the wound."

Tech set the autopilot and walked over to her as she picked Hunter's helmet off the floor. “Shiani…”

She pushed the helmet into his hands before he could embrace her. "You can… review bucket-cam? See who took Baby Mega. We can catch him and get her back."

He nodded. "Excellent idea."

She nodded. "I’ll check on Hunter again. He’ll wake up soon… stubborn brother." She vanished back into the medbay as quickly as she'd come. 

"She's in shock." Echo said softly when Tech looked stricken by her sudden departure. 

"Yes… you are right." He was more speaking to himself than Echo, comforting himself at the sting of her rejection.

Echo was right. She was just in shock, this was a terrifying ordeal for a civilian. She'd be herself again eventually. Shiani loved him, he knew and accepted that… so why did he hear Crosshair’s voice mocking him again? 

"What, you haven't fucked her yet? Afraid she'll swim off cause you turned out to be more of a freak than she is, or did you chicken out when you went to stick your dick in that goddamn mouth?”

No. No, he was not losing Shiani over that. Crosshair was wrong, just like he was wrong about the Empire, and Tech's only mistake had been talking to him one night when they'd both been a little too drunk to think the conversation through. 

"I will go review the footage. We will see if Cid's contacts can help us locate whoever took Omega." He said softly. "I am not sure I believe in a divine, but if it exists… that bounty hunter is going to need it."

"Cid's contacts did manage to identify the bounty hunter. His name is Cad Bane." Echo poked Hunter into a seat before the stressed sergeant could reopen his wound by pacing around. "Nothing on who hired him, though."

"This is the second bounty hunter after her." Shiani was sitting, tightly coiled in the chair the girl usually occupied. "Why would somebody want a little girl? If we figure that out, we can figure out who hired Cad."

Tech held up his scanner. "I… may have a theory. I analyzed Omega's genetic signature when calibrating the chip scanner… she has pure, unaltered first-generation DNA."

"An unaltered clone… how many clones like that are there?" Hunter frowned. 

"Planning to adopt more babies, Hunter?" Shiani frowned. The sergeant looked away sheepishly, indicating the thought had crossed his mind. 

"Just one other. Alpha, later renamed Boba Fett."

"Prime's son." Echo frowned thoughtfully. "No one's seen him since he busted out of prison."

"Precisely. But he, or Omega, would be invaluable in restarting the Kaminoans cloning operation. For the Empire, instead of the Republic."

Shiani hissed softly, bursting into blue rings and covering her mouth with mouth hands. "Then that's the answer. Long-necks." It made her sick, but the anger soothed over her otherwise crippling fear. The long-necks took Omega, to hurt her like they'd hurt the sirens. She couldn't let that happen. "Can you track her comm?"

"I can try, but it will be complex if the device is disabled." Tech nodded

"You’re the smartest man in the galaxy. We’ll find her." The siren met his eyes. "I know you can do it."

Echo nodded. "I'll start trying to boost our long range scanners and see what we pick up. Hunter… stay put for the love of Manda. Wrecker, you're Hunter-sitting." The corporal headed to the bridge to work.

Wrecker sat beside Hunter as Shiani bowed her head, watching the siren think for a while. She looked so serious and upset, light-years away from the cheerful and bright eyed Shiani he knew. "You okay?"

"I need to be helping. I don’t know how." She muttered against her knees. 

"You already did a lot. You saved Hunter's life." He pointed out. "None of us would have thought about the slug. We're used to blaster wounds… where'd you learn that, anyway?"

"Tech speaks Mando’a sometimes. I wanted to understand more… read about the language. Then history. Mandalorians used slugthrowers to fight Jedi lightsabers a long time ago. There were accounts of injured Jedi. I’m not squeamish, so I read that too." She looked up. “Couldn’t let it happen to Hunter.”

Wrecker reached out, putting a massive hand on her head. “See? You did a lot.”

“Not enough. Not until the family is all back together.” She looked at Hunter. He was even more worried than she was about Omega, which was impressive considering how her hearts seemed out of sync the longer the girl was missing. 

Idly, she wondered if the others felt the same way about Crosshair’s absence. 

Hunter leaned over a little and leaned against Shiani, brotherly comfort she hadn’t realized she needed until she was melting against his side and Wrecker pulled them both into a hug as gently as he could. “We’ll get her back, guys.” The big clone murmured faintly. 

Shiani nodded, looking up at Tech’s back as he had returned to his spot in the pilot’s seat. As soon as everyone was safe, because she refused to accept that they wouldn’t be, she wanted to curl up against Tech’s chest and just cry her hearts out. But not until her meltdown wasn’t a distraction. Not until she was sure she wouldn’t cause him to make a mistake that lost them their precious little sister. 

"I'm picking up something on the comm." Echo called. 

"Hunter? …. -ho? Tech? Wreck-... -ani?" Omega's voice was broken up by static, but everyone lurched at their names. 

"Omega?!" Hunter nearly dumped himself on the floor in an attempt to climb through the comm and get to her. "Omega, where are you?!"

"I'm not sure… facility… machines like Tipoca City…"

"I'm getting a read on the Lido system." Echo whispered. "The signal isn't strong enough."

"Omega, try to cause a power surge." Tech ordered, hooking his datapad up. 

"Okay."

They waited in agonizing silence as the girl breathed through the static. 

"I've got something." Tech started. Before he could explain, the comm started rustling and Hunter's skin prickled at the sound of Cad Bane's voice. 

"Let me go! Hunter, I need you!"

"Omega!" The sergeant froze at a crunching sound that left the comm dead. "Where is she, Tech?"

"The signal is coming from Bora Vio." The genius ran for the cockpit again, setting the navi-computer. "Hold on."

Everyone braced as they lurched the correct direction. Shiani let Hunter squeeze the life out of her tentacles, teeth clenched. 

We’re coming for you, Baby Mega. Hold on. 

"Cloud coverage is not ideal." Tech muttered. Bora Vio was swathed in it, and even as Echo scanned for another ship signature they had only Omega's last known to go on. If the bounty hunter had moved her-

"Flying thing!" From the rear of the ship, Shiani was pressed against the tailgun glass. "Round pod!" She had no idea what to call it, but she could at least describe it. 

"It's falling out of the sky. Scoop it up, Tech." Hunter ordered. Somewhere deep in his chest, he was sure she was on board. 

Shiani came running out of the back, throwing Wrecker into a seat and yanking his lap bar down as Tech dove. Three tentacles suction cupped her to the wall, the fourth holding Hunter from going flying. Tech was a masterful pilot, and they locked the pod into place before it hit the ground. 

The siren jogged to the hatch before Wrecker could get himself out of his seat and opened it, peeking in. "Baby Mega?"

"Shiani?!" A pair of terrified brown eyes looked up at her, the girl holding up still cuffed hands from inside the pod.

Shiani sat on the floor and stretched her tentacles down, wrapping securely around the little one's waist and hauling her up and into the air above the siren's head. "You hurt?"

"N-no…" Omega whimpered. 

Shiani brought her down into comforting arms as she jettisoned the pod with her free limbs. "Shh. You’re safe now." Her claw dug into the lock of the cuffs, tripping the mechanism until they popped open. "There. Better?"

"Y-yeah… thank you…"

Shiani carried her into the front of the ship, setting Omega on her feet delicately. The blonde immediately ran to Hunter, who winced when she collided with his injury but hugged her back anyway. "We got you. You're okay now." He whispered, all the fight melting from his exhausted body. 

"Why is this happening? What do they want from me?" She whispered. 

"You've got to tell her, Hunter." Echo sighed.

While Hunter knelt slowly to explain what Tech had discovered about her genetics, Shiani ran to the cockpit. Tech was turned around in the pilot's seat, having set the nav, and was watching the reunion with his usual detached expression. The kid was safe, everything else was okay…

He looked up at Shiani as she approached, expression giving nothing away. "Yes?"

"You okay with touching right now?" She whispered. 

He nodded curiously, and was surprised when she simply climbed into his arms and buried her face in his shoulder. "Are you alright, cyar'ika?"

"I was so scared." Her teeth chattered. "It's over now, don't have to… pretend to be brave now. Can I just have a hug? I hated all of that."

His arms wound tightly over her. "I am here." Relief flooded him. She'd been propping herself up, not running. Echo had been right. "I've got you."

Safe in his arms, Shaini pressed her cheek to his chest and finally sobbed out the terror of it all. The Empire, Crosshair, the gunshot wound in Hunter's chest, the loss of Omega… no, she wasn't a soldier like them. But she was part of this family now, and that came with a monumental amount of uncertainty. At least she had Tech, her very best friend in the entire galaxy.

"Come on. Let's get back to your bed… I will stay with you for a while. It will be almost a full rotation back to Ord Mantell." Tech picked her up and carried her to their bed. He was happy to support her now, and keep her to himself a little while. 

He’d been scared too, but it was easier to get comfort from her under the guise of giving it.

[mechwarrior-rose]

Shelter: Pirate's Eclipse

KENNEDY BEACH OBERON VI OBERON CONFEDERATION 28 SEPTEMBER 3049

Shelter's assessment earlier had been correct. An even dozen lasers, six on each arm. Mediums, by the look of it. No other weapons. Magnetic resonance was convinced the 'Mech was 50 tons. What kind of engine could supply that much power for weapons and still move a 50-ton machine around that quickly? And who the hell designed a 'Mech whose shoulder and hip actuators ran in a straight line right through the torsos?

He and the enemy pilot were circling each other, sizing one another up. The other 'Mechs of the enemy lance stood eerily still. So did the crumpled form of Rieck's Marauder. Why hadn't he punched out yet? He was conscious, had to be, because he'd opened the private channel to receive Shelter's message.

No more time. The enemy tightened their circle in to run directly at Shelter. He slammed down his pedals and ignited the Griffin's jump jets. Light burst from the enemy 'Mech's left arm and gouged nearly all the armor from his left side in a single salvo. Barely anything left on his torso and leg, and the internal structure of his arm was fully laid bare. Burning gods above and below, how powerful were those lasers?! Shelter fired all three of his own in turn. The large and one of the mediums scored deep into the armor of the enemy's right torso; the other medium piddled across their right arm.

Shelter landed harder than he'd intended. Sure, he was certified on a Griffin, but he was still a tech, not a MechWarrior. He'd only ever used jump jets under controlled conditions at the proving grounds. Twice. Six years ago. Automatic systems kept him from stumbling, but he could hear the gyro straining from the effort.

Where was all the heat going in that 'Mech? Twelve lasers, half a dozen at a time in volley fire, in a medium machine. Firing that spread once would put a load on any Griffin, and that was assuming that those over-tuned lasers didn't produce more heat than a standard medium. Yet the enemy didn't seem to feel the heat at all. Shelter scrambled to calculate the minimum heat transfer coefficient to make it work.

Turn off your engineering brain, dumbass! The enemy had executed a neat turn on their own jump jets and brought their left side around to protect their damaged flank. Another six-laser volley and the Griffin's left arm was entirely gone. Hip actuator damaged on the right side. Desperately low armor in both torsos. The neural feedback wasn't in the danger zone, but the loss of the arm was playing havoc with the interplay between the Griffin's gyro and Shelter's own inner ear.

These weren't pirates. Whatever the fuck they were, they were bad news, and they weren't going to stop with the Oberon Confederation.

One more punch of the jets, and the Griffin arced over the enemy machine. Shelter fired the moment his reticle passed over metal, but his eyes were on the beach beyond the cockpit glass. The Marauder's cockpit was still intact. What was Rieck doing?

No, there he was, running along the beach. He'd popped his cockpit hatch and clambered down on his own. The SERE kit pouch was slapping against his thigh as he hauled ass. Good. He could meet up with Razor Two and take refuge in the trees. Shelter prayed to absent gods that he could give them enough time.

Shelter landed more gracefully this time. Still, the impact jarred sweat into his eyes. He blinked desperately. Had to find the enemy.

But the strange 'Mech had collapsed. Shelter's almost literally aimless shots had damaged the enemy's engine and forced a failsafe shutdown.

The remaining enemy 'Mechs were still and silent, as if they were as shocked at the outcome as Shelter was. But soon enough the Catamarauder--Shelter decided it had to be named something--stepped forward. Once again, the woman's voice came over broadband.

"Warrior, you have bested two of Clan Wolf's elite warriors, one in single combat. The outcome of this battle is foregone, but know that your valor is recognized."

"Big talk for someone about to get acquainted with the dirt," Shelter snapped into his mic, then pushed his 'Mech into a run.

The Catamarauder's missile pods roared like lions. Explosions covered the Griffin. Not a single location escaped unscathed, including the head. Two missiles hit high--above the glass, but still close and loud enough to turn the inside of the cockpit into a front seat at the world's worst noise metal concert. Neural feedback, the real shit this time, seared through Shelter's brain.

The Griffin hit the ground. Engine power was gone. Hell, the Griffin itself was probably an unrecognizable slag heap. There was booming and rattling and clanging for what felt like forever. A monitor panel dislodged from the console and bounced off Shelter's neurohelmet. Then, finally, silence, punctuated only by the cartoonish ping-ping-ping of a washer falling into the rear compartment of the cockpit.

Shelter took a moment to catch his breath and assess himself. Probably had a concussion. Always assume a concussion. Gash on his shoulder that he hoped wasn't deep. His muscles and bones were still ringing from the fall. One of his boots had come off.

The radio was on backup power, but there had been a cut somewhere in the feed to the neurohelmet. Shelter popped the buckle on his five-point harness and dragged the bulky helmet off his shoulders. The air against his scalp reminded him that--

He turned up the speaker built into the radio and grabbed the hand unit. "This is Razor Four. Three enemy units in grid gamma six. Razor Lance is down. Request..." He paused. Request what? Reinforcements? Extraction? A blanket and a bedtime story? His head was swimming.

"Warrior Shelter, last of her family," Star Captain Mila spoke on the radio. "Your 'Mech is disabled and your world has fallen. I claim you as isorla for the benefit of Clan Wolf. Stand down and await medical assistance."

"His," Shelter said automatically. "Last of his family."

He let himself fall back against the command couch's back. There was more chatter on the radio, but he didn't bother trying to parse it. He'd failed. He'd been supposed to die in combat, and somehow that was supposed to fix things for Oberon VI and the War Griffins. He was hazy on the details. But here he was, alive and a captive. Failure.

"Fucking pirates," he mumbled. He reached for the SERE kit, but the effort made him dizzy. He didn't remember anything after that.

[sign-seeker]

*cracks knuckles*

Transparisteel is not glass, because glass exists as a separate substance in the GFFA: Notably, the Cathedral of Winds on the planet Vortex is a colossal building famous for being built out of glass with incredible delicacy. Transparisteel is, as it's name implies, a transparent metal which is used to make viewings windows and cockpit canopies in Starships, as other transparent materials could not withstand the forces they would be subject to during space travel and battles.

Similarly, paper also exists, but is considered inefficient to produce and flimsi is ubiquitous as a paper replacement. If you find a book or document made of actual paper, you know that it either came from a very low-tech world, was commissioned by someone very rich, or is really fucking old. "Flimsi" is a standard opaque paper analogue, whilst "flimsiplast" is a transparent plastic-like writing sheet, like the kind you would use on a projector.

As Durasteel and Duraplast suggest, Dura- is a prefix which is used in construction materials, indicating that the material has been produced in such a way as to increase it's durability and stress tolerance beyond normal levels. There is also Duracrete, a concrete analogue used in the construction of buildings.

Speaking of engineering materials, in addition to Durasteel (fucking hard high-density metal) and Duraplast (fucking hard high density plastic) there is also Plasteel, the midway point between metal and plastic, for when you need to combine the durability of metal with the lightweight nature of plastic, for example in prosthetics. In legends continuity, Luke's artificial hand is made of Plasteel beneath it's synthskin covering. (In one of the new continuity novels it is referred to as being made of plasticine, which made me throw the book at the wall). I don't think there's ever been mention of anything like plascrete or steelcrete, but honestly, I suspect it wouldn't seem out of place. Star Wars is daft like that.

In addition to Kriff, "Stang" is used as a swear word. It's considered rude, but not quite as rude as Kriff.

"Vape" (short for vaporise) is a slang term for "destroy", often used by combat pilots.

Holos and other datatypes are often transmitted through an internet analogue called the "Holonet". During Imperial times, the Holonet was under strict Imperial control, hence why plucky Princesses have to resort to physically sending plucky Astromech Droids to old Jedi on remote desert planets, instead of just emailing them.

The defining feature of an Astromech droid is that it is designed to interface with Starship functions, serving as a combined engineer and navigator: in addition to fixing a ship, on smaller ships (such as Luke's X-Wing) in which the navicomp (navigational computer) is not large or powerful to calculate hyperspace routes, the plugged in Astromech droid will have a dedicated piece of kit inside them to handle that task. (The process of calculating navigational processes for space travel is called "Astrogation".) If a droid has a similar set up to an Astromech but does not have these specific capabilities, it is a "Utility Droid".

By the same logic, while most humanoid Droids seen in the movies are Protocol Droids, this is not what defines them: Protocol Droids are, self-explicably, built for maintaining protocol: translating, cultural understanding, and diplomacy. Non-Protocol humanoid Droids have included inventory Droids, tactician Droids and bodyguard Droids.

"Sliders" exist, but no other forms of burgers, apparently. They don't come on buns though: they are served on "foodboards". No, really.

Tea exists, but instead of coffee, there is "caf". A "tapcaf" is an establishment that serves caf, and often small food items, so basically a coffeeshop, as distinct from a cantina, which is more like a bar or a pub, selling alcohol. If you need serious energy, there is "Stimtea" and "Stimcaf", fortified to give you extra pep.

Interestingly, chocolate exists, but is a rarity, growing on only 7 planets in the known GFFA. Rather than being eaten, it is most commonly consumed as a drink in the form of hot chocolate by rich people. It is Luke Skywalker's favourite drink. Seriously, Lando Calrissian introduces Luke to hot chocolate and he starts keeping a carefully hoarded stash of the stuff in his quarters at the New Jedi Temple. You know you are in his good graces if he invites you to share a cup with him. This was a long established minor character trait for Luke and it is so, so funny to me.

Everyone knows about Spice the drug, but it's not a specific drug: "spice" is a catchall term for all drugs, and different kinds of spice are produced in different ways and have different effects. The spice that Han Solo was supposed to be smuggling for Jabba was "Kessel Spice" (from the Spice Mines of Kessel), which is sold under the street name "Glitterstim": it is heroin that temporarily gives you psychic powers. (A later writer thought this was stupid, and tried to claim that "gullible people believed it gives people psychic powers" but come on man. The space heroin makes people psychic and you can't undo that.) There is also "Andris Spice", which is space cocaine that makes you perceive the world in bullet time! Han and Leia's children make friends with a teenage girl addicted to Andris Spice who uses it to let her wield a lightsaber with Jedi-like reflexes, even though she has no force sensitivity! Yay for drugs! (Speaking of the Spice Mines of Kessel, they don't actually "mine" the Kessel Spice: in the pitch black tunnels live the Energy Spiders, giant spiders who weave glowing webs to lure in prey. Kessel Spice is the dried and dessicated remains of these webs, which the miners (who are slaves, Kessel is a shitty place for most of the timeline) collect at great risk to themselves.)

Ships "jump" to hyperspace, but there is also a specific term for leaving hyperspace: "Decantation". A ship "decants" out of hyperspace back into "realspace". In realspace, ships travel using their "sublight engines", except during landing and takeoff, which they handle using their "repulsorlifts", the same technology which lets speeders float.

Blaster technology is the tech of choice for personal weapons, firing bolts of superheated energised plasma that burn through flesh. Most blasters also have a stun setting, although I'm damned if I know how that works. It is a plot point in one novel that the Stun setting on blasters is not safe to use of pregnant people, as it is likely to cause miscarriage. Again, really. However, conventional guns still exist in low technology societies, going by the name "slugthrowers" because they. Y'know. Throw metal slugs. They are considered deeply inferior to blasters. While blasters are ubiquitous in ground combat, blaster bolts lose cohesion over very long distances, making them unsuited for space combat, where focused laser beams still reign supreme. This, the large rapid-firing cannon batteries on larger Starships are "Turbolaser batteries". Laser arrays can also have different names based on their construction: for instance, the four laser cannons mounted on the wings of an X-Wing are called the "Quadlasers". (An X-Wing pilot can set their Quadlasers to "linked fire" or "stutter fire": stutter fire causes the lasers to fire slightly out of synch with each other, which causes the shots to land slightly apart from each other, which is useful for draining an enemy's shields by forcing them to cover incoming fire from multiple angles. Once the shield is low or drained, the pilot will switch to linked fire so all the cannons fire simultaneously, concentrating all firepower in one spot to blast through the enemy hull). I should however, correct myself: no starship has "wings", even if they have "wing" in their name. Instead they have "foils", most commonly s-foils (standing for space foils), hence the order given in A New Hope by Red Leader to "Lock S-Foils in Attack Position".

It's occurring to me that I am a sad, sad man to be able to write all of this from memory.

star wars is so fucking stupid, I love it

[armstrongsteelbuildings]

Tech Ready: Why Data Centers Are Turning to Pre-Engineered Buildings

The sharp rise in data usage and the rapid growth of the digital economy are fueling demand for larger, more advanced data centers. But the question is: Can your tech business build fast enough to keep up? If you move away from traditional construction methods, you can use pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) instead. These structures offer a faster, lower-risk way to get critical infrastructure up and running, with streamlined on-site assembly and shorter build times.

At Armstrong Steel, we understand the urgency behind scaling infrastructure for cloud computing, secure server storage, and other tech applications. Let’s break down how pre-engineered metal buildings meet the unique demands of data center construction — from speed and flexibility to cost control and energy performance.

The rise of data centers and how PEMBs help

Data centers are the cornerstone of today’s digital economy. Every cloud computing, streaming, and click depends on these facilities, so it’s no surprise that the global data center market is set to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% from 2023 to 2030. But meeting that demand isn't easy — tech companies are under pressure to build smarter, faster, and more adaptable infrastructure. Here’s what they’re up against:

Scalability: Data centers must grow or adapt as quickly as digital needs evolve. Facilities should allow for seamless expansion or downsizing — whether that means adding more server space or reconfiguring layouts — without major cost or construction disruptions.

Energy efficiency: Running a data center requires a massive and constant supply of electricity. Businesses must find ways to optimize energy use through better insulation, cooling systems, and layout planning, all while maintaining performance and keeping operational costs under control.

Aesthetic appeal: In modern business parks or tech campuses, functionality alone isn’t enough. Data centers are part of a company’s brand image, so the exterior design should reflect professionalism and architectural quality.

Speed of expansion: With market demands shifting fast, data centers must be built and expanded quickly. Long construction timelines can mean missed opportunities, so companies need building solutions that speed up delivery without compromising on quality or safety.

The answer: PEMBs

Pre-engineered metal buildings address these challenges with the speed, energy efficiency, and flexibility they offer. Unlike traditional construction, these structures are ready to assemble and erect on site. With PEMBs, you can build a functional and aesthetically pleasing data center quickly and cost-effectively.

The benefits of pre-engineered steel data center buildings

Traditional construction using wood, concrete, and masonry will only delay your project. Meanwhile, pre-engineered metal buildings can keep pace with the flexibility and speed expected in data center construction. Here’s a more in-depth look at the benefits of PEMBs and why they make excellent data centers.

Speedy construction

One of the significant benefits of PEMBs is their quick construction. We make all components of your prefabricated steel building kit in our factory under controlled conditions, ensuring each aspect is carefully engineered to your local building codes, loads, and environmental conditions. This approach could reduce the project timeline by up to 50%.

If you need a data center within 6 months, choosing pre-engineered metal buildingswill allow you to meet that deadline without compromising quality and structural integrity. At Armstrong Steel, we make prefab steel buildings with custom assembly drawings, anchor bolt patterns, and a comprehensive erection guide. The major connections are already punched and ready to bolt together. Moreover, most components are cut and numbered, so you can assemble them based on the drawings.

Flexible designs

Pre-engineered metal buildings are highly customizable. At Armstrong Steel, we can customize the prefab steel building kit to meet your data center’s unique dimensions, layout, and structural needs. Their modular layouts allow endless expansions in the future. In addition, our designs can accommodate any external or internal finish or wall and roofing option, ensuring your building won't look too industrial.

Whether you require a modular or clear-span structure, we can accommodate any design requirement. This flexibility allows you to make the most of the space. For instance, you can incorporate a mix of modular community spaces, offices, an open-plan workspace, and a spacious server room that can adapt to your growing requirements.

Cost-effectiveness

Pre-engineered metal buildings are quick to assemble and erect, contributing to reduced labor costs. Each part is pre-fabricated, reducing material waste and surprise costs. Plus, their low maintenance needs and durability bring long-term savings.

Durable, worry-free data centers

You won’t have to worry about extreme weather when you use a pre-engineered metal building for your data center. These structures are strong and can withstand high winds, hurricanes, and heavy snowfall. Plus, we engineer them to withstand the seismic activity in your region. Building with steel also protects your data center against fires. It’s non-combustible, so it’s unlikely for fire to spread too quickly and burn everything down.

Energy efficiency

Today’s pre-engineered metal buildings are more energy efficient, thanks to modern insulation technologies. They are easy to integrate with solar-ready roofing, insulated metal panels, and sophisticated ventilation systems. These features can help reduce your energy costs, saving you money down the road.

Let’s design a high-quality data center for your business.

Get in touch with our team here at Armstrong Steel if you’re interested in pre-engineered metal buildings for your data center. We’ll work with you to design and manufacture the perfect structure that meets your exact requirements. Additionally, we will make sure your building is delivered on time. Call us at 1-800-345-4610 to get started now, or click ‘Price My Building’ to get a custom quote.

[sathcreation]

Understanding Circuits & Conductors – Class 4 Science Guide

What is Electricity?

Electricity is a form of energy. It powers lights, fans, computers, and many devices we use every day. We cannot see electricity, but we can see what it does. It flows like water through wires and gives energy to things to make them work For More...

To use electricity safely and correctly, we need to understand how it moves. That’s why we learn about circuits and conductors.

What is a Circuit?

A circuit is a path that electricity follows. It is like a road. Just like cars travel on roads, electricity travels on wires. A circuit must be complete, meaning it must form a loop, or the electricity cannot move.

Basic Parts of a Circuit

Power Source – Usually a battery. It gives the energy.

Wires – They carry the electricity.

Switch – It opens or closes the circuit.

Load – A device like a bulb or buzzer that uses the electricity.

When the switch is turned on, the circuit is closed and electricity flows. When the switch is off, the circuit is open, and electricity stops.

Open and Closed Circuits

Closed Circuit: Electricity flows. The bulb lights up.

Open Circuit: Electricity stops. The bulb stays off.

Understanding this helps us fix simple problems. If your torch doesn’t light up, check if the circuit is complete.

Series and Parallel Circuits

We can join more than one bulb in a circuit. There are two ways:

Series Circuit: Bulbs are connected one after another. If one bulb breaks, all stop working.

Parallel Circuit: Bulbs are connected in separate loops. If one bulb breaks, others still work.

In your home, lights are connected in parallel. That way, if one bulb fails, the rest still work.

What are Conductors?

Conductors are materials that let electricity pass through them easily. They help build circuits. Metals are good conductors.

Examples of Conductors:

Copper

Aluminum

Iron

Gold

Silver

In most circuits, copper wires are used because copper is a very good conductor and is not too expensive.

What are Insulators?

Insulators do not let electricity pass through. They protect us from electric shocks. We wrap wires with plastic, which is an insulator.

Examples of Insulators:

Plastic

Rubber

Wood

Glass

Paper

Insulators are very important in keeping electricity safe.

Activity: Make a Simple Circuit

Let’s build a small circuit using safe items.

You Need:

1 AA battery

1 small bulb

2 wires

1 paperclip (as a switch)

Steps:

Connect one wire to one end of the battery.

Connect the other end of that wire to one side of the bulb.

Take the second wire and connect it to the other side of the bulb.

Touch the free end of that wire to the other end of the battery.

The bulb should light up. You just made a closed circuit.

Now try adding the paperclip in between like a switch. If you open the paperclip, the light should go off.

Safety Tip: Never use electricity from the wall for this. Always use batteries for small experiments.

Why Do Some Materials Conduct Electricity?

Some materials have electrons that can move easily. Metals have these electrons. That’s why metals conduct electricity. Rubber, plastic, and wood do not have free electrons, so they block the flow.

How We Use Circuits in Real Life

In Homes: Circuits power lights, fans, TVs, and kitchen appliances.

In Schools: Circuits help in computers, projectors, and science tools.

In Toys: Remote control cars and robots use tiny circuits to work.

Who Designs Circuits?

People who design and fix circuits are called electricians or engineers. They learn how to plan safe and useful circuits in buildings and machines.

Learn More with Gritty Tech

If you're excited to learn about circuits, conductors, and real-life electronics, Gritty Tech is the place to grow your skills. Gritty Tech offers hands-on learning tools for young minds. Their kits are safe, interactive, and perfect for Class 4 students.

They provide:

Easy-to-use circuit boards

Beginner electronics kits

Online tutorials for children

Science projects made simple

Their goal is to help every child understand technology, not just use it.

Visit www.grittytech.com to explore science kits, courses, and more.

Gritty Tech believes that every child can build the future. With their products, learning science is fun and easy. Whether you're a student, teacher, or parent, Gritty Tech helps you build better learning at home or school.

Review Questions

What is a circuit?

Name two parts of a basic circuit.

What is the difference between a conductor and an insulator?

Give two examples of conductors.

What happens when a circuit is open?

True or False

Copper is a good conductor. (True)

Plastic can carry electricity. (False)

A bulb will glow in an open circuit. (False)

Batteries are insulators. (False)

Electricity can flow in a closed circuit. (True)

Let’s Try More

Make a chart of things at home. Test which ones are conductors and which are insulators. Use a simple battery and bulb circuit.

Examples:

Spoon (metal): Conductor

Pencil (wood): Insulator

Aluminum foil: Conductor

Eraser: Insulator

How Gritty Tech Helps Class 4 Learners

Gritty Tech isn’t just for big kids. Their science kits are made with young learners in mind. With simple circuits and magnetic connectors, even Class 4 students can build real projects.

Each kit includes:

Child-safe components

Color-coded wires

Step-by-step guides

Online videos for guidance

They even offer school packages for classroom use. Teachers love Gritty Tech because it saves time, and students enjoy it because it feels like play, not study.

Visit www.grittytech.com to start building circuits today.

Summary

Electricity powers much of our world. To understand how it works, we learn about circuits and conductors. Circuits must be closed for electricity to flow. Conductors let electricity pass, and insulators block it. Knowing how to build and test simple circuits helps us learn science with our own hands.

Tools like those from Gritty Tech help students turn science into action. With the right learning tools, every child can become an inventor.

[flexirfinc1]

Clear signal every time with a perfect 3dB attenuator

Getting a clean and reliable RF signal isn’t just about power — it’s about control. If you’ve ever dealt with signal distortion, mismatch, or unwanted reflections, you already know how important it is to manage signal strength properly. That’s where a 3DB attenuator comes in. It’s a simple tool that solves some of the most frustrating problems in RF setups.

Whether working in a lab, setting up a test bench, or doing field work, using the right attenuator can save time and reduce noise in your system. We offer several high-quality RF attenuators ready to ship fast, so you’re never left waiting.

Here’s why choosing the right attenuator — especially a 3 dB or SMS attenuator — makes a big difference.

Why a 3DB attenuator is the Go-To Choice

A 3DB attenuator is one of the most used types for a reason. It reduces signal power by half, which helps prevent overload in sensitive RF receivers and test equipment. That slight drop in signal can protect your gear and keep everything running smoothly.

Perfect for signal balancing: This is your go-to if you're working on splitting power between paths or keeping signal levels even across multiple devices.

Reliable for testing: Testing gear or simulating loss in real-world conditions? This is an easy fix that saves time and money.

Safe for your equipment: Dropping the signal by 3 dB can be the difference between clean performance and damaging spikes.

We carry attenuators that are made with precision and built for demanding environments. The models come in multiple connector types, including SMA, 2.4mm, and 2.92mm, so you get exactly what you need.

What Makes a SMA Attenuator a Solid Pick

The SMA attenuator stands out for its size, reliability, and solid connection. These are commonly used in high-frequency setups, and we offer models that cover ranges from DC up to 67GHz.

Compact design: SMA connectors are small but durable, great for crowded workspaces or portable kits.

Wide frequency range: Our SMA attenuator options handle everything from basic testing to high-frequency designs, giving you flexibility across projects.

Strong build quality: Brass tri-metal plated bodies offer long-lasting use, especially in lab or field setups with a lot of wear.

You’ll find SMA attenuator models starting at budget-friendly prices without cutting corners on quality.

Why People Keep Coming Back to Us

We care about the little details that make your job easier — fast shipping, quality products, and good support. Whether you're a technician, engineer, or hobbyist, we’ve covered your RF needs.

Same day shipping: Need it fast? We get it. That’s why we ship most products the same day.

RF engineers available: Got a question? Our tech support team includes experienced RF engineers who are easy to reach.

Thousands of ready-to-ship parts: We've stocked our shelves from attenuators to cables and connectors, so you don’t have to wait.

Custom orders welcome: Need something built to spec? No problem — just let us know.

Take the Guesswork Out of RF Projects

Choosing the right attenuator doesn’t have to be complicated. With our easy-to-navigate selection and trusted quality, you can find what you need without second-guessing.

Visit Flexi RF Inc to browse our complete line of attenuators and other RF parts. Whether it’s a 3DB attenuator, a SMA attenuator, or something more specific, we’ve got what you need to keep your signals clean and your projects moving forward.

Source:- Clear signal every time with a perfect 3dB attenuator

[vapeshopdubaiuae]

Advantages of IQOS ILUMA Kit Device

In a rapidly evolving world of smoke-free alternatives, IQOS ILUMA represents a significant leap forward. As one of the most advanced offerings in the IQOS lineup by Philip Morris International (PMI), the ILUMA Kit is a heat-not-burn device that brings with it a range of user-focused improvements. From a sleeker design and superior heating technology to a cleaner, more satisfying tobacco experience, the IQOS ILUMA is engineered for adult smokers looking for a smarter and more refined alternative to traditional smoking.

Let’s explore the advantages of the IQOS ILUMA Kit device in detail, highlighting what sets it apart in the world of modern tobacco heating systems.

1. Revolutionary SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™

The IQOS ILUMA is the first device in the IQOS series to use SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™, an innovative heating technology that eliminates the need for a blade. Unlike earlier IQOS devices that heat tobacco using a blade inserted into the tobacco stick, the ILUMA uses induction heating via a metal element inside the specially designed TEREA™ sticks.

Why This Matters:

No Blade = No Breakage: Previous IQOS users often faced issues with broken blades, especially during cleaning. With ILUMA, there's no risk of blade damage, making the device more durable and long-lasting.

Even Heating: Induction technology provides consistent heating across the tobacco stick, ensuring a smooth and satisfying experience every time.

Simpler Maintenance: No blade means less residue build-up, resulting in a maintenance-free design—a huge plus for users who want hassle-free usage.

2. Enhanced Hygiene and Cleanliness

One of the biggest frustrations with earlier heat-not-burn products was the need for frequent cleaning due to tobacco residue. The ILUMA device resolves this with its closed tobacco system, meaning the tobacco is sealed inside the TEREA stick, preventing any direct contact with the heating chamber.

Benefits Include:

No Tobacco Residue: The sealed design ensures that tobacco remains within the stick, keeping the device clean.

No Cleaning Required: Unlike traditional IQOS devices that required regular cleaning, the ILUMA is virtually maintenance-free.

Improved Hygiene: With no open tobacco, the chances of dust or loose leaf particles are greatly minimized.

3. Superior Flavor and Consistency

Because the IQOS ILUMA heats tobacco more evenly, users report richer flavors and a more satisfying experience. The improved consistency means that every stick delivers a uniform taste, enhancing the overall satisfaction level.

No Burnt Taste: Even heating avoids the burnt flavors sometimes experienced with blade-based systems.

True Tobacco Flavor: The ILUMA provides a closer approximation to the taste of traditional smoking, making the transition smoother for new users.

4. Modern, Premium Design

Aesthetics matter—especially when it comes to personal devices. The IQOS ILUMA Kit is a beautifully designed piece of technology. It’s sleek, minimalist, and available in a range of premium finishes and colors.

Design Advantages:

Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry in your pocket or bag.

Magnetic Lock System: Ensures smooth opening and closing.

Personalization Options: Interchangeable accessories allow users to customize the look of their device.

LED Indicators: Give clear and intuitive feedback on battery status and usage.

5. Intelligent Functions and Smart Features

The ILUMA Kit is not just good-looking—it’s smart, too. With features designed to enhance usability, it’s a modern tobacco heating solution for tech-savvy consumers.

Smart Features Include:

Auto Start: Begins heating as soon as the TEREA stick is inserted—no buttons needed.

Vibration Feedback: Notifies the user when the device is ready and when the session is ending.

Smart Connect App (in select markets): Enables users to track usage, customize alerts, and locate the device via Bluetooth.

6. Longer Battery Life and Fast Charging

The IQOS ILUMA Kit is built for high-frequency users. With one full charge, users can enjoy multiple sessions without needing to recharge.

Power Perks:

Up to 20 sessions per charge (depending on the model).

Quick Recharge Time: Full charge in under 2 hours.

USB-C Port: Faster and more reliable charging.

7. Wide Range of TEREA™ Stick Flavors

The TEREA sticks, designed exclusively for the ILUMA, come in a wide variety of flavors ranging from classic tobacco to menthol and fruity notes. This ensures that users can find the perfect match for their taste preferences.

Flavor Options Include:

TEREA Smooth Regular

TEREA Rich Regular

TEREA Balanced Yellow

TEREA Menthol

TEREA Mint

TEREA Purple Menthol

TEREA Black Green

This variety provides greater flexibility and personalization in how users enjoy their tobacco experience.

8. No Ash, Less Smell, and Lower Harm Potential

As a heat-not-burn product, IQOS ILUMA offers a cleaner alternative to combustible cigarettes.

Key Health & Lifestyle Benefits:

No Combustion: The tobacco is heated, not burned, reducing the creation of harmful chemicals.

No Smoke or Ash: Eliminates common messes and reduces odor.

Less Smell on Hands and Clothes: Ideal for indoor use or environments where discretion is important.

While not risk-free, research by PMI and independent studies suggest that IQOS emits significantly fewer harmful substances compared to traditional cigarettes.

9. Environmentally Conscious Design

Philip Morris is also working to reduce the environmental impact of its products. The ILUMA’s design reflects a sustainable approach, with recyclable components and efforts to minimize waste.

Long-lasting Device: Built to last, reducing electronic waste.

Recyclable Packaging: Many regions offer device recycling programs.

Sealed Sticks = Less Litter: No loose tobacco or ash to clean up.

Conclusion: Why Choose the IQOS ILUMA Kit?

The IQOS ILUMA Kit isn’t just a next-gen nicotine delivery system—it’s a thoughtfully designed lifestyle upgrade for adult smokers seeking a smarter, cleaner, and more satisfying alternative to smoking.

Key Takeaways:

Revolutionary induction heating = no blade, no cleaning.

Clean, consistent tobacco experience with rich flavors.

Premium design with modern features like auto-start and vibration alerts.

Extensive flavor range with the TEREA sticks.

No ash, less smell, and reduced health risks compared to smoking.

Whether you’re a long-time IQOS user looking to upgrade, or a smoker looking for a reliable and cleaner transition, IQOS ILUMA delivers innovation without compromise. It’s not just a device—it’s a new era of tobacco enjoyment.

[gimstechpower]

Grounding and Bonding in Bahrain: Enhancing Electrical Safety with Gims Tech Power

In an increasingly interconnected world, electrical safety and data integrity are two pillars of reliable infrastructure. Whether you're setting up a commercial facility, an industrial plant, or a data center, ensuring proper grounding and bonding in Bahrain is not just a regulatory requirement — it's a strategic necessity. At the same time, the need for seamless communication drives demand for a strong Data Connectivity Solution in Bahrain.

Gims Tech Power, a trusted name in the Bahraini electrical industry, provides both. From complete grounding systems that protect assets and personnel to smart data solutions that connect operations, the company is your go-to partner for safe, scalable, and compliant infrastructure.

What Is Grounding and Bonding – And Why Is It Critical?

Grounding refers to connecting parts of an electrical system to the earth to stabilize voltage levels and dissipate fault currents. Bonding, on the other hand, ensures that all metallic parts of the system are electrically connected to prevent differences in potential.

In Bahrain's climate — where humidity, salinity, and high temperatures can stress electrical systems — robust grounding and bonding is even more critical. Without it, the risks include:

Electrical shock or electrocution

Equipment damage from surges or lightning

System instability

Fire hazards

Data loss due to electrical noise and EMI

Proper grounding ensures protection from these dangers while also improving equipment performance and prolonging system life.

Gims Tech Power: Your Partner in Grounding and Bonding in Bahrain

Gims Tech Power specializes in grounding and bonding in Bahrain, supplying top-quality components and providing engineering support for installation, layout, and system design. Their offerings comply with global standards such as NEC, IEC, and IEEE, ensuring maximum safety and code compliance.

Core components offered include:

Earth Rods (Copper-Bonded, Galvanized, and Stainless Steel)

Grounding Conductors (Stranded & Solid Copper or Aluminum)

Chemical Earthing Systems

Ground Enhancement Material (Bentonite, Marconite, GEM)

Bonding Jumpers and Busbars

Exothermic Welding Kits

Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)

Each component is chosen for durability, conductivity, and performance in both standard and extreme environments.

Applications Across Sectors

Gims Tech Power provides grounding and bonding systems for:

Commercial Buildings

Industrial Facilities

Oil & Gas Installations

Power Plants & Substations

Data Centers

Hospitals & Airports

Telecommunication Towers

From small office buildings to sprawling industrial complexes, Gims Tech Power ensures safety from the ground up.

Connecting Infrastructure: Data Connectivity Solution in Bahrain

While grounding and bonding protect systems from physical and electrical damage, seamless data connectivity keeps operations running smoothly. As businesses across Bahrain adopt smart technologies, automation, and IoT, the need for an efficient Data Connectivity Solution in Bahrain has never been more urgent.

Gims Tech Power bridges the gap between protection and performance with a full suite of networking and communication solutions.

Their data connectivity portfolio includes:

Structured Cabling Systems (CAT6, CAT6A, CAT7)

Fiber Optic Cables and Accessories

Data Racks and Enclosures

Patch Panels and Keystone Jacks

Switches, Patch Cords, and Network Accessories

Cable Management Systems for Data Centers

With a focus on speed, scalability, and security, Gims Tech Power provides solutions that meet the growing data demands of modern businesses.

How Grounding Enhances Data Connectivity

What many don’t realize is that grounding systems and data systems are interconnected. Poor grounding can:

Introduce noise into data signals

Disrupt transmission

Cause equipment malfunctions

Lead to costly downtime

By offering both Grounding and Bonding in Bahrain and Data Connectivity Solutions, Gims Tech Power ensures that every aspect of your electrical and communication system works in harmony.

End-to-End Support for Projects

Whether you’re building a hospital, retrofitting an office space, or launching a new industrial plant, Gims Tech Power offers:

🔧 Design Consultation – Custom layout and product recommendations

📦 Reliable Supply Chain – Full stock of grounding and data materials

🛠️ Installation Support – On-site assistance and training

📃 Code Compliance – Adherence to NEC, IEEE, IEC, and local Bahraini regulations

🔄 Scalable Solutions – Ready for future expansions or system upgrades

This makes Gims Tech Power more than just a supplier — they’re a strategic infrastructure partner.

Why Choose Gims Tech Power?

Here’s what sets them apart in Bahrain’s competitive electrical and tech space:

✅ Complete Solution Provider – Grounding, bonding, and data — all from one vendor ✅ Global Standards Compliance – Products and systems you can trust ✅ Expert Engineering Team – Technical guidance and support ✅ Large Local Inventory – Ready-to-ship materials reduce project delays ✅ Proven Track Record – Serving major projects across Bahrain and the GCC

Final Thoughts

In today’s high-performance, high-stakes environments, safety and connectivity are two sides of the same coin. With Grounding and Bonding in Bahrain, Gims Tech Power helps you build resilient, hazard-free systems. At the same time, their Data Connectivity Solution in Bahrain ensures fast, stable communication that keeps your operations connected, intelligent, and future-ready.

Whether you’re an electrical contractor, system integrator, or facilities manager — Gims Tech Power is your trusted partner for comprehensive, compliant, and high-quality infrastructure solutions.

[purox-23]

A Detailed Study on Scratch Remover and Paint Use in Cars

Introduction

The visual enchantment of a vehicle performs a important position in defining its universal fee and personality. Unfortunately, scratches are nearly inevitable with daily use. From careless parking to minor injuries, various factors contribute to the wear and tear and tear of your vehicle’s floor. In this special look at, we discover scratch removers, touch-up paints, and paint restore answers—together with how they work, while to apply them, and the way they contribute to lengthy-time period vehicle maintenance.

 Understanding Car Paint Layers 

Before diving into scratch removers and paint answers, it is important to apprehend how a vehicle's paint process is structured: 

Clear Coat – The topmost obvious layer that provides shine and protection. 

Base Coat – The actual color layer of the auto.

 Primer – A preparatory coating that ensures adhesion of the paint. 

Metal Body – The vehicle’s base surface. Scratches affect one or extra of these layers depending on their depth.

Car scratch classification

 Clear coat scratches: These are the most common and least serious. Often inappropriate washing is caused by dust particles or nails. Usually can be removed using polishing compounds or scratch remover. 

Base coat scratches: Darker than clear coat scratches. Often results from exposure to sharp objects or minor collisions. Both scratch remover and touch-up paint are required.

 Primer and metal-level scratches: They are the deepest and most harmful. Can lead war when untreated. Sanding, priming, repenting and sealing are required. 

How does scratch remove work 

Scratch removers are abrasive compounds that help level the surface by removing or combining flaws in clear coats. 

Common types of scratch remover: 

Rubbed compound: A heavy duty formula that removes deep clean scratches and oxidized paint. 

Polishing Compound: Compared to rubbing compounds, it is used for fine scratches and scars.

 All-in-one scratch kit: For DIY facility, mix compounds, applicator pads, microfiber towels and sealants.

Role of motor vehicle paint in repair 

For scratching out of clear coat, scratch remover are insufficient. Here are touch-up paints and automotive painting techniques. 

Step-by-step process to use paint for scratch repair: 

Clean and disintegration: Use a wax removal or rubbing alcohol to clean the scratch area. 

Sand to the area (if deep): Use 2000-3000 grit sandpapers to lubricate scratch edges. 

Apply primer (for metal exposure): Prevents rust and prepares the surface for paint. 

Apply touch-up paint: Use a fine taste to apply thin layers of matching paint. 

Let it fix it: Allow the time of enough drying time between the coat. 

Apply clear coats: Seals the paint and restores the bright finish. 

Polish and buff: Once healed, buff the area to match the surrounding surface. 

Choosing the right paint

 OEM paint code is important for matching combination. 

The paint code is usually found on a sticker inside the driver's doors, engine bays, or the owner's manual.

Innovation in scratch repair technology 

Nano-tech scratches are infected with removals-nano-kanas that target micro-scratches. Ceramic coatings-mamoli provide long-term protection from friction. Self-healing paints-fingering technology that automatically uses heat to repair surface damage. Preventive measures to reduce scratches Park in shaded, low congested areas. Use a car cover in dusty environment. Avoid automatic car washes with abrasive brush. Wash using a two-bocket method with microfiber fabric. Apply wax or ceramic coatings regularly to protect the clear coat. 

conclusion

 Car scratch is a disappointing but general issue. However, with the right knowledge and equipment-quality scratch remover, automotive touch-up paint, and polishing technology-can effectively restore the presence of your car. Whether you are handling minor flaws or considering a complete paint restoration, understanding the nuances of scratch types and treatment methods is the key to the maintenance of the successful car surface.

[weltschmerz735]

As I march blind into becoming an engineer I see mere one thing in this ever shifting fog

It's never the weapon, tech, nor vantage you build, design, and field that will win. For every great metal beast you give birth from the vices of nature's womb there will always be an equal or above-matched counter, there is never such a thing as an unbeatable king for there will always be a guillotine laying in wait to be built.

The only constant, The only guarantee to never be failed is raw tenacity; A tenacity to rival that of a cornered badger. In a world of ever-evolving chess and decapitated kings, the only ever unchanging winner always has been the one with more tenacity, gut, and blood to spare not the one with gadgets and fancy latest gen kit.

[digitalguarddawgonline]

Enhance Your Car with Convenience and Security at Digital Guard Dawg

In a world in which car buyers seek seamless connections linking home and the outside world, keyless ignition has become a great automotive feature. This feature allows you to start your car’s engine without looking for a key in your pocket. You just need to hit a button enabling you to start the engine. Add convenience and security Want to add a comprehensive hands-free keyless convenience and security to whatever you drive? Choose automotive keyless ignitions at Digital Guard Dawg. You can add one of their RFID keyless systemsto your vehicle. With the help of their innovative keyless push button start switch. Digital Guard Dawg – Start your vehicle with the touch of a button The keyless ignition systems at Digital Guard Dawg are designed to provide convenience and security in the best possible way. Equipped with RFID technology, you can use the push button system to start your vehicle with the touch of a button. Bid goodbye to traditional key systems and enjoy the convenience of keyless entry. The tech offered here by the experts make sure that your car will start when the right frequency is matched. Top-notch choice for your car By introducing RFID keyless systems, Digital Guard Dawg has revolutionized how drivers interact with their vehicles. Their keyless ignition systems and start button are designed for convenience and reliability, making them stand out. Being the top-notch choice for car restorations and custom applications, the professionals offer solutions with a perfect balance of security and simplicity. No unauthorized break-ins The keyless ignition system offered by Digital Guard Dawg allows the prohibition of any unauthorized break-ins. As your vehicle will sense the signal from the designated fob, it is difficult to get it started otherwise. Besides, you don’t have to worry about the metal key being copied or any mechanical steering column being forced. In other words, you can ensure an enhanced safety and security of your vehicle. It's time to upgrade! Are you still driving the car with a traditional ignition switch? It’s time to upgrade it to push button start button. Just browse through the products offered by Digital Guard Dawg and enjoy a genuine sense of security. Their products consist of start kits, keyless ignition systems, and anti-theft devices for vehicles, and they can be your trusted partners in vehicle security. Get in touch by visiting https://www.digitalguarddawg.com/ Original Source : https://bit.ly/3XojQsf

[yourcaradvocate]

Custom Car Services: Enhancing Your Vehicle to Match Your Personality

Contact Us On: 0418 127 775

When it comes to owning a vehicle, many of us crave something beyond the generic factory model. Custom car services allow car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike to personalize their rides, enhancing both functionality and style. These services are about transforming vehicles into unique masterpieces that cater to individual preferences. Whether it’s upgrading the interior, enhancing performance, or modifying the exterior, custom car services offer endless possibilities.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of custom car services, exploring their benefits, popular modifications, and how to choose the right service provider.

What Are Custom Car Services?

Custom car services involve altering a vehicle’s features to better suit the owner’s desires or needs. Unlike standard repairs or maintenance, customization focuses on aesthetic upgrades, performance enhancements, and functional modifications.

From adding premium upholstery to equipping high-performance exhaust systems, these services allow owners to create cars that truly reflect their personality. It’s no longer just about driving a vehicle; it’s about making a statement on the road.

Why Invest in Custom Car Services?

1. Personalization

Customization turns a car into an extension of its owner’s identity. Whether it’s a sleek sports car or a rugged SUV, personalized modifications make it uniquely yours.

2. Improved Performance

Enhancements like turbochargers, advanced suspension systems, or high-performance brakes ensure your car isn’t just visually appealing but also performs like a dream.

3. Enhanced Comfort and Luxury

Want heated seats, a premium sound system, or custom lighting? Custom car services offer upgrades that boost comfort and add a luxurious touch.

4. Increased Vehicle Value

Well-executed modifications can raise a car’s resale value, making customization a worthwhile investment for many owners.

Popular Custom Car Services

1. Exterior Modifications

The exterior of a car is often the first thing people notice. Popular customizations include:

Custom Paint Jobs: Choose from matte finishes, metallic shades, or unique patterns to give your car a distinct look.

Body Kits: Enhance aerodynamics and add a sporty appearance with custom bumpers, spoilers, and side skirts.

Wraps and Decals: Vinyl wraps allow for temporary designs, while decals can add subtle personalization.

Wheel Upgrades: Larger wheels, unique rims, and specialized tires enhance both style and performance.

2. Interior Upgrades

Transforming the inside of your vehicle is just as important. Common interior customizations include:

Luxury Upholstery: From leather seats to suede finishes, premium materials elevate the driving experience.

Ambient Lighting: LED interior lighting creates a cozy or futuristic vibe.

High-Tech Gadgets: Additions like touchscreen infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment, or advanced navigation systems are popular upgrades.

Custom Steering Wheels and Dashboards: Personalize the driver’s cockpit with unique materials, colors, and designs.

3. Performance Enhancements

Performance upgrades go beyond aesthetics, improving speed, handling, and efficiency. Popular options include:

Engine Tuning: Increase horsepower and torque for a more powerful ride.

Suspension Systems: Improve handling and comfort with upgraded shocks and springs.

Exhaust Systems: High-performance exhausts enhance sound and efficiency.

Braking Systems: Better brakes improve safety and handling in all conditions.

How to Choose the Right Custom Car Service Provider

1. Reputation and Reviews

Research customer feedback and online reviews to ensure the provider has a solid reputation. Look for before-and-after photos of their previous projects to gauge their expertise.

2. Range of Services

Select a provider that offers a wide range of customization options, from minor upgrades to full overhauls.

3. Experience and Expertise

Experienced technicians are essential, especially for complex performance enhancements. Ensure the service provider has skilled professionals who can handle various car models and customization needs.

4. Budget and Pricing

Custom car services vary widely in cost, depending on the scope of modifications. Set a clear budget and request detailed quotes to avoid unexpected expenses.

Mistakes to Avoid When Opting for Custom Car Services

1. Overlooking Compatibility

Not all modifications suit every vehicle. Always ensure the upgrades are compatible with your car’s make and model.

2. Ignoring Quality

Cheap parts or inexperienced technicians can lead to subpar results. Invest in high-quality components and trusted service providers.

3. Skipping Legal Considerations

Some modifications, such as window tints or loud exhaust systems, may not comply with local laws. Always check regulations before proceeding.

The Future of Custom Car Services

As technology advances, custom car services are becoming more innovative. Electric vehicle (EV) customization is growing, with options like battery upgrades and unique exterior designs tailored to EVs. Autonomous vehicles are also opening new doors for tech-based personalization.

From sustainable materials to cutting-edge gadgets, the future of customization promises more ways to make cars as unique as their owners.

Conclusion

Car Consultants offer a fantastic opportunity to transform your vehicle into a personalized masterpiece. Whether you’re after a jaw-dropping paint job, luxurious interiors, or a performance boost, the possibilities are endless. With the right service provider and a clear vision, your car can become the ultimate reflection of your personality and lifestyle.