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#automatic gate repair services
lifestyleblogeruk · 1 year
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Enhancing Security and Convenience: Upgrading Your Automatic Gate with Repairs
An automatic gate provides a valuable layer of security and convenience for your property, whether it's a residential or commercial space. However, like any mechanical system, automatic gates require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure optimal performance and extend their lifespan. In this blog, we will explore how upgrading your automatic gate with repairs can enhance both security and convenience.
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1. Strengthening Security:
A properly functioning automatic gate serves as a strong deterrent to potential intruders and unauthorized access. Upgrading your gate with timely repairs ensures that all security features are in optimal working condition. From gate sensors and intercom systems to access control mechanisms, each component plays a crucial role in safeguarding your property.
Repair and Calibration of Gate Sensors: Gate sensors are essential for detecting movement and preventing the gate from closing on objects or people. Regular repairs and calibration of these sensors ensure accurate detection, minimizing the risk of accidents and damage.
Intercom and Access Control Repairs: A malfunctioning intercom or access control system can compromise the security of your property. Upgrading and repairing these communication features enable smooth and secure entry for authorized personnel while denying access to unauthorized individuals.
Enhancing Convenience:
An automatic gate enhances the convenience of accessing your property. Upgrading your gate with repairs ensures that it operates smoothly and consistently, providing a seamless experience for residents, employees, or visitors.
Gate Motor and Operator Repairs: The gate motor and operator are the heart of an automatic gate system. Regular repairs and maintenance of these components ensure reliable gate operation, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and inconveniences.
Remote Control and Mobile App Repairs: Modern automatic gates often come with remote controls or mobile apps for easy operation. Repairing and upgrading these features allow for convenient gate control from the comfort of your vehicle or smartphone.
3. Extending Lifespan:
Routine repairs and proactive maintenance are essential to extend the lifespan of your automatic gate. Upgrading worn-out or damaged components ensures that your gate operates optimally, reducing the risk of costly replacements in the future.
Gate Track and Roller Repairs: The gate track and rollers are subjected to constant stress from frequent opening and closing. Upgrading and repairing these components prevent gate misalignment and reduce wear and tear, prolonging the gate's lifespan.
Weatherproofing and Rust Protection: Weather conditions and rust can take a toll on the gate's structural integrity. Repairs and upgrades involving weatherproofing and rust protection measures preserve the gate's appearance and functionality, especially in harsh environments.
In conclusion, upgrading your automatic gate with repairs not only enhances security but also boosts convenience and extends the gate's lifespan. To ensure these benefits, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from experienced automatic gate repair specialists. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your gate operating at its best, providing you with enhanced security and ease of access for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained automatic gate is an investment that pays off in terms of safety, convenience, and peace of mind.
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ajgateoperators · 2 years
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Efficient and Cost-effective Automatic Gate Repair Services
When your automatic gate breaks down, it can be a major inconvenience and a security risk. But fear not – AJ Gate Operator is here to help! Our team of experts provides reliable and efficient automatic gate repair services, ensuring that your gate is back up and running in no time. With our affordable pricing and exceptional service, you can rest assured that your gate will be functioning smoothly once again. Call now!
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detoautomaticdoors · 5 months
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Benefits of installing Sliding doors for domestic and industrial purposes
Are you looking for high-quality gates that are strong and beautifully designed to install in your renovated home or office? Do you need steel gates that you want to install at the entrance of your medium-sized industry? You can opt for sliding gates made of steel as they are most favored by industries from all over the world.
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if you want doors for your newly constructed home or renovated villa you can opt for sliding doors Dubai that exert minimum physical effort if you operate it manually. You can also opt for automated sliding doors that are operated from a distance using a remote controller. Sliding doors made of wooden frames and glass panels are a great choice for residential, official, and commercial buildings as they appear pretty and need less effort to move sideways.
Benefits of installing sliding doors
Sliding doors actually save space that is required to move conventional doors inside or outside. Sliding doors offer safety as they are made with shatterproof glass and wood steel or aluminum frames.
By installing sliding doors you can save space that you can use for other purposes like putting a rug or placing an accent chair.
By installing sliding doors you can get good air flow while limiting the exposure of your rooms to outside elements. Sliding doors can be moved as per your requirement and you don’t require moving them all the way like you do with conventional doors.
By installing sliding doors you can avoid infections such as Covid and other contagious diseases. These doors do not need you to hold door handles to move them.
 It is greatly convenient to use because it just needs you to push it sideways or move it over the tracks specially created for moving glass doors.
Glass sliding doors with their big frame can let in natural light in huge volumes. You may not need to switch on lights to increase visibility as it will be done naturally by the sliding doors
It is a cost-effective choice because it saves time, money, and power bills.
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You need to rope in the best door installation services in Dubai, UAE to find the right door for your establishment and installation. It is advised to obtain the doors from the manufacturers directly so installation is done the right way. in UAE you will find Deto Automatic Doors, LLC, the best door installers, you can contact them by phone numbers +974 55 598 4736 or send mail to [email protected] and get a free quote.
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fencingandgates · 5 months
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How to Find the Best Electric Gates Contractors in Nearby Locations?
One problem commonly witnessed with electric gates is that due to constant exposure to nature and conditions like dirt, soil, water, grime, etc., they wear away and break down fast. In this situation, an electric gates repair agency is required, and property owners often rely on the installation team's recommendations. This is the ideal approach to some extent, but the problem is that they will recommend only one service provider who offers some commission to the company suggesting their name.
You can avoid this situation by searching the Internet, and we have discussed some tips and tricks related to this in this post.
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HOW TO FIND AN ELECTRIC GATE REPAIR AGENCY NEAR ME?
As mentioned above, you can search on Google for an electric gates repair agency near me or electric gates contractors. You will indeed witness several names to shortlist for future use. Now, it's time to determine the experience needed to offer high-grade electric gates services. You should also shortlist those located nearest to your property.
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HOW WOULD I KNOW THAT I HAVE FOUND THE BEST ELECTRIC GATE REPAIR AGENCY?
You can call the shortlisted agencies and ask some questions to get a better idea of their services and costs. The most common questions are –
WHAT IS THE CALL-OUT CHARGE?
Will the gate repair costs be quoted for once the initial diagnosis is complete?
HOW SOON CAN THE ELECTRIC GATE REPAIRS BE INVESTIGATED AND CARRIED OUT?
Upon getting the answers to these questions, you can move on to the next step - reviewing the testimonials and feedback from previous clients. They are readily available on their website, but you must focus on their social media pages, where clients leave authentic and unedited feedback. This will give you a better understanding of the experience, knowledge, and overall character of electric gates contractors to be hired to repair your electric gates.
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EVALUATE THEIR TECHNICAL EXPERTISE
Repairing electric gates involves many technical tasks and diagnosing several issues. In this situation, your focus should be on the most experienced electric gate contractors, having a team of engineers to involve in all kinds of repair work to complete them successfully.
WHAT SORT OF PROBLEMS CAN THEY FIX?
This is a significant question to ask all the shortlisted fences and gate contractors hired to repair electric gates. They must have expertise in fixing a gate that has stopped working altogether. Apart from this, they should also be experienced enough to remove transmitter-related issues, other than issues like unusual noises or gates not working. They should also be capable of handling issues like obstructed sensors, and the gate stuck in a manual mode or a jerky or a jammed gate.
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sfbay123 · 7 months
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Gate Troubles in SF Bay? We’ve Got You Covered at SF Bay Automatic Gates!
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Is your gate acting up or showing signs of wear and tear? Don’t let a malfunctioning gate compromise your security or curb appeal! At SF Bay Automatic Gates, we specialize in professional gate repair services in the SF Bay area.
Our team of skilled technicians is ready to diagnose and fix any issues your gate may be experiencing. Whether it’s a faulty motor, damaged hinges, electronic malfunctions, or general wear and tear, we’ve got the expertise to get your gate back in top-notch condition.
From San Francisco to Oakland, and all the way to San Jose, we’re proud to serve the entire SF Bay area. No job is too big or too small for our dedicated team. We understand the unique challenges that the local climate and environment can pose to gates, and we tailor our solutions accordingly.
We know the importance of a functioning gate for your property’s security. That’s why we prioritize prompt and reliable service. When you choose SF Bay Automatic Gates, you can trust that your gate repairs will be handled efficiently, allowing you to get back to your routine with minimal disruption.
A well-maintained gate not only enhances the security of your property but also contributes to its overall aesthetics. Our goal is not just to repair your gate but to ensure it operates smoothly and looks great too.
Ready to get your gate back on track? Contact us today for a free estimate. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and schedule a convenient time for a thorough inspection.
SF Bay Automatic Electric Gate Repairs & Install
San Jose ,CA
(669) 281–4177
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powergaragedoor1 · 7 months
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Guidelines For Selecting A Premier Garage Door Repair Provider
Encountering issues with your garage door can be a frustrating experience, and addressing these problems immediately can prevent further damage and unnecessary costs. The market is flooded with numerous Garage Door Service in Houston, making it crucial to select a provider. They not only meets your requirements but also ensures the longevity of your door. This article offers enough knowledge making an informed decision in choosing the right garage door repair service.
Assessing expertise and experience
The proficiency of the technicians is essential when considering a garage door repair service. It's crucial to evaluate the experience level of the team to ensure they possess the essential skills and knowledge to effectively diagnose and rectify issues, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly. If your door is automatic door there checking for the Automatic Gate Opener Houston services becomes vital to open the door without damaging it.
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Importance of Certification
Location plays a vital role in choosing a service provider. Opting for a local, certified garage door repair company like Garage Door Repair in Houston is beneficial as they can respond swiftly to your needs, minimizing travel time. Certification is a proof to their competence and adherence to industry standards, providing you with peace of mind regarding the quality of service.
Clarifying the issue
Before seeking repair services, identifying the specific problem with your garage door is essential. Whether it's a residential or commercial garage door issue, providing a clear description enables the repair team to prepare adequately, ensuring they have the necessary tools and parts on hand. So look for the best Power Garage Door services to get appropriate assistance.
Summary
Selecting the right garage door repair service is a decision that should not be taken lightly. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can ensure that your garage door is in capable hands, maintaining its functionality and security. 
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mintfencingsydney · 9 months
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Get Prompt Fence Repair Services at Affordable Charges
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Fences and gates play a significant role in the safety of a business or home. So, their maintenance is equally important. Many companies are there to offer you fence repair services at affordable charges. Reliable professionals ensure you efficient and prompt service to get your fence repaired.
The gate is an important feature when considering the security of a premise. Currently, Automatic gates installation have gained popularity for their durability and convenient functionality. They run on electric motors and gears and use remotes and sensors.
Why Should You Consult Professionals?
As your fence is responsible for the security of your business and home, keeping them in optimal condition is important. A reputed fence repair service company will provide you services like:-
Backyard fence repair
Pool fencing replacement
Metal fencing replacement
Security gates upgrades
Automatic gates repair
Significance Of Automatic Gate Installation
Better Perimeter Control 
Since you have control over the entry of people into your premises, your property is secured from crimes like theft and vandalism.
Enhanced Security 
Card readers or passcodes can be installed to open an automatic gate. This option is essential when you have a large piece of land or the number of people entering and exiting your property is more. This enables you to have precise control over your boundaries. 
Create Better Impression 
An automatic gate enhances the curb appeal of your property and hence it creates a better impression on your clients.
Convenience 
Automatic gates are easy to handle. They can be opened with a push of a button. You need not put effort into opening or closing the gate.
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Swift Solutions for Secure Entry: Automatic Gate Repair in Elizabethtown
When your automatic gate in Elizabethtown requires repair, trust our expert team for prompt and reliable service. From motor malfunctions to sensor issues, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving a variety of automatic gate problems. Our skilled technicians understand the importance of a secure and functional gate for your property. Experience the convenience of swift and efficient automatic gate repair in Elizabethtown. Contact us today for professional solutions that ensure your gate operates seamlessly, providing the security and ease of access you rely on.
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Garage door services in Sherman Oaks
We provide premium garage door repair and gate opener replacement & installation services in Beverly Hills with top-tier solutions for your security needs. Contact us now for reliable and efficient service. Looking for the best garage door services in Sherman Oaks? We offer quick repairs, access control system, Garage door services in Sherman Oaks, garage door motor installation, lockout and more. We are the best garage door company, offering expert installation, repairs, and more. Call (888) 525-7535.
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Comprehensive Gate Services for Every Property: Trust IRON MEN GATES & DOORS DESIGN for Your Gate Needs
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Introducing IRON MEN GATES & DOORS DESIGN - the ultimate solution for all your gate service needs! Our comprehensive range of services caters to every type of property, be it residential or commercial. With an array of design options to choose from, we guarantee to transform your property's curb appeal while providing top-quality security. We understand that gates play a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property while ensuring safety, and that's precisely why our team of experts is dedicated to providing unparalleled service. So why wait? Trust us for all your gate service needs and elevate your property's style and security to the next level!
IRON MEN GATES & DOORS DESIGN  5520 Wilshire Blvd UNIT 208, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (844) 997-7555
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Surprising Benefits of Garage Door Service Sydney
 Garage Door Service Sydney is the leading provider of professional garage door repairs and maintenance services in the Sydney area. We are a locally owned and operated business that has been serving our clients for over 25 years. Our team of experienced technicians have all the necessary skills, tools, and expertise to provide you with high quality service at an affordable price. For any details, call us on (02) 9698 7533 or (07) 3849 6444
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lifestyleblogeruk · 1 year
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The Top 5 Signs That Your Security Gate Needs Repairs
Security gates serve as the first line of defense for both residential and commercial properties. Their primary purpose is to keep intruders at bay and ensure the safety of the premises. However, like any other mechanical system, security gates are prone to wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance is essential to keep them functioning optimally, but sometimes, repairs become inevitable.
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In this blog post, we will discuss the top five signs that indicate your security gate requires repairs. Identifying these signs early on can save you from potential security breaches and the inconvenience of unexpected gate malfunctions. If you notice any of the following issues, it's time to consider seeking professional security gate maintenance services.
Unusual Noises and Jerky Movements: One of the most apparent signs of a security gate in distress is strange noises and jerky movements during operation. If your gate screeches, grinds, or makes unusual sounds, it might be due to worn-out components or damaged gears. Ignoring these noises can exacerbate the problem, leading to costly repairs in the long run. Similarly, if the gate's movement becomes erratic or it opens and closes abruptly, there could be an issue with the gate motor or automation system.
2. Slow Response to Remote Control Commands: Does your security gate take longer than usual to respond to remote control commands? Delayed responses or intermittent functioning can be indicative of a faulty gate access control system. It could be a problem with the remote control itself, the receiver, or the gate's electronic components. To ensure reliable access control and prevent potential security risks, contact experts in remote control security gate repairs.
Gate Misalignment and Sagging: Over time, the weight and frequent movements of the gate can cause misalignment or sagging issues. Misaligned gates may have difficulty closing properly, leaving gaps that compromise security. Sagging gates, on the other hand, exert unnecessary strain on the hinges and motor, potentially leading to more severe damages. Residential and commercial security gate services can realign the gate and address any structural issues to restore its proper functionality.
4. Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers: An automatic security gate that frequently trips the circuit breakers might be facing power supply problems or an electrical issue. It could result from damaged wiring, faulty components, or security gate motor replacement requirements. Avoid resetting the circuit breakers repeatedly, as it might lead to further complications. Instead, contact professionals in emergency security gate repairs to diagnose and resolve the root cause of the issue.
Visible Signs of Wear and Rust: Regularly inspect your security gate for visible signs of wear, corrosion, or rust. Steel and iron security gates are susceptible to rust, especially in humid or coastal environments. Rust can weaken the structure, affecting the gate's overall integrity. Additionally, worn-out parts, such as hinges, tracks, and rollers, can hinder smooth gate operation. Engage in proactive maintenance, and if needed, seek iron security gate maintenance to address rust and prevent further deterioration.
In conclusion, security gate repairs are not to be taken lightly, as a malfunctioning gate can compromise the safety of your property and its occupants. Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your security gate, but when signs of trouble arise, prompt action is crucial. Whether it's residential or commercial security gate services, emergency repairs, or gate access control fixes, investing in professional assistance ensures a well-functioning and secure gate for your peace of mind. Contact us!
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ajgateoperators · 2 years
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What You Should Know Before Installing an Automatic Gate?
Gates have remained an important part of the home structure since ancient times. They are one of the first things visitors notice when visiting your property. In modern times, they are a great tool to improve the aesthetics, functionality, and security of a property.
Read more visit at: https://www.zupyak.com/p/3412588/t/what-you-should-know-before-installing-an-automatic-gate
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tabletoptrinketsbyjj · 6 months
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Trinkets, Books, 13: An eclectic library of dusty tomes, fictional textbooks, pocketbooks, paperbacks, hardcovers, booklets, leaflets and magical manuals. Paper leaves and the binding surrounding them can help define a character, kick off a subplot, fuel a fetch quest or simply serve as a generic macguffin. Commonly seen in video games such as Baldur’s Gate, Neverwinter Nights, World of Warcraft and Skyrim, book items are a way to subtly world build while still handing out sellable loot. A wizard has a spellbook, a cleric has a holy text and now you have a trinket list.
A pulpy horror book filled with short stories made to terrify adolescents and thrill young adults. A creature who reads the book suffers from a Random Nightmare later the next time they sleep.
A large reference book on the subject of minted coinage within the realm. The top of each page has an illustration of both sides of a coin from a rubbing of the original, lovingly and delicately inked. Below is everything anyone could possibly want to know about the coin: number of dies in the designs, the date each went into service, the date each was taken out and destroyed, dates of repairs and re-engravings on each, quantities of each kind of coin struck. There is even a statement about whether or not there are known counterfeits. According the inside cover, the tome belongs to the Royal Assay of the city of TunFaire in the kingdom of Karenta.
A brand new copy of “Volo's Guide to What to Expect When You’re Expecting” with a couple of pages dog-eared in and “Congratulations!” written on the inside cover.
On the Sending Out of the Soul: An eight-page pamphlet on astral projection. The first seven pages of the pamphlet contain vague mystic writing; however, the eighth page details a formula for effecting astral travel. Among the required ingredients are a brazier and a mild hallucinogenic herb. The formula is always successful but has an unforeseen side effect: it invokes the horrid Outer God the Hydra. Knowledgeable PC’s are aware that the pamphlet first appeared a few generations ago and circulated among occult groups. Most copies were destroyed in the wake of a series of grisly murders.
Dictionnaire Infernal: A full description of the hierarchies of demons. This edition includes sixty-nine illustrations of demons by Louis Le Breton a skilled warlock, infamous for trading his soul for legendary artistic talent rather than arcane power or material wealth.
A journeyman’s guide to the proper practices of the guild who oversees the use of Random Artisan Tools. The travel volume includes how to care for your tools and how to interact with other crafters to seek replacement tools and have worn ones maintained. Other chapters detail acceptable prices for goods sold and services rendered along with advice on any specific ethical concerns the guild may have on trading. Most of the book contains descriptions and diagrams on how to perform basic tasks with the tools to the guild’s standards.
A small book, entitled "The Torrid Affair of Knight Gawain,". When placed on its spine it automatically falls open to particularly risqué page.
A personal journal owned by a psychiatrist who was studying the concept of nightmares and their metaphysical properties. The doctor recorded dozens of firsthand accounts of her patient’s slumbering terrors within this volume as well as notes on the patients themselves and how the dreams affected them. A person who peruses the journal for more than a few minutes suffers from a Random Nightmare the next time they sleep. Upon waking they feel compelled to document their experience on one of the blank pages left near the end of the book.
Alchemy of the Flesh: A dark green tome describing how to use a plethora of humanoid viscera and organs to enhance standard potion brewing techniques.
Tome Of The Endless Tale: A small, worn book with fanciful creatures or locales on battered leather covers, the tome’s pages fill with serialized stories that engage and distract the reader. The Tome focuses on a specific genre (See Note) but the stories crafted within the pages are unique to each reader, tailored by the magic from their own imagination and so vibrant that the book’s tales seem to come to life in the mind’s eye. Once per day, the reader can speak the command word written on the book's inside cover to fill its its pages with a serial story tailored to the speaker. This story typically takes 1 hour to read, continuing from where the last tale completed. ---Note: The DM can choose a genre or roll at random; 1, Adventure 2, Romance 3, Mystery / Crime 4, Horror 5, Thriller / Suspense 6, Fantasy 7, Science Fiction 8, Historical fiction.
—Click Here to be directed to the Hotlinks To All Tables post, which provides (As you might have guessed) convenient links to all of the loot and resource tables this blog has.
—Click Here for additional Book Descriptions to give these objects even more personality.
—Note: The previous 10 items are repeated for easier rolling on a d100.
A pulpy horror book filled with short stories made to terrify adolescents and thrill young adults. A creature who reads the book suffers from a Random Nightmare later the next time they sleep.
A large reference book on the subject of minted coinage within the realm. The top of each page has an illustration of both sides of a coin from a rubbing of the original, lovingly and delicately inked. Below is everything anyone could possibly want to know about the coin: number of dies in the designs, the date each went into service, the date each was taken out and destroyed, dates of repairs and re-engravings on each, quantities of each kind of coin struck. There is even a statement about whether or not there are known counterfeits. According the inside cover, the tome belongs to the Royal Assay of the city of TunFaire in the kingdom of Karenta.
A brand new copy of “Volo's Guide to What to Expect When You’re Expecting” with a couple of pages dog-eared in and “Congratulations!” written on the inside cover.
On the Sending Out of the Soul: An eight-page pamphlet on astral projection. The first seven pages of the pamphlet contain vague mystic writing; however, the eighth page details a formula for effecting astral travel. Among the required ingredients are a brazier and a mild hallucinogenic herb. The formula is always successful but has an unforeseen side effect: it invokes the horrid Outer God the Hydra. Knowledgeable PC’s are aware that the pamphlet first appeared a few generations ago and circulated among occult groups. Most copies were destroyed in the wake of a series of grisly murders.
Dictionnaire Infernal: A full description of the hierarchies of demons. This edition includes sixty-nine illustrations of demons by Louis Le Breton a skilled warlock, infamous for trading his soul for legendary artistic talent rather than arcane power or material wealth.
A journeyman’s guide to the proper practices of the guild who oversees the use of Random Artisan Tools. The travel volume includes how to care for your tools and how to interact with other crafters to seek replacement tools and have worn ones maintained. Other chapters detail acceptable prices for goods sold and services rendered along with advice on any specific ethical concerns the guild may have on trading. Most of the book contains descriptions and diagrams on how to perform basic tasks with the tools to the guild’s standards.
A small book, entitled "The Torrid Affair of Knight Gawain,". When placed on its spine it automatically falls open to particularly risqué page.
A personal journal owned by a psychiatrist who was studying the concept of nightmares and their metaphysical properties. The doctor recorded dozens of firsthand accounts of her patient’s slumbering terrors within this volume as well as notes on the patients themselves and how the dreams affected them. A person who peruses the journal for more than a few minutes suffers from a Random Nightmare the next time they sleep. Upon waking they feel compelled to document their experience on one of the blank pages left near the end of the book.
Alchemy of the Flesh: A dark green tome describing how to use a plethora of humanoid viscera and organs to enhance standard potion brewing techniques.
Tome Of The Endless Tale: A small, worn book with fanciful creatures or locales on battered leather covers, the tome’s pages fill with serialized stories that engage and distract the reader. The Tome focuses on a specific genre (See Note) but the stories crafted within the pages are unique to each reader, tailored by the magic from their own imagination and so vibrant that the book’s tales seem to come to life in the mind’s eye. Once per day, the reader can speak the command word written on the book's inside cover to fill its its pages with a serial story tailored to the speaker. This story typically takes 1 hour to read, continuing from where the last tale completed. ---Note: The DM can choose a genre or roll at random; 1, Adventure 2, Romance 3, Mystery / Crime 4, Horror 5, Thriller / Suspense 6, Fantasy 7, Science Fiction 8, Historical fiction.
A cloth-bound book of short stories by famous pulp novelist Cissifin Judeel. The volume is in excellent physical condition.
A bound section that includes chapters six, seven, and nine of some kind of book on mechanical engineering, seemingly torn from a larger work. They describe in enormous detail how to construct an intricate clockwork mechanism, but what it’s supposed to do is left unclear – and, besides, with chapter eight missing you wouldn’t know how to build one of the most important parts…
A cookbook, containing stunningly delicious recipes which, unfortunately, require extraordinarily rare and hard to find ingredients to make. It is no doubt someone's life’s ambition to cook and eat all of them at least once.
An anonymous epic poem about the Brass Spear Prince, full of stirring speeches and descriptions of battle scenes. For many noble travellers, this inspiring story is the reason why they became an adventurer in the first place.
An old bestiary, full of detailed information about monsters and magical beasts. Its sources appear to be approximately one-third hard evidence, one-third rumour or hearsay, and one-third the author's own fevered imagination, with no indication in the text as to which is which. It's information could easily save your life one day if you can only work out which parts of it are actually true...
A strange book whose pages are thin, blank stone tablets bound with knotted leather cords. Skeletons and zombies bow and grovel in the presence of the book.
Phoenix Breviary: A hand-size book bound in what appears to be black ostrich hide. Its pages are empty. Placed in a fire, the book will be unharmed and reveal the canonical hours of a banned cult for as long as it is surrounded by flame. Anything written in it will disappear until revealed similarly.
A joke book, full of genuinely hilarious (If rather mean-spirited) jokes. There are enough one liners alone for hours of belly-laughs and the text would be extremely valued to a jester or entertainer.
An anonymous journal, which records in obsessive detail the suspicious activities of a variety of seemingly-innocuous local citizens, whom the author seems to have been keeping under close observation. Either he was totally paranoid, or they are engaged in some kind of conspiracy. Maybe both.
An instruction manual, which describes in lunatic detail how to build a giant mechanical owl in order to further the cause of righteousness in the land. (The causal relationship between these two things is not made clear.) Chapters 3 through 9, which cover the construction of the owl’s internal mechanisms, have been ripped out.
A book of abstruse speculative philosophy, heavily annotated by some previous student. The annotations to the early chapters are detailed and lucid, but as the book goes on they grow increasingly incoherent, finally lapsing into ravings about a Beast and a City made of Red Steel. Due to the quantity of crazy annotations on its final pages, the last sections of the book are effectively illegible. You've never seen another copy.
An antiquarian manuscript whose author attempts, from the surviving literary and numismatic evidence, to deduce where the major strongholds of the local sorcerer-kings were back in the Age of Wonders. If she’s right, then there are at least three in the area which have been completely forgotten about, one of which is now buried under the streets of a major city…
The memoirs of a famous explorer, describing his many travels. The last chapter describes his plans for his final expedition, from which he never returned. But if the reader can work out where he went wrong, then maybe they'll have better luck…
A catalogue of birds found in this and adjacent kingdoms. Holding the book makes you want to obsessively tick off every species you manage to spot. A former owner of the book seems to have ticked off far more of the really rare ones than you, which causes oddly strong feeling of jealousy. One day, you will surpass him!
A child's sketchbook. On every page that isn't just unintelligible scribbling is a horrific monster.
A book of rather moving and helpfully non-specific love poetry. Memorize some of it for next time you need to persuade someone just how much you adore them!
A notebook in which someone has recorded, in great detail, the gastronomic preferences of a whole range of important and powerful people who live in a nearby large city. Very handy if you want to make a good impression - or to set someone else up to make a bad one!
An extremely spicy erotic novel about the life and loves of a famous courtesan. You keep it with you for, um, further research purposes.
A book of woodcut illustrations, more than a century old, depicting various fantastical monsters. One of them shows a particularly grotesque many-tentacled beastie fighting with a figure in spiked armour, who (Unlike every other figure in the book) has a string of nonsense words engraved beneath them. Disturbingly, these words form an anagram of one of the PC's names.
A book of heretical, politically seditious, and intermittently obscene drinking songs, complete with musical scores. Owning it is highly illegal, but you can’t bear to part with it: after all, it might well be the only copy which survived the purge…
A children's story book with a pressed faerie sprite between the pages...
An engrossing and well-written mystery novel: it's not very deep or clever, but pick it up and you'll soon be wondering where the last six hours went. Handy if you need someone to be distracted without realizing it.
Naga Naga Yo Fraga Blaga: A book whose cover is designed to look as if it was made from green scales, and its pages have golden edges. The volume talks at great length about an ancient race of serpentine creatures of great intellect and natural mastery of sorcery.
Of Gospels and Prophets: A stark white leather cover with gold filigree encompasses this religious reference book. The book does not delve deeply into any specific topic, rather approaches the “mile wide, inch deep” style with no more than 3-5 sentences on any of its entries.
Demozain: A book written by a dozen ur-priests. It makes no attempt to hide the ritual that would summon a sentient black hole to consume a world, but between the lines it reveals secrets of where the gods truly get their power.
A palm-sized notebook that always has at least one more blank page.
A blank spellbook bound in scarred wyvern hide.
Libro Venenum: A vile text filled with pages of aged papyrus and wrapped in dried lizard hide. Translated it proclaims to be the Book (of) Poisons and must be handled with absolute care. The reader is insight into the long-forgotten art of toxic magic, practised primarily by hags.
Folio Malevolence: A profane book whose spine is crafted from the bones of tormented fairies. The pages are all exposed with no actual cover and emit a foul odor. Upon close examination one can see skin has been stretched and matted onto the parchment. The runes on these pages make the reader feel uneasy and waves of hatred flow over them. Good aligned characters will feel immediate aversion to the text. The text itself orders the reader to let malevolence overwhelm then and to lead a life of malice and constant all-consuming rage at the world and everything in it.
A diary that begins quite normal, even boring, but becomes increasingly nonsensical, and the final few pages are indecipherable scrawlings.
A heavy book titled “The Many Faces of Perun”. Dozens of flowers are pressed between its pages.
Opuscule Covetous: A small notebook created with haphazard pieces of vellum tied together with gold wire. If the pages are spread out they appear to be covered in numbered pictures. Anyone who puts the pages in the correct order will see the drawings magically animate. The story they show will be capturing and include scenes of immense wealth and decadence. Those viewing will be intoxicated with avarice and immediately desire the treasures presented in the story. Unbeknownst to the cursed readers this is an elaborate trap set by a witch. What appear to be treasures are actually items the witch herself desires but cannot obtain. Examples would be a sacred holy relic, a newborn child or perhaps a lock of hair from a person pure of heart. No matter what the item they will always appear as something else to the afflicted character. The curse will cease once one or all of the items are obtained and presented to the witch.
A bound album of various portraits and sketches of individual local people and families. Someone went through and meticulously clipped out the heads of all the people in the pictures, leaving the rest of the scenes intact.
A ledger listing quantities and types of Random Humanoid Race bones and teeth along with dates, costs, and prices of sales and purchasing.
A book of anatomy with detailed drawings on xenomorphic creatures completely alien to this plane of existence.
A book of genealogical research of a prominent family in the nearby city, mostly consisting of a bound collection of public announcement posters and firsthand accounts of the local historical society.
The Parchments of Pnom: A manuscript written by Hyperborea's leading genealogist and soothsayer. It is written in the "Elder Script" of that land and contains a detailed account of the lineage of the Hyperborean gods, most notably Tsathoggua.
A beginner’s guide for people learning to play the Random Musical Instrument. The slim volume includes diagrams with all the parts of the instrument along with instructions for proper maintenance and care. Past the introduction the book contains the basics of how to play, along with a dozen simple songs that even someone who is unskilled in the performing arts could learn to play by reading the book and putting in a few weeks of regular practice.
A lengthy tome that boasts as its title “A complete history of the Random Humanoid Species”. The thick tome is dense with small, fine handwriting and goes into impressive (If dry) detail on the known origins of the people along with the high and lows of their past.
A military historical reference book focusing on the construction, maintenance and historical and modern use of the Random Weapon as it pertains to various forms of warfare.
Book of Dzyan: This work is an ancient text from a far away land, which contains “unwelcome truths”—cosmic revelations inimical to any human mind, which the Book tries to reconcile. As such, it describes accounts of mental and physical rites which are protective to mortals, as well as otherworldly threats and how to deal with them. Anyone who casts bard spells can research the spell contrary melody in this book to learn it in place of a 5th-level spell known.
A child’s sketchbook that features named stick figures of various people in a dozen different hands. The cover is marked with a surprisingly ornate rune, almost beautiful, though reading it makes one’s eyes droop.
De Vermis Mysteriis: An eldritch and bizarre spellbook, written by Ludvig Prinn, an ancient alchemist and necromancer who was burnt alive as punishments for his crimes against nature. Its pages are full of spells and rituals that summon strange entities, familiars, and creatures from beyond space and time. It also has a number of rituals for contacting and dealing with Great Old Ones, Outer Gods, and their minions.
A tiny leather bound book that contains a piece of writing such as a story, a poem, a manuscript, or a recipe. Each day, a new piece of writing magically replaces the previous one.
A cookbook, heavily bookmarked and written on, with pictures to accompany each recipe in the book. Licking the pictures allows you to find out how each dish tastes. Writing new ingredients in the recipes alters how the pictures taste. The back of the cookbook has empty pages to allow people to write down their own custom recipes. A few of the pages already have recipes written on them, some of which sound absolutely revolting.
A small novel, in which its 100 pages are used to describe a pebble. It consists of a single run-on sentence, and the description is often repeated throughout the book.
A leather bound book that bursts into flames when opened and extinguishes itself when closed. The book itself is completely fireproof.
A translation manual that teaches the basics for a long lost language. The guide assists the reader in translating basic words and phrases from the lost language into a commonly known language. This manual has significant values in archeological and research circles.
A bible that contains the founding texts of a now extinct religion that was wiped out long ago. This tome chronicles the origins of a murderous and wild sect that broke off from a popular, but now dead, religion. It gives notes on famous individuals this sect claims to have killed, their method in doing so and gives small insight into where more information about this sect may be.
A humble prayer-book bound in homespun cloth. Even with all your knowledge and sophistication, these simple hymns still have an almost supernatural power to soothe your troubled mind.
The Book of The Keeper of The World: A yellow book that is almost as bright as the sun itself. A bloody skeleton is on the cover with a text in an unreadable arcane language, presumably the title. Eating pages of this makes something in the world just disappear out of everyone's mind, a nothingness filling the place it used to be.
A reprint of a banned book, the last copy thought destroyed decades ago.
A ratty journal overflowing with loose sheets of yellowed paper. They are filled with maddened scrawl and diagrams and calculations and degenerate ranting.
A heavy book filled with Holy Scripture from the Loregiver and proclamations of Fate.
A holy text containing the sacred oaths of the first paladins from each paladin order in the multiverse, listing those of Good alignment as examples to strive for while warning against falling to the dark temptations of those who made their oaths for personal gain or other dark desires.
A book containing a list of artifacts designed for dark purposes, primarily those associated with Evil deities, as well as instructions on how to destroy these items. Several items on this list have already been crossed off, presumably destroyed by previous holders of this book.
A large tome that contains what is likely the largest repository of knowledge on healing salves in existence. It lists out materials, costs, where to find each ingredient, and how to combine these ingredients. There is virtually no ailment that cannot be cured by at least one of these restorative mixtures should the text prove accurate.
A small prayerbook that contains a single long incantation that can be used to contact a celestial who specializes in helping unfortunate souls tricked into a contract with a devil find a way out of their unfair bargains.
Book of Ashur: An arcane tome, bound in ancient dragon hide that contains much wisdom on the conjuring and subjugation of spells.
Liber Noctus: A decrepit tome that bristles with dark secrets and eldritch powers. Reading from the grimoire summons dark thoughts and grim deeds.
A blessed tome containing tales of ancient valour, glory, and self-sacrifice are bound to inspire those of noble heart to greater deeds.
A large book, bound in human skin according to the note tied to it, supposedly it was owned by an ancient necromancer during the age of thunder but its impossible to open as the spirits bound by it will lash out at the carrier. At the bottom it reads that it's currently on loan from Candlekeep.
A thick, heavy leather-bound book that contains illustrations and descriptions of over 3000 different kind of animals, plants, fungi, and minerals that can be used as alchemical ingredients, and how to safely collect, preserve, and store them. It was written by a renowned dark elf alchemist and explorer in the north lands. He spent decades studying and experimenting with the various creatures and plants that inhabit that environment, and compiled his findings and recipes in this book.
A worn-out leather book that has a map of the southern land on its cover. It contains detailed descriptions and directions on how to find and harvest rare and expensive alchemical ingredients that grow in remote, dangerous or hidden locations in the southern land.
A green book that has a dwarven hammer as symbol on its cover. It contains detailed secret information on how to use dwarven alchemy, with a specialized focus on creating oils and elixirs to mix into liquid metal alloys during the forging of weapons and armor.
An old yellowish book that has an elegant symbol on its cover. It was written by a legendary elven alchemist who mastered the art of creating healing potions, over the course of more than half a millennia of dedicated focus.
A collection of slim volumes on a variety of topics, including a registry of the nobility, City Watch commanders, and other notable citizens. Blank pages, a vial of ink, a pen. A number of interesting maps.
A single tome that is a combined multi-volumed summa of unified theory of arcane & divine magic, mechanical physics, psionics, and the cosmos.
An old, small, leather-bound, time-worn book with a goat’s head tooled into its cover. The leather is badly foxed and the pages are barely readable. If studied carefully it seems to be the journal of a fiendish cult.
A sketchbook half-filled with disturbingly accurate anatomical studies of various people, the copper plates that cover it etched with a pleasingly abstract rendering of a human heart.
A strange esoteric translation manual that teaches the basics for a long lost language. The guide assists the reader in translating basic words and phrases from the lost language into a commonly known language. This manual has significant values in archeological and research circles.
A hand-written guide by a purportedly self-taught monk on how to manifest and nurture ki powers. Although the information is not grounded in traditional aesthetic principals, anyone with knowledge of ki will recognize some validity to the methods being discussed. It is from an unknown author.
A religious text of an extinct cult that was wiped out long ago. This tome chronicles the origins of a murderous and wild sect that broke off from a popular, but now dead, religion. It gives notes on famous individuals this sect claims to have killed, their method in doing so and gives small insight into where more information about this sect may be.
A bound set of written texts, recording the beliefs of a famous lone wanderer and philosopher. The individual is well-known throughout the land for his beliefs and exploits but it was previously unknown that he had personally committed any of these things down on writing.
A book of spells with particularly elaborate verbal components written in an unknown but important-looking script. Arcane PC's can determine that only one or two minor spells actually work. Extremely close inspection will reveal that the rest of the "incantations" and "magic words" are actually disguised and encoded reports from a deep-cover spy
A worn, leather-bound journal filled with notes and sketches, offering insights into the daily life of its previous owner. There are many blank pages. Reading from the journal causes miniature illusions to appear for others showing the details of the event written, whether truthful or fanciful.
An alchemical codex containing the formulae for various poisons.
A dusty, ancient tome filled with arcane knowledge and forbidden secrets, written in a strange serpentine language and illuminated with intricate flowing illustrations.
A notebook that contains private notes from a psychiatrist about a patient. The first two pages are banal and clinical; by the fifth, they are inscrutable ramblings.
An identifiable book with a dozen assorted silver nails impaling it. The nails look disorderly and haphazardly hammered, with many bent in strange angles. The book is constantly wet, and the title is illegible.
An arcane spellbook that doesn’t seem to have belonged to a single wizard, bearing many different hands and styles across undoubtedly centuries. Many pages are damaged, arcane scribblings made illegible by time and deterioration. On the pages that remain, it seems that many of the spells appear modified in some way.
A well-worn and obviously fake booklet on how to talk to ghosts.
A bound journal filled with sketches of plants and animals.
A medical journal written in a dead language. It's filled with diagrams and drawings of medical dissections of inhuman alien creatures.
The Book of Fate's Mercies: A book that details incidents where people were saved from death by random chance. For example, a barking dog caused someone to walk just a little quicker down the street, which moved them out of the path of a stampeding horse. The last story in the book is about you, potentially causing you to be extremely aware and reactive but utterly paranoid and agoraphobic.
An inconspicuous diary of a young girl named Fyla. At a young age Fyla's talents allowed her to see into the abyss and corrupted her mind. She wrote in detail about the monsters under her bed and her fears of what awaited her when they would finally come for her on her 18th birthday.
The Book of Wisdom: A tome that contains a collection of sayings, stories, poems, and hymns from every known culture, religion, and philosophy. New entries appear at random, as new Wisdoms are collected and recorded by other disciples carrying a copy of the Book of Wisdom.
A spellbook made from high quality blank parchment is covered in tiny runes. When one of these small inscriptions is pressed the parchment changes color.
Tome Of The Spellblade: A soft-covered leather bound treatise containing writings describing, in the most basic terms possible, methods of magical fighting. Even so, the material is fairly dense and requires definition and reiteration of various terms and ideas. Fortunately, it also contains many detailed diagrams.
Fearful Codex of Ancient Wisdom: A weighty volume bound in pale, scaled leather of unknown origin. This magical tome contains a wealth of knowledge both mundane and esoteric, and is inhabited by an archival spirit that will direct the reader to their desired content on request. Unfortunately, the spirit has undergone a great deal of trauma over the millennia and the "fearful" part of the title is now literal. Attempting to simply open the codex and read normally will reveal nothing but blank pages, with perhaps a fleeting glimpse of text slithering away to pages deeper in the book. Only through persuasion can you access the codex. The book has definite dislikes, some of which follow: Being read by firelight is terrifying - paper burns! Natural light is better, but being read outside in the weather is undignified and risky. Magical illumination is best, preferably indoors and someplace quiet. Any kind of liquid nearby is alarming - ink runs and paper is ruined! Don't even think about eating while you peruse the codex. The book doesn't really like to travel either and would prefer to tucked away safely in a library somewhere when not in use. It enjoys the company of other books but isn't fond of other magical tomes, even non-sentient ones. It's also really, really phobic about the number eight, and invariably uses constructions like "two cubed" or "nine less one" in its own text when needed.
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sfbay123 · 7 months
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mariacallous · 6 months
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The ballistic missile hit the Rubymar on the evening of February 18. For months, the cargo ship had been shuttling around the Arabian Sea, uneventfully calling at local ports. But now, taking on water in the bottleneck of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, its two dozen crew issued an urgent call for help and prepared to abandon ship.
Over the next two weeks—while the crew were ashore—the “ghost ship” took on a life of its own. Carried by currents and pushed along by the wind, the 171-meter-long, 27-meter-wide Rubymar drifted approximately 30 nautical miles north, where it finally sank—becoming the most high-profile wreckage during a months-long barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The attacks have upended global shipping.
But the Rubymar wasn’t the only casualty. During its final journey, three internet cables laid on the seafloor in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait were damaged. The drop in connectivity impacted millions of people, from nearby East Africa to thousands of miles away in Vietnam. It’s believed the ship’s trailing anchor may have broken the cables while it drifted. The Rubymar also took 21,000 metric tons of fertilizer to its watery grave—a potential environmental disaster in waiting.
An analysis from WIRED—based on satellite imagery, interviews with maritime experts, and new internet connectivity data showing the cables went offline within minutes of each other—tracks the last movements of the doomed ship. While our analysis cannot definitively show that the anchor caused the damage to the crucial internet cables—that can only be determined by an upcoming repair mission—multiple experts conclude it is the most likely scenario.
The damage to the internet cables comes when the security of subsea infrastructure—including internet cables and energy pipelines—has catapulted up countries’ priorities. Politicians have become increasingly concerned about the critical infrastructure since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022 and a subsequent string of potential sabotage, including the Nord Stream pipeline explosions. As Houthi weapons keep hitting ships in the Red Sea region, there are worries the Rubymar may not be the last shipwreck.
The Rubymar’s official trail goes cold on February 18. At 8 pm local time, reports emerged that a ship in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which is also known as the Gate of Tears or the Gate of Grief, had been attacked. Two anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired from “Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist-controlled areas of Yemen,” US Central Command said. Ninety minutes after the warnings arrived, at around 9:30 pm, the Rubymar broadcast its final location using the automatic identification system (AIS), a GPS-like positioning system used to track ships.
As water started pouring into the hull, engine room, and machinery room, the crew’s distress call was answered by the Lobivia—a nearby container ship—and a US-led coalition warship. By 1:57 am on February 19, the crew was reported safe. That afternoon, the 11 Syrians, six Egyptians, three Indians, and four Filipinos who were on board arrived at the Port of Djibouti. “We do not know the coordinates of Rubymar,” Djibouti’s port authority posted on X.
Satellite images picked up the Rubymar, its path illuminated by an oil slick, two days later, on February 20. Although the crew dropped the ship’s anchor during the rescue, the ship drifted north, further up the strait in the direction of the Red Sea.
For three days, satellite photos show, the vessel largely stayed in place thanks to low winds and weak currents. Then, on February 22, satellite images show peculiar circular wave patterns hitting the ship, as seen in the image below. One former naval intelligence analyst familiar with the images, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, says this could be a sign the anchor may have come loose. One image, they say, appears to show an unidentified object, which could be a small boat, nearby.
Both the wind and currents picked up on February 23, when the ship began drifting for a second time, says Robert Parkington, an intelligence analyst with geospatial analysis firm Geollect. “As wind increases, as current increases, that chance for movement gets so much higher,” says Parkington, who monitored the Rubymar’s movements with data from satellite technology firm Spire Global. “Even a small breeze can have an impact on where the vessel’s moving.”
More than 550 internet cables run along the ocean floors and connect the world. They link continents and economies, beaming everything from Zoom calls to financial transactions every millisecond. Twelve of the cables run through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, says Alan Mauldin, research director at telecom research firm TeleGeography. “These cables vary massively in their age, also in their capacities,” Mauldin explains. The region is a crucial, but vulnerable, choke point.
While the Rubymar was drifting, three cables were damaged: the Seacom/Tata cable, a 15,000-kilometer-long wire running the length of East Africa and also connecting it to India; the Asia Africa Europe-1 (AAE-1), which snakes 25,000 kilometers and links Europe to East Asia; and the Europe India Gateway (EIG), made of 15,000 kilometers of cable and joining India with the United Kingdom.
The Seacom cable went down at 9:46 am on February 24, according to new analysis shared exclusively with WIRED by Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at the web monitoring firm Kentik. Five minutes later, at around 9:51 am, the AAE-1 cable dropped offline. Madory says the third damaged cable, EIG, was already mostly offline following a separate fault elsewhere. A telecom industry notice seen by WIRED confirms the three faults and says this was the EIG’s second. The notice says the damage is located around 30 kilometers away from where the cables land in Djibouti and are at depths of around 150 meters.
To determine when the cables lost connectivity, Madory examined internet traffic and routing data from multiple networks. For instance, a network linked to Equity Bank Tanzania, the analysis shows, lost connectivity from the Seacom cable; moments later, it was impacted by the AAE-1 damage. The two clusters of outages impacted countries in East Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Mozambique, Madory says. But they also had an impact thousands of miles away in Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore. “The loss of these submarine cables disrupted internet service for millions of people,” he says. “While service providers in the affected countries have shifted to using the remaining cables, there exists a loss of overall capacity.” The analysis matches when the Seacom cable went offline, says Prenesh Padayachee, the company’s chief digital officer. Both AAE and EIG cables are owned by consortiums of companies, which did not respond to requests for comment.
The telecom industry builds backups into its systems to account for disruptions—and the approach mostly works. When one cable goes offline, traffic is sent via other routes. “Connectivity just went away,” says Thomas King, the chief technology officer of German-based internet exchange DE-CIX, which used the AAE-1 cables. “The issue was detected automatically. Rerouting happens also automatically,” King says. Other firms sent data on different paths around the world.
In the days after damage to the cables first emerged, one unconfirmed press report claimed Houthi rebels could have sabotaged the cables. There has been no public evidence to support this. Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute think tank who has been monitoring the region, says it is most likely that the Rubymar damaged the cables, but Houthi sabotage should not be entirely ruled out, as “highly trained” divers could reach the cables’ depths. Telecom firms have reported fears about Houthi damage to cables, while Houthi spokespeople have repeatedly denied responsibility for the disruptions.
“We don’t even know if the cable is fully broken yet,” Padayachee says. “All we know is that the cable is damaged to a level where we’ve lost comms.” It could have been cut, or even dragged along the seabed and bent so light signals cannot pass through the cable, he says.
Many in the marine and cable industry have turned toward the Rubymar’s drift as the likely cause for the outage. Padayachee says it is the most “plausible” scenario given the ship’s predicted drifting speed. “If you work out the distance between the two cables that roughly relates to the same sort of timeframe as to when one cable will be affected to when the other cable will be affected,” the timing makes sense, he says, adding that the cables are 700 to 1,000 meters apart.
Anchor damage, alongside earthquakes and landslides, is one of the most common ways subsea internet cables are disrupted. For instance, multiple cables in the Red Sea region were damaged by a ship dragging its anchor in 2012. There are also several types of anchor, explain William Coombs and Michael Brown, professors at Durham University and the University of Dundee, respectively, who are researching the dynamics of anchors and how they can damage underwater cables. Some anchors sit on the seabed while others dig into the ground, they say. “If the soil type is not right, and the cable has quite shallow burial or it is on the seabed, you are going to catch it if your anchor starts to drag,” Brown says.
“Considering the timings of when outages were reported, considering the rough location of where those cables are known to be, and considering where we believe to be the location of the Rubymar, I would say that there is a likely possibility that the anchor did cause the damage,” says Parkington of Geollect.
The Rubymar finally sank on March 2. Videos reportedly taken inside the ship, gathered by Saudi state-owned news organization Al Arabiya English, show water gushing into the ship after the missile strike. As the Rubymar took on more water and partially submerged, experts say, its drifting likely slowed and eventually brought it to a complete stop.
While the ship has finished its journey, the three internet cables will remain offline for some time. Padayachee, from Seacom, says that the Yemeni government is likely to approve permits for the company’s repair plans in the next couple of weeks, with repairs to all three damaged cables possibly starting later in April.
Padayachee says that additional security measures are being put in place for the operation, but the repair work itself should be relatively straightforward. The repairs are taking place in water only a couple of hundred meters deep—shallow compared to other cases where cables are more than a mile deep. When the cables are pulled out of the water by the repair crew, it should be possible to say whether the cuts were caused by the anchor or deliberately.
The Rubymar presents one potential final challenge: Padayachee says the location of the cable damage is believed to be around one or two miles away from where the ship sank. “It doesn’t look like it will affect anything in the repair operation,” he says. “It could change by the time they get there: The vessel may have moved or, in fact, the vessel may have broken up and parts of it moved around.” The US Central Command has said the Rubymar also presents a “subsurface impact risk to other ships.”
The Houthi’s missile launches, meanwhile, don’t look like they will stop any time soon. Other ships have been damaged; lives have been lost, and those factors will impact repairs. “It's not something you usually see: trying to have a cable ship into those waters, recover the cable, make a repair, and then be able to return to port. It's a long process. It’s risky,” says Mauldin, from TeleGeography. The risk, for other internet cables, is a repeat of the Rubymar. “It is not out of the question,” Madory concludes in his analysis, “that we could have another vessel, struck by a missile, inadvertently cut another submarine cable.”
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