#loop switcher

[fuzzkaizer]

fleet ulalala

loop switcher, housed in an amp-footswitch

[ms-demeanor]

what. what happens when you plug both ends of an ethernet cable into a switcher?

It creates a loop where the traffic that the switch is sending out gets redirected back into the switch and then tries to send out and then goes back into the switch and then tries to send out and then goes back into the switch and eventually someone figures out that someone plugged the network into itself and has to track down where that happened and everyone gets real mad.

It's the kind of thing that you have to plan carefully to avoid when you're building networks and network architects/engineers spend a lot of time working to avoid loops in complicated networks and that can get fucked up in a second if someone just does something stupid with a cable.

My old boss Gary, for all that he was a huge asshole, hated firing people. The first person I ever saw him fire was a tech who, on his first day, took down our client site when he plugged a switch back into itself to "tidy things up" and then didn't admit that he'd done it for six hours.

That guy probably shouldn't have been sent out to a client site his first day, but he was shadowing a senior tech and wasn't really supposed to be doing anything.

We had a client last week who borked their network because someone didn't want to leave a cable hanging loose from a switch but also didn't want to unplug the cable because they thought it might get lost. So they plugged the loose end into an empty port.

Basically this:

[whirligig-girl]

Guz grinned at her model, as it completed the first loop around the layout of her new quarters. Guz explained the contents of the train--solid rocket boosters for the North Meridian Space Launch Facility.

"It's not really prototypical though, is it?" Rutherford asked.

"A steam engine pulling high explosives does seem illogical," T'lyn said.

Guz smiled and flapped her hands. "It is prototypical, and here's how it happened--"

Around the late 2330s, an oil crisis shocked Mellanus. It was a while before it got really bad, and the rationing had to begin, but it skyrocketed the price of gasoline and diesel and plastic products. As Omen approached, the railways identified a problem--there might not be enough oil to migrate everyone and move all the goods that need to be moved to support the migration as the climate changed. With the increasing diesel fuel shortages, railways had to start taking their old coal and wood burning steam engines out of mothballs.

This one, No.2475, was taken out of a museum. It only rarely actually ran, so it was in poor mechanical condition, but when it re-entered service its paint and brass was pristine.

The diesel locomotive that had been scheduled to take the train of SRBs ran out of fuel during the first hill climb, and the depot didn't have enough fuel to spare, so 2475 was diverted from its passenger duties to take the train the rest of the way.

Eventually most of the old timer steam engines ended up back in museums or scrapped, but as the oil crisis waxed, the railways invented Advanced Steam engines to be as fuel efficient as possible.

"--like that tank engine, Sam," Guz finished, pointing at the little yellow switcher that Rutherford and T'lyn had been inspecting.

[hidefdoritos]

Lately, I've created two bantering sportscasters who narrate my actions as a yard switcher (I move semi trailers around at the cargo job).

Darryl: Another incredible parking job from Moss! This back-in park required only two tries, with a brief forward realignment. Chuck, hit me with that replay.

Chuck: As you can see, Moss made an incredible first turn. 23-foot trailers are squirrelly, and you can see Moss get a little dramatic on their first try. However, they immediately recognize line divergence and take it forward again to fix it, this time returning for a perfect parking job.

Darryl: It's now 6 pm, and Manager John has called for a hot swap on door 28. Hot swaps are a tricky maneuver: you've got to pull the full trailer, find its parking space, find an empty trailer, and put that one on door. All the while, there's a conveyor indoors filling with boxes, up to three people waiting and making faces out the window, and potentially other truckers in the yard to judge you.

Chuck: Moss has many skills, but their track record with social pressure is pretty rough. Their stats show their IQ dropping a full 15 points per "real" trucker observing their actions.

Darryl: Their setup turns were very wide this time, and you can see an early mistake: turning the wheel the wrong direction. This folded the trailer into an even sharper angle, which is embarrassing. It's now lined up with the trailer on door 27. And, in an impressive series of going backwards and forwards, Moss has managed to fully Austin Powers their trailer in the middle of the yard.

Chuck: Let's get a close-up on that scowl.

Darryl: They really choked under the pressure this time.

Chuck: Now we see them give up and loop around the yard again. They're gonna give this hot swap a second try.

Darryl: Come on, rookie.

Chuck: Much better setup this time, Darryl. Notice them breathing deeply--it's a mental game now.

Darryl: Focusing solely on the trailer and the lines is a good move. And they're mostly in line! It takes a few backwards and forwards alignments, but it looks like they're getting it!

Chuck: And they're on the door! Three adjustments (the second time around) is pretty reasonable for how much pressure they put themself under.

Darryl: Moss has shown some really promising progress this year. Earlier this year, they were an average college senior who thought landing gear and air lines were just for planes. However, the 5'8 rookie has been catching on. They've had a rough few years and a few false starts with craft stores, cashier jobs, and burrito joints, but they seem to really be finding their groove.

Chuck: Let's check in now on this empty trailer pull. Coming off door 9 with another 23-footer. The yard is getting crowded now, so they'll have to try backing in from the blind side.

Darryl: Which they taught themself to do. Last night. And it's now dark.

Chuck: Check out that excellent serpentine maneuver for the setup! The truck is very close to straight. Now they just have to back up smoothly.

Darryl: Chuck. Chuck, are you seeing this!

Chuck: Come on, rookie, we're all rooting for you.

Darryl: They find the line in the bubble mirror, and the back tires are tracing it perfectly.

Chuck: It's almost there.

Darryl: Annnnnnd.............PARK!

Chuck: It's a miracle! A blind side backup job in ONE SMOOTH MOTION!

Darryl: IN THE DARK! FROM THE BLIND SIDE! IS THERE ANYTHING THIS ROOKIE CAN'T DO?

Chuck: And with real truckers watching? Incredible. This is gonna boost their credibility for sure.

Darryl: We're gonna cut to commercial while they unhook the lines and park the switcher. But we'll be right back to watch them try to remember how to put straight truck 095 in gear. Don't go away!

[educationmore]

Python for Beginners: Launch Your Tech Career with Coding Skills

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

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

Why Python Is the Perfect Language for Beginners

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

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

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

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

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

What Can You Do With Python?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get Started with Python

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

Step 1: Install Python

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

Step 2: Choose an IDE

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

Step 3: Learn the Basics

Focus on:

Variables and data types

Conditional statements

Loops

Functions

Lists and dictionaries

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

Step 4: Build Projects

Learning by doing is key. Start small:

Build a calculator

Automate file organization

Create a to-do list app

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

How Python Skills Can Boost Your Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Python Modules Explained - Different Types and Functions - Python Tutorial

[ottermeat]

What ChatGPT knows today

Dave Blair, also known as "The Light Herder," is an American artist based in Lake Worth Beach, Florida, renowned for his innovative work in kinetic sculpture and video feedback art. His creations explore the interplay of light, recursion, and emergent behavior, resulting in dynamic visual experiences.

The Light Herder Device

Central to Blair's artistic practice is his custom-built apparatus, referred to as "The Light Herder." This intricate device combines elements such as cameras, high-definition monitors, video switchers, and beam splitter glass to generate complex video feedback loops. By manipulating these components, Blair crafts evolving fractal patterns and abstract forms that mimic natural phenomena like galaxies, cellular structures, and DNA strands.

Artistic Philosophy and Recognition

Blair's work delves into themes of recursion and emergent behavior, aiming to create visual representations of complex systems. His innovative approach has garnered attention from various media outlets, including features in Make Magazine, Boing Boing, and Hackaday. Notably, cognitive scientist Douglas Hofstadter praised Blair's creations, stating, "It really is quite tangled...very impressive. Lots of wonderful fern-like stuff, also some jellyfish-like stuff, and the Sierpiński gasket now and then. Congratulations!"

Performances and Exhibitions

Blair has showcased his work at events such as the Lafayette Electronic Arts Festival (LEAF) in Colorado, where he collaborated with musician Matt Pass in a performance titled "Light Herder & Sound Scraper." This collaboration featured real-time audiovisual environments combining electronically manipulated vocals with live video feedback.

Online Presence

Beyond physical exhibitions, Blair shares his experiments and performances through his YouTube channel and his website, TheLightHerder.com. These platforms offer viewers insight into his creative process and the evolving nature of his kinetic sculptures.

Through his unique fusion of art and technology, Dave Blair continues to push the boundaries of visual expression, inviting audiences to explore the mesmerizing patterns and behaviors that emerge from his work.

[uupiic]

Can't access AO3 unless I use the User-Agent Switcher add-on :/ It just keeps me in a constant loop of ''aRe YoU a bOt'' otherwise :/

(ironically, even then I can only access the damn thing if it's set to an earlier version of Firefox than what I have :')

[st4rdom-if]

happy Valentine’s Day aurie!! :)) i too will be playing IF’s on loop :,)/lh

i have a few Valentine’s Day/romance themed questions for the RO’s if that’s okay!! :D

Who are the big and little spoons? :)

How do the RO’s celebrate Valentines Day and White Day?

What are the RO’s favourite gifts?

What are their love languages?

Sorry if this got too long😅 and I wish you an amazing February!! :))

Hey, happy Valentine's Day! IFs have become my comfort for this very day and that totally did not sound sad.

Okay, to the questions!

Big spoons: Chang-ho

Little spoons: Nari

Wild card (switcher): Andy, Gracie, Seungho

♥♥♥

Nari goes all out for Valentine's Day and White Day. No matter what time you wake up, the dorm/apartment will be decorated in pink or white respectively (you have no idea how long she stayed awake setting everything up). If dating, she will have an elaborate plan set up, whether it is a picnic, candlelight dinner, or cuddles.

Chang-ho will have a few plans set up, but otherwise he will leave the planning up to you. "Just for today, you can do what you want and I will not stop you." He is not big on hugging, but if you want some he will endure. Every day is Valentine's Day for him whenever he is with you, which is all of the time.

Andy loves cooking and taking photos of you, so expect that the entire day. They have a menu plan for both special days, so while the two of you cook meals they take various pictures to put in an album. It has become a tradition, and you are pretty sure this is their sneaky way of snapping up-close pictures of you. Not that you mind.

Seungho has no plans. But really, you should have expected that from him. He might have an activity planned, but that will be it. As long as he gets to stay with you the entire day, it will be perfect. He would honestly cancel any plans he has with his groupmembers by feigning sickness just to be with you.

Gracie, having surprised you with expensive plane tickets a few days before, has something planned out for you. Turns out she spent the last two months looking for activities to do so that you will not get bored.

♥♥♥

Nari wants hugs, kisses, any physical touch. Chang-ho has been eyeing this specific pair of aviator sunglasses for a while. Andy is in dire need of a Polaroid; they are a sucker for flapping out the film. Seungho does not have a favorite gift (yes he does there is a bracelet you gave him when you were younger and he still wears it). Gracie has been subtly asking people to buy her Ethereal's Soft Morning perfume even though she can afford it.

♥♥♥

Nari: Physical touch, quality time

Chang-ho: Acts of service, quality time

Andy: Receiving gifts, words of affirmation

Seungho: Words of affirmation, physical touch

Gracie: Quality time, receiving gifts

♥♥♥

[glitchartistscollective]

Jerry Sneede - To quote the original post 'The new High Definition Video Feedback Fractal Time Machine is complete.Made of maple, mahogany, aluminum, plus 3 cameras, 5 HD feedback monitors (with analog knobs), 3 Roland video switchers, 2 viewing monitors, 2 sheets of beam splitter glass, 1 video input.The operator at the helm of this device produces spirals within spirals, loops within loops, galaxies, classical fractal imagery and primordial organisms, plants, insects and creatures of the deep as secrets of the Universe are revealed.https://youtu.be/GQSrtDF5nbw?si=gL8wV10y8FvPQ-4M for 4K' - 13/10/2023

Source: Glitch artists collective - Facebook

[miloscat]

[Review] Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal (3DS)

Maybe Sonic Boom works better in 2D than 3D.

Alongside Rise of Lyric, Sega commissioned a handheld companion game within their Sonic Boom line. Development duties went to Sanzaru Games, another American studio who had previously made the Sly Cooper 3D platformers. This is actually their first 2D game (well, 2.5D anyway) and while it's less ambitious than RoL, it is much more successful at fulfilling those lower ambitions.

While RoL had a flash-forward cold open, this one abruptly starts in medias res with Lyric accosting Amy. Amy apparently is an archaeologist of sorts, and Lyric mind controls her to find the secrets of a lost extra crystal, tying into the MacGuffin objects in RoL. This sadly puts Amy in the "damsel in distress" role, but it does make room on the D-pad character switcher for Sticks to be playable this time (yay!). Incidentally, Lyric is not given an introduction in in-game cutscenes, but gets some backstory in the form of a short comic that is only viewable after level 1, which also sets up the present-day events. It's done by the Archie team of Ian Flynn and Evan Stanley, and [fun fact] is the only time that Sega let them put Lyric or Boom Shadow in any kind of comic medium.

The game plays out on a 2D plane with occasional dips into the foreground or background in short transitional sequences. It reminded me a little of Generations 3DS since it has a boost/dash button (unlimited use here, but doesn't damage enemies until you get an unlockable perk late on) and a mid-air homing attack. You also get the Enerbeam for grapple swinging and removing enemy shields, and each character has their own abilities and interactions. Tails can hover and throw bombs, Knuckles can burrow, Sticks throws her boomerang, and Sonic has a versatile air dash. As you encounter the characters and quickly build your team, you can swap between them on the fly which is needed to progress and find optional areas.

Although the format feels a lot more like traditional Sonic than RoL, this is similarly more slow-paced and exploratory than many of the series' 2D outings. I do think it strikes a good balance and flow, helped by quick on-the-spot respawns from pits as long as you have rings. The levels can be sprawling, and it's not always obvious which path leads onwards or to optional goodies, but it's usually possible to backtrack or loop to earlier portions. And you will need to do this, as completionist plays of levels become necessary. In a good use of the bottom screen, a scrollable map does help you get around and find goodies.

Saying this game only has eight (8) levels sounds absurd, but it's not the full story. The levels are huge, with full collectathon runs taking upwards of 15 minutes while the time trials often have a goal over 5 minutes. Each one also consists of two different environments that you bounce back and forth between using Enerbeam slingshots. These levels have a series of goals: time trials and ring collection give tokens to unlock character model dioramas, while collection of all blueprints (for unlocking passive perks, much more useful here than RoL's equivalent bonuses) and crystal shards give crests that unlock new levels. If you try to just breeze through you quickly encounter a hard roadblock that makes you go back and repeat levels for crests. I'm the type who enjoys doing and getting everything so it suited me, but it might not be to everyone's tastes that this is required.

Along with the eight main levels, there are race levels... kind of like the races in Generations 3DS. These use the same engine to have you beat another character through a fast-paced platforming level, and I found them fun to learn and improve. Another type of side level is the worm chase, an into-the-screen autorunning affair which Sanzaru would build on in their Tron Run/r game soon after this. These were less enjoyable for me and more demanding, although they're simpler to control. Rounding out the whole game is a Lyric battle—the only boss fight—which is not bad and incorporates platforming between phases. These other level types are a good way to flesh out the package and break up the action between the gigantic regular levels.

One of the strengths of the Sonic Boom show is its array of goofy side characters, and while RoL slotted a few in, there's a dearth here. Shadow at least has slightly more of an integral role in Shattered Crystal, but oddly Eggman has barely a cameo! However SC does stand head and shoulders over RoL in the script department as it actually remembers that Sonic Boom is a comedy series, and has lots of silly interactions between the characters before and after each level. The credited external writers weren't involved with the show but they seem to get it, and it makes this game feel more authentically part of the setting.

Speaking of the setting, the game looks lovely with varied environments and lots of detail in the backgrounds. The Donkey Kong Country-style world map helps give a sense of place and context to the levels, although it's far too zoomed in so you can't even see where the paths take you, which means a lot of trial and error to find levels. Trial and error on the map screen! What were they thinking!!

Shattered Crystal always got points for me by including a playable Sticks, but now that I've played it, it turns out it's a decent game as well. It feels more like a Sonic game than Rise of Lyric, but also shakes up the format a lot in ways that I like by encouraging exploration and interaction, even if it's relatively simple. I also think it does well specifically as part of the Sonic Boom series. I'm excited to see how Sanzaru builds on it with their second game!

[walkswithdave]

The God Machine II: Fractal Video Feedback Kinetic Sculpture (Ty and Dave Edition)

Three high definition camera feedback loops and beam-splitter glass, combined with an Insanity Mode of a feedback loop between feedback loops themselves, mix together to create fractal sets within other fractal sets, cell structures, strands of DNA, trees, insects, tentacled primordial creatures - a combination of movements and settings that result in never identical ephemeral visual output.

See the Device here: https://youtu.be/3uzxcl_d8uk?si=Q-cYhc1KMaQuETWv

See the entire Light Herder project here: https://www.thelightherder.com

Switching quickly between an input and the camera looking at that input on a screen instantly "traps" that image within the system, now cycling 'round and 'round between camera and screen, contorting with each iteration.

Watch a video about images "trapped in the wires" here: https://youtu.be/3Sm0H_8Z7uc?si=b_7vYLGf4qxepH-B

Made of maple, mahogany, aluminum, three cameras, five HD feedback monitors (with hue/saturation/brightness analog knobs), three Roland video switchers, two viewing monitors, two sheets of beam splitter glass, and a video input, the mechanism makes high definition analog video feedback as never before created.

Dedicated to Douglas Hofstadter, who taught me to love all things self-referential.

Feedback loops are all-important, and are present in ecosystems, geological systems, social systems, biological systems, and it’s no wonder the images created using the structure are so organic looking. Gazing into this feedback allows for insights into the magic of recursion.

But where do these images come from you might be thinking, and why do they actually exist? Once initiated, they come from themselves, and exist because they exist.

Imagine a dark room where a camera is looking at a screen which displays the output of that camera. The screen will stay void of an image forever until a “spark of life” (say the lighting of a match) brings forth an image, which will then continue on and on, changing through iterations. That pattern now exists within the wires of the system, long after the original spark is gone.

See an example of feedback started with a "spark of life" here: https://www.thelightherder.com/2010/01/feedback-machine-test-number-three.html

But, then imagine something blocks the camera’s view of the screen, just for an instant. All of a sudden, the image goes out, and the camera sees a dark screen again, which displays what the camera sees, etc… now blackness replaces the pattern. It would be impossible to find these feedback images by looking at the wiring of the system, by dissecting the cameras and monitors.

This may be like the mind - you can't find consciousness just by inspecting the nerves and connections of the brain. The mind is a pattern that grows through feedback, iterations over time. Once that pattern is interrupted (something blocks the camera's view of the monitor), the pattern disappears, leaving just the organic mechanism.

So this may answer the question "where do we go when we die?" - the same place the snowflake's pattern goes when the snowflake melts?

Light Herding by Dave Blair and Ty Hardaway.

Music: Thee Oh Sees, Black Chems

For The Video Feedback Kinetic Sculpture complete build history:

Forward Chronology: https://walkswithdave.tumblr.com/tagged/videofeedbackkineticsculpture/chrono

Reverse Chronology: https://walkswithdave.tumblr.com/tagged/videofeedbackkineticsculpture

[effectpedal]

Jesse Cohen 

Finally completed my vision! A board for all reasons!

From right to left:

Guitar/bass board (the actual board I take to gigs and play out of generally)

Looping board (I tak

e this to my solo gigs)

Mod board: a place for the lesser-used effects that I want for experimenting, composing, or recording from time to time. Also a place to try out new effects. Also used with my keyboards via input/output switcher at top right

Metal board: for playing metal!

Dual delay board: I posted about this one yesterday, parallel dual delay with tap tempo for both pedals

The mod, metal, and delay boards are accessed with the bypass loop switches so they’re not in the chain at all if I don’t want them.

Still a lot of pedals on shelves but at least some get to stretch their legs out more often.

[myosotis-secunda]

I will note that user-agent switcher can cause issues with cloudfare on many websites which basically blocks them from use via. putting you in an infinite captcha-loop, speaking from experience. Still definitely a useful extension, but if you suddenly stop being able to access certain websites while you have it on, its probably the reason why.

Google is actively blocking Captcha on Firefox

Firefox users have noticed that captchas - both the picture kind and the click the box kind - are not resolving on Firefox. Tests on Chromium based browsers show that it works perfectly fine on them. It is also known that Chrome will be disabling all ad-blockers in June when it moves to Manifest v3, which will greatly limit what extensions can do.

If you use Firefox, there is an extension called User-Agent Switcher and it allows you to change your browser's UA to Chrome. This will allow you to bypass reCaptcha/Captcha blocks set up by Google and make them function properly.

It could be a code snafu on Google's part - but given how predatory they have been acting lately, I'm going to guess not. Don't get locked out of your websites or feel forced to use Chrome again just to browse.

[whirligig-girl]

Train Puzzle Devlog 2025-03-08

Since the last update, work has slowly been proceeding to bring to perfection the crudely conceived idea of a transmission that would not only supply--ok enough turbo-encabulator bs. Let's get to the changes.

This video shows a few new features. Watch with headphones.

@msasterisk re-did car physics. Previously cars rode on single points, and so they tended to ride fairly roughly. On the very curved tracks in some levels, or in places where the tracks didn't line up exactly, cars would jerk around and sometimes even break their couplers. Now the motion is significantly smoother.

Fun fact: According to MsAsterisk, implementing it this way was actually easier than using a single point.

This change also brings with it two other improvements.

Switch stands will no longer throw if a car is on top of it. Currently only the end of the points (where the lever is) is tracked, but this will eventually be made less forgiving, which will make it harder to perform 'Flying Switch'/'Dutch Drop' and car kicking maneuvers. Not impossible, but enough that it should be able to be constrained in level design. This does mean we have to go through and alter some siding capacities to account for the less forgiving switches.

Sounds! Since each car now has two trucks, and each truck can have multiple axles, cars will make clickity-clack sounds as they run over switches. We considered making them clack regularly (with the rail joints), but since we are hearing the entire screen and not just a single point of view, the constant clacking got confusing. This way the clacking is restricted to when the cars actually cross a border that is meaningful to gameplay, which makes it an auditory aid.

In addition, the game's sound effects are now spatial! The effect is fairly subtle, but it's there. If you didn't already notice it, go rewatch the video above. Sound effects on the left side of the screen will sound like they're to the viewer's left, etc.

Cars and locomotives now also make a low rumbling and clanking noise when in motion.

These changes make the game sound more dynamic and real.

In the video above, you can see the camera moving. The behavior shown in the video didn't really work that great since the camera would move when the mouse was near the screen border... but there's u.i. elements there, and it would even do so when tabbed away.

However, while I sit here writing this post, MsAsterisk remains hard at work, and now there's already a fix for this--the camera now moves with the arrow keys and with right click dragging. To-Do: add borders to the camera's motion, and zooming in and out.

Here, i've reduced the screen width (more than you'd ever do in normal play) to demonstrate the extreme case. The camera can move, and the sound effects also change their position relative to the camera as you do so (which is why I move the camera back and forth several times).

In the second video you can also see the new "Turnout Hell" level I put together, based on a layout I found online called the "Short Long Way Around," a dense 'shelf switcher'. Can you find the runaround loop in that mess?

We also have a new menu, freeing up some screen space. Included is the settings menu (TBD), the level reset button, and the level select button.

We have pretty big goals for the next stable main version, and they'll take a while to complete, and it'll be even longer before the actual game can be released.

Also, at some point I'm gonna need to start pulling my weight around here and work on more art assets, including changes to existing cars and new scenery structures. I've been using a lot of 'we' in this post, but I can't stress enough that nearly all of the work showcased here, from the sound design to the programming, was done by the excellent MsAsterisk.

[eduvantec]

Python for Absolute Beginners: What You Need to Know

Python is one of the easiest programming languages to start with in 2025. Whether you're a student, career switcher, or simply curious about coding, Python offers a smooth learning curve, powerful capabilities, and endless possibilities. Here's everything absolute beginners need to know to start confidently.

📌 Why Learn Python First?

Python has clean syntax, readable code, and tons of real-world applications — from web development and automation to data science and artificial intelligence. It's also widely used in universities and coding bootcamps.

🧱 What Are the Basics You Should Learn?

Start with the core fundamentals:

Variables and Data Types

If-Else Conditions

Loops (For, While)

Functions

Lists, Tuples, and Dictionaries These concepts build the foundation for everything you’ll do in Python.

💻 What Tools Do You Need?

Install Python from python.org and use a beginner-friendly IDE like Thonny or VS Code. Start writing your first “Hello, World!” script and build confidence with hands-on practice.

🛠️ How to Practice as a Beginner?

Use websites like Replit, HackerRank, or SoloLearn. Try solving beginner problems or creating mini projects like a calculator, to-do list, or number guessing game. Practice is key!

👨‍🏫 When to Ask for Help?

It’s totally normal to get stuck. Don’t let frustration stop your progress. If you need extra help with Python basics, assignments, or debugging, visit AllHomeworkAssignments.com to connect with Python experts anytime.

🚀 Ready to Begin Your Python Journey?

Start small, stay consistent, and focus on writing code every day. Python is beginner-friendly for a reason — with the right guidance and dedication, you’ll be building projects in no time.

[alivah2kinfosys]

Is Python Training Certification Worth It? A Complete Breakdown

Introduction: Why Python, Why Now?

In today's digital-first world, learning Python is more than a tech trend it's a smart investment in your career. Whether you're aiming for a job in data science, web development, automation, or even artificial intelligence, Python opens doors across industries. But beyond just learning Python, one big question remains: Is getting a Python certification truly worth it? Let’s break it all down for you.

This blog gives a complete and easy-to-understand look at what Python training certification involves, its real-world value, the skills you’ll gain, and how it can shape your future in the tech industry.

What Is a Python Certification Course?

A Python certification course is a structured training program that equips you with Python programming skills. Upon completion, you receive a certificate that validates your knowledge. These programs typically cover:

Core Python syntax

Data structures (lists, tuples, sets, dictionaries)

Functions and modules

Object-oriented programming

File handling

Exception handling

Real-world projects and coding tasks

Many certification programs also dive into specialized areas like data analysis, machine learning, and automation.

Why Choose Python Training Online?

Python training online offers flexibility, accessibility, and practical experience. You can learn at your own pace, access pre-recorded sessions, and often interact with instructors or peers through discussion boards or live sessions.

Key Benefits of Online Python Training:

Learn from anywhere at any time

Save time and commute costs

Access recorded lessons and code examples

Practice real-world problems in sandbox environments

Earn certificates that add credibility to your resume

What You’ll Learn in a Python Certification Course

A typical Python certification course builds a solid foundation while preparing you for real-world applications. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the topics generally covered:

1. Python Basics

Installing Python

Variables and data types

Input/output operations

Basic operators and expressions

2. Control Flow

Conditional statements (if, elif, else)

Loops (for, while)

Loop control (break, continue, pass)

3. Data Structures

Lists, Tuples, Sets, Dictionaries

Nested structures

Built-in methods

4. Functions

Defining and calling functions

Arguments and return values

Lambda and anonymous functions

5. Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

Classes and objects

Inheritance and polymorphism

Encapsulation and abstraction

6. Modules and Packages

Creating and importing modules

Built-in modules

Using packages effectively

7. File Handling

Reading and writing text and binary files

File methods and context managers

8. Error and Exception Handling

Try-except blocks

Raising exceptions

Custom exceptions

9. Hands-On Projects

Calculator, contact manager, data scraper

Mini web applications or automation scripts

Each section ends with assessments or projects to apply what you’ve learned.

Real-World Value: Is It Worth It?

Yes. A Python training certification proves your ability to code, solve problems, and think logically using one of the most in-demand languages in the world.

Here’s how it adds value:

Resume Booster: Employers look for certifications to confirm your skills.

Interview Confidence: It helps you discuss concepts and projects fluently.

Skill Validation: Certification shows structured learning and consistent practice.

Career Mobility: Useful across fields like automation, finance, healthcare, education, and cloud computing.

Industry Demand for Python Skills:

Python is the #1 programming language according to multiple tech industry surveys.

Data shows that Python developers earn an average of $110,000/year in the U.S.

Job postings mentioning Python have grown by over 30% annually in tech job boards.

Who Should Take Python Training?

Python is beginner-friendly and ideal for:

Career switchers moving into tech

Recent graduates seeking to upskill

IT professionals expanding their language toolkit

Data analysts looking to automate reports

Web developers wanting to integrate back-end logic

QA testers or manual testers automating test cases

No prior coding background? No problem. The syntax and logic of Python are easy to learn, making it perfect for newcomers.

Top Online Python Courses: What Makes Them Stand Out?

A good online certification in Python includes:

Clear learning paths (Beginner to Advanced)

Project-based learning

Regular assignments and quizzes

Instructor-led sessions

Code-along demos

Interview prep support

You’ll also benefit from industry-expert guidance and hands-on practice that aligns with job roles like:

Python Developer

Automation Engineer

Data Analyst

Machine Learning Engineer

DevOps Support Engineer

How a Certified Python Skillset Helps in the Job Market

Certified Python professionals can confidently step into roles across multiple domains. Here are just a few examples:

Industry

Use of Python

Finance

Automating calculations, data modeling, trading bots

Healthcare

Analyzing patient records, diagnostics, imaging

E-commerce

Building web apps, handling user data, recommendations

Education

Online tutoring platforms, interactive content

Media & Gaming

Scripting, automation, content generation

Python certification helps you stand out and back your resume with verified skills.

Common Python Program Ideas to Practice

Practicing real-world Python program ideas will sharpen your skills. Some examples:

Web scraper: Pull news headlines automatically.

To-do list app: Store and edit tasks using files or databases.

Weather app: Use APIs to show forecasts.

Quiz app: Build a console-based quiz game.

Data visualizer: Create graphs with user input.

These ideas not only test your knowledge but also help you build a portfolio.

How Certification Enhances Your Career Growth

Getting a Python certification course helps in:

Job Placements: Certification shows employers you’re job-ready.

Career Transition: It bridges the gap between your current role and tech jobs.

Higher Salaries: Certified professionals often get better salary offers.

Freelance Opportunities: Certification builds trust for independent work.

Continued Learning: Prepares you for specialized tracks like AI, ML, or full-stack development.

Sample Python Code: A Glimpse into Real-World Logic

Here’s a simple example of file handling in Python:

python

def write_to_file(filename, data):

    with open(filename, 'w') as file:

        file.write(data)

def read_from_file(filename):

    with open(filename, 'r') as file:

        return file.read()

write_to_file('sample.txt', 'Learning Python is rewarding!')

print(read_from_file('sample.txt'))

This simple project covers file handling, function usage, and string operations key concepts in any Python training online course.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Course

To make your online certification in Python truly worth it, ensure the course offers:

Well-structured syllabus

Projects that simulate real-world use

Active instructor feedback

Placement or job-readiness training

Lifetime access or resources

Test simulations or quizzes

Summary: Is It Worth the Time and Money?

In short, yes a Python certification is worth it.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your tech skills, Python is a powerful tool that opens many doors. A certification not only helps you learn but also proves your commitment and ability to apply these skills in real scenarios.

Final Thoughts

Python is no longer optional, it’s essential. A Python certification course gives you structure, credibility, and a roadmap to professional success. It’s one of the smartest ways to future-proof your career in tech.

Start your learning journey with H2K Infosys today. Enroll now for hands-on Python training and expert-led certification support that prepares you for the real tech world.