Hi learners! I hope you are having a good day. In the previous lecture, we saw Kohonen’s neural network, which is a modern type of neural network. We know that modern neural networks are playing a crucial role in maintaining the workings of multiple industries at a higher level. Today we are talking about another neural network named EfficientNet. It is not only a single neural network but a set of different networks that work alike and have the same principles but have their own specialized workings as well.
EfficentNet is providing groundbreaking innovations in the complex fields of deep learning and computer vision. It makes these fields more accessible and, therefore, enhances their range of practical applications. We will start with the introduction, and then we will share some useful information about the structure of this neural network. So let’s start learning.
EfficientNet is a family of neural networks that are part of CNN's architecture, but it has some of the latest and even better functionalities that help users achieve state-of-the-art efficiency.
The efficientNet was introduced in 2019 in a research paper with the title “EfficientNet: Rethinking Model Scaling for Convolutional Neural Networks.” Mingxing Tan and Quoc V. Le introduced it, and this is now one of the most popular and latest neural networks. These are Google’s AI researchers, and the popularity of this neural network is due to its robust applications in multiple domains.
The motivation behind EfficentNet's development is the popularity of its parent neural network, CNN, which is an expensive and efficient network. The deployment of CNN in resource-constrained environments such as mobile devices was difficult, which led to the idea of an EfficentNet neural network.
The EffcinetNet has a relatively simpler working model than the CNN to provide efficiency and accuracy. The basic principle of working is the same as in CNN, but EfficeintNet archives better goals because of the scaleable calculations. The convolution of the dataset allows EffcientNet to perform complicated calculations more efficiently. This helps EffcientNet a lot in the processing of images and complex data, and as a result, this neural network is one of the most suitable choices for fields like computer vision and image processing.
As we have mentioned earlier, EffcientNet is not a single neural network but a family. Each neural network has the same architecture but is slightly different because of the different working methods. Some parameters are important to understand before knowing the difference between these members:
When the topic is a neural network, the FLOPs denote the number of floating points per second a neural network can perform. It means the total number of billions of floating point operations an EffcinetNet member can perform.
The parameters define the number of weights and biases that the neural network can learn during the training process. These are usually represented in millions of numbers, and the user must understand that the 5.3 parameter means the particular member can learn 5.3 million parameters it can train.
Accuracy is the most basic and important parameter to check the performance of a neural network. The EffecntNet family varies in accuracy, and users have to choose the best one according to the requirements of the task.
Different family members of EffcientNet are indicated by numbers in the name, and each member has a slightly larger size than the previous one. As a result, accuracy and performance are enhanced. Here is the table that will show you the difference among these:
| Member Name | FLOPs | Parameters | Accuracy |
B0 |
0.6 |
5.3 |
77.1% |
B1 |
1.1 |
7.8 |
79.1% |
B2 |
1.8 |
9.2 |
80.1% |
B3 |
3.2 |
12.0 |
81.6% |
B4 |
5.3 |
19.0 |
82.7% |
B5 |
7.9 |
31.0 |
83.7% |
B6 |
11.8 |
43.0 |
84.4% |
B7 |
19.8 |
66.0 |
84.9% |
This table shows the trade-off between different parameters of EffcientNet models, and it shows that a larger size (increased cost) can be more useful and accurate, and vice versa. These eight members are best for particular types of tasks, and while choosing the best one for the particular task, some other kinds of research are also important.
The workings and structure of every family member of EffcientNet are alike. Therefore, here is a simple and general overview of the features of EffcientNet. This will show the workings and advantages of the EfficientNet neural network.
One of the most significant features of this family is the compound scaling, which is different from other options for neural networks. It has the power to maintain the balance between the following features of the network:
As a result, the EfficientNet network does not require additional computation and provides better performance.
A difference between the traditional CNN and EffientNet neural networks is the depthwise separable convolutions. As a result, the complexity of this network is less than CNN's. All the channels use a separate convolutional kernel; therefore, depthwise separate convolutions are applied to the channels.
The resultant image is then passed through a pointwise convolution. Here, the outputs of the depthwise convolution channel are combined into a single channel. The standard convolution requires a great deal of data, but this technique requires a smaller number of parameters and significantly reduces the complexity.
The EffcientNet family uses a different and more recent type of convolution known as MBConv. It has a better design than the traditional convolution. The depthwise convolutions and pointwise linear convolutions can be done simultaneously. It is useful in reducing floating-point operations for overall performance. The two key features of this architecture are:
Here is a simple introduction to both:
The inverted bottleneck has three main convolutional layers:
This is applied during the computation of the inverted bottleneck. This adds the shortcut connection around the inverted bottleneck, and as a result, the inverted residual blocks are formed. This is important because it helps reduce the loss of information when convolution is applied to the data.
The representational power of EffcientNet can be enhanced by using an architecture called Squeeze and Excite, or SE. It is not a particular or specialized architecture for EfficinetNet but is a separate block that can be incorporated into EfficentNet. The reason to introduce it here is to show that different architectures can be applied to EfficnetNet to enhance efficiency and performance.
The efficeintNet is a family, and therefore, it has multiple sets of workings out of which, the user can choose the most accurate. The eight members of this series (E0 to E7) are ideal for particular tasks; therefore, these provide the options for the user to get the best matching performance. All of these provide a different type of combination of accuracy and size, and therefore, more users are attracted to them.
Hence, this was all about EffientNet, and we have understood all the basic features of this neural network. The EffenctNet is a set of neural networks that are different from each other in accuracy and size, but their workings and structures are similar.
EffcientNet was developed by the Google AI Research team, and the inspiration was CNN. These are considered the lightweight version of the convolutional networks and provide better performance because of the compound scaling and depthwise convolutions. I hope it was helpful for you and if you want to know more about modern neural networks then stay with us because we will talk about these in the coming lectures.
DevOps engineers have a challenging job to do. They are responsible for managing servers, code, and many other components in a software project. They routinely employ numerous tools and calculators to facilitate their daily activities.
Engineers working in DevOps employ a range of calculators to reduce the complexity of any given issue. These tools facilitate and speed up the work. Planning, risk management, and performance optimization can all benefit from them.
Here are some tools that can be useful to a DevOps engineer.
Time is money! Estimating how long a task will take is crucial. This calculator is used by DevOps engineers to estimate various calculations. This tool aids in making time estimates for projects. To predict the amount of time needed in the future, they analyze historical data.
In every field, a budget estimate is required. DevOps engineers use this tool to control the budget because of this. They have a fantastic choice in using this cost calculator to choose an acceptable ratio of cost to keep inside the budget.
Performance is important in all facets of life. CPU load calculators are used to determine the load on a server. They help DevOps engineers decide if more servers are needed. Or maybe they can improve the ones that are already in place. It encourages hasty decision-making.
Data travels swiftly. How rapidly should it progress though? The main purpose of bandwidth calculators is to address this issue. DevOps engineers can use this tool to calculate the amount of bandwidth needed for effective operation. They are necessary to stop system idleness.
Data must be kept in large quantities to prevent loss. These math calculators have been programmed to address this issue. Storage calculators give a precise picture of the amount of space needed. They forecast how much room would be needed over time. The fear of running out of storage is less likely as a result.
To quantify the risks, DevOps engineers employ risk assessment tools. This enables them to combat several unforeseen circumstances that can jeopardize their business. They estimate the likelihood of different dangers.
Return on investment (ROI) is a crucial concept. This calculator is used by DevOps engineers to calculate the benefits of an investment. Like other jobs, measuring the investment or its rewards is crucial. They compare and contrast the costs and benefits. This helps to justify the price of new machinery or systems.
A DevOps engineer is using this tool to calculate the latency in data transport. This helps them identify the problem causing the data transfer delay so that it may be properly repaired. Understanding network delay can help you provide a better user experience.
Hi there! I hope you are having a great day. The success of the field of deep learning is due to its complex and advanced neural networks. These networks can be broadly divided into traditional and modern neural networks. We have seen the details of traditional neural networks, and in the previous session, the basic introduction of modern neural networks and the details of their features were discussed. Today, we will talk about one of the most famous modern neural networks, the Kohonen Self-Organized Neural Network.
Modern neural networks are more organized and developed than traditional neural networks, but that does not make traditional neural networks less efficient than modern ones. All the networks are introduced for specific tasks, and this is one of the main reasons behind the evolution of deep learning in every field. The details of Kohonen's Self-organizing Neural network will prove it, so let’s start learning.
The Kohonen Self-organizing network is also known as the self-organizing feature map (SOFM), and It was developed by Teuvo Kohonen in the 1980s. It is a powerful type of unsupervised learning, the main purpose of which is to map the high dimensional input data even at the lower dimensional grid. It can be used on two or more dimensional data where the neurons are connected and each layer is weighted according to the calculations.
Throughout the data dimensions, the topological properties of the data saved in them remain preserved. During the training process, the self-organizing map learns to organize itself with similar data points and creates a connection with the nearby neurons of the grid.
The training process for SOMs uses competitive learning methods. Think of the scenario where, when new data is added to the network, a quick calculation is made to find the neuron with the same data weight. The most suitable neuron is called the best matching unit (BMU), and adding the new data stimulates it. As a result of this addition, the weights of BMU and their neighbors are updated according to the data. It makes all the neurons similar to each other, and as a result, the network becomes better with time. Here are the details of the key features that we have just discussed:
Topology preservation is the feature of the algorithm that maintains the spatial relationship and the structure of the data that it uses. This all happens when the data is mapped on the lower dimensional grid.
The basic objective of topology preservation is to maintain the structure of the map. This feature preserves the data when it is mapped from higher to lower dimensional space.
This is the basic feature of the Kohonen neural network. The data is arranged in the form of a grid of nodes and neurons. Each of these represents a specific region or cluster of the input data. It becomes easy to maintain the structure of neurons with similar sizes and properties.
This is another way to organize the data in the SOM, and here, the BMU plays a vital role. This feature is responsible for checking two important parameters throughout the processing:
Learning rate
Neighbourhood operation
Here, the learning rate defines the magnitude of the update rate of neurons, and neighborhood operation means the measure of the change in the properties of neighboring neurons when new data is introduced in the model.
Competitive learning helps the network in processes like clustering and visualization. The network autonomously discovers the inherited structure without any need for supervision. It is an iterative process that helps the network grow and learn at a rapid rate.
Understanding the advantages of using Kohonen’s self-organizing network will clarify the significance of this network. Here are some important points about it:
Once you have understood the applications, you are ready to learn about the industrial uses of Kohonen’s self-organizing neural network. The workings of SOM are so organized and automatic that many industries rely on them for the most sensitive calculations, and their results affect the overall performance of that industry. Here are some examples:
The analysis of complex datasets by data mining companies is an important task. Many companies use SOM for such processes where the patterns have to be observed carefully to provide detailed analyses. Different techniques are useful in this regard, but SOM is used here because of the organized pattern and competitive learning.
Some of these companies provide tools for data exploration to their clients. Some provide customer segmentation and anomaly detection. All of these require the use of powerful neural networks, and they use SOM along with other networks for this.
In industries where financial records are imported, this technique detects fraud. For instance, it identifies the patterns of stock marketing and helps detect any abnormal bhavior. In addition to this, processes like risk assessment and credit storage are improved with the help of SOM. This is done in the institutes that are working globally, and a large community has to be handled by the institutes.
The advancement in technology has provided multiple advantages, but it has also led to increased security risks. The SOM is helpful in dealing with such issues. Here are some points to justify how SOM is helpful in different types of technical crimes:
Hence, today we have seen the details of Kohonen’s self-organizing neural network. It is a type of modern neural network that is helping people in different applications in real life. We have seen the features and workings of this neural network, and to understand its importance, we have seen its applications and advantages at different levels. I hope it was helpful to you, and if you want to know more types of modern neural networks, then we will discuss these in the coming sessions. Happy learning.
In a world captivated by the allure of cutting-edge technology and automation, it's easy to overlook the enduring importance of skilled trade jobs . Yet, these professions are not just surviving, they're thriving, as the demand for trade experts is not only robust but also projected to soar in the years to come.
Offering lucrative salaries, rock-solid job security, and abundant opportunities for career growth, trade jobs are the unsung heroes of the modern workforce.
In this article, we'll lift the curtain on 10 high-paying trade jobs of the future and give you the inside scoop on how to make one of these rewarding careers your own.
As the world races to embrace cleaner, greener energy solutions, solar photovoltaic installers are the trailblazers leading us into a sun-powered future. These eco-warriors are the hands and brains behind the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar panel systems that grace rooftops and open fields alike.
With a jaw-dropping projected growth rate of 63% between 2019 and 2029 , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this career is not just hot—it's sizzling!
So, how do you join this solar brigade? You've got options! You can dive right in with on-the-job training or sharpen your skills at a technical school offering specialized courses in solar technology.
IMG Source - https://unsplash.com/photos/PU9Z6n761bc
However, if you're aiming for the top, some states require certification—a badge of honor that can be yours after taking an exam. As for the paycheck, the average solar photovoltaic installer earns around $44,890 annually. But hold onto your hard hat—seasoned pros in this field can rake in significantly more!
As the world's appetite for renewable energy grows, wind turbine technicians are the daredevils riding the gusts of this booming industry. These adrenaline junkies don't just clock in and out, they scale towering turbines and battle the elements to ensure these wind-powered behemoths are in top shape.
If you're wondering about job security, here's a number to blow you away: a staggering 61% growth rate is expected for this role between 2019 and 2029. Talk about a career that's literally on the rise!
So, how do you catch this updraft? First, you'll want to earn your wings at a technical school that offers specialized training in wind energy technology, but the learning doesn't stop there, as you'll also get hands-on experience through on-the-job training.
As for the financial rewards, the average wind turbine technician earns a breezy $56,230 per year, with plenty of room for growth as you gain experience.
IMG Source - https://unsplash.com/photos/-0-kl1BjvFc
In a world where almost everything runs on electricity, electricians are the unsung heroes keeping the lights on—literally. From powering your cozy home and bustling workplace to ensuring that industrial machinery hums along smoothly, these masters of the circuit are indispensable.
As we venture further into the age of smart homes, electric vehicles, and automation, the demand for specialized electricians is set to surge like a bolt of lightning. Thus, it is no surprise that electricians take home over $57,000 on an average each year, with the role set to see a 6% YoY increase in openings.
The journey here often begins with an apprenticeship program that blends together classroom learning, along with on-the-job training. Electricians stand to earn substantially more if they choose to specialize, such as becoming an industrial electrician, or an oil rig electrician, among other things.
In a world obsessed with digital wizardry, plumbers are the timeless guardians of our most basic needs—clean water and functional sanitation. Whether it's laying down the plumbing foundation for a skyscraper or rescuing a suburban home from a disastrous leak, plumbers are the unsung heroes.
This is also one of the few professions on this list that is virtually recession-proof , because no matter how dire the global economy gets, people will not put off a plumbing emergency to a later date. It also helps that plumbing is one such trade that cannot be either outsourced or automated.
So, how do you dive into this evergreen profession? Most aspiring plumbers kick start their careers with an apprenticeship, where they earn while they learn. Plumbers who are licensed can see floodgates of opportunities open for them, allowing for average pay as high as $55,000 annually.
IMG Source - https://unsplash.com/photos/kBKOaghy8mU
As the skies fill with more planes, the unsung heroes ensuring high quality assurance standards
, so that we can fly safely are none other than aircraft mechanics.
These skyward engineers are the last line of defense between us and aviation disasters, meticulously maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the mechanical marvels that are modern airplanes. With the aviation industry set to soar, the demand for these high-flying professionals is set to take off with it.
Your first stop in this business is an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School, where you'll learn the A to Z of aircraft maintenance. But that's not all, you'll also need to ace certification exams to prove you've got the right stuff. Once you’re done with this, you can expect average pay in excess of $64,000 a year.
You wouldn’t expect to see diesel mechanics among the most lucrative trades of the future, but believe us when we say this, diesel engines are not going anywhere.
While they will certainly be phased out among most passenger cars over the coming years, they will continue to dominate when it comes to marine engines, locomotives, and construction and farming equipment for the foreseeable future.
This makes it a much more specialized job, requiring a certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), with the best paying diesel mechanic jobs paying well in excess of $58,000 a year, and with plenty of scope for advancement.
IMG Source - https://unsplash.com/photos/KxeFuXta4SE
As we navigate a world increasingly shaped by technology and automation, it's easy to overlook the enduring value of skilled trades. But make no mistake—these professions aren't just holding steady, they're set to flourish in the coming years.
Whether you're fresh out of high school or contemplating a career pivot, there's a high-paying trade job with your name on it. All you need is a few years of dedication, and a can-do attitude to get things rolling, and a lucrative career can be yours, with no student loan debt, or any other prerequisites.
In the subject of electrical engineering, having precise calculations is essential to the process of creating systems that are both effective and safe. One such calculation that is extremely significant is called the voltage drop, it refers to the decrease in voltage that occurs when electric current flows through a circuit.
A great number of electrical engineers rely on a voltage drop calculator to ensure that the circuits they design match the necessary criteria. This page provides an overview of the many approaches to calculating voltage drop, making it simpler for engineers to select the strategy that is most suited to their individual projects.
It is vital to have a solid understanding of the voltage drop formula before moving on to the automated approaches. In a DC circuit, the voltage drop, denoted by "V d," can be determined using the following formula:
Where I denote the current and R the resistance, respectively.
When used in an AC circuit, the formula gets more complicated because it must take into account additional parameters, such as power factor and impedance. These factors can be handled by a voltage calculator, but it is vital to grasp the underlying formula in order to troubleshoot and gain a greater understanding of the topic.
A good number of engineers construct their own dc voltage drop calculators by using spreadsheet programs like Excel. The flexibility to tailor the calculator to meet one's own needs is one of the many benefits offered here.
You may simply determine the voltage drop for a variety of circuit designs by entering the relevant circuit variables. In addition, you have the option of utilizing conditional formatting in order to highlight any numbers that are beyond the allowed thresholds.
A voltage drop calculator can be accomplished through the use of a number of specialist software applications. These tools have a graphical user interface that is easier to navigate and is capable of analyzing more complicated circuits, such as those with several branches and components. It is common for the program to have additional features, such as load analysis and component sizing, which enables it to serve as a one-stop solution for electrical design.
There are free voltage drop calculators available on a variety of websites, which can be used to perform calculations quickly. These tools are helpful for performing a quick check.
In spite of this, they offer a straightforward and speedy method for obtaining approximate findings, which is especially useful when time is of the essence.
Calculating voltage drop is an essential task, and there are many different approaches that may be used to do this. A DC voltage drop calculator can be a helpful tool for practical applications, while the voltage drop formula provides the theoretical underpinning for the topic.
Manual calculations, spreadsheets, specialist software, and internet calculators are the various options available to engineers who are looking for the most appropriate way to meet their requirements.
Financial security is one of the fundamental attributes of happiness, as it allows one to feel free in the ever-changing world. However, making a decent living goes beyond standard working conditions, and requires more prompt actions, like investments. One of the most accessible forms of investments is Forex trading, as you can start even when having modest financial funds, yet, decent knowledge on the matter. If you are ready to take decisive steps toward a better future, let’s clarify what you need to know about Forex Trading.
Forex trading, or foreign exchange currency trade, is a kind of financial investment, where the traders choose the currencies and try to predict their behavior against each other - increase or decrease in the rate. Depending on the correctness of the predictions they either earn or lose money.
The basic unit of the Forex exchange trade is a currency pair, where there are two types of currency - base and quote. The ratio of the currencies shows how much of a quote currency is needed to buy one unit of the base one. Basically, the same principle as if you were exchanging money at the exchange point when traveling. Yet this time you buy and sell currency aiming to earn money, not for the sake of exchange.
There are six main currencies that rule the global market and are traded in high volumes: USD (US Dollar), EUR (Euro), GBP (Great British Pound), JPY (Japanese Yen), and CAD (Canadian Dollar).
Currency pairs can be divided into majors, minors, and exotics.
The examples of the major pairs are GBP/USD, EUR/USD, USD/JPY, USD/CAD, and AUD/USD.
Minor pairs - EUR/GBP, GBP/CAD, CAD/JPY, AUD/CAD, CHF/JPY.
The major difference is the liquidity of the currency. Majors are more popular, and thus, more liquid. Besides, majors don’t have dramatic changes in exchange rates. Minors, on the other hand, have a lower level of liquidity, thus, the trading cost and volatility are higher.
Exotics is the combination of major currencies against ones from a developing market. Examples. USD/IDR (Indonesian Rupee), USD/HKD (Hong Kong Dollar), USD/ZAR (South African Rand), USD/THB (Thai Baht), USD/UAH (Ukrainian Hryvnia), USD/NOK (Norwegian Krone), USD/SGD (Singapore Dollar).
Those who are willing to trade the exotics need to understand that smaller markets can easily be destabilized, which causes extreme volatility.
Approaching Forex trade without proper insight into the way things work is the right way to lose the funds. Forex is a global market, therefore, the trading success will depend on the forex knowledgeability (strategies, functions, risk management) and the awareness of global events, as long as they give an impulse to numerous trends and movements within global society, which instantly influences the currency movements.
The next important step is the choice of a broker and the platform.
The broker needs to adhere to the law and regulations, otherwise, your funds will not be protected enough. Check for the licenses from regulators like FCA, BaFin, MAS, ASIC, NFA, and CFTC, as their authority is accepted globally.
Brokers provide access to a platform that makes buying and selling currencies possible. There are two types of platforms - MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5.
MetaTrader4, or mt4, is a good choice if you want to keep things simple and trade forex and CFDs (Contract for difference). MetaTrader 5, or mt5 pc , is created with a more updated programming code, which provides a better speed compared to mt4. Besides, if you are planning on trading stocks and more than one asset, then mt5 will definitely be a better choice.
After choosing a reliable broker, you need to create an account, make the first deposit, and start the trade. The starting deposit depends on the broker and may start even from $5.
However, it is highly recommended to use a demo account first, as it allows you to trade using virtual assets, with no need to use real funds.
Some brokers offer welcome bonuses, or referral bonuses, which is also a worthy option, as you have more chances to trade without spending your own money.
Forex Trade opens a whole world of financial opportunities. It is one of the best forms of financial investments nowadays, however, the initial stage of participation may seem rather daunting due to the large amount of new information and things to learn. Therefore, it is important to be patient and observant. Learn the theory, practice the strategies, be vigilant about the current events in the world, and use all your knowledge when analyzing the currency market. The result will be formed into accurate trading predictions, and thus, your profit and financial well-being.
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting people from different corners of the world, sharing experiences, and shaping cultural trends. Over the past decade, various platforms have emerged, each leaving its mark on the ever-evolving landscape of social media technology. In recent years, TikTok has emerged as a dominant force in the social media realm, not only redefining the way we consume and create content but also influencing the future of social media technology.
TikTok, launched in 2016 by the Chinese company ByteDance, has rapidly gained popularity, amassing billions of users worldwide. Its unique short-form video format, where users can create and share 15 to 60-second video clips, and to get TikTok likes , has revolutionized the way we engage with content. With its user-friendly interface and sophisticated algorithm, TikTok has successfully captivated users of all ages and demographics. But what makes TikTok a game-changer in the social media tech landscape? Let's explore.
One of the standout features of TikTok is its algorithmic content discovery system. Unlike traditional social media platforms, where you primarily see content from people you follow, TikTok's "For You Page" (FYP) presents users with an endless feed of content curated based on their preferences and behavior. This algorithmic approach to content recommendation has been a game-changer for social media.
The algorithm analyzes user behavior, including what videos they like, share, and comment on and how long they spend watching a particular video. It then leverages machine learning to recommend content that aligns with the user's interests. This personalized content delivery keeps users engaged for longer durations and exposes them to a wide variety of content, including new trends, ideas, and creators they might not have discovered otherwise.
This algorithmic approach has influenced other social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, which have started adopting similar recommendation systems. As a result, the future of social media tech is likely to involve more sophisticated algorithms for content discovery, enhancing user engagement and retention.
TikTok's focus on short-form video content has not only resonated with users but has also reshaped the content landscape. The platform's success has spurred a surge in the popularity of short-form video content across the digital sphere. Competitors like Instagram and Snapchat have introduced features such as Instagram Reels and Spotlight to tap into this trend, while YouTube has launched Shorts to compete directly with TikTok.
The dominance of short-form video content has significant implications for the future of social media tech. With attention spans decreasing and the demand for quick, engaging content rising, social media platforms will likely continue to prioritize and innovate in the realm of short-form video. This may lead to advancements in video editing tools, mobile video production capabilities, and more interactive features, ultimately shaping the way we create and consume content.
TikTok's success can largely be attributed to its focus on empowering user creativity. The platform provides users with a wide array of creative tools and effects, making it easy for anyone to produce high-quality, engaging content. From filters and special effects to music libraries and text overlays, TikTok offers a user-friendly and versatile toolkit for content creators.
This emphasis on user creativity has influenced other social media platforms to prioritize content creation tools. Instagram, for example, has introduced features like Instagram Stories, which include interactive stickers, filters, and music integration. Snapchat has also enhanced its creative tools to compete in this user-generated content arena.
In the future, we can expect social media tech to continue evolving to cater to the growing community of content creators. This might involve more advanced editing tools, augmented reality features, and collaborations between platforms and creators to facilitate content creation.
TikTok's global appeal and reach have enabled cultural exchange on an unprecedented scale. The platform has provided a stage for users from different countries and backgrounds to share their culture, traditions, and creativity. TikTok challenges and trends have transcended borders, leading to a global conversation on various topics, from dance challenges to social and political issues.
This globalization aspect of TikTok highlights the potential for social media tech to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. As we move forward, we can anticipate more platforms embracing this concept by facilitating global connections and cultural exchange.
While TikTok has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the future of social media tech, it has also faced its fair share of challenges and concerns. One major concern is user data privacy. TikTok has been scrutinized for its data collection practices, and several countries have expressed security concerns related to the Chinese ownership of the app. This has prompted discussions about the need for more robust data protection measures in the social media tech industry.
Additionally, TikTok has been criticized for its potential to amplify harmful trends and behaviors. The platform's algorithm can sometimes inadvertently promote content that is offensive, misleading, or dangerous. As a result, there is a growing awareness of the responsibility that social media tech companies have in moderating and curating content to ensure user safety and well-being.
As TikTok continues to influence the social media landscape, it is clear that the future of social media tech will be shaped by several key trends and innovations. These include:
In conclusion, TikTok's rise to prominence and its impact on the social media tech landscape has been transformative. Its algorithmic content discovery, emphasis on short-form video, and user-centric creativity have set new standards for the industry. While challenges related to data privacy and content moderation persist, they also highlight the need for responsible innovation in the field. As we look ahead, it's clear that TikTok's influence will continue to shape the future of social media tech, pushing the industry to evolve and adapt to the changing digital landscape.
Web scraping is an invaluable skill in today's data-driven world. However, it must be performed responsibly and efficiently for optimal results. Here are our top 9 best practices that promise smooth execution of your upcoming web scraping projects.
Diving into web scraping can be a truly exciting venture, but it's crucial you understand the basic rules first, and have a handle on Python itself . Before coding your web scraping script in Python:
Also consider performance factors like loading times, as efficiency isn't just about speediness, it's about making sure your process does not negatively affect the host server either.
Image Source: Pexels
Being ethical is as important in the web scraping world as it is elsewhere. One of the critical steps you need to perform before beginning your web scraping project is checking and adhering to a website's 'robots.txt' file. Here’s ours as an example.
This protocol allows websites to communicate directly with web crawlers, guiding them on what content not to scrape or specify delay timings between requests. Ignoring these instructions could lead not only to being blocked by the website but even facing legal repercussions.
By respecting a site's robots.txt rules, you ensure that your Python script follows best practices and maintains good internet citizenship.
Choosing the right parser for your Python web scraping project is like choosing a Swiss army knife. A good parser makes navigating and searching through HTML or XML documents easier, more efficient, and effective. Python offers various parsers but remember that not all are created equal.
To make an informed decision, take into consideration:
Some popular choices include BeautifulSoup (BS4), lxml and html.parser which come with their unique features and limitations. Finding the suitable fit depends on your specific needs , so do trial runs until you find your sweet spot.
Image Source: Pixabay
Web scraping requires a delicate balance, especially regarding the timing between your requests. Bombarding a website with continuous requests can be seen as hostile behavior or even result in suspected DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks, and potentially get you blocked from the site.
Here are some tips to help set suitable delays:
In short, patience pays dividends. Respecting the timing not only allows seamless execution but also establishes you as an ethical scraper who takes care of hosting servers' limitations.
In the realm of web scraping, flying under the radar is often beneficial. This is where proxies come into play. They essentially provide a disguise for your scrape requests by redirecting them through different IPs, which can significantly reduce chances of being blocked by anti-scraping measures.
One excellent way to manage this seamlessly is via data extraction services that offer integrated proxy rotation. For example, ZenRows offers data extraction with rotating proxies. This feature ensures every request appears as though it's coming from a distinct source, maintaining anonymity while keeping your scrapers running smoothly and efficiently.
While not all websites require the usage of proxies, having them as part of your toolkit helps you tackle more complex projects confidently and anonymously.
Image Source: Pixabay
When a website unexpectedly changes its layout or server communication goes awry, your scraper can be left high and dry without a good error handling system. This is where the `try/except` block in Python truly shines, helping you anticipate potential issues and formulate responses to them.
Here are some specific strategies:
In essence, robust error handling keeps you one step ahead of problems. It’s useful to apply this approach to Python errors as well.
Recursive scraping, or delving several layers deep into a website to extract information, is often required in comprehensive web scraping missions. But handling such tasks efficiently and responsibly comes with its own challenges.
Follow these pointers for effective recursive scraping:
Keep in mind that using Python's multithreading functionality allows faster recursion but should be used cautiously so as not to overwhelm the target site. The overall aim should always be to extract maximum valuable data while causing minimum interference.
Once you've successfully scraped data, the next challenge is managing and storing that information effectively. Given Python's versatility, different storage options can be used based on your project's needs.
Here are a few commonly used methods:
Good organization of gathered data is crucial as it forms the basis of any further analysis or processing you might plan. Evaluate each option carefully, considering scalability, accessibility and cost implications of each choice before making a decision.
Once data has been scraped and stored, the final step often involves cleaning. This process, also known as data sanitization, ensures that your dataset is in a suitable pristine state for further use.
Here are some steps to keep in mind:
A well-cleaned dataset makes subsequent analyses more reliable and meaningful. Implementing thorough post-scrape clean-up operations will guarantee time well spent when you delve into your analytics later on.
Web scraping with Python, when done correctly and responsibly, can generate valuable results. By following these best practices, you'll not only be effective but also respectful of the web's ecosystem. Just don’t expect to master this skill overnight, and you’ll be setting yourself up for successful scraping ventures going forward.
Hi, I hope you all are doing great. Today we are talking about the silkscreen on the printed circuit boards (PCBs). We know that PCBs are the essential parts of electronic devices, and there are a variety of PCBs for different circuits. Generally, silkscreening is the process of surface printing with the help of a design cut out on a sheet. But, we are particularly talking about the silkscreen on the PCB.
It is a crucial step in the PCB design and plays a role during the PCB assembly to make sure the PCB is designed well. Generally, silkscreen is used to provide basic information about the components on the PCBs. This article has a silkscreen introduction, types, and methods.
The PCB Silkscreen is a layer of non-electric permanent epoxy ink present in the form of text or different graphics on the surface of PCBs. The basic use of silkscreen is to provide information, which may be the names, types, and polarity of the components. Moreover, it also includes information about the manufacturing company, such as its name or logo.
Silkscreen is also known as labelling or serigraphy and is the main technique in different industries. It is highly useful during the process of fabrication to verify the component's placement. Therefore, the PCB silkscreen helps the assembler, identify the perfect place for the components.
Multiple PCB companies offer services for prototype and assembly, and one of the most suitable names among them is PCBWay. It is a China-based company that is known for its quick services with no quality compromise. They provide the most reliable boards, and their critical testing system is responsible for the best results and top-quality PCBs.
Another advantage of choosing PCBWay Fabrication House is the competitive prices because they directly take orders and there is no need for any broker to buy the PCBs. The quick turnaround time, wide range of products, high-quality latest machines, and online status of the orders are the most significant features of PCBWay.
The PCB silkscreen varies depending on the design and type of the PCB, but there are some basic components of silkscreen that must be included in all silkscreens. Here are some of these:
The silkscreen is a crucial tool for the perfect assembly of the PCBs. It makes sure that all the components are placed accurately and that the PCB is functioning well. There are multiple reasons to use the silkscreen, and the most important among these are given next:
The component side of the PCB is the one where all the components of the PCB are to be mounted. The silkscreen is important to indicate the right place of the components, such as the resistors, inductors, capacitors, etc. The user simply has to follow the design on the silkscreen, and the PCB is ready to use.
Many components of the circuit are polarized, such as the diode, capacitors (polarized), integrated circuits, etc. For such places in the PCB, the silkscreen has different indications, such as dots or other symbols, to identify the right direction. This facilitates the user a lot, and it is also vital for the PCB's health when the electricity passes through the circuit because the component set at the wrong polarity may damage the PCB.
Silkscreen also provides information about the manufacturers, so the users do not have any difficulty dealing with the PCBs. This is because every manufacturer has a specific set of working rules. This information may include the following points:
This helps the users at different levels, whether they are manufacturing, placing, or using the PCB.
The silkscreen makes the PCB more attractive. These are printed in a contrasting colour to the PCB surface. In this way, the PCB looks more neat and pleasing. The better the quality of the silkscreen, the better it looks. For this, more appealing colours of the silkscreen are used to enhance the texture and design.
One must know that the PCBWay offers multiple colours of ink for customers, including yellow, green, white, and black. In this way, the customers can choose the specification of PCB silkscreen of their own choice. PCBWay also provides a variety of fonts and designs; therefore, all the controls in the customer’s hand and the proper guidance of PCBWay at each step help to make your creativity live.
There are several ways of producing silkscreen and the manufacturers select the most accurate by keeping some parameters in mind. Some of such parameters are the material of the PCB, cost, creation, and manufacturer of the silkscreen. Some of the most important methods that you must know are given here:
This technique is known for its high-resolution results, and it does not require a printing plate because it uses liquid plates. An advantage of using it is its ability to avoid shorts and maintain the PCB’s electrical integrity. This method uses liquid curable inks that are cured with UV lights. A design is applied to the lights so that only the required area is hardened, and then the unwanted part is removed. This design is now used for the silkscreening process on PCBs.
When the laser is applied to the protective layer of the PCB, the copper underneath is exposed and as a result, the PCB is ready for more processes.
This is the most traditional method for PCB silkscreen and is also known as Hand screen printing for PCB. In this process, the stencil is created on the mesh. The ink is applied to the mesh, and a squeegee is used to force the ink onto the surface of the PCB. The mesh or stencil has a specific design according to the requirements, and as a result, the silkscreen is printed on the surface.
The principle of this type of printing is the same as that of the inkjet printer. The high-speed inkjet printer is used to print the board directly. The acrylic ink is applied directly to the CAD data. This ink is then cured with UV lights during the printing process. Usually, DLP is applied to the PCB after the application of the solder mask. This is a quick method that involves fewer steps, but the users get high efficiency and precision. Moreover, factors such as setting the font size and style are under the control of the designers.
Name of Technique |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Liquid Photo Imaging |
Precision, Requires less area |
More time and ink are required to set |
Manual Screen Printing |
Cost-effective, Easy to use |
Require larger area, Not suitable for large-volume |
Direct Legend Printing |
Low dry time, Highest accuracy |
Can not apply to silver-based PCBs |
If we talk about the prominent name dealing with the silkscreen then the PCBWay is one of the best options. It provides all these methods to their buyers and also guides them about the best choice of silkscreen they must have. Moreover, they provide versatility in the design options to make your PCB exceptional. I hope you have gotten all the information you were searching for. The silkscreen is a crucial process during the manufacturing of PCBs. It provides facilitation for the user and manufacturer. There are multiple ways of PCB silkscreen manufacturing, and the user has to choose the best according to the circuit. If you need some help with the topic, you can contact us.
Hi learner! I hope you are doing great. Today, I am sharing version 3.0 of the PIR sensor library for Proteus. We have already shared V1.0 and V2.0 of the PIR Sensor Library. PIR Sensor V1.0 Library for Proteus adds a digital PIR Sensor in Proteus, while the PIR Sensor V2.0 Library adds an analog PIR Sensor to simulate. These libraries were loved by the users and this motivated us to work more on it.
PIR V3.0 is analog in nature, has an error-free structure and the Pinout structure is better organized. Moreover, the design is improved a little bit and we have omitted the website link from the sensor to make it look professional.
Same as the previous version, this PIR has four pins and the details of each of them will be discussed in detail later. Therefore, don’t worry if you have no experience with the sensors in Proteus. Let's discuss the basic introduction of the PIR sensor:
| Where To Buy? | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. | Components | Distributor | Link To Buy | |
| 1 | Battery 12V | Amazon | Buy Now | |
| 2 | Resistor | Amazon | Buy Now | |
| 3 | LCD 20x4 | Amazon | Buy Now | |
| 4 | PIR Sensor | Amazon | Buy Now | |
| 5 | Arduino Uno | Amazon | Buy Now | |
Here are a few of the Embedded Projects in which we have used PIR sensor, you should have a look:
Generally, the real-time PIR sensor has three pins and these are used for different purposes. It is important to connect all of these correctly to get the output. Here is the description of each pin:
If these pins are set properly, the circuit works fine. The sensor we have designed has a fourth terminal called TestPin. Proteus is the simulation software therefore, it is not possible to provide the motion. TestPin is used to provide the motion by the user.
We know that Proteus does not have a built-in PIR sensor therefore, we have created this library so that you may use it in the circuits. For this, you have to download and install the PIR Sensor library in your proteus software. Here is the download link for the installation, simply download the zip file.
PIR Sensor Library for Proteus V3.0
The zip file has another folder named “Proteus simulations” where you can find the resources of projects containing simple working of PIR Sensor and PIR Sensor interfaced with Arduino UNO and LCD.
Now, open your Proteus software and if was opened already, restart it to index the PIR sensor library with it.
Here, you can see it has the minimum text on it and the size is smaller than the previous version so that you may fix it in your large and complex projects without any problem. Now, I am deleting two sensors and will work only on the remaining two.
This sensor will not work unless you add the HEX file to it. For this, follow the steps given:
Now, we will design two circuits of PIR sensor V3.0. The first will be simply made with the basic components and the other one will have the Arduino UNO interfaced with the LCD so that we may get the more user-friendly results. Let's hover over your Proteus workspace to make the simple PIR circuit.
The following Components are required for setting the PIR sensor.
Go to the “Pick library” button type the names of the components one by one and select them.
The real-time PIR sensor does not require the LC circuit but in Proteus, the peak-to-peak values are generated which needs to be converted into RMS values and that's why we used this LC filter.
Now, hit the play button to check the values of the PIR sensor.
Now, if you want to make your project more user-friendly, an LCD is the best option. To link these, I have used the Arduino UNO and through the code, the values of the PIR reading are shown on the LCD. I have interfaced the TEP LCD 20X4 with the Arduino and simply connected the output of PIR with the analog pin of Arduino. The circuit now looks like the following image:
Once your simulation is ready, you have to paste the code into Arduino.exe.Open your software and paste the given code there.
#include
// initialize the library with the numbers of the interface pins
LiquidCrystal lcd(13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8);
int SensorPin = A0;
void setup() {
// set up the LCD's number of columns and rows:
lcd.begin(20, 4);
// Print a message to the LCD.
lcd.setCursor(1,0);
lcd.print("www.TheEngineering");
lcd.setCursor(4,1);
lcd.print("Projects.com");
lcd.setCursor(0,2);
lcd.print("Analog Value: ");
lcd.setCursor(0,3);
lcd.print("Voltage: ");
}
void loop() {
int SensorValue = analogRead(SensorPin);
float SensorVolts = analogRead(SensorPin)*0.0048828125;
lcd.setCursor(14, 2);
lcd.print(SensorValue);
lcd.setCursor(9, 3);
lcd.print(SensorVolts);
lcd.print(" V");
delay(1000);
// sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin);
// lcd.setCursor(4,2);
// lcd.print(sensorValue);
// delay(1000);
}
The same code is also given in the zip file you have downloaded.
When the code is run on the Arduino.exe, it provides the HEX file in the compilation details. You have to copy the address of the HEX file and insert it into the Arduino in Proteus. For this, follow these steps:
Go to the Proteus and double-click on the Arduino to open the properties panel. Now paste the path of the HEX file here. The circuit is now ready to work. If you are stuck at this step, you should have a look at How to get Hex File from Arduino.
Now it's time to run the simulation. So hit the Play button and you will see that the output is shown on the screen.
The analog values can be changed through the potentiometer of the testPin. The analog values of the motion sensor along with the voltages are shown on the LCD. I hope your circuit worked the same as mine. If you are facing any type of issue, you can contact us.