How to Find Real Estate Buyers by the Dozen

Buyers are out there, it's just a matter of rounding them up and keeping in touch. It helps to be able to determine which type of buyer you are hunting for from the start. Remember this: you're the person who has something they want when a buyer calls you; if you are calling them then you are trying to sell them, let's insure buyers call you so you remain in the position of power from the start. You should Be a Real Estate Heavy Weight.

Let's look at a few categories of typical buyers to get some perspective on their mindsets and how and when we'll market to find them in order to supply their real estate buying needs.

o Rehabbers: These are folks looking to fix and flip property for quick turn profits.
o Landlords: These are folks looking to buy to rent out to others for long-term equity accrual while generating a positive cash-flow every month.
o Wholesaler's: Will either buy or put an option on your contract to hopefully flip the paper to another buyer who is willing to pay more.
o Lease Option end-buyers: These are folks who can't qualify for a loan of their own but want to be home owners as opposed to renters again.
o Retail Buyers: These are end buyers who can obtain a mortgage or have cash and generally buy the property for their own housing needs.

There are variations of buyers out there but the above 4 types are generally considered the prime targets of people who have property to sell. Understanding each buyer's mindset helps you to market to those buyers interests, do they want quick cash, long-term wealth, tax deductions, a place to call home etc... If you ask enough general questions you'll quickly discern which type of buyer you have at hand. Once you know, you can then tailor your offers and present properties that satisfy what is important to them.

Buyer: Someone who is ready, willing and qualified! Those that aren't qualified may be perfect tenants, lease option buyers or owner finance candidates, so qualified can have different meanings.

Ready: Someone who is in the market to buy within 1-45 days, keep in mind a retail or lease option end-buyer generally buys once and they're out of the game, landlords, rehabbers and wholesaler's are more likely to buy multiple properties from you over time as they accumulate, sell or flip existing assets. Having active buyer's lists in different categories that are often ready to buy property is a very smart way to operate.

Gee Danno, how do I find these people? Ah! I'm so glad you asked! Let's start out with one of the all time greatest methods to kick-start your building a buyers list. In your search for bargain priced properties of your own, it makes sense that you will eventually find a very good deal, once you have a superior deal to offer you turn around and market that property at cost! Yep, no profit for you on this one. Why? Because you are going to advertise that property to every investor and potential property buyer on the planet!
The reason for this is that you will get the most calls and response when you advertise a screaming deal! Granted you'll most likely sell that deal relatively quickly but you'll be gathering information from each potential buyer who calls to build your buyers list for future properties that you offer. If you don't have a property of your own to sell, ask someone who does! I can assure you that they aren't going to turn down your offer to advertise their property for them for free! You might negotiate a small fee if in fact you do sell their property but your main objective is to build you buyers list!

Let me give you an example of one way to collect potential buyers by the dozen, hold an auction, advertise for a solid week in advance so you attract the most amount of buyers, begin with bandit signs, placing about 100 of them around a 5 square mile area of the property, we just did this and had 800 calls because it was a great deal of those 800 calls we had 300 people show up on auction day, of course the home sold but we also added new buyers to our buyers list.

Here are ways to advertise for those buyers:

o Bandit Signs
o CraigsList
o Backpage
o GoogleBase
o Postlets
o Zillow
o Pay Per Click Ads
o Local online Classifieds
o Media Website
o Flyers
o Newspaper/inserts
o REIA's
o Direct mail/post cards
o Start an investors MeetUp group
o Email
o Phone
o Fax
o Your own website

Use your imagination, the list is limitless, there is a free e-book called the Internet Real Estate Yellow Pages that you can download for free at my site MagicBullets.com go grab that and you'll find 100 more ideas and places to list your deals. Now go Be A Real Estate Heavyweight!


Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How to Find Real Estate Deals

The truth is that you can find great real estate deals going on all the time. You just need to know where to look or have others on the lookout for you. Have you ever heard people say that "It's not what you know; it's WHO you know that counts"? Well this can be absolutely true when it comes to learning how to find great deals.

The quality of your network will ultimately have an important impact on your net worth. But your network should not begin and end with other real estate professionals. True, networking and getting to know other people in your field is essential to building your business.



But don't overlook the other important people that are crucial to finding great deals. Take a few moments and plan out your strategy for finding these great investment opportunities by gaining the attention, cooperation, and loyalty of integral pieces to the investing puzzle: the people you never talk to that you see every single day.

These people hold the keys to your fortune (even if they drive a garbage truck). They may be the server who brings you a meal, the clerk who takes your dry cleaning, the person that cuts your hair, or your mailperson, among others. You never know where your next lead is going to come from. The knowledge and inside information of who needs what, who has what, and who's looking for what lies untapped in the head of every single person you meet, and so you can find motivated sellers by networking.

You can find investors and private lenders by networking. You can find tenants by networking. You can absolutely have others help you find property by word of mouth, and doing all these things every day can make you a very rich investor. As you're mapping out your winning strategy for investing, keep this in mind: in this business, just like in life, your positive and strong relationships with other people are the greatest assets you can ever have. Thus, networking is an extremely important part of enhancing your investing success.

Networking with like-minded individuals, other investors, and professionals who can help you on your journey to success, can help investors like you and I find great real estate deals. However, it's networking with people NOT in the real estate business that can often bear the BEST fruit: the very best deals available.



Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How to Find Real Estate Properties For Cheap

I am sure you are well aware of the hundreds of advertisements that lure you in to finding new homes at ridiculously low prices. While many of these advertisements may seem like a dream, you can indeed find the home of your dreams for pennies on the dollar. In fact, you do not have to spend large sums of money in order to obtain a home that's fit for a king or queen.

Given the current status of the real estate market, these properties are easier to come by, however, the process of attaining one of these homes is indeed riddled with tons of paperwork. Therefore, it is important to keep this in mind when searching for properties on the cheap.

Are cheap properties a pipe dream?

Did you know that you can find a home for about as much as you are paying for in rent? If the time has come for you to move into a new home or to invest in real estate, by simply knowing where to look and utilizing the proper resources, you can indeed locate home auctions or dirt cheap foreclosures to help you obtain the home of your dreams.

In fact, a great deal of the properties that you come across are the direct result of homeowners either being forced out of their homes or not being able to pay their mortgage on time. Because of this, the bank is left with tons of properties on their hands. In an attempt to liquidate their assets, banks will sell these homes at below marketplace value prices either in an auction setting or to private investors.


Because lenders and banks do not want to keep this surplus on their hands, many times they are more than willing to sell you a home at bargain prices, which in turn benefits both the lender and you.

How to begin your search for cheap properties?

If you don't know where to begin your search for bargain priced homes, the greatest place to start is your local newspaper. Most newspapers advertise home auction sales as well as liquidation sales for both banks and private sellers.


Other resources that you can use to find cheap properties also include real estate magazines, radio advertisements, online listings, and private services that are designed specifically to compile large lists of homes to be sold at auction.

In most cases, it is best that you begin your search utilizing local resources. Your county clerk assessor may sometimes carry a list of homes that are soon to be sold at auction. However, it is important to realize that you do not have to stick to just your county when searching for foreclosed homes.

If you are serious about your search for bargain home sales, you will go beyond looking at just your county and instead look to counties several cities over. By doing so, you are able to compare what is available and where the best deals can be found.

Additionally, when looking for foreclosed homes, there are those times when you don't even need to get on your feet and hit the ground running. Instead you can take the online route which allows you to search for millions of homes with the click of a button.

Whichever route you decide to take, keep in mind that whatever work that will go into improving the house you purchase should also be considered in the price range of the homes you seek to buy.

Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How to Find Real Estate on the Internet

There are multiple real estate Internet websites to find real estate, whether it's a foreclosure, for sale by owner or Realtor websites.

Before you start your hunt, decide what type of property you are looking for. Here are some websites to check out.

Foreclosure Websites

Yahoo.com has a host of information on finding foreclosures, articles, and statistics.

According to Yahoo.com, the following cities rank in the top ten for finding foreclosures:

Merced, CA
Modesto, CA
Stockton, CA
Riverside, CA
Detroit, MI
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Cape Coral, FL
Vallejo, CA
Las Vegas, NV
Sacramento, CA

If you are interested in buying foreclosures, you may want to start with those areas.

If you are selling or leasing real estate, you can buy advertising on Yahoo. For more information, please visit their website.

Foreclosures.com is another site. They have information on foreclosures, mortgages and other real estate resources.

Check out Realtytrac.com for information, auction information, find for sale by owners, real estate agents and much more.

For Sale by Owner

Craig's List is another good place to find and advertise real estate. It is a hotbed of For sale by owners and foreclosure properties. Check the Craig's list site in your area.

Government Sites

HUD.com (Housing and Urban Development Agency) offers a wealth of information on housing counseling, loans and homes for sale.

Fannie Mae properties are listed for sale with local Realtors. Their website has resources for finding a Realtor and Fannie Mae loan programs.

Realtor Websites

If you are interested in buying short sales or bank foreclosures, you may want to check with local Realtors in the area who can find these properties for you in the MLS (multiple listing service).

Using the Internet to locate your investment property is a great tool. You should view the property in person to make sure it meets your criteria. There are companies that will sell you properties on the Internet, but to avoid risks, it's best to do your own physical inspections.

Realtor.com is another website to find homes for sale. Realtors advertise their listings on this website.

Investor Websites

Many investors have their own websites to advertise their inventory. Wholesalers and investors all use the Internet to market their property and themselves, attracting other investors and buyers.

If you are going to market your business on the Internet, you need to pay attention to search engine optimization, search engines, pay per click ads, offer reports and interesting information and resources. I recommend hiring a professional to design your website and get you up and running as well.

The Internet is a valuable resource and tool to use to buy and sell real estate, market yourself and your business, find buyers and meet other investors.


Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How To Find Real Estate in MD, DC & VA For 50% Off!

Real Estate for .50 cents on the dollar.

With the sub prime market being absolutely unpredictable, investors can not depend on their buyers to come through with loans. Try this little technique of acquiring property. It will help you to survive as a Real Estate Investor in Maryland, DC and Virginia.

Stop looking online and finding REO (bank-owned) properties to buy. Find an agent and tell them you want to make about 30 offers a month on REOs that have been listed for 180 days or more. Tell the agent to make the offers at 50% of the listing price and make them contingent upon inspection. Each time the bank asks for a counter, send the offer back $5000 less. Of course, all of the offers won't be accepted, but if you can get two or so accepted out of 30+, you have hit the jackpot. All you need to do is fund the deals using cash, private money, hard money or other sources. Agents are not super-busy right now, so they will jump all over this idea.

The reason this technique is going to help you survive as a real estate investor is you don't have to count on traditional loans that aren't dependable right now. Just find a hard money lender. They are listed right in the yellow pages. Most will lend on properties that are 70% below market minus repairs. This method leaves enough of a spread to add any repairs right into your loan. Many hard money lenders don't even care about your credit rating, they decide whether to loan you the money based on the deal. Don't let the cost of money discourage you from using hard money lenders. The availability of money is more valuable than the cost. Look at your bottom line after the deal is done. Acquiring half priced real estate, will ensure your survival as a Real Estate Investor!

Supporting your Real Estate Investor Success,

Valarie Jacobs
http://www.valariejacobs.com

Learn Real Estate Investing in Maryland!
Learn Real Estate Investing in DC!
Learn Real Estate Investing in Virginia !


Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How To Find Real Estate Leads

Real estate investing can be a lucrative way to make a living. Whether you are a seasoned investor or just starting out, the dilemma of where to find good real estate leads is paramount to your success. With plentiful amounts of leads, you can pick and choose the best options for you. You will also increase your chances of closing more deals, more often.

First and foremost, get yourself out there. Talk to as many people as possible about your interest in finding real estate leads. Many times a relative, neighbor, or friend can point you in the direction of someone they know who is interested in selling a property. Networking with other people in the industry is another good way to spread the word. Make a point to attend relevant seminars and events, and be sure to have business cards on hand. Join the local real estate association or club. Other professionals are a good source of information on where to find current leads.

Advertise in as many ways as possible. An ad on Craigslist, in real estate magazines, or newspapers are all good ideas. Another good way to advertise is through flyers and signs placed in strategic locations with memorable images. Pictures and photos catch the eye more than just a text ad. Using a 1-800 vanity number that is easily remembered will increase your response rates. People will remember you weeks and even months later when they are ready to sell their homes. Postcards and letters can be mass mailed to hot markets in the area.

The internet is your most valuable tool. To be successful in generating real estate leads, a website with a page to capture information is a must have. These days, almost everyone turns to the internet when they want to sell something. This includes houses and other properties. A good programmer and web designer can help you create the ideal site for you. Once again, make sure your site is memorable and has a professional look to it. Make sure you are easily accessible to potential clients.

Lastly, there is always the option of buying your real estate leads online. There are many companies that sell them. However, beware of this option. It is important to do your homework on these companies. Things to watch out for are if the leads are fresh, if they are sold to multiple people, and if they are guaranteed.

With a research and hard work, you can find the leads you need to make your business a success. With today's economy and market in its current state, there are many good opportunities out there to make some great deals in the industry.



Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How to Find Real Estate Investing Leads For Free

One of the ways to find leads is "word of mouth". It's really important that everybody you know is aware that you are into real estate. You're the person they know that buys houses. You never know where your next deal will be coming from. We spend a lot of time and effort to generate leads, and sometimes it is right in front of our faces if we just went out there and talked to more people about it. When I was new in the business, I was real self-conscious about it and shy before I did a lot of deals. You are what you think you are and by talking about it, it is more likely to happen to you. Make sure that the people you hang out with know that you are a real estate investor and looking for deals. You don't have to let them know what kind of deals you are looking for, but let them know you are always looking to buy houses and getting deals on property. As those people stumble across deals or hear of other people selling houses, they are most likely to refer people to you. It is also a good idea to mention to people that you pay for referrals. My business card says on the back of it, $200 or $250 will come to you if you bring me a house for sale. If we buy it, you get $200.

Secondly, you should have business cards with you. Leave them around. I have two different types of business cards. I've got my business card that says on there that "we buy houses, cash reward paid, find me a house, we pay $200", etc. Those are the ones I leave around at a restaurant or at a gas station on top of the gas pump, or wedge them on the sign. If I go to the bank I will leave a couple of them on the counter. I just give them to people randomly and let them know I buy houses. I have another card that is a little more professional that has my name, business name, and my logo on there. I give that one to lenders, bankers, and tenants. The bright colored ones are best for leaving them at gas stations and restaurant. There is another type that looks like a folded $100 bill that people will pick up even if you leave it on the ground. You just never know where your next deal comes from. Most deals come from our direct marketing, but every now and then, you get a call out of the blue from someone who has your card.

Another cheap way is to put a sign on your car. Of course, it depends if your Spouse will let you do it. For a long time, I had a magnetic sign on my car that said, "I Buy Houses" on it with my phone number on it. I didn't get a lot of calls on it, but once in awhile, I would. They are pretty cheap, too. I paid about $20 or $30 for two of them. I'll never forget the first day I put those on my car. I did get a call on the first day I put that on my car, from a seller and will never forget it. Of course, I didn't get a call every day, but remember, one deal can make a huge amount of money.

Bandit signs are another cheap way to get leads. There are people that run their entire businesses with bandit signs. A bandit sign is simply a sign that can say, "We Buy Houses" with a phone number on it. That is really all it has to say, although you should test to see if different areas do better with this or that on it. Some people put, "We Buy Houses, Any Price, Area, or Condition". They go out and put up 50 or so at a time. You can get a lot of calls right now when the market is stagnant. I guarantee you, if you go out and put out 20 or so of these, you will get some phone calls. Please note that some towns have laws against putting up bandit signs. It will be worth a call to city hall. Sometimes they don't allow it in the city, but allow it on the outskirts. Usually, it is safe to put them where you have seen them already there for awhile, placed by other people. Keep it simple. Put them where people tend to slow down, like at stop signs or where people are parking. Use common sense. Avoid highways where people are going 55 m.p.h. and can't stop to write down a phone number. One place I see them near my home is near exit ramps where you get off of the highway. That's a good place too. You might even want to put your website address on there, as well. Also, a lot of people use a recording instead of taking the calls, and drive the buyers to a recording, and will put "Free Recorded Message" on the sign. A lot of people might be more likely to call because they are afraid of getting a sales pitch. If you put "Free Recorded Message" on it, get a 800 number, or get a message set up on it that says who you are, and let them know what your business is all about with your contact information on it. Or ask them to leave a message.

Another cheap or free way to get leads is to use the classified websites that are available. That is a great place to get the word out that you are a house buyer. There are real estate and service sections. Try different areas and post your ads there that say, "We Buy Houses, Any Price, Area, or Condition" or even go into more details if you like. When someone is a motivated seller, you don't need to be a fancy writer. Just get your ads out there.

There are even services out there that will get your message sent to people with iPhones. That's not a free way, but it's about.03 a message sent to iPhones.

You can also recruit bird dogs on a website. I have a website that I use to recruit bird dogs. Granted, when you put up a website to have people come to bring you houses, I don't get a lot, but I get some. Some of them do go to work and have found me lots of deals. Don't be afraid to put the word out this way.

Go ahead and put up a website or a blog for free to get the word out. It doesn't have to be fancy, just put your information out there with a picture. In 2 hours' time, you can get a blog set up. It's real easy. It will be good enough to get some people to pick up the phone and call you. Good Luck!



Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

How A Few Real Estate Investors Help Rebuild The Economy, One Home At A Time

We have written before on how you can find previously undiscovered deals at smaller firms, and how their buyer incentive programs can get you a good home on your terms. But, did you know that there are a few select real estate investors who rebuild the economy of an area at the same time? While the country is waiting for the economy to rebound on a larger scale, these investors are taking matters into their own hands and helping the economy along, one community at a time, one home at a time.

Step One: Purchase Unused Properties

By purchasing properties that have been abandoned or left empty for too long, these real estate investors rebuild the economy of a small town by removing potential eyesores that could essentially bring down the property values of an area. The purchase also takes these properties off the delinquent tax rolls, providing needed tax revenue for the township in which these properties lie.

Step Two: Renovation

After the homes are purchased, each one is evaluated for renovation. These few real estate investors have as part of its business model, the desire to improve the economy as well as the lives of those who would purchase these properties at a later date. Each and every home undergoes a complete renovation, not only bringing them up to code, but also to a complete green status.

Each home is improved and energy efficient systems are put into place for future owners to enjoy. This also helps to improve the future of the towns where these homes reside, by doing their part to improve the ecology of the area, lowering the drain of these homes on the power grid, and reducing their carbon footprint for future generations to come. More importantly, unemployment in the area is eased through the hiring of local, skilled contractors and employees for the duration of the renovations. They always have projects going on, so employment is assured for far longer than the short-term.

Step Three: Giving Those Who Deserve It A Break

Once the homes are ready to be resold, they are offered on the general market, and advertised on the Internet for sale. No one is turned away on the basis of bad credit, never. Everyone deserves to own their own home, and these firms go out of their way to provide that chance to every deserving applicant that they can.

Through their bad credit financing programs, as well as their rent-to-own arrangements, these real estate investors rebuild the economy by giving potential homeowners the chance to finance the home of their dreams when other institutions have turned them down. An Investor will work with them, step-by-step, helping them apply for financing through their own network of direct mortgage lenders. If they do not make the grade, it is not the end of the road. Instead, they are offered a lease-to-own package, allowing them to rebuild their credit, and save up for the down payment at the same time.


Tag:-market analysis real estat, how to find real estate investors, real estate forecasts, market research real estate, real estate growth, real estate technology, real estate market trends,leading economic indicators

Purchasing A Radar Detector

You collect a lot of speeding tickets in a month that is not only getting expensive but also increasing your insurance premium. Well, if your answer is yes then you definitely need a radar detector in your car. This product is a device that is actually a microwave radio detector. With this device you can detect the speed traps set by police and also the presence of radar guns that the police use to measure the speed of the vehicle. Hence as soon as the speed approaches you can decrease the speed of the vehicle and become a good abiding citizen.

The detector warns a driver by making a noise or by giving flash lights as soon as it senses any incoming signal within its frequency range. All radar detectors that you get in the market can detect every type of police radar. But if you are looking for a good quality product then Valentine radar detector is one good choice that you can make. However, before you purchase a detector first find out whether it is legal in the given area where you drive. Presently, in the US this product are illegal in Washington, DC and Virginia. The price of the product varies depending on the type of model you are purchasing.

There are generally three types of radar detectors. They are corded ones, remote ones and wireless ones. In the corded radar detector, the device is plugged in the cigarette lighter of the car and the detector is attached to the windshield with the help of suction cups. In the wireless model you get no annoying cords and its flexibility makes it a more popular choice.

The remote one is the costliest and requires to be installed professionally. This product is installed permanently in your car and remains inconspicuous. The easiest way to purchase radar detector is through online. Valentine model of this product is now quite popular in the market.


Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry

Radar Detectors- Help for First Time Buyers

Observing posted speed limits is obviously the most reliable method of avoiding costly speeding tickets. However, as most of us know, whether it is a lapse in attention, failure to see all posted signs, an instance of impatience, or a fear of being late, we all exceed the limit on occasion. For just these reasons, millions of drivers opt to invest in radar detectors to avoid the fines. Although radar detectors are banned in some countries and provinces, they are legal for passenger cars in all states in the US with the exception of Virginia and Washington DC.

There is a wide selection of radar detectors on the market and quite a bit of terminology to confuse first time buyers. However, the list of critical features that make a radar detector effective is rather short and once understood should make the purchasing decision a simple one.

The first choice a buyer will make is whether to purchase a corded, cordless, or remote unit radar detector. Corded radar detectors are the most common and can plug into a cigarette lighter or fuse box and are attached to the windshield. Buyers often choose corded radar detectors because they can be installed by the owner in seconds and don't require batteries. The other primary reason for choosing these particular devices is that they are capable of detecting all bands of radar signals.

Cordless radar detectors on the other hand are sometimes selected as they offer freedom from cords. Unfortunately, these devices are generally less effective however as they do not pick up all bands and have a more restricted range than corded models. Remote units are permanently mounted elsewhere on the car and are often selected as they cannot be seen by thieves or law enforcement. Remote devices are generally higher priced and require professional installation.

Since the purpose of a radar detector is to provide warning that drivers in the area are being monitored, it is important that the device pick up the bands being used and that the warning provided is sufficient. Buyers need to compare radar detectors as far as the distance at which they will sense a radar signal. Obviously, devices that sense a signal from a longer distance provide more warning and thus greater protection. To be functional, a radar detector should be able to pick up X, K, and Ka bands to assure that they will pick up the signals being used for monitoring purposes.

Another critical feature on a radar detector is how effective the alert is when a signal is picked up. The display should be easy to read, in daylight or at nighttime. Radar detectors often use LED but others use LCD displays. New buyers should determine which type of display best meets their personal needs. For instance, some prefer a text display but others feel the LCD display is difficult to see in the sunlight.

Some displays do a better job of indicating how strong a signal is so that the driver knows whether or not the threat of being detected is imminent. Obviously, having both a visual and auditory alert is important as a visual only alert could be missed.

Some radar detectors offer digital voice alerts versus an alarm only alert. Experienced radar detector owners would also recommend volume control and a mute button! Some devices will even offer an automated mute that is activated when driving in slower traffic when both speeding violations and monitoring are less likely.

Many radar detectors also offer features that allow the sensitivity to be adjusted to help reduce alerting the driver when radar signals are picked up from other sources: i.e. a "city mode" decreases sensitivity in urban areas where signals are picked up from security and other systems within buildings and equipment. The ability to filter out unrelated signals helps to reduce false warnings.

Some consumers also prefer to have a feature to shield them from having their device detected. Some devices shut down after alerting the driver and others use signals to shield them without shutting down.

Obviously, one of the newer methods of monitoring drivers are cameras at intersections with traffic lights. Beginning in 2007, some radar detectors will be offered which are capable of alerting drivers to these monitoring cameras and might be a valuable feature for some buyers.

A final, but very important feature that buyers will need to consider is whether or not the device they are considering offers laser detection. Certainly the use of laser guns by law enforcement has continued to increase and buyers have incomplete protection if their device monitors only radar signals. Laser is particularly useful to monitor drivers that are closer than what can be accurately measured by radar. This in turn means that drivers who are monitored by laser signals have even less time to react. Good laser protection requires placement of a head or sensor on the front of the car, usually in the grill, and additional sensors to provide 360 degree sensing to assure all signals can be picked up.

As with most electronics, there are radar detectors with all the bells and whistles, all of the features to assure maximum protection, and they may be well worth the investment for those drivers who hope to avoid expensive speeding tickets. For others however there are also very basic devices which provide a crucial warning but are easily affordable within almost any budget.



Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry

Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar

There are many methods of generating maps of the different regions having differences in terrain. Interferometric synthetic aperture radar uses the radar technique for making maps. This method is commonly used in remote sensing methods for preparing maps volcanoes, land surfaces, landslides etc.

Natural mishaps happening in different parts of the world are monitored by the experts using the techniques of remote sensing and geodesy. The concept is of allowing the waves from the objects and captured by the satellite or from an aircraft. Elevation and deformation can be easily measured with the help of Interferometric synthetic aperture radar.

Following pointers describe about Interferometric synthetic aperture radar:

1. There are two types of remote sensing techniques and this technique is the part of the active remote sensing. Instruments are moved near the surface of the earth and also near to the objects whose study is to be performed. The frequency of taking images is quite different and images can be captured even at night time. This technique has great advantage of day and night usage.

2. If the area is covered by clouds then also there is no problem in taking the images. Antenna is required to transmit the radiations which are received from the objects captured by the frequencies of electromagnetic and microwave. The phase difference is utilized in the calculation of the mapping surface features. If the vacuum is used for acquiring images then certainly the enhanced quality will be available.

3. Ground surface may change the phase of the returned frequencies. Different types of satellites are used in the process and help is taken from different satellites moving in different orbits. The images of different orbital satellites are incomparable and slight difference can cause blunders.

4. Noise is also accompanied by the signals of different frequencies. The change is the signal is measured by the Interferometric synthetic aperture radar. Sensors easily measure the changes in the angles caused by some difference in surfaces. Deformation can clearly be understood as the signals are captured by the sensors.

5. Baseline has impact on the collection of data. Different images can be obtained the latest technology and programming of Interferometric synthetic aperture radar allows the capturing of the images. There are many hindrances in the path of the signals due to atmospheric elements. Nowadays soft wares contribute in processing of the images.



Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry

Improve Your English Vocabulary Through Physics: Part B

Introduction:

Here are certain words commonly used, while teaching Physics. The same words have their literal meanings also. The undersigned author is a teacher of both Physics and English. He has listed some words which he came across while teaching both the subjects with their meanings in both the disciplines. Readers may find more words from other sources, which are commonly used, for improvement of their vocabulary.

1. Ballistics

The word Ballistics is used in various disciplines especially in Science and Technology. The dictionary meaning is science of production of projectiles such as shells, bombs, bullets etc. In Physics this word is applied in ballistic pendulum, ballistic galvanometer etc. In Space Technology it is used in ballistic missiles. So, anything which projected in a parabolic curve is known as Ballistics.

2. Barn:

The literal meaning of Barn is building in which gain, hay etc are stored. In general, a broad target. In Nuclear Physics, it represents the unit effective cross section of nucleus in the order of 10 power -24 cm.

It is a matter for our thought to ponder even Scientists think in terms of poetic language. In part A we saw the word Avalanche giving a poetic definition of raining of electrons in a diode. In this part, the word Barn may be considered a poetic description of measuring a nuclear area. How such a small area could be named with such a huge area like the storage place of paddy and rice.

For the size of electrons and protons, the cross section of nucleus is so high that for an electron, nuclear cross section is a Barn. The wisdom of our scientists in this analogy may well be appreciated.

3. Buoyancy:

A carefree, light-hearted person is generally known as Buoyant person. He is supposed to 'fly' in air. A buoyant person makes people around him carefree and joyous.

Such a meaningful word is used in Hydro- physics for the objects floating in liquids.
Buoyancy is the upward thrust on a body immersed in a liquid. This is the foundation of Archimedes principle, which is a turning point in Physics and Chemistry.

One will be stuck with wonder to understand the similarity between a care-free person flying in air along with an object floating in water.

4. Bits and Bytes: These two words are not un-common for a computer student. A Byte represents the sub-division of a word in a computer. It usually consists of 8 Bits. A kilobyte is 1024 bits and so on.

The literal meaning of Bit need not be insisted upon. whose general meaning is a small piece. Likewise, the word Byte means sequence of bits possessed as a single unit of information in Computers.

5. Camera and Cell:

The meaning of Camera is well known to us. It is an optical device for obtaining still photographs or for exposing cinematic film. The literal meaning of this word is 'a private room' especially that of a professional like a judge etc. In South India, the word is commonly used to represent a store room where personal belongings are kept.

The similarity between the structure of a camera and a small room (cabin) is to be felt and appreciated.

Likewise, we all know the uses of 'Cell' phones and battery cells. The literal meaning of Cell is also a 'small room' or an apartment.

6. Candela:

It is anybody's guess that the origin of this word is 'Candle'. It is the unit of luminous intensity formerly expressed in candle power. There is an idiom which states that 'can't hold a candle to. which means the matter under consideration does not project enough light to read.

7. Cascade:

The common dictionary meaning of this word is a 'waterfall'. It does not mean a waterfall falling continuously, but falling step after step. In Science, a 'cascade process' represents a process that takes place in a number of steps, usually because the single step is too inefficient to produce thee result. as in the case of a cascade liquefier wherein gas is liquified in various steps.

8. Causality:

Cause and effect relationship has great significance both in Science and Philosophy. In Science,the principle states that 'the effect can not precede cause'. In Philosophy the word implies 'there is no effect without cause'. In other words, this is a philosophical version of Newton's third law which states that 'Action and Reaction are equal and opposite' which, in other words means that Energy can neither be created nor be destroyed, but can only be transformed. For any change in any object or energy in the Universe, if it is considered as an effect, and the action is the cause. Hence, the word Causality has invited continuous and deep study by Philosophers and Scientists as well.

9. Chirality:

The origin of this word is Chiral. Any object which is different in its reflection is known as chiral. Otherwise it is known as Achiral. The best example of a chiral object is an arm reflected in a mirror. Left arm will appear like right arm and vice versa. Hence chirality means, the property existing in left, but belongs to right handed structural forms. The example for this is in Chemical properties in a medicine called Thalidomide.

(Example for an achiral object is a water glass reflected in a mirror which will not exchange sides)

10. Chromoticity:

This word is applied both in Optics and Sound. In Optics, it is an objective description of the colour quality of a visual stimulus and in Sound, it relates to notes in a melodic progression.TChromatic which refers to colour and music scales.

11. Cladding:

Cladding generally means 'clothes'. We could have read in stories thee phrase 'clad in white cloth' etc. The extended meanings are, to cover one material with other as in the case of a nuclear reactor, brick with another material in building construction. A modern use of this word can be found in fibre optics when optical fibres are protected by cladding.

12. Coagulation

The meaning is to clot by chemical reaction. Heating is one example of coagulating as in the case of eggs being boiled to coagulate the albumin.

13. Coefficient

A coefficient is that which acts together with another thing. In Physics, it is a constant used as a multiplier to various quantities which are multiplied.



Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry

Advances in Data Network Backup Switches

echnically Advanced Data Network Backup Switches

Abstract: Backup switches allow the users the capability of sharing devices or networks connected to the COMMON port/s among devices or networks connected to the (A, B, C, etc.) lettered or (1, 2, 3, etc.) numbered ports. Network switch designs and capabilities have changed significantly since the dawn of the computer age. This white paper delineates and clarifies some of the capabilities of the network switches on the market today.

Introduction: Network switches have come a long way since they were simply used to select either printer A or B for that report coming from a particular computer. Today's switches can still have simple designs and functions; however, new demands for high-speed capability, high reliability factors, and sophisticated control methods have developed a market for technically advanced network backup switches.

1. Today's Switch Requirements
Let's start at the beginning. The significant number of choices that need to be made to determine the exact switch to meet the user's requirements is an indication of the growing complexity of today's data network backup switches.

Switches are available with any number of positions, including secure off-line positions. The switches can have letters, A, B, C, etc., or numbered positions. Connect and Disconnect, On-Line and Off-Line, Normal and Loopback, and Normal and Crossover positions are also offered.

Switches can be designed to meet space requirements. As an example, a particular switch was developed with a small size and with mounting ears to fit a mobile/motion application. Another switch was designed to be built into a wall for a secure and handy application. Multiple modular units can fit into a rack and can be expandable as required.

Most Rackmount configured switches are designed to fit standard 19" racks. A 1U rackmount switch dimensions are 19" W x 1.75" H x 8.0" D (48.3 x 4.4 x 20.3 cm). A 2U rackmount switch dimensions are 19" W x 3.5" H x 8" D (48.3 x 8.9 x 20.3 cm).

Racks are available to house modular switches. A 19" W x 5.25" H x 7" D (48.3 x 13.3 x 17.8 cm) rack can accommodate multiple switch module chassis of various widths. Filler panels are available to cover empty slots and provide the data center with a neat appearance. Modular switches are ideal for networks that plan expansion over a period of time.

Switches can be built with any connector and with combinations of connectors. An example is a tri-channel A/B switch with both RJ45 and BNC interfaces. Channel 1 allows access to RJ45 devices 1-A or 1-B. Channel 2 allows access to BNC devices 2-A or 2-B. Channel 3 allows access to BNC devices 3-A or 3-B. Fiber optic connectors include ST, SC, LC, ESCON, FC, and others.

Switches can be selected that operate at various speeds. If the switch has RJ45 ports, CAT5, CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6a are options. CAT5 switches allow access to networks rated for 10/100Base-T (up to CAT5). CAT5e switches allow access to networks rated for 1000Base-T Gigabit Networks. CAT6 switches allow access to networks rated for Gigabit Ethernet. CAT6a switches allow access to networks rated for 10/100/1000Base-T.

Switches can be controlled via a push-button or remotely via a number of methods. Switches can switch automatically when they sense a loss of data or receive a trigger signal. Remote control types include RS232 serial, contact closure, IP addressable, and Graphical User Interface (GUI) and any combination of these controls. Automatic control is also available.

Offline switching can be accomplished where the switch can automatically switch to an offline position before switching between ports A and B. A switch can have a secure off-line position where absolutely no data passes through the switch when in the off-line position. This is the ultimate firewall.

The point is that both copper and fiber optic switches can be complex. Let's try to demystify some of the sticking points with further explanations and examples.

2. Flexibility in Switch Controls
Push-button - Many switches offer front-panel push-button for local control. Any person with access to the switch can easily change the switch position. If that's all you need, push-button control is the way to go.

Keylock - A Pass Key can ensures proper authorized usage. The advantage of the keylock is the security of knowing that only the person with the key can change the switch position. The keylock mechanism can be located on the front panel. Removing the key ensures that the switch will remain in the exact position that it was in when it was locked. Pocket the key and rest assured that the switch will continue operating exactly as it was intended.

Remote Control - Now the switching choices are a little more complex, but there are definite advantages. The switch can be controlled remotely in a number of fashions:

RS232 Serial Control - With RS232 serial control, the REMOTE connector accepts RS232 serial data ASCII commands. The remote port may be connected to any standard RS232 port on a computer. The computer, once connected to the remote port, may use any common terminal emulation software to generate RS232 serial data ASCII commands.

Contact Closure - The REMOTE connector accepts Contact Closure signaling for remote control operation. An example of the methodology for contact closure is when the switch detects a transition from open to close and remains closed across pins 2 and 3, the unit will switch to the B position. If the switch detects a transition from closed to open and remains open across pins 2 and 3, the unit will switch to the A position.

IP Addressable - An IP Addressable feature is ideal for critical network alternate-path switching. Remote control and monitoring of the switch position can be from a 10/100 Base-T LAN Ethernet environment. Users can communicate with the switch via TELNET session. The user setup can allow assignment of an IP address for the switch unit.

Graphical User Interface (GUI) - The remote GUI interface allows the user to control the switch remotely with simple point and click operation. Many switches today offer extensive GUI features. To utilize the user-friendly software, the users may simply connect to the switch from a computer with access to the LAN to which the switch port is connected. Simply launch a standard Web browser and type in the appropriate IP address.

Code-Operated - The switch position and lockout can be changed through the data stream on the COMMON port. The switch monitors its COMMON port and its A port for a specified trigger character sequence.

Auto Sensing - With automatic sensing the switch can switch itself based on sensing a loss of carrier (DCD). Some switches have multiple control methods and can also be controlled locally via a front-panel push-button, or the switch can be managed off-site with the Remote option. An Automatic Fallback A/B Switch with Optional Remote Management Port allows a device connected to the COMMON port to connect through to the A port. The unit monitors carrier presence (DCD) signal on the primary line, port A. If carrier is lost, the unit automatically switches to port B. The switch will maintain its connection to port B until carrier presence is again detected on port A. When carrier is detected on port A, the unit will automatically return to the A position. With some switches, the user can override the automatic fallback operation from the front panel and force the unit to operate as an A/B switch.

To sum up flexibility in switch control, today's switches are available with automatic, manual, and remote control systems and with any number of combinations.

3. Redundancy in Network Switches
Redundancy in network switches can mean added reliability. In the first example, the switch uses a redundant system to back itself up. In the second example the switch uses an extra remote port as an additional means of communicating with the switch and an additional power supply port to ensure power is always available to the unit.

Redundant Backup - A particular switch design of interest is a normal/redundant fallback switch that self-configures connectivity based on the devices connected to it. This type switch allows data broadcast, TD of the RS232 interface, from two data origination devices to be channeled to two devices designated as destination devices. The switch will self-configure its connectivity based on the devices connected to it, or the user can override its connection status from a front panel push-button.

This is how the Normal/Redundant switch works. During the Normal mode, the origin device connected to port D1 is connected to port COM1. The device connected to port D2 is connected to port COM2. If the RTS signal is lost from the device connected to D1, the switch changes to Redundant Fallback mode and automatically broadcasts the data from D2 device to both destination devices, COM1 and COM2. Likewise, if the RTS signal is lost from the device connected to the D2, the switch automatically broadcasts the data from the D1 device to both the devices COM1 and COM2. One of the status LED's will be lit steady ON to reflect the connectivity status and signify that the unit is in Automatic operation. To override the Automatic operation, the user simply depresses the front panel push-button and holds it down for 5 seconds and then releases.



Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry

Gating Technology

For the processing of thermoplastics the predried granulate is melted in the plasticizing unit of an injection molding machine and then conveyed by the screw to the molding via a spreader system.

This spreader system is also called a gating system. The primary requirement for the gating system is extremely careful transport of the melt to the molding. On the basis of

* the geometry of the molding,

* processing-related reasons and

* economic aspects
the gating system can be divided into the following areas:

* hot runner,

* cold runner,

* sprue and

* gate.

Strengths

* Optimal component quality
* no sequential faults
* gentle processing of the plastic melt taking into account process and component requirements Gating system of a center console

Structure of a gating system

A number of demands are placed on a gating system both by the processor and by the raw material supplier. To meet the constant cost pressure, processors attach importance to smooth and optimally automated production. Furthermore, they require a large processing window, but for reasons of economic efficiency wish to realize a short cycle and be faced with little sprue waste. From a rheological point of view, however, low shear, temperature increase and pressure loss are optimal conditions for trouble-free production. To meet these, in part, conflicting requirements, the gating system is divided into different sections.

* In the hot runner the melt is maintained at the proper temperature by means of electric heating. In this way even larger distances can be bridged over in the mold without pressure losses. The hot runner ends in a hot nozzle, which represents the boundary line between the heated and unheated zone.

* The cold runner is the link between the hot runner and sprue section and bridges the section that can no longer be reached with the hot runner. A large temperature gradient is produced between the cold mold wall and the melt in the unheated cold runner. Therefore, the melt in the cold runner is exposed to greater shear and accordingly is subjected to a greater load. Short cold runners make it possible to keep pressure loss and material load within acceptable limits.

* The sprue is the transition area between cold runner and molding. Varying sprue designs are used here, depending on the design and demands on the part.

* The gate point is the transition point from the sprue to the molding. Often rheological necessities and demands on surface quality clash at this point. Two aspects must be kept in mind:

1) A small gate is less visible and can be removed from the mold better.

2) In a gate whose size is too small the melt is exposed to an extremely high shear that may lead to surface problems, such as streaking and collapse.

Design of a gating system

The gating system guides the melt prepared in the injection molding cylinder to the molding and has direct and indirect effects on the quality of the molding. Against this background, the article designer and the tool and die maker should take these aspects into account right from the design phase in order to guarantee a trouble-free processing process and constant component quality.

In the design of a gating system the focus is on the component. Factors that influence the design of the gating system include:

* size,

* targeted surface quality,

* mechanical requirements,

* specified thermoplastic,

* complexity of the geometry and

* economic efficiency.

Runners and sprues that are dimensioned too small lead to excessive load on the melt due to high shear in the gating system. In extreme cases this may lead to chemical degradation, resulting in a drastic reduction in the mechanical capacity and streaking in the gate section or over the entire molding. To ensure optimal processing, the following points are coordinated step by step:

* gate location,

* gating technology,

* gate type and

* dimensioning of the gating system.

What used to be determined in individual steps and frequently through initial matching is now possible with the help of constantly optimized software for simulation of the molding and of the filling process prior to die making.

Gate location

When determining the gate location, the following must be given consideration:

* the flow path,

* the filling volume and

* the position of the joint lines.

The first step should be to check the filling situation on the basis of the filling pressure curves. The latter provide material-specific information on the fluidity in comparison to the pressure needs as a function of the wall thickness. With regard to the location of the gate points, the respective flowability of the material should not be exhausted so as to avoid unnecessarily restricting the processing window. If the molding is filled in several gates, it must be kept in mind with respect to the joint that

* a joint line is created that may be visible and represents

* a mechanical weak point.

Therefore, it is often necessary to select the location of the gates such that the joint line is not in optically critical exposed sections and areas subjected to mechanical load. Furthermore, the location of the sprue may depend on specific component requirements and production processes. If, for example, IMD (in-mold decoration) is used for a molding, the flow over the film has a decisive influence on the gate location.

Gating technology

After determination of the sprue location the next step is to define the gating technology. Depending on component size and requirement, a number of methods are available, from three-plate to cascade technology. Selection of the technology to be applied depends on the targeted result. The mold construction time and the costs are the primary factors in the making of prototype molds. Therefore, a simply designed cold runner system is usually used here, possibly in a three-plate mold. If runnerless injection molding is required, the appropriate hot nozzles must be selected to support such a process.

Type of gating system

The transition area between the cold runner and the molding is designated as the sprue. The point where the melt flows into the molding is called the gate. The selection of sprue and gate depends on the requirements to be met by the gate point and the filling characteristics.

* Tunnel gating system The tunnel gating system meets the requirements of automatic production and is therefore applied very often. In connection with the design, however, adequate cross-sections must be ensured in order to avoid high pressure losses and application of unnecessary shear to the melt, depending on the length of the tunnel.

* Film gating system The film gating system is especially well suited for optical components, such as headlight lenses. The arriving melt is placed across the width of the film gate via a pre-distributor and an even flow into the molding is achieved through skillful dimensioning of the pre-distributor. This type of gating enables low-stress filling, but requires mechanical removal of the sprue.


Tag:Reflectometry, film thickness , ellipsometry, n&k, Optical Critical Dimension, scatterometry