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RELLIS Data and Research Center: Coming Summer 2025

The RELLIS Data and Research Center will be a public – private development with Texas A&M University.  The data center will be built on the new RELLIS Campus located in College Station, Texas.  It will offer cloud storage and outstanding managed services. The RELLIS Academy and Research Lab offers the ability for Texas A&M University to give real world data center experience to both students and faculty.

RELLIS Data and Research Center at Texas A&M University

Radio 400

“The wireless age has brought us closer together,

yet we must work to ensure that it does not divide us.”

— Guglielmo Marconi

When the electric grid and the internet are down and there is no cell service, radio can still work to help communities stabilize.   Starting 2024 we will break down our coverage of the radio frequency technology standards used in educational settlements into into two categories:

Radio 300: Security and maintenance radio.  These usually use a single radio channel and operate in a half-duplex mode: only one user on the channel can transmit at a time, so users in a user group must take turns talking. The radio is normally in receive mode so the user can hear all other transmissions on the channel. When the user wants to talk he presses a “push-to-talk” button, which turns off the receiver and turns on the transmitter; when he releases the button the receiver is activated again. Multiple channels are provided so separate user groups can communicate in the same area without interfering with each other.

Note that a core title in this domain — NFPA 1802 Standard on Two-Way, Portable RF Voice Communications Devices for Use by Emergency Services Personnel in the Hazard Zone — is part of an NFPA catalog reorganization.  Best practice content will be rolled into NFPA 1300 Standard on Fire and Emergency Service Use of Thermal Imagers, Two-Way Portable RF Voice Communication Devices, Ground Ladders, and Fire Hose, and Fire Hose Appliances.  

As of this posting APCO International has no public consultations on any titles in its public safety radio standards catalog.

Radio 400: Student radio.  College radio stations are typically considered to be public radio radio stations in the way that they are funded by donation and grants.  The term “Public radio” generally refers to classical music, jazz, and news. A more accurate term is community radio, as most staff are volunteers, although many radio stations limit staff to current or recent students instead of anyone from the local community.  There has been a fair amount of drama over student-run radio station history; a topic we steer away from.

The Low Power FM radio service was created by the Commission in January 2000.  LPFM stations are authorized for noncommercial educational broadcasting only (no commercial operation) and operate with an effective radiated power (ERP) of 100 watts (0.1 kilowatts) or less, with maximum facilities of 100 watts ERP at 30 meters (100 feet) antenna height above average terrain.  The approximate service range of a 100 watt LPFM station is 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles radius).  LPFM stations are not protected from interference that may be received from other classes of FM stations.

We follow — but do not respond — to consultations on titles covering the use of radio frequencies for the Internet of Things.  At the moment, most of that evolution happens at the consumer product level; though it is wise to contemplate the use of the electromagnetic spectrum during widespread and extended loss of broadband services.

Maxwell equations: Four lines that provide a complete description of light, electricity and magnetism

We do not include policy specifics regarding the migration of National Public Radio beyond cultural content into political news; though we acknowledge that the growth of publicly financed radio domiciled in education communities is a consideration in the technology of content preparation informed by the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967.

Sacred Heart University / Campus Public Safety & National Public Radio Studios / SGA Architects

We drill into technical specifics of the following:

  • Radios used for campus public safety and campus maintenance
  • Student-run campus radio stations licensed by the Federal Communications Commission as Low Power FM (LPFM)
  • Facilities for regional broadcast of National Public Radio operating from education communities
  • Off-campus transmission facilities such as broadcast towers.
  • Grounding, bonding, lightning protection of transmission and receiving equipment on buildings
  • Broadcast studio electrotechnologies

Radio technology is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission with no ANSI-accredited standards setting organizations involved in leading practice discovery and promulgation.  Again, we do not cover creative and content issues.  Join us today at 11 AM/ET using the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

More

List of campus radio stations

International Telecommunications Union: News Magazine No.1 2022

International Electrotechnical Commission TC 103: Transmitting and receiving equipment for radiocommunications

International Special Committee on Radio Interference

NFPA 1802: Standard on Two-Way, Portable RF Voice Communications Devices for Use by Emergency Services Personnel in the Hazard Zone

Campus Safety Radio JVCKENWOOD CAMPUS SAFETY 5 TIPS TO LOWER COSTS

Voice Communications Devices for Use by Emergency Services

The frequency differences between public safety radio and public broadcasting radio are mainly due to their distinct purposes and requirements.

  • Public safety radio operates on VHF and UHF bands for emergency services communication These radio systems are designed for robustness, reliability, and coverage over a specific geographic area. They prioritize clarity and reliability of communication over long distances and in challenging environments. Encryption may also be employed for secure communication.
  • Public broadcasting radio operates on FM and AM bands for disseminating news, entertainment, and cultural content to the general public.  These radio stations focus on providing a wide range of content, including news, talk shows, music, and cultural programming. They often cover broad geographic areas and aim for high-quality audio transmission for listener enjoyment. Unlike public safety radio, public broadcasting radio stations typically do not require encryption and prioritize accessibility to the general public.

Standard on Fire and Emergency Service Use of Thermal Imagers, Two-Way Portable RF Voice Communication Devices, Ground Ladders, and Fire Hose, and Fire Hose Appliances

NFPA 1930 is in a custom cycle due to the Emergency Response and Responder Safety Document Consolidation Plan (consolidation plan) as approved by the NFPA Standards Council.  As part of the consolidation plan, NFPA 1930 is combining Standards NFPA 1801, NFPA 1802, NFPA 1932, NFPA 1937, and NFPA 1962.

Firefighter radio communication faces several special technical challenges due to the nature of the environment they operate in and the criticality of their tasks. Here are some of the key challenges:

  1. Interference and Signal Degradation: Buildings, debris, and firefighting equipment can obstruct radio signals, leading to interference and degradation of communication quality.
  2. Multipath Propagation: Radio signals can bounce off surfaces within buildings, causing multipath propagation, which results in signal fading and distortion.
  3. Limited Bandwidth: Firefighter radio systems often operate on limited bandwidths, which can restrict the amount of data that can be transmitted simultaneously, impacting the clarity and reliability of communication.
  4. Noise: The high noise levels present in firefighting environments, including sirens, machinery, and fire itself, can interfere with radio communication, making it difficult for firefighters to hear and understand each other.
  5. Line-of-Sight Limitations: Radio signals typically require a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver. However, in complex urban environments or within buildings, obstructions such as walls and floors can obstruct the line of sight, affecting signal strength and reliability.
  6. Equipment Durability: Firefighter radio equipment needs to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including high temperatures, smoke, water, and physical impacts. Ensuring the durability and reliability of equipment in such conditions is a significant challenge.
  7. Battery Life: Prolonged operations in emergency situations can drain radio batteries quickly. Firefighters need reliable battery life to ensure continuous communication throughout their mission.
  8. Interoperability: Different emergency response agencies may use different radio systems and frequencies, leading to interoperability issues. Ensuring seamless communication between various agencies involved in firefighting operations is crucial for effective coordination and response.
  9. Priority Access: During large-scale emergencies, such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks, communication networks may become congested, limiting access for emergency responders. Firefighters need priority access to communication networks to ensure they can effectively coordinate their efforts.
  10. Training and Familiarity: Operating radio equipment effectively under stress requires training and familiarity. Firefighters must be trained to use radio equipment efficiently and effectively, even in challenging conditions, to ensure clear and concise communication during emergencies.

National Institute of Standards & Technology

Testing of Portable Radios in a Fire Fighting Environment

Campus Low-Power-Transmitters

FCC: Low Power FM Broadcast Radio | IEEE: Closed Circuit Radio

Columbia College Radio Tower for Student-Led WCRX

 

LIVE

 

"Radio affects most intimately, person-to-person, offering a world of unspoken communication between writer-speaker and the listener - Marshall McLuhan

Related:

800 MHz Public Safety Spectrum

What Is A Standard Drink?

 

“It’s a fine line between Saturday night

and Sunday morning” – Jimmy Buffett

 

“Rather a bottle in front of me

than a frontal lobotomy” — Some guy

 

Many people are surprised to learn what counts as a “drink”. The amount of liquid in your glass, can, or bottle does not necessarily match up to how much alcohol is actually in your drink.  Even before the United States federal government withdrew from regulating alcohol, the conversation, and degree of agreement and  attitude, remains remarkably regionally specific:

Missouri University of Science & Technology: What is a Standard Drink?

University of South Alabama: What is a Standard Drink?

Stanford University Office of Alcohol Policy and Education

Other nations serve alcohol to students on campus in university owned facilities.

Maynooth University Student Union County Kildare


College students create the ultimate hangover cure


Bourbon Research

What Is A Standard Drink?

Greg Gutfeld and guests discuss how President Biden’s alcohol czar is warning that new guidance could be only two beers a week

Mint Julep University

Strawberry Daiquiri Cocktail

Founded in 1999, the European Bartender School (EBS) is the world’s leading bartending school, operating over 25 schools across five continents. Its mission is to provide top-quality, globally recognized bartending and barista courses designed by industry experts.

EBS aims to train aspiring bartenders with practical and theoretical skills, offering a comprehensive International Bartender Course that equips students for global career opportunities. With over 80,000 graduates, EBS fosters a vibrant community, connecting students to jobs via EBS MatchStaff. The school emphasizes a fun, social learning experience, blending professional education with personal growth and travel

KANM Student Radio

KANM Student Radio, founded in 1973 at Texas A&M University, began as Student Government Radio, broadcasting via cable on 107.5 FM in partnership with Mid-West Video Corporation. Initially airing from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. weekdays, it offered diverse genres like hard rock and country. Despite early financial struggles, accumulating $5,783.64 in debt by 1977, KANM grew its influence through the 1970s and 1980s, facing technical issues like outages in 1978 and 1979.

It became independent in the 1980s, moving to the Pavilion complex in 1983 with equipment donations. KANM pioneered online streaming in 1998, transitioning to online-only by the mid-2010s. In 2024, it secured a low-power FM permit (KAGZ-LP 95.5 FM), marking a return to airwaves. Now located in the Memorial Student Center, KANM remains student-run, promoting non-commercial music and hosting events like the bi-annual “Save the Music” concert.

CLICK HERE to listen live

 

Raw Milk & “Vols Snacks”

Introducing Vols Snacks | Summary of Net Position 2023: $4.538B

The consumption of raw milk, which is milk that has not been pasteurized or homogenized, is a topic of debate and controversy. Advocates of raw milk claim certain potential advantages, while opponents highlight health risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk. It’s important to note that health regulations and recommendations vary by region, and some places may have restrictions on the sale or distribution of raw milk due to safety concerns.

Advocates of raw milk often cite the following potential advantages:

  1. Nutrient Retention: Some argue that the pasteurization process, which involves heating milk to kill harmful bacteria, may also destroy certain beneficial nutrients in milk. Proponents of raw milk claim that it retains more of its natural vitamins, enzymes, and beneficial bacteria.
  2. Enzymes: Raw milk contains natural enzymes that may aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. Some people believe that these enzymes are destroyed during pasteurization, potentially affecting the milk’s nutritional value.
  3. Probiotics: Raw milk may contain beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, which could contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. These bacteria are thought to have potential health benefits.
  4. Improved Taste: Some individuals prefer the taste of raw milk, finding it to be richer and creamier compared to pasteurized milk.

However, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks associated with raw milk consumption:

  1. Bacterial Contamination: Raw milk can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Listeria. These bacteria can cause serious foodborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
  2. Health and Safety Concerns: Pasteurization is a process designed to kill harmful bacteria without significantly affecting the nutritional value of the milk. It has played a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases through milk consumption.
  3. Regulatory Compliance: In many regions, the sale of raw milk is subject to strict regulations due to concerns about public health. Consumers should be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations regarding raw milk.

Before considering raw milk consumption, individuals should thoroughly research local regulations, consult with healthcare professionals, and weigh the potential benefits against the associated risks. It’s essential to prioritize food safety and make informed decisions based on reliable information.

Milk

Morning with Cows

Milk

The Cow

The friendly cow all red and white,
I love with all my heart:
She gives me cream with all her might,
To eat with apple-tart.

She wanders lowing here and there,
And yet she cannot stray,
All in the pleasant open air,
The pleasant light of day;

And blown by all the winds that pass
And wet with all the showers,
She walks among the meadow grass
And eats the meadow flowers.

— Robert Louis Stevenson

 

“De Jonge Stier” 1647 Paulus Potter

Dairy milk products remain a vital part of global food supply.  Since 1970 an ISO Technical Subcommittee —  ISO/TC 34/SC 5 Milk and milk products — seeks globally effective standardization solutions in the methods of analysis and sampling for milk and milk products, covering the dairy chain from primary production to consumption.   The business plan of its parent committee is linked below:

BUSINESS PLAN ISO/TC 34 FOOD PRODUCTS

The Stichting Koninklijk Nederlands Normalisatie Instituut is the Global Secretariat for TC34/SC5.  Participating and Observing nations are shown on the map below:

 

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers is the US Technical Advisory Group Administrator to the parent TC34 committee but ANSI does not have a Technical Advisory Group leader.  As the U.S. member body to the ISO,  ANSI is always on the hunt for its members and/or relevant stakeholders to participate in discovering standardization solutions in a broad range of technologies and markets with like-minded experts in other national standards bodies.  The full sweep of ANSI’s participation in consensus documents developed by the ISO is described in the link below:

ISO Programs – Overview

This committee has functioned since 1970 — long enough for many of the best practice titles it produces to have stabilized.   There is other market action in the global dairy supply — notably the growth of non-dairy food supply — but we find no public consultations open on proposed standardization solutions as of this posting.  When they are released they will appear in the link below:

ISO Standards Under Development 

Ontario Veterinary College

Land grant colleges and universities are likely stakeholders in this domain.  Apart from the passion that young people have for fair trade in any market, we see this as an opportunity for faculty and students to gain insight into the geo-politics of food supply generally and the subtleties of coffee markets.   Business schools, agricultural colleges, international studies program developers who may be, and should be, interested in a leadership opportunity on behalf of the United States should communicate directly with ANSI’s ISO Team ((isot@ansi.org).

Sunday, Animal, Farm, Agri

We devote at least an hour every month breaking down public consultations on food safety and sustainability.   The work products of TC 34  appears on the standing agenda of both our Global and Food colloquia.   See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting; open to everyone.

Issue: [19-46]

Category: Academic, Global

Colleagues: Mike Anthony, Christine Fischer, Akkeneel Talsma

 

 

 

 

 

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Ann Arbor, MI 48104 USA

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