The last decade brought about a lot of advancements that we didn’t think would even be possible. In the case of business communication, the biggest benefit next to the internet is VoIP. Thanks to this technology, all business owners (even those whose budgets are extremely meager) can set up a strong communication system on par with their more established counterparts.
But when talking about how helpful VoIP can be, the conversation is always focused on calls. People always talk about how Telnum and other telecom providers are able to slash their phone bills, enhance the communication features they enjoy, and many more.
What about SMS? Unfortunately, the advantages in this area are unknown to many users. There are so many benefits If you want to fully harness the capabilities that are associated with VoIP, it’s time to expand to using it for SMS as well. Keep reading to find out how it would be advantageous to your enterprise:
Before the internet, mobile phones were pretty convenient because they allow you to receive messages even when you’re on the go. They’re still very useful today if you don’t have an internet connection.
But the problem here is when there’s a problem with the cellular tower or you’re in an area with a weak signal. There’s a chance that you won’t be able to receive your messages. The same issue persists if your phone is turned off. This is problematic for businesses because you want to be as responsive as possible.
By using a virtual number to get your text messages, you’re getting rid of this problem. You’d be able to access the messages anytime, just like you would with an email.
Even though online communication is very developed now, there’s still nothing that can beat a good old text message. From the number, you’re able to see the location of the person.
In a sense, this increases trust. The sense of belongingness that one can feel as being part of the same community is great. The same goes for the peace of mind, knowing that they’re physically accessible should there be issues.
If you’re operating in just one place, these pros may not mean anything to you. But the moment you try to expand to another country to get a wider market, these would matter a lot.
And any expansion may be closer than you think. Today, you don’t have to set up a physical location in a country to try and dominate the market there. Therefore, the costs of expansion are way cheaper. An SMS number (get it here: https://telnum.net/services/sms-numbers/ ) prepares you for this success that can easily come your way.
Get your messages read by your audience
Did you know that the average text message gets read within the first few minutes after it’s received? To compare, most of the emails you send probably don’t get read at all. Some of them may even end up in the spam folder.
So with an SMS number, you can have your messages read too. This allows you to maximize the financial impact of every text you send. Whether there’s an anniversary sale or a new product, you can make sure that your loyal customers always have the latest news.
Another marketing opportunity
No matter the fad in marketing today, the key ingredient would still be getting the message across. Now that you know just how receptive people are to text messages, it’s only right to use it as another opportunity to market to your audience.
You can even integrate it with any existing marketing efforts that you already have in place. With SMS, you can send promotions, increase traffic on your digital assets, and many more. Plus, think about how quick it is to send a text message. Unlike full-on funnels that take weeks to make, you can craft a text message and send it within the same day.
Low risk, high reward
It’s not just the number per se that is cheap. Sending your message to your audience won’t cost you a lot as well. Imagine this: for just a few cents per message, you’re guaranteed to have your message read by the recipient.
That’s one of the best deals that you can find today! This makes it a great marketing venture to try out if you have a small budget. Even if your messaging fails today, you can always try again tomorrow.
So if you haven’t yet, try incorporating an SMS VoIP number into your communication system. With all these benefits and the popular benefit of low fees, there’s no reason for you not to try it now. Get yours today and start experiencing these advantages for yourself!
Technology has moved steadily ahead over the years, but it has evolved by leaps and bounds in the past decade or so. Smartphones have been a revolution and a revelation. Even video games have become increasingly sophisticated and have overtaken the movie industry in value.
If technology keeps developing on this trajectory in the future, the next generation of coders will need online lessons today. Before signing up for your child, here’s what to look for in a program.
For now, put lofty things like your child’s eventual career or the fate of future technology out of your mind. The extracurricular programs kids sign up for need to be fun! Industry leaders like Real Programming 4 Kids make their courses revolve around teaching students to create their own video games.
Kids don’t need to be pushed very hard to play video games, and they are just as drawn to programming them. They can play the games with friends and family after, which is a big motivator.
The best online coding courses also harness gamification dynamics in the sessions, so the same things that make games so addictive and engaging for kids are used for learning.
Credit: Mati Mango via Pexels
Even the best teachers teaching the most engaging subject will struggle if there are too many students packed into a classroom. This is true in online and offline classrooms.
Look for a program that limits class sizes. Four is a great cut-off number, so there is only your child and, at most, three other students. Teachers shouldn’t have to deal with classroom management issues, and students shouldn’t contend against teachers who can’t remember every student’s name because there are so many.
Ideally, the program hires teachers who also grew up playing computer games, as their passion and first-hand experience reach students. Plus, they also have practical experience navigating the job market as a coder, and older students have someone whose brain they can pick about where coding can take them later on.
Learning how to code teaches many useful general computer skills and even fundamental math concepts, like integers, vectors, and trigonometry. Still, kids must also learn the direct skills powering today’s most popular apps, websites, and video games. Employers expect the people they hire to know these languages, and this knowledge lets kids forge their own paths in whatever direction they like.
Here’s a list of the coding languages elite programs teach:
Learning how to write computer code teaches kids how to use lateral thinking like an engineer, problem-solve, and other intangible mental habits. However, nothing replaces knowing the specific languages needed to make programs work.
Society needs to keep up the torrential pace of technological innovation, and parents are looking for fun, beneficial extracurricular activities for their kids today. Even if your child never becomes a professional video game developer or programmer, they’ll be excited to learn and play in a safe, stimulating environment every week. And maybe after they advance in coding, they will develop the next multimillion-dollar video game or generation-defining technology.
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.