Blog - Techal

How Routers Work and the Importance of Routing Tables

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Routers, a fundamental component of modern networks, play a crucial role in directing network traffic and ensuring data reaches its intended destination. Understanding how routers work and the concept of routing tables is essential for network engineers and technology enthusiasts alike. ContentsIntroductionRouting Tables: The Blueprint of a RouterHow Routers Learn About NetworksNavigating Through NetworksFAQsConclusion Introduction … Read more

Cisco CCNA – Understanding the Basics of Spanning Tree BPDUs & the Root Bridge

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Network engineers and technology enthusiasts often work with spanning trees to ensure network efficiency and reliability. In this article, we will delve into the fundamentals of spanning trees, focusing on the original version and how it works. Let’s dive in! ContentsThe Bridge Protocol Data Unit (BPDU)Understanding Bridge Priority and the Root BridgeInfluence and Flooding of … Read more

Air, Land & Sea Augmented Reality at the Toronto Zoo

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Imagine standing alongside a herd of wild animals or seeing a pod of dolphins appear right before your eyes. At the Toronto Zoo, this is possible with their new exhibit called “Wild Connections.” In collaboration with National Geographic, the zoo has created an immersive experience that combines animals and augmented reality (AR) to raise awareness … Read more

Elon Musk’s Warning: The Impending Electricity Crisis

March 4, 2024 by Techal

In a recent interview with Fridman Podcast Clips, technology maverick Elon Musk issued a stark warning about an impending electricity crisis. As the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, Musk’s insights into the future of technology carry significant weight. He predicts that the current silicon shortage will soon transition into a voltage transformer shortage, leading … Read more

Medical Engineering – Exploring the Basics of Magnetic Resonance Imaging

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Welcome back to the world of medical engineering! Today, we delve into the fascinating realm of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and explore its properties and applications. In this two-part series, we will first explore the physics behind magnetic resonance and how it can be utilized to measure physical properties of tissues within the body. In … Read more

Building a Simple Sudoku Solver with Backtracking in Python

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Are you ready to solve some Sudoku puzzles? In today’s tutorial, we’ll build a simple Sudoku solver using the backtracking algorithm in Python. If you’re not familiar with backtracking or recursion, don’t worry! We’ll explain everything you need to know to follow along. ContentsWhat is Backtracking?Creating the SolverValidating MovesTesting the SolverConclusion What is Backtracking? Backtracking … Read more

Fourier Transforms: Unlocking the Power of Image Compression

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to another exciting chapter in our exploration of Fourier transforms. In this installment, we will delve into the fascinating world of image compression. Prepare to be amazed as we unveil the secrets behind compressing images using fast Fourier transforms (FFT). This technique allows us to store images with significantly less data while maintaining their … Read more

Exporting and Running Chat on a Linux Server

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to a comprehensive guide on how to export and run the Cherno chat application on a Linux server. In this article, we will walk you through the process of exporting the chat application from Eclipse and running it seamlessly on a Linux server. So, let’s get started! ContentsExporting the Chat ApplicationRunning the Chat Application … Read more

How to Train an AI to Read Handwriting

March 4, 2024 by Techal

Do you ever wish you could have an AI read your messy handwriting and convert it into typed text? Well, you’re in luck! In this Crash Course AI lab, we will walk you through the process of training a neural network to recognize handwritten letters. So, let’s get started! ContentsStep 1: Creating a Labeled DatasetStep … Read more

Mastering RSTP: Unveiling the Secrets of BPDU’s and the Root Bridge

March 3, 2024 by Techal

In the world of networking, understanding the inner workings of RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol) is essential for engineers and enthusiasts alike. Today, we will delve into the secrets of BPDU’s (Bridge Protocol Data Units) and the all-important root bridge. ContentsUnderstanding Bridge IDs in RSTPSystem ID Extension FieldIdentifying the Root BridgeEvolution of BPDU Usage in … Read more

A Beginner’s Guide to Machine Learning Models

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome back! In this article, we will take a deep dive into the world of machine learning and demystify the process of building ML models. Whether you’re a technology enthusiast or an engineer, understanding the fundamentals of machine learning is crucial in today’s tech-driven world. So, let’s get started! ContentsWhat is Machine Learning?Types of Machine … Read more

Understanding Encoders and Their Applications

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Are you curious about encoders and how they are used in various industries? In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of encoders, their functions, and their wide range of applications. Whether you are a technology enthusiast or an engineer, this guide will provide you with insightful information about these devices. ContentsWhat Exactly is … Read more

What is a Database?

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of databases. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly a database is and why it’s so important in our data-driven society, you’re in the right place. Let’s start by exploring the fundamentals of databases and how they play a crucial role in storing and organizing data efficiently. ContentsUnderstanding DatabasesBenefits … Read more

Juniper’s Routing Table: Explained for Juniper Enthusiasts

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to another exciting installment of our Introduction to Juniper Series! In this article, we will delve into the world of routing tables and discover the intricate details of Juniper’s routing architecture. So, buckle up and get ready to expand your knowledge! ContentsUnderstanding Routing TablesExploring the Routing TableFinding the Best RouteUnderstanding the Routing Table vs. … Read more

Tales from the Crypt: Unveiling the Mysteries of D&D

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome, dear adventurers, to a thrilling chapter of our incredible D&D journey. Today, we unveil the secrets hidden within the crypt of Corisi. Brace yourselves for an epic tale of danger, courage, and undead creatures. But before we delve into this bone-chilling adventure, let me share with you a fascinating discovery I made – a … Read more

Can Poker Really Be Cheated? Debunking the Myths

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Poker has always been shrouded in an air of mystery and intrigue. From the Wild West to modern-day casinos and online platforms, the question lingers: can you cheat in poker? Today, we explore this age-old debate and shed light on the reality of cheating in the world of poker. ContentsThe Romanticized Notion of CheatingThe Realities … Read more

Introduction to Data Visualization

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to the captivating world of data visualization! In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the concept of data visualization and its significance in the realm of data-intensive engineering, with a special focus on Aerospace applications. Data visualization is more than just presenting numbers and figures on a screen – it … Read more

I Hope We Witness Humans Land on Mars in Our Lifetime

March 3, 2024 by Techal

The recent successful Crew Dragon mission, conducted by SpaceX in collaboration with NASA, marks an incredible milestone in space exploration. It not only signifies a significant step forward for commercial space travel but also ignites the imagination and curiosity of people worldwide. The idea of humans venturing further into space, beyond the boundaries set by … Read more

Just Do It: Maximizing Productivity in Game Engine Development

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Do you ever find yourself in a productivity slump, struggling to make progress on your projects? We’ve all been there. Productivity can be like a roller coaster, with highs and lows that seem out of our control. But what if there was a way to consistently boost your productivity and make significant strides in your … Read more

Introduction to Configuring a New Junos Device: Part 1

March 3, 2024 by Techal

In this article, we will walk through the process of configuring a new Junos device from scratch. Whether you’ve been given an old switch that needs to be reset and set up or you’re starting with a brand new device, this guide will help you get started. We’ll cover everything from recovering passwords to performing … Read more

The Magic of Fourier Series: Approximating Functions with Sines and Cosines

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Who would have thought that a seemingly complex periodic function could be approximated so beautifully? In this fascinating journey, we will explore the wonders of Fourier series and how it allows us to capture the essence of any periodic continuous function using a combination of sines and cosines of increasing frequencies. Today, we will delve … Read more

Cisco CCNA DTP: Simplifying Trunk Link Configuration

March 3, 2024 by Techal

If you’re a Cisco enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with the Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP). Cisco offers an automatic option for configuring trunk links, simplifying the process and saving you valuable time. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Cisco’s DTP and explore how it can benefit your network configuration. ContentsUnderstanding Dynamic Trunking ProtocolConfiguring … Read more

Understanding Naive Bayes: A Simple and Powerful Machine Learning Algorithm

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to Techal, where we dive into the world of technology to explore the latest trends and advancements. In today’s article, we will be discussing Naive Bayes, a simple yet powerful machine learning algorithm. Naive Bayes has become popular due to its ability to make accurate predictions even with limited data. So let’s dive in … Read more

Basics: OpenCL

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to Techal’s guide to understanding the basics of OpenCL! In this article, we’ll walk you through the fundamental concepts behind OpenCL and how it can greatly accelerate computational speed. ContentsIntroductionThe Kernel ProgramThe Host ProgramSetting Up the KernelExecuting the ProgramFAQsConclusion Introduction OpenCL, short for Open Computing Language, allows developers to write code that can be … Read more

Converting a Basic Wiring Diagram to a PLC Program

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome back to Techal! In this article, we’ll explore the process of converting a basic wiring diagram into a ladder logic PLC program. This skill can be incredibly useful, especially if you’re looking to upgrade a machine to PLC control. While it may seem daunting at first, with a clear understanding of the basics, it … Read more

Sinking and Sourcing PLC Outputs Demystified

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever heard of the terms “Sinking” and “Sourcing” in relation to PLC digital output modules? If you’ve been in the instrumentation and automation field for some time, you probably have. In this article, we will delve into the concepts of sinking and sourcing and clear up any misconceptions you may have. ContentsUnderstanding Sinking … Read more

Polishing the UIButton: A Guide to Game Programming

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to episode 120 of Game Programming! After a brief hiatus due to illness, we are back and more determined than ever to make progress on our game. Today, we will focus on polishing the UI buttons, fixing bugs, and improving usability. Let’s dive right into it! ContentsFixing Button BugsImproving the Button APIAdding Images to … Read more

Building Linear Regression Models from Data

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Linear regression models are a powerful tool in the world of data analysis. They allow us to build predictive models based on measurement data, which can be used to make informed decisions about the future. In this article, we will explore the process of building linear regression models and how they can be computed. ContentsThe … Read more

Sparse Sensor Placement Optimization: Tailoring Measurements for Better Reconstruction

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome back! In the world of sparsity and compressed sensing, a fascinating field of applied mathematics and statistics, we have been exploring the possibilities of reconstructing high-dimensional signals from a limited number of measurements. However, today we’re going to turn this paradigm upside down. Instead of relying on random measurements, we’ll ask the question: can … Read more

What Makes Large Language Models Expensive?

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Large language models have gained significant attention in recent years due to their impressive capabilities in generating human-like text. However, these models come with a hefty price tag, especially when considering enterprise usage. In this article, we will explore the true cost of large language models and the factors that influence their expense. ContentsUse Case: … Read more

How 17,000 Silkworms Created a Stunning Structure

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Silkworms are intriguing creatures, known for their ability to spin cocoons and create beautiful silk threads. But what if these silkworms could be harnessed to build something extraordinary? That’s exactly what Neri Oxman and Fridman set out to explore. In their work at MIT’s Mediated Matter Group, Oxman and Fridman embarked on a journey to … Read more

How to Connect Sensors to a PLC: A Step-by-Step Guide

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever wondered how field devices like valves and sensors are wired and connected to a PLC’s input and output modules? In this article, we will walk you through the process, using a practical example, to help you understand exactly how these connections are made. ContentsUnderstanding PLC Input and Output ModulesInstalling the Front ConnectorConnecting … Read more

Game Programming – Mastering Sprites

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to another exciting episode of game programming! In today’s lesson, we will delve into the fascinating world of sprites. But first, let’s do a quick recap. Yesterday, we created an exceptional sprite sheet class that allows us to load and cache sprite sheets into our project. Now, the next step is to learn how … Read more

Shooty Fruity VR Oculus Rift Gameplay: A Juicy VR Experience

March 3, 2024 by Techal

By Mike from Techal Are you ready to step into the virtual world of Shooty Fruity on the Oculus Rift? This fun and engaging shooting game from n dreams brings a unique twist to the genre. In Shooty Fruity, you find yourself in a supermarket, facing an invasion of various types of fruit. Your mission? … Read more

Neural Networks: Understanding ReLU Activation Function

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to another exciting journey into the world of neural networks! In this article, we will explore the ReLU activation function and its vital role in deep learning and convolutional neural networks. If you are new to neural networks, don’t worry! We will guide you step by step. ContentsWhat is ReLU Activation Function?The Power of … Read more

LSTM with PyTorch + Lightning: Unleashing the Power of Sequential Data

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to the enthralling world of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) with PyTorch + Lightning. Get ready for an extraordinary journey where complexities transform into simplicities and miracles become everyday occurrences. This is not just an ordinary tutorial, but a captivating adventure that will make your coding life a breeze. ContentsUnveiling the Secrets of LSTMThe Magic … Read more

Ken Ono: The Profound Influence of an Unexpected Genius

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Ken Ono, a prominent mathematician, has had an extraordinary journey shaped by the genius of Srinivasa Ramanujan. Ramanujan, renowned for his groundbreaking mathematical discoveries, not only inspired a Hollywood film but also played a pivotal role in Ono’s life. As a teenager, Ono found solace in Ramanujan’s story, realizing that success could be achieved beyond … Read more

The Fascinating World of Perceptron Networks

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Neural networks have revolutionized the field of artificial intelligence. Among the various types of neural networks, the perceptron network stands out for its ability to tackle complex problems. But what exactly is a perceptron and how does it work? Let’s dive into the intriguing realm of perceptron networks! ContentsA Single Perceptron: A Linear ClassifierBuilding a … Read more

What is Linear Motion Control?

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to the world of motion control! In this article, we will delve into the fascinating realm of Linear Motion Control. Whether you are an engineering enthusiast or a professional in the field, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the applications and mechanisms of linear motion control. ContentsUnderstanding Linear Motion ControlFactors to … Read more

Get Fit in Virtual Reality with BoxVR Oculus Rift

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to the world of virtual reality fitness! Today, we are diving into the exciting world of BoxVR on the Oculus Rift. BoxVR is a VR fitness app that promises to help you get fit while having fun in the virtual world. Priced at $14.99 in British pounds and $19.99 in US Dollars, this app … Read more

The Incredible Engineering Behind Orbit

March 3, 2024 by Techal

As a space shuttle powers its way through the atmosphere and completes its mission, it’s easy to forget the amazing engineering that makes it all possible. The Space Shuttle Orbiter is more than just a rocket; it’s a mobile laboratory, a home in space, and a tool for completing complex tasks. In this article, we’ll … Read more

Understanding IP Rating: Protection for Electrical Devices

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever wondered how electrical devices maintain their performance in various environments? Whether in a medical facility or a steel foundry, devices need to be suitable for their working conditions. This is where the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system comes into play. In this article, we will explore what IP rating is and how … Read more

My Highlights from MICCAI 2020 Virtual Conference

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to this article where I will share some of the exciting highlights from the first day of the MICCAI 2020 virtual conference. Despite the challenges posed by the virtual format, there were many interesting developments and presentations that I would like to showcase. So, let’s dive in and explore my personal selection of highlights … Read more

How to Easily Check the IMEI Number of Your Phone

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever wondered how to check the IMEI number of your phone? Whether you own an iPhone or an Android device, finding your device’s IMEI number is a simple process that can come in handy in various situations. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to easily check your phone’s unique … Read more

Route Precedence: Decoding How a Router Chooses the Best Path

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Routing packets efficiently is a crucial task that routers perform to ensure optimized network performance. Have you ever wondered how a router decides which path to take when multiple paths exist? In this article, we will dive into the concept of route precedence and explore how routers make this decision. Stay with us to unravel … Read more

Beyond the Patterns: Biological and Artificial Neural Networks

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome back to Beyond the Patterns! Today, we have a truly exciting talk for you. Our presenter for today is Amy Kuceyeski, an associate professor at Weil Cornell Medicine in the Department of Radiology. Amy’s research focuses on understanding the functioning of the human brain and using quantitative methods to map brain behavior relationships. In … Read more

The Revolution of the 787 Dreamliner: Engineering the Future of Air Travel

March 3, 2024 by Techal

The airline industry has undergone a revolution, and it’s all thanks to the engineering marvel that is the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This $30 billion bet on the future of air travel not only transformed how the airline industry operates but also set a new standard for how future planes will be designed and built. Let’s … Read more

How to Install MySQL and Import a Sample Database

March 3, 2024 by Techal

If you are looking to learn SQL and want to follow along with the instructor, installing MySQL is the first step. MySQL is an open-source software, which means it is free for most end-users. It also offers a commercial license for more advanced database requirements. ContentsChecking Compatibility and Downloading MySQLInstalling MySQLRunning MySQL WorkbenchImporting a Sample … Read more

Create Your Universal Remote Control with ESP8266 and Google Assistant

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to Techal, your go-to source for all things tech-related. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating your own IoT-based Universal IR remote controller using the ESP8266 and Cadio home automation. No coding skills required! ContentsIntroductionBuilding the Universal Remote ControllerUploading the FirmwareConfiguring the NodeMCUAdding Remote ControllersIntegration with Google AssistantExample Voice … Read more

Pressure Transmitter: A Comprehensive Guide

March 3, 2024 by Techal

In the world of industry, one instrument stands out for its versatility and importance: the Pressure Transmitter. In this article, we will delve into the inner workings of this device, exploring its functions and applications. So, buckle up and let’s explore the fascinating world of Pressure Transmitters. ContentsUnderstanding Transducers and TransmittersThe Role of Pressure TransmittersA … Read more

Genghis Khan: Separating Fact from Fiction

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Image Source: Techal Genghis Khan, or was it Chingas Khan? The name may be subject to debate, but there’s no denying the impact this historical figure has had on human civilization. In this article, we delve into the fascinating story of Genghis Khan, examining different perspectives and shedding light on the man behind the legend. … Read more

One-Hot, Label, Target, and K-Fold Target Encoding: Explained in Simple Terms!

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever wondered how to convert discrete variables into numerical values for machine learning algorithms? In this article, we’ll explore several encoding methods, including one hot encoding, label encoding, target encoding, and k-fold target encoding. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of each method and how they can be applied in your … Read more

Are There German WW1 Warship Parts in Space?

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever wondered if there are remnants of German World War 1 warships floating around in space? It may sound far-fetched, but this intriguing concept has been circulating on the internet for quite some time. In this article, we will delve into this story and explore whether there is any truth to it. ContentsThe … Read more

OSPF Area Types: Explained and Optimized

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to a comprehensive exploration of OSPF area types. In this article, we will delve into the five purported OSPF area types and shed light on their true nature. By the end, you will gain a deep understanding of these area types, the LSAs they contain, and the optimizations they offer. ContentsUnderstanding OSPF Area TypesThe … Read more

Let’s Play D&D: Order of the Griffon – Part 20

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Have you ever found yourself immersed in a game only to discover a hidden gem that captures your attention for hours on end? Today, we dive back into the world of D&D with Order of the Griffon. Join me as we embark on an adventurous journey filled with excitement and unexpected surprises. ContentsA Gargoyle EncounterRandom … Read more

Math is Fragile in the Face of Randomness

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Mathematics is often regarded as a precise and reliable field. However, in the face of randomness, the robustness of mathematical models is called into question. Cal Newport and Fridman explore this idea in their analysis of dynamic networks, where they highlight the challenge of determining whether lower bounds in problem-solving algorithms are robust or fragile. … Read more

Understanding Gouraud Shading: A Guide to Smooth Shading in 3D Programming

March 3, 2024 by Techal

If you’re a technology enthusiast or a tech engineer, you’ve likely come across the term “Gouraud shading” in your exploration of 3D programming. In this tutorial, we’ll dive deep into understanding Gouraud shading and its significance in achieving smooth shading effects in 3D models. ContentsWhat is Gouraud Shading?Understanding Smooth ShadingThe Basics of Gouraud ShadingVertex NormalsInterpolationPixel … Read more

The ELECTRA Model: Revolutionizing Natural Language Understanding

March 3, 2024 by Techal

Welcome to the world of natural language understanding! In this article, we’ll explore the groundbreaking ELECTRA model created by a team of researchers who are pushing the boundaries of contextual word representations. If you’re fascinated by the evolving field of technology and have a keen interest in language processing, then grab a cup of coffee … Read more

Robust Regression with the L1 Norm: A Powerful Tool for Data Analysis

March 3, 2024 by Techal

In the world of data analysis, outliers can wreak havoc on our regression models. These extreme values can distort our results and lead to inaccurate conclusions. However, there is a solution – robust regression with the L1 norm. In this article, we’ll explore how this technique can help us handle outliers and improve the accuracy … Read more