Sensors woven into a patented fabric monitor heartbeat, temperature, etc., without the encumbering wires. Worn around the chest, a bioharness gathers, transmits, and records pertinent data on a computer. Next step is Java programming for cell phone capability reports BBC News. Similarly, a "smart" insole helps runners train and those recovering from knee or hip surgery.

Providing X, Y, and Z-axis conductivity, an open-cell, conductive polyurethane foam features nickel over copper-plated polyester fabric on both sides to maximize EMI (electromagnetic interference) shielding says Interference Technology. Recommended for computer, router, and telecom I/O applications, the gasketing material comes with or without pressure-sensitive conductive adhesive. It's UL 94 V-rated and RoHS compliant.

Developed as a wireless replacement for RS-232 serial cables, Bluetooth serial adapters allow a serial device to communicate with another serial port adapter or mobile phones, handheld computers, and laptops that are Bluetooth-enabled. Recommended for industrial data logging, monitoring, and wireless sensor control, the devices can transmit up to 1 km (0.6 mi) with an optional patch antenna says Automation.

Unique not only in its architecture, the 46-story Hearst Tower in New York City utilizes a distributed wireless antenna system for Wi-Fi, wireless phones, and data, simplifying network complexity. Eight antennas on each floor deliver the various wireless signals with out-of-sight access points and equipment reports eWeek. Multi-stage installation involves spectral analysis to measure propagation and the noise floor.

Interactive measurement software rapidly acquires, analyzes, and presents data from hundreds of data acquisition devices without the need for programming. An extension of the LabVIEW platform, SignalExpress features a drag-and-drop interface that allows users to automate their measurements says Manufacturingtalk. With just a few mouse clicks, data is acquired, logged to disk, and exported to a spreadsheet.

Recent advances in analog circuits — commonly used to amplify, filter, and convert analog to digital signals — make it possible to eliminate operational amplifiers while providing most of their functionality says Science Daily. MIT researchers have developed comparator-based switched capacitor circuits based on circuit-block architecture with increased power efficiency that are easily adaptable to systems with <1 V supply voltages.

Like fish hear through thousands of hairs connected to nerves, a new sensor allows U.S. Navy ships to accurately determine the directionality of low-amplitude sounds and cut the length of towed hydrophones by 5x. Developed to better detect submarines, the sensor uses light signals (sent through optical fibers) that are altered by the motion of water reports PhysLink.

Reviewing the current best practices for a simple, successful deployment of Microsoft's Vista, this online seminar examines key benefits like improved security and reliability, hardware platform improvements, and analyzing installed systems for compatibility. The new version of Office and dramatically improved notebooks are also explored. View the recorded event. Registration is complimentary.

Speakers can look good, too. If you're an audiophile into unique looking speakers, the choice is yours. PC Magazine's "10 Wacky Audio Speakers" include a tree stump, a fashionable pair of red stiletto high heels with subwoofer handbag, inflatables, Rubik's Cubes, a four-speaker electrifying plasma globe, and collapsible cardboard boxes.