How does the wireless communication system work?

As a frequent buyer of wireless tech, I know wireless communication relies on sending data without wires, unlike wired systems using cables. It primarily uses radio waves, but also includes other electromagnetic waves like microwaves and infrared. Different wireless technologies operate on various frequencies and protocols; for instance, Bluetooth uses short-range radio waves ideal for connecting devices like headphones and keyboards, while Wi-Fi uses slightly higher frequencies for broader network coverage in homes and offices. Cellular networks, such as 4G LTE and 5G, employ even higher frequencies and complex cell tower infrastructure for mobile communication across wider geographical areas. Satellite communication goes even further, using satellites to transmit signals over vast distances, crucial for global navigation systems (like GPS) and international television broadcasting. The choice of technology depends on factors like range, bandwidth, power consumption, and cost.

Signal strength and interference are key considerations. Obstacles like walls, buildings, and weather conditions can weaken radio signals, impacting data speed and reliability. Frequency bands are allocated to different services to prevent interference; this regulated use of the radio spectrum is essential for effective wireless communication. Advances in technology continue to expand bandwidth, improve speed, and extend the range of wireless systems, leading to ever-increasing data rates and new applications.

How do wireless signals get sent?

OMG, wireless signals? It’s like magic, but way cooler! Your phone and that gorgeous new router? They’re gossiping via radio waves! Think of it as a super-speedy, invisible, and totally chic delivery service for all your data. They use different “speeds,” or frequencies, depending on how much you’re downloading – like choosing express shipping versus regular mail.

There’s 2.4 GHz, which is like that trusty, reliable friend – great for everyday stuff, covering wider areas, but maybe not the fastest. Then there’s 5 GHz, the VIP option! It’s super speedy for streaming your fave shows in stunning 4K or playing online games without lag. It’s just like getting the fastest internet plan – totally worth it for that ultra-smooth experience! However, it doesn’t cover as wide of an area. So you’ll need to be closer to the router for optimal performance.

But here’s the best part – it’s all happening simultaneously! Think of it like having a secret, invisible network of stylish, speedy messengers, constantly whispering your data back and forth, so you can shop ’til you drop without interruption!

How does a wireless connection work?

Wi-Fi, the backbone of our wireless world, relies on radio waves – the same technology used by cell phones and radios, but at different frequencies and with varying modulation techniques. This allows for the transmission of data wirelessly, freeing us from the constraints of physical cables.

How it works: At the heart of a Wi-Fi network lies the Access Point (AP), often integrated into your router. The AP broadcasts a signal advertising its network name (SSID) and security settings. Your device, be it a laptop, smartphone, or smart TV, scans for available networks and connects to the AP’s signal if it’s within range and has the correct password.

Once connected, data is transmitted and received using radio frequencies. These frequencies, operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, are carefully regulated to prevent interference. The 2.4 GHz band offers better range but is often more congested, while the 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but with a shorter range.

Factors Affecting Wi-Fi Performance: Several factors can significantly impact the performance of your Wi-Fi network:

Distance from the Access Point: Signal strength weakens with distance, leading to slower speeds and potential dropouts.
Obstacles: Walls, furniture, and even appliances can interfere with the signal, reducing its strength and reliability.
Interference: Other electronic devices operating on the same or similar frequencies can cause interference, leading to slower speeds and unreliable connections.
Network Congestion: Many devices connected to the same network can overwhelm the AP, leading to slower speeds for all users.

Improving your Wi-Fi: To optimize your Wi-Fi performance, consider these tips:

Strategic Placement of your Router: Place your router in a central location, minimizing obstacles.
Use a 5 GHz Band if Possible: For faster speeds, switch to the 5 GHz band when possible, but be aware of the shorter range.
Upgrade your Router: Newer routers often offer better performance and features.
Use a Wi-Fi Extender or Mesh Network: These can extend the range of your Wi-Fi network and improve signal strength in dead zones.

Understanding these factors allows you to troubleshoot common Wi-Fi issues and optimize your home or office network for optimal performance.

How do wireless devices communicate?

Wireless communication is revolutionizing how devices interact. It offers unparalleled flexibility, eliminating the constraints of physical cabling for seamless connectivity. The magic lies in radio waves, which transmit data between devices.

Key Technologies:

Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11): The most common wireless standard for local area networks (LANs), offering varying speeds and ranges depending on the generation (e.g., 802.11ac, 802.11ax/Wi-Fi 6). Consider factors like bandwidth and signal strength when choosing a Wi-Fi solution.
Bluetooth: Primarily used for short-range communication between devices, ideal for peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headphones. Bluetooth versions (e.g., Bluetooth 5) impact speed and range.
Cellular Data (4G, 5G): Enables high-speed internet access through mobile networks, providing connectivity on the go. 5G offers significantly improved speeds and lower latency.
Zigbee & Z-Wave: Lower-power, long-range technologies often used in smart home applications for connecting devices like sensors and actuators. They emphasize energy efficiency and reliability.

How it Works: Data is transmitted and received using radio frequencies. A router acts as a central hub, relaying data between wireless devices and the internet. This allows for a wide range of applications, including internet access, file sharing, and wireless communication between various devices. Signal strength and interference can impact performance.

Factors Affecting Performance:

Distance from the router: Signal strength weakens with distance.
Obstacles: Walls, furniture, and electronic devices can interfere with the signal.
Network congestion: Too many devices on the same network can slow down speeds.
Frequency interference: Other devices using the same frequency can cause interference.

Choosing the Right Technology: The ideal wireless technology depends on the application’s requirements, considering factors like range, speed, power consumption, and security needs.

How does wireless communication transmit data?

Wireless communication, the magic behind our always-connected world, relies on invisible forces to transmit data. Instead of wires, it uses electromagnetic waves – think radio waves, microwaves, and even infrared light – to carry information through the air. These waves are essentially fluctuating electric and magnetic fields that propagate outwards from a transmitting antenna. Your phone, for example, sends and receives these waves to connect to cell towers, Wi-Fi networks, and Bluetooth devices.

Different wireless technologies utilize different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Wi-Fi operates primarily in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, offering a balance between range and speed. Bluetooth, on the other hand, uses lower frequencies for shorter-range connections, ideal for things like headphones and keyboards. Cellular networks use a broader range of frequencies, enabling higher data rates and wider coverage areas. The frequency dictates the characteristics of the wave; higher frequencies generally allow for greater bandwidth (faster data transmission) but often have shorter ranges.

It’s fascinating to consider that the information you’re reading right now, streamed wirelessly, is encoded into these waves. Complex modulation techniques translate digital data into variations in the wave’s amplitude, frequency, or phase – the receiver then decodes these variations to recover the original data. Antenna design is crucial; carefully engineered antennas both optimize signal transmission and reception, maximizing the efficiency of the communication.

In contrast to radio-based wireless communication, optical communication uses light as the carrier wave. Fiber optic cables, a wired form of optical communication, use light pulses traveling through glass fibers to transmit data at incredibly high speeds. However, wireless optical communication, like Li-Fi, also exists, utilizing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to transmit data, offering potential for high-speed, secure connections in localized environments.

What are the physics behind wireless communication?

Wireless communication relies on electromagnetic waves, basically invisible energy ripples that zip through the air. Think of your smartphone antenna – it’s a tiny, electrified metal part that creates these waves when it sends or receives data. These waves carry information, like the picture you’re about to order online!

Different types of waves are used for different purposes. For example, radio waves, used in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, are longer and can travel further. Then you have microwaves, which are shorter and used in things like cellular networks (think 5G) and your microwave oven (don’t try to use them interchangeably!). Even infrared, the kind of light your TV remote uses, is a type of electromagnetic wave. They’re all part of the electromagnetic spectrum, a vast range of invisible energy.

The strength of the signal, and therefore how well your device connects, depends on several factors. Things like distance from the source (your router, a cell tower), obstacles (walls, furniture), and even weather can weaken the signal. That’s why you sometimes get a weak signal in your basement or during a storm. That’s also why those signal booster gadgets exist – they help amplify these waves for better performance. So, next time you seamlessly stream your online shopping haul, remember the invisible magic of electromagnetic waves!

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and wireless communication?

While both Wi-Fi and wireless communication enable devices to connect without cables, they operate differently. Wi-Fi utilizes radio waves to create a local area network (LAN), typically connecting devices to a router which then accesses the broader internet via connections like fiber optic or satellite. This means Wi-Fi speed and reliability are heavily influenced by the router and your internet service provider’s infrastructure; faster internet plans generally translate to faster Wi-Fi. Think of Wi-Fi as a high-speed local network linking your home devices.

In contrast, wireless internet, primarily cellular data, uses radio waves to connect your device directly to a cellular network’s towers. This provides internet access on the go, with coverage depending on your carrier’s network infrastructure. While generally slower than Wi-Fi in optimal conditions, cellular data provides mobility – you’re not tied to a specific location, making it ideal for smartphones and laptops used outside the home or office. Data plans and network congestion significantly impact speed and reliability, however. Choosing between Wi-Fi and cellular data often comes down to balancing speed, stability, location, and cost.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and wireless connection?

Think of it like this: Wi-Fi is like buying something online using in-store pickup. You connect to your home router (the store), which then connects to the internet (the warehouse). You need a subscription to that internet access (like paying for home delivery!), whether it’s fiber optic (super-fast delivery!) or satellite (a bit slower, but reaches everywhere!).

Wireless internet, on the other hand, is like ordering directly from the manufacturer, using a mobile data plan. Your device connects directly to the cellular tower (the manufacturer), using your phone plan as the delivery service. No home router or internet subscription is needed – you get internet access everywhere your carrier provides coverage, which you pay for separately, usually as part of a monthly plan.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Wi-Fi:

Needs a router and an internet subscription (like cable or fiber).
Typically faster speeds and better for home or office use.
Can be more cost-effective for large amounts of data.

Wireless Internet (Cellular Data):

Connects directly to cell towers.
Portable and accessible almost anywhere with cellular coverage.
Data usage is usually capped with different data plans offering varying amounts of data.
Speeds can vary greatly depending on location and network congestion.

Essentially, you’re choosing between a home-based broadband connection (Wi-Fi) and a mobile one (wireless internet). The best option depends on your needs and location.

How does one connect to a wireless network?

Connecting to Wi-Fi is a breeze, especially if you’re already familiar with network settings. Just like setting up my new smart home gadget, you’ll need your router’s IP address – usually found on a sticker on the router itself, or in your router’s documentation (check the manual, it’s often tucked away in the box with the power supply!). Pop that IP address into your web browser’s address bar. Think of it like entering a secret code to unlock your network’s control panel.

Pro-tip: Most routers default to 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, but check your router’s documentation to confirm. This is a common step across various devices, from gaming consoles to smart TVs.

Next, you’ll need the login credentials. These are usually found on the same sticker or in the documentation. This is where you’ll find your username and password – treat these like any other important login, keep them secure! Once logged in, you can manage your network settings, including Wi-Fi passwords and guest network access – perfect for when friends come over. Important: If you’ve changed the default password, make sure to keep a record of it somewhere safe!

Which is better wired or wireless Wi-Fi?

The age-old debate: wired vs. wireless Wi-Fi. While wireless offers undeniable convenience, wired connections consistently outperform them in speed and security. Speed: Wired networks, utilizing Ethernet cables, boast significantly higher bandwidth and lower latency than even the fastest Wi-Fi standards. This translates to smoother streaming, faster downloads, and improved online gaming experiences. Expect significantly reduced buffering and lag with a wired connection.

Security: Wireless networks are inherently more vulnerable to hacking. While strong passwords and encryption protocols like WPA3 help, a determined attacker can potentially intercept data transmitted over the air. A wired connection, however, is far more secure, physically limiting access to your network. This makes it a crucial choice for handling sensitive data or in environments requiring robust security.

Reliability: Wireless signals are susceptible to interference from various sources – microwaves, other electronic devices, even building materials. This can lead to dropped connections, slower speeds, and general unreliability. A wired connection offers consistent, uninterrupted performance, free from these environmental factors. It’s the more dependable option for tasks requiring consistent connectivity.

Cost: While initial setup costs for wired networks might seem higher (requiring cables and potentially network adapters), the long-term reliability and performance often outweigh the upfront investment. Wireless networking requires more sophisticated and often more expensive routers to achieve comparable speeds to a wired connection.

Consider your needs: The best choice depends on your priorities. If speed, security, and reliability are paramount, a wired connection is the clear winner. However, the convenience and mobility offered by wireless networks are hard to ignore in certain situations. Many users utilize a hybrid approach, combining wired and wireless networks to leverage the strengths of both.

What device sends out wireless signal?

The device primarily responsible for broadcasting a wireless signal in your home is the router. It acts as a central hub, receiving the internet signal from your modem and then transmitting it wirelessly (usually via Wi-Fi) to all your connected devices – laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, and more. Think of it as a miniature radio tower for your home network.

But what’s the difference between a router and a modem? A modem connects your home network to the internet service provider (ISP). It essentially translates the digital signals your ISP uses into a form your home network understands and vice-versa. The modem receives the internet connection, and then the router takes that connection and distributes it.

Here’s a breakdown of router functionalities:

Wireless Signal Transmission: This is its primary function, using radio waves to create a Wi-Fi network.
Network Management: The router assigns IP addresses to connected devices, manages network traffic, and ensures secure communication.
Firewall Protection: Many routers include a built-in firewall to protect your network from unauthorized access and potential threats.
Quality of Service (QoS): Some advanced routers allow you to prioritize certain types of traffic (like video streaming) for smoother performance.

Different types of routers exist, each with varying capabilities:

Single-band routers: Operate on either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency.
Dual-band routers: Operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, offering better performance and flexibility.
Tri-band routers: Operate on 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz frequencies, providing even greater speed and bandwidth.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems: Use multiple routers to create a wider and more consistent Wi-Fi coverage area.

Understanding your router’s capabilities is key to optimizing your home network’s performance and security. Choosing the right router depends on your household’s needs and the number of devices you intend to connect.

Can I get Wi-Fi without an internet provider?

Absolutely! You can snag free Wi-Fi at tons of places without needing an internet service provider (ISP). Think cafes – perfect for grabbing a latte and browsing – libraries, airports (great for killing time between flights), and hotels. Many offer free Wi-Fi, while others might have a small fee. Pro-tip: Check review sites like Yelp or TripAdvisor before heading out; they often include details about Wi-Fi speed and reliability, saving you potential frustration. Some public hotspots even offer premium access for a daily or hourly fee, offering faster speeds and less congestion than free options. Consider this if you need to download large files or stream high-quality video. Remember to always be mindful of security when using public Wi-Fi; avoid accessing sensitive information like banking or online shopping on unsecured networks.

Which device controls your home wireless network?

OMG, you guys, my home wifi is everything! And the key to its awesomeness? My amazing router! It’s like, the ultimate networking gadget. Think of it as the party planner for all your devices – your laptop, your phone, your tablet, even your smart fridge (because, obviously!).

What is a router, you ask? It’s the boss of your home network, creating this amazing local area network (LAN) so all your devices can chat and share data like best friends. It’s like, the ultimate connection hub!

Here’s the deal: Your modem (that box from your internet provider) gets the internet signal from the outside world. But the router is the genius that takes that signal and shares it with all your devices inside your home. It’s a crucial step for a smooth, fast wifi experience.

Here’s why a good router is a MUST-HAVE:

Speed: A powerful router means lightning-fast downloads and streaming – essential for binge-watching!
Range: Get wifi coverage in every corner of your house! No more dead zones!
Security: Keeps your data safe from intruders – because no one wants their shopping history exposed!
Features!: Some routers have amazing features like built-in parental controls (to limit screen time!), guest networks (for when friends visit), and even USB ports for sharing files!

Seriously, upgrading your router is one of the best tech investments you can make. Trust me, the difference is amazing. You’ll be so happy you did!

Consider these features when shopping for a router:

Wi-Fi 6 (or 6E) for super-fast speeds
Multiple antennas for better range and coverage
Advanced security features (like WPA3)
Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize important traffic, like video streaming

Do you need internet for wireless connection?

No, you don’t *need* internet access for a wireless connection. A wireless connection, specifically a Wi-Fi network, is simply a way for devices to communicate with each other without physical cables. Think of it like a local area network (LAN). You can easily set up a Wi-Fi network using a router or access point, allowing multiple devices – computers, phones, printers – to share files and resources. However, this local network remains isolated from the broader internet. To access online services, stream movies, or browse the web, you require a broadband internet connection, usually provided by an internet service provider (ISP) and connected to your Wi-Fi router.

Essentially, Wi-Fi is the *technology* for wireless communication; broadband internet is the *service* that provides access to the global network. You can have one without the other. Many home security systems, for example, utilize local Wi-Fi networks for communication between cameras and a central hub without needing an internet connection for basic functionality. While convenient for local file sharing and device-to-device communication, accessing online content requires a subscription to a broadband service and its connection to your router.

Therefore, while a wireless connection is possible without internet, the internet itself is required for internet-based functionalities.

How can data be transferred wirelessly?

As a frequent buyer of wireless tech, I know wireless data transfer boils down to two main methods: radio frequency (RF) and optical. RF, like what powers my Wi-Fi, Bluetooth earbuds, and phone’s cellular connection, uses electromagnetic waves. It’s ubiquitous, but susceptible to interference and signal degradation depending on factors like distance and obstacles. The frequency used significantly impacts range and data transfer speeds; for example, 5GHz Wi-Fi is faster but has shorter range than 2.4GHz.

Optical transmission, on the other hand, leverages light. This includes infrared, like my TV remote, visible light communication (Li-Fi, which is surprisingly fast but still in its developmental stages), and lasers used in fiber optic cables – the backbone of the internet. Optical methods generally boast higher bandwidth and security compared to RF, though they often require line-of-sight and might be more expensive to implement.

It’s interesting to note the recent advancements in Li-Fi, promising much faster speeds than Wi-Fi with less interference. Also, the integration of multiple technologies isn’t uncommon – some devices might use RF for initial connection and then switch to a faster optical method for data transfer. Understanding these underlying technologies helps make better purchasing decisions based on individual needs regarding speed, range, security and cost.

How do devices connect to a wireless network?

Connecting to a wireless network is surprisingly straightforward, even with the plethora of new devices hitting the market. The process generally involves three simple steps:

Enable Wi-Fi: Locate your device’s wireless settings menu (often found under “Settings,” “Connections,” or a similar heading). Ensure Wi-Fi is toggled on. This activates your device’s ability to search for and connect to available networks.
Select Your Network: Your device will scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks, displaying a list of available SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers) – these are the names of the networks. Choose your network from the list. Tip: Look for networks with a strong signal strength indicator (usually represented by bars or dots). A stronger signal translates to a more reliable connection and faster speeds.
Enter the Password: You’ll be prompted to enter the network key or passphrase – this is the password protecting your wireless network. Double-check for typos, as incorrect passwords prevent connection. Pro Tip: Strong passwords are crucial for security. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Many routers offer password generation tools to help you create a robust, yet memorable, password.

Beyond these basics, consider these factors for optimal performance:

Network Type: Most modern devices support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands. 5 GHz networks generally offer faster speeds but shorter range. 2.4 GHz offers better range but slower speeds. The best choice depends on your needs and location within your home or office.
Router Placement: The physical location of your router significantly impacts signal strength and connection reliability. Avoid placing your router near walls, metallic objects, or other electronic devices that could interfere with the signal.
Network Congestion: If your network is slow or unreliable, it could be due to network congestion from multiple devices using the network simultaneously. Consider upgrading to a router with higher bandwidth capabilities or implementing Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize specific devices or applications.

How do you transmit wireless signals?

Ever wondered how your gadgets magically connect without wires? It all boils down to two primary methods of wireless data transmission: radio frequency (RF) and optical.

RF transmission is the workhorse of wireless communication. Think Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, your cell phone signal – they all rely on electromagnetic waves to send data through the air. These waves are invisible, but they’re constantly zipping around us, carrying information from your phone to the cell tower, your laptop to your router, and your headphones to your smartphone. The frequency of these waves determines their properties; higher frequencies generally mean higher bandwidth (faster data transfer), but shorter range. This is why 5GHz Wi-Fi offers faster speeds than 2.4GHz, but doesn’t travel as far.

Different RF technologies use different frequencies and modulation techniques to achieve various goals. For example:

Wi-Fi: Uses various frequencies (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for local area networking.
Bluetooth: Employs lower power, shorter range transmissions for connecting peripherals.
Cellular Networks (4G, 5G): Utilize higher frequencies for broader coverage and faster data rates, often incorporating complex signal processing techniques to overcome obstacles.

Optical transmission uses light to transmit data, offering some unique advantages. This includes:

Infrared (IR): Used in older remote controls and some short-range data transfer applications. It’s easily blocked by obstacles.
Visible Light Communication (VLC): A newer technology using visible light from LEDs to transmit data. It’s gaining traction for its potential high bandwidth and secure transmission.
Laser: Employs highly focused beams of light for long-distance, high-bandwidth communication, like fiber optic internet.

Each technology presents trade-offs. RF is ubiquitous but susceptible to interference, while optical offers high bandwidth but can be limited by line-of-sight requirements. Understanding these fundamental principles helps appreciate the magic behind our increasingly wireless world.

How to setup a wireless network?

Setting up a WiFi network is straightforward, but optimizing it requires attention to detail. First, physically connect your router to your computer using an Ethernet cable for stable configuration. This ensures a reliable connection during setup.

Next, access the router’s configuration page via a web browser. The address is usually found on a sticker on the router itself (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). Here, you’ll create a strong WiFi network name (SSID) and a robust password. Consider using a password manager to generate a complex, yet memorable password. Avoid using easily guessable information like your birthday.

Choosing the right WiFi band (2.4GHz or 5GHz) impacts performance. 2.4GHz offers better range but slower speeds, while 5GHz provides faster speeds but shorter range. Many routers allow you to create separate networks for each band. Experiment to find the optimal setup for your environment.

After configuring the router, scan for wireless networks on your computer or device and select your newly created network. Enter the password to connect. Consider using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption for the strongest security.

For optimal performance, strategically position your router. Avoid placing it near walls, metal objects, or other electronic devices that can interfere with the signal. Also, consider upgrading your router if you experience frequent disconnections or slow speeds. Newer routers often support faster WiFi standards (like Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E) and offer improved performance.

Do I need both internet and wireless?

As a frequent buyer of tech gadgets, I can tell you that you absolutely need internet access for Wi-Fi to be useful. Wi-Fi is just the *method* of connecting to the internet – think of it like the road, not the destination. Without internet access, your Wi-Fi is a really expensive, local-only network. You won’t be able to stream Netflix, browse Facebook, Google anything, or visit pretty much any website you’re used to.

Think of it this way: Internet is the water supply, and Wi-Fi is your pipe. You need the water (internet) to get anything from the pipe (Wi-Fi).

Pro-tip: Consider your internet speed alongside your Wi-Fi. A fast internet connection paired with a strong Wi-Fi signal (5GHz is generally better than 2.4GHz for speed but has a shorter range) will give you the best online experience. Check your router’s placement for optimal signal strength, and consider a mesh network for larger homes to avoid dead zones.

In short: Wi-Fi without internet is like a car without fuel; it’s useless for anything beyond very limited local network functions.

What are the three types of wireless communications?

OMG! Wireless communication – it’s like, *everything*! There are SO many types, but if we’re talking *major* categories, think of it like this: Mobile communication – that’s my phone! I need a new one, the battery life on this one is tragic. And the apps! So many shopping apps! Think about all the amazing things you can do with mobile phones – social media, online shopping, streaming videos of cute puppies – it’s a must-have accessory!

Next up: Aviation communication. Okay, maybe not *my* everyday life, but it’s still wireless! Radio altimeters – how else would planes know their altitude? Air traffic control radars – keeping all those planes safe so I can get to my next shopping destination! So important, so cool, and totally wireless.

And finally, satellite communication! This is HUGE! Satellite broadcasting – that’s how I get all those awesome shopping channels! GPS – essential for finding the BEST deals, even if the store is miles away! Weather observation satellites – because I NEED to know if it’s going to rain before I head out for my next shopping spree!