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Is Indoor Solar the Answer for IoT Sensor Power?

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For IoT sensors to operate reliably in indoor environments, the choice of power supply method is critical. Especially in locations where maintenance is challenging or battery replacement is costly, solutions that enable self-generated power are gaining attention. Among these, indoor solar (Indoor PV) is one of the most promising options according to many experts. Advantages of Indoor Solar Continuous Power Supply – In an office environment with 200–400 lux illumination, it can consistently generate 15–35 μW/cm² of power. Reduced Maintenance Costs – Longer battery replacement or recharge cycles lead to significant long-term savings. Eco-Friendly – Reduces fossil fuel-based electricity usage and contributes to lower carbon emissions. Limitations and Considerations Output Limitations – In low-light or shaded areas, it may be difficult to secure sufficient power. Installation Location – Panels must be placed to receive the maximum possible light for optimal efficienc...
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Why the Heatwave Hurt Ice Cream Sales

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Ice cream has always been considered a go-to summer snack. But according to recent statistics, sales of ice cream in Korea dropped by a staggering 35% in the summer of 2024 compared to the previous year. Despite the sweltering heat, why are consumers turning away from this classic cold treat? This post explores the reasons behind this unexpected market downturn. 1. The Paradox: Excessive Heat Makes Ice Cream Less Appealing It’s common sense that higher temperatures drive up ice cream sales. However, once temperatures exceed 35°C , people tend to choose faster thirst-quenching options like cold drinks or water . Ice cream is a dessert meant to be enjoyed slowly, which becomes unappealing under extreme heat. 2. Rising Production Costs: Coconut Oil, Dairy, and Sugar Ice cream producers are also dealing with significantly increased ingredient costs . Coconut oil , a key imported ingredient, is subject to volatile global prices. Combined with rising dairy and sugar costs, this has...
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Differences Between IR Remote and Smart Key: From Function to Security

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Two of the most common wireless control technologies in our daily lives are the IR remote and the smart key for vehicles . While both allow for remote control, they differ significantly in how they function, their communication protocols, and their security mechanisms. In this post, we’ll compare these two technologies in terms of principles, usage environments, and security. 1. Difference in Communication Method IR Remotes (Infrared Remotes) transmit invisible light signals via infrared LEDs. These signals are usually modulated at 38kHz and sent in a straight line toward the receiving sensor. Smart Keys use Low Frequency (LF: 125kHz) and Radio Frequency (RF: 315MHz/433MHz) to communicate. The LF is used to detect proximity, and the RF is used to exchange encrypted authentication data with the vehicle. 2. Distance and Directionality IR Remote: Typically works up to 5–10 meters, but must be aimed directly at the receiver with no obstructions. Smart Key: ...
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What Does Tangsuyuk Mean? The Origin of Its Name in Korean-Chinese Cuisine

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1. The Meaning Behind the Name 'Tangsuyuk (糖醋肉)' The word ‘Tangsuyuk’ is composed of Chinese characters: ‘糖 (Tang)’ means sugar (sweet), ‘醋 (Su)’ means vinegar (sour), and ‘肉 (Yuk)’ means meat . So literally, it translates to “sweet and sour meat.” Just from its name, you can infer both the flavor and the cooking method of this dish. 2. The Chinese Original: ‘Gulu Rou (咕嚕肉)’ Tangsuyuk originates from the Cantonese dish “Gulu Rou (咕嚕肉)” , a sweet and sour pork dish from Guangdong, China. It’s made by cutting pork into bite-sized pieces, deep-frying them, and coating them with a sweet and sour sauce. In Cantonese, ‘咕嚕’ implies a crispy and tangy taste, which perfectly describes the dish. 3. How Korea Reinterpreted Tangsuyuk Once introduced to Korea, Tangsuyuk was adapted to suit Korean palates. The sauce became thicker, sweeter , and a wider variety of vegetables were added, such as carrots, onions, cucumbers, and bell peppers. The batter became crispi...
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Never Get Bored with Salads! Try These Themed Ideas by Day

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Salads are the ultimate go-to for healthy eating, but let’s face it—eating the same thing every day gets boring fast. The solution? Give each day a unique salad theme . With just a bit of planning, your daily salad can become something you actually look forward to! Monday – Mediterranean Style Ingredients: Romaine, cherry tomatoes, black olives, feta cheese, cucumber Dressing: Olive oil + balsamic vinegar + oregano Flavor: Light, refreshing, and easy on digestion Tuesday – Korean-Inspired Ingredients: Lettuce, perilla leaves, chives, grilled chicken, dried seaweed flakes Dressing: Gochujang (Korean chili paste) + sesame oil + vinegar + sesame seeds Flavor: Spicy and flavorful, appetite-boosting Wednesday – Mexican Vibes Ingredients: Corn, avocado, black beans, tomato, iceberg lettuce Dressing: Lime juice + cilantro + olive oil + salt Flavor: Creamy, tangy, and super filling Thursday – Asian Fusion Ingredients: Cabbage, bell pepp...
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Highlight vs Induction: What's the Difference and Which Should You Buy?

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Kitchen Renovation Dilemma: Highlight vs Induction In today's kitchen appliance market, induction and highlight cooktops are commonly compared as the two major types of electric ranges. Though they look similar, they differ significantly in how they operate, their performance, safety, cost, and cookware compatibility. This article breaks down the key differences to help you choose the one that best fits your needs. 1. Difference in Heating Mechanism Highlight: Uses an electric heating element beneath a glass surface to heat the cooktop and then the cookware. A traditional radiant heat method. Induction: Uses high-frequency alternating current to generate a magnetic field, which directly heats the base of magnetic cookware. 2. Heat-Up Speed and Efficiency Induction is faster and more energy-efficient because it heats the cookware directly with minimal heat loss. Highlight takes longer as it transfers heat from the coil to the glass top and then to the ...
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What Does an Electrolytic Capacitor Do? The Heart of a Smoothing Circuit

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A component that always appears in power circuits is the electrolytic capacitor . Labeled as 'uF' on spec sheets, what exactly does this part do? Let’s explore in detail the role of the electrolytic capacitor as the core of voltage smoothing in electronic devices.     1. What Is an Electrolytic Capacitor? An electrolytic capacitor is a polarized high-capacitance capacitor . It typically uses aluminum electrolyte or tantalum electrolyte . While relatively large in size, it provides high capacitance and is essential in power supply circuits, smoothing circuits, and voltage regulation . It has a cylindrical shape and is marked with a – symbol for polarity. Connecting it incorrectly may lead to explosion or leakage . 2. Smoothing Out the Ripple After Rectification Converting AC power to DC involves two steps: rectification and smoothing . After using diodes to rectify AC into DC, residual ripple waves remain in the voltage. Here, ele...
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