Abstract: A portable device for communicating text messages over a wireless communication link. Short range communications are enabled over open frequencies between at least two devices. The devices are pre-coded to only exchange messages with previously identified devices.

Abstract: A pipe coupling for joining two electrolyte-conveying pipes of electrochemically dissimilar metals and inhibiting galvanic corrosion resulting from the dissimilarity. A tubular pipe coupling has a pair of axially spaced protection electrodes mounted to its interior wall in electrical contact with the electrolyte. A control electrode is also mounted to the interior wall of the tubular pipe coupling between one of the pipes and the pair of protection electrodes. A current sensing circuit is connected to sense the galvanic current through the control electrode. A controllably variable source of electrical current is connected to vary the current through the protection electrodes. A negative feedback control circuit receives the sensed current as a feedback signal and controls the variable source to increase the electrical current through the protection electrodes and the electrolyte so that the sensed current is reduced thereby reducing the galvanic current in the electrolyte between the pipes.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for taking a Raman spectrum of a sample is disclosed. In one embodiment, for example, an integrated Raman spectrometer is provided. In another embodiment, a portable Raman spectrometer is provided. In another embodiment, a Raman spectrometer is provided comprising a collimated beam tube for transmitting excitation radiation to an external optical system, such as a microscope, a telescope or a camera lens. In another embodiment, a method for correcting a Raman spectrum for background interference is provided. In yet another embodiment, a method for rejecting fluorescence in a Raman spectrometer is provided. A chemical reactor comprising a built-in Raman detector for monitoring a chemical reaction in a reaction chamber of the reactor is also provided.