Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for decoding a plurality of codewords from a received binary bitstream. A first decoding stage processes each of the codewords with a first iterative decoding algorithm based on forward error-correction information of the codewords. A second decoding stage processes selected ones of the codewords with a second iterative decoding algorithm, which is based on forward error-correction information in the selected ones of the codewords. Each codeword selected for the second decoding stage is selected in response to an exit from the decoding of that codeword without the production of a decoded codeword. The second iterative decoding algorithm is configured to enable a greater number of iterations of decoding per codeword than the first iterative decoding algorithm.

Abstract: A low-density parity-check (LDPC) decoder comprising a pre-processor, a core decoder, and a post-processor. The pre-processor is configured to transform a received log-likelihood-ratio (LLR) sequence into a form that enables the core decoder to toggle at a reduced rate during iterative decoding processing thereof. Upon stoppage of the decoding processing corresponding to the LLR sequence, the post-processor operates to apply a complementary transformation to the output of the core decoder, which recovers the corresponding codeword of the LDPC code. An example embodiment of the LDPC decoder operating in this manner may be able to beneficially reduce the power consumption therein by about 10%.

Abstract: The application is related to a forward error correction mechanism in an optical coherent communication system (CS) comprising a FEC encoder (FE) and a FEC decoder (FD) on the basis of a low density parity check, LDPC, code. The FEC encoder encodes blocks of client bits into codewords by adding parity bits calculated by applying a FEC code to the client bits. Besides, the FEC decoder decodes each codeword by applying thereto an iterative message-passing algorithm, each iteration of the message-passing algorithm comprising evaluating a parity-check matrix defining the FEC code. At the FEC encoder, the coding rate of the FEC code may be varied by varying the number of client/information bits per codeword and/or the number of parity bits per codeword. At the FEC decoder, the parity-check matrix is evaluated column by column at each iteration of the message-passing algorithm. The decoder may be a belief propagation decoder.

Abstract: Methods and systems in which a shapable mass, which is processed according to the method or in the system, has a lubricant applied thereto. As it is processed in the system, the shapable mass having the lubricant applied thereto is used to transfer lubricant to a part or parts of the system.

Abstract: Methods and systems in which a shapable mass, which is processed according to the method or in the system, has a lubricant applied thereto. As it is processed in the system, the shapable mass having the lubricant applied thereto is used to transfer lubricant to a part or parts of the system.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to processes for the production and thermal treatment of carbon material, in particular, graphite powders, in an Acheson type oven, using a functional filler comprising graphitic material in particulate form allowing electrical current to flow through the charge. The particulate form of the filler allows greater flexibility and can be used to control the degree of direct and indirect heating, resulting in more uniform products. Such graphite materials may typically be employed as an additive in polymers, batteries, or other applications.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to processes for the production and thermal treatment of carbon material, in particular, graphite powders, in an Acheson type oven, using a functional filler comprising graphitic material in particulate form allowing electrical current to flow through the charge. The particulate form of the filler allows greater flexibility and can be used to control the degree of direct and indirect heating, resulting in more uniform products. Such graphite materials may typically be employed as an additive in polymers, batteries, or other applications.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for increasing the Scott density of synthetic and/or natural graphite powders of any particle size distribution, preferably of highly-pure graphite, by subjecting the graphite powder to an autogenous surface treatment. The inventive powder is used, in particular, for producing dispersions, coatings with an increased graphite/binder ratio and increased electric and thermal conductivity, gas and liquid-tight coatings on metal substrates, thermoplastic or duroplastic graphite-polymer composites, or for producing metallic, non-ferrous sintering materials.

Abstract: A method for increasing the Scott density of synthetic and/or natural graphite powders of any particle size distribution, preferably of highly-pure graphite, by subjecting the graphite powder to an autogenous surface treatment. The powder is used, in particular, for producing dispersions, coatings with an increased graphite/binder ratio and increased electric and thermal conductivity, gas and liquid-tight coatings on metal substrates, thermoplastic or duroplastic graphite-polymer composites, or for producing metallic, non-ferrous sintering materials.