Best Equipment for Live-streaming

Live streaming is an excellent way to connect with your audience in real-time, but to deliver a high-quality stream, you need the right equipment. In this article, we’ll explore the best equipment for live streaming and how to choose the right gear for your needs.

1. Camera: The camera is the most important piece of equipment for live streaming. A high-quality camera can help ensure that your stream looks professional and polished. Consider a camera with at least 1080p resolution and a wide-angle lens for capturing a larger field of view. Popular options include the Canon XF405 and the Sony PXW-Z90V.  Also consider:  Panasonic AG-CX350, Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K, Nikon Z6 II, Sony a7 III, or the Canon EOS C200.

2. Microphone: A good microphone is essential for delivering high-quality audio during a live stream. A directional microphone is ideal for live streaming as it can help reduce background noise and capture clear audio. Consider a condenser microphone like the Blue Yeti or the Rode NT-USB for high-quality sound.  Also consider:  Shure SM7B, Audio-Technica AT4053b, Rode VideoMic Pro+,  Sennheiser MKE 600, and the  Neumann TLM 103.

3. Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for creating a professional-looking live stream. Consider using softbox lights or ring lights to create a well-lit environment. If you’re on a budget, natural lighting can work well too.  Also consider:  Godox SL-60W, Aputure AL-MX, Litra Pro, Westcott Flex Cine RGBW Mat, and the Nanlite Forza 60B.

4. Computer: Your computer is the backbone of your live stream setup. A powerful computer with a fast processor and plenty of RAM is essential for streaming high-quality video. Consider a computer with an Intel Core i7 processor and at least 16GB of RAM.  Also consider:  Apple MacBook Pro (M1), ASUS ROG Strix G15, Dell XPS 13, HP Spectre x360, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon.

5. Streaming software: To stream your content, you’ll need streaming software. Popular options include OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS. These software programs allow you to customize your stream and add overlays, graphics, and other elements to enhance your content.  Also consider:  XSplit, Lightstream, vMix, Wirecast, and BeLive.

6. Capture card: If you plan to stream console games, you’ll need a capture card to capture the video output from your console. Popular options include the Elgato Game Capture HD60 S and the AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus.  Also consider:  Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro 4K, Hauppauge HD PVR Rocket, AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K, Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro MK.2, or the Magewell Pro Capture Dual HDMI.

7. Internet connection: A fast and stable internet connection is crucial for live streaming. Consider investing in a high-speed internet plan with upload speeds of at least 5 Mbps.  Who to consider:  AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, Verizon Fios, Xfinity Gigabit Pro, and CenturyLink Fiber.

8. Tripod or mount: To keep your camera steady, you’ll need a tripod or a mount. Consider a tripod with a fluid head for smooth movement and easy adjustments.  Consider:  Manfrotto 504X Fluid Video Head & Aluminum Tripod System, Gitzo GT5563GS Systematic Series 5 Systematic Tripod, Sachtler ACE XL Tripod System with CF Legs & Mid-Level Spreader, Benro BV10H Pro Video Tripod Kit, Induro Alloy 8M AT214 Tripod with PHQ1 5-Way Panhead, Davis & Sanford PROVISTA100 Provista Tripod with FM18 Head, and Vinten V8AS-CP2F Vision Pozi-Loc Tripod System.

The right equipment is essential for delivering a high-quality live stream. From the camera to the internet connection, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in creating a professional-looking and engaging live stream. Consider your needs and budget when choosing gear, and don’t be afraid to invest in high-quality equipment to deliver the best possible experience to your audience.

Like, Comment, Follow Me, Subscribe – It’s Free!

The “Why Not Attitude” Part 2

Are you struggling to balance your career and personal life? You’re not alone. The traditional methods of climbing the corporate ladder may not work for most, leaving them (you) feeling burned out and unfulfilled. But there’s a new philosophy that can help – the “Why not?” mindset.

The “Why not?” philosophy is about being open to new ideas and experiences without immediately dismissing them. It’s about approaching opportunities with curiosity and a willingness to take risks. By embracing challenges and uncertainty, you can discover new possibilities and grow as an individual. But it’s not about blindly embracing every opportunity – it’s about making informed decisions based on your values and goals.

If you’re ready to embrace the “Why not?” philosophy, here are 9 tips for success:

1. Prioritize self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential to success. When you prioritize self-care, you are able to perform at your best and avoid burnout. Self-care can include anything from exercising regularly, eating well, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks when you need them.

2. Have SMART goals for your career: SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. When you have SMART goals, you have a clear plan of what you want to achieve and how to get there. This helps you stay focused and motivated.

3. Learn to delegate: Delegating tasks to others allows you to focus on what you do best and frees up time for other important tasks. It also helps build trust and respect among your team.

4. Build a support system: Having a support system can help you navigate challenges and provide motivation when you need it most. This can include friends, family, mentors, or colleagues.

5. Practice time management: Time management is key to success. You can prioritize your tasks, set deadlines, and plan your schedule to make the most of your time.

6. Use technology to your advantage: Technology can help you streamline tasks, communicate more efficiently, and work more effectively. From project management tools to social media, technology can be a valuable asset.

7. Seek flexibility: Flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and take advantage of unexpected opportunities. Being open to new ideas and ways of doing things can help you stay ahead of the curve.

8. Take breaks: Taking breaks is essential to avoid burnout and maintain focus. Whether it’s a short walk outside or a vacation, taking time away from work can help you recharge and come back stronger.

9. Develop a “Why not?” attitude: A “Why not?” attitude means being open to new ideas and taking risks. It means not being afraid to fail or try something new. A “Why not?” attitude can help you overcome barriers and achieve your goals.

By following these tips, you can create the boundaries necessary for success and achieve freedom and fulfillment in both your professional and personal life. So why not give it a try? Join me with like-minded people and start thriving today.

Like, Follow-Me, Comment or Subscribe- it’s free!

What Is Forking Edit Material?

Sounds like I’m trying to avoid cursing – right? Wellllll in a very adjacent way, I may be, but that’s not what I’m talking about.

Forking is a term used in video editing that refers to creating multiple versions or copies of a project or sequence as a way to save different versions of the same information. This is typically done to give editors the flexibility to experiment with different approaches to a project without losing any of their original work.

When forking information, an editor will create a new sequence or project that is a copy of the original. This allows them to make changes to the copy without affecting the original. They can then experiment with different edits, transitions, and effects in the copy, and compare the results to the original to see which approach works best.

Forking can also be used as a way to save different versions of a project at different stages of the editing process. For example, an editor may create a fork of a project when they are halfway through the editing process, and then create another fork when they are close to completing the project. This allows them to go back to earlier versions of the project if they need to make changes or try a different approach.

By forking information, editors can save time and avoid the risk of losing their work. They can experiment with different approaches to a project without affecting the original, and keep multiple versions of a project at different stages of the editing process. This can be particularly useful when working on complex projects with many different elements that need to be coordinated and integrated into the final product.

Okkkk. How do you successfully fork a project?

Since the Fork copy is often used for making changes or testing new edits without affecting the original project.

To successfully and efficiently perform forking in video editing, there are a few best practices to keep in mind:

  1. Choose the right video editing software: There are many video editing software tools available, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. Choose the software that best fits your needs and has the features you require.
  2. Keep forking to a minimum: While forking can be useful, it can also lead to confusion and version control issues. Only fork when necessary, and try to keep the number of forks to a minimum.
  3. Keep forks up-to-date: If you do create a fork, it’s important to keep it up-to-date with the original video project. This ensures that any changes made to the original video are reflected in the fork.
  4. Use duplicate sequences: Instead of forking, consider using duplicate sequences to make changes to your video project. Duplicate sequences allow you to work on a separate copy of the project without creating a new project file.
  5. Collaborate effectively: If you’re working with others on a forked video project, make sure you’re collaborating effectively. Use tools like shared project files and version control to ensure that changes are properly reviewed and tested before being merged back into the main project.

By following these best practices, forking can be a powerful tool for video editing. It allows editors to experiment with new edits and make changes without affecting the original project, while still maintaining an up-to-date copy of the project.

If you’d like more information, please reach out.

Comment, Like 👍 Subscribe – it’s free!

Digging Out of A Career Black Hole

No matter profession you’re in.  One day you might find yourself here…..But where is here?

A career is an essential aspect of one’s life. It is not only a source of livelihood but also a means of personal growth and fulfillment. However, many people find themselves in a career “black hole” at some point in their lives. This is a situation where they feel stuck in a job that does not offer any prospects for growth, development, and advancement. If you are in a career black hole, you may feel unfulfilled, demotivated, and frustrated. However, there are solutions to get out of it.

Here are some signs that you may be in a career black hole:

1. You are not growing professionally

If you are not learning or growing in your job, it could be a sign that you are in a career black hole. A good job should offer you the opportunity to learn new skills and develop professionally. If you are not getting any training, promotions, or opportunities to take on new challenges, it could be a sign that you are in a dead-end job.

2. You are not challenged

If your job is too easy or repetitive, you may not be challenged enough. A good job should offer you the opportunity to use your skills and abilities to the fullest. If you are not being challenged, you may feel bored and unfulfilled.

3. You are not happy

If you dread going to work every day, it could be a sign that you are not happy in your job. A good job should offer you some degree of job satisfaction. If you are not happy, it could affect your mental and emotional well-being.

If you identify with any of these signs, you may be in a career black hole. Here are some solutions to get out of it:

1. Evaluate your skills and interests

Start by evaluating your skills and interests. Identify the skills that you have and the ones that you would like to develop. Think about the type of work that interests you and the industries that you would like to work in. This will help you to identify the type of job that would be a good fit for you.

2. Update your resume and cover letter

Update your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experience. Make sure that they are tailored to the type of job that you are interested in. This will increase your chances of getting a job interview.

3. Network

Networking is a great way to find job opportunities. Attend industry events, job fairs, and conferences. Connect with people on LinkedIn and other professional networks. Let people know that you are looking for a job. You never know when an opportunity may arise.

4. Consider further education

Further education can help you to develop new skills and improve your job prospects. Consider enrolling in a course or a program that is relevant to your career goals. This will not only improve your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to your career.

5. Take on new challenges

If you are not being challenged in your current job, seek opportunities to take on new challenges. Volunteer for new projects or take on additional responsibilities. This will not only help you to develop new skills but also demonstrate your initiative and commitment to your job.

Being in a career black hole can be demotivating and frustrating. However, there are solutions to get out of it. Start by evaluating your skills and interests, update your resume and cover letter, network, consider further education, and take on new challenges. With these strategies, you can break free from a career black hole and find a job that offers you growth, development, and fulfillment.

Please share your experiences. It’s free!

101: What is ESAM Scripting for YouTube & SCTE DAI?

First, what is SCTE? (pronounced scut-e). The Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) is a professional association that offers education, certification, and standards for the telecommunications industry. SCTE serves as a technical and applied science leader, providing training and certification programs in broadband, cable networks, and digital video. It has a diverse membership of professionals, including engineers and technicians, who work in the cable and telecommunications industries.

Next, what is ESAM? ESAM stands for Event Signaling and Management. It is a protocol used in cable networks to provide advanced notification and management of network events. ESAM allows for the delivery of messages that can be used to signal events such as program start and end times, emergency alerts, and other network events. It is an important component of the CableLabs Enhanced Content Specification, which is a set of technical specifications used in digital TV networks. ESAM is designed to enhance the functionality and interoperability of networks, improving the viewing experience for subscribers.

ESAM scripting for SCTE:

1. Identify the video content that needs to be marked up with SCTE markers. These could be ad breaks, chapter markers, or other significant events in the video.

2. Use an ESAM editor tool to create the ESAM script. There are several tools available, such as ESAM Creator and ESAM Builder. These tools allow you to create, edit, and validate the ESAM script.

3. Define the SCTE markers in the ESAM script. Each marker should include the timecode, duration, and type of event. For example, an ad break marker could be defined as a “cue-in” event with a duration of 30 seconds.

4. Validate the ESAM script to ensure that it is compliant with the SCTE specification. Use the ESAM editor tool to run the validation process and check for any errors or warnings.

5. Save the ESAM script and upload it to your YouTube account. You can do this by selecting the video content in your YouTube Studio dashboard, navigating to the “Advanced” tab, and uploading the ESAM script in the “Content ID” section.

6. Review the video content to ensure that the SCTE markers are working correctly. You can use the YouTube player to test the markers and make any necessary adjustments to the ESAM script.

By following these steps, you can create an ESAM script for YouTube SCTE that will help you manage and monetize your video content more effectively.

An ESAM script is an XML-based file that contains information about events or markers that occur in video content. These markers can be used for a variety of purposes, such as indicating ad breaks, chapter markers, or other significant events in the video.

Here is an example of an ESAM script for a dynamic commercial SCTE marker in XML format:

“`xml
<?xml version=”1.0″ encoding=”UTF-8″?>
<ESAM xmlns=”urn:ietf:params:xml:ns:esam:1.0″>
<EventSignal Time=”00:05:00.000″ Duration=”00:00:30.000″ Type=”Commercial”>
<Metadata>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdType”>Dynamic</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdID”>1234</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”AdTitle”>Example Ad</MetadataItem>
<MetadataItem Name=”Advertiser”>Acme Corp</MetadataItem>
</Metadata>
</EventSignal>
</ESAM>
“`

In this example, the ESAM script includes a “Commercial” event signal that occurs at the 5-minute mark of the video and lasts for 30 seconds. The metadata associated with the event signal includes information about the ad type, ID, title, and advertiser.

By using ESAM scripts like this one, video content creators and distributors can manage and monetize their content more effectively, while providing a better experience for viewers.

More scripting tomorrow…. stay tuned!

Level Up Your Resume: Become An Achiever!

Everyone writes about networking, researching, targeting companies, identifying the position or positions you want, and you should, it’s all important and solid advice, but there is more to the job hunt than that…

It’s not a difficult twist it’s just a shift in how your approach is.

Are you Endlessly sending an updated draft of your resume out for the 50 some-teenth time to the internet void, and that isn’t working?  I have had the same experience.  

Years ago it was easy, make a phone call, or send out a resume, interview, and hired.  Today – ummm not so much.

I had been very “busy” changing up my skills, key words, etc to “match” what the resume machine algorithms have been asked to search for (and will discard if your resume isn’t at least a 70% match).  It’s true, a human will NOT EVER see your resume because there’s a program that automatically eliminates you if you haven’t included the sought after key words.  Even worse, you could be algorithm’d out for 6-12 months for a “bad” resume submission. 

I had received NO answers back aside from the automated “thank you for applying”, with decades of experience in the industry.  Incredibly frustrating!  But, I needed to change the way I worded my resume.  I was being seen as a doer.  Isn’t that good though?  Again….Not so much.  Hiring Managers need to see not only what you’ve done, but what you’ve accomplished.  

I was qualified, I could do the jobs I applied for, even better, I actually WANTED the jobs I applied for, I wasn’t just “looking for work”,  I was looking for what I wanted in my life too.  I’ve been lucky to get to an ebb and flow now.

But, I needed to change the language in my resume to show that I still take / took action and that I’m results-oriented person (an over-utilized phrase x1000 btw).  But, follow a few simple steps to level-up your resume:

1. Focus on your achievements: Instead of just listing your responsibilities, highlight your accomplishments and the results you achieved. Use action verbs to describe your achievements and quantify your accomplishments with numbers and percentages.

2. Use strong, action-oriented language in your resume. Avoid passive voice and use verbs that convey a sense of action and accomplishment.

3. Tailor your language to the job posting: Look at the job posting and use language that aligns with the job requirements. Use similar keywords and phrases that the employer is looking for to convey that you have the skills and experience they are seeking.

4. Highlight your skills and how they have contributed to your accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have used your skills to achieve results.

5. Use bullet points to break up dense paragraphs and make your resume easier to read. Use short, punchy statements that highlight your accomplishments and results.

6. Proofread, Proofread, and Proofread again – did I mention Proofread your resume?  Oh yes I did!  Do this carefully to ensure that your language is clear, concise, and error-free. Make sure that your accomplishments and results are easy to understand and are presented in a way that is easy to read.

Overall, by focusing on your networking, your achievements, using strong language, tailoring your language to the job posting, highlighting your skills, using bullet points, and proofreading your resume, you can change the way you as a person appear to a Hiring Manager.  So make yourself human, because you are human.  Make them know you, even better make them WANT to know YOU!   You are your own business, you don’t have to sell yourself, just show the best version of You that you’ve got!  You’re worth it.

This can help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired.

What is S3? Buckets? SDKs? A Quick Overview

Amazon S3, or Simple Storage Service, is a cloud-based storage service provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It allows users to store and retrieve any amount of data from anywhere on the web, making it a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike.

At its core, Amazon S3 is an object storage system. This means that data is stored as objects, rather than in a traditional file hierarchy. Objects can be of any size, from a few bytes to terabytes, and are stored in containers called buckets. Users can create, manage, and delete buckets through the AWS Management Console or with the AWS SDKs.

Oh riiiiight …What are SDKs? 😊

SDK stands for Software Development Kit. It is a collection of software development tools that allow developers to create applications for a specific software package, hardware platform, operating system, or programming language. SDKs usually include libraries, APIs, documentation, and other utilities that help developers to build software applications that integrate with existing systems or platforms.

Now Back to S3…..

One of the key benefits of S3 is its scalability. It can handle an infinite amount of data and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. This is achieved through a distributed architecture, where data is stored across multiple servers and locations. This also means that data is highly available and durable, with multiple levels of redundancy and built-in error correction.

Amazon S3 also offers a range of features for managing data. Users can set up access controls, encryption, and versioning to ensure that their data is secure and accessible only to authorized users. They can also use lifecycle policies to automatically move data to lower-cost storage tiers or delete it after a certain period of time.

Under the hood, S3 uses a combination of technologies to provide its high performance and scalability. It uses a distributed system architecture, with data stored across multiple servers and locations. It also uses a highly optimized network stack, with low-latency connections to AWS services and the internet.

In addition, S3 uses advanced algorithms and caching techniques to optimize data retrieval. For example, it uses parallel processing to retrieve multiple objects at once, and it caches frequently accessed data for faster retrieval times.

Overall, Amazon S3 is a powerful and flexible storage solution that offers a range of features for managing and securing data. It is a popular choice for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises, and is used for a wide range of applications, from backup and archiving to content delivery and data analytics.

Do you use S3? Comment & Let me know how – it’s free!

Short Tutorial: SMB

SMB stands for Server Message Block, which is a protocol for sharing files, printers, and other resources on a network. In Mac Finder, SMB is used to connect to Windows file servers or other network-attached storage devices that use the SMB protocol for sharing files.

When you connect to an SMB server using Mac Finder, you can access files and folders on the server just like you would on your local computer. You can browse the server’s file system, open files, copy files to or from the server, and perform other file management tasks. 

To connect to an SMB server using Mac Finder, you will need to know the server’s name or IP address, as well as a valid username and password with permissions to access the shared files or folders.

Practice this at least 3 times – get your clicks & Muscle Memory In!

👍 Like, Follow, and subscribe to this article blog – it’s free!

Quick Comparison of Broadcast Cellular Aggregators

Bonded cellular aggregators are devices that combine multiple cellular connections from different carriers into a single, more reliable and faster connection. This technology is commonly used in live video streaming, where a reliable and fast internet connection is crucial. Bonded cellular aggregators can also be used to improve internet connectivity in remote areas where traditional broadband connections are not available. The technology works by splitting the data stream into smaller packets and then sending those packets simultaneously over multiple cellular networks. The receiving device then combines the packets and reassembles them into a single data stream. This process helps to reduce latency and improve overall connection quality.

There are several companies that provide bonded cellular aggregators, including LiveU, TVU Networks, Mushroom Networks, Teradek, and Peplink. These companies offer a range of devices and solutions for different types of applications, from small portable units for on-the-go streaming to rack-mounted systems for studio production. Each company has its own unique features and capabilities, so it’s important to evaluate them based on your specific needs and requirements.

– LiveU is a leading provider of bonded cellular solutions for live video streaming/ broadcasting. Their products range from small backpack-sized units to larger rack-mounted systems. LiveU’s solutions are known for their reliability and high-quality video transmission. LiveU products are popular among broadcasters for their high reliability and ability to transmit high-quality live video from remote locations.

– TVU Networks is another popular provider of bonded cellular solutions for live video streaming. Their products include both portable and rack-mounted units, and they offer unique features like remote control and automation. TVU products are used by broadcasters to transmit live video from the field, and they offer features like remote control and automation to simplify the broadcasting workflow.

– Mushroom Networks provides a range of WAN aggregation solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Their products are designed to improve internet connectivity in remote areas and areas with poor infrastructure. Mushroom Networks provides bonded cellular solutions for broadcasting, with a focus on improving internet connectivity in remote areas. Their products are designed to help broadcasters transmit live video from areas with poor infrastructure or limited connectivity.

– Teradek is a provider of video encoding and transmission solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Teradek products range from small portable units to larger rack-mounted systems, and they offer features like wireless camera control and remote configuration. Teradek products are used by broadcasters to transmit high-quality live video from remote locations, and they offer features like wireless camera control and remote configuration.

– Peplink is a provider of SD-WAN and WAN aggregation solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Peplink products are designed for both business (broadcasting included)and consumer use and offer features like cloud-basedLO management and failover protection. Peplink provides bonded cellular solutions for broadcasting, with a focus on SD-WAN and WAN aggregation. Peplink products are designed to improve internet connectivity and network reliability for broadcasters, ensuring that live video broadcasts are transmitted smoothly and without interruption.

Each company has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user.

Broadcast Streaming Technology 101: The Basics

Broadcast streaming technology has revolutionized the way we consume media content. It has made it possible to distribute audio and video content to a large audience across the globe in real-time. In this blog, we’ll explore the basics of broadcast streaming technology and how it works.

Broadcast streaming technology is a way of transmitting audio or video content over the internet in real-time. It allows users to access live content from anywhere in the world, using a variety of devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. In essence, broadcast streaming technology makes it possible to deliver live content to a global audience with minimal latency.

To understand how broadcast streaming technology works, we must first understand the difference between streaming and downloading. When we download a file, we save it to our local device and can access it at any time, even without an internet connection. On the other hand, when we stream content, we access it in real-time, typically through a browser or app, without downloading it to our device.

One of the broadcast streaming technologies uses a protocol called Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) to transmit live content from the source to the end-user. The RTMP protocol is a low-latency protocol, which means that it minimizes the delay between the time the content is broadcast and the time it reaches the end-user.

To broadcast content using RTMP, a video encoder is used to capture the audio and video content and convert it into a digital format. The encoded content is then sent to a streaming server, where it is stored and distributed to the end-users.

One of the key benefits of broadcast streaming technology is its ability to scale. Streaming servers can handle large amounts of traffic and distribute content to a large number of users in real-time. This makes it possible to broadcast live events, such as sports matches, concerts, and conferences, to a global audience.

Another benefit of broadcast streaming technology is its ability to personalize content. Streaming technology allows for targeted advertising, which means that advertisers can deliver ads to specific audiences based on their interests and demographics. This makes advertising more effective and helps content creators monetize their content.

In recent years, broadcast streaming technology has become more accessible to content creators and businesses of all sizes. Many streaming platforms, such as YouTube Live, Facebook Live, and Twitch, offer free or low-cost streaming services that allow users to broadcast live content to their audiences. This has made it easier for small businesses, influencers, and content creators to reach a global audience.

In conclusion, broadcast streaming technology has transformed the way we consume media content. It has made it possible to broadcast live content to a global audience in real-time, making it easier for businesses and content creators to reach their target audience. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect broadcast streaming technology to become even more accessible and user-friendly, allowing for more personalized and engaging content experiences.