Such machines could be used for scientific research or surveillance, or as relay stations to transmit communication signals across long distances.

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For many years, passengers have been told that some electronic devices, including cell phones, can interfere with aircraft navigation and communication signals.

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But that first requires the service to find an off-the-shelf radio that can carry the necessary signals to enable unfettered communication between diverse radios and users.

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In the 1950s, when the first artificial satellites were being launched, first by the Russians then by the United States, Mr Pierce calculated that 25 of them, suitably placed, could provide almost continuous communication around the world by bouncing signals from continent to continent.

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In the wake of its recalls, Toyota found that its highly centralized, engineering-centric communication structure slowed down its ability to understand early warning signals about quality.

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T.s might even send out cunningly benign signals as bait in which to lure us into communication.

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Home energy management systems allow communication between digital devices and major appliances so customers can respond to price signals sent from the utility.

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All the signals I got indicated that things were going well with us, but then our communication stopped.

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