In a scheduling apparatus, a packet start time with respect to an input packet is calculated, and a slot corresponding to the packet start time is selected from a scheduler including a plurality of slots. The mentioned lightning protection device has advantages of utilizing less components, reducing volume and lowering production cost. The decoding system includes a method for receiving the prints including the 2-dimensional bar code generated by the encoding system through an input device such as a scanner and a camera, searching the 2-dimensional bar code to recognize it, performing color correction and error detection and correction, decompressing the compressed data to decode the original data. The basketball goal system may also include pivot bracket and a connector that may be sized and configured to interconnect the biasing member, the pivot bracket and the rim assembly. The fiber bundle and an objective lens provide a flexible probe for imaging internal tissue for pathological examination on a cellular level.