A packet communications system includes a method for maintaining quality of service by dynamically determining a maximum packet size for a communications system that transports at least one of real-time and time-sensitive data and other data in packets. The pulses are directed into a number of time-quantifiable optical paths. An aggregate set of shingles is determined based on the sets of shingles computed for the group of pages. There is also provided a fastening system for fastening a hand rim to a wheel.