Recent Issues of The Tech Toolbox

Introducing PydanticAI: A Cleaner Way to Build AI Agents

Stephen CollinsDec 7, 2024
Explore PydanticAI, a type-safe Python framework that simplifies building production-grade AI agents. Learn how it brings str...
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Unlocking Insights: Using Multimodal LLMs to Parse and Extract Structured Data from Complex PDFs

Stephen CollinsNov 29, 2024
This newsletter explores how to extract structured data from complex PDFs containing text, images, charts, and tables. Discov...
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From Simple Scripts to Scalable AI: Building Smarter Data Pipelines

Stephen CollinsNov 23, 2024
In this edition, I share lessons learned from transitioning from simple scripts to scalable AI data pipelines. Explore how a ...
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The Real Cost of Hosted LLM Applications: Time, Money, and Sanity

Stephen CollinsNov 16, 2024
In this edition, we dive into the hidden challenges of building applications with hosted LLMs, from latency and cost overruns...
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Tracking AI-Driven Processes with Activity Logs and LLMs

Stephen CollinsNov 2, 2024
In this edition, we explore how activity logs enhance transparency, accountability, and troubleshooting in AI-powered systems...
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How to Optimize LLM Calls for Cost-effective SaaS Operations

Stephen CollinsOct 26, 2024
In this edition, I dive into strategies for optimizing LLM API calls to keep SaaS operations lean and sustainable. Discover p...
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Navigating the Landscape of Multi-Agent Systems: Distributed vs. In-Process Approaches

Stephen CollinsOct 19, 2024
In this edition, I explore the dynamics of multi-agent systems, comparing distributed applications to in-process approaches l...
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Maximizing LLM Efficiency with JSON Schemas

Stephen CollinsOct 12, 2024
In this edition, we explore how JSON schemas can enhance the efficiency of data pipelines for large language models (LLMs). L...
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Unlocking Hidden Performance in Vector Search: Practical Tips

Stephen CollinsOct 5, 2024
This edition shares actionable tips to optimize the performance of your vector search setup. From efficient indexing and batc...
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SQLite for GraphRAG: Lightweight Graph Database for Document Retrieval

Stephen CollinsSep 28, 2024
This edition explores the use of SQLite as a graph database for small-scale GraphRAG applications. With its simplicity, flexi...
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Contextual Retrieval: Elevating AI with Context-Aware Information Retrieval

Stephen CollinsSep 21, 2024
This edition covers Anthropic’s Contextual Retrieval, a breakthrough in Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) that leverages c...
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MemoRAG: A Memory-Enhanced Approach to Next-Gen RAG

Stephen CollinsSep 14, 2024
This edition discusses MemoRAG, a novel Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) framework that leverages long-term memory to enh...
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Using Graph Databases to Implement GraphRAG

Stephen CollinsSep 7, 2024
This edition explores how to leverage graph databases like Neo4j to implement GraphRAG for query-focused summarization tasks....
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Comparing Multimodal LLM Models - Which One Fits Your Use Case?

Stephen CollinsAug 31, 2024
In this edition, I'm diving into the world of multimodal LLMs, comparing leading models like CLIP, DALL-E 3, VILT, and Gemini...
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The Future of Vector Databases - What's Next After Milvus, Chroma, and Pinecone?

Stephen CollinsAug 24, 2024
In this edition, I'm exploring the next wave of innovation in vector databases, beyond the current leaders like Milvus, Chrom...
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The Rise of Multimodal LLMs - What You Need to Know

Stephen CollinsAug 17, 2024
In this edition, I'm diving into the evolution and significance of multimodal large language models (LLMs). These models are ...
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Why Less is More in Software Architecture

Stephen CollinsAug 10, 2024
In this edition, I'm exploring the critical importance of simplicity in software architecture. Simpler designs are not just e...
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Introducing Retrieval-Augmented Language Models (RALMs)

Stephen CollinsAug 3, 2024
In this newsletter, we explore the innovative concept of Retrieval-Augmented Language Models (RALMs). These models integrate ...
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Breaking Boundaries with Mistral Large 2

Stephen CollinsJul 27, 2024
The release of Mistral Large 2 by Mistral AI marks a significant advancement in AI capabilities, promising enhanced performan...
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Introducing GPT-4o Mini - The Race to Cost-Efficient AI

Stephen CollinsJul 20, 2024
As AI models become increasingly powerful, there's a notable trend towards making these advanced technologies more affordable...
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Developing an AI-Driven SaaS Roadmap for Startups

Stephen CollinsJul 13, 2024
In today's competitive market, startups must leverage foundational AI models to create value and stay ahead. This newsletter ...
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Designing Event-Driven Systems for LLMs

Stephen CollinsJul 6, 2024
Managing the asynchronous nature of large language models (LLMs) is crucial for efficient AI systems. This newsletter explore...
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Fine-Tuning Your AI - The Role of Performance Monitoring in Voting Systems

Stephen CollinsJun 29, 2024
Enhancing the reliability and accuracy of AI applications requires more than just integrating multiple models. This newslette...
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The Coming AI Boom - How You Can Benefit from the Explosion of AI Adoption

Stephen CollinsJun 22, 2024
We are on the verge of a massive shift in the economy driven by the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). This news...
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LLMs Perform Better When You Ask Them to Do Less

Stephen CollinsJun 15, 2024
Discover the secret to enhancing the performance of Large Language Models (LLMs) by keeping requests simple and focused. This...
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Enhancing AI System Reliability with Voting Mechanisms

Stephen CollinsJun 8, 2024
Learn how implementing voting systems can significantly enhance the reliability of AI systems. This newsletter discusses the ...
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xLSTM - The Next Leap in AI Model Architecture

Stephen CollinsJun 1, 2024
Discover the exciting advancements in machine learning with the introduction of the xLSTM model. This newsletter explores how...
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The AI Displacement Dilemma - What Lies Ahead

Stephen CollinsMay 25, 2024
Dive into the profound implications of AI on the job market, as highlighted in the thought-provoking video 'About 50% Of Jobs...
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Improving Summarization Tasks with GraphRAG and RaptorRAG

Stephen CollinsMay 18, 2024
Explore and compare GraphRAG and RaptorRAG, two innovative approaches for improving query-focused summarization, enhancing ou...
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Introducing GraphRAG - Transforming Data Analysis with LLMs

Stephen CollinsMay 11, 2024
Explore GraphRAG, a transformative technology developed by Microsoft Research to enhance LLM capabilities for sophisticated d...
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The Artistic Dimensions of Software Architecture

Stephen CollinsMay 4, 2024
In this issue, I explain why software architecture should be viewed as an art just as much as a science. Discover how blendin...
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Boosting Contextual Relevance in LLMs with LlamaIndex

Stephen CollinsApr 27, 2024
In this issue, I explore LlamaIndex, a framework that dramatically improves the integration of specific, private data into la...
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Unleashing the Potential of Hugging Face's AutoModel in AI Development

Stephen CollinsApr 20, 2024
In this issue, I discuss the convenient yet powerful capabilities of Hugging Face's AutoModel class, one of several "AutoClas...
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Milvus vs Pinecone: A Comparison of Vector Databases

Stephen CollinsApr 13, 2024
This issue explores the specialized world of vector databases, focusing on a comparative analysis between Pinecone and Milvus...
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Embracing the Role of AI Overseers in Modern Engineering

Stephen CollinsApr 12, 2024
This edition considers the emergent role of 'AI Overseers', pivotal in harnessing AI for superior engineering achievements. I...
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The Unyielding Developer - Persistence, Learning, and Communication

Stephen CollinsMar 30, 2024
In this issue, I explore the pivotal role of stubbornness, the insatiable appetite for learning, and the paramount importance...
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Managing the AI Hype Cycle

Stephen CollinsMar 23, 2024
Navigate the swirling hype surrounding artificial intelligence breakthroughs. This issue examines the financial incentives dr...
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Exploring Multi-Modal LLMs - Beyond Text

Stephen CollinsMar 14, 2024
Dive into the intricate workings of Multi-Modal Large Language Models, the advanced AI systems capable of understanding and g...
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Decoding LLMs - The Enterprise Need for Mechanistic Interpretability

Stephen CollinsMar 8, 2024
Explore the pivotal role of mechanistic interpretability in merging large language models with enterprise software, advancing...
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Improving Content Discovery - A Look at Semantify's Approach

Stephen CollinsMar 2, 2024
Dive into the transformative approach of using vector embeddings in recommender systems, spotlighting Semantify's innovative ...
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Exploring Evolutionary Architecture in Software Development

Stephen CollinsFeb 24, 2024
In this issue, I discuss Evolutionary Architecture, a methodology to help with designing software applications. Explore how E...
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Mastering Software Testing in LLM Development with Promptfoo

Stephen CollinsFeb 17, 2024
This issue introduces concepts in systematic software testing for LLM development with Promptfoo, a CLI tool designed for pre...
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Cursor - Revolutionizing Code Editing with AI

Stephen CollinsFeb 10, 2024
This issue introduces Cursor, an innovative AI-powered code editor built on the foundation of Visual Studio Code. It enhances...
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Database Security Showdown - SQLite vs. PostgreSQL

Stephen CollinsFeb 3, 2024
This issue covers security features of SQLite and PostgreSQL, providing a comparative analysis to help database administrator...
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AI's Political Play - Understanding and Countering Misinformation

Stephen CollinsJan 27, 2024
In this newsletter, I consider the intricate role of AI in political interference. I share my personal journey and insights i...
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Exploring the Basics of Multi-Agent LLM Frameworks

Stephen CollinsJan 20, 2024
In this issue, I explore the fascinating world of Multi-Agent Large Language Model (LLM) Frameworks, an advanced area in AI t...
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The Importance of a Financial Safety Net in Tech

Stephen CollinsJan 13, 2024
Amidst recent layoff news in the tech industry, this issue deviates slightly from AI topics to discuss the importance of buil...
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Vector Databases Showdown: Milvus vs Chroma

Stephen CollinsJan 6, 2024
This issue dives into the dynamic world of vector databases, presenting a detailed comparison between Milvus and Chroma, two ...
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Navigating the AI-Assisted Coding Landscape with GitHub Copilot

Stephen CollinsDec 30, 2023
Exploring the world of AI-assisted coding, this issue brings a firsthand review of GitHub Copilot, highlighting its strengths...
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Mixtral 8x7B vs. ChatGPT - A Detailed Comparison

Stephen CollinsDec 16, 2023
This issue explores an in-depth comparison between Mixtral 8x7B and ChatGPT, focusing on their operational costs, instruction...
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