What are computers going to be like in the future? Have you thought about this? Computers of the future might supersede human intellect. Some believe that computers might even acquire the abilities of replacing human brains. Some researchers have proposed that computers of the future will have an inbuilt artificial intelligence. They may be able to implement robotics.Computer networking is sure to result in the death of distance and world will become a very small place to live.
Looking at the history and timeline of computers, we realize that computers have evolved from simple electronic calculators. Great mathematicians and logicians of the olden times have brought brilliant advances to computing. They have given computers the potential of having a bright future.
What does the future hold for computer technology? The future generations might experience interactions with robots. Robots may replace servants. They may be employed for laborious, repetitive as well as life-risking tasks. Computer researchers also picture the advent of a fully developed artificial intelligence in the world of computing. To know all about it, go through thepros and cons of artificial intelligence. Robotics and AI may make it possible for all daily tasks at the household and workplace to be performed without human intervention.
Nanotechnology is one of the very popular fields that is being looked forward to. Researchers look at nanotechnology as one of the promising fields to merge with computing technology in future.
Looking at the different possibilities of what computers will be like in the forthcoming years, we know one thing is for sure; that computers are bound to have a great future.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Spy Cell Phones
Imagine a cell phone secretly watching your behavior. Think of your mobile phone eyeing your actions and recording them in its memory. Sounds impossible? I am afraid, it isn’t. In fact, cell phones can be used to track user behavior and record conversations and text messages that are exchanged through them.
A spy phone is a mobile phone or a spy device that allows a user to monitor and hear or record conversations and other activities taking place over the phone. Spy phones can function in different ways. They can be used as listening devices whereby secretive conversations can be tracked. They are popularly used by secret agencies to track criminal activities that are carried out over cellular networks. They can be used for tracking periodic calls and recording the frequency of calls from certain suspicious numbers. Spy phones can be used for monitoring business and household activities while the cell phone user is away.
Previously, simple wiretapping techniques were used to spy telephonic conversations. Secret agencies and security authorities commonly used phonetapping as a tool to track the suspects’ behavior. It would enable the security officials to listen to the telephonic conversations taking place over phones they tapped. However, with the advancements in technology, spying became easier.
Today, installable software can be used to record cell phone calls and messages. Also, there are cell phone spying systems, wherein a spy is automatically alerted when the cell phone user dials a certain number. There are certain software applications, which can be loaded onto the cell phones and be used for maintaining call logs, recording text messages and monitoring Internet activity over the mobile phone. Some of these applications also let a user call the target cell phone number from a preset number and track the target user’s activities. ‘Phone Dead’ is a relatively recent technology that enables a cell phone to be used as a spy phone even when switched off. In this case, the spy cell phone is configured to function in a ghost mode, whereby it silently answers the calls it receives.
With the implementation of modern spying techniques, cell phones can be converted into call and text message interceptors or GSM trackers, thus making them function as spy cell phones. Besides tracking messages and conversations, spy cell phones can also alert third-party users of the target phone’s outgoing calls. Spy phones can also be used to track the target user’s location by means of GPS technologies. They can be programmed to record audio or video for a predetermined period of time.
Spy cell phones give rise to legal as well as ethical concerns. Their positive side is that they can be used by parents to monitor the behavior of their children. Also, they can be used by business officials to track workplace activity. The most important application of spy cell phones is in tracking criminal activities. But there is another side to this and it is not positive. Yes, spy cell phone software is easily available. Cell phones are easily convertible to spy phones. Their ready availability makes them subject to illegitimate use. Malicious cell phone users can gain an unauthorized access to other users’ mobile phones and dampen the overall security of cellular networks.
Perhaps, it is ironical that the technology that helps you stay connected to the world can also provide any individual with an unwarranted access to your life. It is probably contrary to the concept of connectivity.
A spy phone is a mobile phone or a spy device that allows a user to monitor and hear or record conversations and other activities taking place over the phone. Spy phones can function in different ways. They can be used as listening devices whereby secretive conversations can be tracked. They are popularly used by secret agencies to track criminal activities that are carried out over cellular networks. They can be used for tracking periodic calls and recording the frequency of calls from certain suspicious numbers. Spy phones can be used for monitoring business and household activities while the cell phone user is away.
Previously, simple wiretapping techniques were used to spy telephonic conversations. Secret agencies and security authorities commonly used phonetapping as a tool to track the suspects’ behavior. It would enable the security officials to listen to the telephonic conversations taking place over phones they tapped. However, with the advancements in technology, spying became easier.
Today, installable software can be used to record cell phone calls and messages. Also, there are cell phone spying systems, wherein a spy is automatically alerted when the cell phone user dials a certain number. There are certain software applications, which can be loaded onto the cell phones and be used for maintaining call logs, recording text messages and monitoring Internet activity over the mobile phone. Some of these applications also let a user call the target cell phone number from a preset number and track the target user’s activities. ‘Phone Dead’ is a relatively recent technology that enables a cell phone to be used as a spy phone even when switched off. In this case, the spy cell phone is configured to function in a ghost mode, whereby it silently answers the calls it receives.
With the implementation of modern spying techniques, cell phones can be converted into call and text message interceptors or GSM trackers, thus making them function as spy cell phones. Besides tracking messages and conversations, spy cell phones can also alert third-party users of the target phone’s outgoing calls. Spy phones can also be used to track the target user’s location by means of GPS technologies. They can be programmed to record audio or video for a predetermined period of time.
Spy cell phones give rise to legal as well as ethical concerns. Their positive side is that they can be used by parents to monitor the behavior of their children. Also, they can be used by business officials to track workplace activity. The most important application of spy cell phones is in tracking criminal activities. But there is another side to this and it is not positive. Yes, spy cell phone software is easily available. Cell phones are easily convertible to spy phones. Their ready availability makes them subject to illegitimate use. Malicious cell phone users can gain an unauthorized access to other users’ mobile phones and dampen the overall security of cellular networks.
Perhaps, it is ironical that the technology that helps you stay connected to the world can also provide any individual with an unwarranted access to your life. It is probably contrary to the concept of connectivity.
Buying Guide: Plasma TV vs LCD TV - Reviews and Comparison
In order to compare plasma TV with LCD, you need to understand the differences in their technologies. It is important to analyze your usage requirements before you make the buy. Following is a television-buying guide, which will help you come to a decision about whether to go for a plasma TV or get home an LCD. Here is an overview of both the technologies followed by their comparative study.
Plasma TV: It is a flat panel display, which is commonly used for large television screens. Plasma displays are bright and have a low-luminance level in relation to an LCD screen. Its power consumption depends largely on the picture content whereby brighter pictures draw more power than the darker ones.
How does a plasma TV work? A plasma television display consists of two plates of glass that hold thousands of small cells containing xenon and neon gases. Long electrodes are placed between the glass plates on both sides of the cells. The control circuits of a plasma television charge the electrodes to generate a potential difference. The voltage difference results in the ionization of gases, forming plasma. The collision of the gas ions while they move towards the electrodes, results in the emission of photons. Each pixel of a plasma display is made of three subpixel cells of red, blue and green colored phosphors. The intensity of each of the subpixel colors can be increased or decreased by varying the current flowing through them, thus creating different combinations of red, green and blue. This is why, plasma TV can produce most of the visible colors and give an enriched user experience.
LCD TV: An LCD display consists of an array of liquid crystals that are placed between two glass plates with a source of light at the back. The electric charge applied to the crystals, results in the production of images.
An LCD display consists of a flat panel that is made up of pixels filled with liquid crystals. Each pixel of an LCD display consists of a layer of molecules placed between two transparent electrodes and two polarizing filters. Before the application of electric field, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in a particular direction. A variation in the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer in each pixel, results in the production of different levels of gray. In color LCD displays, each pixel is divided into three subpixels of colors red, green and blue and the color elements are generated by subtracting colors from white light. As against the different-colored phosphors used in a plasma display, the cells in an LCD TV are colored by means of pigment filters, metal oxide filters and dye filters.
Plasma TV vs. LCD TV
Plasma TV provides a larger screen availability as compared to LCDs. Plasma displays can render a better contrast ratio and enhanced color accuracy. Plasma television can render deeper blacks. Plasma TVs support a wide range of colors and can produce large-sized pictures. LCDs produce brighter pictures. However, greens can sometimes appear over-green and reds might appear warmer. While plasma TV outweighs LCD in brightness and contrast, LCDs are better off in terms of picture resolution.
In plasma TVs, light is not spread across the screen from a central source. Rather, each pixel of a plasma display produces its own light and hence, is readily visible with its brightness consistent with the other pixels on the screen. Plasma screens offer wider viewing angles.
At times, the pixels of LCD displays lack the ability to give quick responses to the changes in color in case of moving images. In such cases, pictures appear to smudge. Plasma displays better motion tracking capabilities resulting in little or no motion lag in moving images. Plasma TV has a good refresh capacity due to which it can handle rapid movements of pictures.
One of the major disadvantages of plasma TV is that it suffers from screen burn-in. With the phosphor-based electronic displays, a prolonged display can result in the formation of ghost-like images. It is caused by the loss of luminosity of the phosphor compounds. Screen burn-ins result in a decline in the picture quality. LCD TVs are not susceptible to burn-ins. However, there are chances that individual pixels of an LCD television burn out, resulting in the appearance of small black or white dots on the screen.
Moreover, LCD TVs consume less power in comparison to plasma TVs. The estimated power saving is of about 25%.
The price difference between plasma TV and LCDs cannot be ignored. LCDs are affordable in small screen sizes while plasma screens are affordable in larger screen sizes, above 42".
Now that you have understood the pros and cons of both plasma and LCD technologies, you should be able to decide which one suits your needs. While plasma TV ranks higher in terms of picture quality and overall user experience, LCDs are better options for cost-cutting and power-saving. Whichever option you decide to go for, remember to approach renowned television companies and purchase only from authorized dealers. Market research will help you analyze the cost-effectiveness of each of the technologies, weigh them against your requirements and affordability and find the best TV in the market. You need to find a trade off.
Plasma TV: It is a flat panel display, which is commonly used for large television screens. Plasma displays are bright and have a low-luminance level in relation to an LCD screen. Its power consumption depends largely on the picture content whereby brighter pictures draw more power than the darker ones.
How does a plasma TV work? A plasma television display consists of two plates of glass that hold thousands of small cells containing xenon and neon gases. Long electrodes are placed between the glass plates on both sides of the cells. The control circuits of a plasma television charge the electrodes to generate a potential difference. The voltage difference results in the ionization of gases, forming plasma. The collision of the gas ions while they move towards the electrodes, results in the emission of photons. Each pixel of a plasma display is made of three subpixel cells of red, blue and green colored phosphors. The intensity of each of the subpixel colors can be increased or decreased by varying the current flowing through them, thus creating different combinations of red, green and blue. This is why, plasma TV can produce most of the visible colors and give an enriched user experience.
LCD TV: An LCD display consists of an array of liquid crystals that are placed between two glass plates with a source of light at the back. The electric charge applied to the crystals, results in the production of images.
An LCD display consists of a flat panel that is made up of pixels filled with liquid crystals. Each pixel of an LCD display consists of a layer of molecules placed between two transparent electrodes and two polarizing filters. Before the application of electric field, the liquid crystal molecules are aligned in a particular direction. A variation in the voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer in each pixel, results in the production of different levels of gray. In color LCD displays, each pixel is divided into three subpixels of colors red, green and blue and the color elements are generated by subtracting colors from white light. As against the different-colored phosphors used in a plasma display, the cells in an LCD TV are colored by means of pigment filters, metal oxide filters and dye filters.
Plasma TV vs. LCD TV
Plasma TV provides a larger screen availability as compared to LCDs. Plasma displays can render a better contrast ratio and enhanced color accuracy. Plasma television can render deeper blacks. Plasma TVs support a wide range of colors and can produce large-sized pictures. LCDs produce brighter pictures. However, greens can sometimes appear over-green and reds might appear warmer. While plasma TV outweighs LCD in brightness and contrast, LCDs are better off in terms of picture resolution.
In plasma TVs, light is not spread across the screen from a central source. Rather, each pixel of a plasma display produces its own light and hence, is readily visible with its brightness consistent with the other pixels on the screen. Plasma screens offer wider viewing angles.
At times, the pixels of LCD displays lack the ability to give quick responses to the changes in color in case of moving images. In such cases, pictures appear to smudge. Plasma displays better motion tracking capabilities resulting in little or no motion lag in moving images. Plasma TV has a good refresh capacity due to which it can handle rapid movements of pictures.
One of the major disadvantages of plasma TV is that it suffers from screen burn-in. With the phosphor-based electronic displays, a prolonged display can result in the formation of ghost-like images. It is caused by the loss of luminosity of the phosphor compounds. Screen burn-ins result in a decline in the picture quality. LCD TVs are not susceptible to burn-ins. However, there are chances that individual pixels of an LCD television burn out, resulting in the appearance of small black or white dots on the screen.
Moreover, LCD TVs consume less power in comparison to plasma TVs. The estimated power saving is of about 25%.
The price difference between plasma TV and LCDs cannot be ignored. LCDs are affordable in small screen sizes while plasma screens are affordable in larger screen sizes, above 42".
Now that you have understood the pros and cons of both plasma and LCD technologies, you should be able to decide which one suits your needs. While plasma TV ranks higher in terms of picture quality and overall user experience, LCDs are better options for cost-cutting and power-saving. Whichever option you decide to go for, remember to approach renowned television companies and purchase only from authorized dealers. Market research will help you analyze the cost-effectiveness of each of the technologies, weigh them against your requirements and affordability and find the best TV in the market. You need to find a trade off.
Geothermal Energy - An Informative Introduction to Clean Energy
I'm sure you've herd of terms like alternative energy, or think green. The fact is that its never been a better time to start thinking of better ways to use, and conserve our natural resources. Even if you don't care much about conserving our resources. You can count on the fact that you can save money through some types of alternative energy. This will spark most peoples interest. 
Geothermal energy is one way you can cute out on that ever rising power bill. If you've never heard the word geothermal before then that's ok. Its a new process in which contractors drill down deep into the earth to use thermal energy as a power source. Geothermal energy is a thermal based energy that is stored deep inside of the earth. The different types of thermal resources available give us different types of engineering and drilling challenges. Unlike fossil fuels there is almost unlimited amounts of clean energy available in the earths crust. There are several types of geothermal energy. They include:
The highest output of conventional geothermal energy is found along the path of tectonic plates where you see volcanoes and earthquakes the most. This is why California has 33 power plants using geo thermal, as California has the largest fault line in the USA. You can have a geothermal heat pump anywhere in the world but the ones along the fault lines are the most common. This type is called geothermal reservoirs. These natural reservoirs are filled with water. When the magma from the earths mantle comes up due to the rising of tectonic plats it heats the water in the geothermal reservoirs making them perfect for farming the pure clean energy. A good example of a geothermal well is old faithful in yellow stone national park. However this is protected by law as not to disturb this natural wonder.
I know what your thinking now. How long does the water in the reservoirs last? Well the power plants that use this type of energy have a special process in which they inject the used steam and water back into the reservoir. This type of power plant is still very new, but in theory the water should last as long as the power plant.
All these types of new power plants are 99% clean. The natural sulfur that does come up with the water is filtered out so this process is as good for the environment as possible.
How can you get geothermal heating and air conditioning?
There are plenty of contractors that provide a full installation service. There is even a two thousand dolor tax credit for people and businesses that install geothermal heating and cooling. The majority of the cost will be for the drilling, and the other gear you will need for the geothermal heat pump.
The earth absorbs about forty sever percent of all the sun light that hits the ground. That's what makes the ground below ten feet stay a constant temperature. The holes are often drilled in a vertical series of loops about one hundred to two hundred feet down.
If you live close to water they will place the pips around 50 feet down and horizontally. If you live right at a body of water you can put your pips in the water and anchored to the bottom. This causes a friction as the fluid passes in a series of loops threw the water. which will heat in the winter, and cool in the summer. You can also do this with a well if you have one. If you live in a geo active aria you can also tap into enough hot water to not have to really on a water heater. Saving you even more money.
Geothermal energy is one way you can cute out on that ever rising power bill. If you've never heard the word geothermal before then that's ok. Its a new process in which contractors drill down deep into the earth to use thermal energy as a power source. Geothermal energy is a thermal based energy that is stored deep inside of the earth. The different types of thermal resources available give us different types of engineering and drilling challenges. Unlike fossil fuels there is almost unlimited amounts of clean energy available in the earths crust. There are several types of geothermal energy. They include:
- Conventional Geothermal sources
- The Binary cycle power plants - Which draws up hot water from deep within the earth and then applies a second liquid that has a much lower boiling point then water that then vaporizes instantly. The steam that it shots out rotates large power turbines.
- Hot and dry rock geothermal power - This type is much more simple. It uses a well that is drilled so deep that it hits hot bedrock. You then pore fluid down the well to produce steam. Which can then be converted into power.
- A geothermal heat pump - This type of system is used mainly to heat and cool houses and buildings. If you dig ten to fifteen feet down you will find that it maintains a constant sixty degrees Fahrenheit all year around. The point is to draw up that air into your home or office to maintain that ideal temperature for the whole year, or you can pump a fluid threw a series of pips and run it through a air pump reducing or eliminating the need for electric heat and air.
- Pumping out the hot geothermal water - This is self explanatory. You pump out the hot water from within the earths crust for use in home or for commercial applications. This type is not available in all places of the earth unless you can dig extremely deep.
- California - There are 33 geo power plants in this state and it makes up over 90% of our nations power.
- Nevada - There are 14 in this state.
- Hawaii - Has only one.
- Utah - Has only one.
The highest output of conventional geothermal energy is found along the path of tectonic plates where you see volcanoes and earthquakes the most. This is why California has 33 power plants using geo thermal, as California has the largest fault line in the USA. You can have a geothermal heat pump anywhere in the world but the ones along the fault lines are the most common. This type is called geothermal reservoirs. These natural reservoirs are filled with water. When the magma from the earths mantle comes up due to the rising of tectonic plats it heats the water in the geothermal reservoirs making them perfect for farming the pure clean energy. A good example of a geothermal well is old faithful in yellow stone national park. However this is protected by law as not to disturb this natural wonder.
I know what your thinking now. How long does the water in the reservoirs last? Well the power plants that use this type of energy have a special process in which they inject the used steam and water back into the reservoir. This type of power plant is still very new, but in theory the water should last as long as the power plant.
All these types of new power plants are 99% clean. The natural sulfur that does come up with the water is filtered out so this process is as good for the environment as possible.
How can you get geothermal heating and air conditioning?
There are plenty of contractors that provide a full installation service. There is even a two thousand dolor tax credit for people and businesses that install geothermal heating and cooling. The majority of the cost will be for the drilling, and the other gear you will need for the geothermal heat pump.
The earth absorbs about forty sever percent of all the sun light that hits the ground. That's what makes the ground below ten feet stay a constant temperature. The holes are often drilled in a vertical series of loops about one hundred to two hundred feet down.
If you live close to water they will place the pips around 50 feet down and horizontally. If you live right at a body of water you can put your pips in the water and anchored to the bottom. This causes a friction as the fluid passes in a series of loops threw the water. which will heat in the winter, and cool in the summer. You can also do this with a well if you have one. If you live in a geo active aria you can also tap into enough hot water to not have to really on a water heater. Saving you even more money.
Advantages of Information Technology
Information Technology:
Information Technology or IT mainly deals with computer applications. The common work environment today is totally dependent on computers. This has led to the need to develop and consistently upgrade dedicated computer software like project management software, for a number of related requirements. These include storage and protection of content, processing and transmitting of dedicated information and the secured retrieval of information, when and as required. IT promotes computing technology, covering everything from installing applications to developing databases.
Why is Information Technology Important:
All our work related applications are now completely automated, thanks to the IT sector. IT professionals are people involved in essential management of sensitive data, exclusive computer networking and systems-engineering. The advancement of the IT sector has resulted in automated:
The advantages of information technology are many. True globalization has come about only via this automated system. The creation of one interdependent system helps us to share information and end linguistic barriers across the continents. The collapse of geographic boundaries has made the world a 'global village'. The technology has not only made communication cheaper, but also possible much quicker and 24x7. The wonders of text messages, email and auto-response, backed by computer security applications, have opened up scope for direct communication.
Computerized, internet business processes have made many businesses turn to the Internet for increased productivity, greater profitability, clutter free working conditions and global clientèle. It is mainly due to the IT industry that people from diverse cultures are able to personally communicate and exchange valuable ideas. This has greatly reduced prejudice and increased sensitivity. Businesses are able to operate 24x7, even from remote locations.
Information technology has rippled on in the form of a Communication Revolution. Specialists in this field like programmers, analyzers and developers are able to further the applications and improve business processes simultaneously. The management infrastructure thus generated defies all boundaries. Among the many advantages of the industry are technical support post-implementation, network and individual desktop management, dedicated business applications and strategic planning for enhanced profitability and effective project management.
IT provides a number of low-cost business options to tap higher productivity with dedicated small business CRM and a special category for the larger operations. Regular upgrades have enabled many businessmen to increase productivity and identify a market niche that would never have been possible without the connectivity. With every subsequent increase in the ROI orReturn On Investment, businesses are able to remain buoyant even amidst the economic recession. Not only do people connect faster with the help of information technology, but they are also able to identify like-minded individuals and extend help, while strengthening ties.
This segment revolves around automated processes that require little or no human intervention at all. This in turn has minimized job stress levels at the work place and eliminated repetition of tasks, loss due to human error, risks involved due to negligence of timely upgrades and extensive paper-intensive business applications that result in the accumulation of unnecessary bulk. The sophistication of the modern work stations and general working conditions is possible only due to the development of Information Technology.
Information Technology or IT mainly deals with computer applications. The common work environment today is totally dependent on computers. This has led to the need to develop and consistently upgrade dedicated computer software like project management software, for a number of related requirements. These include storage and protection of content, processing and transmitting of dedicated information and the secured retrieval of information, when and as required. IT promotes computing technology, covering everything from installing applications to developing databases.
Why is Information Technology Important:
All our work related applications are now completely automated, thanks to the IT sector. IT professionals are people involved in essential management of sensitive data, exclusive computer networking and systems-engineering. The advancement of the IT sector has resulted in automated:
- Administration of entire systems.
- Production and manipulation of sensitive information.
- Cultural development and communication.
- Streamlining of business processes and timely upgradation.
The advantages of information technology are many. True globalization has come about only via this automated system. The creation of one interdependent system helps us to share information and end linguistic barriers across the continents. The collapse of geographic boundaries has made the world a 'global village'. The technology has not only made communication cheaper, but also possible much quicker and 24x7. The wonders of text messages, email and auto-response, backed by computer security applications, have opened up scope for direct communication.
Computerized, internet business processes have made many businesses turn to the Internet for increased productivity, greater profitability, clutter free working conditions and global clientèle. It is mainly due to the IT industry that people from diverse cultures are able to personally communicate and exchange valuable ideas. This has greatly reduced prejudice and increased sensitivity. Businesses are able to operate 24x7, even from remote locations.
Information technology has rippled on in the form of a Communication Revolution. Specialists in this field like programmers, analyzers and developers are able to further the applications and improve business processes simultaneously. The management infrastructure thus generated defies all boundaries. Among the many advantages of the industry are technical support post-implementation, network and individual desktop management, dedicated business applications and strategic planning for enhanced profitability and effective project management.
IT provides a number of low-cost business options to tap higher productivity with dedicated small business CRM and a special category for the larger operations. Regular upgrades have enabled many businessmen to increase productivity and identify a market niche that would never have been possible without the connectivity. With every subsequent increase in the ROI orReturn On Investment, businesses are able to remain buoyant even amidst the economic recession. Not only do people connect faster with the help of information technology, but they are also able to identify like-minded individuals and extend help, while strengthening ties.
This segment revolves around automated processes that require little or no human intervention at all. This in turn has minimized job stress levels at the work place and eliminated repetition of tasks, loss due to human error, risks involved due to negligence of timely upgrades and extensive paper-intensive business applications that result in the accumulation of unnecessary bulk. The sophistication of the modern work stations and general working conditions is possible only due to the development of Information Technology.
Existence of Life on Mars
Mars, as most of us know, is the fourth planet from the Sun. It derives its name from Mars, the Roman God of war. Being reddish in color,it is also known as the 'Red Planet'. The geographical features of this planet, as also its rotational speed and seasonal cycles, are similar to those on Earth. Among all the planets of the solar system, Mars has the highest probability to harbor water. Research has, to some extent, revealed the presence of water ice at the poles and mid-latitudes of Mars.
Owing to its similarities with the geographical and geological features of the planet Earth, scientists have always speculated about the existence of life on Mars. One of the striking similarity between the features of these planets, is that, the length of a day on Mars is same as that on Earth. Also, owing to the similarity between the axial tilts of Earth and Mars, both the planets experience the same seasons. William Whewell from Trinity College, Cambridge proposed that Mars had seas, land and perhaps harbored life. Telescopic observations of the supposed Martian channels, in the 19th century strengthened the belief that life could prevail on Mars. However, the observations were later found to be mere optical illusions. Later, in 1894, William Campbell, an astronomer from the US proved that neither water nor oxygen were present in the atmosphere of Mars. By 1909 it was proved that the presence of canals on Mars was only a myth.
Later, in 1964, the spacecraft Mariner 4 performed a flyby on planet Mars and managed to capture images of the Martian surface. The photographs taken by Mariner 4 revealed the presence of craters on Mars as also the absence of a global magnetic field around the planet. The craters brought out the fact that the Martian surface lacked plate tectonics and weathering. The absence of any global magnetic field made it apparent that Mars had no protection against the harmful cosmic rays. Moreover, the value of the atmospheric pressure on Mars, which was 0.6 kPa, as calculated by Mariner 4, proved that liquid water could not exist on the Martian surface. However, the search for existence of life on Mars did not end here. It rather transformed into a search for bacteria-like living organisms.
Another noteworthy mission aimed at the exploration of Mars was the Viking program by NASA that consisted of two probes, Viking 1 and Viking 2 and was regarded as the most expensive and ambitious endeavors towards the discovery of life on Mars. Each of the space probes were equipped with an orbiter that was meant to photograph the Martian surface, and a lander designed to study the surface of the planet. The mission did not detect the presence of any kind of organic molecules.
Meteorites that have reached the Earth's surface have given evidences of the presence of single-celled life on Mars. Some of them have led scientists to speculate the presence of methane, formaldehyde and silica in trace amounts. Some of NASA's recent experiments have concluded that hematite is found on Mars. Since hematite is a mineral that forms only in presence of water, researchers have suspected the presence of liquid water on Mars.
Despite several facts and speculations about the existence of life on Mars, there is no conclusive evidence that supports the proposition that Mars harbors life. Perhaps, the Martians, if at all they exist, will have to come on Earth to prove their existence. How I wish, they invite me to their planet, a tour of my dreams!
Engine Troubleshooting - Diagnosing Car Engine Problems
There are many people who use cars to commute daily and it is surely very irritating if the car has some engine problem and breaks down before reaching your destination. If the car breaks down, diagnosing a car engine problem can be an easy task for the owner of the car, if he has some basic knowledge of engine problems and car troubleshooting. 
Engine Start-up Problem
If the engine overheats after driving for sometime or a mile, then there may be a possibility of some smoke or steam coming out from the hood.
When you start the engine and accelerate, you hear a continuous noise like fire crackers from the silencer of your vehicle, that's how the engine backfires which can be harmful to the engine.
When you accelerate, the power that the car is supposed to have, is not being generated. The car can even stall when the gas pedal is pressed for acceleration.
Engine Start-up Problem
- Ensure that you have enough gas in your car.
- When you try to start the car, check if there is a cranky noise. If there is no such noise then you need to check the battery and insure that there is no wiring problem. Before removing the battery terminals, observe the positive and negative terminals of the battery and then try to tighten them; or unplug, clean and join the terminals again. A low battery can be judged by dim lights, low horn, slow or no movement of windscreen wipers, etc. and needs to be recharged.
- If the battery is fine, you need to check the starter as it may have to be repaired or replaced.
- If the engine starts but stops; in the case of cars having carb engines, you need to check the choke. Start the engine, press the accelerator lightly, and rev up the engine till it is heated. But if you own a fuel-injected car, there can be many issues such as vacuum hose leak, air valve or the fuel pressure regulator.
If the engine overheats after driving for sometime or a mile, then there may be a possibility of some smoke or steam coming out from the hood.
- Check and adjust the ignition timing as it can be wrongly set.
- Check if there are any mechanical problems in the engine; such as compression, and insure proper working of thermostat that regulates the temperature.
- The level of the engine coolant can be low, and if it is, it should be refilled to a proper level. Examine if there's a leak in the cooling system and repair it as soon as possible.
- The cylinder head gasket needs to be replaced as it may have conked out.
- The drive belts of the engine may be slipping or broken, tighten them or replace them if needed.
When you start the engine and accelerate, you hear a continuous noise like fire crackers from the silencer of your vehicle, that's how the engine backfires which can be harmful to the engine.
- You need to check for a broken or a burnt valve. A broken camshaft also can be a problem and should be repaired to avoid serious engine issues.
- The ignition timing may need to be adjusted.
- The timing chain or belt of the camshaft may have been slipped, and needs to be replaced at the earliest.
- The wiring of the spark plug may not be proper. Adjust the wiring in a proper way and check the firing noise.
When you accelerate, the power that the car is supposed to have, is not being generated. The car can even stall when the gas pedal is pressed for acceleration.
- Replace the air filter as it may be dirty or the fuel filter as it may be choked.
- There may be water in the gasoline. Empty the gas tank and fill it with clean gas.
- Check if your catalytic converter is choked. If it is, it has to be replaced.
WiTricity - Wireless Electricity
Our forefathers marveled at the invention of glowing light bulbs by Thomas Edison in 1879. However, to us 21st centurions, thelight bulb is nothing out of the ordinary. When computers, cellphones, laptops, iPods, etc. were invented our antennas tweaked. Now this is what you call invention! However, as time's progressing we are getting used to these devices. In fact, charging all these appliances has become so very cumbersome.
Each appliance has its own set of chargers, and with every family member owning their cellphones, the drawers are overflowing with all sorts of wires. How many times have you wished if there could be some way to do away with all the wiry clutter? When you are on the way to work and your cellphone beeps in hunger for a battery charge, haven't you wished for your cellphone battery to get 'self charged'. Well your plight has been heard by doctor 'WiTricity'.
What is WiTricity?
WiTricity is nothing but wireless electricity. Transmission of electrical energy from one object to another without the use of wires is called as WiTricity. WiTricity will ensure that the cellphones, laptops, iPods and other power hungry devices get charged on their own, eliminating the need of plugging them in. Even better, because of WiTricity some of the devices won't require batteries to operate.
What's the Principle behind WiTricity?
WiTricity - Wireless Electricity, these words are simpler said than done. The concept behind this fascinating term is a little complex. However, if you want to understand it, try and picture what I state in the next few lines. Consider two self resonating copper coils of same resonating frequency with a diameter 20 inches each. One copper wire is connected to the power source (WiTricity transmitter), while the other copper wire is connected to the device (WiTricity Receiver).
The electric power from the power source causes the copper coil connected to it to start oscillating at a particular (MHz) frequency. Subsequently, the space around the copper coil gets filled with non-magnetic radiations. This generated magnetic field further transfers the power to the other copper coil connected to the receiver. Since this coil is also of the same frequency, it starts oscillating at the same frequency as the first coil. This is known as 'coupled resonance' and is the principle behind WiTricity.
The Brain behind WiTricity?
Prof. Marin Soljacic from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is the one who has proved that magnetic coupled resonance can be utilized in order to transfer energy without wires. What's even more interesting is how he came about this idea. Soljacic, just like any of us was fed up of his 'low battery' beeping cellphone and wondered just like any of us if there was a way to get rid of this 'charging problem'. However, here is where the difference between Soljacic and any of us comes in. He didn't just stand there wondering, instead he tried to figure out if there existed any physical phenomenon which could be of some help. He remembered Michael Faraday's discovery of electromagnetic induction (1831) and used it to come up with WiTricity.
MIT's Experiment:
In 2007, Marin Soljacic led a five member team of researchers at MIT (funded by Army Research Office, National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy) and experimentally demonstrated transfer of electricity without the use of wires. These researchers were able to light a 60W bulb from a source placed seven feet away, with absolutely no physical contact between the bulb and the power source.
The first copper coil (24 inches in diameter) was connected to the power source and the second was connected to the bulb, and were made to resonate at a frequency of 10 MHz. The bulb glowed even when different objects (like a wooden panel) were placed between the two coils. The system worked with 40% efficiency and the power that wasn't utilized remained in the vicinity of the transmitter itself, and did not radiate to the surrounding environment.
Is WiTricity a New Concept?
No, this concept of wireless electricity is not new. In fact it dates back to the 19th century, when Nikola Tesla used conduction- based systems instead of resonance magnetic fields to transfer wireless power. Further, in 2005, Dave Gerding coined the term WiTricity which is being used by the MIT researchers today.
Moreover, we all are aware of the use of electromagnetic radiation (radio waves) which is quite well known for wireless transfer of information. In addition, lasers have also been used to transmit energy without wires. However, radio waves are not feasible for power transmissions because the nature of the radiation is such that it spreads across the place, resulting into a large amount of radiations being wasted. And in the case of lasers, apart from requirement of uninterrupted line of sight (obstacles hinders the transmission process), it is also very dangerous.
What's so Unique about Soljacic's experiment?
What Soljacic's team has done is that they have specifically tuned the transmitting unit to the receiving device. The transmission is also not hindered by the presence of any object in the line of sight. If the object to be charged is in the vicinity of the WiTricity source, then the energy transfer will undoubtedly take place.
In this 'coupling resonance' system, the electric energy that is not used up by the receiver does not get radiated into the surrounding environment, but remains in the vicinity of the transmitter. This ensures safety as well as minimal wastage of power. One of the five researchers, Dr. Aristeidis Karalis says that their coupling resonance system is one million times more efficient as compared to that of Nikola Tesla.
Why was WiTricity not Developed before?
It is often said 'necessity is the best teacher' and can be applied in this case as well. Only in this century, has the need for wireless electricity emerged so rapidly, spearheaded by the agony caused by the cumbersome charging of endless devices. Earlier people didn't need it, so they didn't think about it.
How Safe is WiTricity?
Human beings or other objects placed between the transmitter and receiver do not hinder the transmission of power. However, does magnetic coupling or resonance coupling have any harmful effects on humans? MIT's researchers are quite confident that WiTricity's 'coupling resonance' is safe for humans. They say that the magnetic fields tend to interact very weakly with the biological tissues of the body, and so are not prone to cause any damage to any living beings.
What's the Future of WiTricity?
MIT's WiTricity is only 40 to 45% efficient and according to Soljacic, they have to be twice as efficient to compete with the traditional chemical batteries. The team's next aim is to get a robotic vacuum or a laptop working, charging devices placed anywhere in the room and even robots on factory floors. The researchers are also currently working on the health issues related to this concept and have said that in another three to five years time, they will come up with a WiTricity system for commercial use.
WiTricity, if successful will definitely change the way we live. Imagine cellphones, laptops, digital camera's getting self charged! Wow! Let's hope the researchers will be able to come up with the commercial system soon. Till then, we wait in anticipation!
Each appliance has its own set of chargers, and with every family member owning their cellphones, the drawers are overflowing with all sorts of wires. How many times have you wished if there could be some way to do away with all the wiry clutter? When you are on the way to work and your cellphone beeps in hunger for a battery charge, haven't you wished for your cellphone battery to get 'self charged'. Well your plight has been heard by doctor 'WiTricity'.
What is WiTricity?
WiTricity is nothing but wireless electricity. Transmission of electrical energy from one object to another without the use of wires is called as WiTricity. WiTricity will ensure that the cellphones, laptops, iPods and other power hungry devices get charged on their own, eliminating the need of plugging them in. Even better, because of WiTricity some of the devices won't require batteries to operate.
What's the Principle behind WiTricity?
WiTricity - Wireless Electricity, these words are simpler said than done. The concept behind this fascinating term is a little complex. However, if you want to understand it, try and picture what I state in the next few lines. Consider two self resonating copper coils of same resonating frequency with a diameter 20 inches each. One copper wire is connected to the power source (WiTricity transmitter), while the other copper wire is connected to the device (WiTricity Receiver).
The electric power from the power source causes the copper coil connected to it to start oscillating at a particular (MHz) frequency. Subsequently, the space around the copper coil gets filled with non-magnetic radiations. This generated magnetic field further transfers the power to the other copper coil connected to the receiver. Since this coil is also of the same frequency, it starts oscillating at the same frequency as the first coil. This is known as 'coupled resonance' and is the principle behind WiTricity.
The Brain behind WiTricity?
Prof. Marin Soljacic from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is the one who has proved that magnetic coupled resonance can be utilized in order to transfer energy without wires. What's even more interesting is how he came about this idea. Soljacic, just like any of us was fed up of his 'low battery' beeping cellphone and wondered just like any of us if there was a way to get rid of this 'charging problem'. However, here is where the difference between Soljacic and any of us comes in. He didn't just stand there wondering, instead he tried to figure out if there existed any physical phenomenon which could be of some help. He remembered Michael Faraday's discovery of electromagnetic induction (1831) and used it to come up with WiTricity.
MIT's Experiment:
In 2007, Marin Soljacic led a five member team of researchers at MIT (funded by Army Research Office, National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy) and experimentally demonstrated transfer of electricity without the use of wires. These researchers were able to light a 60W bulb from a source placed seven feet away, with absolutely no physical contact between the bulb and the power source.
The first copper coil (24 inches in diameter) was connected to the power source and the second was connected to the bulb, and were made to resonate at a frequency of 10 MHz. The bulb glowed even when different objects (like a wooden panel) were placed between the two coils. The system worked with 40% efficiency and the power that wasn't utilized remained in the vicinity of the transmitter itself, and did not radiate to the surrounding environment.
Is WiTricity a New Concept?
No, this concept of wireless electricity is not new. In fact it dates back to the 19th century, when Nikola Tesla used conduction- based systems instead of resonance magnetic fields to transfer wireless power. Further, in 2005, Dave Gerding coined the term WiTricity which is being used by the MIT researchers today.
Moreover, we all are aware of the use of electromagnetic radiation (radio waves) which is quite well known for wireless transfer of information. In addition, lasers have also been used to transmit energy without wires. However, radio waves are not feasible for power transmissions because the nature of the radiation is such that it spreads across the place, resulting into a large amount of radiations being wasted. And in the case of lasers, apart from requirement of uninterrupted line of sight (obstacles hinders the transmission process), it is also very dangerous.
What's so Unique about Soljacic's experiment?
What Soljacic's team has done is that they have specifically tuned the transmitting unit to the receiving device. The transmission is also not hindered by the presence of any object in the line of sight. If the object to be charged is in the vicinity of the WiTricity source, then the energy transfer will undoubtedly take place.
In this 'coupling resonance' system, the electric energy that is not used up by the receiver does not get radiated into the surrounding environment, but remains in the vicinity of the transmitter. This ensures safety as well as minimal wastage of power. One of the five researchers, Dr. Aristeidis Karalis says that their coupling resonance system is one million times more efficient as compared to that of Nikola Tesla.
Why was WiTricity not Developed before?
It is often said 'necessity is the best teacher' and can be applied in this case as well. Only in this century, has the need for wireless electricity emerged so rapidly, spearheaded by the agony caused by the cumbersome charging of endless devices. Earlier people didn't need it, so they didn't think about it.
How Safe is WiTricity?
Human beings or other objects placed between the transmitter and receiver do not hinder the transmission of power. However, does magnetic coupling or resonance coupling have any harmful effects on humans? MIT's researchers are quite confident that WiTricity's 'coupling resonance' is safe for humans. They say that the magnetic fields tend to interact very weakly with the biological tissues of the body, and so are not prone to cause any damage to any living beings.
What's the Future of WiTricity?
MIT's WiTricity is only 40 to 45% efficient and according to Soljacic, they have to be twice as efficient to compete with the traditional chemical batteries. The team's next aim is to get a robotic vacuum or a laptop working, charging devices placed anywhere in the room and even robots on factory floors. The researchers are also currently working on the health issues related to this concept and have said that in another three to five years time, they will come up with a WiTricity system for commercial use.
WiTricity, if successful will definitely change the way we live. Imagine cellphones, laptops, digital camera's getting self charged! Wow! Let's hope the researchers will be able to come up with the commercial system soon. Till then, we wait in anticipation!
Compressed Air Cars
Compressed air cars are cars with engines that use compressed air, instead of regular gas used in conventional fuel cars. The idea of such cars is greatly welcomed by people of the 21st century, when pollution caused by petrol and diesel is an extremely worrying factor.
History and Development
Many people may think that the concept of compressed air cars is a new discovery; but in reality, it is something that was discovered and tried way back in time.
Engine and Technology
The engine that is installed in a compressed air car uses compressed air which is stored in the car's tank at a pressure as high as 4500 psi. The technology used by air car engines is totally different from the technology that is used in conventional fuel cars. They use the pressure generated by the expansion of compressed air to run their pistons. This results in 'no pollution', as air is the only product that is used by the engine to produce power, and the waste material is the air itself.
Air Storage Tank/Fueling
As thought by engineers and designers, the storage tank would be made up of carbon fiber to reduce the car's weight and prevent an explosion, in case of a direct collision. Carbon-fiber tanks are capable of containing air pressure up to 4500 psi, something the steel tanks are not capable of. For fueling the car tank with air, the compressor needs to be plugged into the car, which would use the air that is around to fill the compressed air tank. This could be a slow process of fueling; at least until air cars are commonly used by people, after which high-end compressors would be available at gas stations that would fuel the car in no time at all.
Emission
The air-powered car would normally emit air, as it's what it would solely use. But it would totally depend on the purity of air that is put into the air tank. If impure air is filled in the tank, same would be the level of impurity of the emission. The emission level would highly depend on the location and time of filling air in the tank.
Advantages
History and Development
Many people may think that the concept of compressed air cars is a new discovery; but in reality, it is something that was discovered and tried way back in time.
- In 1687, Dennis Papin came up with the idea of a compressed air engine.
- In 1838, Andraud and Tessie from Motay, France, built a compressed air car which was eventually tested on a race track in July 1840. This test was a success, but the idea was not pursued any further.
- Mekarski air engines were used in trams and locomotives for public transport in 1872. The front of the engine carried a tank which could be refilled at every station. Many locomotives were manufactured later on the same line of engineering.
- In 1892, Robert Hardie discovered a new method of heating the air and increasing the engine's range, which in turn helped to increase the distance that could be traveled at a stretch. Later in 1898, Hoadley and Knight invented a two-stage air engine that had an even greater range.
- A commercially successful air car was built by Charles B. Hodges in 1896, many of which were sold to the mining industry for mining related operations.
- In 1926, Lee Barton Williams from the US invented an automobile that could start on gas, but after the vehicle reached a speed of 10 mph, the gas supply got cut off and air was used to run the engine, which then could reach a speed of 62 mph.
- An experimental model of the compressed air car was built by Sorgato of Italy in January 1975. It could run at 30 mph for approximately 2 hours.
- Terry Miller developed the 'Air Car One' in 1979. This project cost him $1500, and he sold the rights in 1983.
Engine and Technology
The engine that is installed in a compressed air car uses compressed air which is stored in the car's tank at a pressure as high as 4500 psi. The technology used by air car engines is totally different from the technology that is used in conventional fuel cars. They use the pressure generated by the expansion of compressed air to run their pistons. This results in 'no pollution', as air is the only product that is used by the engine to produce power, and the waste material is the air itself.
Air Storage Tank/Fueling
As thought by engineers and designers, the storage tank would be made up of carbon fiber to reduce the car's weight and prevent an explosion, in case of a direct collision. Carbon-fiber tanks are capable of containing air pressure up to 4500 psi, something the steel tanks are not capable of. For fueling the car tank with air, the compressor needs to be plugged into the car, which would use the air that is around to fill the compressed air tank. This could be a slow process of fueling; at least until air cars are commonly used by people, after which high-end compressors would be available at gas stations that would fuel the car in no time at all.
Emission
The air-powered car would normally emit air, as it's what it would solely use. But it would totally depend on the purity of air that is put into the air tank. If impure air is filled in the tank, same would be the level of impurity of the emission. The emission level would highly depend on the location and time of filling air in the tank.
Advantages
- Air is everywhere, and so freely available. Unlike gas, we don't have the fear of unavailability of air. There would also be no need to pay for buying air.
- Air is not flammable. Hence, there are no chances of an explosion or fire in any way.
- There would be no air pollution as the emission is the air itself.
- If you own a compressor, refueling could be easily done at home.
- The technology used in this type of car would be simple; as there would be no spark plugs, starter, mufflers, and cooling system to deal with.
- The production and maintenance cost of the car would also be very low.
- Refueling the air tank using a low performance compressor can take up to four hours, as compared to the compressors installed at gas stations which would take a few minutes to perform the same task.
- A study has shown that the cars running on lithium-ion batteries perform more effectively than compressed air cars.
- As the air car's body would be made of light material, there would be no scope to use technology that is safe and accident-free. Some people are not not sure about the safety standards of these cars; but some are, as they think that technological advancements would meet the safety expectations of the consumers.
How to Use an iPhone
The iPhone is a high-end mobile phone by Apple Inc. It has many enhanced features such as the large multi-touch 3.5 inch screen with 16 million colors, a light sensor that adjusts the screen's brightness according to the light around, a virtual keyboard, 3G, WiFi, and GPS mapping.
On/Off (Sleep/Wake): Switching the iPhone on and off is similar to other multimedia phones, but the same on/off button has many other functions to offer. This button is situated at the top-right edge of the phone. It's a black plastic button that is similar to a 'dash' in shape. By tapping it once, you can put the phone on standby mode that will turn off the screen, which will in turn, consume less power. You will be able to receive a call even when the phone is in standby mode. Tapping it again will view the screen to carry out other functions.
Pressing the button for three seconds will ask for your confirmation to switch off the phone by displaying a screen with a 'Slide to Power Off' option. You can then place your fingertip on the red right-pointing arrow and slide it to the right, which will turn off the phone completely. You wouldn't be able to receive calls or use any functions of the phone. To turn the phone back on, keep the switch pressed for a second, which will boot the device and the Apple logo will be displayed. When there is an incoming call alert, tapping it once can silence the ringing or vibration and tapping it twice will immediately send the call tovoicemail.
Navigation: There is a home screen button below the screen which takes you directly to the home screen, no matter where you are in the menu. The navigation on the iPhone is mostly by fingertip. Up to nine home screens can be created for quick access. You can customize the screen by arranging the icons and also moving them to another home screen. If you need to view the contents that are in options, you need to tap on the icon for a screen to appear, which will display the contents. If the displayed content is larger than the screen, you just need to slide your fingertip on the screen in the appropriate direction to view the rest. The screen only works with a fingertip, and not with a stylus or fingernail, like other touchscreen phones. You can zoom in photographs, maps, mails or the web by placing two fingertips on the point which you need to zoom into, and stretch them in opposite directions. The method of navigation on the iPhone is interesting for a new user, and is also very convenient once a user gets used to it.
Volume Control: On the left edge of the iPhone, there is an up/down volume switch which works in different ways. When on a call, the button adjusts the speaker or the ear bud volume. It adjusts the playback volume when listening to music. It is also like a central volume control button for other functions that need volume control.
Incoming and Outgoing Calls: By tapping the green 'Call' button located at the bottom of the screen, you obtain a list of contact information which you can scroll through, with your fingertip. You can also tap a number that is part of an SMS, email, contacts or favorites to make a call. If you have many phone numbers in your contact list, you can always use the search feature. You can even talk to more than one person at a time, switch between calls or create a conference call. To answer a call, press the 'answer' key located at the bottom of the screen.
On-screen Keyboard: The on-screen keyboard is the only way to type on the iPhone. The keyboard appears automatically when you tap in a place where typing is possible; like notes, SMS, text boxes, email, address bar, etc. While typing, the phone suggests options for the words you type. Text messages are displayed on the iPhone as an ongoing chat, which helps the user recollect the earlier messages and continue with the conversation. This is also known as a thread. The built-in dictionary suggests corrections in case content is typed incorrectly. If you need the 'caps lock' feature, turn on 'Enable Caps Lock' in the 'Settings' program. If you double-tap the 'L' key, after you have turned on the caps lock option, the key turns blue. It indicates that you are in the caps lock mode. To turn off the caps lock, just tap the 'L' key again.
Camera: An iPhone has a 2 mega-pixel camera that can be activated with a tap on the 'camera' icon from the main screen of the phone. You can rotate the view finder of the phone in any way in order to create the correct screen angle to take a picture. To click a picture, you need to press the 'Camera' icon at the bottom of the view screen. You need to select the 'photo' icon on the main page, which looks like a sunflower, to view all the images.
Music Player: For syncing audio files with your iPhone, install iTunes on your computer and sync audio files to it. Connect the iPhone to the computer and transfer the songs through iTunes. Songs on the iPhone can be sorted by artist's name, genre, playlists, etc. You can simply select the 'iPod' option on the screen to listen to music on the iPhone.
Web Access: Internet can be accessed on your iPhone by tapping the 'Safari' icon at the bottom of the home screen. There is an address bar at the top of the browser where you can type the web address. To get a full browsing experience, turn the iPhone sideways, which will rotate the screen view to a wide-screen mode. Turn it back to a vertical position for a normal view. To zoom in on any content of the web page, double-tap it; and to zoom out, double-tap it again. You can scroll the page by dragging the fingertip up, down or sideways. For adding websites to favorites, find the websites that you need to add, press the 'plus' icon at the bottom of the screen and add them to your homepage favorites. To add a bookmark, tap the 'plus' icon and then the 'add bookmark' icon, which can be accessed by tapping the 'open book' icon at the bottom of the page, followed by tapping on the saved page.
These are some of the basic functionalities of an iPhone. There are many other features and functions supported by the iPhone, which can be learned only through hands-on practice.
On/Off (Sleep/Wake): Switching the iPhone on and off is similar to other multimedia phones, but the same on/off button has many other functions to offer. This button is situated at the top-right edge of the phone. It's a black plastic button that is similar to a 'dash' in shape. By tapping it once, you can put the phone on standby mode that will turn off the screen, which will in turn, consume less power. You will be able to receive a call even when the phone is in standby mode. Tapping it again will view the screen to carry out other functions.
Pressing the button for three seconds will ask for your confirmation to switch off the phone by displaying a screen with a 'Slide to Power Off' option. You can then place your fingertip on the red right-pointing arrow and slide it to the right, which will turn off the phone completely. You wouldn't be able to receive calls or use any functions of the phone. To turn the phone back on, keep the switch pressed for a second, which will boot the device and the Apple logo will be displayed. When there is an incoming call alert, tapping it once can silence the ringing or vibration and tapping it twice will immediately send the call tovoicemail.
Navigation: There is a home screen button below the screen which takes you directly to the home screen, no matter where you are in the menu. The navigation on the iPhone is mostly by fingertip. Up to nine home screens can be created for quick access. You can customize the screen by arranging the icons and also moving them to another home screen. If you need to view the contents that are in options, you need to tap on the icon for a screen to appear, which will display the contents. If the displayed content is larger than the screen, you just need to slide your fingertip on the screen in the appropriate direction to view the rest. The screen only works with a fingertip, and not with a stylus or fingernail, like other touchscreen phones. You can zoom in photographs, maps, mails or the web by placing two fingertips on the point which you need to zoom into, and stretch them in opposite directions. The method of navigation on the iPhone is interesting for a new user, and is also very convenient once a user gets used to it.
Volume Control: On the left edge of the iPhone, there is an up/down volume switch which works in different ways. When on a call, the button adjusts the speaker or the ear bud volume. It adjusts the playback volume when listening to music. It is also like a central volume control button for other functions that need volume control.
Incoming and Outgoing Calls: By tapping the green 'Call' button located at the bottom of the screen, you obtain a list of contact information which you can scroll through, with your fingertip. You can also tap a number that is part of an SMS, email, contacts or favorites to make a call. If you have many phone numbers in your contact list, you can always use the search feature. You can even talk to more than one person at a time, switch between calls or create a conference call. To answer a call, press the 'answer' key located at the bottom of the screen.
On-screen Keyboard: The on-screen keyboard is the only way to type on the iPhone. The keyboard appears automatically when you tap in a place where typing is possible; like notes, SMS, text boxes, email, address bar, etc. While typing, the phone suggests options for the words you type. Text messages are displayed on the iPhone as an ongoing chat, which helps the user recollect the earlier messages and continue with the conversation. This is also known as a thread. The built-in dictionary suggests corrections in case content is typed incorrectly. If you need the 'caps lock' feature, turn on 'Enable Caps Lock' in the 'Settings' program. If you double-tap the 'L' key, after you have turned on the caps lock option, the key turns blue. It indicates that you are in the caps lock mode. To turn off the caps lock, just tap the 'L' key again.
Camera: An iPhone has a 2 mega-pixel camera that can be activated with a tap on the 'camera' icon from the main screen of the phone. You can rotate the view finder of the phone in any way in order to create the correct screen angle to take a picture. To click a picture, you need to press the 'Camera' icon at the bottom of the view screen. You need to select the 'photo' icon on the main page, which looks like a sunflower, to view all the images.
Music Player: For syncing audio files with your iPhone, install iTunes on your computer and sync audio files to it. Connect the iPhone to the computer and transfer the songs through iTunes. Songs on the iPhone can be sorted by artist's name, genre, playlists, etc. You can simply select the 'iPod' option on the screen to listen to music on the iPhone.
Web Access: Internet can be accessed on your iPhone by tapping the 'Safari' icon at the bottom of the home screen. There is an address bar at the top of the browser where you can type the web address. To get a full browsing experience, turn the iPhone sideways, which will rotate the screen view to a wide-screen mode. Turn it back to a vertical position for a normal view. To zoom in on any content of the web page, double-tap it; and to zoom out, double-tap it again. You can scroll the page by dragging the fingertip up, down or sideways. For adding websites to favorites, find the websites that you need to add, press the 'plus' icon at the bottom of the screen and add them to your homepage favorites. To add a bookmark, tap the 'plus' icon and then the 'add bookmark' icon, which can be accessed by tapping the 'open book' icon at the bottom of the page, followed by tapping on the saved page.
These are some of the basic functionalities of an iPhone. There are many other features and functions supported by the iPhone, which can be learned only through hands-on practice.
History of Forensic Science
The application of scientific methods to examine the evidences gathered in order to solve queries, thereby helping the legal system to acknowledge the truth is known as forensic science. These evidences may range from fingerprints to blood samples or from a memory card to a hard disk. The word 'forensic' was derived from the Latin word 'forensis' meaning 'before the forum'.
The first documented use of medical knowledge to solve a crime can be traced to a Chinese book, written in 1248, titled Xi Yuan Ji Lu or 'Collected Cases of Injustice Rectified', written by Song Ci. It contained descriptions of how to distinguish a death due to drowning from a death due to strangulation.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw a great deal of progress in the field of forensic science in Europe. One of the first recorded instances of forensic science application in solving a legal case came in 1784, in England, when a torn piece of paper recovered from the bullet wound in the victim's head matched with the other piece of paper from John Tom's pocket, which led to his conviction.
Fortunatus Fidelis, an Italian doctor, is regarded as the first person to practice modern forensic medicine, way back in 1598. Later, in the 19th century, forensic medicine became a recognized branch of medicine. In 1806, German chemist, Valentin Ross developed a method to detect poison in the walls of a victim's stomach. In a murder trial in 1836, James Marsh, was able to identify arsenic intake as the cause of death with the help of forensic science.
Edmond Locard, a renowned criminologist from France, formulated the basic principle of forensic science, which says, "Every contact leaves a trace". In 1910, he established the world's first laboratory that was fully dedicated to crime analysis, in association with the Lyons Police Department. His seven volume work; Traité de Criminalistique proved to be of great help in many criminal investigations. In 1932, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) established its own forensics laboratory, known as Federal Crime Laboratory with J. Edgar Hoover as its director.
Over a period of time, forensic science has been broadly divided into a few sub-divisions, each specializing in a particular aspect. While digital forensics is applied to prove scientific methods and techniques to recover data from digital media, forensic toxicology is applied to determine the effects of drugs and poison on living beings. Forensic anthropology is utilized to recover and identify skeletal remains whereas veterinary forensics is used to solve crime involving animals.
Forensic DNA Analysis
The DNA of every person is unique, with the only exception being identical twins. An individual's DNA profile can be generated by using samples from blood, bone or hair. Analyzing the DNA samples collected from the crime-scene with those of the suspect for the presence of a set of specific DNA markers can serve as the proof of crime. DNA profiling was first described by an English geneticist, named Alec Jeffreys in 1985. It was first used in England to convict Colin Pitchfork for the murder of two girls, while in the United States, the first instance came with the conviction of Tommy Lee Andrews for the case related to a series of sexual assaults.
The last two decades have seen a tremendous growth in the use of DNA evidence to solve criminal cases as well as paternity detection. Today, a few hundred forensic laboratories contribute to solving thousands of crimes in the United States.
Today, forensic science is used in the investigation of every major crime. Its popularity in the law enforcement community will only help establish justice.
The first documented use of medical knowledge to solve a crime can be traced to a Chinese book, written in 1248, titled Xi Yuan Ji Lu or 'Collected Cases of Injustice Rectified', written by Song Ci. It contained descriptions of how to distinguish a death due to drowning from a death due to strangulation.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw a great deal of progress in the field of forensic science in Europe. One of the first recorded instances of forensic science application in solving a legal case came in 1784, in England, when a torn piece of paper recovered from the bullet wound in the victim's head matched with the other piece of paper from John Tom's pocket, which led to his conviction.
Fortunatus Fidelis, an Italian doctor, is regarded as the first person to practice modern forensic medicine, way back in 1598. Later, in the 19th century, forensic medicine became a recognized branch of medicine. In 1806, German chemist, Valentin Ross developed a method to detect poison in the walls of a victim's stomach. In a murder trial in 1836, James Marsh, was able to identify arsenic intake as the cause of death with the help of forensic science.
Edmond Locard, a renowned criminologist from France, formulated the basic principle of forensic science, which says, "Every contact leaves a trace". In 1910, he established the world's first laboratory that was fully dedicated to crime analysis, in association with the Lyons Police Department. His seven volume work; Traité de Criminalistique proved to be of great help in many criminal investigations. In 1932, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) established its own forensics laboratory, known as Federal Crime Laboratory with J. Edgar Hoover as its director.
Over a period of time, forensic science has been broadly divided into a few sub-divisions, each specializing in a particular aspect. While digital forensics is applied to prove scientific methods and techniques to recover data from digital media, forensic toxicology is applied to determine the effects of drugs and poison on living beings. Forensic anthropology is utilized to recover and identify skeletal remains whereas veterinary forensics is used to solve crime involving animals.
Forensic DNA Analysis
The DNA of every person is unique, with the only exception being identical twins. An individual's DNA profile can be generated by using samples from blood, bone or hair. Analyzing the DNA samples collected from the crime-scene with those of the suspect for the presence of a set of specific DNA markers can serve as the proof of crime. DNA profiling was first described by an English geneticist, named Alec Jeffreys in 1985. It was first used in England to convict Colin Pitchfork for the murder of two girls, while in the United States, the first instance came with the conviction of Tommy Lee Andrews for the case related to a series of sexual assaults.
The last two decades have seen a tremendous growth in the use of DNA evidence to solve criminal cases as well as paternity detection. Today, a few hundred forensic laboratories contribute to solving thousands of crimes in the United States.
Today, forensic science is used in the investigation of every major crime. Its popularity in the law enforcement community will only help establish justice.
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