Has ICT Replaced Human Brain?

HAS ICT REPLACED THE HUMAN BRAIN?

        If you take a close look, you would notice it seems the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has abruptly taken over from the human brain in recent times. If such observation holds water, one would begin to wonder how an artificial possession can overtake the natural one.

        Considering the ongoing trend whereby, for instance, an average student would in most cases prefer to make use of a calculator rather than his/her brain, you might subtly concur that the human brain is gradually going into extinction. Of course, one may not hesitate to insinuate that the human brain is not anymore needed, since ICT has proven beyond doubts to be the ‘messiah’ when it calls for information sourcing or data storage.

        Indeed, the impact of ICT on man’s daily activity cannot be overemphasized, especially when considered that it can carry out a certain work expressly - and at anytime, without causing much stress for any of the beneficiaries of the work done. Unlike the brain that might not be very active at a given time; for example, you cannot wake someone from sleep and therein ask him/her to help you with a certain information or task. An ICT equipment/system is invariably ready to perform its work, unless when faulty.

         Little wonder, in various Mathematics classes, you would hardly see pupils or students making use of their brain. They are now quick in using their calculators - or handset when the former is not at their reach - even in cases concerning elementary arithmetic, let alone basic algebra or geometry. Those days, candidates who enrolled for external examinations like the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) could not attempt to enter the exam hall with any ICT gadget including calculator, cell phone, or what have you. But nowadays, the exam board (JAMB) itself provides the candidates with such equipment, particularly calculator.

        This implies that even the teachers as well as examiners encourage the students to overlook the use of their brains. This is why most students often laugh at others who try to employ their brain while in classroom, or at their respective homes. Parents/guardians too would stop at nothing to ensure that their wards do not ‘stress’ their brain by providing them with any requested learning material. ICT has apparently dominated the modern generation otherwise known as the ‘digital age’, and perhaps replaced the human brain.

        Lest we celebrate that we need not bother our brain any longer in issues pertaining to learning, routine office works, or as the case may be, let’s not forget in haste that the human brain remains the only endowment that does the thinking – which ICT can never do, not even for a second. The brain can engage in an extensive and rigorous thinking towards proffering the required remedy to any given plight, or providing sound and reliable ideas that can stand the test of time.

        The human brain can store as much information as possible. Your brain might have only a few gigabytes of storage space, similar to the one in your iPod, USB flash drive, or computer hard-disk. But neurons, also known as nerve cells, combine so that each one helps with many memories at a time, exponentially increasing the brain’s memory storage capacity to something closer to around 2.5petabytes – equivalent to a million gigabytes. Similarly, research indicates that the human brain is thirty times faster than the best supercomputer in existence. Moreover, knowledge acquired wholly with the use of the brain gives self-confidence, and such is invariably reliable irrespective of the circumstance.

        It’s pertinent to acknowledge that ICT itself was invented solely by the brain, and any existing IT gadget - such as computer - is programmed mainly by the effort of same human brain. IT equipment such as any computerized gadget provides information on a daily basis, based on what it receives from the human brain; it is called ‘garbage in, garbage out’ in the computer world. Above all, whenever an IT gadget/network gets infested or ceased to perform, it is the human brain that would fix the anomaly. Needless to say that the day-to-day thrive of ICT cannot be adequately effective and efficient without involving the brain.

        The truth is, ICT which remains manmade, can fade at anytime whereas human brain will never. This is the reason we must not make attempt to relegate our brains to the background; else, we shall all live to regret it. Believe it or not, ICT can never be compared to the ‘almighty’ human brain, because the latter is arguably yet to have a rival. Survey shows that no computer can compete with the brain of the dullest human on earth. Hence, we are advised to believe so much in ourselves by finding reasonable time to work on our brains, proudly use it always, as well as endeavour to handle it with absolute care.

        Though the functions of ICT cannot be overemphasized as earlier stated, the role of the human brain remains limitless. The former was invented to serve as an aid to mankind’s daily activity, and not to replace the latter. Think about it!

 
Fred Doc Nwaozor

Twitter: @mediambassador        

      

Let's Salvage Nigeria's Epileptic Economy Via Tech

SALVAGING NIGERIA’S EPILEPTIC ECONOMY VIA TECH

       Epilepsy is a medical term, meaning literally a severe neurological disorder marked by abrupt recurrent episodes of sensory disturbances, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with unusual tremor in the brain. This medical vice can be addressed through the application of lobotomy - a surgical operation in which some of the nerves in the human brain are cut.

       The current Nigeria’s economy - likewise that of other African nations - is arguably epileptic, thus requires such major surgery as lobotomy. However, it’s pertinent to acknowledge that the recommended approach cannot be successfully applied if we fail to employ technology. This implies that technology remains inevitable towards salvaging the country’s economic posture that bears a pathetic physiognomy.

        Development at any phase is always linked with technology, and technology takes place when there’s advancement in science. In other words, science, technology and development are all proportional to each other. Development is required in every individual as well as nation, in all aspects. And for development to occur, science and technology must go hand-in-hand. Science is known as the study of knowledge which is made into a system, and depends on analyzing and comprehending facts. Technology is the application of this scientific knowledge.

        For any successful economy, particularly in present times, science and technology are the rudimentary requisites. If any nation fails to utilize these, then the chances of getting itself developed becomes minimal. Technology is associated in all means with modernity and it’s an essential tool for rapid development. Hence, any country that’s not able to prosper in this regard would never be able to sustain the lives within its jurisdiction, and may have to solely depend on other countries for survival.

        It’s estimated by the World Bank that seven of the ten largest economies of the world by 2020 would be in Asia – including Japan, China, India, Indonesia, South-Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan. A few decades ago, these countries were known to have poor policies, low discipline and no advancement. But with an effective introduction of technology, they have succeeded in making waves all over the world. Nigeria obviously needs to emulate them. Rather than begging them to come over and help us develop Nigeria, let’s ascertain how they made it to the top, so we can apply same techniques without seeking for their assistance since we have all it takes to perform independently.

        The truth is that, the required manpower and resources are abound in this country. What the government needs to do is to recognize the needed labour-force, and the available resources. Secondly, we must be prepared to devote reasonable commitment, which is a product of time; this is where political will comes in. You must be willing to sacrifice your time and energy to a cause you believe in, if you really want it to become an absolute success.

        Ab initio, Nigeria is being taken aback by her leaders. If not, this country would have gone several steps ahead of where it is today. If the government must do the right thing as expected, it has to revive all moribund technical colleges across the country, resuscitate the ongoing Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), adequately equip all the science-oriented departments in institutions of higher learning, as well as take teachers’ wages very seriously. These are the fundamental ways the country’s education sector can be strengthened. The health sector, which is awash with outdated facilities, must equally be liberated by providing befitting structures and equipment that can stand the test of time. 

        Moreover, Nigeria lacks an industry where science and technology can thrive, thus she needs to create one by setting up an enabling environment that can accommodate every professional irrespective of their field. Owing to lack of such environment, the country loses hundreds of talents on a daily basis via brain drain. The government must be willing to assist anyone who has an idea, and not to abandon him/her to rot. A reliable agency that can listen to people’s ideas and channel them to apt quarters ought to be set up by the governments at all levels.

        For urgency’s sake, we must embrace the agric sector through implementation of mechanized farming instead of the ongoing crude pattern. As regards the mining sector, the concerned authority must extend hand of fellowship to the cognoscenti whom must be indigenous, towards acquiring efficient output. The power sector cannot be addressed if we fail to supplement the existing hydro pattern with other available generation sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and coal. The Tourism industry can also be made more viable by inculcating tech measures in the system. Security, on its part, cannot be left out while discussing technology. Lastly, tax evasion can only be properly tackled if we employ adequate forensic techniques.

       There’s no how we can solve Nigeria’s numerous economic crises without engaging technology. Even corruption, which remains the bane of our distress, can’t be duly fought if we overlook technology. If you are still sceptical that tech can fix the country’s epileptic economy, then you’re still asleep and need to be awake. Think about it!

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor

Follow: @mediambassador        

         

Tech Facts About Telecom Devices

TECHNOLOGICAL FACTS ABOUT TELECOM DEVICES

       Telecom is the short form of telecommunication. The term is often used in its plural form, telecommunications, because it involves many different technologies. Telecom is the transmission of signs, signals, messages, writings, sounds and images via wire, radio, or optical system, among other electromagnetic systems.

       Telecommunication occurs when the exchange of information between two or more communication participants involves the use of technology. It is transmitted either electrically over physical media such as cables, or via electromagnetic radiation. Suchlike kind of transmission paths are usually divided into communication channels, which afford the advantages of multiplexing.

       It’s noteworthy that there are several modern telecom devices in existence. Telecom devices are those equipment that are being used by end users through telecom network. Telecom network could be any such network as mobile, exchange, and dedicated networks, or point to point links. Common examples of telecom devices are: computers, fax machines, radio cum television sets, masts, transmitters, trackers, and cell phones.

       The essence of this piece was informed by the compelling need for the overall users of the aforementioned devices to acknowledge how best to handle them towards avoiding numerous dangers inherent in their respective uses and functionalities. It’s worth noting that the continued wrong use cum handling of these devices has caused an untold harm to the human body and the society at large, although their impact on societal wellbeing cannot be overemphasized.    

       Each of these devices comprises Electromagnetic Field (EMF) which emits electromagnetic rays/radiation (EMR) while they are in use. Many people worldwide are yet to realize that they are chronically exposed to something that can deteriorate their health, because EMR is invisible and odourless, and cannot be felt. Unless it is identified and remediated, it can lead to countless health complications as well as premature death.

       EMR exposure, which is reckoned to be the silent enemy endangering the lives of millions of individuals and professionals across the globe, is far worse than cigarette smoke. Keep in mind that all health issues would be affected to an extent by exposure to EMR, since it weakens the immune system, stresses the body and damages healthy cells. The higher the frequency of the radiation, the more damage it is likely to cause to the body.

        Common diseases caused by EMR are cancer, chronic fatigue, constant headache, migraine, asthma, heart problems, chest pain, insomnia, allergies, electrosensitivity (ES), high blood pressure, brain fag, leukemia, birth defects, miscarriages, and stress. Others include nausea, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions like burning, rashes and pain, as well as tinnitus, erratic pulse and weak immune system. While the most acute exposures to harmful levels of EMR are immediately realized as burns, the health effects due to chronic or occupational exposure may not manifest for months, or even years.

        Safekeeping of the cell phones in one’s trousers’ pocket can harm the person’s reproductive organs owing to the EMR being emitted by the phone, and such experience can make the person sterile. Hence, people aren’t advised to keep any phone in their pockets. It is called handset, so keep it in your hand. The truth is that, EMR can penetrate through any part of the human skin, thus even when the gadget is in our hands, we should ensure that it is kept in a special pack or casing that can reduce the frequency of its radiation. If we are at home or in the office, we should endeavour to keep them away from our body. And for those who can engage in a chat for several hours, you really need to cut down the excesses, because you’re unknowingly endangering your health. Don’t overuse the phone at a time.

       The broadcasting/telephone masts mounted amidst residential settlements have caused tremendous harm to the affected residents, unknowingly to them. Wherever a mast is mounted, no one is expected to live anywhere around it. Dwellers are required to live at least a kilometer (1km) away from any mast in use. Even offices are not advised to be located near a mast. Those working at broadcasting stations should keep off from where the FM/TV transmitter is kept, unless when they want to make some changes on the machine. Similarly, don’t stay very close to your radio/TV set when they are in use. Aside your TV/phone screen that can damage your eyes’ retina, the EMR emitted by these gadgets is far more dangerous to health. The children must be guided in this regard.

        Computers such as laptops are not left out. They are called laptops, but that doesn’t imply you are meant to place them directly on your laps. Place a tangible material on your laps before putting a laptop on your body. The desktop shouldn’t also have direct contact with your body. Towards avoiding fire outbreak, endeavour to keep those devices away from flames or flammable zones like gas cookers, filling stations, and power lines, because EMR is highly inflammable.

        Though the aforesaid facts are inevitable, no one is asking you to start seeing telecom devices as your enemies; rather, you are only advised to apply reasonable caution while using them. Think about it!

                  

Fred Doc Nwaozor

Follow: @mediambassador        

       

Between Analog and Digital Broadcasting

BETWEEN ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL BROADCASTING

       The campaign regarding global migration from analogue to digital broadcasting commenced on June 17, 2006. Nigeria signed regional and international agreement to conclude the digital migration by June 17, 2012. In a bid to meet up the deadline, in 2008, the Federal Government (FG) set up a Presidential Advisory Committee (PAC). The following year, the committee submitted its report but the FG failed to implement it, causing Nigeria to miss the June 2012 deadline. The migration deadline was shifted to June 17, 2015. Though the ‘Digi-team’ inaugurated by the FG alongside the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) made a frantic effort to fulfill the mandate, the efforts again didn’t yield any result owing to paucity of funds.

        Now, Nigeria is targeting June 17, 2017 as the new deadline for the long-awaited transition. Having missed the switchover deadline twice, Nigerians are sceptical about the country’s chances of meeting the new date. It has become obvious that for Nigeria to actualize the feat, there’s need to comprehend the inevitable attributes of digital broadcasting, and the dangers inherent in the ongoing analogue pattern.

        Analogue mode of transmission is an unreliable system, though it has worked well enough for over half a century. Analogue TV transmits programming in a continuous signal. The signal varies in amplitude, depending on the information contained in the audio or picture. It is transmitted on a particular radio frequency from the TV station’s transmitting antenna over the air, to the viewer’s TV set. Each TV station is assigned a particular frequency that corresponds to its channel number. So, when a viewer tunes his/her TV to a given channel, s/he has actually chosen to receive transmissions on that certain frequency.

        It’s noteworthy that TV frequencies are calibrated in megahertz (MHz). There are two major transmission frequency bands, namely: Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF). VHF channels 2 to 6 operate in the frequency range between 54 and 88MHz. VHF channels 7 to 13 operate in the frequency range between 174 and 216MHz. And UHF channels 14 to 83 operate in the frequency range between 470 and 890MHz.

       The aforementioned analog signal is far from perfect. It does not usually reproduce the exact original programming. It can easily deteriorate over long distances. It can equally suffer interference from other sources, thereby producing ghost images, static, and ‘snow’. Hence, analog transmissions typically produce a lower-quality visual output than the original. The picture is not quite as sharp – the background is sometimes grainy, and the sound suffers from noise and reduced frequency response.

        A situation where the viewer tries to receive signal from a distant station, is even more unbearable. The farther the station, the worse the picture, likewise the sound. The results are also poor if the viewer is located in a big city with lots of buildings that bounce the signal around. Among all, analogue transmission is inefficient; each VHF or UHF channel takes up a lot of valuable bandwidths.

       Unlike analogue transmission that is prone to fading, digital technology reproduces a reliable crystal-clear picture without any form of interference. Digital tech equally enables TV stations to broadcast multiple channels with different programming. It can fit four or more channels into a single analogue channel; hence, it can accommodate as many wavebands as possible within the existing spectrum. It makes the work easier, improves the professionalism, viewers’ delight, and creates more job opportunities, as well as uplifts income for both the broadcasters and the government. Above all, it would enable more prospective broadcasting firms in Nigeria to be licensed by the NBC.

         To this end, Nigeria needs to hasten up towards meeting the June 2017 deadline. It’s no longer about setting up a team; rather, it is about bracing up to the reality, which is to apply a pragmatic approach instead of the continued indulgence in theory. Digital Terrestrial Multimedia Broadcasting (DTMB), to be utilized by Nigeria, adopts time-domain synchronous Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) modulation technology, with a pseudo-random signal frame to serve as the Guard Interval (GI) of the OFDM block and the training symbol. Its content is viable and reliable, thus worthy of emulation.

       The Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) has a very vital role to play. First, they must acknowledge what they stand to gain. Broadcasting involves generation, transmission and distribution, and it is the duty of the various broadcasting stations to provide the required equipment for the first two phases such as digital transmitter and computers. The government is to provide the instruments for the distribution phase such as ITS and pinnacle. So, BON must conscientize their members to do the needful.

        Towards sustaining the feat, if actualized, the FG needs to create stiff regulations. The NBC would be expected to be more proactive, and endeavour to create the needed awareness. The broadcasting firms need to deploy standard maintenance and anti-hacking softwares, as well as engage reliable tech experts in their daily activities, either as consultants or employees. The overall project is capital-intensive, so there is need for adequate collaboration both on the part of the government and the broadcasting stations. Think about it!

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor

  Follow: @mediambassador