Everyday Computing, Features

A Sound Solution

By Dr. Lyndell St. Ville- ICT Consultant

THE term ‘solution provider’ is a useful description used by those trained in the field of information and communications technologies to explain in simple terms, what work they do and what skills they bring to bear. To effectively do such work requires a creative mindset, but more importantly, the capacity to combine simpler pieces of technology to produce a greater result. For example, a computer mouse works by measuring your movement of the mouse, and using that information to represent the mouse pointer on your screen.

Another example is the GPS receiver built into your smartphone, which works by measuring the time taken for signals arriving from at least three orbiting satellites to pinpoint your location. In the first example, physical movement is used to locate your mouse pointer on the screen, and in the second example, the time difference itself is used to determine where on earth you are located. Of course, there are other facts which are used to correctly locate your mouse or yourself.

Those facts came to mind after reading the front page of the Weekend VOICE newspaper of 28 January 2017 which asked the question: “Who’s Shooting Up The Place?” In that featured story, concerned residents in the Castries East and North communities reported hearing gunshots in the late evening or early morning, and having “no idea” where these frequent shootings were coming from.

Although the combination of fright and the cover of darkness makes it difficult for residents to identify the location of those bursts, there is a sound application of ICT that may help the disquieted residents and authorities. By deploying a few sensors at strategic locations, the source of a suspect sound may be discovered by the timely measurement and analysis of those disturbing sounds. Armed with that information and integrating a few additional facts, the authorities may combat this nuisance.

The peaceful residents of the affected areas deserve nothing less.

To share your views, contact the author at: www.datashore.net or via The VOICE.
About the Author
Dr. Lyndell St. Ville is an ICT Consultant and Solution Provider based in Saint Lucia. His expertise includes systems analysis and design.

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