Technology

Integrating Technologies

FVT has knowledge and understanding of integrating technologies through working with satellite technology and our on-the-ground experience. We are able to offer expansive technical solutions that work for your project, no matter the conditions. Please click on the following links to see each of our technologies:

Sustainable computer systems, a first for many communities

The majority of communities in the developing world have little chance of ever owning a computer, let alone have the electricity, skills and means to maintain it. Even with a computer and electricity, reliable access to information on the Internet is unlikely due to cost and lack of infrastructure.

For many of our projects, we have equipped community information centers (CICs) with specially designed computer systems - so communities can access web-based news or information on health, climate, agriculture, schooling and market prices.

CICs consist of a laptop computer, printer, WorldSpace receiver for connection to the satellite, and solar panels to provide electricity to these remote installations. By connecting the receiver to the laptop (a simple USB connection), the users are able to download data from the FVI Multimedia Service (MMS) (link).

FVI has worked extensively with computer manufacturers to provide systems that are low cost, energy efficient and able to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

We also train local partners to download data and maintain their systems, as well as how to produce local language content and upload it to the satellite. This allows communities to make their voices heard and share invaluable knowledge and experience.

In rural or remote environments, electricity is unavailable, unreliable or too costly

Developing an energy plan is critical to the success of remote and rural communications, so FVI works hand in hand with solar panel providers to create an appropriate system for providing the electricity required by the equipment.

In many cases, the electrical system we set up provides the first ever source of electricity in the area. Solar power, therefore, gives us the means to establish communications systems in otherwise unreachable areas.

However, providing solar power is quite costly, often eclipsing all of the other components combined. FVI must carefully balance energy requirements with the resources available for each project.

Making Internet available - in the remotest of places

A Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT), is a two-way satellite ground station with a dish antenna which is less than 3 meters in diameter (most VSAT antennas range from 75 cm to 1.2 m). VSAT technologies enables remote communities access to high-speed Internet, VoIP* and other IP-based services - where cell phones, electricity and terrestrial Internet are not available.

This enables two way communications, which is vital during an emergency. VSAT equipment is not dependent upon local infrastructure, so it provides an ideal way to communicate in a disaster situation.

VSAT terminals/transceivers are comparable in size, price, and power consumption to a laptop computer, however the major cost of the system is related to the price per mega-byte (bandwidth used), which can be as high as $7.50 US.

To bring down the cost, FVI is designing a system that incorporates a monthly bandwidth allowance for each terminal/node that allows people to send and receive 1000 text-based emails per month.

A governor is placed on the system, such that the user can only send and receive e-mail and receive targeted downloads. The system provides an effective way to collect remote data and promote dialogue and feedback - in a cost-effective way.

*telephone via Internet bandwidth instead of a regular phone line

A cost-effective investment over the long term

HF (High Frequency) radio is great for verbal two-way communication over long distances, particularly during emergencies.

An additional benefit is HF radio's use in sending and receiving emails, when integrated with other technologies.

So, HF radio also meets a common need for low-bandwidth. It can be used for gathering remote data, to provide remote technical assistance/training, or to distribute operational information on what needs to be done and how.

HF radio does require significant investment to set it up, but ongoing use is free, so over a long period of time it proves to be very cost effective for limited and emergency communications.

In some situations, use of HF email may be restricted by licensing fees. The local capacity to use and maintain the network also needs to be taken into account before choosing HF.

A simpler way to collect data from remote areas...

Throughout the world, wireless phone networks are expanding faster than most other methods of communication. Many wireless networks and phones are capable of sending and receiving SMS (short text messages), offering great cost-effective two-way communication for field reporting, remote data gathering and early warning.

FVI is developing software and hardware solutions to integrate mobile phones with other technologies and allow remote users to send and receive messages to a central computer/server. This enables FVI to process large quantities of field-gathered data into reports and maps. Text messages are currently limited to 160 characters or less, so an alternative is still being sought for more detailed and data heavy applications.

Printers that use less ink and energy

Often paired with its customized computer systems and alternate energy sources FVI delivers efficient and cost-effective printing solutions to projects in remote areas.

Ink and energy efficient printers allow community information centers to print and distribute downloaded information to an even wider audience where appropriate.