Adapting a communications system to the environment of an African nation

Abstract

Communications technology in the developed world has advanced to a very high level. Satellite communication is one such example that ensures communication can be effected across great distances. Another example is the cell phone which is becoming prevalent in many developing nations. In many African nations some urban centers have access to many modern communication systems. This however is not the case in all urban centers and particularly in rural areas. To improve the situation, a well known technology that can be adapted to suit the African environment is Powerline Communication (PLC). PLC is a technology in which data can be transmitted over electric power lines. With this technology, all facilities in any area that are connected to the electric power grid can have access to Internet applications. While there are some obvious disadvantages, the many advantages that the Internet brings include connection to libraries, research centers and many sources where there are numerous educational materials for both the young and the old. This can also provide access to essentials such as health care. Off-grid areas can be connected by wireless. By this approach different technologies can be combined such that whole nations can be covered by essential communication links. This paper reports the research work being carried out by some students at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, Ghana. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2010.