the etuktuk project

Technology

Writing by kosala on Sunday, 15 of July , 2007 at 8:44 pm

The eTUKTUK is a self-contained mobile telecentre and radio broadcasting unit housed within a tuk-tuk, or three wheeled motorcycle, a favoured form of transport common throughout South Asia. A laptop computer is located inside the vehicle as is a battery operated printer, camera, telephone and scanner. Internet is provided via a CDMA enabled wireless connection and electricity is provided via a 1000w generator. This in turn charges a deep cycle battery that is used to provide additional power for short periods of time.

If you are interested in learning more about the equipment located within the etuktuk, please view this short video below:

Click to Play

A roof rack allows the vehicle to carry other equipment such as the Radio stations mobile broadcasting unit. Narrowcasting of radio programs is achieved via two loud speakers mounted to the roof rack. These are powered via an amplifier and CD player. This system is used to announce the telecentres presence when it arrives in a village or designated location. The weekly route of the eTUKTUK is broadcast over the Radio to inform the listeners as to the location and time that it will arrive in their community.Modifications include the addition of a desk, roof rack and installation of a 240V power supply unit. The modifications were undertaken by local experts from within the community. Aside from the vehicle itself the equipment located within the eTUKTUK can be broadly defined into several categories.

1. Telecentre
The telecentre comprises of a basic laptop, battery-operated printer, scanner, digital camera and a CDMA wireless internet connection. Together the facilities provide access to a variety of government services including exam results and application forms requiring photographic ID. Further activities include creative applications including the digital storytelling format and basic ICT training activities.

2. Narrowcasting
The vehicle successfully narrowcasts both audio and video content. Live and pre-recorded programs can be disseminated in this way. Mobile operation of the narrowcasting equipment is an effective way to announce the vehicles presence and quickly disseminate a variety of information such as in response to an emergency situation. Aside from narrowcasting the equipment is also useful to facilitate workshops, seminars and other community events.

3. Broadcasting
The multipurpose nature of the eTUKTUK allows it to quickly and easily assemble a fully operational radio station. Broadcasting is achieved directly via the vehicles FM transmitter and antenna or through a live program link to the Kothmale Community Radio station through a hybrid circuit connected to the CDMA phone. In combination with a mixing desk the Telecentre component is effectively adapted to become a radio studio. The rear of the vehicle accommodates 2-3 people who can announce directly or interact with the audience via two wireless microphones.

4. Power Supply
Energy requirements are met by a deep cycle battery and 1000W sine wave inverter. For extended periods of operation an alternative power supply is provided by a low-noise 1000W generator and direct connection to mains power supply is possible where available.

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