Edgware allows us to communicate hindrance free even in disasters

One of the biggest problem people face during disasters is the failure of telecommunication system. This happens because people use communication devices that work on different radio frequencies and, moreover, the radio traffic during such time is too much. However, researchers at the Syracuse University have devised a new technology that would allow people to communicate and also share images during all man-made or natural disasters.

New way to communicate

Named as Edgeware, this technology is in the form of a software that people can download on their devices -- be it a laptop, mobile or radio transistors. According to the researchers, it will allow the people to communicate irrespective of the kind of device they use. The software was invented by Professor Lee McKnight, who has been working on this project for last eight years.

After downloading the software, all the users will become part of a virtual wireless grid. This software can link all the devices that have an IP address or that can be accessed by a device having an IP address. More importantly, unlike other communication devices, the virtual grid formed by this software will not require any external server for operation as it uses the existing radio signals to operate. The software can work on all operating systems.

The virtual grid will allow the members to communicate among themselves at all times. Not only this, the grid has a cognitive radio that can pick up any radio frequency on its own and transmit them in the form that can be understood to other people on the grid. It also has an imaging system for taking high definition photos during disasters.

Experts say that during major urban disasters, communication system fails because of variety of reasons. This could be because of the network congestion, disruption of supporting network infrastructure or because of the physical destruction of the network components. However, the present innovation promises the continuation of communication process. Considering the features of the new technology, it has been said to "change the way we communicate" now.

Apart from the disasters, this technology will also be helpful for other purposes. In fact, in the next one year, it is expected to be tested for various small area networks like social radio stations, neighborhood notification system, for creating private network among the employees of a company and for creating internal network for the students residing in the hostels at the Syracuse university.

Via: Syracuse