NEWSLETTER

A House  Journal of

IEEE Kerala Section

Volume 9 Number 2

April - June 2000

 

YEAR 2000 
Chairman's Message 

Dear Enginieeer 

There is one question that is frequently asked : "Despite an early-starter advantage (India's first Electronics Corporation, first Electronics R&D Centre and first Electronics Technology Park) why is Kerala lagging behind the other South Indian states in Information Technology"? Kerala accounts for 3% of India's population but the share of Kerala in software is only around 0.4%. We need to increase the present output by  8 fold so that our share will be at least in proportion to the population. And much more to match the achievement of a state like Karnataka. 

Demography has always been looked impressive and ideal for a knowledge-based industry like software. 100% literacy (does that matter?), abundance of unemployed educated (?) youth, a sizeable NRI population, tradition of international business and trade, high quality of life, excellent facilities for education and healthcare, a good telecommunication network reaching every Taluk, Panchayat etc and infrastructure for R&D and software industry. 

Perhaps, while the above are the prerequisites, they are not sufficient. I believe two other factors are far more critical. One is "People", meaning software professionals. Availability of software professionals in reasonable numbers (larger the better) is a very important factor for the growth of software business. The second is "Markets". Proximity of the markets for software and services is important. (Many say that with good communication infrastructure, distance is not a factor. But, other things being equal, I believe nearness to the customer is still a consideration.) 

"Markets" and "People", thus, appear to be the inevitable resources for the growth of a software centre. The first is an immobile resource, while the second is  highly mobile one. So the latter tends to move from place to place while the former exists. 

While the domestic market for software in India is about one-third of the total industry (the other two-thirds being exports), in Kerala it is just about 10%. The low domestic market in Kerala is a cause for concern. This is, however, not surprising, as a major participant in creating the market is the non-IT industry (engineering, chemical, automobile, etc) which is predominantly absent in Kerala. Another participant, namely Government is also relatively small in size compared to other states. Domestic software market in the services sector - Tourism, Education, Healthcare etc - looks promising but that does not add up to much. Thus proximity of market is not a favourable factor as far as the software industry in Kerala is concerned. 

Coming to "people", one may feel that we have surplus manpower, but that does not constitute human resource. Human resource in software/ IT grows in the industry itself, but not in the University or Institutes. While a fresh graduate from the University is little value, a couple of years of real-life experience in the Industry makes him or her a very valuable resource. In short, human resource will grow only if the industry grows. 

The option is nothing but to let the industry to grow slowly  and steadily. There is no magical solution. Fortunately we have one factor that aids this process - The cost advantage. Although not sustainable, we have demonstrated that this can be used as the starting point. As the system picks up momentum, the cost advantage will make way for the "people advantage". Once a critical mass of people reach the process become self-sustaining. In the absence of "Markets" the only competitive advantage that we can hope to build is "People". The good news is that we have an opportunity to do so. 

Newton's Law of Gravitation seems to apply in this case. Software professionals move to software centres where they perceive better career opportunities. Large concentrations like those in Bangalore attract them more forcefully than the smaller ones in the cities and towns of Kerala. And this force of attraction accelerates the software centre to grow in size. 

We in Kerala, somehow ignore the above basic principle. Our natural affinity is to distribute whatever we have, among all the towns, taluks and panchayats. We distribute our software professionals too and thereby effectively prevent the formation of a critical mass in any one location. Finally the law of gravity comes into play and huge mass elsewhere attracts most of our people. We stand to lose. 

What can IEEE do in this context? A lot. IEEE can create opportunities for professional development. It can promote the formation of interactive clusters and bring and bind them together through its various programme. IEEE activities are directed towards equipping its members with latest trends in technology and its practice, to effectively address the need for career growth. The programme undertaken by the various society chapters and student chapters continuously address this vital need. 

Technical talks, one day seminars and other events can be mark activities at IEEE Kerala Section, which provide ample opportunity to interact with some of the best minds in technology, industry and academics. The National Seminar, scheduled for 28th and 29th July is the jewel in the crown. We have chosen a very relevant and futuristic theme, "Technology Convergence for Global Communications". Mr. Philip John and Mr. Simon Zachariah are taking the lead role in making the event happen. I request all members to participate and contribute to its success. 

K G satheeshkumar 

Top 
 

Diary of Events 

05-04-2000 "Automobile Scenario" - Er. N.T. Nair, Vice President, CMS Computers, Trivandrum. 
11-04-2000 "Career Opportunities IT Enabled Services" - 
Dr. V.Gopalakrishnan, GM, BHEL, Trichy. 
12-04-2000 "Rise in energy charges and flow of fault current" - 
Er. K.K Vasu, Electrical Design Centre. 
19-04-2000 "Engineering and Consultancy in the 21st Century" - 
Er. P.N Bhaskaran Nair, MD(Rtd), RITES. 
29-04-2000 Third Executive Committee meeting at 6.30pm at Harmonieee. 
03-05-2000 "Tips on Building Construction" - Er. K.G Chandrasekharan, Chairman IE(I), Kerala State Centre. 
10-05-2000 "The Magic of Neuro Linguistic Programming" - Dr. A.Abraham, MD, Hidden Resources, UK. 
17-05-2000 "Mobile Communications" - Er.P.P.Ramachandran, Principal General Manager, DoT, in connection with  World Telecommunication Day celebrations. 
24-05-2000 "Petroleum Conservation in Transport" - Er.M.N Prasad, Chairman (Rtd), Railway Board. 
01-06-2000 Millennium Award presentation - a special function to honour the award winners at 6.00pm at Amphitheatre, ER&DCI. 
05-06-2000 "Millennium Environment 2000 - Time to Act" one day seminar in connection with World Environment Day. 
07-06-2000 "Energy Management" - Prof. V.K Damodaran, Director, EMC. 
09-06-2000 Felicitation to NeST - achieving CMM Level 5 status and winning "Best of Best Paper" award in the recent SEPG Conference - jointly organised by GTECH, SPIN and IEEE Computer Society. 
10-06-2000 Fourth Executive Committee meeting at 6.30pm at Harmonieee. 
14-06-2000 "The Engineer and Professional Risks" - Er. P.N Bhaskaran Nair, MD (Rtd), RITES. 
21-06-2000 "Custom Power" - Mrs. K.A. Fathima, Additional Director, ER&DCI. 
28-06-2000 "Creativity in Water Management" - Dr. N.N. Panicker, Tatsat Corporation. 

 
Forthcoming Events 

05-07-2000 "Internet - Broad band Options" - Er. N.T Nair, Vice President, CMS Computers. 
07 to 09-07-2000 IEEE Students Congress-2000 at MRC Nagar, R.A.Puram, Chennai-600028. 
12-07-2000 "R & D Management" - V.B.Sreenivasan, CMD, Keltron at Amphitheatre, ER&DCI. 
19-07-2000 "Image Processing & its Applications" - Dr. K. Kesavasamy, TCS, Technopark, Trivandrum 
28 to 29-07-2000 Annual seminar on "Technology Convergence for Global Communication" organised at Technopark, Trivandrum. 
August 2000 One day workshop on "Latest Trends in Power Electronics" by IA & IE Societies Chapter at ER&DCI. 
 

Top  
 

Section Activities  

ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE ADVERTISING PROFESSION 
On 01-03-2000 Er. V.S.S.Nair, Consultant Engineer, Trivandrum, presented a talk on "Role of Technology in the Advertising Profession". Through marketing management he switched on to the latest trends in advertising and its importance in the present era of modern technology. According to him, mass marketing triggered by mass production is the offspring of advertisement. Also, creativity in advertising was once the monopoly of the human brain. But today multimedia computer and computer literate artists are creating  the same effect. The function of advertising is to persuade a person to a point of view. Nowadays, through modern technology, speedier rate of impression can be made. He concluded by explaining the possibilities of advertisement through web and remarked that the advent of internet has made tremendous impact on the advertisement. 

RECENT TRENDS IN NETWORKING 
A talk on "Recent Trends in Networking" was held on 08-03-2000 by Er. V.K.Bhadran, ER&DCI, Trivandrum. He explained the developments in  the technology of Networking. He emphasised on the latest trends and said that today Data, Text and Graphics applications, 10 mbps switched network and 100 mbps fast Ethernet network are used. The new emerging technologies are ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) and Gigabit Ethernet, for high speed data transmission applications. The XDSL and cable modems are emerging as good solutions and will be finding wide usage soon. He hoped that with Gigabit Ethernet, it will be possible to support new applications in future. The talk was well attended by a good audience including students. 

HOLISTIC THINKING SKILLS 
On 15-03-2000, Dr.Venugopal S.Reddiar, M.D, MRCP(UK), ABIM(USA), Consultant Physician, Detroit, SA, rendered a talk on "Holistic Thinking Skill".  For solving problems in life and work, for setting goals and for achieving success in life, everybody needs good thinking skills.  Thinking will take place only when the emotions are controlled.  The left side of the brain controls the logical, analytical and critical thinking.  The right side controls the creative thinking and interest in arts.  All persons are born with right brain domination, but our educational system stifles the right side and so creativity is curtailed. He opined that an ideal educational system should aim at a balanced development of the mind. For this the artistic expression of the child should be encouraged. "The art of Holistic or rational thinking is a combination of all thinking processes such as analytical, logical, and creative thinking", he continued.The lecture was very informative and inspirational. The participants were delighted to hear Dr. Venugopal on the built-in capabilities and how genuinely they are tuned and utilised by the mankind. 

RECENT TRENDS IN DESIGNING FOR  
SHEAR-COMPRESSION FIELD THEORY 
Dr.S.Unnikrishna Pillai, former Principal, REC, Calicut rendered a speech on "Recent Trends in Designing for Shear-Compression Field Theory" on 22-03-2000. In his delivery he reminded the traditional methods and stated that the traditional design for shear of Reinforced Concrete Structures is based on the ‘45o Truss model’.  Then, he narrated the findings of various studies in the design of structures. This forms a new theory,  known as "Compression Field Theory".  He also pointed out another very useful concept of designing for shear (and in fact for any design) "Strut-and-Tie" model. He concluded by stating the advantage of the new theory. 

AUTOMOBILE SCENARIO 
Er. N.T.Nair pronounced a talk on "Automobile Scenario" on 05-04-2000. He stated that automobile sector plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic strata of any country.  On the positive side, it acts as a major thrust engine to the economic activity by meeting the transportation needs, and by generating employment opportunities.  However, among its ill effects, we can include depletion of fossil fuels and environment pollution.  He also reminded the fact that the automobile sector is continuously enriched by technological advances in every field of engineering including electronics and computers.In the year 1999-2000, the total production of personal vehicles is expected to be 47 lakhs out of which the thirteen car manufacturers will tune out thirteen lakhs cars.  By 2001, the vehicle population in India is estimated to reach 530 lakhs.The greatest cause of the concern arising out of the proliferation of the number of automobiles is the high level of atmospheric pollution. He suggested that greater resort to public transport, staggering of working hours, removal of subsidy on diesel to reduce its usage, banning of two stroke engines, and enforcing optimum utilisation of vehicle during peak hours are some of the measures which can be adopted to combat the menace of over crowding of vehicles.  Also, induction of new technologies such as use of CNG and LPG as fuel, introduction of electric vehicles, and hybrid engines (propelled by electric traction within city limits and I.C.engine traction on highways) etc. will lead to environment friendly transportation system, as he added.The talk was very interesting and also interactive. 

RISE IN ENERGY CHARGES AND  
FLOW OF FAULT CURRENT 
Er. K.K.Vasu, Electrical Design Centre, gave words on 12-04-2000 on the topic " Rise in Energy Charges and flow of fault current" based on the findings of a Case Study and Analysis. He stated that based on the investigation and research into three cases of earth fault current flow which occurred in the premises of flats and residential buildings and household equipments of home electric system it is proved that even a standard earth electrode along with earthing system miserably failed to protect the life, property and energy leakage.  On examination, analysis and calculations of earth leakage circuits of home electric or rising main chamber of a flat reveal the mystery of splitting up of fault current path into (neutral) circuit and earth electrode circuits.  Based on the analysis of these circuits in Kerala context it is proved that nearly 30 MW (Capacity of Panniar Power House) is lost as heat energy in the earthing fault circuits.  So the efficient end use of electrical energy has become an urgent material goal for which a less costlier electronic circuit containing an LED is suggested instead of conventional inefficient ELCBS. He remarked that Kerala climatic speciality, soil conditions, geographic features, non standard electrical constructural practices and materials, vibration of household equipment, over voltage caused by phase changers, unbalancing of phase loads of distribution transformers, low insulation absorption of moisture due to dust and dirt, worn out bearings and housing, getting water into the conduit of concealed wiring during monsoon, roof leakage, overloading and rusting etc. lead to earth faults. And also, "on examination of a blank fuse we can easily distinguish what is an earth fault and short circuits", Mr. Vasu said. 

ENGINEERING AND CONSULTANCY  
IN THE 21ST CENTURY 
A talk on "Engineering and Consultancy in the 21st Century" by Er. P.N.Bhaskaran Nair, MD(Rtd), RITES,  was arranged on 19-04-2000. The speaker reminded that the 20th century conceived the advances made by the industrial revolution which began in the 18th century and the Scientific and Engineering developments made in the 19th century for wealth creation mainly centred on forging a more affluent society for themselves and their progenies.He said that, the means adopted to create increased productive capacity was by exploitation of the limited global resources at the rate that cannot be sustained for long in the future.  Fortunately we are entering the 21st century and moving away from a world where wealth was based on material possessions to a world where wealth is increasingly based on knowledge production and availability of services.  There is a rethinking in business particularly in its approach to wealth creations from an exploitative to a regenerative mode.He remarked that the new millennium is not going to change our basic needs for food, water, shelter, clothing and communication.  They will just continue but in many ways we meet them where there will be revolutionary changes.  The biggest challenge for engineering is the application of the rapid developments in information technology.He continued that the trend to globalisation, closely related to the spread of the internet, economic deregulation and new technologies are also posing great challenges.  However, India cannot remain complacent, as the developed nations will try to compete us in developing countries with lesser technology coupled with financial incentives, bilateral or through World Bank or Asian Development Bank and other global assistance programmes.  Hence India should continue with greater efforts to expand its intelligence skill and innovative potentials through more institutions on research, design and testing facilities particularly in the fast emerging diverse new technologies like Biotechnology, Super Conductivity, Magnetic Storage, Combinational Chemistry, Nanotechnology etc, and advance the existing technologies which are going to shape the new world and hence will determine the success in future of any engineering and consultancy organisation."Let us not forget that it is our solemn duty to develop a unified India of myriad cultures and languages, through adventures in new technologies and enterprises with new technologies  and   new structures of great beauty and splendor like the Taj and other monuments of eternal value",   Er Nair concluded. 

TIPS ON BUILDING CONSTRUCTION 
A talk on "Tips on Building Construction" by Er. K.G.Chandrasekharan, Chairman, IE(I) was held on 03-05-2000. With his past and vast experience in the field of building construction, Er. Chandrasekharan presented a consolidated and channeled review on the topic to disseminate his findings to the participants. He said that due to lack of proper quality control at the time of construction of buildings, cracks develop later.  Structural cracks caused due to faulty design, faulty construction or verloading of the structure are dangerous as they affect the safety of the buildings.  Cracks develop during the life of the building due to moisture changes, thermal variations, creep, chemical reactions, fountain movement and settlement and vegetation.  Remedial measures for all types of cracks were also discussed in his interactive speech.  

THE MAGIC OF NEURO-LINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING 
"Neuro Linguistic Programming or NLP is the brain child of two Americans, Richard  Bandler and John Grinder, eveloped in the early' 70s.  It is a science which deals with the working of the mind". Stating these words Dr. A.Abraham, M.D, Hidden Resources, U.K, shed light on the topic  "The Magic of Neuro-Linguistic Programming" on 10-05-2000 at IE Hall, in a technical talk arranged by the professional societies in Trivandrum.He added that, NLP helps in stress management, personality development and communication skill.  The margin of NLP is based on the idea that excellence has a structure that can be studied and learned by others and it shows you how to change from a non-productive mood to a productive one wherever needed  

Top  
 

IEEE & Society 

IEEE Kerala Section, CSI & Internet Society have jointly organised a course on Computer Awareness for School students at "Harmonieee". The course started on 26th April 2000 for a period of 4 weeks. 

A final assessment was made at the end of the course and the successful participants were given certificates and the top scorers were awarded with prizes.  A valedictory function was arranged on 3rd June 2000 at "Harmonieee" at 6.00pm in which Mr. Satheesh Kumar, Chairman IEEE Kerala Section distributed certificates and prizes. Mr. Sasi P.M, Chair IEEE & Society, Mr. Sasikumar, Internet Society and Mr. Unnikrishnan, Secretary, IEEE Kerala Section were also have tendered their precious words. 

The course was a high success and a great achievement as reported from the feedback of the participants. The society charged only a nominal fee from the participants. Some of the parents witnessed the function and expressed their satisfaction in the smooth and success conduct of the course. They were of the impression that they would not get 'as much' from any other commercial training centres that offer similar courses, charging exorbitant fees. 
In this context, IEEE Kerala Section wish to extend heartfelt thanks to CSI Trivandrum Chapter and Internet Society, Trivandrum for the joint venture. 

From Valedictory function of Computer Awareness Course for students
KG Satheesh Kumar, Chairman, distributing certificate and price.
The Secretary, Mr. AK Unnikrishnan, is also seen.

 
Top 

IEEE Computer Society News 

FELICITATION TO NEST 

A programme to felicitate Network Systems and Technologies (NeST), Technopark, who have been assessed at SEI CMM Level 5. The programme was jointly organised by GTECH, SPIN and IEEE Computer Society. Achieving CMM-Level 5 and winning "Best of Best Paper" award in the recent SEPG Conference is a mile stone in the track of NeST. 

Padmabhooshan G. Madhavan Nair, Director, VSSC was the chief guest of the function. In his speech, he congratulated NeST in achieving the quality through hard work, which is proved through this acceptance. He opined that the software tools and databases should be tuned to Indian conditions have a network within the country. "Focus should always be towards the technology being grown in the country itself. Using IT as a medium for overall development of the technology we have to go for new systems for developing hardware and software which will ultimately benefit the nation at large. This knowledge and technology will find way for solving the problem of the society at last", he stressed. 

Mr. S.K.Pillai, President, NeST gave a clear picture on structure and growth of the organisation which shows its operation mainly on hardware, software and education, focussing on quality. So far NeST's quality achievements are ISO 9001 (July 1997), CMM level 3 (April 1998) and CMM level 5 (May 2000). He also explained 'What is CMM, CMM Vs ISO 9000, Maturity levels, the model, CBA-IPI stages in assessment, benefits, etc'. Capability Maturity Model for Software (SW-CMM) is a framework that describes the key elements of effective software process. It also describes an evolutionary improvement path.  

Mr. Satheesh Kumar, Chairman, IEEE Kerala Section & CEO Technopark, presided the function. Mr Philip John gave felicitation for and on behalf of IEEE Computer Society. Mr. Jahangir expressed his proud and happiness in facilitating NeST by arranging a colourful function. "Grace of God, dedication and commitment are behind this achievement", he unearthed the secrets of the success.  He also hoped that all entrepreneurs in the Technopark should aim at to achieve CMM level 5, making Technopark a centre of excellency in software quality.  

Mr. R. Narayanan gave  welcome speech and Mr. S. Gopakumar extended vote of thanks. 

Top   
 

Students Corner  

Student Branch Activities 

TRIVANDRUM 
IEEE Student Branch, College of Engg, Trivandrum recently conducted a conference on ‘Students Professional Awareness’ (SPAC 2000) at Technopark (detailed report on page 9). The branch has planned to the following activities during June-July. 
*  Launching a "Seminar Club" & "Group Discussion Club" 
*  "Technical Test Series" covering the entire syllabus of 
    each branch. 
*  Industrial visit 
*  Technical Paper Presentation Contest for students 

New  office  bearers  for  the  year  2000 
1.  K.C.Raveendranathan (Counsellor) 
     e-mail : indran@ieee.org 
     Ph: 0471-418370 (Off), 0471-371681 (Res) 
2.  K.Sampath Kumar (Chairman) 
     e-mail : sampathkumar@ieee.org 
     Ph: 0471-361947 
3.  Jayalakshmi Venugopal (Vice Chairperson) 
     e-mail: jayalakshmi@ieee.org 
     Ph: 0471-317869 
4.  Sandeep Menon (Secretary) 
     e-mail : sandeepmenon@ieee.org 
     Ph: 0471-418088 
5.  N.Vinod (Treasurer) 
     Ph: 0471-418088 

KOLLAM 
Claivoyance-2000’, two days conference organised by IEEE Student Branch TKM College of Engg, Kollam in May 2000. R.Narayanan, Vice Chairman, IEEE Kerala Section had attended the conference. 

New office bearers of IEEE Student Branch 
T.K.M College of Engineering for the year 2000. 
1.  V.Sajith (Counsellor) 
     Ph: 0474-712022 
2.  Anish S (Chairman) 
     e-mail : dear_anish@ieee.org 
     Ph: 0474-523800 
3.  Deepa Gopal (Vice-Chairperson) 
     e-mail : deepa-pal@usa.net 
     Ph: 0471-318672. 
4.  Jim Felix Joseph (Secretary) 
     e-mail : josephjim@usa.net 
     Ph: 0474-710071 
5.  Binitha Surendran (Treasurer) 

ADOOR 
New office bearers of IEEE Student Branch College of Engineering, Adoor for the year 2000. 
1.  Philip Cherian (Counsellor) 
2.  Harish.S (Chairman) 
     e-mail : harishs@engineer.com 
     ph: 0473-423372 
3.  Rajani Muraleedharan (Vice Chairman) 
4.  Dino Joseph Mycle (Secretary) 
5.  Sreekanth Ravindran (Treasurer) 

CHENGANNUR 
Kerala Students Congress’ - a 2 days programme planned to conduct on 10th and 11th November, 2000 at Maman Mappila Hall, Kottayam. Important events are Technical talks, Quiz competition, Spot programming competition (C++ or JAVA), Brand Wars, etc. Contact Mr. Alex Jojo Joseph, Event Manager, for more details. 

New office bearers of IEEE Student Branch College of Engineering, Chengannur for 
the year 2000. 
1.  C.V.Anilkumar (Counsellor) 
     Ph: 0479-454125 
2.  Amith Raj Nair (Chairman) 
     e-mail : ieeecec@bharatmail.com 

COUNSELLORS  OF  OTHER  COLLEGES: 
1.  Mr. Paul Antony, M A College of Engineering, Kothamangalam. 
2.  Dr.B.Dayanand, Government Engineering College, Trichur. 
3.  Mr.Santhosh, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology. 
4.  Mr.T.V.Baburajendran, NSS College of Engineering, Palghat. 
5. Mr.Thankachan, Government College of Engineering, Kannur. 

Top   
   

 

Editorial  

A few days back, I was called by one of my friends through telephone. It was late around 11.30pm. From the first utterance itself I could recognise the person. He is holding an executive post in a Government Department. I was surprised with this unthought-of call in the odd hours. Actually at that moment I was wholly in another world - the world of net - the ultimate source for news and happenings in the ongoing era. Just a click away! While I was about to click 'messenger mailbox' to collect new mails from colleagues in our eGroup and also from other sources, the bell rang. 

Indeed, my friend was verily worried about some incidents   happened in his office. That too, connected with new technology. By nature itself he is indecisive to cope up with the  innovations in the field of technology. Today, we all know that the world witnessed the unprecedented growth of IT and enjoying its fruits. The waves are spreading everywhere, every walks of human life. The Government has also taken totally committed efforts in making India a global IT giant. Eventhough, this picture is before us, people like my friend are still living in the 'stone age' as far as the new developments are concerned. 

Coming back to the incident, some marketing personnel approached him in office with an enquiry on purchase of computers. By hearing the talkative salesmanship, the officer remarked that "I am  about to quit service  and also these  things  are beyond our capability and capacity". He added, "others (the subordinates in his office) are not at all interested in knowing it, then what shall I do?" and requested to quit the office. Realising the situation, the man approached the CA and explained  about the 'machine' not in the label of 'computer', its merits especially how it  reduces manual work in the office. In his alluring words, it is 'a new machine like a computer, dictation can be taken as usual but the matter can be typed on it and copies can be taken easily'. Also 'cost is very low, easy to operate', 'they will arrange free awareness training', 'can operate independently within a couple of days' and so on. 

By the by, again the matter was presented  to the officer by his CA. After a long controversy  he agreed to consider the proposal subject to an expert opinion. Incidentally, returning home, the poor fellow forgot the matter. After a half sleep he got up and decided to unveil the incident and to get an opinion. Through telephone he put forth a puzzle before me  "can you say the name of a new machine, in which dictation can be typed, copies can be taken quickly and easily, but not a computer!". And also, "We don't need any computer. But whether this new machine can replace a typewriter in our office and reduce the work load" he continued with curiosity. 

Undoubtedly, the incident occurred very recently and not a decade earlier or even  it a nullity as you may think. What we see in fore-front has no relevance with the activities in the various departments. What it highlights? Government has extensive schemes to educate the executives in various levels in the State departments on computer awareness. I know, on completing such training, many among them  are well conversant with the computers and are doing adequately well in  their office. But a large group is still illiterate in this field. They are least bothered about the recent developments. Moreover they are discouraging others too, may be because of their complexity. This tendency has to be  eliminated. Unless and until this class of people adopt new IT culture, they will become irrelevant and outclassed by the new generation. This ignorance will be harmful to the organisation where they are serving. 

Note that the situation is entirely different in outside the departments. The attitude of the senior people is not the same everywhere. Many of them are eager to know about the computers and other new communication facilities. Especially those who are  living with children and grandchildren feel ashamed of their ignorance as other members are closely associated with the new developments. They are frank enough to express their interest to know ABC's of the things. Their ambition is not to be experts in the field but only to understand the related terms and the news appear on different communication media. They got ample time and the major portion is stolen by these media. 

At the same time, in rural areas, the picture is very worst. Lack of facilities and extension activities from the authorities are the main reasons for this.   Evidently, the computer education institutions and companies are mushrooming in major cities. On the other hand students from rural areas have to depend on these  institutions located in urban areas. They can't imagine 'online learning' or 
'e-learning' facilities at their place without exploring aggressive plan to promote development by the Government. In this situation the awareness with regard to new technology to the common man will be a nightmare, eventhough development on hottest areas like Web, Multimedia and Telecommunications are going on, on the other side. 

The awareness creation is required in two major areas. In first group, those who are employed should be given ample exposure towards the computer in order to meet their requirements. This includes fundamentals containing application packages, Internet, e-mail, surfing on web sites of various subjects, etc. imparting a "working knowledge" to them. In second group, "awareness" creation  include basics on computers, their developments, different application areas, IT and communication revolution, explanation on different terms,  etc, including demonstration using computers. This should be useful for all including students, youth, elder and common man in the society. The professional organisations, IT Mission, etc. can take up such activities. They can  join with NGO's and other social organisations working in rural areas. NGO's should take care on selection of locations, arrangement of target people etc, where as professionals have to impart adequate technology. Also, rapid computerisation of areas where they get instant services. 

Whether or not, installing one or two computers in a school at random, IT revolution will reach the hands of common man? The 'extension' of technological developments to the grassroots level should be the fundamental aim of every accomplishment. This will pave way to solve the problems of the society at last and ultimately benefit the nation at large. 

K Gopalan Nair 
 
Top 

  
Millennium Awards 

Presentation of the Third Millennium Award 

IEEE Kerala Section is proud to announce that the millennium medals instituted by IEEE Headquarters have been awarded to seven members of Kerala Section for their outstanding contribution to the society.  The presentation ceremony was held on 1st June 2000, 6.00 pm at Amphitheatre, ER&DCI, Trivandrum.  The medals & certificates were presented by the Founder Chairman of Kerala Section Sri.K.P.P.Nambiar.  Sri. Muraleemohan Lal, Awards Chair delivered welcome speech, Sri.K.G.Satheesh Kumar, Chairman, IEEE Kerala Section, chaired the meeting and delivered presidential address.  Sri.V.K.Neelakantan, Director, ER&DCI, felicitated the medal winners. Sri.Unnikrishnan.A.K., Secretary, IEEE Kerala Section proposed vote of thanks. 

The following are the prestigious millennium award winners. 

Dr. D S Rane 
Mr. N T Nair 
Prof. V K Damodaran 
Dr. Vijay kulkarni 
Mr. Koruth P Varghese 
Mr. N A P Thampi 
Mr. Gopakumar 

Based on the membership number of the Section, seven members were selected for the award. Let us congratulate them. They have really brought glory to the Kerala Section. 

The function was well represented by the several professionals apart from the members of IEEE.  During the function Sri.Nambiar stressed on the necessity of rethinking by policy makers of our country and the professionals at large, about the over emphasis on the software based developments, ignoring the hardware in this country. "In the total turnover of the computer industry, two third is from hardware. But where is the present position of India when compared with China, Thailand and Taiwan? India has a very good chance to make hardware instead of getting them from other countries" he continued. "Hardware is the only industry for getting job and a panacea for unemployment problem" he added. He reminded that the salvage of industry like Keltron in Kerala has prime importance in this context. Referring to the global need of millions of software professionals in near future and  the chances of Indian professionals getting job in other countries, he opined that besides these opportunities we could able to develop  software for our country for various applications which will accelerate the changes of our system from conventional methods. He concluded by expressing his immense pleasure in attending the function. 

In his felicitation speech, Mr. Neelakandan said that IEEE is the only scientific institution honouring the senior members for their exemplary service to the society. IEEE always gave forum to exchange their idea among the professionals and in future it should give more attention to attract engineers through membership. He suggested that IEEE should encourage its members to produce competent papers of international level and bring them in international magazines and other publications. 

By representing the medal winners, Dr. Rane, expressed the gratitude to IEEE Kerala Section in nominating the fellow members to get the award. 

 

From Millennium Awards presentation ceremony
Dr. D S rane receiving medal from Sri. K P P Nambiar

 
Top 
 
SPAC 2000 

The Students' Professional Awareness Conference (SPAC 2000) was held on 4th March 2000 at the Travancore Hall at Technopark, Trivandrum.  The event was a day long affair and consisted of four talks of eminent professionals in the city.  The programme attracted overwhelming response from the students.  There were about 170 delegates from various engineering branches - the highest number in attending a SPAC conducted by the Student Branch. The programme started at 09.30 Hrs and ended at 17.30 Hrs.  The first speaker of the day was Dr.K.Ravi from Energy Management Centre.  He spoke on "The Role of Sustainable Energy And Development".  It was followed by a presentation by Mr.Satish Babu on "IT-Enabled Services". The afternoon session started with a speech by  Mr.S.Gopakumar, VSSC on "Introduction to Real-time Systems".  This was followed by "Creativity at Workplace" a talk  by Mrs.Pushpa Kurup, TCS, Trivandrum. Each talk was followed by short interactive session. In short the event was a great success. 
   

 
Top 

Announcements 

IITF 2000 

South India's largest trade show 
20th INDIA INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR 
PRAGATHI MAIDAN, NEW DELHI 
NOVEMBER,  14 to 27, 2000 
Concurrent Shows 
Asia Pacific Millennium Fair 
IT Show, Technology Export Pavilion, etc 
Business Prospects Information 
Technology Telecom Entertainment Electronics Consumer Durable, etc 
For further information visit at: 
http://iiftonline.com 

ACE 2000 

15-17 December 2000 at Mumbai 
Theme: Software Challenges Ahead 
Contact: R.Muralidharan, Chairman 
IEEE Bombay Section 
e-mail: r.muralidharan@ieee.org 

Executive committee held on 29-04-2000 congratulated: 
i)  the Secretary for the prompt reporting system adopted. 
ii) the Editor for the News letter published for year 2000, in an excellent form. 
   e-mails and calls are also received from members and other professionals appreciating their    reporting and editorial skills. 
 
CCA & ISIC 

2001 IEEE Conference on Control Applications (CCA) and the  2001 IEEE International Symposium on Intelligent Control (ISIC) 
First Announcement and Call for Papers 
5-7 September 2001 
Presidente Inter-Continental Hotel 
Campos Eliseos 218, Mexico City, Mexico. 
http://www.control.rice.edu 
Both conferences will run in parallel. 
The sessions will be held Wed, 5 Sept-Friday, 
7 Sept, 2001 with workshops on Tues, Sept 4. 
There will be only one registration fee for both conferences and all attendees will receive proceedings from both conferences. 

IMPORTANT DATES: 
Jan 31, 2001 Papers, Session 
Workshop Proposals due 
March 20, 2001 Notification 
of Acceptation/Rejection 
May 4, 2001 Final Camera-Ready Papers due 

 
Top 

Appointments 

SOFTWARE PROFESSIONALS REQUIRED 

1. For a fastest growing software company in USA, professionals in the following areas: 
    OOD/OOA : E-Commerce : Embedded Systems 
   Telecom Products : Telecom Test Automations 
   NMS/GUI Development : Unix Experts 
   More details visit: www.comptelinc.com 
   Send resume to : careers@competelinc.com 
2. For a company in Technopark, Trivandrum. 
    2 Programmers, VB & VC++, min 1 year experience, knowledge of Sorting algorithms,       Geometrical algorithms (2D) like transformation, calculation of object interaction points, 
Vector arithmetics, etc. Extra merit - Electronics background. 
Contact : jvkerala@hotmail.com 
3. For Xstream Software Inc, Ottawa, Canada for their subsidiary unit in India with HQ at   Trivandrum and units at Trivandrum and Bangalore. 
Project Manager: B.Tech or M.Tech Computer Science & Engineering or Electronics. Above 5  years experience in Software Industry. Well versed with Java, VC++, C++, MFC, COM, Windows NT 4.0, 95, 98, Unix, Linux. 
Team Leaders:  B.Tech with 2 to 3 years experience as above. 
Bio-data can be e-mailed to: careers@xstreamsoftware.com 
4. For the Oracle Datawarehousing Practice- 
    Oracle Group - to support business plans.(Finance and Accounts Professionals) 
   CA/ICWA, 1+ years of post qualification, knowledge of any ERP package, 
   Oracle  applications  preferred. 
   e-mail the resume immediately to: pavan_desiraju@sathyam.com 
 
Top 

The Story of a Wood Cutter 
R.Narayanan, Corporate Manager(Edn & Trg), TCS 

Prem was a woodcutter who worked from early morning to late evening but could not collect any substantial amount of wood.  A passerby noticed the low level of productivity.  He wanted to engage Prem in a conversation and offer free consultancy.  However, Prem would have none of it.  Talking to a stranger about his process would cut into his productive work time. The consultant on his own did a quick casual analysis and found that the axe used by Prem was too blunt.  He advised Prem that by sharpening the axe, the results would improve.  Prem retorted that he could not afford to waste his wood cutting time for sharpening the axe. The time spent in sharpening does not directly contribute to additional wood.  An alternative suggestion was given to which from the conventional axe to a modern tool that does modular cutting.  The new cutting tool would have triple blades and programmable adjustments for depth and breadth of cutting.  Prem was all too familiar with the existing tool and was reluctant to learn the usage of any new tool.  He remained where he was working harder and harder but without any corresponding result to show. 

The software industry has the likes of Prems in large numbers.  According to a Microsoft Project Manager, "more people have ascended bodily into heaven than have shipped great software on time".  There is no other activity that offers so much scope for introducing errors than development of software. New concepts, methodologies and tools are developed to address the twin issues of productivity and quality.  These have shown results at least to some who have dopted them.  The sharpening in the above anecdote, in our context,  maps into learning, training, reviews, walkthroughs, inspections, unit testing, system testing and so on.  Projects that interpret time spent on these activities, as not directly contributing to wealth creation would remain where Prem remained - schedule overruns, deliver of decreased functionality and enormous hidden costs of rework. 

Social Responsibility 

When we deliver software, the primary goal is that someone should be able to use it comfortably.  The users' hassles start right from the struggle to install the software.  Thereafter, the User Interface goes counter to intuition (to 'shut down' Windows you have to click the 'start' icon!).  The run time error message require knowledge of Hebrew to decipher their meaning.  The only course of action is to press 'continue' or 'cancel' buttons without being able to predict what would result.  The users pay and buy software.  Invariably they curse themselves for not being smart enough to use it.  This is social injustice of the highest order where the dice is loaded heavily on the suppliers' side.  Let us resolve to deliver "usable" software.  Difficulties faced while using the software should be attributable to the developer rather than the user.  We should develop a strong conviction in constant learning, training, peer reviews, inspections and all available quality assurance mechanisms.  That alone would  make us true socially  responsible citizens. 

(Reproduced with permission from 
TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES, TRIVANDRUM) 

Top 

FOR YOUR KNOWLEDGE BANK 

SONY'S TYPECORDER WAS THE FIRST LAPTOP COMPUTER 
First Artificial Intelligence capable device was a 'Tortoise' made in 1950 by Mr.W.Grey Walter. It moved around the floor under its own power.  When the internal batteries run low, it would automatically make for the nearest power socket, plug itself in and recharge them.  When fully replenished, it would detach itself from the socket and again restart it's blissful adventures across the floor.  Please note that all these were being done at a time when digital technology was as its infancy when microprocessors were not even thought of. 
(Compiled by N.T.Nair) 

SIDRAPONG INDIA'S FIRST POWER STATION 
Situated 12 km away from Darjeeling railway station , Sidrapong happens to be India's first commercially run power station (Hydel, thermal or any other kind), commissioned way back in November 10, 1897, began the electrical era in our country.  The plant set up at a cost of Rs.1.2 lakhs was also the first hydel power station in Asia. 

From the initial 2 x 65 kW, single phase, 2300 Volt, 83.3 cycles configuration, the power station went through a number of upgradation to 4 x 200 kW three phase system in 1931.  The station was operative in full swing till 1993 when it had to be shut done due to some natural calamities.  It is lying idle since then.  The centenary of this power station was celebrated at Darjeeling in November, 1997, by recommissioning one of the 200 kW generating sets. 
(Reported by: N.T.Nair) 

CENTURY PAPER 

A Japanese company has developed paper that may last for 1000 years. Most papers deteriorate because they contain traces of lignin, a complex oxygen - rich organic substance which is the chief ingredients made with wood along with cellulose. The lignin makes paper change  in colour and print fade, eventually disintegrating altogether. Oji paper has reduced the lignin content by treating the wood pulp twice with a secret chemical to produce paper that says can "record information" in the 21st century until the 30th century. 

eGroup 

A free and easy-to-use email group service for IEEE Kerala Section Members. A member of this group, can send messages to the entire groups using just one e-mail address: ieeekerala@egroups.com. eGroups also make it easy to store photos and files, coordinate events and so on. It helps for free exchange of thoughts and ideas, events, activities, etc. It also supports the professional growth of the IEEE community. IEEE members from outside Kerala are eligible to become member of the eGroup. 
For more about IEEE Kerala Group please visit: http:/www.egroups.com/group/ieeekerala 
 
Top 

TECON 2000 

Annual seminar 
on 
TECHNOLOGY CONVERGENCE FOR GLOBAL COMMUNICATION 
in connection with Silver Jubilee Year of IEEE Kerala Section 

DATE 
 28-19 July 2000 

VENUE 
Technopark, Trivandrum, Kerala, India 

Scope

Global Communication is pushing boundaries beyond limits.  No one can fully grasp the changes that lie ahead in  Communications. Yet we are constantlycompelled to make decisions that have a long term impact on our future. TECON 2000 will shed light on the cutting edge technologies in the communication arena paving way for a Global Village. This seminar will immensely benefit Engineers, Managers and practising professionals. Experts from across the world will deliberate on the following subjects. All talks will cover technology application and deployment. 

                       1.3G Mobile - Third Generation Mobile standard offers 
                          high speed data, internet access, e-mail and multimedia 
                          capability to mobile phone. 
                       2.WAP - Wireless  application  Protocol is an open  standard 
                          which enables  efficient and optimized application on mobile 
                          phones. 
                       3.VoIP - Technology that enables transmission of voice signal 
                          in digital packets over internet protocol. 
                       4.GPRS/EDGE - General  Packetised  Radio  System  and 
                          Enhanced  Data  Rate for Global Evolution are technologies 
                          that  upgrade  the  existing  second  geration mobile phones 
                          with enhanced data rate and other features. 
                       5.MPLS - Multi Protocol Label Switching is a new 
                          technology which improves efficiency in internet traffic. 
                       6.DSL - Digital Subscriber Line technology enables high speed 
                          data to customers through existing telephone lines. 
                       7.Blutooth - An open standard for short range wireless 
                          communication which links PCs, telephones and household 
                          gadgets. 
                       8.WCDMA - Wideband Code Division Multiple Access is a 
                          technology which enables enhanced features to 3G Mobile 

REGISTRATION FEE 

IEEE Members   --   Rs.750/- 
Non-Members    --   Rs.1000/- 
IEEE student Members   --   Rs.250/- 
Students    --   Rs.400/- 

Cheques/DD should be drawn in favour of IEEE-TECON 2000 payable at Trivandrum. 
On-line registration is available at our website. 

For further information, visit: 
www.ewh.ieee.org/r10/kerala 
e-mail: ieeek@vsnl.com 

Top 

Workshop on Latest Trends in Power Electronics 

August 2000 

Venue 
Amphitheatre, ER&DCI, Trivandrum 

Organised by 
Joint Chapter on IA &IE Societies 

Co-sponsored by 
ER&DCI and 
Kepteck Power Controls (P) Ltd, New Delhi 

Technical papers are presented by experts from related fields: 

V T Ranganathan,  IISc, Bangalore 
Gautam Poddar, ER&DCI, Thiruvanthapuram 
AK Unnikrishnan, ER&DCI, Thiruvanthapuram 
ZV Lakaparambil, ER&DCI, Thiruvanthapuram 

Registration Fee 

IEEE Members   --   Rs.500/- 
Non Members    --   Rs.750/- 
Student Members--  Rs.250/- 

For further information: 

R Dudeep Kumar 
Secretary, Joint Chapter on IA&IE Societies 
Joint Director 
ER&DCI 
Trivandrum -33 
e-mail: rspeg@hotmail.com 
Ph: 0471 320116,333226 

Top 

Printed and published by K.Gopalan Nair, T.C.5/1637, Ambalmukku, Peroorkada,
Trivandrum - 695005  on behalf of IEEE, Kerala Section. Typesetting: Akshara Offset,
Trivandrum. Phone: 471174, 473470
Editor: K. Gopalan Nair  E-mail: kgnairs@hotmail.com   phone: 437449