Monday, August 20, 2007

Vote of no confidence – how to improve electronic voting systems

There is no doubt that sophisticated computers have the potential to handle election data better than the card ballot method, yet contrary to what one might expect, the introduction of electronic voting systems across the world has been plagued with damaging allegations of incompetence, corruption and severe exploitation. The University Voting Systems Competition aims to raise the credibility levels of electronic voting systems and encourage people to get involved in the democratic process to such an extent that, not only will they vote for a leader, but they’ll design the very voting system itself. With some gaping design flaws and a lack of public confidence holding electronic voting machines back from making a significant impact in global democracy, it’s an initiative that’s sorely needed.

A certain amount of error is expected in elections, no matter what method is used to collate the votes. This error is acceptable only because, with one delivery system, it will impact the candidates more or less equally. When errors in vote tallying show bias, however, they become unacceptable. The problem with electronic voting systems is that, for a number of reasons, they are prone to the latter type of miscalculation.

The first reason for this is implementation. Due to financial or bureaucratic concerns, many countries are making the transition to electronic voting systems on a state by state basis. This is a cause for concern because if the error levels between the competing systems don’t match up, it could alter the result of the election. However, making an instant transition to a single computer voting system also carries a fatal flaw – the company in charge will have a monopoly, and therefore is in a position to remain unchallenged and unimproved.

The second reason electronic voting is treated with suspicion is because of the inherent weakness of a computer system. A paper ballot system leaves a hard copy record which can be scrutinized in a time consuming, but accurate, audit. But electronic voting systems sell themselves on the fact that they make paper trails unnecessary and redundant. Not only is there no hard evidence of the voting tally, but the computer records themselves can be erased or tampered with. Unlike with paper ballots, the electronic voting record is neither independent from the voting system, nor verifiably true.

Which leads to the third reason electronic voting is mistrusted. It increases the ease with which individuals in positions of power can manipulate the election results. Systems in use in the US and Europe have been questioned in terms of being vulnerable to software alteration that can effectively hack the system. In paper ballots, it’s not possible to simply press some buttons and change what people have written. In electronic voting, this is a frighteningly realistic scenario.

The University of Surrey won the best system in the VoComp tournament with their Prêt-à-Voter model. David Lundin, a PhD student and member of the team comments: “We want to make it possible for all voters to check that their votes were actually counted. This is called end-to-end verifiability and my bet is that this is the way we will safeguard democracy in the future.”

The electronic voting research conducted at Surrey and other institutions around the world aims to create systems that not only are able to count millions of votes quickly but also makes elections truly verifiable. Michael Shamos, a computer science professor responsible for testing the accuracy of voting machines, says of their many problems “If smart people put their minds to solving this, it will be cracked very quickly.” Lucky, then, that VoComp has the attention of the best and brightest.


http://www.gizmag.com/go/7755/

Saturday, August 18, 2007

How Your Ipod Can Aid Exercise

Modern living has become much more technology based and sedentary, with virtual entertainment being the most popular pastime of choice. This has obvious effects upon health and the world has startling increasing obesity levels. Although technology is not to blame, rather than the people who choose to use it, more could be done to integrate technological entertainment into a more active lifestyle.

Research has consistently shown that listening to music improves mood, and the most recent findings suggest that music actually gives a cognitive boost. Listening to music during exercise improves most people`s performance in a number of ways. Music provides an encouraging rhythm which synchronizes with the movement during exercise, and which helps push further. It also distracts from event. The iPod has already helped many sports enthusiasts to enjoy their regime more fully, but now the iPod can offer some real assistance.

The iPod with sport shoes consists of two elements; a music player and a pedometer. These two items have been important for the runner for a long time, but now the iPod version has many additional features. The device works as follows; a sensor fits into the sole of a specially designed sport shoe. The receiver is plugged into the iPod which has the battery power, the memory and all required software installed. The sensor detects footfall like any other pedometer, and sends the information through transmitted radio waves. Each device has its own unique code and so even if there a few runners using the iPod accessory, only your information will be received. Another clever feature is that different sensors can be used on a single device, so more than one person can benefit.

The real beauty of the this kit setup is the extent of the information transmitted. It sends to the device the number of calories burned, but also calculates speed using equations which consider foot fall and the amount of time the foot is spent on the floor. Other information provided to the iPod includes distance and comparative statistics to previous performances. Goals can be set on the software and the results will state how your performance compared to your goals. In addition to this, the device allows you to create play lists for your workout.

Although the level of information is excellent, it is easy to read whilst working out. The iPod come with a click wheel which acts as a control whilst running. The information is not just stored on the screen, but is also provided by a computerized voice system. The device is easy to use overall, with the required software already installed in the latest models, with the software available to download for older iPod`s through the online update feature.

Once the workout is complete, the statistics can be stored on a computer. There is then the option to join a huge online iPod community where information uploaded from the device can be shared with other runners. This can be helpful for goal setting and to set challenges. Running enthusiasts can compare information, and even share routes with an innovative mapping function. This additional feature of services gives an excellent social dimension to an often lone sport. It is amazing that this can be done online.

Overall the benefits of the iPod with sport shoes include advanced equipment which combines two important elements for sport; music and information. The device is lightweight, compact and the software is top of the range. It helps improves health, through enjoyment and factual assistance, and is available for all users despite the age of their model.



http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/How-Your-Ipod-Can-Aid-Exercise/128938

Wireless Microphones Buying Guide

A wireless microphone is all about convenience and a great sound quality at the same time. As the name implies, a wireless or cordless microphone is a device that has no cables altogether. It is a higher version of a typical wired microphone apart from the fact that this model is cordless and bit bigger than the conventional microphone as it houses a battery pack and he transmitter. With some of the great technological features, the wireless microphone is nearly getting perfect in all the aspects like interference, range, battery life, and sound quality. That is why, in today’s scenario, the wireless microphone is extremely popular and comes handy for any onstage performance.

The wireless microphone is very much beneficial for the professionals as it gives them freedom to use the stage at will without the tangling of cables anymore. Such freedom is required for any music concert, presentation, karaoke, competitions, and many other such events, which calls for absolute flexibility without compromising on the sound quality. That is where the wireless microphone comes as an apposite solution. As come the advantages, so are the disadvantages of using a wireless microphone. For instance, a wireless microphone can help you to get rid of the cabling problems of a typical wired microphone, generally caused by constant moving and stressing the cables but at the same time, many of the models offer a limited range that makes them useable within a range of 100 meters. Another typical problem still faced with some low-end wireless microphones is of the interference with other radio equipment or other microphones. The answer to this issue can be found in the new models well equipped with many frequency-synthesized switch-selectable channels. Another typical problem faced with the wireless microphone is of the operations time as it works on the battery.

That is why we have some suggestions that will help you to choose the right kind of wireless microphone from the available lot of products. Here is a buying guide for wireless microphones.

Step#1
Make a list of features you want in the wireless microphone. This can include range, operation time, no. of channels, and other important aspects.

Step#2
Once you have defined your requirement, you are now ready to search for the right model from the available range of wireless microphones.

Step#3
Identify if a body pack microphone or a standard handheld microphone fits the bill. They offer the same features but can be used differently. In the body-pack microphone the body-pack is a small box, generally the size of a cigarette packet, houses the transmitter and the battery pack. The body-pack transmitter easily clips to the user's belt or can be worn on the body. Whereas a handheld wireless microphone is more like the conventional microphone with the basic difference being that in place of the cable this is bit bigger to house the transmitter and the battery pack.

Step#4
Once you have decided on that, it is time to look at the prices of the short listed microphones. Compare the products well and then make your choice.

Step#5
Before you finalize a wireless microphone make sure to take a trial if you are shopping physically. If shopping online, make sure to read the reviews carefully.


http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Wireless-Microphones-Buying-Guide/129244

Best Handheld Devices

They are here to make your life better and convenient. Yes! We are talking about the best of handheld devices that are available in the market. Let it be finding your way through the woods or storing your precious data, these handheld devices can handle the job better than any other conventional way of doing so. That is not all, this is done by a device that can easily fit in your palm and slide in your pocket. These new age devices have added an altogether new dimension to our lives and it is not an exaggeration that within the small period of time, they have made themselves irreplaceable. Today, the PDA device or the digital organizer is an integral part of our day to day life not forgetting about the useful GPS handheld devices that helps us to find any location within few clicks.

Let’s learn more about the best of the handheld devices that are functional and have eased our lives to a great extent. The first handheld device that comes to mind is a PDA or Personal Digital Assistant. In a nutshell the PDA device can be called as a ‘smart’ pocket computer. The handheld PDA devices are completely functional devices that offer portable electronic productivity and entertainment that come in several sizes with varying capabilities. They range varies from basic devices typically used to look up appointments and phone numbers to more advanced units that play music and videos or connect you to the Web. With the advance of technology, the most significant trend in the present time is the use of handheld devices for communication via wired or wireless networks. A handheld PDA device gives you the much sought after freedom to access important data without geographical limitations, and with convenience. That is why the handheld PDA device is very much popular among those who have to spend most time out of the office and carrying a laptop every time is not a possibility. In fact considering some occasions, you will find that a PDA is more useful as it is handy and can be carried in the pocket. A handheld PDA is even more useful with some of its interesting features like handwriting recognition software, which makes using it convenient.

On the other hand, a handheld GPS device offers navigational help and is really handy for outdoor adventure like camping, hiking, mountain biking, etc. Although a handheld GPS device is meant to help you navigate with the help of a satellite, most of them slide down in your pocket and provide you with the essential features, which are useful for more than finding directions. One of the features of the handheld GPS handheld device is the UTM grid data maps or local grid maps. Many of the handheld GPS devices have multi-parallel channels to ensure that several satellites are tracking you at one time rather than just one.


http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Best-Handheld-Devices/129247

Best Stainless Steel Toasters

This article will guide you to the best of the stainless steel toasters and their features. We say, understanding the toasters is as easy as enjoying the crispy toast on the breakfast table. Moreover understanding the toaster will help you in using your toaster in a better way if you already have one or buy the best one if you are going in for a new toaster. In most ways an electric toaster is not a complex device, but if you look at it closely you will find much things happening beneath your toaster cover. All we know is the basic principle of bread getting in the toaster slot, then due to the heating elements the slots get hot, and once the toast is ready the slot pops it out. Lets understand the working of a stainless steel toaster.

In the stainless toaster a rider present in the slot grips the bread. It carries down the bread right into the slot as soon as the toaster’s handle is depressed. To toast the bread, the grates close around to center it and an electromagnet holds the rider down until the timer is triggered. This is how any basic stainless steel toaster works. But to buy the best stainless toaster you should require at some more important and functional areas of the stainless steel toaster. It is better to look for some important features that are very essential while choosing the best from the rest. Features in a stainless steel toaster may vary but some of them are really essential for a hassle free toaster.

Some of the must have features in any stainless steel toaster are listed for your information. Looking at the quantum of toasts you require every morning you can choose from the two slice toaster or the four slice stainless steel toaster. If the toaster offers some extra wide slots then it is much better option to look for. Any stainless steel toaster should be handy when it comes to cleaning. Not only the outer shell but also the crumb tray should be removable for easy cleaning. Many stainless steel toasters offer the defrost function that helps unfreeze the frozen bread. A toaster is not only used for breads but many of you may also use it for toasting bagels, so look for this feature as well. For more flexibility many of the stainless steel toasters also offer reheating of the toast without browning it. In fact some do also have the browning control feature to give you the desired browning on any toast. Many of the toasters also feature self-centering bread racks for even toasting. Another interesting and important feature for the maintenance of the toaster is the toaster cover which keeps the device clean when not in use. Simple but important the cancel switch stops toasting immediately if you wish for it. With all these features, the stainless steel toasters are definite to give you a lasting service and many evenly toasted breads.



http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Best-Stainless-Steel-Toasters/129261

Cordless Power Nail Guns

Nothing beats the conventional hammer when it is about driving a nail. But when it comes to driving hundreds of nails in a day then a hammer seems out of question. This is where the power nail gun comes into picture. A power nail gun is electronic device that is used to drive nails into the given surfaces using a hammer like force. The best part is there are virtually no mishaps as seen with the conventional hammer. In fact using the nail gun you can sink hundreds of nails in a matter of few minutes. That is why a power nail gun is the most popular products among the DIY community as well as the professionals. This article is meant to guide you through the complete details of a cordless power nail gun.

The cordless power nail gun is an effective tool when it comes to reaching really tight corners. Handling of a cordless nail gun gets really easy as there is no cable to hamper the working by getting short or jumbling. A cordless power nail gun takes very small startup time and hence is better if compared to the pneumatic nail gun. Compared to the pneumatic nail gun, the cordless nail gun drives power from a inflammable gas. This gas is drained from a disposable canister attached to the nail gun itself and then is injected into the combustion chamber above the piston. In the next step an electric charge from a battery ignites the gas which then explodes and drives the piston into a movement that is powerful enough to dispense a nail easily. As the tool and power source are self-contained, no cords or hoses are necessary which in turn makes the cordless nail gun really handy. On the power front, the cordless nail guns are as effective and powerful compared to its pneumatic counterpart. And that is why it is popularly used by homeowners and professionals.

But as are the advantages of a cordless power nail gun, so are some disadvantages associated with it. A cordless nail gun needs to be cleaned and maintained more frequently compared to the pneumatic nail gun. This is more so as it burns gas to drive power, which in turn can deposit carbon on the tool. A cordless nail gun cannot be used for a high volume of work. It is due to the restricted working time it allows with respect to its power source. That is why it is always better to use the cordless power nail gun for the low volume jobs. If you are a professional it is advised that you use both the pneumatic nail gun; for high volume jobs and the cordless power nail gun for jobs involving less nails to be driven in tight corners. In all, if the task in hand requires reaching obstructed areas, then a cordless power nail gun is what you should be looking for.


http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Cordless-Power-Nail-Guns/129262

Some Digital Camera Vocabulary Explained

When purchasing a digital camera there is a dazzling array of information about the device available. The digital camera box will have bullet pointed lists of features, and many of those consist of numbers and abbreviations that may be misunderstood. High numbers always seem very impressive, but without knowing what they mean, you may end up purchasing a digital camera that does not match your requirements. Some of the most common abbreviations and the impact they have upon your gadget experience are summarized below.

Many digital camera manufacturers base their advertising campaign and packaging on the number of pixels the camera uses to create its image. Pixels are the elements that make up the digital image. Each pixel is of a single colour, and these join like a mosaic to create the image taken by the device. Pixels are indistinguishable unless the picture is enlarged as they are the smallest element of the digital image. When enlarged they can be seen with the naked eye. PPI stands for pixels per inch, and details the level of detail in the picture. The higher the number: the more intricate the detail.

The number of pixels is displayed in terms of mega pixels (MP), and they are measured by multiplying the number of pixels in the vertical line of the image by the number in the horizontal line. Mega pixels total 1 million pixels, and the number advertised is the maximum number used by the digital camera. Mega pixels affect the size of the photograph rather than the quality, though of course if you want bigger images then a high number of mega pixels are a necessity. A digital camera with 1 MP would produce a quality 5x7 inch digital image. For a quality 8x10 image, a 2MP digital camera would be required, and a 3MP device would be the minimum requirement for images of 11x14 dimensions. There are many other factors that influence the quality of an image, and so mid range mega pixel size should be perfect for the general user.

Another common abbreviation to be found on packaging is JPEG. This stands for the Joint Photographic Experts Group, which was created in 1986 with the aim of setting a universal standard for the compression of digital camera images. They oversee both the file requirements and the compression process for all JPEG digital cameras. The JPEG process compresses images into streams of bytes which are then decompressed back into the image that was taken. A minimal amount of quality is lost in this process, but it remains the most popular file for storage of digital camera images. This is because JPEG images can be full colour or grey scale, and are internet compatible which means that images can be sent via email to friends and family. The JPEG file is photographic specific and so ensures good quality.

MPEG may be seen on your digital camera and this stands for the Moving Pictures Expert Group which oversees video and audio encoding standards. They are responsible for the compression and decompression of video and audio including that of TV broadcast and digital TV networks. If you see MPEG on a digital camera, it means that it can take video clips as well as images.

LCD is the abbreviation for Liquid Crystal Display and refers to the display screen of your device. The LCD will be full colour and will enable you to preview your picture. You can then use the LCD to review the image on your digital camera. The LCD is also where you navigate your device and all its features and settings through the menu button. The LCD panel shows all the relevant information for your digital camera whilst in use, such as battery life, and the number of exposures remaining.


http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Some-Digital-Camera-Vocabulary-Explained/129353