Home and Personal Communication SystemsLesson 7 – Personal Connections

StarterUsing Google Earth or Google Maps

(maps.google.co.uk).

Switch to satellite view.

Find all supermarkets in Yarm, note down the first two you find.

Re-search. Find all supermarkets near TS15 9ET. Note down the first four.

ObjectivesUnderstand different personal communication

systems are available.

Know what personal communications connections are available.

Be able to select the most appropriate method of personal communication.

The connections you need to knowWireless (Wi-Fi)

Bluetooth

WiMax

GIS (Geographical Information System)

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)

Geographical Information Systems “A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a collection of

computer hardware, software and geographic data used to

analyse and display geographically referenced information.”

Put simply:

A system which combines a geographical map, along

with additional information, such as:

Facilities in that area.

Buildings / landmarks.

Speed / traffic information

Optimal routes when driving.

Where for art thou GIS: Mobile Phone Applications

Where for art thou GIS: Satellite Navigation

Where for art thou GIS: Google Earth

GIS: Benefits & DrawbacksBenefits Fast access to information. No need to read maps. Instantly know what is around

you (e.g. local pizza shops). Find a wealth of information

about other places (e.g. via Google Earth).

Get directions to a specific location.

Available on a range of devices (Sat Nav, Mobile, PC).

Check if facilities are available in the area (e.g. Broadband availabiltiy).

Drawbacks Requires a GPS signal. Equipment is currently

expensive. Uses a lot of battery power. Can become dependant upon

them (Tom Tom etc). Do not always reflect new

road layouts etc. Can be used inappropriately

(terrorist activity etc). Signal issues in bad weather

(snow, heavy rain etc).

Today’s TaskComplete the GIS information sheet.

Completed, begin answering the exam questions.

Objectives ReviewUnderstand different personal communication

systems are available.

Know what personal communications connections are available.

Be able to select the most appropriate method of personal communication.

PlenaryWhat is a GIS?

Suggest one use of a GIS (see if we can get four).

Suggest a use of GIS’ for the armed services.

Suggest a use of a GIS for an online supermarket who delivers to certain areas.

What are the benefits of a GIS for an average home user?

What are the drawbacks of a GIS for an average home user?