pervasive computing

Overview of Pervasive Computing:
  - Pervasive computing introduces concepts relating to pervasive computing and its applications.
  - Experts view it as a significant evolution of computing.
  - Environments utilize objects with processing power and wired/wireless network connections.
  - Notably features invisibility; it is characterized as invisible, everywhere computing.
  - Computing capabilities embed into everyday objects that can be mobile or stationary.
Distinction from Mobile Computing:
- Mobile computing typically refers to devices such as handheld computers, mobile phones, and headsets that users carry, hold, or wear.

Purpose of Unit:
- Introduce the concept and current applications of pervasive computing.

Learning Outcomes:
  - Define pervasive computing.
  - Explain key characteristics and current uses of pervasive computing.
  - Discuss issues and developments related to pervasive computing.

Definition 1 (DFN1):
  - Pervasive computing, also termed as ubiquitous computing, is an emerging trend involving embedding microprocessors in everyday objects to enable communication of information.
  - It refers to the prevalence of computers within common objects, often without users being aware of their presence.
  - Devices communicate collectively over wireless networks without user interaction.
Definition 2 (DFN2):
- Pervasive computing is defined as the use of computerized technology through various devices across various settings continuously.

Key Terms:
- Both ubiquitous and pervasive imply the concept of “existing everywhere.”
Characteristics of Pervasive Systems:
- These systems are consistently available and interconnected.
- Expand beyond desktops into any device, from clothing to kitchen appliances, which may embed microchips for connection to a limitless network.

Technologies Involved:
  1. Micro Electronic Technology:
      - Utilizes small, powerful devices with low energy consumption.
  2. Digital Communication Technology:
      - Provides high bandwidth and data transfer rates at a low cost, enabling worldwide roaming.
  3. Internet Standardization:
      - Achieved through standardization bodies to create an interoperable system. Examples of standardizing bodies include:
        - Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
        - Internet Research Task Force (IRTF)
        - World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)
        - International Telecommunication Union (ITU-T)
        - IoT Acceleration Consortium
        - European Committee for Standardization (CEN/CENELEC)
        - European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI)
Integration of Technologies:
- Wireless communication, consumer electronics, and computer technology converge to form a pervasive computing environment.
- Enhances information access and modern administration even in areas lacking traditional wire-based computing infrastructures.

Advancements in Pervasive Computing:
  - Anticipates development of portable personal assistant devices featuring:
    - High-speed wireless communication
    - Low power consumption
    - Persistent data storage capabilities
    - Compact, coin-sized disk devices
    - Small color displays v aii and functionalities like video and speech processing
  - Features will empower users to communicate and access information globally and in real-time.

Multiple devices can be integrated for multi-purpose uses (e.g., Smart home applications).
Diverse interfaces are utilized to optimize user experience.
Supports concurrent online and offline operations.
Integration of numerous specialized computers via local buses and the internet.
Security measures are implemented to prevent misuse and unauthorized access.
Personalization of functions adjusts to user preferences, minimizing the need for PC knowledge for system operation and management in various contexts (workplace, home, mobile).

Evolving Usage Areas:
  - Retail
  - Airline booking and check-in systems
  - Sales force automation
  - Healthcare environments
  - Tracking systems
  - Vehicle information systems
  - Email access via Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) and voice services
Distinction from Desktop Computing:
- Pervasive computing operates across any device, anywhere, at any time, managing tasks dynamically across networks as users move between locations.
Types of Pervasive Devices:
  - Laptops
  - Notebooks
  - Smartphones
  - Tablets
  - Wearable devices
  - Sensors (e.g., in fleet management, lighting systems, home appliances).

Retail Scenario:
  - Need for rapid and cost-effective methods for product delivery to consumers through the internet.
  - Mobile systems equipped with barcode readers enhance tracking during manufacturing.
  - Consumers can select products through computers; future predictions include using PDAs for item selection in domestic markets.
  - Allowing the sending of shopping lists from devices directly to supermarkets for home delivery.
  - Advantage:
    - Promotes faster data processing and execution of data mining, which uncovers patterns within large data sets to forecast outcomes.

Security Issues:
- Devices and technologies in pervasive computing are not fully secure.
- Their ad hoc integration within networks presents unique security challenges, necessitating the development of trust models.
Additional Disadvantages:
  - Frequent connection disruptions.
  - Slow network connections.
  - High operational costs.
  - Limited host bandwidth and location-dependent data, all contributing to system vulnerabilities.

Utility of Pervasive Computing:
- The unit examined how pervasive computing facilitates access to technology-driven services anytime and anywhere, enhancing user accessibility and functionality.
Upcoming Topics:
- The next unit will explore the concept of Cloud Computing.

Engagement Tasks:
- (a) Identify and list contemporary uses of mobile devices. Consider speaking to individuals in various environments (workplace, community, social interactions).
- (b) Research online to distinguish between ‘Pervasive Computing’ and ‘Ubiquitous Computing’. Examine similarities and differences between the two terms.