Tricorders that help observe, learn and discover
http://www.tricorderproject.org/index.html
Remember the tricorders used in Star Trek? A tricorder is a multi-function, handheld device used for sensor scanning, data analysis and recording data. With advancements in embedded systems and sensors, tricorders are becoming more of a reality. In fact, there are even contests such as Qualcomm’s X-Prize that encourage engineers to make feature-packed tricorders. One such tricorder enthusiast, Dr Peter Jansen, has come up with a series of open source science tricorders code-named Mark. The tricorders provide a profound understanding of our environment by capturing varied information like temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, ambient Jansen speaks of how a tricorder can bring about positive change by offering a variety of information: “It's possible that the same instrument that can show a child how much chlorophyll a leaf has could also show how much pollution is in the air around us, or that’s given off by one’s car… If people could easily discover how their lifestyles impact the environment, they would then make positive lifestyle choices to reduce emissions, for instance. By having access to general tools, people can learn about leaves, air, clouds,
or houses — or even light, magnetism, temperature — or anything the tricorder can help them see.”
The open twist: Dr Jansen’s tricorder project is completely open source. People can link it up with other systems and applications to access much more information, do deeper analysis, and use it for learning, experimentation or product development. The latest complete version is the Science Tricorder Mark 2. It runs Linux, and has a number of connectivity and development options. It comprises a suite of atmospheric, electromagnetic and spatial sensors. The upgradeable and self- contained sensor boards have separate processors and use an open sensor protocol. Other tech specifications include: Atmel AT91RM9200 ( ARM920T 32- bit RISC core/ 180 MHz) processor, dual 7.11 cm ( 2.8") OLED touch displays, Debian Linux, USB host/ device and SD card storage. While Mark 3 was abandoned mid- way, Mark 4 is now getting ready – it has been fabricated already and software development is in progress. The goal for the Mark 4 is to bring down the cost and make it more accessible to all.