2. Soldiers in the field
Much of mobile technology was originally devised by the military. They have a critical need to communicate at all times, anywhere in the world. This is called 'Command and Control' and mobile technology is part of the mix.
Scenario: A military patrol is out in the desert looking for unexploded land mines. They need to keep in touch with HQ which is several hundred miles away. They have mobiles, laptops and satellite communication equipment.
In order to answer a question based around a scenario such as this you need to break your answer down into sections so you can analyse it efficiently.
1. First of all, write a list of everything that you can think of that they might want to communicate.
Here are some examples (not exhaustive):
a) Report to base by voice and to receive instructions from their commanding officer
b) Send written reports of progress, includes drawings
c) Receive latest maps / plans - so graphics and text need to be received
d) Provide real-time location
e) Send personal messages to family back home
f) Equipment must be able to work in the harsh desert conditions.
2. Secondly, write down the technolgies they have available to them
- Wireless laptops
- Mobile phones
- Sat com equipment
3. Take each point individually from section 1 and think about how they can use the communication technology they have to achieve this.
It is important to think about the pros and the cons.
Here is an example:
What do they want to do? |
a) Report to base by voice and to receive instructions from their commanding officer |
Description |
They are hundreds of miles away in a remote and unpopulated landscape. Therefore a mobile phone is unlikely to be any use since it will likely to be out of range of a mast. Satellite phone is the best option (ignoring any radio systems they will have as well). |
Pros |
The good thing about satellite phones is that they can be used anywhere on the planet no matter how remote. |
Cons |
Satellite phones have a very limited battery life so they need to be careful about how and when they use it. Carrying mobiles is extra weight, but once they are closer to base, they will be able to be used instead of the sat phone. |
What can they do about it? |
Perhaps setting up a specific time of day to contact base and keep conversations short and to the point. |
Then take each of the other points and break them down in a similar way.
challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you
Click on this link: mobile technology for outdoor pursuits