Engineers Without Borders Group Assignment

7/28/2019 Engineers Without Borders Group Assignment

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Engineering Communications: 48230

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - Group Assignment

Task 3a (ii)

Timor Leste: Implementation of a Fibre Optical Network, to

deliver high speed internet, for education purposes to the

village of Codo.

Christopher Earnshaw (11713233), Robert Cohen

(11744428), Raphael Kim (11713334), Nirdosh Khanal

(11724768)

Image showing a demonstration of Light passing through a single fibre strand. University of Adelaide

Image of a typical switch arrangement for Optical Fibres TE Connectivity


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Table of Contents

Project Title & Executive Summary page 3

Problem Definition page 5

Background page 7

Key Considerations page 10

Four Design Options & Proposals

- Optical Fibre to Node Technology page 14- Fibre to Premise Option page 19- GSM (Satellite Data Network) (Firm Ware Dongle) Option page 23- GSM (Satellite Data Network) Option page 26

Recommendation page 29

Conclusion & Summary page 31

Team Reflection page 31

Team Meeting Reports page 32

References page 36


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Project Title & Executive Summary

Timor Leste: Implementation of a Fibre Optical Network, to deliverhigh speed internet, for education purposes to the village of Codo

This report investigates one of the many humanitarian issues associated with the village of Codo,

Timor Leste (East Timor). There is a large deficit of readily available internet infrastructure

whatsoever in this region of the country. This report intends to examine many available options to

be considered for the provision affordable and accessible education via the internet. Research

conducted into the socio-economic aspects of the area of Codo coupled with research into various

internet options display a number of potential infrastructure solutions.

The methods of analysis involved determining suitability of various infrastructure solutions include

optical fibre and other wireless options. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats

(SWOT) will be explored in this report. These options included factors such as cost, logistics and

government policy, currently the government of Timor Leste has planned to improve its

infrastructure across the country by expanding its telecommunication network. However this EWB

report concludes that any form of wireless internet is mainly governed by the lack of appropriate

infrastructure, or government policy restrictions and why these restrictions are evident; therefore,any options must meet this strict criterion.


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In order to effectively integrate a reliable internet infrastructure, we recommend a fibre to node

system, as this is the most cost effective and future proof way to deliver internet and the

accompanying education opportunities this presents. In this report the Group will demonstrate that

this is a viable option.

The limitations concerning this report and the information contains, include but not limited to; no

discernible budget for the proposed project, little available information on the particular area of

Codo, and relatively large absence of technical information and training possessed locally. It should

also be established that this report is only aimed at providing the Infrastructure, not actually

constituting an education specific package, as this will need to be coordinated with the respective

local government department, in order to respect local customs, traditions and teaching styles.

Table showing population demographics in relation to Language UNFPA 2004


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Problem Definition

To instigate the reasoning for our design and project, we must consider as Engineers, who is the end

user? How will this idea or configuration affect them as an individual? or will it affect them as a

collective?, this planning and critical thinking, that is involved in modern day projects is really key to

what we as Engineers must strive toward, Dr Ramaswami, wrote in a focus reading assigned to the

main group; Who owns the project or sets the agenda? Whose knowledge counts in the design?

Who benefits? (Engineering, Social Justice and Community Development, 2010). This quote can

really surmise what the EWB challenge is about. We must strive to be constantly looking at the

bigger picture and consider who will get the most usage out of our idea. We must empower and

tailor make our design around the village of Codos needs, whilst considering and respecting local

needs and values, as well as the main focus of education.

Timor Leste is an under developed country with undeveloped rural areas. The project team

identified the capital of Timor Leste, Dili, to have appropriate internet and communications

infrastructure, it is however, non-existent in the rural Lautm region, where Codo is situated. This

includes good mobile phone reception, but no internet or computers. (Plan Timor Leste EWB

Challenge, 2013)

As a result, education must be obtained by travelling great distances; this can be viewed as a waste

of resources, unnecessary and improper for anyone to endure. In modern times it is becoming

increasingly important to be able to access information anywhere. Computer literacy is almost non-

existent in Codo, with no access to any sort of ICT infrastructure available to residents. There is a

readily available supply of electricity that is currently free (electricity meters have not been fitted to

individuals property which solves a limited number of problems to a certain extent). However, once

the project is fully implemented, internet infrastructure could be costly to run off the local supply

network, so efficiency will be of top priority.

Another concern is that there are no appropriate means to repair electronics in Codo, with no

trained individuals on the subject of electronics repair; "[Jose Marti] believed that education was a

liberating force, because it was only with the opportunities provided by education that People couldrealise their full human potential" (Boughton 2010). If the people of Codo have access to vast


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amounts of information that can only be obtained via internet databases, then they will be able to

access the required information to perform such operations, as well as improve their lives greatly.

Graph showing Employment figures Lautm Census 2010

As a developed country like Australia, we can relate to the ease in which one can search for a

solution or query and then acquire the desired information in seconds. Also, consider the University

of Technology Sydneys online website for example; by shifting education from a physical context to

a virtual format, time and resources can be saved for the students, which could be applied to Codo

as well.

Maslows Hierarchy of needs for human development. A theory of human motivation, 1943


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Background

Timor Leste has been through a recent difficult period. After the 16th

century colonisation by foreign

powers, Timor Leste became part of the Portuguese empire, for which they were shacked to for the

next 500 years. In 1975, growing political unrest resulted in the Portuguese governmentrelinquishing control of its colonies after a military coup of Estado Novo, during the Carnation

Revolution in Portugal. Just nine days later, Indonesian forces crossed the border from West Timor

into East Timor, under the pre-text of anti-colonialism, annexing the country. Bloodless, it was not,

with approximately 100,000 to 180,000 combatants and civilian fatalities during the 25 years until

the end of Indonesian occupation. The resignation of Indonesias president Suharto in May 1997 and

the rise of his Successor, B.J Habibe, compounded with growing international pressures (of note:

John Howards letter) a snap independence vote was called. On the 30th

of August 1999, the polls

were opened and by the 8th of September, it was announced that East Timor would become

autonomous. Indonesia paramilitary troops, enraged, destroyed as much as they could, all over East

Timor. A multinational peacekeeping force, headed by Australia, was sent in to maintain peace and

stability. On the 20th of May 2002, East Timor was officially given independence.

During this time of crisis, most of the infrastructure was destroyed roads and buildings were torn

down whilst water distribution and power transmission networks were all but completely wiped off

the map. Furthermore, hundreds of thousands of Timorese were displaced, either fleeing from the

fighting or being forced into detention camps in West Timor. Malnutrition is also a present problem,

with approximately 23% of the population reported to be malnourished and 85% of the population

relying heavily on subsistence farming (N. Molyneux et al. 2012 p.826), lack of utilities 90% of all

rural homes lacking any access to electricity (M. Bond et al. 2010 p.1), a decrepit water distribution

network and poor sanitation either in complete disrepair or non-existent, leads to more

unnecessary fatalities (L. Palmer 2010 p.361). There is still a lack of readily available educational

institutions, many being destroyed during the withdrawal of Indonesian occupation in 1999 and the

withdrawal of its teachers, mainly being Indonesian (P. Justino et al. 2011 p.9-11).


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Graph showing Human Development Index trends UN Development Program -2013

This, understandably, has taken its toll on many aspects of Timorese society. Timor Lestes HDI

(human development index) show it is far below the regional average in terms of health, economy,

education and income (UN development program 2013).

Graph showing level of education of persons aged 5 years and older - Lautm Census 2010


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With many concerns under consideration, the main issue was where our team should begin to help.

After much discussion, our EWB group made the executive decision that the preeminent solution to

help the people of Codo should be giving them the means to graft a solution for themselves one

that they will be happy with and will, in essence, be their own. This can only be done through

education, essentially broadening their knowledge base.

Graph showing specific private household possessions - Lautm Census 2010

The scope of our proposal seeks to address the education system (According to the 2010 Timor

Leste census, the district of Lautm has a literacy rate of between 40-59.9%, of people aged 15 years

and over) within a rural setting, specifically in Codo Lautm. By creating a viable data

communications network that will primarily be used for educational purposes, this will eliminate the

need for those seeking education from within the village, having to travel long distances to receive it

it will be available in their village. The main languages are Tetum and Portuguese (the two officiallanguages) (Census 2010) so as mentioned previously, this has to be considered when the local


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government who handle education are designing the next phase of implementation (specific

education requirements).

Key Considerations

To proceed, there must be an accurate assessment of the economic, social, political, local language

and environmental situation of Codo our EWB project destination. The following sections seek to

address these aspects in a brief and relevant manner;

The Lautm District UNFPA 2004

Telecommunications

Our proposal requires the availability of telecommunications utilities and existing services that can

be adapted through various media converters. The cabling itself can either be through some kind of

overland wired method, for example using optical fibre (or perhaps existing telephone wire), or

through a wireless method, for example GSM. Timor Telecomm offers such a service (Timor

Telecom, 2012) and recently there are plans for two other telecommunications companies to enter

the market.


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Education

The situation in Codo, in regards to the availability of education, has been steadily improving since

the dip that proceeded the period of strife in 1999. The literacy rate have been increasing for every

demographic in the country. However, these benefits have been aimed at urban centres; whilst rural

areas have been largely neglected. This leaves isolated communities without any local schooling

facilities. These villagers are left with a difficult choice; leave their homes for a week to attend school

leaving their families short-handed for domestic activities, or to stay home and help their families

survive within the harsh reality of subsistence living, which most of the population engage in. This

then hinders any chance of progressing themselves and developing into a more stable community.

Map showing the levels of adult literacy rates for persons 15 years and above - Lautm Census 2010

Map showing net enrolment ration in primary schools - Lautm Census 2010


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Graph showing participation rate of school children ages 5-10 years old Lautm District - Lautm Census 2010

Environment

Manmade disasters are not the only obstacles standing in the way of progress, nature also plays a

part. Timor Leste careens violently between extremes, from violent thunderstorms, tornadoes and

hurricanes, earthquakes and landslides. Although the calmer periods have been described as

pleasant, the weather is unpredictable and can turn violent. The West Pacific Monsoon, generally,

drastically alters the climate from dry to extremely wet (ICCAI p8). This destructive weather and

temperamental topography creates the need for any proposed solution to take that into

consideration, fortunately there are various options to counter such climes.

Graph showing weather conditions of Lautm Climate Change Seeds of life 2012

Energy sources

The availability of energy is a major issue, with most rural villages unable to gain access to the

electrical distribution network; instead, using petrol powered generators. This is an environmentally

unsound and costly endeavour, as petrol must be continuously utilised. There are several other

methods that one could go use. For example, in 2008, the UN conducted a pilot program within

Timor Leste that expounds the validity of using solar power as a source of power (UN 2008).


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Map showing private household of renewable energy - Lautm Census 2010

However, this is a non-issue, as Codo was recently connected to the electrical supply network. (EWB

Challenge, 2013). With this fact under consideration, the average income of Timor Leste, according

the AUSaid, (the Australian Government overseas aid agency), has indicated that 47% of Timor Leste

population is below the national poverty line of $0.88 a day. This poses and uncomfortable dilemma,

should we incorporate the local power supply into our project scope or should we implement a free

and renewable source through solar panels.

Cost of operation and maintenance

There are several key aspects that need to be addressed for any recommendation to be deemed

viable. An analysis of the costs and benefits must be completed. We must consider transportation,

technician support/training, the equipment costs and overhead maintenance costs and the cost of

labour. As of now popular energy sources are either diesel powered generators, solar-power or grid

connected electricity. Of these, solar-power has been noted as being a viable substitute for grid-

connection. It is relatively cheap, readily available, there are already technicians within the region

familiar with PV installation (according to the latest Census, approximately 20-40% of households in

great Lautm are connected to solar-power, electricity or biofuels assuming this is distributed

evenly). The costs and overall materials selection will be covered in the four design options &

proposals section.


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Typical example of how a solar system works How stuff works 2012

Internet Access

There is only one ISP (Internet Service Provider) in East Timor; Timor Telecom. Two-way Satellite

Internet is potentially an option, as the country is technically considered to be inside the Australian

and Asian footprints of satellites offering GSM technology, however in practice trade licenses are not

permitted for the use of non-East Timorese Telecom companies. Internet services are constrained to

locations with a landline service, or dedicated line infrastructure, also Internet access through

mobiles is possible in Timor Leste which is another service provided by Timor Telecom, 0.9% of total

population uses the internet (UN 2013)

Four Design Options & Proposals

Optical Fibre to Node Technology Option

Materials

Assuming that OLPC-xo3 prices; $100 per computer. Otherwise, donated equipment will do.

Several 500m drums of OM3/6 optical fibre cable (10Gbase-LR) will be required for the actual

cabling. Something synonymous with single (mono-mode) optical fibre however, need accurate

splicing equipment, but is useful for installations of up to 160km, with 2km segments (Dean T,2010,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_Internethttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_Internethttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_Internethttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_Internet


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cengauge learning, network+ guide to networking, 5th edition, USA, cengauge learning p25). So this

will have to be considered as well.

Image of a cross section of a typical Optical Fibre Cable MSS Fibre Systems - 2013

Otherwise, Multi-mode:low cost, cant be cut and spliced using hand tools, and is available in

plastic or glass. The maximum distance is typically 200m while the maximum data rate is 100Mbit/s

(Introduction to Local Area Networks Module resource manual, 17 Sept 2002, p22.)Of course,

newer technology has pushed this limitation to approximately 10G.

From a centralised node within the village, geographical centre perhaps, a radial or star wiring

scheme topography. Optical Fibre to Nodal Technology operates by utilising less optical fibre cable

than a conventional fibre to premise alternatives and directing data traffic through an antenna to

cover a wide area through wireless internet. Through the use of wireless transmitters and frequency

control, an area the size of Codo in Timor Leste could potentially be covered for internet access, over

the option of the connection of a local school or single building to the optical fibre transmission

cable. A Typical multi-wavelength fibre wireless system that utilises nodal technology will be less

material intensive and quicker to install than the Fibre to premise option. Below are tables that draw

comparisons of Optical Fibre over obsolete copper cabling;


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Tables showing the comparison of Copper Technology over Optical Fiber Warren & Brown 2013


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Equipment to be sourced for the installation will be as follows;

- Fibre Splicing Set and joint cooker- Fixings and installation equipment with associated hand tools- Antenna mast or tower with option for housings for any termination or joints and routing

equipment.

- Nodal equipment and associated transmission equipment.- Solar panels with mini inverter to provide basic power for the antenna and routing switches.- Earth moving equipment to lay trenches and backfill- Demountable to store equipment as well as plinth for sensitive routing equipment.- Computers to be used for the actual delivery of the education system.

Image of a typical Fibre Node Transmitter Gauntlet Media - 2013

Cost

With the costs of the associated equipment above, the other points to be noted would be the actual

cost of electricity. The way to minimise expenditure for the locals and for the project would be to

use mini solar panels and mini inverters that can be acquired for around $500 Australian and would

suit our needs for each location, as the power used for transmission, the computers and any other

sources can be overcome by utilisation of these measures.

Another Factor is the labour cost of implementation, we would require semi-skilled workers who

possessed the knowledge of earth moving equipment and who held licenses applicable for the earth

moving equipment. The rest of the actual installation would be split between the project team,

volunteers and the people that represent the local government department that would be

maintaining the actual equipment.


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SWOT Analysis

Strengths

Optical Fibre to nodal technology possesses a number of benefits from a technical standpoint, they

would be; It can support a wide range of last-mile technologies by hybrid combinations such as

fibre-twisted pair, fibre-coax, and fibre-wireless. By means of adjustable wavelength routing

techniques, the fibre feeder part of such hybrid networks can flexibly accommodate different

operators and service categories. With dynamically adjustable wavelength routing, capacity-on-

demand that can be realised for efficient management of fluctuating traffic patterns, while

respecting quality-of-service requirement [Koonen, 2007]

Weaknesses

Potential weaknesses associated with the use of this equipment, is the limited amount of data bit

transfer rate and the nominal transmission frequency. Meaning that to get a suitable connection

from a location inside a building would have to be situated fairly close if not within a certain range of

the nodes to actually receive a decent signal. However with that being said, information associated

with education would not actually take up a great deal of bit package space on the wavelength.

Opportunities

The opportunities to be derived from the use of Optical Fibre to Nodal Technology would be the

ease of access opened up to the whole village of Codo over the fibre to premise option. Therefore as

the village develops the locals can get access to the internet for a vast array of potential knowledge

such as; cultivation advice, weather patterns for agriculture, medical advice and tourism, to name a

few.

Threats

The potential threats that could be encountered in the project would be vandalism of the system,

extreme weather conditions, potential for civil unrest with the geopolitical scene. And the failure of

the locals to actually use the potential of education and opportunity brought about by the

implementation of this system.


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Optical Fibre to Premise Option

This type of data distribution network relies on the propagation of light through a medium by the

process known as total internal refraction. This light is then converted into electronic data, which is

then interpreted through the requisite computational equipment and software to finally convey that

data to its intended target. This particular form of data communication requires a physical

connection through-out. Essentially being the same as Fibre to Nodal technology, without the need

for a transmitter, seen as the fibre is terminated into a central switch dedicated for the computer

terminal.

Image demonstrating exactly how Optical Fibre to Premise Works thinkbroadband.com - 2012

Materials

Again assuming that OLPC-xo3 prices; $100 per computer. Otherwise, donated equipment will

suffice.

And again assuming several 500m drums of OM3/6 optical fibre cable (10Gbase-LR) will be required

for the actual cabling. Something synonymous with single (monomode) optical fibre however,

need accurate splicing equipment, but is useful for installations of up to 160km, with 2km segments

(Dean T,2010, cengauge learning, network+ guide to networking, 5th edition, USA, cengauge learning

p25). So this will have to be considered as well.

Otherwise, Multi-mode:Low cost, cant be cut and spliced using hand tools, and is available in

plastic or glass. The maximum distance is typically 200m while the maximum data rate is 100Mbit/s


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(Introduction to Local Area Networks Module resource manual, 17 Sept 2002, p22.) Of course, newer

technology has pushed this limitation to approximately 10G.

10GBASE-LR ("long reach") is a port type for single-mode fibre and uses 1310 nm lasers. Its Physical

Coding Sub layer64b/66b PCS is defined in IEEE 802.3 Clause 49 and its Physical Medium Dependent

PMD in Clause 52. It delivers serialised data at a line rate of 10.3125 Gbit/s

(thenetworkencyclopedia)

Depending on the topography and materials available, for example, the cheaper option would be to

employ multimode fibre, which allows splicing by hand and is less susceptible to interference.

However, it is limited to a maximum distance of 200m. On the other hand;

The cable needs to be shielded/sheafed within a protective layer, so appropriate housings need to

be considered for protecting the cable. Optical cable repeaters/regenerators: used to extend the

distance of the optical data network, by boosting the signal and retransmitting it. This Method also

converts optical to electronic signal, amplifies that signal then retransmits it as an optical signal.

Image of an underground enclosed Optical Fibre cable Fibreoptics4sale.com

In essence the need for repeaters will need to be accessed as the network is being constructed

generally if signal loss, exceeds 12.5%, or if the signal losses make an on-state indistinguishable from

an off-state.

Portable computer terminals with the requisite software (depending on the framing used, if it is

synchronous or asynchronous and which protocol is its running) must be counted as materials

needed to measure this.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Coding_Sublayerhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Coding_Sublayerhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Medium_Dependenthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Medium_Dependenthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Coding_Sublayerhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Coding_Sublayer


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Again the same equipment for Optical fibre projects are the same so the equipment to be sourced

for the installation will be as follows;

- Fibre Splicing Set and joint cooker- Fixings and installation equipment with associated hand tools- Antenna mast or tower with option for housings for any termination or joints and routing

equipment.

- Nodal equipment and associated transmission equipment.- Solar panels with mini inverter to provide basic power for the antenna and routing switches.- Earth moving equipment to lay trenches and backfill- Demountable to store equipment as well as plinth for sensitive routing equipment.- Computers to be used for the actual delivery of the education system.

Costs/Budget


suffice.

Logistical cost including electricity, labour and any other associated costs are a factor to be

explored. If the researched data is any indication, then a wage of between $1.25 - $0.88 per day may

have to be taken under consideration as well, which will be applied to the costs of installation aswell, as there may not be access to any volunteer labour. Noting the fact that 41% of the population

is below the national poverty line of $0.88 per day, it would be prudent to establish a sensible

estimate of the costs beforehand. Another aspect to be established before any commencement of

works, would be the usage of solar power for energy, this will eliminate the need to pay for

electricity, beyond the initial setup costs (which could also be subsidised).

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

By having the fibre optic cable run straight into the premises, without it being either spliced into a

copper wire, such as co-axial or twisted-pair, it allows higher data transfer rates at longer distances.

In addition, because fire-optics works on the properties of light, it is much more resilient to

electromagnetic interference in a nutshell, more stable.


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Weaknesses

This method of data transmission is quiet expensive, as it requires that each user have a physical

connection to network. This means that an optical-fibre needs to be run from the central hub to

each premise.

This would also mean the cabling itself would be a detriment, in that theyll have a much larger

physical presence within the village. This may lead to increased safety hazards or result in the cables

becoming damaged. In addition, this course of action will also inflate material cost/requirements

and labour, as a catenary system would need to be employed, or the cabling will need to be put

underground.

Opportunities

Again this will be the start of greater things, as fast reliable connection to the outside world through

the World Wide Web leads to the availability of information that may help those who need it. A

reliable, cheap and relatively fast data network within the region may attract businesses and

development.

Furthermore, access to information, through internet access, may bring about the application of a

plethora of new ideas that could benefit the locals within Codo. However, this will only take effect

after training and education.

Threats

This option is economically intensive. Some might even call it an ostentatious luxury when contrast it

against the complete and utter destitution of the surrounding area. But we are confident that these

opinions can be reversed into seeing the vast array of potential to be derived from this project.


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GSM (Satellite Data Network) (Firm Ware Dongle) Option

Image of a Satellite GMAT UNSW.edu.au - 2012

Materials


suffice.

Wireless network options

Using a satellite connection for internet can be a viable solution to the problem of a deficit in

infrastructure. Satellites function as a wireless repeater using microwaves to transmit data. The

coverage on land, known as a foot print is quite large due to the high altitudes at which the satellites

orbit. This means that natural barriers such as mountains and the curvature of earth will not be an

issue when transmitting. Traditionally satellites were used for television and telephone operations,

but now they are used extensively for data transmission. Compared to fibre or cable internet

connections, there is a long transmission delay, typically 700ms.

Although for most purposes this is acceptable. This however could potentially be a problem, for the

people of Codo. The received microwave power is very low, only in the range of a few hundred Pico

watts. For the earth station, a parabolic dish and a low noise amplifier is required. Interference due

to rain is a major problem in the higher transmission bands; however the equipment to suit the

higher bands is also cheaper.


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How a Satellite actually works How stuff works - 2012

The uplink is highly directional compared to the downlink footprint that was mentioned earlier,

meaning that the parabolic dish, or aperture, must be aimed precisely in the correct direction. A spot

beam can be used, whereby the satellite concentrates the footprint to a smaller area. This enables

cheaper equipment to be used. There are three types of satellite, Low earth orbit, Medium earth

orbit, and geostationary orbit. The last is the most reliable and offers the largest footprint. Also, by

remaining geostationary for 24 hours, the end user doesnt have to wait for a pass of the satellite.

Some Australian satellite coverage reaches Timor Leste, as well as various Asian Satellite providers.

Presently however, satellite internet is technically feasible, the Timor Leste Government does not

allow satellite internet to be provided by outside providers. No licenses will be issued, meaning that

this option is not available unless there is a policy change made by the government to allow satellite

connections based on humanitarian causes.


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SWOT Analysis

Strengths

Due to the nature of satellite technology, it is very accessible in terms of data transmission. Not

hampered by physical obstacles and earth stations may be powered by solar, meaning it is

impeccable for remote locations.

When using a geostationary earth orbit satellite, internet access is available 24 hours a day.

Relatively fast data transfer speed are available, typically 14Mbps Downlink, and 3Mbps Uplink.

Weaknesses

Rain interference in the higher microwave bands, lower band equipment has a higher cost. The cost

for even the cheapest set up, for just the transmitting/receiving hardware is economically unviable.

Installation is another cost, as technical staff would need to be brought in to make repairs.

Opportunities

By having access to satellite internet, there is less demand for cabling and other means of data

transmission, as there would be only one dish situated on the local school or educational building.

Threats

As mention above, the Timor Leste Telecom authority will not issues licenses for outside provision of

satellite internet, meaning this option is not possible. In Timor Leste, Wimax and GPRS internet is not

available. However 3G internet is, Timor Telecom offers data and hardware to support for 3G, but

this is not viable for educational and large information downloads.


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Image showing the composition of a Satellite How stuff works - 2012

GSM (Satellite Data Network) Option

Materials


suffice.

Generally the satellite data network relies on three components which are as follows:

- A satellite in geostationary orbit- A number of ground stations known as gateways that relay internet data to and from the

satellite via radio waves located at the subscribers premises.

- And a very small aperture terminal dish antenna with a transceiver.


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The image below graphically shows how this set up would work;

Image showing how a typical satellite system works How stuff works - 2012

Materials

For the purposes of this project, the indoor unit which is principally a single box satellite internet

modem gets connected to the end users computer equipment. In this case it would have to be

determined where the computer is to be housed within the village of Codo, as not to interfere with

any transmission or slowing of the download data speed.

Example of a satellite modem Direct Media - 2009

Example of Satellite Dish NBNco.com.au -2010


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Assuming that OLPC-xo3 prices; $100 per computer. Otherwise, donated equipment will suffice.

Charging stations that need to be utilised, as mentioned in previous design options, would be

achieved by the utilisation of solar technology. Specifically mini solar panels and mini inverters that

can be acquired for around $500 Australian and would suit our needs for each location, as the power

used for transmission, the computers and any other sources can be overcome by utilisation of these

measures.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The system does not require a dedicated telephone wire. That means that, those villagers who live inareas that do not have access to cable or DSL will benefit, which is ideal for villages like Codo. Other

important strengths are listed below;

- Reliable- Global coverage- Cost effective- Simplicity instant installation and deployment- High speed coverage, it has the ability to be faster compared to dial-up and other basic

forms of internet present in Codo

Weaknesses

Slow speeds are the biggest disadvantage associated with satellite Internet. The signal must reach

the satellite almost 22,000 miles away in the stratosphere and return back to earth with the

requested data. The delay that results can makes it run slower than other high tech Internet

connection methods. Other Internet consumptions such as voice chat or VoIP telephone service may

not function properly as well, which could be key in the educational delivery of material. Other

factors include items such as;

- Weather always has negative impact on satellite based internet. When the weather iscloudy, rainy, windy and snowy then the signal can be lost, leaving the user without internet.

- Cost, it is again economically unviable compared with other broadband services because itcosts more for the Internet service provider (ISP) to deliver the signal to the computer from

space.

- Its slower than broadband or cable


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Opportunities

Internet plays a vital role in any education sector. Again as mentioned in the previous sections, it

improves communications and offers access to opportunities in health, education and education,

and a vast array of benefits to the local community.

Threats

There is always a possibility of misuse of internet. And also the risk of hackers hacking the system is

tremendous, thus the solution for this particular problem has to be taken under consideration. Use

of some sort of anti-virus detection within the system would be a solution.

Recommendation

Optical Fibre to Node Technology

Point-to-point architecture, where individual fibers run from the local exchange to each home.

Many fibers are needed, which entails high first installation costs, but also provides the ultimate

capacity and the most flexibility to upgrade services for customers individually. Active star

architecture, where a single fiber carries all traffic to an active node close to the end users, from

where individual fibers run to each cabinet/home/building/location. Only a single feeder fiber is

needed, and a number of short branching fibers to the end users, which reduces costs; but the active

node needs powering and maintenance.[Koonen, Ton 2006]

From all the information gathered due to research and enquiry presented in the report, the groupsthought process was strongly in support for the use of Optical Fibre to Node Technology, Due to the

ease of installation and the less funding intensive benefits the project could revel in.

Image of the cross sectional area and make-up of a typical optical fibre cable MSS Fibre Systems 2013


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How the Optical Fibers are long, thin strands made from pure glass which has the same diameter as

a human hair. The Fibers are organized into bundles called optical cables and used to transmit light

signals over extended distances.

An optical Fiber cable constitutes the following:

- The Core Which is a the glass centre of the fiber where the light travels- The Cladding An outer optical material that surrounds the core and mirrors the light signal,

which is then is transmitted back into the glass core

- The Aramid Yarns a material that surrounds the cladding and acts as additional protection- The Buffer Jacket (inner) A plastic coating that protects the cable members from any

impairment and moisture

Hundreds or thousands of these optical fiber members can be prepared in bundles of the optical

fiber cables. The bundles are secured and given rigidity by the central Strength Member.

Typical demonstration of how an Optical Fibre cable New world Encyclopaedia - 2005

How the selected system works is that a fixed wireless access solution (a Node) will be able to

wirelessly bridge the gap to the terminal or end user, this is achieved by the emission of a wireless

frequency of Radio waves that the node will transmit. Various receivers can be utilised by the

villagers or localised PCs to be able to access the network. However, the reduced spread of Optical

Fibre to Node Technology frequently requires an additional saturation of the fibres in the access

feeder links, potentially constituting to hybrid fiber access possibly with a combination of receivers.


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Conclusion & Summary

To surmise our findings we have explored the potential of this system to deliver the projects needs.

We are confident that when this system gets implemented, the local villagers of Codo will be able to

become more self-sufficient and become more educated, lifting themselves from poverty. Education

should be available to anyone who seeks it and through this challenge we have grafted a way for the

most under privileged people to accomplish this. The Project is fraught with potential complications

like any new technology as it has recently progressed from experimental to a vast commercial

enterprise virtually overnight. But War or civil conflicts, which arouse anger, suspicion, and distrust,

pose additional challenges (Engineering, Social Justice and Community Development, 2010) and we

as engineers must try to correct the detrimental setbacks that this country has faced.

Team Reflection

Engineering Communications an important subject, without the means of effective communication,

ideas and concepts remain locked away in the individual, with little or no hope of making it to the

outside world and industry peers. Through this assignment and its associated tasks and activities, the

group, has learned skills that will help us through our respective Engineering streams. At the

beginning of the subject, students were assigned tasks to enhance research and report writing skills

as well as summaries. After a period of time the main group was divided into smaller groups, Our

EWB Group have learned to cooperate as friends and colleagues, After being charged with the EWB

task, we worked together tirelessly to establish a solution to a specific problem, the lack of reliable

internet in a place such as Codo, and the great effort required to attend school. With that being

taken into consideration, we deduced a plan to combine these two issues and synergize one simple

Engineering solution: education delivered via provision of a reliable internet service. The team all

agreed that was a good cause, with education and the information superhighway only seconds,

instead of days away, from the people of Codo, would have an extraordinary resource at their

fingertips. Our mind set was that with this resource, the people of Codo will have the means to

design and implement their own toilet for example. Local will be able to access the same

information as the rest of the world, and this will foster a creative and innovative environment.

Shortly after our group was formed, we all had to complete the Belbin test, whereby individual

personality types were established. From an individual perspective, this was found to be a usefultool when the times came to assign tasks. We diligently made an effort to reduce the effect that

negative actions and thinking could have had on our team and the work it produced. Collectively, we

all came from different Engineering streams and have each brought skills and expertise that has

fostered an innovative and forward thinking group. This has been an incredible opportunity for us to

showcase what we are capable of as a team, and as an individual.


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EWB Challenge Team Meeting Report

The Codo Four

Date:

11/4/13

Members Present:

Nirdosh Khanal, Chris Earnshaw, Raphael Kim, Rob Cohen

Members Absent:

None absent

Summary of meeting:

Initial outline Discussion, including the scope of the project and the roles each member will carry

out. Team charter completed including ground rules and meeting arrangements. Contact details

exchanged.

Tasks to be completed by members

What? Who? By when?

Distribution of material Chris Next meeting

Materials research, logistics Raphael, Nirdosh Next meeting

Review of next task, outline

specific requirements

Rob Next meeting

Next meeting to be held on 30/4/13


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The Codo Four

Date:

16/5/13

Members Present:


Members Absent:

None absent

Summary of meeting:

Preparation for final report completion. Determining what needs to be completed. Presentation

discussed, no concrete strategy established.

Task to be completed by members

Each member is to research and write up a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and

Threats) report on 1 solution which will be added into the report for the next meeting.

Next meeting on 21/5/13


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The Codo Four

Date:

21/5/13

Members Present:


Members Absent:

None absent

Summary of meeting:

Consolidating information from prior tasks. Nirdosh and Rob failed to complete the assigned task on

time, Should be completed by the next meeting.


What? Who? By when?

Complete prior task, write up

group meetings

Rob Next meeting

Complete prior task Nirdosh Next meeting

Next meeting to be held on 29/5/13


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The Codo Four

Date:

29/5/13 FINAL MEETING

Members Present:


Members Absent:

None absent

Summary of meeting:

Finalisation and editing of the report, finalisation of presentation, practice presentation.


What? Who? By when?

Complete prior task, write up

group meetings

Rob N/A

Complete prior task Nirdosh N/A

Next meeting to be held on Presentation and assignment due day on

30/05/13


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3aTLS>

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58&lang=en

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8) J. A. Simons, D.B. Irwin, B.A. Drinnien, 1987, Psychology - The Search for Understanding, WestPublishing Company, New York.

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Pp.8-9.

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14)M. Bond, L.L Aye, R.J Fuller, 2010, Solar Lanterns or solar home lighting systems communitypreferences in East Timor, Renewable Energy: An International Journal, Vol. 35 Issue 5,

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fali/download-suco-reports/lautem-suco-reports/.

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22)United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Timor-Leste Country Profile: HumanDevelopment Indicators, viewed 27 March 2013,

http://hdrstats.undp.org/en/countries/profiles/TLS.html

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26)Introduction to the satellite internet viewed 21 may 2013

http://www.satelliteinsight.com/ghana-satellite-internet.html

27)P. Streeten, 1981, First Things First: Meeting Basic Human Needs in the Developing Countries,international bank for reconstruction and development / The World Bank, Washington DC.

Pp.8-9.

28)Solar Panel information, image acquisition and sales, viewed on 21 may 2013http://www.solarchoice.net.au/blog/enecsys-micro-inverters-australia/

29)Micro inverter information, image acquisition and sales, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.australianmicroinverters.com.au/

30)Electronics and image acquisition, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=ZM9018

31)How Things work Physics and Explanations of the world around us, and image acquisition,viewed on 28 may 2013

http://www.howstuffworks.com

32)Broadband and Internet Information and image acquisition, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.thinkbroadband.com

33)Optical fibre Information and image acquisition, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.nbnco.com.au

34)Optical fibre Information and image acquisition, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.fibreoptics4sale.com

35)Optical fibre Information and image acquisition, viewed on 28 may 2013http://www.te.com

Engineers Without Borders Group Assignment

Documents