Convergence of Technologies

A student has raised a question: What is convergence?

Convergence has been a hot topic discussed by the technocrats today.

It is difficult to define convergence in a few simple terms. The precise definition involves technical aspects not easy to follow. The following discussion sheds a flood of light on the topic without considering compex issues. It will give you an idea of convergence.

Think about the scientific devices and appliances we have used thus far. Almost each of them is meant for a well-defined, particular use and employs a specific technology.

If you wish to communicate, you use a phone. If you wish to take pictures, you have a camera. To listen to hi-fi music, you have an MP3 player. Each works on a different technology.

Now look at the latest gadgets developed over the last decade. What multiple functions you can perform with your cell-phone! You can communicate, take pictures and also play music on your phone. Your small phone can be used for various functions. Here different technologies are used in a single gadget. This may be called convergence of technologies.

By merging a number of technologies, you can use an appliance or a device for diverse functions. This may be termed as convergence. On a wider scale, if you interconnect different gadgets and operate them from a controlling unit, it may be referred to as convergence.

You have a wrist-watch with a calculator. It is a simple example of convergence. A personal computer can be used as a TV set to watch telecasts. It's convergence. You design a refrigerator with an alarm clock, telephone with speaker and answering machine, MP3 player and FM radio. It's an advanced convergence.

Despite several disadvantages, the convergence is the trend of the day.

In near future, you will have 'Smart-homes' backed by convergence of technologies. A number of gadgets will be interconnected and operated by a remote, wireless controlling unit in your hands. From your office, you will control air-conditioner of your distant house. On your way home in your car, you will switch on the oven so that you get a baked dish when you reach home.

Science and technology has so much to offer to us. Convergence is a great idea with a wide range of applications. Let us use convergence with discretion and make it a great boon for mankind.