PULSE November '24 edition

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PULSE

PULSE

PULSE is the official magazine of the ECE Association, in which students showcase their creativity in various aspects. Each edition of the Magazine is themed and this 8th edition of the magazine is focused on the theme DIGITAL RENAISSANCE.

Thiruvikesh B

THE TEAM

Office Bearers

Esakki Rangaraj R

Anuvidhya S

Editorial Board

Pragatheesh A P

Content

Ravikrishna B

Sanjay C

Ebhin Johnson J

Sindhu S U

Shivva Reema

Monish V R

Bharani P Shanmugananthi S

Editing

Nicole Vinne Raj S

Photography & Artwork

Karpagam S S

Design

Balaganesh R N

Vandana V

Sandhiya S

Dheepikha V

THIS EDITION OF PULSE WAS RELEASED ALONGSIDE

RESONANCE’25

SPONSORS

RESONANCE is an intra-college symposium conducted to explore the electronics and communication domain. It enables freshers to interact among themselves and their seniors. This fest engages the students in technical and non-technical events while organising several informative workshops.

ELECTRONICS REDEFINED:

18

TELESURGERIES

CYBER

HAPTIC TECHNOLOGY

SILK ROAD : DARK WEB

QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY

CYBERTHREATS

Ai in Arts

- Pavithra G, 2nd Year

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the creative landscape, reshaping how artists produce and interact with art. Once perceived as a human-exclusive domain, the arts now see an increasing role of AI in expanding the boundaries of creativity. From generating visual art to composing music and writing poetry, AI’s presence in the arts challenges traditional notions of authorship and the creative process, raising questions and opening new avenues for innovation.

The Role of AI in Visual Arts

One of the most significant areas where AI has made an impact is visual art. Algorithms such as Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) are capable of producing compelling images, sometimes indistinguishable from works by human artists. AI programs like DeepArt, Artbreeder, and DALL·E allow users to input certain parameters or datasets, which the AI then uses to create a unique piece of art. These tools do not replicate existing works; Instead, they generate original images based on patterns learned from large datasets.

AI-generated artworks have been sold at major auction houses. This raises questions about the authorship of AI-generated works—are they truly “art” in the traditional sense?

Who should be credited, the algorithm, the programmer, or the data contributors?

AI in Music Composition and Performance

AI’s influence extends beyond visual arts to the world of music. AI-powered programs like AIVA (Artificial Intelligence Virtual Artist) and OpenAI’s MuseNet can compose entire musical pieces in a range of genres and styles. These tools analyze vast amounts of existing music to create new compositions that mimic the style of human musicians.

AI is also influencing music production by assisting in sound design, mixing, and mastering. AI algorithms can suggest chord progressions, generate melodies, and even create entirely new instruments through virtual synthesis. Musicians are increasingly collaborating with AI as a creative partner, exploring new sounds, patterns, and compositions that they may not have considered independently.

AI-Generated Literature and Poetry

In the realm of written arts, AI is proving capable of generating poems, short stories, and even fulllength novels. Language models like GPT-3 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3)

and its successors can generate coherent, creative, and profound pieces of writing by analysing and learning from vast libraries of literature to create original content that adheres to various linguistic and stylistic patterns.

AI-generated literature often walks a fine line between mimicry and creativity. While AI can craft intricate narratives, many argue that it lacks the emotional depth and insight that human writers bring to their work. Nevertheless, AI is becoming an important tool for writers, helping them overcome writer’s block, generate ideas, or explore alternatives.

Collaborative Creativity: Humans and AI

AI’s role in the arts brings forth potential for collaboration between humans and machines. Rather than replacing human creativity, AI can augment it, providing artists with new tools and perspectives. Artists and designers can use AI as a medium, combining their creativity with the computational power of AI to push the boundaries of their craft.

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Additionally, as AI becomes more proficient in creating art, there is concern that it may diminish the value of human-made art, making it harder for emerging artists to stand out in an increasingly AI-driven market.

The Future of AI in the Arts

For example, Google’s DeepDream uses neural networks to manipulate images, creating surreal, dream-like visuals. Artists have adopted DeepDream as a tool for exploring abstract art, enhancing their creative processes. Musicians, too, are using AI to co-compose music, blending AI-generated melodies with their own compositions.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

While AI offers incredible opportunities in the arts, it also raises ethical concerns. The most pressing issue is the question of authorship and intellectual property. Who owns an artwork created by an AI algorithm? Is it the artist who provided the dataset, the programmer who wrote the algorithm, or the machine itself? These questions are still being debated, and the legal frameworks for AI-generated works remain unclear.

Another concern is the potential for AI to homogenize creativity. Since AI learns from existing works, there is a risk that it may replicate or reinforce existing trends and biases, limiting the diversity of artistic expression.

Despite these challenges, the future of AI in the arts looks promising. AI has already expanded the horizons of what is possible in creative expression, offering artists new tools and techniques to explore. As AI continues to evolve, it is likely to become an even more integral part of the creative process, enabling new forms of collaboration between humans and machines.

Inconclusion, AI’s role in arts is both transformative and complex. It challenges traditional concepts of creativity and authorship while providing artists with new opportunities for innovation. The intersection of AI and art is still in its early stages, but it is clear that AI will continue to shape the future of creative expression in ways that are both exciting and unpredictable.

PRACTICAL EFFECTS

Imaginewatching a massive jet crash into a building—not a digital creation, but a real plane, crashing for real. That’s exactly what director Christopher Nolan did in Tenet. While many filmmakers would rely on computer-generated imagery (CGI) to pull off such a stunt, Nolan chose practical effects for the raw, authentic feel. But in the world of modern cinema, CGI has become just as essential, allowing filmmakers to create entire galaxies, and scenes that defy the laws of physics. Think of explosive battles in Avengers: Endgame—all made possible by the power of CGI.So, what makes filmmakers choose one over the other? And why do some still crash real planes when CGI could do the job? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Practical Effects vs CGI, exploring the craft, the technology, and the stories behind the magic of modern filmmaking.

Creating physical effects in actual settings is known as practical effects, or special effects (SFX). This covers everything from intricate set designs and stunts to animatronics, prosthetic makeup, live explosions, and model miniatures. The method heavily relies on physical craftsmanship: stunt coordinators, set designers, and artists who work together to create these effects.

How it is done:

Practical effects involve creating real, physical elements on set. Whether it’s a car crash, an explosion, or an animatronic creature, these effects are captured live. The process begins in pre-production, where designers and technicians build the necessary models or prepare stunts. What you see on screen is often what actually happened in front of the camera, with only minimal digital enhancement added later. This gives practical effects their authentic, grounded feel.

Advantages and disadvantages:

Practical effects excel in generating a sense of realism, since actual objects and settings organically interact with light and performers, grounding scenes in authenticity. When given physical props to work with, actors perform better and the roles become more believable. But because such stunts need a lot of preparation and safety precautions, practical effects are expensive and dangerous. Additionally, they are limited in their ability to show fantastical features, such as large-scale war scenes or mythological animals.

In Mad Max: Fury Road, director George Miller used real vehicles and practical stunts for the film’s explosive car chases, leading to some breathtaking and dangerous action sequences. Every car flip, explosion, and dust storm was real, adding to the film’s gritty, intense feel. Avatar remains one of the most ambitious CGI-heavy films ever made. The film’s success showed how CGI could transport audiences to worlds beyond our imagination, something that practical effects simply couldn’t achieve on that scale.

VS CGI

CGI is a visual effects (VFX) technique that uses computer software to create or improve images in movies, and other media. CGI can be used to create characters, scenes, and special effects that are either static or dynamic, 2D or 3D. This allows filmmakers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in reality, creating vast fantasy worlds, futuristic cities, and characters that could never exist in the real world.

How it is done:

CGI allows filmmakers to go beyond the physical world, creating digital environments, creatures, and effects that would be impossible to capture in reality. Artists and animators build 3D models using specialized software, often using motion capture to add lifelike movements to digital characters. CGI requires meticulous post-production work. Many modern films use a blend of both techniques. For example, in Jurassic World, practical animatronics were used for close-up shots of dinosaurs, while CGI took over for fast-paced action scenes. Similarly, in The Dark Knight, Christopher Nolan’s iconic

- Lobashinie M, 2nd Year

truck flip was a practical stunt, enhanced with subtle CGI to achieve the impossible.

Advantages and

disadvantages:

Computer-generated imagery (CGI) allows filmmakers to create worlds, animals, and epic scenarios that are beyond the capabilities of physical effects. Although computer-generated imagery (CGI) might occasionally be more economical for elaborate scenarios, it also guarantees security by digitally replicating risky activities. Nevertheless, overuse of CGI can result in an unnatural appearance that detracts from the immersive experience because viewers are quick to recognize when something doesn’t seem realistic. Furthermore, expensive equipment and experienced artists are needed to produce high-quality CGI, since subpar effects can be visually unappealing.

In the end, there is no clear winner in the battle between practical effects and CGI. Both techniques have their strengths and weaknesses, and the true magic lies in how filmmakers combine them. Practical effects bring authenticity and physicality to a scene, while CGI opens the doors to limitless imagination. The best films often use both, creating an immersive cinematic experience that captivates audiences and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible on screen. As technology advances, filmmakers will continue to find new ways to blend the real with the unreal, ensuring that the debate between practical effects and CGI remains as exciting as the movies themselves.

Evolution in Animation

“The greatest animation is that which makes the impossible possible”

n this digital era of real-time visualization, is it possible to bring all your imaginations into a graphic form? The answer is a resounding yes. Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI), 3D modeling, texturing, animation, visual effects (VFX), and a wide range of art techniques have made it possible. But the precursor to all these visualization techniques is ‘animation,’ which means “the art in mo tion.”What comes to mind when you hear the word “animation”? It is likely some thing nostalgic, like cartoons, fantasy worlds, and more.

In the late 19th century, methods such as sequential drawings and sequential photography were used to create the illusion of motion in objects. Over the years, innovations have revolutionized traditional tech niques into digital ones, leading to astonishing advancements. The root of animation lies in the con cept that pictures placed in suc cession, when flipped, cre ate the illusion of movement

The first device used to project animation was the Phenakistoscope, invented by Joseph Plateau in 1832. Devices like the Zoetrope was also used for animations.The significant rise of animation technologies began in the 20th century, with several traditional techniques such as hand-drawn animation, Cel animation, and stop motion animation.

Points to Ponder : The first animated movie:Fantasmagorie

Hand-drawn animation involves creating images or frames by hand to produce the illusion of movement. Cel animation is of images, drawn or painted on celluloid sheets and layered over backgrounds to create movement. In stop-motion animation , objects or characters are sequentially arranged frame by frame to simulate motion. ”Colonel Heeza Liar” was the first cartoon animated series, made using these traditional techniques in 1914. Until the 19th century, only 2D animations were prevalent. However, in the latter half of the 20th century, computer-animated films became widespread

Key trends in AnimAtion:

The role of media in popularizing animation and animated films have been indispensable, providing global reach. Animation has a significant impact on various industries, including marketing, healthcare, education, gaming, architecture, and engineering. The scope of animation is expanding into all sectors.The trend in animation will continue to grow as long as human imagination persists.

SYNTHETIC WORLDS

DESIGN

Cryptocurrencies Aadithyan & Trading Sridharan

AR/VR Priyadharshan L

AI Replacing Human Connection Anuvidhya S

CRYPTOCURRENCIES & TRADING

Overthe past few years, social media users might have heard of Dogecoin,Pepecoin, and Bitcoin keep popping up as memes. While most users see the humorous side of these names, those looking at the market evaluations are stunned to see the growth of these “Coins”. These digital coins are also called Cryptocurrency, a digital currency that uses the methods of cryptography to conduct secure transactions between the sender and receiver. So, what is this crypto? Let’s look at it in some detail.

Cryptocurrency is a digital payment system that doesn’t rely on banks to verify transactions. It’s a peer-to-peer system that can enable anyone anywhere to send and receive payments. When you transfer cryptocurrency funds, the transactions are recorded in a public ledger. Cryptocurrency is stored in digital wallets. One of the most famous cases of crypto being used for transactions is that of Laszlo Hanyecz, a programmer who was also an enthusiast of Bitcoin. Back in 2010, he purchased 2 Papa John’s pizzas for 10,000 bitcoins. At that time the valuation of Bitcoin was so low that it just was valued at around $41. Today, however, the value of those 10,000 coins is worth almost hundreds of millions of dollars. This shows the rate at which these cryptocurrencies have grown.

Cryptocurrency and internet culture have an intertwined relationship. The internet with its memes and further extreme interest in the subject led to the value of these digi-

tal currencies increase wildly. Companies interested in trading and investment took over this field and started aggressively campaigning for the use of crypto as it was not taxable in many countries and thus even people started trading these currencies. Governments noticing this also started taxing these forms of income.

In India, only post 2022 were there laws to tax cryptos. The companies also could crash and inflate the values of cryptos according to their preferences. This is seen as there is always a boom and crash. Bitcoin especially has been a victim of

this with companies like Coinbase, and Bitconnect which have manipulated the market value of Bitcoin. Social media has also had a very heavy impact on the growth and development of cryptos. A very famous example of this is Dogecoin, a satirical crypto created by engineers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer in 2013. They wanted to use it as a payment system. This is considered the first “Meme coin” aiming to poke fun at the state and speculations on crypto during those times. With almost 8 million visits to their website within the first month many started to see it as a legitimate form of investment. Though initially the value of Dogecoin was almost close to zero, with the help of popular social media websites like Twitter (now X) and Reddit, Dogecoin gained traction and attention. This led to

FUN FACT:

Nfts are digital tokens that are decentralised cryptos that can only be traded one on one (seller to consumer), these include paintings, drawings and other non-imitable digital an increase in the value of the crypto and currently, it's valued at about $2.

The major issue with cryptocurrencies and their trading has always been also its greatest strength. These currencies aren’t regulated by any centralized system and hence they aren’t considered legitimate investments and thus can lose value at any point.

Governments cannot regulate cryptos and it only depends upon the seller and buyer. Most cryptos are considered as stocks by most buyers and these are high-risk options as cryptos are strongly influenced by online trends and exploited by trading companies. This can lead to sudden inflations and drops in rates of crypto thus showing how risky it can be. While affected by online trends, these cryptos can reach high values and thus turn into a swift profit but since there is a lack of regulation the rates can also drop at a crazy level. It depends on the user whether they want to dabble and gamble in the field of crypto but whether you see it as a legitimate investment or token/memorabilia you cannot deny its impact on the present and past generation.

AR

BEYOND THE SCREENS : INTO REALITY

What started as 3D in computer graphics has extended beyond the screens into the physical world with the emergence of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). These technologies connect the virtual environment with our real world. Recently, AR and VR have become more widely used in healthcare and education sectors, no longer limited to just gaming.

ARAugmented reality overlays digital elements onto the real world, allowing users to interact with it in a more natural way. With AR, Google lets us see a variety of creatures, such as dogs and lions. Snapchat also uses augmented reality to provide filters and effects while taking pictures.

Superimposition-based AR partially or even fully replaces the original view of the object with an augmented view of the same object. This is suitable for those who use their smartphones to experience augmented reality. Unlike VR, which requires a headset, AR is more user-friendly and accessible, as it can be used on smartphones.

Tracking sensors are essential to allow the users to navigate real environments and adjust their viewpoints in AR/ VR, continuously updating their location in the virtual world. There are THREE major concepts involved in tracking the user: Six Degrees of Freedom (to detect the movement of a rigid body in 3D space), orientation, and coordinates of the object.

In education, AR is being primarily used to create interactive and engaging classroom environments for the students.

01 03 02

Brands like IKEA are leveraging their AR marketing campaign, allowing customers to try out their products before purchasing them.

In gaming, VR takes the top spot. Along with VR headsets, input devices are used to track the user’s hand gestures and position in the real environment, translating them into a virtual environment. However, the output devices allow the user to see and hear everything that happens in the game. Games like Asgard’s Wrath are often played using Meta VR headsets.

Did you know?

Tuscany+ was the first tourism-specific app, designed to enhance visitor experiences using AR.

VR

“Mixed

reality is the third wave of computing after the personal computer and the smartphone.”-

Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft

VRVirtual reality immerses the users in a digital environment, generating a fully artificial experience with the users cut off from the real world. With VR technology, we can create virtual environments where users can play games or view movies. VR devices such as the Oculus Rift allow users to imitate the digital environment. With the help of a smartphone app called Google Tilt Brush, users can create 3D artwork in a virtual setting.

MRMixed reality merges both AR and VR, allowing us to bring virtual elements into the real world. One example of this is zSpace, an educational technology organization that uses MR

for educational purposes. zSpace uses a monitor, a stylus, and special 3D glasses, using which the users can manipulate virtual components as they appear to pop out of the screen.

Did you know?

The major hurdles to overcome in the use of AR and VR are the cost of the VR headsets, motion sickness while using VR headsets, and privacy. AR and VR track the user’s real-time position in the environment, raising questions about privacy.

AR technology is used in Pokemon GO. In this application, users can acquire points by exploring real-world environments while holding up their smartphone in an attempt to locate and capture “Pokemon” which are connected to particular geographic locations.

The Age of IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY :

AR and VR are not just trends; they build the prototype for how our future will connect to the world. There is hardly an area from education to gaming where the horizon for developing these applications does not seem limitless. Hence, when costs do come down and access increases, it is expected that, like every other aspect of our daily life, AR and VR will basically change the way we learn and work and play. We will soon see mixed reality, which is the integration of AR and VR, assisted with 5G support for infusing lag-free real-time interactions to provide the best of both worlds.

AI REPLACING HUMAN

ANivetha N ,2nd year

rtificial Intelligence is a technology that is rapidly transforming nearly every aspect of our lives. As it becomes more integrated into our daily routines, it’s reshaping how we connect, communicate, and even care for one another. From virtual assistants to AI-generated content, it’s influencing personal and social relationships in profound ways. Let’s unravel the complex relationship between AI and human connection, and discover what really happens behind the screens.

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of a system to simulate human intelligence. AI systems are built on complex algorithms that enable them to perform tasks like problem-solving, learning, reasoning, and decision-making, often without human intervention. At its core, AI is a vast and exciting field, but two key branches are currently making the biggest waves: conversational AI and generative AI. While these often work together, they each have distinct roles and capabilities.

(CONVERSATIONAL AI)

Conversational AI is all about making machines engage in natural human-like conversations. It powers virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant and chatbots. The goal is to create a seamless, intuitive interaction that feels like you’re speaking to a real person rather than a machine. To pull this off, conversational AI uses technologies like natural language processing (NLP), a subfield of artificial intelligence that aims to make computers understand human language. It also uses machine learning, another subdomain of artificial intelligence that focuses on developing systems capable of learning or improving performance based on the data ingested. These systems are trained on vast amounts of data to understand language patterns, enabling them to respond in ways that make sense contextually.

(GENERATIVE AI)

While conversational AI focuses on communication, generative AI takes things a step further by creating entirely new content. This branch of AI can generate text, images, sounds and even animations based on the data it has been trained on.

Tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Jasper AI are examples of generative AI in action.

Generative AI uses deep learning and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to teach computers how to process data in a way that resembles the human brain. It enables the computer to recognize complex patterns.Together, these two fields are transforming the way we interact with technology and how technology interacts with us.

AI is not only revolutionizing technology but also how we form and maintain relationships. With tools like chatbots and virtual assistants becoming more human-like, some individuals are even forming emotional bonds with these AI-driven systems. The growing reliance on AI in social interactions raises concerns about the decline in face-to-face communication, especially among younger generations who are more accustomed to digital life.

In the workplace, AI offers powerful advantages, particularly in streamlining tasks and improving efficiency. But there’s a downside. As more workers rely on digital tools for communication, especially in remote work environments, the opportunities for casual, in-person interactions that help build relationships are dwindling. Experts worry that this could lead to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, both at work and in everyday life.Many organizations are integrating AI to handle repetitive tasks, allowing more time for creative collaboration and meaningful conversations. This approach positions AI as a tool that enhances, rather than replaces, human connection. As AI evolves, it’s crucial to remain mindful of its impact on social interactions and ensure it strengthens, not diminishes, genuine relationships. Striking this balance will allow us to harness AI’s potential while maintaining the irreplaceable value of human connection..

“With artificial intelligence, we are summoning a demon.”

“Ever noticed that most AI voices, like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, are female? Studies suggest it’s because people generally find female voices to be more friendly, trustworthy, and soothing. Plus, historically, women’s voices have often been used in roles of assistance, like telephone operators!”

“Artificial intelligence will have a more profound impact on humanity than fire, electricity and the internet.”

AURACAST

Bluetooth Auracast: Connecting the World Wirelessly

uracast broadcast audio is a new Bluetooth capability that will deliver life changing audio experiences. It will let you share your audio, unmute your world, and hear your best, enhancing the way you engage with others and the world around you. It will enable you to fully enjoy hearing experiences through its powerful features. Before learning about Auracast, it’s essential to understand how Bluetooth has evolved over the years. Bluetooth is used for short-range wireless data communication. Over time, Bluetooth has evolved to improve quality, range, data transfer, compatibility, power - Priyadharshan L,2nd year

Aconsumption, and more...

In January 2020, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) announced the release of the Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio specification, focusing on reducing the energy required for audio communication. It also referenced a new capability: audio sharing. Auracast is not the traditional Bluetooth pairing like Bluetooth 5.2 earbuds or headphones. Instead, an audio signal is broadcast to an unlimited number of in-range receivers. Bluetooth 5.2 is key to unlocking Auracast, as it supports Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio, including a higher resolution LC3 codec.

Let’s look at what Auracast offers... Auracast broadcast audio is a set of defined configurations of Bluetooth broadcast audio specified within the Public Broadcast Profile (PBP). LE Audio introduces broadcast audio to Bluetooth, a feature that allows an audio transmitter to broadcast to an unlimited number of nearby Bluetooth audio receivers. Broadcast audio opens up significant new opportunities for innovation, including Auracast’s powerful new capability, Auracast broadcast audio

How does AURACAST work??

This is the block diagram showing how bluetooth auracast works:

An Auracast transmitter begins broadcasting, which includes advertisements that provide Auracast assistants with information about the broadcast as well as one or more audio streams (e.g., left and right stereo audio).

Did you know?

1) Bluetooth technology was conceived in the late 1990s by Ericsson, a Swedish telecommunications company and was named after “Harald Bluetooth Gormsson”, a Viking king known for uniting Den mark and Norway

2) The Bluetooth logo is a combination of the runes representing Harald Bluetooth’s initials, H.B.

Auracast assistants scan for these advertisements and provide a user interface (UI) that allows users to select an Auracast broadcast to join, similar to how users connect to Wi-Fi networks in public spaces.

Once an Auracast broadcast is selected, the assistant provides the receiver (e.g., headphone, earbud, hearing aid) with the necessary information to join the broadcast.

At its most basic level, Auracast is very much like terrestrial AM or FM radio. Alternatively, you can think of it as a public Wi-Fi access point, except that the signal is one-way only. The interface on a phone or other device shows a list of available Auracast broadcasts in your vicinity, each with its own name. The SIG assures us that an Auracast broadcast can be secured with a password for encryption if needed. According to the Blue tooth SIG, each year companies ship more than

5 billion Bluetooth en abled products world wide. With the introduc tion of Auracast, a new feature that allows us ers to broadcast and share audio with mul tiple nearby device, becomes even more enticing to consumers looking for enhanced connectivity experienc es.

Bluetooth SIG member companies can follow these three steps to add support for Auracast broadcast audio in their products:

1) Build the Product: Implement Auracast broadcast audio within their Auracast transmitter products.

2) Qualify the Product: Complete the Bluetooth Qualification Process using the Qualification Workspace.

3) Brand the Product: Use the Auracast trademarks on product packaging, websites, promotional materials and many as of now.

The Bluetooth SIG has isolated three key experiences Auracast will enable:

1) Share Your Audio: Share your audio experience with others, each using their own earbuds or headphones.

2) Unmute Your World: Join the audio broadcast of a program or monitor rather than watching in silence.

3) Hear Your Best: Directly listen to public

“The advent of technologies like Auracast broadcast audio has the potential to give people who wear hearing aids and cochlear implants, an important new option for hearing access in their everyday lives.”
— Barbara Kelley, Executive Director of the Hearing Loss Association of America

HAPTIC TECHNOLOGY

You look lonely; want to feel a touch? No need to worry about losing the human touch after all. Haptic technology offers a more connected user experience, which could be key for companies in the future.

In the 21st century, technological advancement moved towards space. Various technologies have been emerging, and one such technology is haptic technology. The word “haptic” derives from the Greek word ‘haptikos,’ meaning ‘pertaining to the sense of touch.’ Haptic technology transmits tactile information using sensations such as vibration, touch, and force feedback. Virtual reality systems and real-world technologies use haptics to enhance interactions with humans.

How exactly do haptics work?

Before we dive into the workings of this technology, let’s first understand the role of human skin. Touch is often the overlooked sense, but we receive a vast amount of information through touch almost all the time. This complex organ is full of touch receptors and nerve endings called the somatosensory system. This system notifies the brain of heat, cold, pain, and other sensations that humans feel. This information is very important for understanding our surroundings.

The main goal of haptic technology is to communicate something to the user. There are many different reasons why one would want to communicate in the first place. Haptic technology can be used to teach something, to train someone, to build something, or simply to entertain the user. Audio and graphics stimulate our senses of sound and sight to transmit information.

Similarly, haptics stimulates our somatosensory system to pass on information and provide context. “Haptic feedback” (or just “haptics”) is the application of forces, vibrations, and motions to help recreate the sense of touch for the user when interacting with a given piece of technology.

Haptic technology is an umbrella term for technology that can create an artificial sense of touch. Its origins trace back to the 1970s in aviation technology. Initially, it was used to warn pilots about hazardous flights, but it rapidly emerged over the years and became user-friendly to the level of video game controllers. Haptic technology is divided into three types: graspable (robotic controllers), touchable (smartphone interaction), and wearable (virtual reality). Haptic technology has been advancing in every field. New iterations of haptic technology have even been shown to improve the outcomes of robotic surgeries and assist those with disabilities. Driving is a highly involved activity that requires a high level of visual, auditory, and physical awareness.

Did you know? Haptic technolgy is the base for the metaverse. In Ready Player One, haptic suits are used to feel the gameplay to its maximum ex- tent.

Haptic feedback is one way to make using touchscreens in cars safer and faster.

Studies show that introducing haptic feedback in automotive dashboards can help reduce task completion time, reduce perceived task difficulty, and enhance the user experience.

Haptic feedback has been used in video games for decades, dating back to the 1978 arcade cabinet game Moto cross by Sega. It was the first video game to feature vibrotactile feedback, where the players would feel the rumble of the motorcycle as it crashed into other bikes on the screen.

The user experience can be enhanced by haptics because every interaction can be upgraded from 2D to 3D. It can also increase customer satisfaction and help companies capture the right market.

Haptic technology has been around for decades, but how we use haptics to enrich our lives has accelerated in recent years. Advancements in haptic technology are helping us become safer, more efficient, and more versatile than ever before. Whatever the future holds for haptic technology, further advancements will continue to enhance our audiovisual and physical experiences in profound and exciting ways.

MEDICAL FIELD

Haptic technology enhances medical training, therapy, and patient care. It refines surgeons’ skills, aids rehabilitation, and improves telemedicine diagnoses. Benefits include accuracy, safety, and reduced recovery time. Future advancements include AI, wearable tech, and VR/AR, revolutionizing medical education, treatment, and patient engagement for better health outcomes.

Sanjay C 2022105514

Amirthaa P 2022105544

Nandhitha Ravi

2022105525

Karpagam S S 2022105551

CYBERTHREATS

With over 5 billion internet users globally, the digital landscape offers endless opportunities for communication, commerce, and innovation. However, this massive connectivity also opens the door to cybercriminals who target individuals, companies, and even governments. Threats like phishing, malware, and ransomware are rampant, and as the number of online access points increases, protecting every entry becomes more challenging.

Cybermenace :

Cybermenace refers to various malicious activities that pose significant risks in cyberspace. These threats can lead to major damage, whether on a personal, organizational, or national level. Some of the biggest dangers include:

1. Cybercrime:

Cybercriminals engage in identity theft, fraud, and selling stolen data. By 2025, experts predict the annual cost of cybercrime will reach $10.5 trillion, including direct financial losses and recovery expenses.

2. Cyberterrorism:

Cyberterrorists use digital attacks to cause panic and disrupt services. Attacks on critical infrastructure, like power grids, can have devastating effects on entire populations.

3. .Hacking and Data

Breaches :

Unauthorized access to sensitive data is a common cyberattack. In 2023, over 2.3 billion records were compromised, impacting sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government.

4.Ransomware and Malware :

Ransomware involves encrypting a victim’s data and demanding payment for its release. In 2021, the average ransomware payment was $570,000. Malware is also used to steal data and sabotage systems.

5.Phishing and Social Engineering :

Phishing tricks individuals into revealing sensitive information, while social engineering manipulates people to gain access to secure systems. Over 83% of organizations have experienced phishing attacks.

DID YOU •A cyberattack seconds •Over 90% exploit human clicking

Cybershadows :

Cybershadows refer to hidden threats that lurk in the background of our online activities, often unnoticed until they cause significant damage. Cybershadows remind us that even seemingly harmless online activities can expose us to hidden risks.

1.Digital Footprints

Every online action leaves a digital footprint, which cybercriminals can use to build profiles for identity theft or other illegal activities.

2. Hidden Malware

Hidden malware can remain dormant, collecting data or waiting for the right moment to strike. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) can persist for years before detection.

YOU KNOW?

cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds on average.

90% of cyberattacks human error, such as on malicious links.

3.Spyware

Spyware secretly monitors user activity and reports it to hackers. It can record keystrokes, access emails, or even turn on cameras without the user’s knowledge.

WHITE-HAT HACKERS AND WHISTLEBLOWING

White-hat hackers, or ethical hackers, play a key role in cybersecurity. They are hired by organizations to find vulnerabilities before cybercriminals exploit them. By simulating attacks, they identify weaknesses and recommend fixes.Whistleblowing involves exposing unethical, illegal, or harmful activities within an organization. Whistleblowers, often with insider knowledge, bring attention to wrongdoing that would otherwise remain hidden. These individuals usually face personal and professional risks but are crucial in holding organizations accountable.

The digital world offers countless benefits but also introduces serious risks. Cybermenace represents visible, aggressive threats that can disrupt lives and systems, while cybershadows refer to hidden dangers that silently undermine security. In this connected world, vigilance and proactive cybersecurity measures are essential. By educating ourselves on cyber hygiene and supporting ethical hacking and whistleblowing efforts, we can better protect against the ever-changing threats in cyberspace.

In today’s world, the internet is a vast and complex network that has reshaped how we live, work, and interact. While most people use the visible parts of the web to shop, communicate, and access information, there’s a hidden side that few ever explore: the dark web. One of its most notorious symbols of this underground world was the Silk Road, an online marketplace that flourished on the dark web and became a hub for illicit trade.

The internet can be divided into three layers: the surface web, the deep web, and the dark web. The surface web includes anything accessible through search engines like Google, while the deep web consists of data not indexed by these engines— such as academic databases, private company networks, and password-protected websites. The dark web is an even more obscure layer. It is not only hidden but also requires special software, most notably the Tor browser, to access.

While much of the dark web’s rep utation comes from its association with criminal activity, not everything on it is illegal. In fact, it can serve legiti mate purposes, including offering for whistleblowers, journalists, and activ ists to communicate securely. its anonymity has also made it a haven for those seeking to engage in ty

While the Silk Road exemplifies the dark web’s capacity to enable illegal activities, the dark web also serves critical functions in preserving privacy and anonymity. In oppressive regimes where freedom of speech is restricted, journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens use the dark web to communicate securely and evade censorship. Platforms like SecureDrop enable whistleblowers to share sensitive information with media organizations without exposing their identities.

That said, the dark web remains a

By 2013, after two years of operation, the FBI and other law enforcement agencies had enough. Through a series of undercover operations and clever investigative work, authorities tracked down Ross Ulbricht, who had been operating under the alias Dread Pirate Roberts. Ulbricht was arrested in a San Francisco library in October 2013, and the original Silk Road was swiftly taken

Following his arrest, Ulbricht was convicted on charges including money laundering, drug trafficking, and computer hack ing. In 2015, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole, a sentence that sparked controversy, especially among privacy advocates and libertarians who viewed the punishment as excessively harsh.

Despite the shutdown of the original Silk Road, its legacy lived on. Numerous copycat sites like Silk Road 2.0, AlphaBay, and Hansa attempted to fill the void, though many of these, too, were eventually taken down by law enforcement. The cycle of new darkweb marketplaces springing up and being shut down by authorities continues to this day, highlight

Bennett)

(Gilles Brassard)

UGH LENS

STARTUP-101

‘A JOURNEY FROM IDEA TO REALITY ’ - THIRUVIKESH B, 2nd year

Astartup

is a newly established business venture that focuses on solving real-life problems prevalent in the industry. It introduces unique solutions to meet public demands and bridge market gaps. Startups significantly boost a country’s GDP by creating employment opportunities and are estimated to contribute around 4-5% to India’s GDP in the near future. In this article, we will see how a startup idea begins from scratch and the pathway to developing it into a successful business model.

Idea Generation and Validation

Every startup begins with an idea. The key is identifying a problem that needs solving. This could be a challenge you face daily, an inefficiency in a particular industry, or a gap in the market. Once you’ve pinpointed the problem, analyze it from different perspectives. Brainstorm with friends or colleagues, and be open to new ideas. Conduct a SWOT analysis to understand market trends, competition, and the reasons why the problem hasn’t been solved yet. This helps determine if your solution is viable. Gather feedback from potential customers to validate your idea.

Building a Strong Team

A great team is essential for a startup’s success. Each member’s unique skills and collaborative approach can turn challenges into opportunities. Effective communication and clear roles ensure everyone is aligned with the common goal. Beyond hiring talented individuals, focus on fostering growth and development. Invest in training and ensure team members share the startup’s vision. Look for people whose skills and values align with your company’s goals

Securing Funding

Did you know : Dropbox was started by Drew Houston, who was frustrated by forgetting his USB drive and struggling to access important files.

Once you have a solid idea and team, securing funding is crucial. Bootstrapping, using personal savings, is a common starting point. However, larger ambitions often require external funding. Angel investors provide early-stage funding in exchange for ownership. To attract angel investment, prepare a compelling pitch that highlights your business idea, market potential, and growth plan.

ANGEL INVESTORS

FUNDING

Venture capitalists (VCs) are professional investors who invest larger sums to scale a startup. They conduct thorough re search to assess the busi ness model, market poten tial, leadership, and growth strategy. VCs typically exit after 5-10 years through an IPO.If finding investors is challenging, consider incubators or accelerators. These organizations offer support, mentor ship, and re sources to help startups grow.

Bank loans are another option, but they require careful

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Registering your startup is essential. Decide on the legal structure and register the name on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal. Obtain necessary documents like a Digital Signature Certificate and Director Identification Number. Register your firm on the Startup India portal

FACTS:Flipkart,founded

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