New generation communication technologies allow creation of novel media products that can serve the community at large. Such products must be robust, and possess simple and universal interfaces. As part of a project from IL&FS (Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd.) Educational & Technology Services, Prof Kirti Trivedi of IDC has developed K-Yan, such a compact media product for community use. It combines the functions of: a multimedia and internet enabled PC, large format television, DVD/VCD/CD player, CD writer, video-conference device, LCD data projector, and an audio system that facilitates shared viewing and participation by users. Launched in March 2004 at the major event IT.Com held in Bangalore, K-Yan has been demonstrated to several Chief Ministers, and senior state and central government officials.K-Yan is easy to use, has multilingual facilities, and eliminates the need for investing in other media hardware. A single unit can cater to the teaching needs of an entire class, and substantially reduce the cost of computerizing schools. The integration of various functions not only allows students to learn how to use a computer, but also other subjects, and crafts. The product will also be useful in other group learning or information dissemination programs like healthcare, family planning, agricultural practices, and civic awareness drives.

K-Yan is equipped with extra solar energy-based portable power supply to enable use in areas with no electricity. Mounted on a van, it can also function as a mobile communication centre from remote locations. With an internet connection and a web-camera, it would allow low cost web-conferencing from any location–making it useful in disaster management or project progress monitoring. The web-conferencing feature will also be useful in e-governance, as it will facilitate direct communication between various agencies and the administration.

K-Yan has evoked enthusiastic response and is on the way to becoming a major commercial success.

Contact: Prof K Trivedi, Industrial Design Center kirti@idc.iitb.ac.in

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