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(TCF 2006) | Press Release | Professional Conference | Keynote Speaker | Featured Speakers | Poster Sessions | Talks and Forums

Technology - Saturday April 22, 2006, Room RC D

10:15 am to 11:10 am
The Apollo Guidance Computer: Architecture and Operation
by Frank O'Brien, Infoage Science/History Learning Center

Abstract :

Perhaps the single spacecraft component that assured the success of the Apollo lunar missions was its guidance computer. Created in the 1960's when most computers filled an entire room, the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) was small, low power, and included capabilities that are advanced by today's standards. The Infoage Science and Learning Center has acquired an early AGC as part of its History of Computing Technologies collection. We will be discussing the computers hardware and software architecture interfaces and how designers overcame its limitations. Additionally, we will cover the user interface and operations required for a flight from the Earth to the Moon. Attendees will get the opportunity to examine the AGC, its components and review its source code.

Bio :

Frank O'Brien is a volunteer Apollo historian for NASA, primarily as a researcher for the Apollo Lunar Surface Journal, and is co-editor of the Apollo Flight Journal. He was responsible for preparing the Lunar Module Simulator and other artifacts for exhibition at the Cradle of Aviation Museum (Long Island, NY), and is an associate director at the Infoage Science/History Learning Center.

11:20 am to 12:15 pm
The Use of Computers to Assist Amateur Astronomers & Advance Amateur Astronomy
by Alan Andrea, WebIntel-Systems Inc.

Abstract :

This talk will focus on how computers can assist amateur astronomers advance their capabilities by the use of existing software and telescope control API's to get more out of their hobby and gain a deeper appreciation for astronomy. He will go into details on how software can be used to control telescopes, perform CCD astrophotography and how one can write their own software to automate their telescopes. Furthermore, he will delve into the possibility of networking telescopes together over the internet so that they can work in unison to do imaging of different parts of the sky and combine the results into one consolidated view. Then he will present CCD images taken of galaxies and nebulae and present a discussion of how CCD cameras work and the basics of computerized astrophotography.

Bio :

Alan Andrea is a programmer at Lehman Brothers in NYC. He has 12 years of programming experience, a BS degree in computer science and has done graduate work in computer science as well. He has significant expertise in databases and java programming, and also has a keen interest in astronomy and applying computer science to other scientific disciplines.

12:25 pm to 1:20 pm
Software Defined Radio - Evolution of Flexible Radio Architectures
by Joe Jesson, General Electric

Abstract :

Software Defined Radio (SDR) is one of the fastest growing radio architectures. This talk will introduce SDR and some of the available commercial SDR radios (SDR14, DS100, WiFi, GPS Receivers) and hobbyist radios (SDR-1000 and the experimental Softrock V5). The evolution of the superhetrodyne receiver to a zero-IF design will be discussed with an emphasis of what can be demodulated through I/Q signals into A/D converters. The amazing myriad of software, which leverages the sound card will be reviewed, suggestions on improving sound card limitations will be discussed and a live demo presented.

Bio :

Joe Jesson is Chief Technologist for GE's Asset Intelligence business and has extensive technical management experience for Motorola, Oak Technology, and BP Amoco. Joe holds multiple patents for Optical Sensors, Covert Patch Antenna, Membrane Switch, and Software innovations. He holds a Master's degree from DePaul University in Chicago and an MTS at the University of Chicago. Call also hold the amateur radio call sign KB9LZB.

1:30 pm to 2:25 pm
What is a Patent?
by Anthony Carlis, Invent This! Inc.

Abstract :

An overview of the patent process and what protection it affords the small inventor. In addition, all major types of intellectual property (IP) will be discussed including trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.

Bio :

Anthony R. Carlis, Esquire was a systems analyst for Unisys Corporation before becoming a patent attorney. Prior to Unisys, Anthony developed and programmed assembly line robots for Ford. In addition, he developed data acquisition (telemetry) hardware for NASA and the NSA.

3:40 pm to 4:35 pm
What's new in Video Game Machines?
by Roger Amidon, DX Computer Company

Abstract :

Roger has been involved with video games since the 8 bit Nintendo was released. Roger will demonstrate and discuss some of the latest machines - and games - coming soon to a "Toy's R Us" near you.

Bio :

Roger has been involved with computer technology for over 30 years. He was one of the "Pioneers" during the early days of personal computers. He invented the "Z80" board for the Altair computer as well as many other products. Roger has been developing games for almost 15 years. Oh, and he doesn't just make games, he also enjoys playing them!