By Tokuma Bayisa
College Of Humanities, Language Studies, Journalism, And Communication
Broadcast journalism
Undergraduate Program
Subject:Introduction to Digital Tools In New Media
Sub.code:BRJR2021
Prepared By
Name: Tokuma Bayisa
ID.NO: UGR/8116/15
Submitted: Mr. Talew Gualo
Submission date: Nov 24, 2023
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By Tokuma Bayisa
Table Content. Page No.
1. Audio Recorders .........................................................................3
1.1. Microphone,,......................................................................3
1.2. Speaker.......,......................................................................3
1.3. Control..............................................................................4
2. Digital Photography ................................................................4
2.1. Lens....................................................................................4
2.2. Other Camera features.......................................................5
2.3. Image Sensor.....................................................................6
2.4. Viewfinder ( display small screen)...................................6
2.5. Battery................................................................................7
3. Digital Video Camera...............................................................7
3.1. Live Television and Real-time...........................................7
3.2. Record for Storage...........................................................8
4. Digital Storage........................................................................8
4.1. Magnetic Storage Devices................................................8
4.2. Hard disc Drive.................................................................9
4.3. Solid State Drive..............................................................10
4.4. Optical Storage.................................................................11
4.5. DVD-RAM..........................................................................12
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1. Audio Recorders
An audio recorder is a device used to capture and store audio signals. It can be a portable
handheld device, a smartphone app, or computer software. The primary function of an audio
recorder is to capture sound for various purposes such as interviews, lectures, music, podcasts,
and voice memos.
1.1. Microphone
A microphone is an essential component of an audio recording setup. It converts sound waves
into electrical signals. Microphones can be categorized into different types based on their
technology and intended use.
Dynamic microphones use a moving coil attached to a diaphragm and are versatile and sturdy,
suitable for live performances and recording loud sources.
Condenser microphones use a charged diaphragm and backplate to create capacitance. They
offer high sensitivity and are ideal for studio recording and capturing subtle details.
Ribbon microphones use a thin strip of metal as the diaphragm and provide a smooth and
vintage-like sound reproduction.
Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel microphones, are small and clipped onto clothing for
hands-free operation during interviews and presentations.
USB microphones have a built-in analog-to-digital converter and connect directly to a computer
via USB, making them popular for podcasting and home recording setups.
These different types of microphones cater to various recording needs and provide options for
capturing sound accurately and effectively.
1.2. Speakers
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Speakers, also known as loudspeakers or audio speakers, are devices that convert electrical
signals into sound waves. They play a crucial role in audio reproduction systems, such as music
systems, home theaters, public address systems, and various electronic devices that require
sound output.
The primary function of a speaker is to transform electrical signals, typically audio signals, into
sound waves that can be heard by humans. When an electrical signal is applied to a speaker, it
passes through various components within the speaker, resulting in the movement of a
diaphragm or cone. This movement generates changes in air pressure, causing the diaphragm
or cone to vibrate and produce sound waves.
1.3. Controls
Controls on an audio recorder are buttons, knobs, switches, and menus that allow users to
adjust recording settings and functions. Common controls include power on/off, record/pause,
stop, play/stop, forward/rewind, fast forward/rewind, track/chapter navigation, input
gain/level control, monitoring/headphone volume, menu/settings, file management, input
selection, display/screen controls, and USB/connectivity controls. These controls enable users
to customize recording parameters, navigate features, adjust input sensitivity, monitor audio,
manage files, and interact with the recorder's interface.
2. Digital photography Camera
Digital photography cameras, commonly known as digital cameras, are electronic devices used
to capture and store digital images. They have revolutionized the field of photography by
replacing traditional film-based cameras with digital sensors that convert light into electrical
signals, allowing for immediate image preview, storage, and sharing.
2.1. Lens
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A lens is a transparent optical element that bends light as it passes through it. In digital
cameras, the main function of the lens is to focus incoming light onto the image sensor to
create a sharp and properly exposed image. It performs several key functions:
1. Light Gathering: The lens collects light from the scene and determines the amount of light
that enters the camera through its aperture.
2. Focal Length: The focal length of a lens determines its field of view and magnification.
Shorter focal lengths capture a wider view, while longer focal lengths magnify distant subjects.
3. Focus Control: The lens allows for adjusting the focus, bringing specific areas of the scene
into sharp focus. Autofocus systems use motorized lens elements or ultrasonic vibrations, while
manual focus lenses require manual adjustment.
4. Depth of Field: The lens aperture, in combination with the focal length and subject distance,
affects the depth of field. A wider aperture results in a shallower depth of field, isolating the
subject from the background, while a narrower aperture increases the depth of field, keeping
more of the scene in focus.
5. Lens Design and Optics: Lenses consist of multiple optical elements that correct optical
aberrations like distortion and chromatic aberration, which can impact image quality.
6. Lens Compatibility: Digital cameras often have interchangeable lens systems, allowing
photographers to use lenses with different focal lengths and characteristics. The camera's lens
mount determines which lenses are compatible with a specific camera model.
2.2.Other features commonly found in the body of a digital camera include:
1. LCD Screen: Digital cameras have an LCD screen that serves multiple functions, including live
view composition, image playback, menu navigation, and accessing settings and controls.
2. Controls and Settings: Cameras have buttons, dials, and menus that allow photographers to
adjust various settings like exposure, focus, white balance, ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and
aperture, providing control over the captured images.
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3. Memory Card: Digital cameras use removable memory cards, such as SD, CF, or XQD, to store
captured images. Memory cards offer a portable and convenient way to store and transfer
digital image files.
4. Image Processing: Cameras have built-in image processing capabilities that enhance and
optimize captured images. This includes processes like noise reduction, color correction,
sharpening, and image compression.
5. Connectivity: Many digital cameras offer connectivity options like USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
These features enable users to transfer images to computers or mobile devices, print directly,
or share images online.
2 .3. Image sensor
An image sensor is a solid-state electronic device found in digital cameras that detects and
records the intensity and color information of light, converting it into an electrical signal. Its
primary function is to capture light and transform it into a digital format that can be processed
and stored as an image. The key aspects of its function include light capture by an array of light-
sensitive pixels, pixel structure determining resolution, color detection using a color filter array,
analog-to-digital conversion of electrical signals, image processing for enhancement, and
optimization, and variations in sensor size and type impacting performance and characteristics.
2.4. Viewfinder(display)
A viewfinder or small display screen in a digital camera is an optical or electronic component
that provides a visual representation of the scene being photographed. Its primary function is
to assist photographers in composing their shots and making informed decisions about framing,
focus, exposure, and other elements of the scene. Key aspects of its function include
composition and framing, assessing focus and depth of field, exposure and metering
information, image review, live view functionality, and displaying relevant camera settings and
details. The viewfinder or display screen plays a crucial role in helping photographers capture
the desired image with precision and creativity.
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2 .5. Battery
A battery in a digital photography camera is an electrochemical device that stores and supplies
electrical energy to power the camera's electronic circuitry and components. Its key function is
to serve as the primary power source for the camera, enabling its portability and operation in
various locations. The battery's capacity determines its overall life and usage, and rechargeable
battery types such as Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Lithium-polymer (Li-poly) are commonly used in
digital cameras. Battery management systems monitor the battery's charge level and provide
information to the user, and charging can be done through dedicated chargers or USB ports on
the camera, following manufacturer guidelines for optimal battery performance. Managing
battery life and carrying spare batteries or chargers are important considerations for
photographers during extended shooting sessions.
3. Digital video Camera
A digital video camera, also known as a camcorder, is a device used for capturing and recording
videos. It combines a video camera and digital storage system to create digital video recordings.
3.1. Live Television and Real-time
The real-time capability of a digital video camera is essential for capturing and transmitting live
television broadcasts. Real-time functionality allows the camera to capture, process, and output
video and audio content with minimal latency or delay. It ensures that the camera records and
outputs the content as it is happening without noticeable delays. The camera's internal
processing capabilities play a significant role in achieving real-time performance by quickly and
efficiently processing incoming video and audio signals, applying adjustments and
enhancements in real-time. The real-time output of the camera enables immediate viewing or
transmission of the captured content, making it suitable for live television broadcasts. Real-time
synchronization is crucial in multi-camera setups to ensure that footage from different cameras
remains in sync during live broadcasts. Minimizing latency is important to reduce delays
between the actual event and its display on viewers' screens.
3 .2. Record for storage
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The "record for storage" function in a digital video camera involves capturing and storing video
and audio content onto a storage medium for later playback or editing. The camera captures
real-time video and audio signals, encoding and compressing them to optimize file size and
quality. The recorded data is then written onto removable storage media such as SD cards or
internal/external drives. The content is saved in specific file formats, accompanied by metadata
that includes recording details. The camera provides file management features for organizing
and managing recorded files. Once stored, the recorded content can be transferred to a
computer or compatible devices for editing, playback, or distribution, enabling users to refine
the footage and create a final edited video product.
4. Digital Storage
4.1. Magnetic Storage Devices
Magnetic storage devices utilize magnetized media, such as disks or tapes, to store and retrieve
digital data. They function by using a write head to magnetize the medium with binary data and
a read head to detect the magnetic patterns and convert them into electrical signals
representing the stored data. Magnetic storage devices include hard disk drives (HDDs) with
rotating platters and magnetic coatings, as well as tape drives that use a long strip of magnetic
tape. These devices offer large storage capacities, ranging from gigabytes to petabytes, making
them suitable for storing vast amounts of data. While access times and speeds can vary,
magnetic storage devices are known for their durability and longevity. However, they may be
susceptible to damage from strong magnetic fields or external factors.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
- Relatively low cost per unit of storage. - Slower access times compared to solid-state
drives.
Large storage capacity available. - Susceptible to mechanical failure and data
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loss.
- Longevity and durability of data storage.
- Fragile and sensitive to environmental
factors such as magnetic fields.
4.2. Hard disc Drive
Hard Disk Drive (HDD):
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a type of magnetic storage device that uses rotating disks or platters
coated with a magnetic material to store and retrieve digital data. It is a non-volatile storage
medium, meaning it retains data even when power is turned off. HDDs have been widely used
in computers, laptops, servers, and other devices for long-term data storage.
Function:
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a storage device that uses spinning platters coated with a magnetic
material to store and retrieve digital data. Its key components include platters, read/write
heads, an actuator and arm assembly, a spindle motor, and data encoding/decoding
mechanisms. The platters store the data, while the read/write heads read and write data on the
platter surfaces. The actuator arm moves the heads across the platters to access data. The
spindle motor spins the platters at a constant speed. Data is encoded magnetically on the
platters and decoded by the read heads. The HDD interfaces with the operating system, which
manages the file system and facilitates data access. HDDs are available in various storage
capacities, and their performance is influenced by factors such as rotational speed, data
transfer rate, and seek time.
Advantages:
- High storage capacity.
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- Relatively low cost per gigabyte.
- Established and widely used technology.
Disadvantages:
- Mechanical components can lead to mechanical failures.
- Relatively slower access times compared to solid-state drives.
- Bulkier and heavier compared to solid-state drives
4.3. Solid State Drive (SSD)
A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a storage device that uses flash memory or integrated circuits to
store and retrieve digital data. It offers faster data access, improved reliability, and lower power
consumption compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). SSDs consist of NAND flash
memory chips organized into memory cells, controlled by a controller that manages data flow,
encoding/decoding, and performance optimization. Data is accessed electronically, resulting in
faster random read/write operations. Wear leveling algorithms distribute data evenly to
optimize the lifespan of the SSD. TRIM support allows for internal optimization and
maintenance of performance. SSDs are available in various storage capacities and their
performance is influenced by factors such as flash memory type, controller capabilities, and
interface connectivity.
Advantages:
- Faster access times compared to magnetic storage devices.
- No moving parts, making them more resistant to shock and vibration.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Lower power consumption.
Disadvantages:
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- Higher cost per unit of storage compared to magnetic storage devices.
- Limited lifespan due to a finite number of write cycles.
- Capacities tend to be lower than hard disk drives.
4.4. Optical Storage:
Optical storage is a data storage technology that uses laser light to read and write data on
optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. It involves the use of a laser beam to interact
with the reflective surface of the disc, which contains microscopic pits and lands representing
data. The laser technology reads the reflected light from the disc's surface, converting it into
electrical signals to retrieve data. Writing data involves altering the disc's surface through
heating or dye alteration. Optical storage devices offer varying storage capacities, with CDs
holding up to 700 MB, DVDs ranging from 4.7 GB to 18 GB, and Blu-ray discs providing even
higher capacities. Optical storage has been widely used for software distribution, media
storage, and archival purposes.
Advantages:
- Relatively low cost per disc.
- Widespread compatibility with different devices.
- Longevity of data storage.
Disadvantages:
- Limited storage capacity compared to magnetic and solid-state drives.
- Slower data transfer rates.
- Susceptible to physical damage and scratches.
4.5. DVD-RAM:
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DVD-RAM (Digital Versatile Disc - Random Access Memory) is a rewritable optical disc that
offers high data storage capacity and random access capabilities. It is commonly used for data
backup, archiving, and data-intensive applications. DVD-RAM discs come in various capacities,
typically ranging from 2.6 GB to 9.4 GB per side, with dual-sided discs providing double the
capacity. They allow for random access, enabling quick data retrieval and efficient file
management. DVD-RAM discs can be both read from and written to, utilizing phase-change
recording technology. They are known for their durability, longevity, and ability to withstand
repeated read and write operations. However, DVD-RAM compatibility may require specific
drives or devices that support the DVD-RAM format.
Advantages:
- Reusable and rewritable.
- Long lifespan and data retention.
- Compatible with DVD-RAM drives.
Disadvantages:
- Limited storage capacity compared to other storage technologies.
- Slower data transfer rates compared to solid-state drives and hard disk drives.
- Decreased availability and popularity compared to other storage options.
Reference
1.Television production Handbook by Herbert Zettle
2. Digital video and audio broadcasting technology By Walter Fischer
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3. Wikipedia, www.masterclass.com
4.www.techtarget.com
5. University of Hawaii :www2.hawaii.edu
The http://www2.hawaii.edu/~wangch/courses/ACM374/Material/notes/mics.htm
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