Data Processing in ICT

Data in ICT

• Data are raw, unorganized facts and figures
• Data serve as the fundamental element upon which information is built
• Examples of data include temperature readings, ship's position coordinates, and cargo weight.
• Information is data that has been processed and organized to make it meaningful and useful
• A series of temperature readings over time can be processed to show a trend, indicating potential engine overheating
• Ship position coordinates can be used to plot a course on an electronic chart

Importance of Accurate and Timely Data Processing: Safety

• Accurate and up-to-date navigational data (charts, weather forecasts, vessel positions) is important for safe navigation, collision avoidance, and route planning
• Timely data on vessel location, distress signals, and weather conditions is vital for swift and effective search and rescue operations

Importance of Accurate and Timely Data Processing: Efficiency

• Analyzing data on fuel consumption, speed, and weather conditions allows for more efficient route planning, reducing fuel costs and emissions
• Predictive maintenance relies on data from sensors and historical records to anticipate equipment failures, minimizing downtime and costly repairs
• Accurate data is essential for complying with safety regulations, environmental regulations (e.g., emissions reporting), and international conventions in the heavily regulated maritime industry

Importance of Accurate and Timely Data Processing: Decision Making

• Data-driven decisions can improve operational efficiency, optimize cargo handling, and enhance overall ship performance
• Accurate data helps in areas like fleet management, chartering decisions, and financial planning

Components of a Computer: Hardware

• Input devices allow users to enter data into the computer
• Examples of input devices are keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, webcam.
• Output devices display or present processed information
• Examples of output devices are monitor, printer, speakers, headphones.
• The CPU (“brain”) performs calculations, executes instructions, and controls data flow
• Memory temporarily stores data and instructions while the computer is in use
• RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile memory that loses data when power is turned off.
• ROM (Read Only Memory) stores permanent instructions (e.g., BIOS)
• Storage devices store data permanently, even when the computer is turned off
• Examples are Hard drive, SSD (Solid-State Drive), USB drives, and external hard drives

Components of a Computer: Software

• Software provides instructions and commands to the hardware to perform tasks
• System software manages hardware resources and provides a platform for other software to run
• Examples of operating systems (OS) are Windows, macOS, Linux.
• Application software include programs designed for specific tasks
• Examples of application software include word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, and games.

Data Processing Cycle:

• Data is entered into the computer using input devices in the Input phase
• The CPU processes data with software instructions in the Processing phase
• Processed data and software programs are stored on the computer's storage devices in Storage phase
• The processed information is presented to the user through output devices during the output phase

Stages of Data Processing: Data Collection

• Data collection can be accomplished with sensors and manual entries
• Sensors, such as temperature, pressure, GPS receivers, as well as radar systems and depth sounders, on the vessel and its surroundings collect data automatically
• Logbooks are traditional paper-based records of ship's activities (navigation, engine room operations, cargo handling, and maintenance)
• Manual entries can be weather observations, voyage plans, and maintenance records

Stages of Data Processing: Accuracy

• Inaccurate data can cause critical errors in navigation, collision avoidance, and emergency response with major safety implications
• Inaccurate data can result in inefficient operations, increased fuel consumption, and unnecessary maintenance costs, which impacts efficiency
• Inaccurate data can lead to non-compliance with regulations, which can lead to fines and penalties

Stages of Data Processing: Data Input

• Manual data entry happens using the a keyboard
• Scanners input barcodes, QR codes, and other printed sources
• Dat Loggers automatically record data from sensors and other sources

Stages of Data Processing: Data Validation and Error Checking

• Range checks ensure data falls within a specific range of acceptable values
• Format checks verify that data is entered in the correct format (e.g., date, time, numerical values)
• Cross-checks compare data from different sources to identify inconsistencies
• Data cleaning identifies and corrects errors in the data

Stages of Data Processing: Data Processing, Role of the CPU

• The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the "brain" of the computer and performs calculations, manipulates data, and executes instructions based on the software

Stages of Data Processing: Data Processing, Processing Techniques

• Sorting arranges data in a specific order (e.g., alphabetical, numerical)
• Filtering selects and extracts specific data from a larger dataset
• Aggregation summarizes data, such as calculating averages, sums, and totals
• Analysis identifies trends, patterns, and relationships within the data

Stages of Data Processing: Data Output

• Output devices include printers, monitors and displays
• Printers produce hard copies of reports, documents, and charts
• Monitors display information visually on a screen
• Displays are electronic used to present navigational charts, engine room parameters, and alarms to the crew

Stages of Data Processing: Clear Output

• Information is displayed in a clear and understandable format to support making effective decisions
• Clear and concise output is essential for effective communication within the crew and with shore-based personnel
• Internal and external hard drives are used to store amounts of Data
• Solid-state drives (SSDs) are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives
• Data stored on remote servers that are accessible through the internet utilizes cloud storage

Stages of Data Processing: Security and Backup

• Data encryption protects data from unauthorized access
• Access control restricts access to sensitive data to authorized personnel
• Regular backups create copies of data to prevent data loss in case of hardware failure or other unforeseen events
• Disaster recovery plans are procedures for recovering data and systems in the event of a major incident

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Plan Maintenance System (PMS)

• To proactively manage the maintenance of shipboard equipment in order to prevent equipment failures as well as to minimize downtime and ensure overall safety and reliability of the vessel and comply with regulatory requirements
• Reduced downtime to prevent breakdowns that minimized disruption of operations
• Reduced maintenance costs by optimizing repair schedules and reducing emergency repairs
• Increased that critical equipment always functions which enhances ship safety
• Improved equipment performance and reduces fuel consumption

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: PMS Features

• Creates and manages work orders for scheduled maintenance tasks during work order generation
• Tracks the progress of work orders from initiation to completion
• Tracks inventory of spare parts during spare parts management
• Automatically re-orders requests for parts
• Optimizes spare parts inventory to minimize costs and prevent shortages
• Schedules regular maintenance tasks that depend on manufacturer recommendations and equipment type and hours
• Generates maintenance alert reminders
• Equipment information is maintained for manufacturer model serial number and service history
• Generate maintenance reports related to costs equipment performance and metrics
• Provides data for analysis to identify improvement areas and optimize for efficiency

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Email Communication System (AMOS Connect)

• Facilitates communication with shore-based personnel and agents
• Enables efficient communication within the crew from watch changes, safety alerts and operational updates
• Information is readily available to share relevant information on weather and technical bulletins
• Exchange documentation and invoicing more readily with ease
• Core Functionality and file attachments for sending as well as receiving data
• Contact information Is streamlined in a simple and easy quick email accessible interface

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Word Processing

• Use cases include creating reports on various aspects of ship operations, such as voyage reports, maintenance reports, and safety reports
• Compose letters, memos, and other official documents when writing documents
• Enable logbook entries that are professional
• develop presentations for crew training or safety briefings

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Basic Word Processing Features

• Features include changing font size, style, and color when formatting the text
• Apply bold, italics, and underline to text
• Headings and sub-headings can be created and formatted at various hierarchy
• Paragraph indent
• Bulleted lists can be created for simple organisation
• Spell check includes identifying and correcting spelling errors
• Grammar and error suggestions are made using built in grammar check tools
• Various document saver options are available to allow users to save doc or pdf

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Spreadsheet Applications

• Analyzing fuel consumption data
• Tracking maintenance costs
• Data insights of evaluating crew performance
• Sums average and percentages can be readily produced
• Creating budgets and forecasts using existing and forecast data
• Tracking inventory levels
• Monitoring vessel performance indicators

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Basic Spreadsheet applications

• Ability to perform calculations using formulas such as SUM, AVERAGE, IF, VLOOKUP
• Utilise charts and graphs to visualise existing datasets: Bar, pie or line charts depend
• Sorting can be performed in an ascending or descending order
• Apply filter criteria to display specific data

Computer Software Used Onboard Ships: Other

• The Electronic Chart Display as well as an information system is essential for safe navigation
• Able to display electronic nautical charts
• Calculates plots courses and integrates data from many sensors: GPS Radar and AIS
• ERMs that monitor and control engine room operations
• Energy efficiency which assists and helps to monitor and improve efficiency standards
• Calculates efficiency ratings to assist and help improve and improve ship performance