Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 107

Abstract: Although, most researchers focus on some of the key components of good digital wireless communications which are the Bit Error Rate (BER) versus Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) of modulation schemes. Energy consumption optimization is necessary for enhancing the performance of a wireless communication system as it offers numerous advantages to the system and the users. Therefore, this research focuses on analyzing the efficiency in the performance of the various QAM Modulation Schemes (4QAM, 16QAM, 32QAM & 64QAM) as they travel over noise/fading channels with the quest to obtain an energy-efficient scheme which will enhance system performance in terms of system runtime and quality of service. The efficiency of any given process, operation, or device is rated per the energy it consumes in carrying out an activity per unit output. Hence, the objective of this research work is to study and analyze comparatively the efficiency of these modulation schemes and to conclude with the most efficient scheme over the various channels. The evaluation of the Bit Error Rate (BER) versus energy per bit to noise spectral density (EbNo) for each communication scenario was carried out in MATLAB.

Abstract: This paper presents solar PV electric cooking systems to fill the gap of clean energy stove demand in Africa and in particular in rural communities. The design analyses of four different solar PV electric cooking configurations, based on resistive burner and induction burner, are presented. The levelised cost of energy (LCOE) of the solar PV induction e-cooking, with battery storage, is 0.39 $/kWh. Sensitivity analysis was done to ascertain the affordability range of solar PV e-cooking. It was shown that the combination of the reduced cost of investment and good sunshine would most likely make the solar PV induction e-cooking competitive. However, the acceptability of the solar PV induction cooking will require addressing some important technical, economic, policy and socio-cultural related barriers.

Abstract: Globally, the construction industry is a catalyst for economic development. This is because it is the bedrock for economic activities. Over the years, the construction industry has been criticised for under-performing which brings about a decline in productivity. In order to improve construction project performance for infrastructural delivery, there are factors to be considered, inter alia, construction material related factors, construction machinery related factors, and project management related factors. In achieving this objective, a questionnaire survey was expedited to purposive practioners to evaluate the relative importance index of these factors. The paper reveals that in the category of construction material related factors, unsuitable locations for material and late delivery of construction materials topped the list with a MS value of 4.53 and 4.15, respectively; in the category of construction machinery related factors, poor maintenance of tools and machinery and difficulties in hiring construction tools and machinery topped the list with a MS value of 4.54 and 4.50, respectively; while in the category of project management related factors, efficient time management and project quality management topped the list with a MS value of 4.83 and 4.70, respectively. In addition, performance improvement factors were also highlighted.

Abstract: This study focused on the overview and assessment of housing demand with its contemporary challenge in Nigeria and South Africa with intention to understand vivid condition of housing on habitants. From observation, people population stage a concise challenge on housing demand as a result of commercial and industrial activities. Notably, it was observed that housing issues brought visibility on economic, environmental and political atmosphere.