Web-based systems design: a study of contemporary practices and an explanatory framework based on “method-in-action”

This paper reports the findings of a detailed study of Web-based systems design (WBSD) practices in Ireland based on data collected over a 3-year period (2002–2005), the objectives of which were to (1) contribute towards a richer understanding of the current “real-world” context of WBSD by characterising the profile of a typical project (team size, timeframe, nature of requirements, etc.) and identifying the key challenges, constraints, and imperatives (i.e. “mediating factors”) faced by Web-based system designers, and (2) understand how those contextual parameters and mediating factors influence the activity of WBSD as regards the selection and enactment of whatever design practices are therefore engaged (i.e. the use of methods, procedures, etc.). Data was gathered through a survey which yielded 165 usable responses, and later through a series of semi-structured qualitative interviews. Using grounded theory, an explanatory conceptual framework is derived, based on an extension of the “method-in-action” model, the application of which to WBSD has not been previously investigated in depth. It is proposed that this framework of WBSD issues is valuable in a number of ways to educators, researchers, practitioners, and method engineers.     

Design aspects of planar and conventional SMPS transformer: a cost benefit analysis

The intent of this paper is to design a high-frequency transformer that is to be incorporated into the DC/DC pulsewidth-modulated switch-mode power supplies by two different technical approaches: a conventional wound-coil magnetic using copper wires, and a planar magnetic with layered copper tracks on laminated printed circuit board. Comparisons will be made between the two approaches in terms of profile: mounting height and surface area, and performance: power losses and efficiency. Other indicators like temperature rise and leakage inductance that causes electromagnetic interference, and cost, materials, and process fluency are also to be looked into. A sandwiched configuration for primary and secondary windings is proposed for the planar type. Issues arising and typical phenomena encountered will be discussed in detail. Primarily, the dominating factor in performance, cost effectiveness, or circuit compactness that restrains the choice of a particular type is to be evaluated.     

The prospects of non-volatile phase-change RAM

Phase-change read-and-write memory (PRAM) is a promising memory that can solve the problems of conventional memory—scalability, read/write speed, and reliability. We will review the opportunities and technical challenges of PRAM. The most important challenge of PRAM is the reduction of the writing current. Various approaches to reduce the writing current will be reviewed and the prospects of PRAM are discussed.