Android smartphone and tablet users who feel like donating some of their processing power to scientific endeavors can now do so by using an app. The app is called Boinc, which stands for Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing. The project has been around since 2002, and scientists behind the project recently developed an application for Android users.
How Boinc Works
The Android application allows users to volunteer spare processing power to one of six different programs. Among those available programs are Einstein@Home and FightAIDS@Home. The Einstein project will use the distributed power to analyze data from the world’s largest radio telescope in Puerto Rico to hunt for radio pulsars. This project is particularly significant as it helps in the discovery of new celestial bodies and enhances our understanding of the universe.
The AIDS program is hosted by the IBM World Community Grid and allows the extra processing power to be used in anti-AIDS drug discovery. The power will also be used to study multi-drug resistance in the HIV virus. This is crucial in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, as it can lead to the development of more effective treatments and potentially a cure.
Once the app is downloaded, users can specify which project they want to donate their processing capacity to. The app only works when the battery life is over a certain level, such as 90% by default, and the device is connected to a power source and to a Wi-Fi network. This ensures that the app does not drain the device’s battery or use up mobile data, making it a convenient option for users who want to contribute to scientific research without any hassle.
Additional Projects and Benefits
In addition to Einstein@Home and FightAIDS@Home, Boinc supports several other projects. For example, Rosetta@Home focuses on protein structure prediction, which is vital for understanding diseases and developing new medications. Another project, SETI@Home, searches for extraterrestrial intelligence by analyzing radio signals from space. These projects highlight the diverse range of scientific research that Boinc supports, from medical advancements to space exploration.
The benefits of using Boinc extend beyond contributing to scientific research. By participating in these projects, users become part of a global community of volunteers who are making a difference. This sense of community and purpose can be incredibly rewarding. Additionally, users can track their contributions and see the impact they are making, which adds an element of personal satisfaction.
Moreover, Boinc is designed to be user-friendly. The app provides detailed information about each project, allowing users to make informed decisions about where to allocate their processing power. The interface is intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate and manage their contributions. This accessibility ensures that anyone with an Android device can participate, regardless of their technical expertise.
In conclusion, Boinc offers Android users a unique opportunity to contribute to important scientific research. By donating spare processing power, users can support a variety of projects, from searching for extraterrestrial life to developing new treatments for diseases. The app is designed to be convenient and user-friendly, ensuring that anyone can participate without any hassle. By joining the Boinc community, users can make a meaningful impact on the world while enjoying the satisfaction of contributing to groundbreaking research.
via ZDNet
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