IIT's K-Yan: a new learning device

Aiming at merging technology with education, IL&FS Education & Technology Services along with IIT-Bombay has developed an integrated system with built-in computer, monitor, DVD player, projector and stereo system.

Professor Kirti Trivedi of the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay is the brain behind the device.

"This Compact Media Centre is called K-Yan and it has been developed specifically targeting group and community learning, especially in the rural areas," IL&FS ETS managing director Hari Sankaran said.

K-Yan has been priced at Rs 1.5 lakh (Rs 150,000) and aims at bringing the benefits of information age to the masses, he said.

The product is equipped with extra solar energy-based portable power supply to enable use in areas with no electricity.

"A single unit can cater to the teaching needs of an entire class, and substantially reduce cost of computerizing schools," he said, adding that "the integration of various functions not only allows students to learn how to use a computer, but also other subjects, and crafts."

It can also work as a low-cost, hi-fi home entertainment system. The Compact Media Centre can beam a computer screen or a television channel on to a wall, thus obviating the need for a screen.

Sankaran said the company has already started marketing the products through its distribution network and targets to sell up to 5,000 units by the end of this year.

"K-Yan is easy to use, has multilingual facilities, and eliminates the need for investing in other media hardware."

Asked if the company plans to export this product, Sankaran said, "The domestic market itself is huge. Once we meet the domestic demand, we would think overseas."