Definition of

Technology

Padlock

When using computer technology on a daily basis, it is essential to take cybersecurity into account.

Technology is the application of a set of knowledge and skills with the aim of achieving a solution that allows humans to solve a specific problem and satisfy a need in a specific area.

Based on this meaning, we find that the concept can include a wide number of modalities or disciplines such as computer science , robotics , home automation , pneumatics , electronics , urban automation and building automation , among many others.

Before moving forward with the analysis of the word technology , it is interesting to discover its etymological origin. Specifically, it resides in Greek and more exactly in the union of two words: ΤεΧνολόϒος, which would be translated as "art" , and λόϒος, which is synonymous with "treaty" .

Uses of technology

Technology is present in all areas of daily life. In one way or another, almost all the activities we carry out throughout the day involve the use of some technological device .

The notion of technology is linked to the set of knowledge that allows us to manufacture objects and modify the environment , which is done with the intention of satisfying some need .

Technology can be understood as the practical application of knowledge generated by science . In colloquial language, however, technology is linked to computer technology , which is that which enables the processing of information through artificial means such as computers .

Troubleshooting

A technological device emerges when there is a specific need to be solved. To find a solution to the problem in question, scientists analyze the issue and work with various materials until they find a way to design an appropriate device . After designing a prototype, it is manufactured. Technology, then, encompasses this process, from the detection of the initial need to the specific application of the created device.

This breadth allows us to understand that technology, in itself, is neither good nor bad. Technology can be used to improve the productivity of human work, reduce physical effort and increase the quality of life of the population, but technology can also cause social differences (depending on the technological knowledge acquired), pollute the environment and cause unemployment (workers are replaced by machines).

Electric car

Electric vehicles using lithium -ion batteries are part of a transportation technology that is in full development.

Technology in everyday life

Technology is constantly appearing in our daily lives. With mobile devices , which are already in their fifth generation ( 5G ), people have access to a huge range of applications and services at their fingertips.

With a smartphone, it is possible to buy any product through e-commerce or share images and other content through social networks , for example. Digital cameras, touch screens and voice or facial recognition systems are a reality that, a few decades ago, was unthinkable.

The same can be said of wireless communications in general and GPS , other technologies in daily use. Hardware resources (such as processors and semiconductors) and software (operating systems, mobile applications) are becoming more advanced and closer to people.

Data storage in cloud computing , which allows information to be stored in a virtual environment accessible via the Internet ; drones that make it possible to record images from above; and video calls used in virtual meetings and telemedicine are also among the technologies that are commonly used today.

Orthopedics

Bionic prostheses and artificial organs are medical advances achieved thanks to technology.

Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is a form of production based on the adoption of automation technologies, interconnectivity and real-time data analysis. In this way, a transformation of the value chain is achieved.

Artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality , augmented reality , big data and machine learning are some of the tools that characterize Industry 4.0. Its purpose is to optimize efficiency and increase productivity .

Technology and outer space

Outer space is becoming increasingly known to humans thanks to innovation and technological development . Although it is an almost unexplored territory, space technology has contributed to generating important knowledge.

From telescopes to space stations , and even rocket launches for exploration, there are many technological resources that aim to expand knowledge about space. The use of technology even goes beyond the strictly scientific and there are already companies investigating alternatives to space tourism .

The term linked to art and science

However, in addition to everything highlighted above, we must also make it clear that this is not the only meaning of the word technology. Thus, it has other meanings, such that on other occasions this concept is used to refer in a general way to the language that is used either in an art or in a science.

And this without forgetting that, in the same way, this term is used to refer to the set of instruments , and even industrial procedures, that are used in a given sector to carry out its tasks.