Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Disaster can have adverse effect on human lives. The importance of access to electricity

cannot be over-emphasized in the aftermath of a disaster. In a situation such as this, electric

power is essential for virtually every urban and economic function. Failures of electric power,

whether from or due to disaster, can cause severe and widespread societal and economic

disruption (Keranja, 2016).

In country like Kenya almost 70 percent of electricity is generated by two water-

dependent sources: hydropower and fossil fuels. The disaster has caused Kenya's reserve energy

margin - the amount of energy needed to meet peak demands - to drop to 4.4 percent, far lower

than the recommended 15 percent needed to minimize risk of blackouts (Business Daily, 2016).

Africa is considered and referred as the “Sun Continent “or the continent where the Sun’s

influence is the greatest. Despite the large solar potential, due to disaster the penetration of solar

power in Africa’s energy sector is still very low (Solar Power World Online, 2010).

Last November 08, 2013, thousands of lives were shaken and even lost when Typhoon

Yolanda hit the Philippines. This was aid to be the one of the strongest typhoon that ever truck

the world. The typhoon hit the Philippines specifically in visayas. Heavy rains and strong winds

tore down homes, buildings and a causes a wideshutdown of electricity in all affected areas

(Hudson, 2016).
 After these basic human survival essentials, restoring some kind of power is also vital

element to disaster response. It is needed to keep over stretched hospitals running, provide light

to restore order at night, provide a warmth if needed and power for vital communications

(Business Daily, 2016).

Solar powered radios are not new anymore it is the best solution to radio lifeline dying in

the middle of an emergency— solar powered devices will not quit when regular batteries do.

Furthermore, most emergency radios have been built with a small array of features to further

support the event of a survival scenario. Referring to the other radios there are existing solar

powered radios with flashlights but without the presence of sound alarm which is very helpful in

times of emergency.

In times of crisis or natural calamities, communication is very important that is why

Radio has social impact and provides access to information. The immediate accessibility of radio

frequencies is essential to save lives. In the locality specifically in Brgy. Taguibo, Davao

Oriental, the locals often experience power interruption. In line with this problem are the

possibilities that before, during, and after disaster those families located in remote areas of the

locality cannot easily receive warning signals or information because of two factors. First, they

do not have electricity to charge radios because of continuous power interruption. Second is that

they do not have enough budget to buy batteries. This research study might be a great help to

those families who are located in remote areas. This study would help them to gather information

easily despite of power interruption and low signal quality. This would be a great help to those

locals who cannot afford to buy batteries for their radios.

Statement of the Problem

This research study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Solar Energy as a source of

Power for Disaster Radio.

Specifically, it sought to answer the questions:

1. How long does the Disaster Radio be fully charged?

2. How many hours does the Disaster Radio work?

Objectives of the Study

This study is anchored by two main objectives:

1. To create a Disaster Radio out of the recycled materials.

2. To test the duration of the Disaster Rad

Conceptual Framework

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Disaster Radio Effectiveness of Disaster Radio

(Time Duration)

Figure 1:

Conceptual Framework of the Study

 The figure shown above is the conceptual framework of the study. It indicates the

independent variable which is the Disaster Radio and the dependent variable which is The

Effectiveness of Disaster Radio in terms of time.

The Conceptual Framework served as the guide in conducting this study. The researchers

gather the data based on the location.

Scope and Delimitation

The main purpose is to test the effectiveness as well as to help the locals of Barangay

Taguibo through the use of Disaster Radio. The study was conducted in Lemente Villagr, Brgy.

Central Mati City and intended to the people of Barangay Taguibo. The study is anchored in

identifying how long the disaster radio would last and how useful it is when it comes to natural

calamities. This study yearned to identify how the researchers can develop and assist the Disaster

Radio due to its effectivity.

It is delimited to the circumstance that the study may not cover all the radio stations in

the locality.

Significance of the Study

This research study aimed to help the following:

Locals of Barangay Taguibo

This study would be very helpful to the people of Barangay Taguibo. This would also

serve as the key information for them. This would help the locals before, during and after natural

calamities for them to be prepared and respond quickly..

Barangay Officials

This study would be very useful for the Barangay Officials especially to the Disaster

Action Team of the barangay because this study would help them to receive information easily

before, during and after natural calamities.

Future Researchers

This study may serve as a reference for the future researchers who would plan to continue

this study. This would guide them in conducting their research study.

Definition of Terms

Disaster –It is a sudden event, such as an accident or a natural catastrophe, that causes great

damage or loss of life. (Oxford Dictionary, n.d.). In this study, a disaster is used as a

possible situation where the Disaster Radio could perform its function.

Radio - It is defined by the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves of radio

frequency, especially those carrying sound messages (Oxford Dictionary, n.d.). In this

study, a radio would be the use as a primary material in this study.

Solar Energy – It is a radiant energy emitted by the sun (Oxford Dictionary, n.d.). In this study,

the solar energy is used to be the source of power for the Disaster Radio.

Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This part presents different literatures and studies of Disaster Radio, including the

features of radio, advantages of radio, and contributions of solar panels.

Features of Radio

Radio is one publicizing medium that aides in communicating. These days it is in

incredible interest since low pay gatherings can likewise purchase the radio sets. Individuals like

tuning in the radio as it gives all helpful data like news, gossip about film star and tips for kids in

drawing. Individuals can hear the most recent music. With the assistance of radio communication

representative can without much of stretch arrive at an enormous mass of individuals in different

pieces of the nation to publicize their item [CITATION BusOrg19 \l 1033 ].

 Radio is extraordinary compared to other specialized apparatuses that can convey new

music and modern news. It may likewise be contended to be the one medium that advantages

everybody as one does not need to be educated to connect with it. So also, radio can enhance

numerous if the correct sources are utilized for data, instruction and simulation [ CITATION

Upd13 \l 1033 ]. It is a device that is cheaper and most easy to find kind of medium [ CITATION

Chand1 \l 1033 ]. It also stands to prolong power outage [ CITATION Com16 \l 1033 ] . Radio is the

best communication tools and it is one of the medium that benefits everyone [ CITATION Mar19 \l

1033 ].

The different features of Radio are the main reasons why the researchers select radio as a

primary device in this study because aside from it is convenient when it comes to disaster it is

also not costly and also easy to find that is why Radio is the best primary device to use in this

study. The researchers also believe that the Radio is the best device to be used because it have

been proven in different articles that would justify the importance of Radio in natural calamities.

Advantages of Radio

Radio is the most useful device that be used in disaster because locals cannot be isolated

since radios have their own channel that no one else has[ CITATION Hig141 \l 1033 ].

It offers wide reach, target group of spectator’s selectivity, and opportune

messages[ CITATION Kok181 \l 1033 ] . It has great deal of focal points. Typically, it is less

expensive than other media, it very well may be gone for a restricted crowd and can contract

individuals inside this group of spectators in any place[ CITATION Esend1 \l 1033 ]. When disaster

strikes, radio allows broadcast news to relay information when people do not have access to

other different digital device[ CITATION Eme14 \l 1033 ]. Radio is the most powerful device in
terms of communication because it can access those people who are located in remote

areas[ CITATION Kar161 \l 1033 ].

Contributions of Solar Panels

Solar panel have a big contribution to the environment because it would save money in

the aspect of energy bills[ CITATION Altnd \l 1033 ]. It gives efficient energy source at an

inexpensive cost to satisfy the energy requirements[ CITATION Med191 \l 1033 ]. There is a little

need for maintenance for solar panels. Once mounted, they just need to keep them once a year

and they are washed at this stage[ CITATION Pur171 \l 1033 ]. Solar panels are very useful in

remote areas because it produced electricity[ CITATION Clend \l 1033 ].

The main features of solar panels ensure that people can save costs on the energy bills,

while making a positive contribution to the environment. However, there are a number of other

unique features, and it is these that make these panels so attractive (PurSolar, 2017).

In this study solar panels plays a big role because it is the source of power for the

Disaster Radio. The different contributions of Solar Panels in today’s generation convince the

researchers to use it as a source of power for this study The researchers believed that the solar

panels are the best device to be used because aside from it is easy to find it can also save costs on

the energy bills which is an advantage to the locals in the area because they would not spend big

amount of money for that Disaster Radio.

Summary

Radio allows people to hear broadcast news during an emergency an emergency when

they do not have ready access to a working phone, computer, TV, or grid-related digital devices.
Radios that can be powered without output electricity can go a long way in an emergency when

the power goes out. Emergency radios also have shortwave capabilities. Radios remain the only

way to hear broadcast news without relying upon satellite or cable service.

Radios are the most reliable way to personally communicate with the people outside

immediate area. It can be operated from anywhere in which they can be powerful, enabling the

locals to disseminate the information form local, regional, and international. It is also good

choice for emergency communications because they are cheaper compared to other devices. It

functions even if power outrages happen.

In the midst of disaster, electric power is often the first to go. Within minutes, the loss of

this critical service can result in widespread panic when houses and businesses become abruptly

dark, gasoline cannot be pumped to fuel emergency vehicles and communication with loved ones

is limited. Solar Panel is very useful to give power to any devices. This would give power before,

during, and after disaster.

In conclusion, the combination of radio and solar panel is very useful in times to disaster

because of the advantages and features that are presented. If one of the materials is not present

the study would not be possible. Each material has its own purpose.
 Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

In this chapter, the researchers discussed the locale and duration of the study, materials to

be used, procedure, method used, and data gathering and analysis.

Research Design

The research design of this study is a descriptive experimental type to test the

effectiveness of Disaster Radio and to obtain the data needed by the researchers. It aimed to test

the effectiveness and how useful is the Disaster Radio in terms of natural calamities.
Furthermore the researchers aimed to know the other problems or factors that may affect the

effectiveness and usefulness of the Disaster Radio.

Locale and Duration of the Study

Figure 2. Map of the Location of the Study

The research took place at Lemente Village Barangay Central, Mati City, Province of

Davao Oriental, where locals mostly experience power interruptions and low signal quality

which are the hindrance why they cannot receive information immediately.

Materials

Hookup Wire

Used Push Button

1 Solar Panel Kit

1 Used Radio Kit

 1 Used Power Storage

Used flashlight

1 Casing (Lunch Box)

1 Flat Cord no. 18

Research Procedures

This part discusses the different methods in making the Disaster Radio. The process

includes the following steps:

Preparation of the Materials and Devices

The researchers prepared the different materials that were needed in the working field.

The researchers prepared the materials which included old radio, recycled solar panel from

damage calculators, wirings, power storage and cables.

Connecting the Old Radio and Solar Panel

In this process, the researchers connected the old radio and solar panel because in order to

power an old radio, power supply is needed. Also solar panel was defined as a device that

converts light energy to electrical energy (Iswbeck,2014)

Connecting the Solar Panel and Power Storage

The power storage was connected to solar panel. In order to store power supply, it is

needed to have a device that stores power which is called power storage.

Disaster Radio Testing

 In this process the researchers tested the capacity and effectiveness of Disaster Radio.

The researchers followed a testing pattern which is from fully charged to low battery and vice

versa. The researchers used the testing pattern for four times and used the average weighted

mean formula in analyzing the gathered data.

Data Collection

The researchers collected the data through observation. The researchers observed how

many hours, days, or week the Disaster Radio would last. In order to test the time duration, the

researchers tested the Disaster Radio for four times from low battery to full battery. The

researchers also tested the capacity of the Disaster Radio on how useful it is as a primary device

before, during, and after natural calamities.

Data Analysis

The researchers proceeded to the data analysis where they evaluated and interpreted the

gathered data and answered the research questions of this study.

The researchers used the weighted mean value formula in order to have the needed data

that is the average time of the Disaster Radio. The average weighted mean is a tool to calculate

the average and dividing it by the same total number of observations.

 Chapter IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter presents, analyzes and interprets the data gathered in this research study.

The various results were presented in the succeeding table with corresponding discussions and

explanations.

Table 1:Testing the Disaster Radio from Low Battery to Full Charged(February 08, 09,10
and 11, 2020) (7 am - 2:30 pm)
 Testing Type Time Duration Time Duration Time Duration Time Duration
Low Battery to 8 ½ Hrs. 7 ½ Hrs. 8 ¼ Hrs. 8 ½ Hrs.
Full Charged
Average Time: 8.19

Table 1 presents the data gathered during the four consecutive testing of the Disaster

Radio from Low Battery to Full Charged.

Using critical observation the researchers have gathered the data as follow; 81/2 hours

that the radio lasted in the first testing, 7 1/2 hours that the radio lasted in the second testing, 8

1/4 hours that the radio lasted in the third testing and lastly 8 1/2 hours that the radio lasted in the

fourth testing.

After the testing process of the Disaster Radio from Low Battery to Full Charged, the

researchers found out that in the second testing the Disaster Radio only lasted for 7 1/2 hours due

to the weather condition that time which is one of the factor that would affect the hours that the

Disaster Radio to be fully charged. The standard time duration of the Disaster Radio from Low

Battery to Full Charged is approximately 8.19 which means that it needs eight hours direct

sunlight for the Disaster Radio to be fully charged.

Wreglesworth (2019) stated that solar panel take 7-8 “full sun” hours per day depending

on the different factors for it to be fully charged.In most cases, a solar panel that produces 1 amp

of current takes 5-8 hours or more by keeping the solar panel pointed directly to the sun

(Saamok, 2020). A direct hit from the sun for 8-9 hours would be enough for the solar panel to

be fully charged but depending also on the different factors such as the weather (Lawrence,

2018). Sakshi (2010) also stated that the charging of solar panel really depend if the solar panel
really received enough heat from the sun but most probably it takes a 6 up to 8 hours charging

depending on how big the battery is. One day is an average charging time duration for a bigger

solar panel but for the small solar panel it only take 4-7 hours as long as it receives a direct hit

from the sun (Lewiss, 2016). In conclusion, based on the gathered data of the Disaster Radio

from Low Battery to Full Charged and also based on the support articles that the researched

gathered the Disaster Radio really needs 8 hours full sun for it to be fully charged.

Table 2: Testing of the Disaster Radio from Full Charge to Low Battery (February 08, 09,
10 and 11, 2020) (4 pm - 10 pm)
Testing Type Time Duration Time Duration Time Duration Time Duration
Full Charge to 6 ¾ Hrs. 4 ½ Hrs. 5 1/3 Hrs. 7 ¼ Hrs.
Low Battery
Average Time: 5.94

The table shows the data collected during the four testing of the Disaster Radio. In

gathering the needed data the researchers used the critical observation throughout the conducting

process.

Using critical observation the researchers have gathered the data as follow; 6 3/4 hours

that the radio lasted in the first testing, 4 1/2 hours that the radio lasted in the second testing, 5

1/3 hours that the radio lasted in the third testing and lastly 7 1/4 hours that the radio lasted in

the fourth testing.

Based on the gathered data, out of four testing of the Disaster Radio from Full Charged to

Low Battery, the researchers found out that the standard time duration of the Disaster Radio from
Full Charged to Low Battery is 5. 94 which implies that the capacity of the Disaster Radio is

approximately six hours compared to the other radio that works only for four and half hours.

According to Mayes (2011) that the performance of a solar powered object is not based

on how long the panel is being put under the sun as lit is based on how long the solar powered

object being used. A solar powered radio is intended to last as many hours as possible on a single

charge (Kaito, 2019). Solar Powered radios will provide between four to six hours while others

may be able to to provide up to eight hours of work with the radio (Sangean, 2019). A higher

volume and a bright flashlight could reduce the work capacity in a day of the solar powered

radios (Arditi, 2017). The working hours of the radio depend on how the owner used the volume

and light (Kuusisto, 2019). In conclusion, the working time of the solar powered radio depend on

the different factors like; how long does the disaster radio being put under the sun, the weather

condition and also how the owner use the volume and the lights because the higher the volume

is, the lesser the hours that the disaster radio would work.

Summary of Discussion

Advances of technology have given people more ways to access an increase amount of

information (Levine, 2011). There are many uses of radio in everyday living. One of its uses is to

get information locally or internationally. It allows people to be aware of happenings around

them. One of the aim of this study is not only letting other people to get information from radio

but also to let the people to have an Disaster Radio which is more efficient and more budget

friendly compared to other radios because it uses recycled materials. Aside from more efficient
and budget friendly, this Disaster Radio has a unique feature in which you can call or get

someone's attention by using its alarm system which can be used during disasters.

Based from the results of the experiment, the researchers found out that this Disaster

Radio can be an alternative radio during disasters because it will only took about 8 hours to be

fully charged and it will lasts up about 6 hours of usage.

In general, Disaster Radio helps not only those people in community but also those

people who are rescuers or volunteers during disaster because through this Disaster Radio, it

allows the rescuers' duty to be more easier. In conclusion, this Disaster Radio is a dihybrid type

in which it can be used in daily living and in times of disaster.

Chapter V

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the conclusions and recommendations of the research study

Conclusion
 In times of natural calamities, radio remains accessible when other modes of

communication go down in emergencies. Radio is most important to local communities for more

than just emergency announcements and communication during disaster.

In answering the research questions about how long will the charging time of the disaster

radio and how long will it work in a day, based on the critical observation of the researchers on

the time duration of the Disaster Radio, there is an observed difference between the solar

powered radio and the battery powered radio in terms of hours.

In terms of the effectiveness of the Disaster Radio, it is observed that it is really effective

because it really works from the radio that being used, flashlight and up to the alarm being

attached to the disaster radio.

In general, the time duration of the Disaster Radio has a big difference compared to the

radios powered by batteries. It is not costly because it is solar powered, it only needs 8 hours full

sun for it to be fully charged. It is really helpful in times of natural calamities.

Recommendations

 The researchers recommend to the future researchers to use both AM and FM

broadcast as a recyclable radio kit as its parts of the innovative disaster radio.

 The researchers recommend to further enhance and develop the sound alarm by

using a censor or motion detector alarm.

 Upgrade the disaster radio kit by attaching survival kit inside and use equal of

voltage in any parts.

 The researchers recommend to the Disaster Action Team of Barangay Taguibo to

use this technology since they are the one who mostly experience power

interruption and low signal quality which can be a hindrance in receiving

information during natural calamities.