Solar energy is rapidly gaining popularity as an important means of expanding renewable energy resources. As such, it is vital that those in engineering fields understand the technologies associated with this area. This paper presents the design and construction of a microcontrollerbased solar panel tracking system. Solar tracking allows more energy to be produced because the solar array is able to remain aligned to the sun. A working system will ultimately be demonstrated to validate the design. Problems and possible improvements will also be presented.

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Based on recent trends, Cognitive Radio paradigm has become an integral part of future communication networks of which Wireless Sensor Network is an integral part. However, Cognitive Radio (CR) introduces critical issues that have to be addressed for communication in networks to be achieved. Routing, being the core of communication, has to be critically examined within the context of Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks. In this chapter, the authors discuss relevant issues on the topic of routing in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks (CRSN). As a basis, a general overview of routing in the Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is made. The applicability of these protocols in CRSN is discussed and the need for integrating Opportunistic Spectrum Access components into existing Wireless Sensor Network protocols is exposed. Factors affecting routing in CRSN are outlined with an emphasis on a cross layering design approach based on a generalized framework. Recent works in this respect are categorized, and finally, open issues in need for research attention are pinpointed.

Based on recent trends, Cognitive Radio paradigm has become an integral part of future communication networks of which Wireless Sensor Network is an integral part. However, Cognitive Radio (CR) introduces critical issues that have to be addressed for communication in networks to be achieved. Routing, being the core of communication, has to be critically examined within the context of Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks. In this chapter, the authors discuss relevant issues on the topic of routing in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks (CRSN). As a basis, a general overview of routing in the Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is made. The applicability of these protocols in CRSN is discussed and the need for integrating Opportunistic Spectrum Access components into existing Wireless Sensor Network protocols is exposed. Factors affecting routing in CRSN are outlined with an emphasis on a cross layering design approach based on a generalized framework. Recent works in this respect are categorized, and finally, open issues in need for research attention are pinpointed.