Date: Jan 01, 2012 Source: ARMY SBIR Success Story (
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The pervasive use of smartphones and other communication devices with photographic capability causes significant information and physical security risks in and around sensitive facilities. The ever present push for smaller devices complicates the efforts of physical security organizations to determine if personnel entering a facility have one or more devices in their possession. Nonetheless, wireless devices will continue to grow in number and shrink in size. Therefore, the Army has the need to develop radio transceivers with short-range detection capabilities to combat these risks in support of physical security measures.
Vadum utilized its extensive experience with active detection technology and target device construction and characteristics to maximize project success in the SBIR program. Vadum developed an active detection technique that extracts a unique signature from the devices reducing false alarms and has been shown to effectively detect all types of transceivers tested. This technique utilizes inherent properties of the electronic circuitry in the target devices, detection of devices can occur regardless of the power state (on/off) or whether the devices are actively transmitting or receiving intended signals.
This capability will provide improved protection at secure sites and restricted areas where the presence of a communications link represents a severe threat to information and physical security. Comparable profits apply to commercial uses of this equipment in the area of security and information protection. With a development path to man-portable units, the active detection technology may find use in mobile RF transceiver detection for short-range device location applications in: intelligence, non-line-of-sight (non-LOS) personnel tracking and wireless communications situational responsiveness.
Technology Transition:
The Navy Explosive Ordnance Technology Division, a field activity of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) invested $3Min Phase III funds in this technology. The Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization has invested approximately $1.5M in Vadum towards an outdoor detection program focused on a variety of wireless remote control devices.
