-
Sandia develops an imporved sensor network
The future — well, a part of it at least — belongs to sensor networks; rsearchers at Sandia Natioal Lab have developed the unattended ground sensor (UGS), and system whcih combines off-the-shelf components with in-house developed elements to create a better andre useful network; investors and manufacturers may want to make the lab an offer for the technology
-
-
DHS inspector general turns up the heat
Arrest and conviction rates for post-Katrina contracting fraud are skryrocketing, even as total complaints decrease; impressive new zealousness strikes fear into the unethical, but the lawyers are happy; DHS has more than 2,500 open cases pending
-
-
IBM gives Cook County a boost with cruiser-linked infrastructure surveillance
Cameras from Panasonic and Pelco are wirelessly connected to in-car screens and DVRs; Project Shield aims to protect 126 sites at a cost of only $900,000
-
-
Research shows early detection of earthquake magnitude possible
Italian researchers find string correlation between strength of primary wave and the damage resulting from the secondary wave; basic math now permits 10-15 seconds warning time for those near the epicenter; early warning could trigger emergency response mechanisms
-
-
Los Alamos looks to create self-disabling nuclear warheads
Under a secret three year program, scientists have been working on methods to automatically destroy a warhead if it is stolen or tampered with; though details are secret, method might involve an acid that destroys the mechanisms and contaminates the radiactive core
-
-
DoE inspector general rips into Los Alamos
Gregory Friedman notes severe inadequecies in cybersecurity and document management procedures; recent breaches spark review and needed changes; a look back in time shows security a longtime problem at the lab; reminiscing with Richard Feynman presents needed context
-
-
Maine to host maritime security course for first responders
Classes will take place at the Maine Maritime Academy in Castine; the 100 expected participants were chosen by local emergency authorities; pilot program may establish Maine course as the nationwide gold standard
-
-
PCII takes on new partners, issues new rules
Protected Critical Infrastructure Information brings aboard Massachusetts, California, Texas, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; new rules address privacy and data submission concerns
-
-
Canada Foundation for Innovation awards homeland security grants
Research into protecting infrastructure and developing new energy sources receive special attention; hundreds of million of Canadian dollars awarded for a wide range of scientific endeavors; Universities of Toronto and Calgary among winners
-
-
Error rates cause havoc for TWIC roll-out
One percent error rate is fine for HSPD-12, but FIPS-201 sensitivity may cause problems at ports; long lines and delays are expected, and port officials are steaming
-
-
Control Products seeks patent for anti-RPG parachute
System is launched from rocket tubes attached to a vehicle or arrayed around a perimeter; Kevlar parachutes snag incoming RPGs; reloading as simple as replacing rockets
-
-
Smarter Security Systems launches new outdoor DVR line
Temperature-hardened and weatherproof SmarterDVRs are designed for remote, outdoor use in such rugged locales as oil fields — and even underwater; system sports motion-based recording and internet connectivity; lower power consumption a critical feature
-
-
Zareba reports devastating first quarter numbers
With net income down 94 percent, the electrical fence company goes through growing pains as it attempts to shift from controlling livestock to controlling prisons and oil refineries
-
-
Buffalo researchers use nano-sensors to locate power outages
Technology will save utilities from block to block searches for downed wires; nanosensors monitor any electrical system that runs on 120 volts — including refrigerators, freezers, home theatre systems, and even home medical systems
-
-
Louisville offers critical infrastructure course
Three-day course is targeted toward security architects, security system designers, project managers and security directors, but does not grant credit toward a degree
-
The long view
Underground Data Fortresses: The Nuclear Bunkers, Mines and Mountains Being Transformed to Protect Our “New Gold” from Attack
Bunker scholars have long noted that these buildings are as much about time as they are about space. Bunkers are designed to preserve and transport their contents through time, from an apocalyptic present into a safe future.
Millions of Buildings at Risk from Sea Level Rise
Sea level rise could put more than 100 million buildings if fossil fuel emissions are not curbed quickly. The analysis focused on Global South and considered multiple scenarios, underscoring urgent need for planning.