New technology : Mobile microwave scanner could detect guns
British scientists have developed a portable microwave scanner which could help identify individuals carrying concealed guns and knives. Unlike existing scanning systems, it does not need to be used in close proximity of suspects.
Unlike airport scanners, the portable machine does not produce an image of the subject, it only analyses signals. It is designed to work out on the streets and is not restricted to a closed, controlled environment.
A human operator would transport the device, using it to direct microwave emission at a person of interest. Return signals - microwaves reflected back towards the device - are picked up, sensed and analysed. The device, which is under development at Manchester Metropolitan University, could help increase the effectiveness of stop-and-search. The existing prototype is suitable for the detection of guns, but researchers say subsequent versions of the technology will be able to identify concealed knives as well. This kind of device would be of great service to officers, helping them to catch people carrying guns and knives without putting themselves in increased danger. It could also help to target stop and search to further increase its effectiveness." More on this article:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8089959.stm
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ReplyDeleteTechnology like this is good news in one sense since people have succeeded in getting weapons through airport security checkpoints. I expect that the federal and state governments will help cities fund use of such equipment in urban high-crime areas where shootings are too commonplace. The downside is that law-abiding citizens would susceptible to search without existence of probable cause for a search. I’m expecting society will inevitably justify further erosion of people’s rights for the general welfare of society.
ReplyDeleteThis is definitely one of those newer technologies that will help better our society and make it safer and more efficient for law enforcement to do their jobs. I only hope that this device actually will be fully developed and available to every major law enforcement agency as soon as possible to prevent anymore unnecessary injuries and etc.
ReplyDeleteThis is another invention that will make the world nearly crime free before the end of our lives. Being able to detect guns and other weapons from far distance is great, it doesnt allow people to hide. If this is an already working device I would hope to see it being used by airports shortly and hopefully the police not too long after that. Police will be able to detect a gun in the car that they pull over so that they can call for backup before trying to pull the car over by themselves. Hopefully they will also be able to use this technology to also detect drugs and other more serious weapons.
ReplyDeleteTruly, technology has evolved so much that we cannot even begin to fathom the results of this in the next few years. Microwave scanners to detect guns and knives? Who would've thought? But here's my question, if you're using microwaves to scan, don't microwaves emit a potentially lethal ray that have some scientists wary of? Can this truly be healthy for people to be around?
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