Broadware Technologies, Cubic team up for Baltimore MTA explosives detection system
Program brings together trace detection and video capabilities to defend against train terrorism; when explosves are detected at ticketing kiosks, Broadware cameras transmit a digital picture to security personnel while the entry gates refuse access
Ever since the recent train bombings in Madrid, American planners have grown increasingly concerned about similar attacks here at home. With so many access points, many fear that effective defense is a long way off, if it ever comes. Santa Clara, California-based Broadware Technologies, a developer of distributed digital video surveillance, has joined with Cubic Corporation to provide the Baltimore MTA subway with an integrated explosives detection solution. The system, which has already been succesfully tested, involves two distinct steps. First, Cubic’s ticket-purchasing kiosks detect explosives on the passenger using General Electric’s ITMS trace detection technology. If a person is suspected of carrying explosives, Broadware’s Media Management System cameras take a close-up digital picture that is immediately distributed to one or more stationary or portable video displays that alert security personnel to intercept the individual and conduct additional screening tests. (To address privacy concerns, only suspected passengers are photographed.) The alert includes the precise location of the gate that the person is attempting to enter. At the same time, access gates to the subway refuse entry to the person carrying the disbursed ticket. An interesting approach, yes, but it raises a important question: what if the terrorist buys his ticket in advance or over the internet?
-read more in this company news release
