News Briefs – Wednesday, June 21, 2006
University pitches digital iris scanner for fraud prevention
Purdue University’s Biometric Standards, Performance and Assurance Laboratory has proposed a digital solution to prevent the widespread aid fraud seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The university is developing a scanner mounted onto a PDA that can capture a digital image of the aid-recipient’s iris. The data then is sent wirelessly to a central repository housing a database of all users who previously have been issued aid. If a new image matches an existing one, aid would be denied. This may prevent disaster victims from “double-dipping” and stave off opportunists, according to the university.
Software boosts 802.1X authentication transactions
Aruba Networks announced a new version of its ArubaOS Mobility Software, the operating system and application engine for all of the company’s mobility controllers. The enhancements include the AA FastConnect and VLAN Pooling features that support the product’s ability to deliver 1000 simultaneous 802.1X authentication transactions per second, according to the company.
Rugged mobile computer offers wireless option to forklift operators
Symbol introduced the VC5090 vehicle/fixed-mount, rugged mobile computer built for wireless data access and collection on forklifts operating in harsh environments. The computer lets users connect to 802.11a/b/g networks, offers Bluetooth-driven wireless scanning and printing, and provides VoIP support via a push-to-talk handset. It also is RFID ready and meets industrial and military grade specifications for vibration, shock, temperature and sealing, according to Symbol.
Hong Kong hotel goes wireless
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s flagship property in Hong Kong installed InnerWireless’ in-building wireless system and distributed antenna system, which supports wireless interpersonal and building service applications throughout the hotel. The system also enables wireless communications to continue in the event of a power outage or other emergency situation, noted InnerWireless.
Freescale enters industrial, scientific and medical markets
Freescale Semiconductor announced its expansion into the industrial, scientific and medical sector through its new transistors designed for the HF and VHF frequencies, as well as for the 2.45 GHz band.