Technology similar to that found in a CD player is at the heart of a system that could make homes and the nation safer. The Laser-Based Item Monitoring System, developed by a team led by Pete Chiaro of Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Engineering Science & Technology Division, consists of a laser diode, electromechanical positioning system, light detector and signal processing electronics. The surveillance system, which creates high-resolution reflection maps instead of visual images, can sense extremely small changes in light signals. This allows it to detect movement of items within the target area. Because the system doesn't create a visual image, it can be used in situations where confidential information or security interests could be compromised by the use of video surveillance. The project was funded by DOE's Office of International Safeguards.
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