Friday fragments - comms news from around the web for 23 August 2013

A weekly round-up of radio and communications news from around the internet for Friday, 23 August 2013.

Smartphones or sniffer dogs? US Naval Research Laboratory scientists have developed a technology that could be used to turn smartphones into bomb detectors. SiN-VAPOR, short for silicon nanowires in a vertical array with a porous electrode, is a nanotechnology sensor that can 'sniff' the air for the chemicals used in explosives. This sort of technology would be very useful at airports.

Spectrum monitoring. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) in the USA has issued a Notice of Inquiry to seek comment on a proposed spectrum monitoring program. The program would be a two-year pilot to “determine the benefits of an automated spectrum measurement and data collection system to better analyse actual spectrum usage". Details on the NTIA website.

FirstNet. The USA's First Responder Network Authority has completed an analysis of 54 industry inputs into its April 2013 RFI for wireless devices. “The current industry offerings for 700 MHz Band 14 public safety users are now well defined, and we have compiled a near-term roadmap for devices coming to market. This step forward could help jumpstart design and production of LTE devices for public safety," said FirstNet General Manager Bill D'Agostino.

Events. Don't forget that we have a wide-ranging list of comms and public safety conferences and exhibitions listed on the Events section of the Radio Comms website. From transport to security services, from emergency services to technology development - there are plenty to choose from. If you know of an upcoming event that is not listed, particularly if you or your company are going to be involved as an organiser, speaker or exhibitor, please let us know so that we can add it to the list