Abstract

This paper describes the development and application of the original Hazmat Cam Wireless Tactical Video System and the newly developed Generation II Hazmat Cam Tactical Wireless Video System. The Idaho National Laboratory designed the original Hazmat Cam Wireless Video System to assist the National Guard Weapons of Mass Destruction - Civil Support Teams during their mission of emergency response to incidents involving chemical, biological or radiological contamination. The R&D 100 Award winning Hazmat Cam system is a lightweight, handheld camera capable of transmitting encrypted, real-time video from inside a contaminated area, or hot-zone, to a command post located a safe distance away. The system includes a small wireless video camera, a true-diversity receiver, viewing console, and an optional extension link that allows the command post to be placed up to five miles from danger. It can be fully deployed by one person in a standalone configuration in less than 10 minutes. The complete system is battery powered. Each rechargeable camera battery powers the camera for 3 hours with the receiver and video monitor battery lasting 22 hours on a single charge. The camera transmits encrypted, low frequency analog video signals to a true-diversity receiver with three antennas. This unique combination of encryption and transmission technologies delivers encrypted, interference-free images to the command post under conditions where other wireless systems fail. The lightweight camera is water resistant and submersible for quick and easy decontamination after use. The Hazmat Cam Wireless Video System is currently being used by several National Guard Teams, the US Army, and by fire fighters. The system has been proven to greatly enhance situational awareness during the crucial, initial phase of a hazardous response allowing commanders to make better, faster, safer decisions. The author describes several improvements designed into the Generation II Hazmat Cam System along with the technical and financial challenges associated with developing an effective, affordable tactical video system for emergency response. Design considerations such as cost versus performance for different radio frequency transmission technologies, video encryption techniques, and heat management are addressed.

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