Technology

Advanced Container Security Device Project

The Department of Homeland Security has embarked on a project to develop an advanced sensor system for monitoring shipping containers from their point-of-storag...

Federal News Radio Custom Media@WTOPWFEDcustom

August 30, 2010 7:35 pm

< a min read

The Department of Homeland Security has embarked on a project to develop an advanced sensor system for monitoring shipping containers from their point-of-storage to release in the maritime supply chain.

The Advanced Container Security Device (or ACSD) is a small unit that attaches to the inside of a container and monitors all six sides for any intrusion or the presence of human cargo.

If the device detects such an intrusion or presence it transmits alarm information through the Marine Asset Tag Tracking System to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The ACSD will also build in a standard plug-and-play interface so that other security or commercial sensors (such as those measuring radiological, chemical, or biological factors) can be easily integrated through a standard interface.

40 prototype systems have been delivered, tested and evaluated. This fiscal year, the project plans to remedy shortfalls discovered during prototype testing and put improvements in place.