Code Talker

Features

• Secure wireless networking with FIPS 140-2 compliant encryption and authentication
• Translates serial data to hardwired or wireless Ethernet
• Onboard PC capable of hosting device-specific algorithms and analysis functions
• Translates vendor-proprietary data from a wide array of devices to RadNet compliant packets
• Optional console interface for configuration and testing
• Modular software design allows for rapid integration of new devices
• Extremely low power requirements allow extended operation on a battery alone
• Data display, logging, analysis and reports with optional RadHawk Client software
• Remote notification via paging and email with optional RadHawk Server software

Description

In recent years, Nuclear and Homeland Security industries have recognized the value of integrating radiation detection, monitoring, and security systems into a single network for centralized management and review of data. These networks can also incorporate remote alarm systems for notifying appropriate response personnel via pager, email, or cellular phone.

Further improvements in security, cost efficiency, and ease of deployment are realized using secure wireless communications. Wireless technology can significantly reduce the difficulty and expense of networking remote equipment. In remote and unattended locations or in facilities where hardwiring is physically restricted, a wireless network can provide connectivity without the expense of hardwiring. In larger facilities where a small number of staff must remotely monitor multiple instruments, wireless networking provides access to real time data from any location. In order to realize the benefits of the wireless network, we must be able to ensure that the network is secure. The Code Talker represents all of these advances in one device.

FIPS 140-2 COMPLIANT WIRELESS NETWORKING

Federal entities wishing to incorporate their surveillance, monitoring and detection systems into a wireless network must first address the issue of FIPS compliance. To meet this demand, the Code Talker uses a FIPS 140-2 compliant cryptographic module to provide 128-bit AES layer two encryption and enhanced authentication.

ETHERNET COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACE

The Code Talker provides for attaching new or legacy instruments to the RadNet network via standard serial connectors. A single RS-232 or multiple RS-485 devices can be accommodated. Current installations utilize the Code Talker in conjunction with area monitors, air monitors and surveillance cameras. Software support for particular devices is accomplished with modular “personality modules”. A “pass through” mode supports devices that provide RadNet compliant packets, but lack an Ethernet interface.

RADNET COMPLIANT

With origins at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), RadNet is a non-proprietary protocol that utilizes standard Internet protocols. (See www.radnet.org.) Its ability to incorporate a wide range of devices has been successfully demonstrated. RadNet’s adoption as the de facto industry standard for radiation networks also simplifies the development and implementation of ancillary services (e.g. email generation and pager systems.) Because the RadNet specification already provides for authentication and encryption, its native mode accommodates the data security requirements of the Homeland Security Community.

OPTIONAL RADHAWK SOFTWARE

RadHawk Client is an easy to use Windows^® based application that monitors up to 256 RadNet compliant instruments. Each instrument’s status and data are displayed in a color-coded format on one of the user defined pages. This method allows for the use of background images so the data is superimposed on graphical information such as floor plans or functional diagrams. The instrument icon can be moved anywhere on the page to represent the actual location relative to the background image. RadHawk Client provides simple data logging in an XML format. Advanced data logging and analysis are provided by RadHawk Server, which is a data logging and analysis program installed on a network appliance. Data are stored in an ODBC compliant database for generation of userdefined reports. RadHawk Server also provides paging and email capabilities for remote notification of alarms and state of health of the monitoring system.

APPLICATIONS

• HOMELAND SECURITY
• NUCLEAR POWER
• HEALTH PHYSICS