Case study: A simple tool
No sense of urgency?
RAE Systems has done well since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks by providing hazardous-material sensors for emergency crews. However, the company believes that the federal government is mainly being reactive, not proactive, in exploiting sensor tools."The problem with policymakers is it takes them five or 10 years to understand the technology, and we don't have that much time," an RAE Systems representative said.
More forward-thinking efforts would place sensors in every cargo container reaching U.S. shores and on the belt of every security official, including police officers, emergency responders and border patrol agents, RAE Systems believes. That would create a tight detection network of sensors--and also be a boon for the industry.
Rising with the tide
As the United States has become watchful, RAE Systems has seen its revenue jump and its share price increase.
Dealing for dollars
A sampling of government contracts announced by RAE Systems in 2004:• EPA, July 2004: Multisensor chemical and radiation detection monitors and networks. Estimated value: $5 million.
• U.S. military, May 2004: Radiation sensors for domestic and international base security. Estimated value: $1 million.
• Central U.S. National Medical Response Team, February 2004: Toxic gas detection and security screening equipment. No value estimate disclosed.
• Connecticut and Rhode Island, February 2004: Radiation sensors and gas monitors. No value estimate disclosed.
Sources: RAE Systems, SEC filings
- Check out what's new
- Introducing the all-new CNET!
- Send feedback
Unlimited long distance $24.99/mo