Tag: RFID

Alarmed and Ready

RFID-BikealarmYou can’t always keep your eyes on your bike, but the RFID Bikealarm is the next best thing to having someone watch your bike. Designed by Dennis Siegal, this device attaches to a bike saddle and emits a 120dB alarm when moved. This isn’t meant to replace a physical lock but rather to provide a low-cost second line of defense.

The alarm is activated by holding an RFID tag close to the device until an audio acknowledgement is sounded, and deactivated the same way when the owner returns. Siegel opted to use RFID technology as opposed to Bluetooth as a way to keep the costs down. Siegal designed the RFID Bikealarm as part of his university studies at University of the Arts Bremen in Germany.

Dennis Siegal Official Website

Put a Finger on It

gunboxHaving a firearm requires responsibility to ensure that it is locked and secure. The Gun Box, which was designed by Ryan Hyde, doesn’t require a key or combination but rather only lets the authorized user access it via a RFID-equipped bracelet or fingerprint scanner. Hyde is currently looking to raise money to bring the Gun Box to retail via an Indiegogo campaign.

The safe’s shell is made from die-cast aluminum that will ensure the wrong person can’t access the firearm inside, whilst the locking mechanism utilizes motorized servos to prevent someone from prying it open.

This box can be programmed for multiple users, plus it features an accelerometer and will send an alert to your smartphone if it’s moved or tampered with, while it can even be monitored via GPS. It isn’t exactly cheap at nearly $400, but can you really put a price on safety and security? Continue reading Put a Finger on It

SHOT Show: Shields Up

Last week CES, this week SHOT Show and impressively LOKSAK is at both. We were introduced to them a year ago when we first saw their innovative plastic bags that are made to protect a wallet, mobile phone or other small item from the elements. The bags are a little more durable than your off-the-shelf sandwich bags, and fit nicely in a pocket for cycling, running or skiing.

So what’s new? Try the SHIELDSAK on for size, a flexible bag that is made of R.F. shield fabric that will protect devices from electronic signals. This isn’t so much meant for blocking a phone from getting tracked – for that you could turn it off. But if you’re worried about the data chips in your passport or credit card from being scanned this will ensure the shields are up and the scanning can’t get through. This works with any RFID type of chips, so if you’re worried about what might be scanned or tracked, this will ensure it is protected.

LOKSAK Official Website

MapMyRun Takes On Marathons

MapMyFitness is an online training tool that uses social networking to track and discuss your workouts. The company offers tools for “MapMy” run, ride, walk, tri and hike. The MapMyRun segment is offering marathon tracking, according to some reports. The app is adapted with the MapMyRun software, RFID and GPS tracking to follow runners on race day.

Once runners are being tracked, friends can follow their competing friends, and watch the progress of other runners on the course. MapMyFitness tested the app at the New York City Marathon last fall, and the San Francisco Marathon, which took place last month.

A free version allows runners competing in the marathon to be tracked and later review results. A paid app ($1.99) lets spectators track their friends and other runners. Runners can post updates, though we think they might want to keep their mind and bodies on the course.

The basic version shows event info, the course map, participant listings and “buzz” which is likely Tweets and other conversational aspects on marathon day.

MapMyFitness and its free Marathon app on iTunes and Android

London Introduces High Tech Bicycles for Rent

The Barclays Cycle Hire Bicycle

Plan on visiting London any time soon and you might not have to hail a black taxi cab to get around; instead you might be able to rent – or “hire” as they say in the British capital – a bike instead. The city, which is also in the process of installing new bicycle friendly lanes, has introduced 6,000 new high tech bikes for people for to use.

As part of a system that went live last week, users can register online for a year’s membership or pay an access fee for the week or day – ranging from £45 for a year to £1 for a day. After accessing a bike the rental costs are a tad high too, with an hourly rate of £1, and if you keep the bike for more than 24 hours you’ll get hit with a £50 fee. That’s probably too hefty a cost for most commuters, and some have asked why regular riders wouldn’t prefer to buy their own bike. Jon Snow, a presenter for “Channel 4 News” and also presidents of the National Cyclists’ Organization further offered a first-hand opinion of the bikes for The Financial Times, noting that the bikes are a bit heavy, especially compared to his own titanium ride. Continue reading London Introduces High Tech Bicycles for Rent