A cheap, highly addictive drug made in simple home-based labs or from the trunk of cars, methamphetamine is fast finding its way into both schools and the workplace. A July 2004 AOL article by Adam Geller of the Associated Press shows the number of job applicants testing positive for the crystalline stimulant often called "meth" or "ice" surged some 68% in 2003, based on employer drug screening according to Quest Diagnostics Inc., the country's largest testing company. Last year the DEA shut down 10,061 small meth labs, as compared to 8,063 labs shut down in 2002. "Meth has emerged as a serious problem," stated Ed Childress, a DEA spokesman cited in the article.
AIMSI Technologies' ALARM will provide law enforcement with another essential tool for detection. Just as enforcement personnel have devices for detecting drivers under the influence of alcohol, they will now have the capability to detect "meth" production. The ALARM handheld device will identify vapor from the production of methamphetamine in minute concentrations in air, localize the event by global positioning satellite (GPS) and report back to authorities via wireless communications. The "ALARM" device can be mounted on vehicles, robots, and unmanned aircraft. Cellular communications and the expansion of wireless broadband throughout the U.S. enhances the deployment of AIMSI's ALARM system, which has wireless GPS mapping technology providing real-time localization of harmful radiological, biological, or chemical agents. AIMSI is currently forming alliances with local, state, and federal agencies nationally. Reginald Hall, president and CEO of AIMT, said, "This development will make the 'ALARM' technology a key component in the fight against 'meth' use in the U.S."
