IDENTIFICATION AND MAPPING OF CELLULAR TELEPHONES TO DEFEAT RADIO-CONTROLLED IEDS

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to develop a means of identifying and mapping radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (RCIEDs) that use cellular telephones as a means of activation. By understanding the regulating bodies that allocate and control the frequency bands within the electromagnetic spectrum, this thesis tests the validity of deriving required inputs for a mathematical algorithm to compute the range to an emitting cellular device. Computationally deriving the range and coupling it with the direction-finding capabilities of spectrum analyzers will enable the development of a handheld device in the future to map the location of cellular telephones in the operating area around a ground unit. Possessing the ability to map the location of emitting devices will enable ground units to not only safely bypass an RCIED but defeat it before detonation.