Anti-Teen Weapon Comes to New York
 Sharon Weinberger - Wired
go to original
The ultrasonic "Mosquito," a device targeted specifically at frequencies heard by the young, has made it to the United States, reports the New York Post.
Sean Mann, property manager of the 78-unit building at 114-05 170th St., said he was desperate to curtail chronic loitering, vandalism and even drug use in the building's lobby.
"I look at this as an active deterrent . . . I'm skeptical - because I can't hear it," he said.
But, he added, "over the past few days, we haven't seen any kids hanging out there. They're moving to different floors to avoid the sound."
"But now that we know it works, we'll keep installing more."
The Post put the gadget to the test in Washington Square Park and Midtown.
"It's obnoxious, high-pitched and painful," said 19-year-old Kristin Hankins with a wince.
"It's just awful," cried Jackie Lewis, 19, covering her ears. "I was wondering what that was. It's so annoying!"
But Jesus Parra, 46, was mystified. "Am I going deaf? I don't hear nothing," he said.
Dr. Pamela Roehm, assistant professor of otolaryngology at NYU, warns that more studies should be done before people install these devices.
"Eighty-five decibels is a little extreme," she said. "There is the possibility that long periods of exposure to this sound could cause damage."
Critics Attack Sonic Youth Blaster
Sharon Weinberger - Wired
go to original
Sonic blasters are all the rage these days, but one device used in the United Kingdom that specifically targets teenagers is attracting criticism, reports CNN:
The Children's Commissioner for England, who oversees children's rights, has called for a ban on the ultra-sonic gadget, known as "The Mosquito," which disperses young people by emitting sharp, piercing sounds.
The device causes discomfort to younger ears by exploiting their ability to hear very high frequencies - a power which declines once they reach their 20s.
But human rights groups say the machine infringes civil rights and creates a divide between young and old.
Launching the "Buzz Off" campaign, England's Children's Commissioner Al Aynsley-Green said: "I have spoken to many children and young people from all over England who have been deeply affected by ultra-sonic teenage deterrents."
Apparently, the devices are popular with everyone from shop keepers to police. |
Vallarta Weddings
Technology News | March 2008 
Tell a Friend
Site Map
Print this Page
Email Us