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Desktop Biodetectors

Posted by michael on from the two-steps-toward-gattaca-one-step-back dept.

IvyMike writes: "EE Times has an interesting article on the development of desktop biodetectors that could quickly detect the presence of pathogens like anthrax and smallpox. It uses some pretty cool technology to identify the target pathogen's DNA. Too bad we don't have these things today."

3 of 66 comments (clear)

  1. Can they make one for my refridgerator? by fobbman · · Score: 4, Funny

    I've got some leftovers in there that are really borderline.

  2. Parameters by Halloween+Jack · · Score: 4, Funny
    Considering what some people do at their desks, with the door closed... better not set the biodetection parameters on the desktop units too wide.


    "Sir, the bioalarm just went off in the boss' office! We need to get a hazmat team up there right away!"


    "Relax, rookie. Look at the DNA profile. Those are gametes. Billions of 'em. Nothing a few paper towels can't clean up."


    "But, sir... they don't match the boss' DNA."


    "...well, whaddaya know. Looks like we have a big raise coming, rookie."

    --
    I looked into the abyss, and the abyss looked into me--and we both winked.
  3. Too bad we don't have these things today? by Phrogz · · Score: 5, Insightful

    OK, sure, they're cool gadgets, but saying that is like saying "Too bad we don't have gadgets on the desktop to detect incoming meteors."

    What are there now, somthing like under 30 cases of Anthrax so far? Sent to a few high-profile companies? Sure, that's a MASSIVE INCREASE over previous levels, but statistically you're still in pretty good shape. Don't let the media hype get you worked up.

    Too bad we don't have detectors on our faucets just in case the level of mercury rises rapidly...