“one of those very rare technology changes that bring really interesting

potential in several dimensions”: a unanimous May 11 decision by the FCC opens the way to the use of ultrawide band wireless technology that makes leaps in data transmission rates and also relieves pressure on the crowded wireless spectrum by operating in frequency ranges already occupied without causing interference. “The technology allows a range of science fiction-like applications. Initially, the services were created as radar tools, which can see

through walls when traditional radar is blocked. That could allow such things as devices allowing firefighters to see who or what is in

burning buildings or helping rescue workers find earthquake victims trapped underneath rubble.

It also acts as a positioning device far more accurate than ordinary global positioning services. Time Domain has signed a deal with

a golf company that plans to use the technology to give golfers exact measurements from tee to hole. That

application could be used to keep track of children in crowds or find lost pets”