http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16794717/wid/11915829?GT1=8921

I thought that this was a bit amusing. The weapon sends a 95GHz microwave beam at the intended targets. The microwave energy heats up the person's skin, but not the internal organs, as it only penetrates to a depth of about 1/64th" This would be great for dispersing unruly mobs, but I think that somewhat tech-savvy people would come up with clothing that would render this weapon largely ineffective (like fabrics coated or embedded with carbon or conductive materials).

The intensity of this microwave beam might also make it effective at disrupting the operation of some types of electronics (although this is not stated in the article).

I have to agree with what you say Alfredo, but still, it's kind of Star Trekkies, isn't it. Gotta love that. Jeez, ray guns. What won't they think of next.

Sucks to be you if your in that crowd with a pace maker!!!!!!!

Ha--to a person with a pace maker, this weapon might not be so non-lethal after all! If the pace maker is implanted, though, they would be safe.

This is interesting technology.

I suspect this weapon does have side effects however. I'm thinking about eye coronas, tactile nerve damage, etc...

It's better than rubber bullets, gas and the usual assortment of bodies and clubs.

Some research has been done with sound too, but that proved damaging in the end.

My first line of defense research would be coatings of some kind. I strongly suspect even these, plus clothing would only limit the damage though. It's likely to be expensive to avoid this tech for a while.

One downside would be abuse. Things like this, really should only be used when human to human alternatives are not a viable option. It could be just too easy to disperse crowds, who might be serving the greater good by being there.

Can't beat a good old fashioned fire truck and high pressure hose! Mow's em down real good....downside might be it turns there eyelids inside out!!! LOL

I wonder if I could mount one on the front of my Land Cruiser and zap the punks stereo that is going BOOM BOOM BOOM at an intersection?

That would be a GREAT use for it!

Use your cell phone instead!

The DMV will accept noise and smoke complaints. They mail out letters and will take further action if they are not responded to.

I thought you could maybe point it at idiots on there cell phones not paying attention on the road and kill it! Is there anything that would wipe out Cell Phone like a noise generator you could mount in your car. Would be fun but probably make things worse. I think anymore when you watch people driving 50% or better are on their cell phones!

Yeah, I hate to say it, but it's about even. Men and women. Some can handle multi-tasking but way more can't.

Get a headset!

I know the studies say there is no difference in the distraction factor between holding your phone and using a headset, but I'd argue that point with them.

I hate using my phone without the headset!

I'm gonna get a new bluetooth enable stereo for my rig with touch screen display!