Hardware power-fingerprinting monitor for out-of-band cyber
This technology monitors whether a computer or embedded device is running exactly the software it's supposed to run, by analyzing its power consumption in real time. Every program creates a unique electrical 'fingerprint' as it executes; if malware or unauthorized code is present, the power pattern deviates from a stored baseline. The system breaks the power signal into sections, compares each section against trusted reference signatures, and flags anomalies without needing to modify the device being monitored. It works even on devices that can't run traditional security software, such as industrial controllers, military hardware, or IoT nodes.
What you could build
A security appliance or embedded module sold to defense contractors, critical infrastructure operators, and industrial OEMs that continuously monitors PLCs, routers, or mission-critical processors for unauthorized code execution—without touching the monitored device's software stack. Buyers would be government integrators and OT security vendors serving energy, defense, and industrial markets.
Who in Virginia should care
Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads defense primes, government cybersecurity contractors, and DHS/DoD program offices with OT and ICS security mandates would be natural partners or licensees.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Jeffrey H. Reed, Carlos R. Aguayo Gonzalez
- Granted
- January 31, 2017
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 9558349
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.