Verification of seismic detection system performance using the human heartbeat

The need for calibration and validation of seismic measurements sometimes arises during data acquisition at field locations. The authors deal with the need for verification of signature acquisition system performance resulting from anomalous data acquired during seismic testing. A series of seismic tests was planned and initiated to acquire intruder and false/nuisance alarm signatures required for a security system design. The effort also included measurements of seismic signal propagation velocity under local soil conditions, required for investigation of a seismic beam forming system for intruder tracking. Measuring and recording system performance was verified through laboratory and field tests prior to shipment of the system. A unique offshoot of the program, the use of the human heartbeat as a calibration source, and subsequent investigation of this possibility are discussed