The Packet Sniffer is a listening device used to independently verify transmitted DSRC data and protocols. The new test tool is the first device to verify IEEE 802.11p and 1609 standards based "Over-the-Air" transmissions. It incorporates the NTRU Aerolink 1609.2 Security and is the first OmniAir-Approved Test Tool. OmniAir's mission is to develop and offer the means to provide conformance, certification and interoperability test services to increase confidence in DSRC technology and its deployment.

5.9GHz DSRC is a compelling VII technology designed to provide standards-based, interoperable, low latency, highly secure, high-bandwidth vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications enabling a broad range of applications. Its development represents a critical milestone toward the realization of the combined goals of reduced accidents and fatalities as well as improved mobility - all on one platform. A prominent attribute of 5.9GHz DSRC is that it's based on open standards and can be built by any supplier.

This creates a more competitive environment, improves contestability, efficiency, and innovation. Still, in the transport community funding is limited, particularly for new technology. For those working with tight budgets, OmniAir verification increases confidence that VII technology is performing as planned. This ultimately increases acceptance and in turn aids deployment.

As an independent single-channel listening device, the 5.9GHz Packet Sniffer is a low-cost autonomous protocol analysis tool that verifies transmitted data against published VII protocols. The software runs on a Windows(R) XP laptop and captures and decodes over-the-air data packets.

The single-channel radio listening device detects DSRC units within a short range and monitors either the control channel or service channel. It decodes WSA ("WAVE Service Announcement"), WSM ("WAVE Short Message") and UDP ("User Datagram Protocol") messages per IEEE 1609 and SAE J2735 standards along with embedded security certificates.

If the data transmitted over the 802.11p radio does not meet protocols, the test tool reports the data seen and provides information on whether the data can be decoded properly. The Packet Sniffer represents a critical step for Sirit's customers by providing a low cost verification tool for OmniAir 5.9GHz DSRC device standards compliance program.

Sirit originated its work with the DSRC Industry Consortium with the responsibility of testing the developed technology against the emerging 5.9GHz standards. Currently, Sirit continues its RF Communications testing role in VII proof of concept development. Sirit participates in the IEEE and SAE standards development and several industry associations, such as IBTTA, ITS America and OmniAir. Sirit uses its field application experience to develop the RF test tools needed for the emerging 5.9 GHz DSRC technology.

Sirit will be performing demonstrations showcasing the full capabilities of the DSRC Packet Sniffer at 1:15pm daily at their booth No. 366 during the ITS World Congress show, in addition to static demonstrations of the packet sniffer during the show hours at both the Sirit booth No. 366 and an OmniAir members booth No. 849.

Keywords: packet sniffer, critical milestone, interoperability test, infrastructure integration, sirit inc, demonstration area, tight budgets, protocol analysis, technology demonstration, aerolink, transport community, range communications, avenue theatre, RFID