The next generation of networks will move beyond disconnected device-specific networks and systems and toward a distributed infrastructure, with intelligent functions residing across the entire network, from its edge to its core.

New developments bring together RFID and sensors — and add location-identification capabilities.

A survey of more than 700 IEEE Fellows, done by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers in conjunction with the Institute for the Future, sought to learn what science and technology developments are most likely to take hold within the next 10 to 50 years.

In the article, "IBM Software Tracks Computers, Trucks," c|netnews.com describes how IBM is planning to offer "unified management tools" capable of tracking IT gear and physical assets—such as trucks and shipping containers—with electronic sensors.

The cry of "man overboard!" is second only to "fire on shipboard!" as a general alarm for all hands. But what if no one sees that fellow boater or shipmate (or pet) fall into the drink? The Raymarine (www.raymarine.com) LifeTag system, using Ember's ZigBee (www.zigbee.org) networking technology, does away with that unhappy scenario.

Sensors are being paired with satellites to enable new capabilities. Here's an example: MachineTalker Inc. says its MachineTalker units are now transmitting sensor data and security alerts that can be monitored on the QTRACS Web site of communications technology giant Qualcomm Inc. Qualcomm reportedly has the largest deployed base of GPS tracking systems on trucks.

Wireless sensors installed inside a cargo container? Aren't they metal? Then the radio signal can't get out . . .or can it? Here's how mesh-networked 2.4 GHz, 802.15.4-compliant RF transceivers performed when placed within cargo containers.

GE's security business (www.ge.com ) has completed the first commercial field test of the Tamper Evident Secure Container (TESC), a freight container developed jointly with the world's leading manufacturer of maritime shipping containers, China International Marine Containers Group Ltd. (CIMC).