This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus in the form of a real-time carbon dioxide monitoring system to combat the “con crud” often associated with large gatherings. Kawaiicon, New Zealand’s premier hacker convention, implemented the system throughout the Michael Fowler Centre venue in Wellington. The initiative aimed to provide attendees with insights into air quality within different areas of the conference space, addressing concerns about airborne virus transmission.
Key Developments
Kawaiicon organizers installed DIY CO2 monitors throughout the venue before the conference commenced on November 6. The monitors were connected to a public, online dashboard, allowing attendees to check air quality readings for various locations, including session rooms, kids’ areas, and the registration desk. The organizers noted the importance of risk management within their community, emphasizing the proactive approach to health and safety. Jeff Moss, founder of Defcon and Black Hat security conferences, praised the initiative, highlighting the innovative application of readily available technology to address a widespread concern. This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus, demonstrating a unique approach to public health at large events.
The decision to implement the monitoring system was driven by concerns over the transmission of airborne viruses, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, particularly given a concurrent measles outbreak. Elevated CO2 levels are known to reduce cognitive function and facilitate the spread of airborne illnesses, making CO2 data a valuable proxy for identifying potentially hazardous environments. The organizers acknowledged limitations imposed by the venue’s existing HVAC system, which utilized standard MERV-8 filters, a common but less effective filtration choice. This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus to mitigate these limitations.
Implementation and Technology
The CO2 monitoring system comprised 13 RGB Matrix Portal Room CO2 Monitors, adapted from a DIY project by Adafruit Industries. These monitors, deployed a month before the conference, provided live readings, daily high and low data, and historical trends accessible via an internet-connected dashboard. Kawaiicon collaborated with researchers from the University of Otago’s public health department to test the monitors’ effectiveness. Adafruit founder Limor “Ladyada” Fried lauded the project, emphasizing the value of hackers and makers developing self-reliance in addressing public health information needs. The full specifications for the Kawaiicon build are available on GitHub.
The Michael Fowler Centre’s unique architectural features, including its acoustics, presented challenges to the monitor placement. The team strategically positioned the RGB monitors in stereo, with two on each level of the Main Auditorium, two in the Renouf session space, and additional monitors in the daycare, Kuracon (kids’ hacker conference) areas, Quiet Room, Registration Desk, and Green Room. This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus to ensure comprehensive coverage of the venue.
Attendee Response and Accessibility Considerations
A Kawaiicon spokesperson, known as Sput, emphasized that the project involved considerations similar to those for other accessibility options, such as venue access and private spaces. The team focused on health and safety, effective monitor placement at breathing height, and avoiding interference from windows or doors. Attendees actively used the CO2 level data, checking readings on their phones and adjusting their behavior, such as masking, based on the information. This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus, empowering attendees to make informed decisions about their health and safety.
Sput noted that the accessibility of CO2 monitoring technology made the project feasible, even with limited resources. The initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing health concerns at large events, showcasing the hacker community’s ability to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. The success of the project highlights the potential for widespread adoption of similar monitoring systems at conferences and other public gatherings.
Future Implications for Event Safety
This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus, setting a precedent for future events prioritizing attendee health and safety through innovative technological solutions. By demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of real-time CO2 monitoring, Kawaiicon has provided a model for other conference organizers seeking to mitigate the risk of airborne virus transmission. The project also underscores the importance of collaboration between event organizers, researchers, and technology providers in addressing public health challenges.
The success of the Kawaiicon initiative may encourage venues to upgrade their HVAC systems and filtration capabilities, further enhancing air quality and reducing the risk of infection. As awareness of the impact of CO2 levels on cognitive function and virus transmission grows, demand for similar monitoring systems is likely to increase. This hacker conference installed a literal antivirus, paving the way for a future where event spaces are equipped with advanced air quality monitoring and mitigation technologies.
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