Abstract: A method for detecting a fault in a thermoelectric device (102), the method comprising: applying a voltage across the thermoelectric device (102); ceasing to apply the voltage to the thermoelectric device (102) after a predefined period of time; measuring a Seebeck voltage Vs across the thermoelectric device (102); comparing Vs to a first threshold voltage VT; and creating a record of a fault if Vs is below VT.

Abstract: A method for detecting a fault in a thermoelectric device (102), the method comprising: applying a voltage across the thermoelectric device (102); ceasing to apply the voltage to the thermoelectric device (102) after a predefined period of time; measuring a Seebeck voltage Vs across the thermoelectric device (102); comparing Vs to a first threshold voltage VT; and creating a record of a fault if Vs is below VT.

Abstract: A portable monitoring system for use at sites, such as construction sites, is provided. The portable monitoring system can provide enhanced security at such sites and may be quickly set up and taken down. A portable monitoring system, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, includes a housing and a plurality of portable sensing devices and a plurality of mounting platforms both capable of being removably stored in the housing. The mounting platforms may be easily retrieved from the housing and disposed about the site and are each capable of detachably mounting one or more of the portable sensing devices. The portable sensing devices each include a sensor for sensing a stimulus and a transmitter, coupled to the sensor, for transmitting a signal associated with the stimulus. The housing further includes a communication system for receiving the transmitted signals from each of the portable sensing devices and communicating signals associated with the sensed stimuli to an external system.