David S. Hall Unveils Cam-Lidar: A Breakthrough in Drone Defense Tech

David S. Hall, the inventor who changed the world of autonomous vehicles with lidar, is back with something big. PR News Wire published that his new company, Hall Lidar Inc. (HLi), has just introduced Cam-Lidar, a next-generation detection system designed to spot and track high-speed aerial objects with unmatched precision.

Hall says this new technology could be even more important than his original lidar invention. “Cam-Lidar is a state-of-the-art, urgently needed technology for US security and global competition in the growing drone defense sector,” he said.

What Makes Cam-Lidar Different

Cam-Lidar combines three key technologies: lidar, high-performance cameras, and artificial intelligence. Together, they deliver real-time tracking of drones moving at incredible speeds, even up to Mach 1.

The system can detect and follow objects as small as a laptop from two kilometers away. In my personal experience, the fastest speed that I have ever throw a laptop wasn’t even close to Mach .1

Unlike radar systems, which can be slow and prone to false readings, Cam-Lidar synchronizes lidar and camera data at 60 frames per second. Its AI software predicts movement in real time, creating a 3D spatial map of the airspace around it. The result is a compact, binocular-like unit capable of tracking aerial objects with remarkable accuracy.

Designed for Speed and Safety

Hall’s team didn’t stop at detection. Cam-Lidar can also pair with another of Hall’s creations: the Magnetic Electrical Launch (MEL) system. This electromagnetic launcher can fire net-based capture tools up to five times per second, giving operators the ability to neutralize drones safely and efficiently.

Together, these systems could change the landscape of drone defense. They promise faster reaction times, lower costs, and longer system life compared to traditional military or commercial counter-drone tools.

Where It Could Be Used

Hall sees Cam-Lidar as a flexible solution for both defense and civilian security. Potential uses include protecting airports, energy plants, data centers, border zones, prisons, and major events. It could also support military bases or forward operations where rapid drone interception is critical.

According to Hall, “With the Cam-Lidar system, one can discreetly and precisely neutralize aerial threats without disruption to surrounding environments. It’s a revolutionary leap forward in how we visualize and respond to high-speed objects in the sky.”

The Mind Behind It

David S. Hall is no newcomer to innovation. His 3D lidar system, first tested in the 2005 DARPA Grand Challenge, helped spark the self-driving car revolution. His former company, Velodyne Lidar, reached a valuation of over $1.6 billion by 2020, supplying tech to companies like Google, Ford, Toyota, Amazon, and Apple.

Now, with Hall Lidar Inc., he’s expanding his work into drone defense, robotics, and even space exploration. The company already has a working Cam-Lidar prototype and is inviting commercial and government partners to schedule demonstrations and place early orders.

DroneXL’s Take

David Hall isn’t just making another lidar sensor. He’s trying to reinvent how we detect and defend against drones. What’s exciting about Cam-Lidar is its mix of accuracy, range, and real-time prediction. If it performs as described, it could be a serious upgrade for both national defense and civilian airspace protection.

And honestly, it’s good to see one of lidar’s original pioneers back in the game—this time aiming not at cars, but at our beautiful birds!

Photo credit: Hall Lidar Inc.