mm wave scanner : Working, benefits and manufacturers

Introduction

A millimeter wave security scanner is advanced imaging system used at the airports. It helps to detect concealed objects such as weapons, explosives or any other prohibited items under a person’s clothing without making any physical contact. This mm wave scanner uses non-ionizing millimeter wave frequencies usually in 24-30 GHz or 70-80 GHz range. It generates 3D image of the body which can be analyzed if needed or it can detect anomalies automatically and generate an alarm.

Working of mm wave scanner

Following steps describe working principle of mm wave scanner used at various check points on airports.

• The scanner emits very low power millimeter waves using antenna arrays which rotate or scan horizontally as well as vertically around the person under scanning.
• These EM waves are bounced off from the body and any objects hidden on it.
• The reflected signals are received by sensors and antennas integrated in the scanner.
• The scanner employs high speed signal processors and imaging algorithms to analyze the time delay, amplitude and phase of the reflected waves or signals.
• Automatic Threat Detection (ATD) algorithm highlights location of the suspicious objects or itemes on a generic body. The outline is displayed to the security officer after preserving privacy.
• The figure depicts one such mmwave scanner from R&S by the model QPS201.

Key features of R&S QPS201 mmwave security scanner

R&S^®QPS201 is a premium mmWave body scanner offering high speed, high accuracy and privacy respecting passenger screening. Following are some of the features of R&S mm wave scanner.

• Frequency range : 70 GHz to 80 GHz
• Transmit power : Approx. 1 mWatt
• Data Acquisition : ~ 32 ms per panel
• Fully electronic without moving parts
• Houses thousands of Transmit and Receive antennas per panel

Benefits of millimeter wave scanner

Following are some of the advantages of mm wave scanner.

1. Non-Invasive and contactless : It scans without physical touch which improves passenger comfort.
2. It can detect both metallic as well as non-metallic objects such as plastic explosives or ceramic knives.
3. It offers fast scanning whicb completes scans within 1-2 seconds which aids in smooth flow of passengers.
4. It uses non-ionizing radiation unlike X-rays which is safe for repeated use.
5. Due to adoption of modern systems, it can use software generated outlines instead of actual body images.
6. Due to ATD technique, it reduces need for manual image interpretation and human error.

Other Manufacturers

Summary

The mm Wave security scanners are a key component of modern airport security systems, offering fast, accurate and non-invasive detection of concealed threats using safe millimeter wave technology.