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Advanced Technology Checkpoint X-ray

Innovation & Technology

AT is a catch phrase for a group of advanced x-ray technologies that will improve carry-on bag screening and enhance airline passenger security. ATs provide clear, high-definition x-ray images that improve TSA security officers' ability to detect potential threat items. Some AT units also employ multiple x-ray angles (views), provide high-definition zoom and/or have automated detection capabilities that will further enhance the TSOs' effectiveness. By comparison, currently deployed technology depends on a single, top-down x-ray view.

In addition, AT x-ray systems are built to be upgradeable and programmable. As threats emerge and AT's capabilities improve, enhancements to the equipment at airports will generally require only a software upgrade.

AT systems are highly cost-effective and can be widely deployed in a few years. AT training is relatively easy, as the interface is either very similar or identical to current x-ray machines.

TSA is piloting AT systems from three manufacturers at security checkpoints. Contracts have been awarded for Rapiscan's 620DV, L3 Communications' ACX^TM 6.4 Automated Checkpoint X-ray System, and Smiths Detection's HI-SCAN 6040aTIX. One each of these three units initially will be pilot-tested at Albuquerque (ABQ), Washington Reagan National (DCA), and New York (JFK) airports to determine operational suitability and effectiveness.

Rapiscan 620DV

Rapiscan 620DV provides both a horizontal and vertical x-ray view of carry-on luggage.

These two perpendicular views provide a complete perspective regardless of their orientation inside the system.

Automated explosives detection software is also applied to scanned images.

Smiths Detection HI-SCAN 6040aTIX

Smiths Detection HI-SCAN 6040aTIX uses several, independent generators, each of which is connected to its own X-ray sensor technology.

The two x-ray views (Dual View) support the quick and reliable evaluation process, and automated explosives detection flags potential threat items on screen.