The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will test advance
technology (AT) X-ray machines, including multi-view and high definition X-rays,
at security checkpoints in the coming weeks. These new tools are designed to
provide greatly enhanced explosive detection capabilities for carry-on baggage.
Contracts for the pilot program were awarded to L3 Communications, Smiths
Detection and Rapiscan Systems. The contracts call for each vendor to lease
seven of their AT X-ray machines to TSA for testing in airports. The total cost
of the initial contracts is $1.4 million with options to purchase additional
units in the future. Advantages of AT X-ray include: a greatly enhanced display
which is much clearer and more detailed than current generation X-ray; the
ability to upgrade the system as enhanced algorithms and programs emerge; a
stable, low maintenance platform and a smaller profile than currently available
explosive detection systems. While this type of technology is used worldwide for
checked baggage, this initiative marks the first time multi-view and high
definition X-ray systems will be deployed to security checkpoints specifically
to screen carry-on bags. "These new X-ray technologies are built on systems not
unlike computers millions of people use every day. They are totally upgradeable
and programmable," said Mike Golden, TSA chief technology officer. "Comparing AT
X-ray to current technology is like comparing a VHS tape to a DVD. Both play
movies, but one is much clearer than the other." Once a test and evaluation
schedule is finalized, the units will be appraised over several weeks in
airports until one or more vendors are chosen for a wider deployment.
