American Science & Engineering

AS&E's SmartCheck system is the most effective way to screen for contraband and threats hidden under a person's clothing. Its capability goes well beyond that of metal detectors because it simultaneously detects both metallic and non-metallic objects, such as guns and knives, plastic and liquid explosives, composite weapons, drugs and other hidden threats and contraband. And its Z Backscatter image gives the operator an easy-to-read display of where the threat or contraband is hidden, thus eliminating the need for intrusive and time-consuming pat-down and strip searches. It is easy to use and, depending on the operating mode, the system requires only one or two operators. The SmartCheck system is safe for all individuals and complies with all applicable U.S. personnel scanning regulations. An optional privacy image protects the privacy of screened persons and still effectively displays threats.

Privacy Image

AS&E's optional privacy image presents only an outline of the scanned individual and quickly and reliably outlines any potential threats on the body, all while ensuring the person's privacy.

SmartCheck Displays

• Plastic and liquid explosives
• Composite weapons
• Plastic and metal guns
• Drugs and other contraband
• Ceramic and metal knives
• Box cutters
• Precious metals
• Recording devices

Operating Features

• Length: 64" (163 cm)
• Width: 46" (117 cm)
• Height: 90" (229 cm)
• Transport Height: 79" (201 cm)
• Transport Width: 34" (87 cm)
• Weight: 1,500 lbs (680 kg)
• Mobility: Equipped with swivel casters and leveling feet

Z Backscatter Technology

AS&E's Z Backscatter is a patented technology based on the X-ray Compton Scattering effect. Z Backscatter works by detecting and highlighting "low Z" materials (items that contain low atomic number elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen). Low Z materials include explosives, plastic weapons and drugs. The SmartCheck personnel screening system displays these items as bright and well-defined objects, making it easy to identify hidden materials, and to clearly determine which might be security threats.

The SmartCheck system is also able to reveal threats such as metal weapons and bomb-detonating wires (items that contain "high Z" elements - those with high atomic number). The system operates by detecting scattered X-rays, but it also recognizes the lack of scattering that occurs when high Z materials are placed against the body. These high Z or metal objects absorb X-rays and are displayed as dark objects on the scanned image. Thus the system is able to display all metallic and organic threats and contraband anywhere on a person's body. The high quality and clarity of Z Backscatter images reduce operator fatigue while increasing productivity.

AS&E holds more than 20 patents on Z Backscatter technology.

Health and Safety

American National Standards Institute (ANSI): Meets the applicable requirements of ANSI/HPS N43.17 dated March 15, 2002

Effective X-Ray Dose as measured per ANSI standard: Less than 0.1 µSv (10 µRem) per scan

Certifications: CE, UL/TUV