Smiths teams on standoff detection
Brian M Walters
Smiths Detection (Stand 2219) is a major supplier of screening and detection technology to both defence and security markets. Now, following a teaming agreement with Canadian optical systems specialist Telops, the company is accessing electro-optical technology to develop a standoff detection capability, being promoted here for the first time. Telop has developed Fourier Transform technology to enable the detection, identification and qualification of airborne chemical agents at a distance of a few kilometres in a variety of environments.
The lightweight and portable advanced infrared instruments can be used as standalone and unmanned sensors to complement the hand-held and portable detectors supplied by Smiths. However, it is hand-held biological agent detection equipment that has been the subject of a significant recent order from a country in this region. The Bio-Seeq portable detection and identification devices will allow military and emergency services personnel to make a quick determination of any biological agent risks from unknown substances.
The rugged, hand-held Bio-Seeq can be powered by batteries, vehicle adapter or AC plug-in. The unit can test up to six different samples simultaneously but independently. Bio-Seeq detects the presence of spores and provides extremely accurate results by analysing the DNA of an organism. Thus, the power of a chemist’s laboratory can now be out in the hands of military forces and first responders such as firefighters, hazmat teams and police.
 Bio-Seeq has a membrane keyboard with extra large keys, suitable for users wearing heavy gloves |