In July 2016, the Procurement Office of the German Federal Ministry of the Interior signed a framework agreement with Rohde & Schwarz for 300 R&S QPS200 security scanners. The new instruments can be now be used by the German Federal Police Force to perform security checks. The primary application for this will be security checks at German airports.
The R&S®QPS is a state-of-the-art millimeter-wave full-body scanner that automatically detects potentially dangerous items carried on the body or in clothing. The scanner can be used for airport security checks, security at public events with a high threat potential and access control at securityrelated facilities.
The three-year framework agreement encompasses 300 systems plus accessories and service. With the introduction of this scanner Rohde & Schwarz have successfully entered a new business segment. The millimeter-wave technology is based on the company's many years of expertise in developing globally leading test and measurement equipment. The security scanner automatically detects potentially dangerous objects under clothing or on the body, whether they are rigid, flexible, fluid, metallic or non-metallic. If the scanner reports an alarm, the location of the object is marked on an avatar, a symbolic graphic of the human body.
There is no health hazard associated with the R&S QPS transmit power, which is hundreds or even thousands of times lower than that of a mobile phone. It operates in the frequency range between 70 GHz and 80 GHz. A scan takes just a few milliseconds to complete. Scanning comfort is also improved since the individual being scanned simply stands in front of the scanner with their arms held slightly away from the body. The neutral graphical display preserves privacy.
This security scanner, which has been certified by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), has been thoroughly tested for suitability by the Federal Police, including a test phase extending over several months at Hannover Airport. This framework agreement represents Rohde & Schwarz's largest order for security scanners to date. Additional orders from other countries in Europe and around the world have already been received.
