Logan tests device that sniffs out explosive liquids

[question everything]

The Boston Globe
Logan tests device that sniffs out explosive liquids
Scanners won't end need for carry-on rules but will make skies safer, TSA says

By Peter J. Howe, Globe Staff | May 25, 2007

Logan International Airport yesterday became one of six big US airports testing a new hand-held liquid-explosives detection scanning system.

For now, the scanning devices won't change any of the toughened restrictions on liquids in carry-on bags, said George N. Naccara, head of the Transportation Security Administration for the northeastern United States. Passengers at Logan and the five other airports will still have to follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: They can't bring containers of liquids or gels containing more than 3 ounces, whatever containers they bring must fit into a one-quart clear bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger.

But Naccara is optimistic that the devices, made by Washington, D.C., homeland security and defense contractor ICX Technologies Inc., will make air travel safer and give passengers that much more faith in airport security.

(snip)

Costing $20,000 to $25,000 each, the 4-pound, hand-held devices look a little like a store scanner. TSA screeners aim the tip of the device at containers carrying liquids and vapors are drawn in and analyzed for traces of explosive compounds. Within seconds a coded digital display indicates if the substance being tested is showing suspect concentrations of the compounds, which Naccara said he could not name for security reasons.

(snip)

The other five airports where the devices are being used are Detroit Metro Wayne County, McCarran International in Las Vegas, Los Angeles International, Miami International, and Newark Liberty International.

http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2007/05/25/logan_tests_device_that_sniffs_out_explosive_liquids/

[TreasonousBastard]

1. How about a device that sniffs out bad food? n/t