Merlin133 Contraband Detector
by Allen Vanguard

Fully microprocessor controlled

Detector
Thallium doped caesium iodide scintillation crystal

Source
Sealed barium 133

Activity
370kBq (10µCi)

Protective shielding
Tungsten alloy

Safety
Automatic source retraction when not in use

Operational modes

- Basic data display
- Basic data display & auto audio alarm
- Normalised data reading & auto audio alarm
- Basic data display & continuous, variable pitch audio signal
- Radiation monitor

Audio
volume 88dB pulse @ 10cm

Visual display
31/2 digit LCD

Backlight
LED (independently operated)

Headphones
Audio output for covert audio alarm

Battery
2 × 'C' cells (duration - 3-6 months normal day to day use if utilising alkaline batteries)

Dimensions
Mainbody: L110mm, W66mm, H60mm
Handle: L145mm

Weight
1.1kg


Easy to use
Safe 370kBq source
Fast results
Easy calibration
Reliable
Non-Destructive

Detects:

Nuclear material
Drugs
Explosives
Firearms
False panels/hides

The Merlin133 Contraband Detector is a portable, lightweight instrument that indicates the presence of hidden material by signalling unexpected changes in the density or thickness of a surface. For example, an 'empty' tyre filled with air will register a lower reading than one filled with drugs.

In operation the detector emits a beam of energy into the object being inspected and measures the backscatter. A filled space reflects back more energy than an empty space. As the detector is moved across the surface of the object the measured backscatter is displayed on an LCD digital readout and an alarm sounds if the reading changes.

To operate the detector is first placed anywhere on the surface of an object and held for two seconds while a 'normal' reading is registered. The detector is then moved across the surface of the object and any changes in density will trigger an alarm.

The contraband detector also features a unique radiation detection function which allows the instrument to detect the presence of concealed radioactive material. Audio output resembles a traditional geiger counter in this mode.

Looks beneath the surface. The detector uses a narrow beam of gamma rays to analyse the density or thickness of a surface and is capable of penetrating wood, metal, textiles, plastic, etc. Since every surface has a predictable density, unexpected changes become obvious. With the exception of photographic and x-ray film the gamma rays cause no damage to the objects being inspected.

This technology is now widely used in the fight against drugs around the world.

Typical Applications

Tyres. Compare readings on a 'clean' tyre to readings on a 'suspect' tyre.

Car doors. Normalise the detector on the centre of a door with the window up. As the detector is moved around the door, variations in the signal will indicate the presence of the frame, electric window motors and any hidden contraband.

Fuel tanks. Normalise the detector on the underside of the tank and observe changes in the display or alarm as the detector is moved. The fuel level on the side of the tank will also produce a signal change.

Freight containers. Check walls for hidden panels, examine cross members which may contain contraband.

Universal calibration - works anywhere. All instruments are calibrated against a universal standard. A serialised calibration block is issued with each detector to permit user calibration in the field.

Reliable - Built in self diagnostics. A built in self-diagnostic program permits the user to check the operation of the microprocessor and display.

Optional Accessories. Two lengths of extension arm are available, at 400mm and 3m long; allowing inaccessible surfaces to be searched, such as the insulated walls of high sided vehicles or ceilings within buildings.

A remote display/control unit allows the operator to see and control all of the electronic functions of the instrument when using either of the extension arms or simply when the main unit is inconveniently placed (e.g. under a car).

For further details download the pdf document here.