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TSA Installs New State-Of-Art 3D Checkpoint Scanners At Trenton-Mercer Airport

A new bomb-detection system is expected to speed up baggage check-ins at Trenton-Mercer Airport.

One of the two new 3-D computed tomography units that have recently been installed at Trenton-Mercer Airport.

One of the two new 3-D computed tomography units that have recently been installed at Trenton-Mercer Airport.

Photo Credit: TSA
A new 3D checkpoint scanner at Mercer-Trenton Airport.

A new 3D checkpoint scanner at Mercer-Trenton Airport.

Photo Credit: TSA

The Transportation Security Administration has installed new state-of-the-art 3-D checkpoint scanners to improve explosives detection, the TSA said in a press statement.

Two new advanced technology computed tomography (CT) scanners that provide 3-D imaging have been installed at Trenton-Mercer Airport, providing critical explosives detection capabilities for screening carry-on items, TSA said.

The three-dimensional image can be viewed and rotated 360 degrees on three axes for thorough visual image analysis by a transportation security officer.

It takes a few extra seconds for the TSA officer to view the image and rotate it to get a better understanding of its contents. In most instances, rotating the image allows the TSA officer to identify an item inside the bag and clear it without a need to open it for inspection. Checkpoint CT technology should result in fewer bag checks, TSA said.

“TSA remains committed to getting the best technology to enhance security and improve the screening experience,” said Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director for New Jersey, shortly before TSA officers cut a bright blue ribbon to mark the addition of the new units at the airport. 

“Our officers’ use of CT technology substantially improves our threat detection capability at the checkpoint," Carter said. 

Previously, TSA's screening technology for carry-on bags used 2-D images. 

The CT technology applies advanced algorithms for the detection of explosives, including liquid explosives and other threat items, Carter said.

Passengers using these machines at Trenton will be permitted to leave their laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags. 

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