New, Modest Body Scanner Unveiled in Vegas
The TSA is unveiling a new, more discrete body scanner in Las Vegas.
Feb. 1, 2011— -- The Transportation Security Administration is unveiling a new, more modest full-body scanner today at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.
"We are always looking for new technology and procedures that will both enhance security while strengthening privacy protections," TSA Administrator John S. Pistole said in a statement.
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The current scanners show the detailed contours of the participant's body on a screen and are viewed only by a second screener in a private room, where they would report back to the checkpoint if they see anything suspicious.
New, Generic Outline
Instead, the new software will now show a generic, chalk-like outline of a body that will be identical for all passengers. If there is a threat, a red box will appear on the outline at the location of the object. If there is no threat, an "OK" will appear on the screen without an outline.
It will also allow the passengers to see what the TSA agents see when they step through the scanner. With the new generic body outlines, there is no need for a second screening of the images in another room.
The new system is being tested to determine if it can provide the same level of security as the previous, more controversial model.
"Testing this new software will help us confirm test results that indicate it can provide the same high level of security as current advanced imaging technology units while further enhancing the privacy prtoections already in place," Pistole said.
Further Testing Required
The new software will also be tested at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the next few days. Complete testing will take 45 to 60 days.
The new software is just for millimeter wave machines, which make up 239 of the approximately 500 scanners that are available in 78 airports throughout the nation. The remaining machines are backscatter devices.
The body scanners, also known as advanced imaging technology units, are meant to screen passengers for threats without making them undergo physical contact.