A Closer Look: TrueTrace Technology

TrueTrace is a patented, multiplexed luminescence technology used in all FLIR Fido X-Series handheld explosives
trace detectors. Each TrueTrace sensing material is uniquely formulated to react to a specific class of explosives.
The slightest change in luminosity is measured to determine the presence of invisible explosives residue. TrueTrace
enables Fido X-Series detectors to deliver fast and accurate screening results to mass transit checkpoints, sporting
arenas and critical infrastructure.

What is
checkpoint screening?

What technology
is used for portable
trace detection?
IMS-based ETDs and canines are used to screen
for explosives due to their speed of detection
and sensitivity. Colorimetric indicators are
deployed in screening scenarios because of
their ease of use and ability to detect small bulk
levels of explosives. TrueTrace-enabled ETDs
combine sensitivity, speed, and ease of use for
checkpoint screening applications.

A number of complementary techniques

such as canines, ion mobility spectrometers
(IMS), mass spectrometers (MS), and x-rays
are used in checkpoints. Handheld explosive
trace detectors (ETDs) provide portable
screening capability for entry control
checkpoints, random screening checkpoints,
and elevated threat patrol.

What are the

key advantages
of TrueTrace?

How are handheld

explosives trace detectors
used at a checkpoint?
Front line operators collect surface residue from
first touch areas on vehicles, laptops, bags, cell
phones, belts, crates, boxes, letters, and other
items using a sample ticket. The ticket is inserted
into an ETD that analyzes the residue and presents
an all-clear response or threat alarm.

TrueTrace detects a broad range of

explosives at trace levels that are
invisible to the operator. It detects many
emerging explosive formulations without
modification, to protect against future
threats. TrueTrace also maximizes system
availability during high-threat scenarios
with quick three-minute start-up, fast
ten-second analysis, and rapid, reliable
clear-down that is measured in seconds.

A Closer Look: TrueTrace Technology

How TrueTrace works
1.

the vapor enters

2. When
the system, explosive

THREAT DETECTED

molecules are swept

across the TrueTrace
detection materials.

Using a sampling swipe (A),

trace particles are collected from
a surface and concentrated onto
the swipe. The sampling swipe
is inserted into the detector (B)
for analysis. As the particles are
heated, they vaporize and are
drawn into the detector.

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change in response
3. The
on each detection

THREAT DETECTED

channel is measured
and analyzed by
the detector.

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molecule does
4. Ifnottheinteract
in a
specific way with the
TrueTrace material, the
detector will report
NO THREAT FOUND.

NO THREAT FOUND

INFO

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2015 FLIR Systems Inc. All Rights Reserved. Created 10/21/15

WWW.FLIR.COM/TrueTrace

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