Automated X-ray Machines

Automated X-ray systems are used for the first level of baggage screening. While not as accurate as EDS machines, they are much faster and much less costly. Typically, they operate at a rate of 1,200 to 1,800 bags/hour, faster than explosive detection systems (EDS). Bags flagged by the automated system as “questionable” are sent to operator station, where a human operator reviews the image on a screen. Those bags not cleared by this second look are routed to an EDS machine. Automated X-ray machine is not sufficient by itself. But it permits the slow and expensive EDS machines to be used only for exceptional bags.