1. GE
Security
The VaporTracer detects and identifies microscopic This unit was developed with support from the
traces of both explosives and narcotics in seconds. A Counter-Drug Technology Development Program
front-end desorption unit allows the VaporTracer to use established by the U.S. Department of Defense. The
the same high-efficiency sampling system originally program serves agencies such as the U.S. Customs
developed for GE’s Itemiser*. The result is enhanced Service, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Federal Aviation
performance in particle sampling. Administration, and the President’s Office of National
Drug Control Policy.
VaporTracer *
Handheld Explosives and Narcotics Detection
GE Security’s versatile
handheld ITMS* detector sets
a new standard in sensitivity
for portable particle and
vapor sampling.
Applications
• Airports and seaports
• Customs/border interdiction
• Military facilities
• Embassies
• Government buildings
• Nuclear plants
• Petrochemical facilities
• Public utilities
• Prisons
• High-security events
imagination at work
2. Patented ITMS Technology Vapor and Particle Sampling Technology
Advantage The VaporTracer is able to switch between particle and vapor sampling for
optimal detection of a wide range of substances. The VaporTracer closes
GE’s patented Ion Trap Mobility loopholes by offering both options, vapor or particle sampling mode, with
Spectrometer (ITMS) technology minimal downtime to switch methods.
helps detect a wide range of
Easy-to-Use Operator Interface
substances with accuracy and Results require no interpretation, so operators may concentrate on obtaining
speed. ITMS detectors can increase a good sample. VaporTracer’s on-board computer handles all data logging
ionization efficiency, the main factor automatically, including time, date, and sample analysis for each alarm.
for determining detection sensitivity. Sampled data can be downloaded from a laptop, recalled or printed.
Due to the trap and membrane
• Particle swipe: Teflon®-coated fiberglass Particle swipe
design, ITMS technology may sample traps are swiped across a
operate in dusty, humid, and high- surface and then inserted into the
traffic areas, maintaining its VaporTracer for analysis. Traps are
precision performance even in reusable and compatible with GE’s
Itemiser. Applications include skin,
harsh “real world” environments.
baggage, cargo, vehicles, containers,
Maintaining sensitivity in these tickets and ID cards.
conditions is crucial for operating
on ships, at vehicle checkpoints, • Vapor sampling (direct): Vapors are Vapor sampling
crime scenes, or first response sites. drawn through a nozzle directly into
the detector for analysis. Applications
include cargo containers, car trunks
and luggage.
• Vacuum sampling (remote): A
detachable vacuum sample wand
(optional) draws vapors into a sponge-
like sample trap, which is then inserted
into the VaporTracer for analysis. Vacuum sampling
Applications include cargo containers,
car trunks and luggage.
3. Features and Benefits
Sensitivity/ • Patented ITMS technology helps increase ion population, enabling detection of
Selectivity microscopic traces of explosives and narcotics
• Detects a wide range of targeted substances
Versatile • Optimized particle or vapor sampling mode for effective sample collection
• Semi-permeable membrane helps exclude dust and dirt to allow continued operation in
environments that have high traffic, humidity or contamination
• Identifies multiple explosive or narcotic substances from a single sample
• Expandable libraries to accommodate unique user requirements
Cost Effective • Helps reduce capital investments by providing a single solution for both narcotics
and explosives detection
• Utilizes same sample traps as the Itemiser and may reduce cost of consumables
and storage requirements
Portable • Lightweight 7 lbs (3.2 kg) and compact for easy transport
• Optional extended life battery (up to 6 hours) for field operation
• 12VDC cigarette lighter adapter for convenient charging during transport
Reliable • Automatically saves test results, preventing deletions
Easy to Use • Software upgrades can be easy to install
• Local language options available
Fast • Warm up time, approximately 20 minutes
• Quick analysis and results in as little as 8 seconds