Detection Technology, a global leader in X-ray detector solutions, today unveiled the Aurora XS to address the cost efficiency and reliability requirements of the urban security screening market. The Aurora XS adapts to versatile X-ray imaging systems, which secure safety on train and metro stations, and in public buildings and event venues, for example. The Aurora XS is available as a complete subsystem that includes detectors, a control unit, and software libraries for rapid time-to-market of cost-effective X-ray systems.

“Almost everything is extra small in the Aurora XS, the newcomer to our Aurora product family. The abbreviation XS in the name stands for small bill of materials, small mechanics, small weight, small pixel size, small carbon footprint, and last but not least a smaller price, which is the most important enabler for succeeding in this price-driven segment. With the Aurora XS, small efforts and less risk-taking are required to introduce X-ray systems to entry-level non-aviation security systems that are known for their small form factors,” summarizes Jyrki Still, CTO at Detection Technology.

“What is not small in the Aurora XS is innovativeness and reliability. The Aurora XS is built on a novel detector platform that is boosted by unique algorithms and an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC. These smart features make reliable dual-energy imaging with a single-layer sensor possible. In our view, we are the first in the industry to introduce such a simplified detector structure to the security market. This is a good example of our aim to simplify hardware by rethinking detector designs.”

The Aurora XS has a durable structure with reliable mechanical and electrical interfaces, and a robust sensor for stringent radiation hardness requirements, and harsh imaging conditions such as humidity, mechanical stress, and temperature changes. With its robustness and simplified structure, the Aurora XS also enhances more environmental sound screening than conventional detector solutions in the segment. Furthermore, it supports safe and easy installation and maintenance.

The Aurora XS provides imaging performance that meets industry regulations and responds to urban security requirements, even at low X-ray flux. The low-noise Aurora XS features a fully digitalized data path. It is equipped with an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC, which effectively mitigates the impact of external electromagnetic interferences. The Aurora XS has a wide sensitivity range from 0.25 pF to 31.75 pF with 127 controllable gain-setting steps, which ensure adaptability for the entire range of the urban X-ray screening applications.

“The Aurora XS completes our offering to the security segment, as now our Aurora solutions cover all imaging needs from entry- to high-tier applications. The original Aurora detector series was introduced for mid-tier, and the Aurora CT for high-tier imaging, and now we have a perfect match for the entry level as well.”