What you need to know
- Microsoft could test out a new type of body scanner according to new FCC filings.
- The scanners use millimeter-wave radiation and machine learning to detect objects.
- The scanners only require two fixed panels to work.
Microsoft could test a new type of body scanner according to two FCC filings (1, 2). The scanners use millimeter-wave radiation and machine learning to detect objects. Geekwire first reported on the FCC filings.
The FCC filings are for the Rohde & Schwarz Quick Personnel Security Scanner. Rohde & Schwarz explain the capabilities of the scanners more on the product's website.
The body scanners can detect metal, plastic, and ceramic objects, but only require two fixed panels to work. The scanners also work quickly. One of the FCC filings describes how the scanners work:
The detection software uses machine-trained algorithms to search for conspicuous objects of all material types. The scanner searches for anomalies indicating unusual objects rather than for certain items, enabling it to discover unknown and new threats.
Rohde & Schwarz stated in its filing that "Microsoft intends to evaluate the effectiveness of the scanner device within a vestibule together with other security equipment to create a self-service physical security gate."
While these filings could indicate that Microsoft will test these scanners, Microsoft would not confirm or deny the tests to Geekwire, and Rohde & Schwartz did not respond to Geekwire's inquiries.
