Smiths Detection Launches Advanced Handheld Chemical Identifier

Designed for Widest Range of Military and Emergency Response Incidents

Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announces the launch of a new portable chemical identifier specially designed for diverse field operations requiring quick and easy identification of unknown solids or liquids. The HazMatID Ranger is based on the company's market-leading HazMatIDâ„¢, a field-based solid and liquid identifier used by military and civil responders around the world.

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: "Our products already lead the way in advanced security solutions for military and civil markets, but we are always seeking new opportunities to broaden our industry position. The Ranger extends the versatility of our emergency response tool kit offering, which includes the HazMatID, the most widely used portable identifier in the field."

Designed for handheld, backpack or robot-portability and ease of use in protective gear, the HazMatID Ranger is capable of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis by simply touching the diamond sensor tip to a sample. In seconds, the light-weight system provides Responders' with both spectral results and a list of probable substances to help identify chemicals, as well as the actual components in mixtures.

Bob Bohn, Director of Sales & Marketing, Smiths Detection Global Military/Emergency Response, said: "Users familiar with the HazMatID product line will benefit from the same speed, ease of use, and accuracy in Ranger operation, software and analysis. The Ranger is the ideal tool for particularly challenging missions such as over large areas, through awkward spaces or incidents requiring multiple sampling."

The HazMatID Ranger library allows responders to identify over 32,000 suspicious white powders, WMDs, explosives, common and toxic chemicals. The system is also supported by ReachBackâ„¢ 24/7/365 technical assistance to aid responders with spectral interpretation in the field.

Bohn continued: "It was important to combine broad mobility with our vast, credible libraries, and superior user support to give responders maximum capabilities to successfully resolve any mission."

Smiths Detection will unveil the HazMatID Ranger at the International Association of Fire Chiefs Show, in Hunt Valley, MD, May 30, 2008.