Matrix MRDS™ Radiation Threat Detection Network Launched at U.S. Maritime Security Expo

Reinforcing its commitment to homeland security, Thermo Electron Corporation today unveiled Matrix MRDS, a state-of-the-art radiation threat detection network that provides real-time detection, location and analysis of radiation threats across a predetermined area. Incorporating a wireless interconnect, Matrix Mobile Radiation Detection System (MRDS) promotes error-free data transmission whether used in fixed or mobile command centers. Designed to help local governments enhance security against potential threats, this fully integrated sensor network allows users to centrally process and analyze radiation detection data from a multitude of detection tools covering the entire spectra of radiation threats.

The Matrix MRDS, along with Thermo’s full line of radiation measurement and protection equipment, were demonstrated at the U.S. Maritime Security Expo, Booth 850, at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City September 14 – 15.

“Municipalities have already made significant investments in radiation detection and they rely on companies like Thermo to continually innovate detection equipment,” said Thom Voll, director of marketing at Thermo’s Environmental Instruments Division. “But detection is just one piece of the puzzle. With Matrix MRDS, we’re taking protection to another level, allowing users to quickly compile a wealth of detection data for a unified view of an area – providing even stronger protection.”

From Lab to Field: Thermo Addresses Security Needs
Built on Thermo’s proven analytic instrumentation, the Matrix MRDS provides a flexible framework for area threat detection. The wireless network gathers radiation data in real-time from various detection probes and transmits the signal over multiple frequencies for a robust wireless connection. Matrix MRDS then compiles and correlates this information through the Thermo ViewPoint™ data engine, and provides a visual representation through an ArcView™ client, leveraging fully-integrated GPS capabilities and tapping into the market’s wide-spread use of ArcView. Deployable either in fixed or mobile control centers, Matrix MRDS enables users to quickly and accurately detect, locate and analyze threats, forming a radiation barrier.

The Matrix MRDS can potentially integrate an unlimited number of separate detectors, from hand-held to fixed systems. It also incorporates Thermo’s Natural Background Rejection (NBR) technology, greatly reducing false-positive alerts by distinguishing between naturally occurring radiation sources and potential threats.

This highly-scalable, flexible platform provides a clear path to additional centralized detection and analysis as it can be quickly upgraded to incorporate data from other sources. Thermo expects to extend the platform to additional threat detection including trace explosives, toxic gases and chemical compounds.

“Investing in the ongoing development of the scientific instruments behind today’s security measures continues to be a high priority for Thermo Electron,” said Tom Loewald, vice president of global sales and service at Thermo’s Environmental Instruments Division. “Matrix MRDS represents another step forward as we continue to deliver a stream of new products geared to meeting the needs of the homeland security market, providing customers with the reliability and performance they’ve come to rely on from Thermo Electron.”

For more information about Matrix MRDS or any of Thermo’s radiation management and protection products, please visit www.thermo.com/rmp .  

About Thermo Electron Corporation
Thermo Electron Corporation is the world leader in analytical instruments. Our instrument solutions enable our customers to make the world a healthier, cleaner and safer place. Thermo’s Life and Laboratory Sciences business provides analytical instruments, scientific equipment, services, and software solutions for life science, drug discovery, clinical, environmental, and industrial laboratories. Thermo’s Measurement and Control business is dedicated to providing analytical instruments used in a variety of manufacturing processes and in-the-field applications including those associated with safety and homeland security. Based near Boston, Massachusetts, Thermo has revenues of more than $2 billion, and employs approximately 10,000 people in 30 countries.