Law enforcement agencies are hard at work eradicating illegal substances and smuggling off the streets. Unlike decades before, they don’t have to rely on their gut feelings or rudimentary tools when they search through vehicles for hidden contraband. Nowadays, they have many choices of contraband detection tools which will significantly aid them in their difficult and tricky task which often puts them at risk.
Campbell/Harris Security Equipment Company (CSECO) has been at the forefront of contraband detection equipment for over 30 years. The company’s flagship product, the Buster Density Meter, was invented by founder Patrick J. Campbell with significant input from the Customs and Border Protection agents. CBP officers tested the Buster extensively in the field prior to its release.
The Buster’s technology – the low-intensity gamma radiation emitter and scintillation detector enables quick but accurate scan of objects and areas. These include vehicles stopping at border checkpoints which may be carrying hidden narcotics, cash, and other types of contraband.
Since its launch during the 1980s, the Buster Density Meter came to be hailed as the “gold standard” of contraband detection. The renowned position of the Buster still hasn’t waned and in fact, it is still the top density meter (for use of law enforcement) not just in the US, but in other parts of the world as well.
The Buster Density Meter is also included in CSECO’s two popular detection kits: the CT-30 Contraband Team Detection Kit and the CT-40 Contraband Team Detection Kit. Both are currently available.
Similarities between the CT-30 and the CT-40 detection kits
Both the CT-30 and the CT-40 contraband detection kits offer the same tools such as:
- Buster K910G Density Meter
The newest version of the Buster Density Meter is now equipped with safety features. The lead-based components have been removed and its radioactive source is now 25% less than that of the most leading density meters, making the Buster the safest model, both for users and the environment. - PN-Series Inspection Probe Kit
Includes several stainless-steel and grooved probes designed to trap contraband when inserted into certain objects (like sacks or upholstery) or to extract samples. - Leica Laser Range Meter
A measuring device, it is used to detect false wall, bulkheads, secret compartments and other spaces with known dimensions. - PM – 10 Extension Inspection Mirror with High-Intensity Flashlight
It allows viewing and inspection into normally dark and inaccessible areas such as underside vehicles. - CT Customer Carrying Case with Wheels
Differences between the CT-30 and the CT-40 detection kits
The CT-30 and the CT-40 kits differ in visual inspection tools. The CT-30 has the FV-Series Articulated Fiberscope with the CT-40 has the newer Perfect Vision V20 Videoscope Inspection System.
- FV-Series Articulated Fiberscope – Among its most prominent features includes the fiber optic bundle – with over 16,000 individual strands of optical fiber – which is covered by a heavy-duty tungsten coating that is fuel- and gasoline-resistant. It also features a powerful light handle visibility which allows clear viewing in the darkest areas. This is usually used in areas that are more difficult to access like fuel tanks.
- Perfect Vision V20 Videoscope – The most prominent feature of this tool is the large (5 inch), multi-directional high-resolution color LCD display with push-button dimming/brightening and digital zoom that’s 10 times of that of the leading fiberscope.
The most important feature of this videoscope, though, is the safety certification issued by Underwriters Laboratory, the leading name in product safety. The UL has declared the Perfect Vision V20 Videoscope as a “non-incendive equipment” as it has met applicable UL standards and specifications. The Perfect Vision V20 Videoscope set the industry standard as it was the first visual inspection equipment to achieve the UL safety certification.
Which kit should law enforcement agents use?
It depends on their specific requirements (and budget, as well).
If they put more emphasis on convenience and safety, then the CT-40 kit is the recommended item as it includes the Perfect Vision V20 Videoscope. It is a one-piece inspection tool (no need for a camera or video cam attachments) plus it has the UL safety certification. Its large monitor allows the law enforcement officer to view into the suspect area clearly without losing sight of his or her immediate surroundings.
That’s not to say that the FV-Series Articulated Fiberscope (included in the CT-30 kit) is unsafe. The fiber optic bundle is bound and protected by fuel- and gas-safe tungsten covering, so it can be also used in inspecting certain areas like fuel tanks with the aid of a grounding cable. This accessory has proven to be quite popular especially to law enforcement agencies overseas, so the FV-Series Articulated Fiberscope is one of the most recommended and sought-after products from the CSECO roster.
Both the CT-30 and the CT-40 Contraband Team Detection Kits have proven themselves effective as contraband detection kits for scanning and locating suspected objects and areas for hidden contraband. They are responsible for the successful seizure of billions of dollars’ worth of narcotics, other illegal substances, currency, and other contraband. For more information on both kits, contact CSECO at info@cseco.com.