# millimeter wave scanner

> whole-body imaging device

**Wikidata**: [Q2404926](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2404926)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millimeter_wave_scanner)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/millimeter-wave-scanner

## Summary
A millimeter wave scanner is a whole-body imaging device that uses millimeter-wave radiation to create images, primarily used for security screening. It is classified as a type of image scanner.

## Key Facts
- Classified as a subclass of image scanner (a device that optically scans objects and converts them to digital images).
- Also known as: ミリ波スキャナー (Japanese alias).
- Freebase ID: /m/0413f5s.
- Sitelink count: 8 (across Wikimedia projects).
- Wikipedia title: Millimeter wave scanner.
- Available in Wikipedia languages: ca, commons, en, fr, it, ja, ru, simple.
- Wikidata description: whole-body imaging device.
- Wolfram Language entity code: Entity["MeasurementDevice", "MillimeterWaveScanner"].
- Microsoft Academic ID (discontinued): 2778560805.
- Encyclopedia of China (Third Edition) ID: 65187.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of a millimeter wave scanner?
A: A millimeter wave scanner is primarily used for whole-body imaging in security screening, such as at airports, to detect concealed objects without physical contact.

### Q: How does a millimeter wave scanner differ from traditional X-ray scanners?
A: Unlike X-ray scanners that use ionizing radiation, millimeter wave scanners use non-ionizing millimeter-wave radiation, making them safer for frequent scanning applications.

### Q: Where are millimeter wave scanners most commonly deployed?
A: They are most commonly deployed in security checkpoints, particularly at airports, for passenger screening and threat detection.

### Q: What technology does a millimeter wave scanner use to create images?
A: It uses millimeter-wave radio frequencies, which penetrate clothing but not the human body, to reflect off objects and form an image.

## Why It Matters
Millimeter wave scanners represent a significant advancement in non-invasive security screening technology. They provide a safer alternative to ionizing radiation scanners, enabling more frequent and widespread use for detecting concealed threats like weapons or explosives without physical pat-downs. Their ability to create detailed images of the human body while respecting privacy (often anonymizing images) has revolutionized airport and facility security protocols worldwide. This technology addresses critical security needs while minimizing health risks and streamlining passenger processing.

## Notable For
- Being a whole-body imaging device utilizing non-ionizing millimeter-wave radiation.
- Its classification strictly under the broader category of image scanners.
- Deployment as a primary tool in airport security screening for threat detection.
- Availability in multiple languages across Wikimedia projects (wikipedia, commons), indicating global relevance.
- Recognition in specialized encyclopedias like the Encyclopedia of China (ID: 65187).

## Body
### Technology Overview
- Operates using millimeter-wave frequencies, typically within the range of 30 GHz to 300 GHz.
- Emits non-ionizing radiation that penetrates clothing but reflects off the human body and concealed objects.
- Sensors detect reflected signals to construct a 3D image of the scanned individual.

### Classification
- Explicitly classified as a subclass of "image scanner," which is defined as a device that optically scans objects and converts them to digital images.

### Applications
- Primarily used for security screening in controlled environments like airports, courthouses, and government facilities.
- Detects metallic and non-metallic concealed objects, including weapons, explosives, and other contraband.
- Offers a faster, less intrusive alternative to traditional physical pat-downs.

### Data Points
- Has a documented sitelink count of 8 across Wikimedia projects (e.g., Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons).
- Identified by a specific Microsoft Academic ID: 2778560805 (now discontinued).
- Listed in the Encyclopedia of China (Third Edition) with ID: 65187.

### Representation
- Features a dedicated entry on Wikidata described as a "whole-body imaging device."
- Has a defined Wolfram Language entity code: Entity["MeasurementDevice", "MillimeterWaveScanner"].
- Content available in multiple languages including English, French, Japanese (ミリ波スキャナー), Russian, Italian, Catalan, and Simple English.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013