Abstract: A security system for detecting contraband such as explosives. The system has a source of radiation and a detector array. A detector array is made of many small detectors, each with a fast response time. The fast response time allows individual radiation photon interactions with each detector to be counted. By counting the number of interactions in an interval of time, the amount of radiation reaching the detector can be measured. The magnitude of the response from the detector to each radiation interaction allows measurement of the energy level of the photons interacting with the detector. Such a system provides significant flexibility in analyzing data collected from items under inspection. For example, objects such as contraband can be identified within the item under inspection by processing the data to accurately determine both the density and type of material.

Abstract: An improved interconnection protocol that is well suited for use in an inspection system or similar modular electronic system. Communication is provided over a network where the electronic modules are nodes, including a root node and multiple remote nodes. The root node and remote nodes are connected through multiple point-to-point synchronous links. The root node and remote nodes are configured to send and receive packets in either a short form or a normal form. Timing between the root node and remote nodes is provided by an external clock distributed by the root node. Each remote node responds to commands with low latency. This protocol allows normal packets to be configured to provide variable payload length, with a maximum payload size that yields a low protocol overhead.