Search Systems Incorporated: Technical Search & Survellance Equipment

Nine years of research and development have gone into making the finest technical search system available to extend the human senses of vision and hearing into undesirable and confined spaces. The SEARCHCAM 2000 Contraband Detection System is a continuation of the same fine quality, functionality, durability, and reliability found in previous SEARCHCAM models that have been continuously proven under the most demanding and rugged conditions. The best features of previous models have been integrated with many new electronic and structural enhancements to provide a superb technical search system.

The SEARCHCAM 2000 CDS was developed in cooperation with the United States Departments of Customs and Agriculture to facilitate searches of spaces that may contain contraband materials or persons seeking illegal entry. The Searchcam allows thorough search of cargo holds, rudder compartments, bilge compartments, shipping containers, cargo trailers, storage tanks and inaccessible voids without the need for an operator to enter undesirable areas, use forced entry, or the requirement to unload cargo.

The SEARCHCAM 2000 CDS is a highly mobile surveillance system. The system consists of a miniature, high resolution, color, video camera; and variable intensity illumination in the remotely controlled articulating camera head affixed to the end of a selection of probes that can be inserted into small openings. The integrated, variable intensity, Xenon illumination allows the operator to view high quality images as close as a few inches to a distance of over 20' (6m) in total darkness on the 5" LCD monitor. Much longer viewing distances are achieved in daylight or low light situations. An integrated and highly sensitive audio surveillance / communications component is optional.

The waterproof, articulating camera head can pan right to left 180° providing a viewing angle of 260°. The relative camera position is communicated graphically to the operator on the monitor in 15° increments from center. The camera head automatically returns to center when the unit is turned off. The telescoping probe collapses to 1-1/2 meters and extends to 7 meters. Articulation, illumination, and audio are remotely controlled using digital interface rocker switches housed in the ergonomically designed pistol grip control handle. Illumination, battery residual, and relative camera position are all continuously monitored and communicated to the operator via on screen graphic display.

A selection of two probe types is available; a rigid telescoping probe (7 meters) or a cable probe (250'/76m). The telescoping probe is machined from high strength aluminum and the hard anodized finish protects against corrosion and abrasion. The integrated design allows the rescuer to easily carry the light weight probe in one hand and navigate through difficult surroundings uninhibited by the system. The cable probe is stored on a permanently mounted live reel that can be easily transported by an operator.

The system is powered by one sealed, lead acid battery pack weighing six pounds (2.7kg), and it conveniently clips to the operator's belt. The unit will provide three continuous hours of operation. Continuous operation is supported by a second battery unit and an AC dual voltage battery charger that will charge a completely discharged battery to 90% in two hours. When the 90% level is achieved, the charger automatically enters a trickle charge mode until the battery reaches a 100% charge. The charger will not overcharge the battery even when it remains attached. A charged battery will retain its charge for months while in storage, losing approximately 5% per month.

The entire system consists of; a control unit, video monitor, one of two available probes, sun shield, lanyard, two batteries, battery charger, field maintenance kit, operations and maintenance manual, and carry/storage cases. The components are stored in two cases; one Pelican® (foam-lined, high impact plastic, water and dust tight), and one WilsonCase® duralite. The Pelican case stores the control unit, batteries, battery charger and sun shield. The other case houses the rigid telescoping probe.

Optional accessories for the unit include; heads up display; a remote 5" hand held video display (hard wired); display extension cables (15' - 4.6m); a video output cable (7 pin auxiliary port to BNC / RCA).