Overview
IEC 63391:2024 - "Active millimetre-wave systems for security screening of humans – General requirements" - defines technical requirements, test methods, and signage for active millimetre‑wave (MMW) security screening systems operating between 3 GHz and 150 GHz (100 mm to 2 mm). The standard applies to systems that use active MMW imaging to detect objects carried on a person (not in vehicles, containers or enclosures). It sets requirements for safe, repeatable testing and product documentation but does not prescribe minimum image quality, baseline automated threat recognition (ATR) performance, or minimum detection times.
Key topics and technical requirements
IEC 63391 covers practical, testable elements needed for system development, testing and deployment:
- Scope and definitions relevant to MMW security screening and ATR terminology.
- Environmental conditions and climatic testing to verify reliable operation in expected field environments.
- Major test instruments and tools required for conformity testing.
- Appearance and structure requirements and test methods for mechanical and human‑interface aspects.
- Functionality and performance test methods, including imaging performance and detection-time measurement procedures (note: it does not set minimum performance thresholds).
- Power requirements and testing for supply conditions and robustness.
- Safety: electromagnetic radiation safety, electrical and mechanical safety provisions to protect screened persons and operators.
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC): immunity and emission testing per IEC EMC series.
- System noise, environmental and mechanical compliance testing, and a testing overview with recommended test positions and fault conditions.
- Marking and documentation requirements, including signage to inform subjects and operators.
Practical applications and who uses this standard
IEC 63391 is intended for stakeholders involved in the lifecycle of active MMW security systems:
- Manufacturers and OEMs designing millimetre‑wave imaging systems.
- Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies developing and performing standardized test plans.
- Security integrators and system installers specifying equipment for airports, mass‑transit hubs, critical infrastructure, event security and other checkpoints.
- Procurement teams and regulators who need objective, reproducible test methods and safety guidance for specification and acceptance.
- Research and development teams validating prototypes against recognized test procedures.
Related Standards (if applicable)
Relevant referenced documents include IEC environmental and EMC standards (IEC 60068, IEC 61000 series), safety standards (IEC 60204‑1, IEC 61010‑1), and exposure guidance such as IEEE C95.1‑2019 and ICNIRP. IEEE N42.59 (imaging performance) is noted as related for performance measurement.
Keywords: IEC 63391, active millimetre‑wave, MMW security screening, millimeter‑wave imaging, ATR, test methods, electromagnetic safety, EMC, signage.