Technology Worthy of CSI but Tailored for a PMP

Editor's note: This month’s issue includes a story about Termatrac and how this product could create a paradigm shift in termite treatment for PMPs. The following article, “Technology Worthy of CSI but Tailored for a PMP,” includes additional information about Termatrac.

The Termatrac T3i combines three of the most effective tools to detect, locate and confirm the presence of termites into one hand-held unit that is easy for technicians to transport and use. According to Allen Fugler, executive vice president of the Florida Pest Management Association, the Termatrac T3i technology represents Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in practice. “The Termatrac is a great example of a unique application of technology developed to meet industry needs based on the knowledge of an insect’s biology and behavior to ultimately produce more effective and environmentally-sound outcomes,” he said.

Here’s a look at what the Termatrac T3i offers and how each technology works:
•    Patented termite detection radar activated with a switch of a button and used by placing the T3i unit against the surface area to detect movement. The termite detection radar emits a microwave signal specifically calibrated to the shape of a termite, where its reflection detects the movement of a target through a solid material. The signal can penetrate dense materials in walls, ceilings, and floors, including timber, cement sheet, tiles, carpet, vinyl and other common building materials. In use, a bar graph on the PDA displays the activity level of any termites present. Once a positive reading is established, the tracking procedure shows the technician the extent of activity and the direction the termites have traveled. This enables the technician to locate termite nests and also follow termite leads to locate the entry point of infestation.
•    Remote thermal sensor with laser guide activated by scanning the surface area with the T3i hand-held unit. Temperature readings are displayed on the PDA which enables the technician to determine high-risk areas where termites could likely be present based on the areas of heat generated by termites within common building structures.
•    Moisture sensor activated by scanning the surface area with the T3i hand-held unit. The PDA displays a moisture variation and chart graph to show areas of excess moisture which allows a technician to identify possible risk areas for termites.
•    Bluetooth wireless technology links the T3i and PDA unit together and allows the devices to be moved and positioned independently during operation. This means the T3i can be positioned in difficult-to-reach places and the sensor data viewed in a more comfortable location. Data collected and stored in the PDA can be exported to a PC where the job management program organizes inspection data along with field logs and notes. Technicians can create detailed property reports for analysis, customer presentation, and as a guide for future site inspection.

For more information about the Termatrac T3i, visit www.termatrac.com.