What is the Price of Explosive Trace Detectors? When it comes to maintaining high-security standards in sensitive environments such as airports, borders, and government facilities, Explosive Trace Detectors (ETDs) play a crucial role. These sophisticated devices are designed to detect even the tiniest traces of explosives and narcotics, ensuring public safety and preventing potential threats.
However, understanding the cost dynamics of these devices is essential for organizations and security agencies looking to invest in reliable screening solutions. In this article, we explore the price ranges of ETDs, from standard desktop models to advanced next-generation systems, shedding light on what factors influence these costs.
What is the Price of Explosive Trace Detectors?
Explosive Trace Detectors (ETDs) are specialized security devices designed to detect minute traces of explosives and narcotics in various environments. These devices are crucial for high-security areas such as airports, borders, marine ports, and government facilities.
The price of Explosive Trace Detectors (ETDs) varies significantly based on factors such as technology, size, sensitivity, and intended application. Prices fall within several categories, including desktop-sized units and advanced next-generation systems, which will be discussed in the next section.
Prices of Desktop-Sized Explosive Trace Detector
The cost of desktop ETDs typically ranges between US $5,000 and $10,000 per unit, as indicated by some suppliers. This price is consistent across various models and manufacturers offering similar functionality.
Here are some common categories and their corresponding prices based on Safeway System listings:
- Desktop Explosive and Narcotics Detectors: FOB Price – US $5,000 per piece (Minimum Order: 1 piece)
- Security Explosive and Bomb Detectors (Tabletop Models): FOB Price – US $5,000 per piece
- Safeway System – Drug Trace Detector: FOB Price – US $5,000 per piece
- Security Explosive and Drug Trace Detection Equipment: FOB Price – US $5,000 per piece
- Explosive and Narcotics Detection Systems (CE Compliant Desktop Models): FOB Price – US $5,000 per piece
These prices reflect FOB (Free On Board) costs, meaning they exclude additional expenses such as shipping, import duties, and taxes. Buyers should also consider other costs related to maintenance, operator training, and software updates when budgeting for these devices.
For organizations or security agencies requiring advanced security screening solutions, investing in reliable ETDs ensures enhanced safety, efficiency, and long-term value.
Also read: Where to Buy ETDs & Narcotics Detectors in Nigeria | Best Seller
Prices of Advanced and Next-Generation Explosive Trace Detectors
Cutting-edge ETDs that utilize next-generation technologies such as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), nanotechnology (NEMS), and electronic-based sensors command a much higher price due to enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and portability.
- Current high-end ETDs are priced between $25,000 and $100,000+, depending on the model and capabilities.
- Miniaturized or handheld versions offer cost reductions, potentially bringing prices down to a quarter of the full-sized systems, though they may sacrifice some performance.
- Future advancements in electronic chemical detection systems show promise in drastically reducing costs to as low as $1,000 to $25 per unit, although these systems are still in development.
Cost Considerations and Future Trends
The push for enhanced security in public and government facilities has fueled research into more affordable and highly sensitive detection systems. Future devices aim to maintain high detection accuracy while offering smaller form factors and significantly lower costs, making them more accessible for widespread deployment.
Ultimately, the choice between handheld, desktop, or advanced ETDs depends on the specific security needs, budget, and environment where the devices will be used. Whether for high-traffic airports or smaller security operations, understanding the range of the price of Explosive Trace Detectors helps organizations make informed procurement decisions.
Before we wrap up our discussion on the price of Explosive Trace Detectors, let’s check out a specific trace detector and its features.
Also read: Easy Guide: How Do Explosive Trace Detectors (ETD) Work?
ZK-E8800 Portable Threats Trace Detector

The ZK-E8800 Portable Threats Trace Detector is based on Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) technology, which enables it to quickly and accurately trace explosives and narcotics at the same time and then identify the amount and types of suspicious substances. In addition, the detector has the function of X- & gamma radiation dose rate detection, which makes it a 3-in-1 threat detector.
The 4.3-inch graphic touchscreen it offers provides a friendly user experience, and its durable filter for air purification has prolonged the product’s lifetime. From the perspective of convenience and cost of maintenance, the ZK-E8800 has stood out in the market with significant advantages.
Features
- Simultaneous detection and analysis of explosives and narcotics without replacement of modules and mode switching are needed.
- Explosives detection mode (explosive detection only) and narcotic detection mode (narcotic detection only) are available according to your needs.
- Fast response, can detect ng ~ pg class explosives and narcotics.
- Able to distinguish the types of narcotics and explosives.
- Completes analysis and generates results within 2~10 seconds.
- Three levels of sensitivity, also with a hot start and standby function.
- Strong environmental adaptability works properly in highland areas.
- X- & gamma radiation dose rate detection function.
- Unique search alarm function with continuously adjustable alarm threshold and sound alarm.
- Easy to use with a 4.3-inch graphic touchscreen.
Conclusion
Investing in Explosive Trace Detectors is a strategic decision that goes beyond mere cost considerations; it is about ensuring safety, efficiency, and long-term value. Whether opting for affordable desktop models or cutting-edge next-generation devices, understanding the price spectrum helps organizations align their security needs with their budget. As technology continues to improve, future advancements promise more accessible, cost-effective solutions, making high-level security achievable for a broader range of industries.
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References
- Safeway Systems – Desktop Explosive and Narcotics Detector
- Link Springer – Next Generation Trace Explosives Detection Systems