Remote Sensing Devices

Remote Sensing Devices (RSDs) are specially designed emissions analyzers that are placed roadside to measure vehicle emissions using low-intensity infrared and ultraviolet light beams as motorists drive by.

RSD Data Applications.

Remote Sensing Devices efficiently measure in-use vehicle emissions providing a large dataset that can be used for a number of “value-add” benefits for motorists and jurisdictions responsible for emissions testing programs.

• • The vehicle first passes through (3) speed and acceleration detectors, while an (5) image of the license plate is taken to ensure the vehicle tag matches the registration record.


• • The vehicle then passes through safe, low intensity infrared and ultraviolet beams of the (2) emissions analyzer. A safe laser light source directs the beams across the road, where they are bounced off (1) mirrors and directed back to a detector module.


• • As the light beams are broken by the vehicle’s exhaust plume, the detector module measures the levels of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen and particulate matter in the exhaust. (4) The emissions readings are matched to the license plate and an official test record is created and compiled for RSD Data Applications.



• To ensure accurate, uncontaminated readings, RSD’s do not operate during rain, snow, high winds or other adverse weather conditions.