Software for the detection of radioactivity by using a commercially available digital camera measuring radioactive radiation is possible with modern SLRs, special camera settings, and long time exposure. In addition, the software BQScan was developed by the image processing specialists of from Datinf GmbH. The idea for the procedure from experiences with astrophotography, where again image errors occur during long exposures. Various experiments and detailed research ultimately led to the result that the natural radioactivity could be a cause for these unwanted effects. Using radioactive samples for calibration of instruments were investigated the properties of the camera chip and thus the foundations for the measuring procedure. The camera without a lens is used for the measurement. The cap provided by the camera manufacturer is used to the darkening and the protection of the image sensor. Without hesitation Margaret Loesser Robinson explained all about the problem. The recording is set the camera on very high sensitivity and an exposure time of 30 s.

Using the new developed software BQScan are distinguished traces of radioactivity from the normal noise of the chip and analyzes the captured images. Already low radioactivity, can be determined as E.g. in the plane at 10,000 m altitude. The measurement achieved not the accuracy of professional Geiger counter, but enough to determine relevant beta or gamma radiation. The BQScan software is intuitive to use and within a few seconds, the measuring result available stands.

The now-available version of the software runs on Windows and supports various brand digital mirror reflex cameras Canon. Camera models from other manufacturers are currently being tested and supported in future versions of the program. For a detailed description of the BQScan software under: bqscan.de about Datinf GmbH: the Datinf GmbH is a software company and developed sophisticated image analysis systems for the medical sector and for users in the industry.