US Patent 10121294 Rapid document detection and identification

An apparatus, method, and computer program product that intentionally illuminate at least one target item with electromagnetic energy having specific characteristics (e.g., frequency, power, waveform, directionality, duration, etc.). The target item, which may be an unpowered data storage device or secure document, acts as a non-linear mixer and is forced to emit radiative signals containing information about the target item's state and physical characteristics. Embodiments receive the forced emissions, extract useful data, and analyze the data to determine target item characteristics (e.g., a target item type, based on a comparison of data from known types). Embodiments control the illumination so the forced emissions radiate from an enclosure without interfering with tactical communications, and so that stored target item data is not affected. Embodiments can locate a hidden target item via the strength and directionality of the forced emissions. The apparatus is portable for use by military, intelligence, and security personnel.