A compact, lightweight portable FTIR built as a “grab and go” platform for rapidly assessing chemical threats. Put a powder or liquid on the diamond ATR sample interface and get clear, visible results in seconds, searched against 23,000+ solids and liquids: hazardous chemicals, narcotics including fentanyls, and explosives. When the sample is a mixture, the automated search breaks it down into up to five components.
ProtectIR is built for simple operation. Here is what happens between the spatula and the result.

Solids and liquids both go straight onto the sample interface on top of the instrument.
The instrument measures the sample by FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) over the range below.
The search runs through a structured series of analytical layers, refining potential identifications by evaluating spectral similarity, uniqueness and overall consistency. Each layer enhances and validates the precision of the results, filtering out false positives.
For a mixture, the screen gives a detailed breakdown with confidence ratings from 2 to 5 stars for each identified component, so the operator can see how strongly each one is identified.
908 Devices notes that other methods should always be used for confirmation in accordance with standard operating procedures.
24/7/365 Reachback is listed among the instrument’s features, and the standard warranty includes support with Reachback data analysis.
908 Devices calls the ProtectIR search its Condensed Phase Mixture Analysis: a layered algorithm that gives a detailed breakdown of complex samples.
“Designed to provide the highest probability of detection for mixed samples, the algorithm operates through a structured series of analytical layers, progressively refining potential identifications by evaluating spectral similarity, uniqueness, and overall consistency.”
908 Devices
Each identified component in a mixture carries its own confidence rating from 2 to 5 stars, giving a more precise interpretation of the result and showing the reliability of each identification.
Confidently identify thousands of chemical threats anywhere. ProtectIR identifies three families of threats, with library categories, alarms and an on-board database listed below.
Narcotics, including fentanyls.
Explosives are both a library category and one of the instrument’s alarms.
Threat Assist; integrated chemical information database.
23,000+ Powders and Liquids.
Designed for use in harsh environments (durability: IP67, MIL-STD-810H) and cleaned by spray, wipe-down or dunk with bleach or detergent.

Durability: IP67, MIL-STD-810H.
Spray, wipe-down or dunk with bleach or detergent.
5 lbs (2.27 kgs). 12.5 x 7.75 x 4.75 in (31.8 x 19.7 x 12.1 cm), includes integrated carry handle.
Rechargeable Li-ion battery, 4 hour run time. Line power transformer, 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz.
4.3 in (10.9 cm); 480 x 272 pixels.
Built-in wireless communications
USB 2.0
WiFi (802.11 G)
Team Leader app available on iOS, Android, Windows, or via web
| Measurement | |
|---|---|
| Technology | FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) |
| Sample type | Solids, Liquids |
| Sample interface | Diamond ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance) |
| Frequency range | 4000–650 cm-1 |
| Resolution | 4 cm-1 |
| Identification | |
| Search technique | Automated mixture analysis, up to five (5) components |
| Alarms | Protein, Explosive, CWA, Water (as an interferent) |
| Libraries | 23,000+ Powders and Liquids. TICs, Narcotics, CWA, Explosives, Consumer Products, Chemicals |
| Database | Threat Assist; integrated chemical information database |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Size | 12.5 x 7.75 x 4.75 in (31.8 x 19.7 x 12.1 cm), includes integrated carry handle |
| Weight | 5 lbs (2.27 kgs) |
| Display | 4.3 in (10.9 cm); 480 x 272 pixels |
| Field use | |
| Durability | IP67, MIL-STD-810H |
| Decon | Spray, wipe-down or dunk with bleach or detergent |
| Power | |
| Power |
|
| Connectivity | |
|---|---|
| Connections |
|
| Remote data access | Team Leader app available on iOS, Android, Windows, or via web |
| Support | |
| Warranty | Standard one (1) year Warranty and 24/7/365 Support including Reachback data analysis. |
ProtectIR is subject to export controls including those of the Export Administration Regulations of the U.S. Department of Commerce, which may restrict or require licenses for the export of product from the United States and their reexport to and from other countries.
Features, identification capabilities and full specifications. 2 pages.
Download Data review · PDFEnhanced Accuracy & Reliability with the New ProtectIR Search. 1 page.
Download ServiceOEM-certified service and support on every product we deliver. When a repair or calibration falls outside our in-house scope, we coordinate directly with the third-party manufacturer and manage the logistics end to end.
Learn moreFarrWest is a pre-approved vendor on BuyBoard and Purchasing Cooperative of America (PCA). Government agencies can buy on competitively-bid cooperative contracts, with no lengthy RFP.
How co-op buying worksServiceOEM-certified service and support on every product we deliver: functional checks and certified calibration on the manufacturer’s required cycle, back in service in 48–72 hours typical.
Repair DepotSince 2004Serving Hazmat, Fire, Police, EMS, and Specialty Vehicle operations nationwide since 2004, with expert support, training, and service after the sale.
About FarrWest908 Devices XplorIR is a handheld FTIR gas analyzer that identifies over 5,600 gases and vapors in under 30 seconds, up to…
View productRelated908 Devices ThreatID is a portable FTIR system that identifies solids, liquids and gas/vapors against 23,000+ solid/liquid and 5,600+ gas library entries.
View productRelated908 Devices VipIR runs FTIR and Raman on the same sample in one handheld, with Smart Spectral Processing and a 39,000+ spectra…
View productTell us about your team and the threats you expect to sample. We’ll follow up with a quote and answers to your questions.