Rio, - American tourists who arrived at the Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro yesterday afternoon went through a new, modern identification system. The digital laser machines take pictures and fingerprints in less than a minute without leaving ink stains on anyone's fingers. A camera and scanner are connected to a computer which stores the information.

The equipment was purchased by the police last year and was to be used to identify criminals.

Americans arriving took a total of around three minutes to get through the new process. Most of them saying it was quick and efficient. The tourists continue to receive a "welcome kit," which consists of a brooch, a T-shirt (which says "Rio Loves You), and flowers.