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Thermal cameras ‘offer new functions for entry-level class’
Published:  01 October, 2013

Flir has announced of series of entry-level thermal imaging cameras which, it claims, exceed the capabilities of rival products in many ways, and offer functions not seen previously in this class of camera. The true thermal imaging cameras do not simply take spot temperature measurements or use blended techniques.

A patented technology provides high image quality in real time, resulting in sharp images, quick target orientation and clean reports. This technology, called MSX, was previously available only on Flir’s T-Series and above, but it is now included on all four cameras in the new Ex-Series.

The cameras can see temperature differences as small as 0.06ºC and can be used to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical faults using thermal measurements. They provide resolutions from 80 x 60 pixels up to 320 x 240 pixels, allowing entire areas to be scanned in one pass.

The cameras, which are designed for newcomers to thermal imaging, have fixed focus-free lenses, avoiding the need for adjustment. Users simply point and shoot, and the temperature data, up to +250ºC, is embedded automatically in the JPEG images. Free software allows the thermal images and associated data to be exported to a PC for basic reporting and analysis.

Flir's Ex-series thermal imaging cameras are claimed to introduce new functions for entry-level devices

A built-in visual camera makes target association and inspection easy. Multi spectral image storage means that MSX can be applied to stored visual and thermal JPEG images after inspection. Analysis tools provided include a spotmeter, an area min/max function and a colour alarm. And all but one of the new models also include a picture-in-picture function.

The cameras, which weigh 575 grams, can be carried on a tool belt.