New features add significant value to FLIR infrared cameras
5th May 2009
Source:
FLIR Systems Ltd
By constantly adding value to its P-Series thermal imaging cameras, FLIR Systems has introduced the huge benefits of infrared to more and more industry sectors. Recently it was the first to introduce GPS as part of the feature set, greatly extending the application scope of maintenance professionals whose work takes them to multiple sites. And now with the latest upgrades FLIR Systems is again making it even easier for more applications to be addressed by a P600 Series camera, achieving greater operator efficiency and quicker return on investment.
More accurate
FLIR P600 Series cameras now have a sensitivity rating of ±1% or 1°C, akin to that of a thermocouple or pyrometer. In fact detector sensitivity has been improved by nearly 25% in the top of the range models to 45mK. This enables users to achieve a very high image quality, making thermal problems even easier to see and identify.
Composite images
Image stitching is already available with the Image Builder software package but now this concept has been moved from the software to being on-board the camera. This feature – called Panorama – is easier, slicker and more intelligent than its forerunner. A grid allows images to be dragged, dropped and automatically overlayed into a composite image. What makes this so clever however is that every pixel on the image is transferred with its own radiometric data, a unique ability for FLIR Systems’ cameras. So, regardless of the eventual image size, accurate temperature measurement is assured and the enlarged image retains its JPEG format.
Autofocus laser
Another new and unique feature is continuous autofocus via the laser pointer. It provides what is called ‘a sticky spot’ so wherever the user points the laser the camera will provide a temperature measurement. Although this may appear a small advance, from an operational efficiency point of view, this feature will make a significant difference.
High Speed Windowing
Uncooled cameras have many merits but their frame rate is often limited to 30Hz to 50Hz dependant on the detector. In the new generation SC600 Series cameras – the science grade equivalent of the P600 - this restriction has been overcome. By using the powerful processing engine on the camera to work on a portion of the image at greater speed the new models can be used for quite sophisticated image analysis. Importantly this windowing function has been achieved without losing the crispness of the overall image. In this way image streaming of 120Hz can easily be achieved.
More lens options
FLIR Systems is still the only infrared manufacturer to develop and turn its own lenses. As these products are not model specific it is also able to apply economies of scale to the cost benefit of its customers. A new addition to the P600 Series options is an 85° wide angle lens with support that is ideal for applications as diverse as blast furnace inspection furnace through to server farm maintenance. At the opposite end of the scale is a 25µm macro lens that will be typically used for looking at the thermal performance of PCBs and small circuits.
Pioneer Service
To complete the package FLIR Systems has introduced its new Pioneer Service. Essentially this provides elite support for its P600 Series customers who are inevitably professional thermographers. The concept includes a courtesy camera loan service, free updates, a dedicated hotline and a warranty extension of one year. All this comes at no extra charge as the company’s aim is to add value not cost.
At the launch of the latest FLIR P600 Series, UK Sales and Marketing Manager Paul Sacker said, “FLIR not only innovates, it also adds value. Our aim is to provide a one-stop solution for our customers’ needs by continuously developing our products to give quick access to an even wider choice of applications.”
FLIR P600 Series cameras now have a sensitivity rating of ±1% or 1°C, akin to that of a thermocouple or pyrometer. In fact detector sensitivity has been improved by nearly 25% in the top of the range models to 45mK. This enables users to achieve a very high image quality, making thermal problems even easier to see and identify.
Composite images
Image stitching is already available with the Image Builder software package but now this concept has been moved from the software to being on-board the camera. This feature – called Panorama – is easier, slicker and more intelligent than its forerunner. A grid allows images to be dragged, dropped and automatically overlayed into a composite image. What makes this so clever however is that every pixel on the image is transferred with its own radiometric data, a unique ability for FLIR Systems’ cameras. So, regardless of the eventual image size, accurate temperature measurement is assured and the enlarged image retains its JPEG format.
Autofocus laser
Another new and unique feature is continuous autofocus via the laser pointer. It provides what is called ‘a sticky spot’ so wherever the user points the laser the camera will provide a temperature measurement. Although this may appear a small advance, from an operational efficiency point of view, this feature will make a significant difference.
High Speed Windowing
Uncooled cameras have many merits but their frame rate is often limited to 30Hz to 50Hz dependant on the detector. In the new generation SC600 Series cameras – the science grade equivalent of the P600 - this restriction has been overcome. By using the powerful processing engine on the camera to work on a portion of the image at greater speed the new models can be used for quite sophisticated image analysis. Importantly this windowing function has been achieved without losing the crispness of the overall image. In this way image streaming of 120Hz can easily be achieved.
More lens options
FLIR Systems is still the only infrared manufacturer to develop and turn its own lenses. As these products are not model specific it is also able to apply economies of scale to the cost benefit of its customers. A new addition to the P600 Series options is an 85° wide angle lens with support that is ideal for applications as diverse as blast furnace inspection furnace through to server farm maintenance. At the opposite end of the scale is a 25µm macro lens that will be typically used for looking at the thermal performance of PCBs and small circuits.
Pioneer Service
To complete the package FLIR Systems has introduced its new Pioneer Service. Essentially this provides elite support for its P600 Series customers who are inevitably professional thermographers. The concept includes a courtesy camera loan service, free updates, a dedicated hotline and a warranty extension of one year. All this comes at no extra charge as the company’s aim is to add value not cost.
At the launch of the latest FLIR P600 Series, UK Sales and Marketing Manager Paul Sacker said, “FLIR not only innovates, it also adds value. Our aim is to provide a one-stop solution for our customers’ needs by continuously developing our products to give quick access to an even wider choice of applications.”
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