Thermal imaging cameras let security patrols see clearly in total darkness, saya a manufacturer launching a new series of cameras. The cameras give security users the information needed to make decisions, and improve safety.
The FLIR LS-Series come with an uncooled, microbolometer detector. It delivers thermal images in any day or night situation. The LS64 produces thermal images of 640 x 480 pixels. Users that do not need this high resolution can choose the LS32 which produces images of 320 x 240 pixels. All cameras have internal camera software that delivers a crisp image without the need for user adjustments it is claimed.
The LS32 comes with a 2x digital zoom, while the FLIR LS64 has a 2x, 4x digital zoom and continuous electronic zoom.
The LS64 comes with a 35 mm lens. It allows detecting human targets at a distance of 1080m. The LS32 has a 19 mm lens that allows detecting a human target at a distance of 640 m.
Portable
The FLIR LS-Series comes with rechargeable Li-Ion batteries offering a typical operating time of five to seven hours on a single load. Weighing 340 grams, batteries included, the FLIR LS-Series are described as compact and light. They are IP67 rated and operate between minus 20 degrees C and 50 degrees C. These thermal imaging cameras are fully controlled with the buttons on top of the unit. The buttons are all underneath the user’s fingertips. Both versions of the LS-Series come with an integrated laser to pinpoint suspects in the dark. An InstAlert feature colours the hottest part of the scene in red, so as to spot suspects in the thermal image.
Image intensification, also referred to as I2 technology, amplifies small amounts of visible light thousands of times so that objects can be seen at night. Image intensification does require a certain level of ambient light, but even starlight can produce an image on a cloudless night. Because the system requires at least a minimum level of ambient light, conditions such as heavy overcast can limit its effectiveness. Similarly, too much light may overwhelm the system and reduce its effectiveness. Thermal imaging cameras like the FLIR LS-Series offer it is claimed benefits over image intensification. They work by detecting the heat energy being radiated and need no light at all to produce a clear image in the darkest environments. Thermal imaging cameras are not affected by the amount of light so that you will not be blinded when looking at a light source.
About thermal imaging
Thermal imaging is the use of cameras constructed with sensors that “see” thermal energy emitted from an object. Thermal, or infrared energy, is light that is not visible to the human eye because its wavelength is too long to be detected. It’s the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes cannot.
Thermal imaging cameras produce images of invisible infrared or “heat” radiation. Based on temperature differences between objects, thermal imaging produces a clear image. In contrast with other technologies, such as light amplification, thermal imaging needs no light whatsoever to produce an image on which the smallest of details can be seen. Thermal imaging provides full visibility irrespective of the prevailing light level and weather conditions.
It can see in total darkness, in the darkest of nights, through fog, in the far distance, through smoke and are able to detect anyone hiding in the shadows. It is used for security and surveillance, maritime, automotive, fire fighting among other applications.
