Infrared or Thermal Camera: Principles and Use

The infrared camera is a monitoring device that detects temperature movements, also known as thermal vision. This type of product works both indoors and outdoors, day or night, providing a high-resolution image or video. All about the infrared camera.

Presentation

The night vision camera can film the day or night context. It can film and send the images to a recorder through an analog signal (analog type) or view via the Internet (Internet Protocol, IP). The device records at night using remote-controlled or variable-range infrared LEDs that activate when outside lighting is not sufficient.

There are two types of models: the first one has a watertight housing that is weatherproof and the second is a very robust miniaturized dome. Its cost evolves according to the importance of the range, the most successful models can reach 1000 euros.

Difference between the infrared and thermal camera

Do not confuse infrared cameras and thermal cameras that do not have the same scope.

Both devices operate on the same principle: the recording of infrared radiation emitted by bodies and objects. However, a night vision camera is sensitive to waves emitted with lengths of the order of a micron (10-6), while a thermal camera is sensitive for lengths of the order of ten microns (10-5). ).

The 10-5 waves sometimes called heat waves, are directly related to the temperature of the body or the object that releases them. The thermal imaging camera measures heat emissions and can detect temperature failures in an electrical installation, insulation faults, thermal leaks on a building, and the presence of individuals or the source of a fire in buildings. normally imperceptible conditions

The infrared camera, used in the dark and accompanied by additional lighting, views nocturnal scenes intended in particular for television. Contrary to popular belief, this camera and its sensors, does not allow to see behind a wall or an obstacle. It simply reproduces the temperature of a body or the heat flow of a wall near a fireplace.

Advantages

The camera consumes less electricity than a conventional surveillance camera that requires a powerful halogen to film at night. It is used for safety, inspection and industrial maintenance, as well as for builders, architects, and experts. This equipment also helps researchers determine the thermal characteristics of products and components.

The latest innovations in the system, including sensor technology, incorporating integrated visual imaging, automatic features, and infrared software development, provide cost-effective thermal analysis solutions.