Product category:
Stand-Alone Instruments
News Release from: Flir Systems | Subject: ThermoVision A20
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 28 June 2005
IR cameras offer cost-effective thermal
analysis
A new range of infra-red cameras brings the benefits of thermography to a much wider R and D community, making it cost- and time-effective for electronics prototyping.
Establishing the thermal performance of new components and circuitry is a crucial element in the design phase of any new product But until now, the cost and complexity of thermography has proved prohibitive to many OEMs
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 8 Nov 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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With the introduction of its new ThermoVision A20 infra-red camera however, Flir Systems has brought the benefits of thermography to a much wider R and D community making it an exceptionally cost- and time-effective technique.
The ThermoVision A20-series offers an affordable solution for fixed mounted infra-red measurement and imaging applications for R and D and process control applications.
Packaged in a compact unit weighing less than 800g, the ThermoVision A20 is rugged, shock-resistant and suitable for discrete mounting on an automated production line or test bench.
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The size of this infra-red camera makes it ideal for applications where space is at a premium.
These attributes are complemented by an unprecedented choice of connectivity options.
Two models complete the series.
The ThermoVision A20-M is for applications requiring highly accurate, noncontact temperature measurement; the ThermoVision A20-V is designed for imaging applications where temperature measurement is not required.
Both are operate within the temperature range from -20 to +900C.
They differ in that whereas the V model "sees" changes as small as 0.12C, the M version allows the user to measure those differences.
They both produce crisp high quality infra-red images of 160 x 120 pixel at video rates of 50Hz.
This enables fast-moving and low temperature targets to be viewed with an exceptional image clarity, unmatched by less sensitive cameras.
Fully configured and straightforward input/output functionality allows the ThermoVision A20 infra-red cameras to be integrated quickly and easily into any control system or set up as a stand-alone configuration.
The operator can fully programme and define alarms.
For example, if the temperature within one area in the field of view rises above or falls below a predefined value, an alarm will sound.
Both infra-red cameras feature a choice of connectivity options.
For fast image and data transfer of real-time, fully radiometric 16bit images at 50Hz frame rate, the user can choose an IEEE1394 FireWire digital output.
For network and/or multiple camera installations, Ethernet connectivity is available.
Each ThermoVision A20 can be equipped with its own unique URL allowing it to be addressed independently via its Ethernet connection.
This allows for the control of all menu functions of the camera and provides instant access to A20 thermal images for any authorised user with a web browser.
Images are streamed in "semi-real time".
High-quality thermal images can also be viewed on a PC or monitor.
The camera can be fully controlled either from the PC or with the integrated keyboard.
Conveniently sited at the top of the camera, the keyboard is ideal for situations where the infra-red camera and PC are remote from one another or during the setup and initialisation of the system; just a few buttons control all camera features.
The A20's output can be used to control any application eliminating the need for complex and time-consuming programming.
Multiple options exist to reduce dramatically, the time taken to program a custom solution.
A software developers kit (SDK) for Visual Basic and C++ programming is optional.
Flir Systems also offers both analogue and digital LabView Toolkits that utilise ActiveX technology.
Feedback from existing users of infra-red thermography indicated a strong need for an affordable and user-friendly system that promises minimal downtime.
Flir Systems reckons that its specifically developed A-Series will not only meet this need but also rapidly extend the market for fixed mounted infra-red camera systems. Request a free brochure from Flir Systems ...
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