Frasers Thermal Camera Collection - The list !

[Fraser]

As some readers are already aware, I used to use thermography professionally and now collect and repair the technology in my retirement.
Over many years I have collected and repaired all manner of thermal imaging equipment. I love the technology and what it can achieve. it is a rare event that I sell any of my cameras so I now have quite a collection of different models. I own several examples of many of the models as I either bought a bulk lot or have a particular liking for the model, so like to have more than one. For example, I own four PM695 cameras.

I have been asked in the past if I will list the cameras that I own in order to assist others who may need my help with their own camera, its operation or repair. I am an experienced component level repair tech so working on this technology does not phase me at all. One of my early thermal camera purchases was a FLIR PM570, as new in its case and it looked unused. It had a boot fault that proved very tricky to track down. I ended up completely reverse engineering the PCB's in the camera over a period of 3 months. My evenings were occupied studying the PCB's under magnification and continuity testing using various equipment. At the time I did not have a high resolution X-Ray machine so I could not use that to help trace buried tracks within the multi layer PCB's. It was a hard task but a labour of love. As far as I know, I am the only person outside FLIR's design team with the full schematics of the PM570. Even their repair agents do not have full schematics as board changing is the repair protocol. Fortunately FLIR used the basic camera design for all the cameras that followed the PM570 in the series. I can therefore find my way around the later models with relative ease. I love the PM series series camera and so have many of them and multiple examples of each model.

I also took advantage of the brief availability of some superb NEC AVIO thermal cameras that were sold by the UK Agents liquidator when they folded. For such nice cameras, they were sold at prices I could not resist. Quite a rare make to find in the UK and they use Boeing microbolometers.

The ISG Talisman cameras were being sold off as scrap by a fire brigade recycling company and were so cheap that I bought several !

The EEV ARGUS cameras were also some of my early purchases. Again, these were ex Fire Brigade and so in varying condition. Some of mine are almost as new and others are 'well used'. These use either a Pyro-Electric Vidicon tube (Argus 1) or a very nice Raytheon BST core (Argus 2). I have a soft spot for these well made cameras so own several examples. I recently re-homed my two P4428 cameras and a P4430 as they were needed for a museum project.

I am listing all of the cameras that i have owned and noted which have been re-homed as I may still be able to assist other owners of these cameras. 

I hope this list will be of interest to others and please be assured that it is not a bragging list, just details of my collection that has been requested on several occasions.

Update: three additional cameras that I forgot added to V1.01 list

Fraser

[Fraser]

Recent changes to the collection...

1. I now own two E2V ARGUS 4 firefighter thermal cameras, An ARGUS HR320 and an ARGUS 160. Both are capable of cabled IP and Wi-Fi communications modes 🙂

2. The EEV P4428's have gone to a museum.

3. I have purchased a SATIR MinIR 80 camera for investigation and possible upgrade to the 160 model spec.

4. My two Bosch MIC412 dual tech cameras have gone to a new home

5. I received a DRS Ultra 6000 Pan Tilt dome camera in exchange for the MIC412's. The Ultra 6000 is a 640x480 IP security camera.

6. I have purchased an Agema Thermovision 510 Peltier cooled Shortwave camera. It is a single Axis scanner unit with 160 pixel PbSe linear cooled array resolution is 320x160. Very sensitive for long range work such as security etc. Lens FOV is 18 Degrees with telescope mounting option.

7. Snoop IR kit added to collection. A camera kit designed for law enforcement. It contains an Indigo/FLIR Omega/A10 160x120 VOx camera in a 'bullet cam' head. The output is displayed and recorded on an Archos AV700 DVR.

Fraser

[Fraser]

And another update !

I have just bought back one of the Bosch MIC412 cameras, so once again I have one of those in my collection 🙂

I could not see it sell for a song, so I bid on it. It has travelled from Milton Keynes to Falmouth and will now be making the return journey 😄

The seller is a friend so he is likely laughing about all this. For some reason these amazing and expensive MIC cameras do not sell for what they are truly worth. I think the market wants hand held cameras more than fixed Pan Tilt units as used for Secuirty etc. A new MIC will cost you £15K even in today's lower cost market. They are built like tanks and use superb components within them. Also fully submersible with waterproof gasket seals throughout.


Fraser

[Fraser]

And another new acquisition.....

FLIR i5 Original Blue/Grey type added to collection.

This camera will be upgraded to the full 120 x 120 resolution, plus added menus of the i7. It may be the subject of further experimentation as well.

Fraser

[Fraser]

IRISYS IRI4035 Extended temperature range camera added to the collection.

Fraser

[Fraser]

AVON ARGUS Mi-Tic 320 added to the collection.

A superb compact 320 x 240 pixel 30fps fire fighting, SAR and surveillance camera 

http://www.santiam.net/argus-mi-tic.html

Fraser

[Fraser]

Another fire fighting camera added to the collection. This time an........

Avon ISI nVISION XT 160 x 120 pixel 30fps A-Si microbolometer compact fire fighting camera. AKA ISI 3500 camera.

Believed to contain the Raytheon/L3 3500AS A-Si core.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Crazy Purchase time.......

I have just added 53 IRISYS thermal people counting cameras to my collection. That's right......53 of them !

I believe I will be taking delivery of 50 IRC1004/1014 camera sensors and 3 of the latest higher resolution Gazelle Sensors, along with 3 of the computers that collect data from them all.

These are a form of low resolution thermal camera. They use a Germanium lens to focus the thermal scene onto the IRISYS manufactured 16x16 pixel pyroelectric detector FPA. This is the same array as used in the IRC1001' 1002 and 1011 thermal cameras. The camera can detect the presence, location and movement of people. The intelligence gathered is used for till line management and retail related customer profiling. They make great intruder sensors as well. Each sensor may be individually programmed with boundariy lines that trigger a count event or alarm. Kind of an invisible 'barrier' that the targets cross to cause an event. Several barriers may be set up and the sensors individually track multiple targets within their FOV before handing off to the next monitoring sensor, if appropriate. Clever stuff as the front end processing takes place in a compact unit the size of a smoke detector. Programming is via a plug in RS232 interface and some software that IRISYS sent me some time ago. The software permits viewing of the live thermal scene

The Gazelle sensor is a slightly higher resolution. I suspect it uses either a Redeye 6A 31x31 pixel array, or the later 47x47 pixel array.

Now to decide what to do with them all. That is a lot of dinky little Germanium lenses and thermal detector FPA's.

I just happen to own 50 Dewalt (IRISYS) visual thermometers (similar to Fluke VT02). They are without their detector array and lens. Hmmm a possible transplant project maybe ? We shall see

Fraser

[sam1275]

That's amazing...
Could you tell us why you bought so many same model TICs at once?
I think maybe you can make them to an array and make a higher resolution TIC?

[Fraser]

They were a bulk lot on eBay.

The price was right and no one bid against me

The sensor heads usually retail at £700 each ! I paid somewhat less for them

[Chanc3]

I almost bid against you on this! But then I had the rational thought "what would I do with all of the cameras..."


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Fraser]

New additions to the collection.....

E2V ARGUS 3 fire fighters camera

FLIR M324L maritime surveillance camera with Remote control.

Keysight (Agilent) U5855A handheld Camera. (OEM is NEC AVIO)

Fraser

[Chanc3]

FLIR M324L maritime surveillance camera with Remote control.

Nice! Where did you get that one from? Expensive?

[Fraser]

Chanc3

A fellow forum member did a deal with me for it.

Depends what you call expensive. It was a mere fraction of its new price. The deal was part thermal camera hardware and part cash for the M324L. We were both happy with the deal as we got what each of us needed

I have wanted a 324L for ages as I like its design and the full remote control via the joystick control unit or a PC using Ethernet and a web server in the camera.

Fraser

[Fraser]

FLIR E40 MK1 v2 model added to the daily use camera inventory. It will be upgraded to E60 spec soon.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Today's additions after the visit to Dunstable Radio Rally.....

Another Ex Military long range thermal camera
A FLIR Autoliv Audi thermal camera system inc controller
Fire FLIR FF110 head mounted thermal camera

Not bad for a days 'shopping' me thinks

Fraser

[Chanc3]

Today's additions after the visit to Dunstable Radio Rally.....

Another Ex Military long range thermal camera
A FLIR Autoliv Audi thermal camera system inc controller
FIre FLIR head mounted thermal camera

Not bad for a days 'shopping' me thinks

Fraser

That's a fantastic haul! Didn't think you'd be able to find those sorts of cameras at an event like that.

[Fraser]

They all came from Mike

Fraser

[Fraser]

+

Amber (Raytheon) Radiance 1 (256 x 256 Stirling cooled InSb FPA)

Ideal (IRISYS) 61-848 HeatSeeker 320 (320 x 240 A-Si FPA)

[LaserSteve]

Could you check how the IRSYS people counters are built  compared to my friend's design:

http://electrooptical.net/www/footprints/fpphotos.html
http://electrooptical.net/www/footprints/fpspie11.pdf
http://electrooptical.net/www/footprints/fpwaropn.pdf

I'm curious how they do the multiplexing.

Steve

[Fraser]

Sensor array contains a ROIC that does the pixel bias and reading matrix.

Communications between the slave sensor heads, the master sensor head and the computer is via CAN BUS or ethernet, depending upon model. One version has two relay outputs only. Configuration is via RS232 direct into sensor head. No idea about any other "multiplexing".

Fraser

[Fraser]

+

FLIR A40

FLIR i7

[nidlaX]

+

FLIR A40

FLIR i7

Nice! What's the resolution of the A40?
(Ah, looks like it's 320, nice score!)

[Fraser]

FLIR A40 uses a 320 x 240 VOx microbolometer.

The camera has an integrated 24 Degree FOV lens and motorised manual and autofocus. It is a very neat camera with physical temperature alarm outputs, external thermal sensors and all manner of clever functions. That combined with Composite output, Firewire and RS232 comms made it of great interest to me.

Fraser

[Fraser]

+

SPi RazIR 160 x 120 pixel/60fps mini TIC.

[Fraser]

Scott Eagle X Firefighter cameras added to the collection.

160 x 120 pixel VOx microbolometer used in the imaging core.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Jenoptik IR-TCM 384 cameras added to collection.

A 384 x 288 Pixel A-Si microbolometer is used in the imaging core.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Bullard T3 Max Plus fire fighters camera

320 x 240 pixels, 30fps using an A-Si microbolometer

Fraser

[Bill W]

Hi Fraser,

So is that a Raytheon 4000 / 4500 ASi core in the T3 MAX then ?

Some sources say the T3MAX was a 160x120 (ie Raytheon AS3500)
https://eu.bullard.com/uploads/bullard_downloads/TI_T3MAX_BIDSPECS_GMBH_EN_LOW_8402.pdf

and then there was the T320 model for higher resolution.

The original T3 was a Raytheon AS2000


Bill

[Fraser]

Hi Bill,

Not sure what core is in the unit, I only bought it today 

The T3 comes in MAX and MAX+ versions. The 'Max' is 160 x 120 pixels and the 'Max+' is a 320 x 240 pixel spec.

Datasheet attached

Fraser

[Chanc3]

Hi Bill,

Not sure what core is in the unit, I only bought it today 

The T3 comes in MAX and MAX+ versions. The 'Max' is 160 x 120 pixels and the 'Max+' is a 320 x 240 pixel spec.

Datasheet attached

Fraser

I had a sneaky feeling that was you! I didn't put a bid in just in case - might be worth me dropping you a PM before I bid on any rarer cameras on there!

[LesioQ]

A new medical case - Flirophilia 

[Fraser]

A rather poorly, but good condition FLIR S40 has been added to the collection thanks to a fellow forum member.

The Agema Thermovision THV880 complete system has gone to a new home as a 'Display piece'. It is an excellent example of 1980's 'cutting edge' thermography technology that demonstrates how far thermal imaging has come in a relatively short period of time. She just sat in her huge carry case here so time she saw some use with someone else.

I will look into the S40  fault but it looks serious, so she may not be repairable.

Fraser

[Fraser]

FLIR ETS320 PCB inspection system.

Resolution : 320 x 240 pixels @ 9fps and with an FL of only 70mm +-10mm.
Spot size at 60mm FL = 170um
Fixed focus !


The ETS320 is basically a FLIR E8 minus MSX but in a format suited to PCB inspection.

I will 3D print a focus adjusting ring to provide variable, rather than fixed focus distance, and will likely upgrade its functionality.

I may create a true thermal microscope lens assembly for this camera to image really small targets 

A niche, and so relatively rare, product. I will increase its versatility however 

Fraser

[Bill W]

re ETS 320

FLIR need to sort out the marketing department:
http://www.flir.com/ETS320/

Like a thermal camera will detect 49.6°C on a crystal in a shiny metal can, or even what fault might get a crystal to that temperature anyway.

Does not do much for product credibility, when in fact a thermal camera is a great tool for fault finding (of non-shiny things  )

Bill

[Fraser]

Bill,

I saw that too 😄 Classic marketing department error but you would have thought it would be caught before release. The ETS is an interesting beast. I will expand on that fact below.....

1. The ETS head is attached to what can generously be described as a budget Chinese Microscope stand. This thing costs £2000 !

2. It is of note that the manual details how to remove the head from the cheap stand and rack..... to fit it on a better stand maybe ? Why else would they detail such ?

3. The ETS320 contains a virtually unmodified E8 camera chassis. Just a mount for the Lithium battery fitted where the LCD display normally sits. Even the USB socket remains in its original position. A short patch cable is used to relocate the micro USB port to the rear of the head.

3. The standard Ex series lens assembly is used. A custom lens assembly for the ETS would have made it far more versatile. Why no focus control ? I can make such with my 3D printer so why did FLIR not have a focus ring adapter fitted for manual distance focus ?

4. The head is fixed in a down position so, unlike video presenters, it cannot rotate its head to look horizontally. A nice option in some cases and it would have made the unit capable of being a standard desk mounted thermal camera if the focus was adjustable.

5. FLIR could have provided different lens options, including a true microscope lens option rather than a wide angle Ex series lens.


I think I can answered most of the above ..... the ETS320 appears to be someone's 'bright idea'. Take an E8 chassis and bolt it on to a cheap microscope stand, reposition the LCD and voila, a thermal PCB inspection unit using standard FLIR production parts plus a case moulding. Nice and cheap to produce. It could almost have come from someone's hobby workshop ! It fits the stated purpose, but only just, and versatility has been lost through lack of proper product development. It looks like a fast track 'quick win' solution to fill a gap in the market.

The good news is that they chose to use the full 320 x 240 resolution so no hacking required (I may well hack mine though ) They also made it relatively easy for me to attach it to a better microscope stand and to make the lens focus adjustable. I am also hoping to achieve true thermal microscope capability with an auxiliary lens. I can then study insects and tiny electronic components with it

The ETS320 is normally shipped with FLIR Tools+ but I suspect that has gone walkies from my unit. I already have a FLIR Tools+ licence and FLIR ResearchIR so no worries on that front 

It will be an interesting little project to work on. It is a specialist product but I think I can make it far more versatile with some minor modifications. My 3D printer could prove very useful for making custom parts and adapters etc.

Fraser

[Fraser]

I have already found an interesting focus tool for the ETS on Thingiverse. I printed a prototype to see how well it will work. It may need some modifications and the final adapter will be printed in black ABS.

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:188896

Fraser

[Fraser]

I just noticed, that brochure link that Bill W referenced states that the FLIR ONE app allows sharing of images and video's on social media 

I wonder if that is a typo ?   

Fraser

[Fraser]

FLIR DUO R added to the collection today. It is the fully radiometric version of the Duo camera.

Intended for drone and similar uses. 1080P HD Visible light camera + 160 x 120 pixel Lepton3 thermal + MSX 

Built in the GoPro Hero case format.

[Chanc3]

FLIR DUO R added to the collection today. It is the fully radiometric version of the Duo camera.

Intended for drone and similar uses. 1080P HD Visible light camera + 160 x 120 pixel Lepton3 thermal + MSX 

Built in the GoPro Hero case format.

Excellent! Was that the "faulty" one on ebay, that was just untested? I really should PM you before bidding on these things...

[Vipitis]

does it push radiometric images but not video?

The live view for the video feed is an interesting one.... and there is thermal UAV photogrammetry being done, fully radiometric: https://www.analistgroup.com/en/new-solutions-with-drones/solar-panel-inspections-uav

[Fraser]

Vipitis,

From the user manual:

5.1.7.3.1 Radiometry File Formats

The different available file formats have different characteristics with regards to recording radiometric data, as follows:

- Video (8-bit H264) – If spot meter is enabled, this format will record the spot meter reading from the center of the screen. This video is not editable for post-processing

- Video (14-bit TIFF Sequence) – This video format will record temperature values for every pixel. It can be processed using many different software tools, such as FLIR Tools, ResearchIR, ImageJ, MATLAB, and others.

o To convert the pixel values to degrees Celsius, multiply the entire image by 0.01 and then subtract 273.15

- Photo (Radiometric JPEG) – This photo format will record temperature values for every pixel. It can be processed using FLIR Tools and ResearchIR

o A major benefit to this file format is that all radiometry parameters, such as emissivity and subject distance, can be edited in post-processing. This is not true for the TIFF file formats.

- Photo (14-bit TIFF) – This photo format will record temperature values for every pixel.

o To convert pixel values to degrees Celsius, multiply the entire image by 0.01 and then subtract 273.15.


It looks quite versatile 

Fraser

[Fraser]

Chanc3,

Oooops !

It may be a paperweight though, much depends upon what has failed in it 

The seller was local to me so I managed to collect it from them today. They normally sell these cameras, new, at a discounted price of £699. This was a customer return that failed after three power on tests. I had a chat with the seller regarding my skill set and repairing electronics. I am now the sellers official electronics repair tech  It was a good day for me 

Fraser

[David C]

Interesting list indeed.

You have me wondering about the "military long range" Ex camera. Does it have a special optic mount ?

[Fraser]

Cleaning out,

Very much function over form.

Specialist equipment often does not have time and money spent on making it look 'pretty'. The money is invested on the internal design and components. Only when a product is intended for the somewhat 'shallow thinking' consumer market does the external appearance become a real issue. FLIR know this, but they also know that most scientists and industrial users want performance in a package that is 'utility' rather than needing to be pretty. A 'Box' camera is virtually an industrial standard ! It is a camera that sits inside a very boring but practical casing.

I take your point though. Thermal cameras vary greatly in terms of ergonomics and quality, both internal and external. They were very specialist products however so users accepted such without much complaint. The original Box Brownie camera comes to mind. It may not be pretty, but it did the job required of it.

Fraser

[Fraser]

David C

The Military cameras (Ex Military, not FLIR 'Ex' series  ) are specialist units intended for perimeter security and long range observation.

Fraser

[David C]

Do you have more details and pictures ? Do they hook up to a stand alone display thru regular video/use cable ?

[Fraser]

I do, but I am careful what I say about them on a public forum. They produce standard video and are fully autonomous with automatic configuration.

Fraser

[David C]

Thanks. As you pointed out, cosmetics aren't a concern for industrial applications, but ergonomics are still important when it comes to handheld equipment.

Which of your handheld camera do you consider the best in regards to operating and achieving the best possible results for a given application ? I'm sure Flir isn't the only one who spend time refining the ergonomics and intuitive interface of its handheld TIC.

[Fraser]

It should be remembered that FLIR, as we now see it, is a company that bought arguably some of the best thermal imaging camera designers and manufacturers in the World. Using those acquired companies and their knowledgeable staff, they produce some of the best thermal imaging cameras in the Industry. There is a lot of knowledge and specialist expertise within the ranks of FLIR staff. They bought AGEMA (was AGA), Inframetrics and Indego to name just three highly respected companies. They have gone on to buy other companies that fill gaps in their knowledge pool.

There is a very good reason why hand held small firearms remain 'pistol' shaped.... it is an ergonomic format that works for the user. It is no surprise that the 'pistol grip' thermal camera format has been a success. There are many manufacturers using this thermal camera case format. FLIR, NEC AVIO and TESTO to name just three..

The pistol grip format suits handheld use at arms length but not use close to the face. Firefighters often operate their cameras closer to their chests or BA mask. This is why some fire fighters cameras were designed with more of a camcorder format and incorporated large screens with a lens to permit close focus for the user. Even fire fighting cameras have moved more to the pistol grip format now though.

In industry, the pistol grip camera format may, or may not, suit the task at hand. Preventative maintenance would likely be fine, but static mounting to observe a particular thermal scene, less so. For such tasks it is common to find very plain looking 'box' cameras, often without a display or even a keypad. Such cameras are intended for remote use from the user and their format has to be rugged and easily deployable. A small 'box' shape fits this requirement well.

Some thermal cameras are moving to the now common mobile phone format, either as embedded modules in a phone, a add on dongle, or a thermal camera in a phone format. The CAT S60 thermal mobile phone comes to mind, as does the SEEK line, Therm App, Thermal Expert and FLIR One series. The ARGUS Mi-Tic is an example of a dedicated fire fighting camera in a phone type format. I love that little camera ! Pictures of it attached.

Personally, I prefer the pistol grip camera format. It is ergonomic and a joy to use. For static observations I like a nice high quality, Solid camera with decent communications capabilities and associated analysis software. Case design is less important as performance is often the key requirement and I am not having to hold the camera.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Whilst discussing camera case formats..... what do I see coming in terms of new formats ?

Well most readers will have seen the Go-Pro and 'Bullet' shaped helmet cameras that abound these days.
I imagine thermal camera manufacturers will look at this 'action cam' format with a view to producing thermal cameras for users who want to operate such 'hands free'. Goid examples would be the Military, Police and Fire fighters. All need their hands for other tasks yet would benefit from the insight a thermal camera can provide.

The headcam format has already been used for fire fighters. E2V produced a thermal camera mounted inside the fire fighters helmet. Others were attached to the side of the helmet. More modern technology enables miniaturisation of the camera and the EVF. There are already models available to the fire brigades of the world. I suspect models will also become available for consumer use by electricians, building inspectors etc. The units could be controlled by a wireless arm mounted control panel to capture still images, video, or adjust settings. The technology is already available, it just needs a company to put it together in a useable package at an affordable price.

Fraser

[Fraser]

I wouldn't mind one of these......

An Arsenz product containing a FLIR thermal sensor. IIRC, it uses a Lepton 2. Why not a Lepton 3 though ? Pity 

http://www.arsenz.com/thermoglass/thermoglassspec/

[Fraser]

Well it has been quite some time since I added anything to this threads list so a quick update.

I stopped searching for thermal cameras but I still stumbled upon the odd auction that caught my eye. The prices were irresistible !

Another FLIR E40 and a very nice condition FLIR PM695 have come into my care. The E40 needs replacement side door catches and will be upgraded to E60+ spec

These two cameras were too hard to resist as I have a huge soft spot for the FLIR PM series and the E40 is a very nice camera that is easily upgraded

The PM695 is likely the best condition example I now own. It is capable of full auto focus and contains a large high quality microbolometer/optical block. It was the most advanced PM series camera produced and I am very comfortable with the internal electronics design.

Happy days for me. Now to go back to avoiding thermal camera auctions !

Fraser

[Fraser]

I forgot to mention two 'patients' awaiting my attention on the operating table.

One is a FLUKE Ti110 and the other is a 'Monroe' branded ISG Elite that is factory configured for building thermal survey work rather than the more usual Fire fighting role. It is quite an uncommon version of the Elite. The FLUKE has a power rail issue and the ISG Elite fails to boot.

Fraser

[Ultrapurple]

I wouldn't mind one of these......

An Arsenz product containing a FLIR thermal sensor. IIRC, it uses a Lepton 2. Why not a Lepton 3 though ? Pity 

http://www.arsenz.com/thermoglass/thermoglassspec/

Predator vision is real...

Interesting that they chose a low resolution core (size and power reasons?) but I suppose if you're looking through a transparent 'screen' at the real world in front of you, it's essentially a FLIR Fusion view.

I guess that a low res display device also eases some of the other design constraints. Either way, I think it's a harbinger of things to come and I look forward to whatever the future holds.

[Fraser]

A Bullard Eclipse LD compact thermal Fire fighting camera is joining my family 

It looks to be in excellent condition and I just could not resist it. I have wanted one of these for ages. Most are in the USA with no overseas shipping (high frame rate), poor condition or too expensive. I think I got lucky with this unit though. In the UK, great condition and excellent price  it comes with a battery and the charger.

These cameras are interesting as the designer has put thought into how the unit will be used. The case has been shaped to be ergonomic for a heavily gloved hand. It may look a bit 'weird' but for a compact personal thermal imager, I like it. My unit is the LD version, meaning "Large Display". It has the larger 3.5" LCD display.

On the specifications front, the Eclipse LD is decent. It uses either a 160 x 120 or 320 x 240 pixel ASi microbolometer and the stated NETD is 50mK. The frame rate is 30fps. A spot temperature and vertical temperature graph are provided on the display. The unit has some configuration options that may be accessed via a USB link and "myBullard" software (free download).

This is the Bullard camera stables equivalent to the venerable AVON ARGUS MiTIC. I like them both 

Fraser

Word of warning .... the Bullard Eclipse standard model with smaller (2.5" ?) display comes in two resolutions.... 80 x 60 and 160 x 120 pixels. The 80 x 60 pixel version would not be my choice as an example of this camera. I saw several for sale in the USA but the lower resolution was a deal breaker for me.

[Fraser]

The Bullard Eclipse has arrived and it is "fully loaded"   

The unit includes the "Thermal Throttle" and "Scene capture" DVR options. It also included the expensive battery charger/analyzer that enables PC analysis of the battery condition etc. The camera is in really great condition.

Very pleased with this unit 

Fraser

[Ultrapurple]

Excellent news.

That brings the total to how many functioning thermal cameras?

I have only seven or eight so I'm a long way behind you (and not attempting to compete).

[Fraser]

Too many ! 

I have disassembled the Eclipse LD to find out what core is within it and also the pinout for its USB connections as I did not get the PC Communications lead with it.

The core is a really nice compact L3 Nanocore 320
That core provides 320 x 240 pixels at a high frame rate with a NETD or better than 40mK The camera construction is excellent. I am really impressed with its design. I will post pictures of its disassembly in a new thread soon.

Fraser

[Fraser]

The Bullard Eclipse LD has been rehomed so is no longer in the collection.

[Fraser]

The following have been added to the collection

Signaal-USFA FICAM60  Fire Fighting camera. Scanning mirror technology and uncooled sensor array.
My thanks to Roman for rehoming this interesting piece of thermal imaging history with me.

360-Vision Eclipse Thermal CCTV camera - Contains a FLIR TAU2 324 QVGA core and provides composite video output.
Sold "untested" on eBay as a conventional external CCTV camera in housing. I recognised the FLIR TAU2 lens poking out of the front panel 

GEC-Marconi PYRO 2000 thermal scope - Uses the Uncooled GEC-Marconi 100 x 100 pixel PST FPA plus Microscanning chopper wheel to increase Horizontal and Vertical optical resolution. Very "Cool" physical resolution enhancement technology 
My thanks to "Chanc3" for bringing the PYRO 2000 auction to my attention 

Fraser

[Ben321]

Wow! Fraser, you have a LOT of thermal cams. Have you managed to get a thermal camera used for targeting aircraft exhaust, from the nose-cone of a decommissioned heat-seeking anti-aircraft missile yet? I assume when older models of missiles get superseded by newer models of missiles, that the military decommissions the old ones and scraps them for parts, some of which may end up in military surplus equipment sales.

In one episode of Pawn Stars there was somebody who was literally trying to sell one of these to the pawn shop guys.
https://pawnstarsthegame.fandom.com/wiki/Infrared_Heat_Seeker

[Fraser]

Ben321,

I have several very nice fully operational BAE 500 imaging cores that were designed for use in Heat Seekers. Mine did not come from the military though. In the UK you do not see guidance parts from such weapons as they are deliberately destroyed during decommissioning for obvious reasons. The only Heat Seaking weaponry that might be found for sale are dummy display models that are non functional. Even then people are a bit wary of selling them ! Also, be aware that early decommissioned thermal guidance cameras are likely to require cooling. Due to the nature of the deployment, and its short active life expectancy !, this could be something like a Argon gas Cryostat system as found in the early Hughes Probeye 650 cameras. A Mechanical cooler is not something you want as waitng 5 minutes for cool down to engage a target with your weapon could be ‘inconvenient’ 

Fraser

[Fraser]

Another camera added to the collection that I forgot to mention because it is not your typical ‘thermal’ camera.

Electrophysics 7290A NIR plus SWIR (400nm - 1900nm) Vidicon based camera. This uses the well known Hamamatsu N2606 1” SWIR sensitive vidicon tube. Commonly used without a lens for imaging laser beam shape in the SWIR band above the 1100nm silicon sensor limit. With a lens fitted these cameras find uses in science and artwork forensics. Mine is a beautiful ‘as new’ example with no vidicon damage or wear evident.

An unusual ‘thermal’ camera but it is capable of thermal imaging of a target that is hotter than 250C. It can image such heat even through glass. Standard good quality optical glass CCTV lenses may be used on the 400nm to 1900nm model of 7290A camera but specialist lenses are recommended on the extended range 7290A-06 in order to maintain performance up to 2200nm. My 7290A is fitted with an excellent Fujinon 25mm F1.4 Television lens.

Fraser

[Fraser]

The updated list of my thermal camera collection. I have multiple examples of some cameras. More details about some cameras are contained in this thread or on the forum in my previous posts.

Some of my collection have been re-homed so are not included in this updated list.


Model List V2.0 - January 2019


360-Vision external Thermal CCTV camera (contains a FLIR TAU2 324)

AGA Thermovision 680 (Cooled)
AGEMA Thermovision 510
AGEMA Thermovision 570

AMBER (Raytheon) Radiance 1 (cooled)

AVON ISI nVISION XT 160 (AKA ISI 3500)

BULLARD T3 MAX+ 320

DEWALT / IRISYS DCT-416

DRS ULTRA 6000 CCTV VGA Pan/Tilt
 
EEV ARGUS 1
EEV ARGUS 2
EEV ARGUS 3
E2V ARGUS 4 160
E2V ARGUS 4 HR320
E2V MiTic 320

ELECTROPHYSICS MicronViewer 7290A (NIR-SWIR)

FLIR Autoliv AUDI  camera
FLIR DUO-R
FLIR E4 (Upgraded to E8+)
FLIR E40 Mk1 V2
FLIR E40B Mk1 V2
FLIR ETS320
FLIR FireFLIR FF110
FLIR HS324 PRO
FLIR M324L
FLIR MS224 (upgraded with Scout II 320 motherboard & VGA EVF)
FLIR One Generation 2 Android
FLIR One Generation 2 iOS
FLIR Thermovision A40
FLIR Thermovision PM570
FLIR Thermovision PM575
FLIR Thermovision PM695
FLIR Thermovision S40
FLIR Thermovision SC500
FLIR Thermovision SC3000 (Cooled)

FLUKE / IRISYS VT02
FLUKE / RAYTEK Ti30
FLUKE Ti110

Ganz C-AllView Dual Tech CCTV "Metal Mickey"

GEC-Marconi Pyro 2000

IDEAL (IRISYS) 61-848 Heatseeker 320

INFRAMETRICS PM280 (Cooled)
INFRAMETRICS ThermaSnap 525

IRISYS IRI 1011
IRISYS IRI 4035

ISG Talisman Classic (Pyro-Electric vidicon version)
ISG Talisman Wasp (BST version)

JENOPTIK IR-TCM384

KEYSIGHT (Agilent) U5855A

MIKRON /NEC Avio MikroShot / F30S

Military Long Range thermal camera with reflector lens
Military Long Range thermal camera with refractor lens

Monroe HeatFinder Jr (ISG Elite)

NEC Avio TH7102W
NEC Avio TH7302W
NEC Avio TH9100

RAYTHEON 300A
RAYTHEON CADILLAC Deville Night vision

SATIR MinIR 80

SCOTT Eagle-X 160

SIGNAAL USFA FiCAM 60

SNOOP-IR Surveillance kit - Contains an INDIGO/FLIR OMEGA/A10

[Ultrapurple]

What? No Therm-App?

I'm mildly pleased to note that, current cameras aside, I have an eVet and an MSA that don't presently appear on your list. The eVet is 320x240 15fps BST (I think) with NTSC 30Hz output; the MSA is probably VOX (it has a shutter), 320x250, also 30Hz. I have a lot of accessories for the eVet including the original wired remote, software, manual and so on. It has a very early CF card socket that it can write images to and read them back, unfortunately I haven't had any luck reading the data on anything else.

[Fraser]

  Therm App was too expensive as I buy most of my cameras on the used market at very good prices 

I bought a very nice FLIR E40Bx for £580 and all recent purchases have been “bargains” so paying more for a dongle camera did not really appeal. The Therm App and Thermal Expert are very nice cameras, but having used the FLIR One G2, I have found that I am not a fan of the dongle+phone combination. Just personal preference really.

The eVet sounds interesting. If intended for veterinary examinations (its name suggests such) then it may have been used for looking at race horse legs as such was/is a common check for soft tissue inflammation and damage. Interestingly there is an eVet branded version of the FLIR One G2 dongle for such animal inspections.

MSA have used all manner of other companies cores in their cameras. A model number or picture of the camera would likely be enough for core identification.

Fraser

[Fraser]

Ultrapurple,

I just found a picture of your camera collection, including an Argus 2 

I recognise the eVet and the MSA cameras. I will need to check my archives but IIRC the eVet camera is a Raytheon/L3 product.

Fraser

[Fraser]

The eVet camera is a variant of the Raytheon PALM IR-250D known as the eMerge Vision DTIS500. 320 x 240 pixel BST sensor array. It has a more rounded front lens assembly to make it appear curvaceous and pleasant to the eye.

http://spi-wholesale.com/shop/dtis500-0068-infrared-camera/

Fraser

[Fraser]

Trapurp,e,

Your MSA camera looks to be an Evolution 4000. This uses a BAE imaging core.

This EEVBlog forum thread may be of interest if not already seen 

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/thermal-imaging/(repair)-help-needed-msa-evolution-4000/

Fraser

[Fraser]

FLIR-Indigo SC4000 SWIR-MWIR Wideband Science Camera added to the collection (Cooled)

MSA Evolution 5600 added to the collection.

Fraser

[parkerg]

For some research that I'm doing on fire service cameras

The ISG Talisman with PEV sensor, I have the year that it was introduced as 1993 (was the PEV camera named K90? or just a ISG Talisman?) and what year was it discontinued? Is that also the same cameras that was marketed in the USA as the ISI Vision?

Was there another Talisman model between the PEV camera and the ISG Wasp (K90 Talisman XL)?

Also - What year was the ISG Wasp (K90 Talisman XL) introduced? and I have the year that it was discontinued as 2012

Thanks

[Fraser]

Hi Parkerg,

From memory the model name chronology was as follows:

Talisman - Pevicon tube
Talisman K90 - BST core
Talisman K90 XL - BST core
Talisman K90 Wasp - BST core

I will share with you a research technique that I use for all my cameras after I add them to my collection.

Search the internet for a datasheet relating to an early version of a camera. Find the WWW address of the manufacturer and use the Wayback Machine internet archive to visit the manufacturers site in each year since the camera model of interest was produced. Look for the presence of the camera, any introduction of it as a new model and new versions of it. Download user manuals and data sheets where available as these can have publication dates on them. Note when a model changes name in a year and when it is retired from the manufacturers range of products. This data builds a picture of the release and retirement of each model and any advancement in the design of the replacement model. This technique works well for me and I enjoy browsing the historical archive of a manufacturers web site. The web sites can change URL so keep an eye on the datasheet manufacturer web addresses if the internet archive suddenly stops providing web pages in a particular year.

Have fun

Fraser

[Bill W]

Hi Parkerg,

From memory the model name chronology was as follows:

Talisman - Pevicon tube
Talisman K90 - BST core
Talisman K90 XL - BST core
Talisman K90 Wasp - BST core

ISG press release dated March 1994 for the tube version of Talisman.  It was still called K-90
This would tie up with their first camera release after they formed from ex-EEV people.

There was also a Raytheon 2000AS version, perhaps not that public.

The changeover in shape came with the 'Talisman Elite' (early ULIS sensor ) and 'Talisman Spirit K-80' (using the Raytheon 2000AS)

The K-90 shape may even not be dead yet, for special customers.

Bill

[parkerg]

Thanks for the assistance, from what I have found out-

ISG – Talisman (PEV) sensor. Introduced: 1993 Discontinued:? <2001

ISG –Talisman K90C (UK market) & K90 Talisman (BST) sensor (also marketed as "Talisman") Discontinued early 2003 - also sold by Drager

ISG – Wasp (UK market) (K90 Talisman XL -USA market) (BST) sensor and "digitek 2" software, introduced: (Wasp) 2005 (was still marketed in the UK as a Talisman) - K90 Talisman XL 2003. Discontinued: 2012.

PEV sensor camera was distributed in the USA as the ISI-Vision 1, the K90C was also marketed as Talisman & Talisman K90
 
May be some minor errors, but I think it is ok (the UK web site didn't update info on the Talisman once the Talisman spirit was introduced until later in mid 2005

Not sure when the first BST K90/K90C camera was introduced? (by <2001)

[parkerg]

some more

[parkerg]

I work for a fire service, over the last 20 years we have evaluated and tested several helmet mounted cameras, some of these include products from Cairns, GB Solo and FLIR Systems and Scott. The main reason we use hand held cameras over helmet and mask mounted TICs are as follows:

•   Ease or ability to “share” the image screen or the cost of having each firefighter equipped
•   The ease of passing the camera to another operator during use.
•   Ease of aligning the camera with the direction of view.
•   Screen display quality and size.
•   Situational awareness during use (also linked to the screen size and FOV).
•   No reduction or obstruction of the visual view.
•   Additional features typically found on some hand held cameras and not on this equipment is beneficial for operational use.
•   Setup time is generally faster.
•   No added weight to the helmet or mask.
•   Flexibility of operational use hand held cameras provide.

I have seen and used prototype equipment that show promise

[Fraser]

IRISYS IRI-4010 added to the collection

Fraser

[Fraser]

AGEMA Thermovision 470-SW added to the collection.

This is the 2-5um Mediumwave version of the 470 equipped with a MCT SPRITE Peltier stack cooled detector. The lens fitted is the 12 Degree FOV unit. A large but interesting camera that offers Mediumwave Imaging with 20fps IR frame refresh rate at a very low price. I paid £75 for my example 

Fraser

[Fraser]

Latest acquisition.....

L3 Thermal Eye X50 spotting scope for law enforcement and security forces.

The unit contains a standard Thermal Eye 2K or 3K core that is capable of 160 x 120 pixels resolution. The X50 core is configured to provide 100 x 80 pixels. It’s otherwise identical twin, the X150, provides the full 160 x 120 pixel resolution with associated wider FOV. I shall try to reconfigure the core on the X50 to remove the windowing that is being applied.

Fraser

[Fraser]

ISG Elite E380 added to my collection

Very nice design 

[Mr. Scram]

+

SPi RazIR 160 x 120 pixel/60fps mini TIC.

Building something inspired by the Razr and calling it Razir. 

[Fraser]

Fluke Ti105 added

This will be used as a reference unit to repair a faulty Ti110 I already have.

Fraser

[Fraser]

I am once again the happy owner of a Bullard Eclipse fire fighting camera.

The last unit I bought turned out to be a ‘misplaced’ demo unit so I returned it to its rightful owner. It has taken me 2 years to find another Eclipse to replace that hole in my collection ! This Eclipse comes with a full provenance so I know the seller has the right to sell it to me.... 

This Eclipse is the small screen version and likely to be 80 x 60 pixels thermal resolution, but I think I will be able to release the Indigo Cores full 160 x 120 resolution More on that in another eclipse dedicated post. I deleted my original Eclipse LD teardown to avoid embarrassment to the UK agent. I will likely resurrect parts of it in a new Eclipse teardown post

Fraser

[Fraser]

Seek Thermal Reveal Pro Fast Frame (>15fps) added to the collection

320 x 240 Pixels @ >15fps

Opinion ? - Impressive for the cost (£440), Love the Star Trek like design 

[Fraser]

FLUKE TiS10 added to the collection but awaiting new LCD screen installation.

Opinion - Resolution is low at 80 x 60 but the microbolometer appears to be 320 x 240 pixels.

Another case of hobbling the specification as with the FLIR E4 ? This camera was bought to investigate this possibility.

[Fraser]

FLUKE Ti110 added to the collection.

This camera requires repair so I did not add it to the list but as I have included the TiS10 I thought I would now include the Ti110 that does not boot.

Fraser

[Chanc3]

FLUKE Ti110 added to the collection.

This camera requires repair so I did not add it to the list but as I have included the TiS10 I thought I would now include the Ti110 that does not boot.

Fraser

Was this the camera on eBay that was dropped? If so, I remember seeing the listing and thinking "That'll be an easy one for Fraser to fix!".

[Fraser]

If I am honest I cannot remember. I bought several FLUKE cameras over the past few years but this one has no obvious drop damage, it just does not want to boot. I have not spent any time on it yet so no idea what the issue might be. I hope to look at a few ‘patients’ that have been waiting far too long for attention. Once I get rid of my excess test kit I will have the time and space in my lab to do far more repair work

Fraser

[Fraser]

Seek Thermal Reveal Pro QVGA Slow Frame (<9fps) model added to the collection.

This used unit was purchased with a view to investigating a better lens for it and maybe other tasteful modifications 

Fraser

[Fraser]

FLIR One PRO Gen3 (160 x 120 pixels) Android version added to the collection

Fraser

[Fraser]

This thread has got a bit messy as an information resource so I have started a new one that also includes the optional lenses and software that I have in my collection.

Please see here:

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/thermal-imaging/frasers-thermal-camera-collection-the-definitive-list-regularly-updated/


I will update the lists in the first four posts as and when I have a change in my collection

Fraser