EEVblog Electronics Community Forum
Products => Thermal Imaging => Topic started by: 4collectandsell on January 17, 2021, 10:44:10 pm
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Im getting a headache lol. Im the type who wants to buy 5 different of everything I need and figure out which is best. Then somehow I end up keeping 3 of them and wasting too much money and a ton of time. Im here to just ask for some help.
Primarily uses:
- I plan to go to aerial eventually but for now I need to be able to stand at a roof and get some readings where i could possibly scan a larger area at once. At least a 10'x10' area anyhow standing 20 feet away from. Im open to hearing you experience and recommendations.
Flat Roofing non destructive find trapped moisture / leaks / etc
Attic & Ceiling viewing for lack of insulation / Moisture
Viewing windows, doors, walls just to see where heat is being loss
HOWEVER ROOFING IS PRIMARY, the rest are not necessary
I recently got the FLIR PRO ONE
Do not like it
Can't stand having to use my phone
Battery is no good
If any port issues with IPHONE, then it shuts off as well on movements.
Rather have a standalone
I also want way to export for presentation reports.
Doesnt have to be fancy but easy is best. At least able to show images and draw on images, add text etc.
Can I use FLIR tools or software with any camera?
Best software recommended?
I am looking at the Flir C5, FLIR TG267, PerfectPrime IR0018 on amazon, TOPDON ITC629 on amazon. I also like something rugged and see the SEEK revealPRO and it’s a 340x240 sensor. I would imagine the sensor is primary? I’ll wait to hear experience and thoughts.
I cant seem to find sensor sizes so easily but like many say its confusing and I know they are being deceptive in numbers. I've seen enough tech that has lower specs and just due to the quality of a sensor or materials, it absolutely decimates a competitor advertising higher numbers.
Appreciate any and all help. Thank you
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An obvious choice would be the venerable FLIR E4 upgraded to its full 320 x 240 pixel resolution. It is a rugged, rubber coated, unit with fixed focus so no fiddling with a focus ring whilst on a ladder or balancing on a roof. It is easily used single handed in full auto mode. Imaging performance and measurement accuracy is more than good enough for your needs. The Field of view is great for building work at 45 x 34 degrees. Minimum focus is 0.5m.
https://docs.rs-online.com/5fa9/0900766b813718f3.pdf
https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/thermal-imaging-cameras/8481365/
The E4 price is a little bit higher than your stated budget but worth the extra expenditure. You might be able to charge it to your business and recover taxes etc ? You would need to upgrade the cameras configuration, as detailed on this forum. It comes with only 80 x 60 resolution imaging but is easily upgraded to its true hardware specification of 320 x 240. If reselling the E4 you will recover most, if not all, of your investment if it is in 320 x 240 configuration ;)
Everything you need to know about the E4 and it’s upgrade is to be found on this forum as this is the source of the knowledge for the E4 upgrade process and further enhancements. The E4 is the darling of thermography fans who cannot afford, or justify spending several thousand Dollars on a thermal camera :-+
Fraser