EEVblog Electronics Community Forum

Products => Thermal Imaging => Topic started by: handydandyman on August 17, 2020, 07:56:04 pm

Title: "True" Thermal Camera vs Imaging IR Thermometer
Post by: handydandyman on August 17, 2020, 07:56:04 pm

Hi, newbie here.

I'm looking for a thermal device for personal vehicle diagnostics.
Mainly for looking at radiators, coolant hoses, HVAC, etc

This is for casual and infrequent use so Im looking at lower end devices:
TG165-X, Flir One Pro/Pro LT, or Seek Compact/Pro

I've read the TG165 is not a true thermal camera, but more of a spot thermometer
Can someone please explain the pro/cons of that for my use?
Are the smartphone devices also not true thermal cameras?

Thank you

Title: Re: "True" Thermal Camera vs Imaging IR Thermometer
Post by: DaJMasta on August 17, 2020, 10:08:33 pm

It basically comes down to calibration.  The sensor in the TG165 is the same kind as other thermal cameras, but it doesn't have the calibration values included to get accurate temperature data from every pixel.  Instead, it measures temperature from just the center, but then the remaining pixels on the sensor will still give you consistent relative measurements and a normal thermal image.  In FLIR cameras where this is optional, the option is usually called "radiometric", but these cameras and their standard inspection cameras will export images that are fully calibrated so you can read a temperature (within the specification of the sensor and with differences in emissivity and such) from any and every pixel on the screen - this also means you can just have the camera look for hotspots in software and point them out in places other than the center.


This can count for a lot in some kinds of industrial and scientific applications, but for inspection purposes it probably isn't essential.  Many less expensive cameras are configured like this and as mentioned, some can be optioned up for higher prices for the required calibration.

Title: Re: "True" Thermal Camera vs Imaging IR Thermometer
Post by: Lord of nothing on August 20, 2020, 02:18:07 pm

Hi
If you want to use it for "Home use" I orderd a Hand Held Camera from China who have a Flir Sensor in it.
It called HT-19 and have a 320*240 Thermal Resolution. For my Home need affordable enough.
LG

Title: Re: "True" Thermal Camera vs Imaging IR Thermometer
Post by: handydandyman on August 21, 2020, 02:38:57 am

I ended up buying a Seek Compact XR.

I just got it about 2 hours ago. I really like it so far. Very cool device!

I'm still learning my way around the focus and the app features.