FLIR Systems unveils H-Series handheld thermal imaging cameras

FLIR Systems has launched its H-Series handheld shock-resistant thermal imaging cameras. Reported suitable for security and law enforcement applications, the cameras are said to see suspects in total darkness, through light fog and smoke, as well as light foliage.

 The units are also handy tools for walking patrols involved in securing industrial sites or borders, as well as for customs and law enforcement officers and others who need to see what is happening in total darkness and all weather conditions, without being seen themselves.

 The H-Series are described as cost effective thermal night vision cameras, producing images of 320 x 240 pixels. Internal camera software is claimed to deliver crisp images without the need for operational user adjustments.

 Weighing 660 grams, the equipment is compact and light, FLIR adds. The cameras are IP67 rated, operate between -20°C and +60°C, and are operated using five buttons on top of the unit. They work on four rechargeable AA NiMH batteries, but can also run on standard non-rechargeable alkaline or lithium ion AA batteries. A shuttered eye-piece allows the operator to remain covert, it's reported.

 Different versions are available, with the HS-324 equipped with a 19 mm lens providing a 24° field of view. For longer range performance, the HS-324 can be equipped with a 2X extender which offers a 12° field of view.

 Users needing to see further can choose the HS-307: equipped with a 65 mm lens, providing a 7° field of view, it allows the user to spot a man-sized target at a distance of 1.5 km, FLIR states.

Both versions are equipped with a 2X digital zoom.

 Meanwhile, for users wanting to do more than just see an image, the Pro version of the HS-324 and HS-307 comes with a number of features, including image and video storage for evidence gathering, a USB2 connection and a real-time clock.

 Thermal imaging cameras like the H-Series work by detecting the heat energy being radiated and need no light at all to produce a clear image in the darkest environments. Thermal imaging cameras are not affected by the amount of light, so you will not be blinded when looking at a light source.

 Thermal imaging cameras 'see' thermal, or infrared energy emitted from an object - ie light that is not visible to the human eye because its wavelength is too long to be detected (the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat).

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