New thermal imager provides two cameras in one device

Precision sensor specialist Micro-Epsilon has launched a new version of its thermal imaging camera that now integrates two cameras into a single device, enabling the user to either switch between the images from the IR camera and the real image, or have the two images overlaid.

Micro-Epsilon’s new thermoIMAGER TIM 200 is an inline radiometric thermal imaging camera that provides temperature images and profiles of a target area. The device operates using new bi-spectral technology, combining two images into one. In this version, both a visual camera and an infrared (IR) camera are fitted to the thermoIMAGER housing. The visual camera can synchronously record a real image as well as an infrared one.

The camera is able to measure temperatures from -20 deg C to +1,500 deg C. Unlike traditional infrared vision cameras, the thermoIMAGER TIM series assigns a calibrated temperature value to each recorded pixel, so that no comparative measurement takes place.

Using special software, users of the thermoIMAGER TIM 200 can either switch between the images from the IR camera and the real image, or have the two images overlaid. This means that the camera can be aligned effortlessly and that temperature-critical areas can be selected when required.

The thermoIMAGER TIM 200 is ideally suited for those tasks where previously two seperate cameras – a CCD camera and a thermal imaging camera – were used. Potential applications for the technology are in early-warning fire detection systems in open areas and in waste disposal sites, the temperature control of bulk materials and metals, production of solar panels, and for electronics R&D. The system is also suitable for investigating complex machinery and equipment where orientation is very difficult without a visual image.

Powered and operated via a USB 2.0 interface, the thermoIMAGER TIM 200 is This plug-and-play unit is supplied with a full software package, TIM Connect, that enables the user to configure all device parameters, as well as enabling the real time capture (at 96Hz full frame rate) and storage of images or video of an event for slow motion play back or snapshots at a later date – an important feature in R&D and failure diagnostics work.

Analogue inputs and outputs are provided, as well as digital communication via RS232 or DLL for software integration. Output of analogue temperature or trigger/alert values are via process interfaces provided. The camera also comes with a software developer kit and LabVIEW driver as standard.

The camera is extremely rugged (IP67) and lightweight (215g). With dimensions of just 45mm x 45mm x 62mm, the camera remains one of the smallest USB-operated infrared cameras available on the market today.

For more information on Micro-Epsilon’s thermoIMAGER TIM200, please call the Micro-Epsilon sales department on 0151 355 6070 or email: info@micro-epsilon.co.uk