How to Purchase a Thermal Imaging Camera

Ensure software has the functions necessary for your application.

• IR Flash Professional Thermal Imaging Analysis Software

  Is the full version of the software included?
  Several unscrupulous companies may try to sell you a “watered down” version or a lite version of their software to allow viewing only of the images or limited functionality. At ICI we offer several software packages, but all of them are the full software suite with all functions enabled.
  
• How many users will need access to the software, is there a charge for multiple licensed users for the software? Infrared Cameras Inc. offers no restrictions to multiple users across multiple computers.
• Does the software include all the analysis tools needed? Not all software is created equal, make sure to review the features the software offers.
• Is the software included with the price of the camera? Most manufacturers will include software with their cameras, but not necessarily the full version.
• Does the software work with your computer specifications? If you have a 64 bit or Macintosh computer, you may have difficulty finding the correct software and drivers.



ICI only offers full working versions of our software, we do not have any limited or lite versions available. All of our cameras come with the full version of the software.  Our software also allows for unlimited installations and user access.  So you will never have to pay an additional fee for an extra software CD so you can install it on your home and work computer.  If you lose your software we will send you another CD for the cost of shipping or allow you to download it for no charge..  We believe the end user should not have to be burden with “hidden fees” that could hinder there ability to work and make an income.

Ensure the Thermal Imaging Camera has the built in features necessary for your application.

• Do you require single or multiple temperature measure points?
  
• All IR cameras should have accuracy at the industry standard of ± 2° C or ±2% . This is the industry standard and anything above that may provide unreliable and inaccurate temperature measurements.
  
• Make sure your camera allows you adjust the emissivity settings. If you cannot adjust emissivity you cannot get accurate readings.
  
• Buy a camera with video output if you need to view or record live video, ensure the camera is HD 50/60Hz with a high resolution for the best possible viewing.
  
• Buy a thermal imaging camera that outputs to industry standard format image, such as Jpeg and Tiff that are industry standards and easily emailed to clients.
• Ensure your camera will be able to measure temperature high or low enough for your application.
  
• Buy a thermal imaging camera with trade in potential –buy from manufacturer that offers loaners – trade ins, rentals , and demos.
  
• Buy from a well known manufacturer with a sales staff trained in thermography.
• Does the camera include temperature tracking, visible camera, laser pointer, alarming features, correct focal length, and the correct angle of lens?
  
• What type of lens is include? What type of lens best suits your application? – are optional lenses available for upgrade?
  
• Are all the accessories included in the price?(case, battery, charger, etc.)
• Buy a camera with no proprietary accessories or batteries. Having the option to pick up a back-up battery at your local radio shack can save you a lot of money and time.

Other Considerations and Tips.

• Warranty - Ensure that the camera comes with a standard 1 year warranty. Many manufacturers offer a 2 year warranty or the ability to purchase an extended warranty. If your thermal camera is critical to your business's success, ensure that a loaner camera can be provided in case your thermal camera needs repairs.
• Thermography Training - To ensure accuracy, all personnel using the thermal imaging camera should be properly trained in level 1 thermography. Training can help one better determine the type of camera needed as well as many instructors will review individual cameras and software's for the benefits of their students. Consider renting or getting a demo unit during your training class before actually purchasing the thermal camera. At ICI we offer a "Try before you Buy" rental program. You rent the camera as usual, but if you decide to purchase the unit, we will waive the rental fee up to one week.
• Medical Applications - When purchasing a thermal imaging camera for medical purposes, ensure that the camera has been cleared by the FDA for use as a medical device. This ensures that the camera is of the highest quality and accuracy for medical use. Infrared Cameras Inc. has recieved FDA 510k Clearance to market our S and P series thermal imaging cameras as medical devices.
• Thermal Sensitivity or NETD - Thermal sensitivity is measured in terms of milliKelvins (mK). The lower the sensitivity the more sensitive the camera is. A low sensitivity indicates the cameras overall image quality and can thus affect accuracy when calculating temperatures.
• Calibration and Repair - Another good point to consider is whether the manufacturer you are purchasing from has their own Calibration and Repair center. The majority of thermal cameras require calibration every year or two depending on use. If the camera has to be sent overseas for repair or calibration, you may be without a camera for several weeks or even months. Therefore it is important to find out if a loaner camera will be sent while your camera is away for calibration or repair.

Conclusion

This buyer's guide was written by Infrared Cameras Inc. for general informational purposes. Most manufacturers will meet or exceed these suggested buying requirements. Feel free to contact us for more information or questions regarding your purchase of a new thermal infrared imaging camera.

Previous Page