Thermal imager with data logging

The Electrophysics HotShot thermal imaging camera has an in-built PDA-type touch screen and Qwerty keyboard for data logging functions.

Users can enter descriptive image file names, asset locations and inspection comments using the keyboard. They can record equipment type, diagnosis, repair recommendations and severity codes via pull-down menus on the data entry screen.

Capturing image and inspection information on-site in-camera provides a solid link between the image and related inspection notes, providing a more reliable and accurate system than error-prone handwritten notes.

The thermal imagers also introduce the concept of route-based inspections to thermal imaging inspections. By prompting users on which inspection to carry out next, the route-based method provides an effective and accountable way of managing repetitive inspections of critical assets. Routes can also be learned by the camera to provide a survey report - a management tool that ensures the repeatability of future inspections.

The system also makes it easier to manage asset histories and look for trends and anomalies.

The camera features a temperature range up to 500°C and a high-quality 160 x 120 microbolometer infrared image sensor with sophisticated pixel interpolation that increases display resolution to 240 x 180. It has an in-built visible light camera, motorised focus, 2X digital zoom, optional 3X telephoto and wide-angle lenses and a comprehensive set of measurement tools with up to five spot meters.

Automatic report generation software can generate reports, whether five pages or 105 pages, in less than 3 mins. All the data in the report comes from the image file which the user generated on site using the keyboard and data entry features, eliminating the need to transcribe notes later.