i3 Infared Camera from Flir Systems Australia

New FLIR i3 camera brings IR power to the people

FLIR Systems has today released its new 'price breakthrough' i3 infrared camera, which is tipped to revolutionise the way consumers think about infrared cameras.

Prices for infrared cameras have tumbled in recent years as the technology has become more affordable for mass commercial markets with FLIR leading the way - i3 continues this tradition.

The pocket-sized, multi-purpose i3 for building and electrical inspections joins FLIR's biggest selling i5 and i7 models and is the most affordable and cost-effective full function infrared camera in the range.

The i3 is designed to suit newcomers to thermography with a very simple menu operation, image store in JPEG format (FLIR patented) in commonly used SD card, making it an easy task to share inspection result with colleagues

The value-packed 'pocket-rocket' is easy to use with a high level of accuracy and focus free viewing. Designed with sufficient functionality to suit most applications, the FLIR i3 weighs just 340 grams, has a user-friendly menu system and is manufactured to a rugged design with built-in lens protection.

The FLIR i3 produces instant, point-and-shoot JPEG infrared imagery, that carries all required temperature data and that can be stored internally or externally, sent and analyzed. FLIR's patented JPEG image format allows operators to download and view images and to share them with colleagues or clients. Up to 5000 Radiometric JPEG format images can be saved onto the included MicroSD card. These images can be analysed using the included QuickReport™ PC Software.

The FLIR i3 measures temperatures up to +250°C and detects temperature differences as small as 0.15° C, displayed on the camera's bright 2.8" LCD display. Its temperature measurement range suits most applications in electrical, mechanical, and building environments. A long-life battery ensures up to 5 hours of continuous operation.

Key specifications FLIR i3

• Weight 340g
• Battery time 5 hours
• Temp range -20 to +250°C
• IR sensor, 60 x 60 pixels
• 12.5 degree FOV
• High Sensitivity (sensitive to < O.15 °C)
• High resolution 2.8" Colour LCD
• Ergonomic design
• Accuracy+-2 °C
• Mini SD-card >5000 pictures

FLIR says the i3 delivers high quality 'commercial functionality' IR technology at a price designed to suit the budgets of a wide range of end-users including electrical technicians, maintenance personnel, HVAC and many other trades.

FLIR says for electrical applications the i3 is a non-contact IR camera and 100% safe for engineers to carry out inspection tasks avoiding potential injuries from arc-flash.

For electrical applications:

• FLIR i3 thermal image is created from minimum 60x60 IR resolution (equivalent to 3600 read outs from a traditional single-spot meter) giving the user both an instant 'hot spot' reading and temperature, or heat distribution over the area
• Electrical engineers are able to document their inspection results in a report and decide further repair/ maintenance action

"Infrared everywhere is our motto," says Roger Christiansz, Managing Director FLIR Systems Australia: "Industrial fires are usually caused by electrical failures. With the introduction of the affordably priced i3 thermal imager, we look forward to spreading the good news to all electrical maintenance managers. For them this is a 'no brainer' to get this tool right away and help reduce the number of preventable industrial fires."

Longer term goals to achieve energy efficiencies in new buildings and old are being introduced by Governments around the world. FLIR is at the forefront of promoting this 'green' approach.

Well insulated buildings:

• are energy-efficient, thus saving the owner's money
• provide more uniform temperature throughout the space, this producing a more comfortable environment which is proven to increase productivity
• insulation is permanent and requires no maintenance or recurring expenses

Roger Christiansz: " With data obtained from your FLIR thermal imaging camera, you will know where to focus your insulation efforts accurately for the greatest effect. The return on investment is visible right away."

Special features of FLIR i3 for building:

- thermal images often show up deficiencies in areas such as insulation, potential water damage to walls/ ceiling, termites, mould under carpet, pipe and other electrical problem in buildings
- users are measuring different materials with different emissivity factor. The measured result vary due to this. The FLIR i3 allows the user to pre-set the correct parameters (in the camera), to ensure reliable measuring data and reports.

Roger Christiansz: "Our ongoing market research has shown a growing demand for infrared technology across many industries as more people become aware of the practical possibilities of how the technology can work to improve their daily lives and their business.

'The i3 delivers entry-level thermal imaging technology at a cost that is very affordable and will certainly have a quick payback period for the end user. The i3 continues the FLIR tradition of simplicity and convenience in its design.

'Just 'point-shoot-detect' to obtain high-quality infrared images that will immediately give you the infrared information you need."

Key features include:

• Ergonomic design
• Extremely lightweight
• 2% high accuracy and thermal sensitivity of 0.15 degrees C
• Large high-resolution 2.8" colour LCD saved on Mini SD-card
• Focus free lens for quick and convenient viewing