FLIR Systems SR-304 thermal imaging camera detects man-sized targets at 2 kilometers

25 February 2010

FLIR Systems has launched the SR-304 thermal imaging camera for mid-range security and surveillance applications. The new FLIR Systems SR-304 is an addition to the SR-Series thermal imaging cameras. The SR-304 is an expansion of the existing product line into narrower field of view cameras with longer range performance - the SR-304 has a narrow 4° field of view.

The SR-304 is using advanced thermal imaging technology. It incorporates an uncooled Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detector producing crisp 320 x 240 pixels thermal images.

The SR-304 is a fixed thermal imaging camera. It provides crisp, clear thermal imagery in total darkness, light fog or smoke. It features the same thermal imaging technology found in many of FLIR’s most sophisticated security and surveillance systems, but is packaged for users who have mid-range security and surveillance as their primary application.

It includes FLIR’s advanced image processing techniques which deliver excellent contrast regardless of scene dynamics. Unlike other night vision systems that require low amounts of light to generate an image, the SR-304 needs no light at all.

The SR-304 contains the best Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detector technology on the market today. This provides the camera with an excellent sensitivity so that the user is able to see the smallest of details in the image even at long ranges. The image quality is further enhanced through FLIR Systems patented DDE (Digital Detail Enhancement) image processing technology.

The SR-304 can detect man-sized targets at a distance of no less than 2 kilometers. Objects the size of a small car can be detected more than 5 kilometers away.

Equipped with an “athermal lens”, the SR-304 is able to maintain focus no matter what the environmental temperature is. There is no need for user adjustments. Once it is installed, the SR-304 will deliver a sharp, focused image.

The absence of a motorized focus mechanism prevents mechanical breakdowns. The SR-304 does not need any maintenance whatsoever. This is guarantees an extremely low total cost of ownership.

The SR-304 can be easily connected to common power and video interfaces found in existing and new security systems. It can be easily integrated into any existing CCTV infrastructure providing early detection and visibility 24/7 all the year round. The images from the 320 x 240 pixels detector can be displayed on virtually any existing display that accepts composite video.

The SR-304 is an extremely rugged system. Its vital core is well protected, meeting Mil-Std-810E and IP66 requirements, against humidity and water. A sealed lens maintains the environmental ratings of the existing enclosure. The SR-304 operates between -40°C and +55°C. It has a built-in heater which ensures a clear lens and perfect infrared images displayed on your monitor even in extremely cold environments.

About thermal imaging

Thermal imaging is the use of cameras constructed with specialty sensors that “see” thermal energy emitted from an object. Thermal, or infrared energy, is light that is not visible to the human eye because its wavelength is too long to be detected. It’s the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that we perceive as heat. Infrared allows us to see what our eyes can not.

Thermal imaging cameras produce images of invisible infrared or “heat” radiation. Based on temperature differences between objects, thermal imaging produces a clear image. In contrast with other technologies, such as light amplification, thermal imaging needs no light whatsoever to produce an image on which the smallest of details can be seen. Thermal imaging provides full visibility irrespective of the prevailing light level and weather conditions.

It can see in total darkness, in the darkest of nights, through fog, in the far distance, through smoke and is able to detect anyone hiding in the shadows. It is used for security and surveillance, maritime, automotive, firefighting and many other applications.