| Accuracy
Higher resolution infrared
cameras are quite compelling, producing sharp images with excellent
detail.
Even more important, however, is the dramatic improvement in
overall accuracy in certain situations. This is because higher resolution
normally results in smaller IFOV (instantaneous field of view) and
smaller measurement spot size.
When comparing different infrared cameras having the same field
of view, the measurement spot size decreases with increasing camera
resolution. Consequently, the highest resolution cameras have the
smallest measurement spot.
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As illustrated in the thermal images above,
it would be unwise to use a low resolution
camera for measuring the temperature of small
objects at a distance. For accurate measurements
in such situations, high resolution cameras
produce the best accuracy and reduce the likelihood
of overlooking potential problems. |
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| In some circumstances, the degree of measurement
inaccuracy due to the use of lower resolution infrared cameras
can be quite large and could cause Thermographers to overlook
potential problems. |
In order to achieve accurate temperature measurement,
the measurement spot size must be small enough so that there are
no significant temperature variations on the object. In other words,
the temperature of the object over the measurement spot must be uniform.
The example to the right illustrates the error that’s caused
when different resolution infrared cameras are used to measure the
temperature of a small electrical connection at a distance with a
cold sky as
background. The degree of inaccuracy is
quite large and could cause the thermographer to overlook potential
problems.
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Calculate
Your Camera's Measurement Spot Size.
Our Spot Size
Calculator helps determine measurement spot size for different
camera specifications
and viewing situations.
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