Thermal Imager Seek Thermal Compact
Add a review about my little assistant - a mobile thermal imager-prefix Seek Thermal Compact. A thermal imager for smartphones and tablets will help detect and repair heat or cold leaks, notice problems with electrical wiring, see local heating or overheating areas, find prey while hunting, and so on. Seek Thermal managed to create an inexpensive and affordable compact device that connects to a smartphone or tablet, and has the full functionality of “adult” professional models.
The Seek Thermal Compact mobile imager is a small external camera attachment for a smartphone, which includes a micro-bolometric matrix with a special LWIR lens. The imager is designed in the USA and, unlike Chinese fakes, has excellent characteristics.
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Main characteristics:
Brand: Seek Thermal
Model: Compact
Thermal sensor resolution: 206 x 156 pixels
FOV viewing angle: 36 degrees
Detection range: Up to 300 meters
Sweep frequency: 9 Hz
Autofocus: Yes
The thermal imager works in the LWIR-range (infrared). Ordinary lenses do not transmit LWIR radiation, so for thermal imaging devices they are produced from germanium (Ge). The microbolometer sensor is a matrix of miniature thin-film thermistors. The infrared radiation collected and focused on the sensor by the lens of the thermal imager heats the elements of the matrix in accordance with the temperature distribution of the observed object. With each switch-on and during continuous operation, regular recalibration occurs with a characteristic click.
Included is a special case for carrying and storing the device. The case protects not only from shocks and falls, but also from moisture.
Inside there is a soft insert that protects the imager from shocks and other effects.
The case is compact, there is a ring for hanging on the key chain. Easy to fit in your pocket.
To adjust the image there is a ring on the lens.
To connect to a smartphone or tablet is a MicroUSB connector (or Lightning for Apple devices).
For smartphones with Type-C, conventional adapters are suitable. I recommend not to save and take the adapter more expensive, because due to the bounce of contacts in cheap models, the thermal imager periodically turns off. Better "perebdet."
To work with the device, you need to download and install the special application “Seek Thermal” from the App Store or Google Play
Next, we connect Seek Thermal directly to a smartphone or tablet, or through an adapter.
We start the application, give permission to access the camera, select and configure modes for ourselves.
The application has a number of settings, markers, palettes to choose from to increase the contrast of the image, as well as the ability to shoot video.
Comparison of different models of Seek Thermal
Note the different FOV angle of view (From 20 ° to 36 °) for different models.
Pro-version of the device has a matrix with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, the remaining 206 x 156 pixels. The XR model has a focused lens system, and the younger Compact has a fixed focus.
I had an old Seek Thermal Compact XR lying around, so there will be a few more photos for a live comparison of these models (Compact XR on the left, updated Compact on the right).
The main difference, in addition to cost, is the presence of a variable focal length. To adjust which serves a massive rotary ring on the lens. The photographs show a noticeable difference in the lenses of the two models (in the photo on the left - the updated Compact, on the right Compact XR).
Update: the old Compact models really lacked focus. In the new model Seek Thermal Compact (in the article) the design has been updated and, nevertheless, this feature has been implemented. Differences from the model Compact XR minimum.
But for comparison, Flir One Pro (3th Gen) is one of the most expensive console models for smartphones and tablets. The bolometric matrix of this Flir One model has only 160 x 120 sensitive elements (against 206 x 156 points on the Seek), and a similar viewing angle FOV: 55 x 43 ° (on the Seek 36 °). And this is at three times the cost than Seek.
This is a rather bulky model with a built-in battery, an additional camera of the visible range. I also use the Flir One Pro model with an adapter.
As for the operation of the imager, then it takes some time to get acquainted with the instructions and software capabilities.
Application scenarios for the Seek Thermal Compact thermal imager
The problem of home insulation has been taking humanity since the time when our ancestors settled in the caves. We can protect the premises from the effects of cold with our own hands and on the eyes. But how to check how well we did it? You can walk with a candle, study the directions of drafts or fix frost on the walls. And you can conduct thermal imaging inspection of the premises using a mobile thermal imager Seek Thermal, getting a complete picture of the temperature difference in the study area. But this is not the only application of a mini-thermal imager. Mobile imager will help wherever you need to see the heat or cold. The main application is to search and diagnose problems with electrical wiring, switchboard equipment, search for communications embedded in the floor or walls, detect refrigerant leaks, decorating defects, search for causes of drafts, heat leaks and much more.
Recently, great importance is given to thermal inspections - the type of diagnostics of construction defects of country houses, villas and city apartments, checking wall insulation, installing plastic windows, diagnostics of the “warm floor”, heating and plumbing with a thermal imager.
The photo shows a panel house, part of which is insulated outside. A similar method is used as heat insulation with significant defects in the seams and the panels of a residential house. Moreover, the use of a thermal imager can both predict defects and help determine the location of the application of additional insulation, and to diagnose the results of insulation. Definitely try to find a thermal imager (or thermal inspection services) when accepting work when putting the house in, when warming, when carrying out outdoor work, and so on.
The other day captured the imager for inspection of engineering networks in the building. In addition to the visual control do not be lazy, look through the imager. You can check not only electrics and lighting (for unwanted overheating or heating where there should not be), hot and cold water supply communications, but also to evaluate air conditioning and ventilation systems. The photo has bright spots - energy-saving lamps, as well as heat traces of communications.
And here thermal insulation is obviously damaged. Let's write down for the nearest scheduled maintenance.
One of the popular applications of the thermal imager is hunting, especially in the dark. In conditions of complex visibility, the imager allows you to uniquely determine the presence of the desired animals.
Here, for example, thermographic image of birds.
The most highlight - the imager "catches" it in dynamics. Here is an excerpt from the bird watching video. Visually, they are not clearly visible against the background of grass and bushes.
The imager is suitable for monitoring and troubleshooting complex machinery and equipment.
For example, you can use to assess the "health" of the cooling system and the release of a car engine.
The photo shows a picture of the brake disk of the car after the trip.
Heated engine (exhaust manifold in the foreground).
Side view of the engine - hot pipes and a hot radiator for cooling the engine are visible.
For comparison, here are thermographic images of Seek Thermal Compact (left) and Compact XR (right).
Table fan
BMW car after the trip.
Further more interesting.
Thermal imaging of Seek Thermal Compact (left), Compact XR (center) and Flir One Pro (right). In this case, XR pulls the clarity by focusing, and Flir - by an additional optical camera.
Flir displays the picture is not very honest. He draws an image based on the results of visible camera images. This may cause an error. Seek with a matrix of 60% more (206 x 156 against 160 x 120 pixels) shows a more “correct" image. Additionally, you can pull out using a variety of palettes.
On Habré you can find many applications of this imager. There is also information about the components of the device ( source ).
Compact size combined with the technical specifications of serious
stationary models - make the Compact thermal imager indispensable for home,
and for professional use. And given the low cost, Seek is the leader of low-end models.
Thermal imager Seek Thermal Compact from July 1 to July 31, 2019 is sold at a special price with a 15% discount: 19 465 p. Use promo code STLeto1 to get a discount.
The Seek Thermal Compact mobile imager is a small external camera attachment for a smartphone, which includes a micro-bolometric matrix with a special LWIR lens. The imager is designed in the USA and, unlike Chinese fakes, has excellent characteristics.
')
Main characteristics:
Brand: Seek Thermal
Model: Compact
Thermal sensor resolution: 206 x 156 pixels
FOV viewing angle: 36 degrees
Detection range: Up to 300 meters
Sweep frequency: 9 Hz
Autofocus: Yes
The thermal imager works in the LWIR-range (infrared). Ordinary lenses do not transmit LWIR radiation, so for thermal imaging devices they are produced from germanium (Ge). The microbolometer sensor is a matrix of miniature thin-film thermistors. The infrared radiation collected and focused on the sensor by the lens of the thermal imager heats the elements of the matrix in accordance with the temperature distribution of the observed object. With each switch-on and during continuous operation, regular recalibration occurs with a characteristic click.
Included is a special case for carrying and storing the device. The case protects not only from shocks and falls, but also from moisture.
Inside there is a soft insert that protects the imager from shocks and other effects.
The case is compact, there is a ring for hanging on the key chain. Easy to fit in your pocket.
To adjust the image there is a ring on the lens.
To connect to a smartphone or tablet is a MicroUSB connector (or Lightning for Apple devices).
For smartphones with Type-C, conventional adapters are suitable. I recommend not to save and take the adapter more expensive, because due to the bounce of contacts in cheap models, the thermal imager periodically turns off. Better "perebdet."
To work with the device, you need to download and install the special application “Seek Thermal” from the App Store or Google Play
Next, we connect Seek Thermal directly to a smartphone or tablet, or through an adapter.
We start the application, give permission to access the camera, select and configure modes for ourselves.
The application has a number of settings, markers, palettes to choose from to increase the contrast of the image, as well as the ability to shoot video.
Comparison of different models of Seek Thermal
Note the different FOV angle of view (From 20 ° to 36 °) for different models.
Pro-version of the device has a matrix with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, the remaining 206 x 156 pixels. The XR model has a focused lens system, and the younger Compact has a fixed focus.
I had an old Seek Thermal Compact XR lying around, so there will be a few more photos for a live comparison of these models (Compact XR on the left, updated Compact on the right).
The main difference, in addition to cost, is the presence of a variable focal length. To adjust which serves a massive rotary ring on the lens. The photographs show a noticeable difference in the lenses of the two models (in the photo on the left - the updated Compact, on the right Compact XR).
Update: the old Compact models really lacked focus. In the new model Seek Thermal Compact (in the article) the design has been updated and, nevertheless, this feature has been implemented. Differences from the model Compact XR minimum.
But for comparison, Flir One Pro (3th Gen) is one of the most expensive console models for smartphones and tablets. The bolometric matrix of this Flir One model has only 160 x 120 sensitive elements (against 206 x 156 points on the Seek), and a similar viewing angle FOV: 55 x 43 ° (on the Seek 36 °). And this is at three times the cost than Seek.
This is a rather bulky model with a built-in battery, an additional camera of the visible range. I also use the Flir One Pro model with an adapter.
As for the operation of the imager, then it takes some time to get acquainted with the instructions and software capabilities.
Application scenarios for the Seek Thermal Compact thermal imager
The problem of home insulation has been taking humanity since the time when our ancestors settled in the caves. We can protect the premises from the effects of cold with our own hands and on the eyes. But how to check how well we did it? You can walk with a candle, study the directions of drafts or fix frost on the walls. And you can conduct thermal imaging inspection of the premises using a mobile thermal imager Seek Thermal, getting a complete picture of the temperature difference in the study area. But this is not the only application of a mini-thermal imager. Mobile imager will help wherever you need to see the heat or cold. The main application is to search and diagnose problems with electrical wiring, switchboard equipment, search for communications embedded in the floor or walls, detect refrigerant leaks, decorating defects, search for causes of drafts, heat leaks and much more.
Recently, great importance is given to thermal inspections - the type of diagnostics of construction defects of country houses, villas and city apartments, checking wall insulation, installing plastic windows, diagnostics of the “warm floor”, heating and plumbing with a thermal imager.
The photo shows a panel house, part of which is insulated outside. A similar method is used as heat insulation with significant defects in the seams and the panels of a residential house. Moreover, the use of a thermal imager can both predict defects and help determine the location of the application of additional insulation, and to diagnose the results of insulation. Definitely try to find a thermal imager (or thermal inspection services) when accepting work when putting the house in, when warming, when carrying out outdoor work, and so on.
The other day captured the imager for inspection of engineering networks in the building. In addition to the visual control do not be lazy, look through the imager. You can check not only electrics and lighting (for unwanted overheating or heating where there should not be), hot and cold water supply communications, but also to evaluate air conditioning and ventilation systems. The photo has bright spots - energy-saving lamps, as well as heat traces of communications.
And here thermal insulation is obviously damaged. Let's write down for the nearest scheduled maintenance.
One of the popular applications of the thermal imager is hunting, especially in the dark. In conditions of complex visibility, the imager allows you to uniquely determine the presence of the desired animals.
Here, for example, thermographic image of birds.
The most highlight - the imager "catches" it in dynamics. Here is an excerpt from the bird watching video. Visually, they are not clearly visible against the background of grass and bushes.
The imager is suitable for monitoring and troubleshooting complex machinery and equipment.
For example, you can use to assess the "health" of the cooling system and the release of a car engine.
The photo shows a picture of the brake disk of the car after the trip.
Heated engine (exhaust manifold in the foreground).
Side view of the engine - hot pipes and a hot radiator for cooling the engine are visible.
For comparison, here are thermographic images of Seek Thermal Compact (left) and Compact XR (right).
Table fan
BMW car after the trip.
Further more interesting.
Thermal imaging of Seek Thermal Compact (left), Compact XR (center) and Flir One Pro (right). In this case, XR pulls the clarity by focusing, and Flir - by an additional optical camera.
Flir displays the picture is not very honest. He draws an image based on the results of visible camera images. This may cause an error. Seek with a matrix of 60% more (206 x 156 against 160 x 120 pixels) shows a more “correct" image. Additionally, you can pull out using a variety of palettes.
On Habré you can find many applications of this imager. There is also information about the components of the device ( source ).
Compact size combined with the technical specifications of serious
stationary models - make the Compact thermal imager indispensable for home,
and for professional use. And given the low cost, Seek is the leader of low-end models.
Thermal imager Seek Thermal Compact from July 1 to July 31, 2019 is sold at a special price with a 15% discount: 19 465 p. Use promo code STLeto1 to get a discount.
Source: https://habr.com/ru/post/457808/
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