FLIR Systems launches M-Series
20th November 2009
FLIR Systems is launching a new, revolutionary thermal imaging camera for maritime applications. The M-Series combine a thermal imaging camera with a low light camera. They provid crisp, clear thermal imagery in total darkness, light fog or smoke.
Packaged in a small, ultra-compact gimbal, they are designed for the most demanding maritime applications. They are great tools for night-time navigation, shipboard security, man overboard situations and anti-piracy. The M-Series are available in two different versions, both of which are extremely lightweight and can be installed at any position onboard. Both versions also come equipped with a low light camera:
M-320L: This version is equipped with a Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detector that provides crisp thermal images of 320 x 240 pixels.
M-626L: This version however has a Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detector that produces images of 640 x 480 pixels. This is four times the resolution of the M-320L. It allows you to see the sharpest thermal images on which the smallest detail can be seen.
The camera's vital core is rated IP66 and is well protected against humidity and water. Operating between -25C and +55C, the M-Series hve a built-in heater to defrost its protective window. This apparently ensures a clear lens and good quality infrared images displayed on your monitor, even in extremely cold environments.
The M-Series comes standard with a remote Joystick Control Unit (JCU) to operate the Pan/Tilt. Additional JCUs, which can be used to control the M-Series from different locations on board of a vessel, are optionally available. The JCU is the primary method for control for the M-Series camera. It can be used to move the camera (pan or tilt), electronically zoom the cameras in and out, switch between thermal and visible low light camera, adjust the image quality, and access the on-screen menus. The M-Series control panel is fully sealed for use in a maritime environment. Like the camera itself, it meets IP66 standards.