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Home > FLIR infrared cameras -- a closer look at one of the most popular night vision technologies
May 22, 2007
By: Lynn Bryant
The term FLIR stands for forward looking infrared, and is
used to refer to a thermal imaging camera device or infrared
camera. FLIR infrared cameras can be used to see in total
darkness and in almost any weather condition. They are also
capable of scanning broad areas as opposed to having to stay
focused on a single spot. This makes these thermal imaging
devices a good choice to use aboard aircrafts or in
satellite devices that need to cover larger areas. In this
article, we will briefly explore how this infrared
technology works, and then review some its uses.
An infrared thermal imaging camera can produce viewable
images of invisible infrared energy. Infrared energy is part
of the electromagnetic spectrum, which we perceive as heat,
so it is invisible to the naked eye. Some level of thermal
energy is emitted from all people, objects, and material.
Infrared technology can be used to capture this energy and
convert it into an image that is visible to the human eye.
Because thermal imaging cameras do not technically have
to see the object in order to capture an image of it, they
are perfect for use in dark and adverse weather conditions.
Thermal imaging can successfully penetrate such environments
as smoke, dense fog, snow, extreme darkness, and heavy rain.
Bright lights also will not negatively affect the quality of
the image generated by a FLIR camera device, even if light
is shown directly into the camera itself.
There are numerous uses for FLIR cameras, one of the most
common being military applications. There are however,
several other legitimate uses for this technology. We will
look at some of the more common ones below.
- Used for enhancing satellite imaging -- The
National
Security Agency (NSA) utilizes the infrared FLIR
technology in satellite devices, to monitor activity in
foreign countries. These same infrared equipped
satellites are also used to monitor storm activity and
environmental patterns. The military also has access to
this technology to review potential targets and to
survey perimeter security.
- Used for airborne surveillance -- The
FBI
and the military utilize FLIR technology to equip their
spy planes. These are in turn used to monitor suspected
terrorist or military targets, as well monitor other
suspicious activity. Local law enforcement agencies also
often utilize this technology to search for criminal
suspects, missing persons, and to survey industrial
accidents or automobile crashes. As already mentioned,
FLIR technology is perfect for scanning over the
horizon, so pilots often use thermal imaging devices to
help direct their planes at night or through thick fog.
- Nighttime video surveillance -- Since thermal
imaging technology can be used to capture images in
total darkness, it is also a good solution for nighttime
video surveillance.
As you can see, there is a wide array of practical uses
for this remarkable technology. Thermal imaging technology
has made a significant impact toward improving security both
personal, nationally, and even internationally. It is not
every day you come across a technology that is utilized for
such a broad spectrum of applications.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and contributor
to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your definitive guide to
video surveillance equipment, CCTV cameras and wireless
security systems for home and business.
Also See:
[ Potential misuses
versus benefits of spy digital cameras ]
[ Using hidden
surveillance cameras to counter covert surveillance equipment ]
[ Advantages and
disadvantages of using hidden video cameras ]
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