Frequently Asked Questions

In general, accurate measurements from in infrared camera require more than one pixel often defined as an IFOV (instantaneous field of view). Accuracy specifications provided by infrared camera manufacturers will typically be based on a 3 x 3 cluster of pixels or more but some infrared cameras have very small detector elements that dramatically increase the size of the cluster necessary to support a temperature measurement consistent with the accuracy specification. Be certain your camera is delivering measurements within the accuracy specification by using the manufacturer’s Optics Calculator to define the smallest size for accurate measurement (MFOV or measurement field of view) for a given camera and its optical configuration.

Related Products

Xi 80 LT ETH

940,00€

IR Cameras

In general, our customers will choose the most affordable solution that delivers the information necessary to support the research or process control requirement.
If you know precisely where you want to make a measurement, a pyrometer is typically the most affordable option and will be available in a form factor and configuration that will endure a harsh industrial environment.
For some applications such as thermoforming a sneaker sole, it is important to know the temperature of more than one location on the target. A single spot measurement pyrometer will not simultaneously deliver the temperature in the toe, arch and heel area nor will it deliver the immediate visual understanding of how the process is impacting the temperature variations across the entire target. Pricing of infrared cameras has dropped dramatically in the last decade making it cost effective to leverage temperature data from hundreds or thousands of pixel locations on an infrared image making an IR camera a better solution when multiple measurement points are required.
An IR camera is also the only logical solution when the goal is to send an alert or record a data point when temperature in a given area exceeds a present threshold. A pyrometer is an affordable solution when the user knows precisely where the measurement is needed but it cannot search an area of interest and identify a critical hot spot.

Thermocouples and RTDs can deliver accurate temperature measurements on many materials at an affordable price. They are also more accurate in most instances then remote infrared sensors when measuring shiny metallic surfaces.
However, remote infrared temperature measurement is more frequently deployed in production environments when products are physically moving through different phases in the manufacturing process. Also, many contact sensors will degrade or even melt when measuring temperatures on molten metal, glass or in furnace environments. Remote infrared measurement is also able to deliver accurate measurements on high speed or transient events such as pulsing electronics or high speed production processes like food processing and packaging applications. Finally, remote infrared camera measurement can deliver more accurate measurements on microscopic targets which will actually change in temperature when connected to a contact temperature measurement sensor which will draw heat away from a component with low thermal mass.

Simply put, emissivity is a term that quantifies the efficiency with with any target emits infrared energy. A material with an emittance value of 1.0 is a perfect emitter and ideal for measurement with an infrared sensor or camera. Many targets such as plastics, carbon fiber, painted surfaces, food products, paper and ceramics have very high emissivity and are excellent emitters of infrared energy. Shiny metals have very low emissivity (often less than .1) and are difficult to measure accurately particularly when they are at low or ambient temperature. In general, emissivity is inversely related to reflectance so smooth uncoated metal surfaces tend to reflect temperatures from the surrounding environment yielding innaccute target temperatures.

Add carbon black or high temperature paint to a metal surface and it is transformed from a reflective target with a low emissivity to an emissive target that can be measured accurately with a pyrometer or infrared camera. Electrical tape or foot powder can likewise improve target emissivity dramatically. Adhesive backed Optris high emissivity labels or “dots” can be applied to surfaces with temperatures up to 380 °C and measured with a long wave sensor or IR camera.

A hole or cavity in a metal target can transform a reflective target that cannot be measured accurately to a great source location for temperature data. The emissivity of the cavity area approaches 1 (perfect emitter) when the hole is six times the depth of its diameter. For a detailed explanation of the cavity and wedge effect, see the definition of “cavity effect” on our Lexicon webpage.

Surrogate temperature measurement involves using a readily accessible or easily measured temperature to estimate or infer another temperature that is difficult or impossible to measure directly. This approach is used for process applications where the target of interest has very low emissivity but may be proximate to another target with high emissivity. Consider a die used to shape molten plastic. The steel die has low emissivity and may yield inaccurate temperature measurements with a long wavelength sensor but a measurement of the plastic part immediately after ejection from the die could yield useful information through machine learning that signals a hot spot on the die that is out of specification.

Short wave infrared sensors with a spectral response less than 3 µm are recommended when measuring metal temperatures on low emissivity targets. As a general rule, choose the shortest wavelength sensor with a temperature range specification that matches your target temperature. For example, if your metal target temperature is 250° C or higher, choose the sensor with 1.6 µm spectral response (2ML series sensors in the Optris product line) over the sensors with 2.3 µm spectral response (3M series products in the Optris product line). Lower spectral response sensors are less efficient at detecting low ambient temperature reflections which decreases errors due to low target emissivity. Refer to Plank definition on Lexicon page for more detail on wave length optimization. Also see page 10 in the Optris “Infrared Basics” whitepaper

The Optris emissivity table on pages 34 – 37 of the “Infrared Basics” white paper is a good place to start. It lists emissivity values on hundreds of materials and includes the emissivity for specific wavelength sensors. Emissivity on metal surfaces in your application may vary from those listed in the table based on surface texture, corrosion or weathering effects so it is recommended to measure the emissivity if possible. This is best done by adjusting the emissivity value on the sensor until it matches the accurate measurement made with a contact device or on a high emissivity coated area or cavity as described above.

Most infrared remote measurement equipment choices are driven by the material to be measured. Metal measurements require a different sensor than thin film plastics or other highly emissive materials. Secondary considerations include the temperature range, the distance from and size of the target, and the exposure time afforded to make the measurement. Although content is available on this website to guide decision making on a sensor or IR camera solution, it is not uncommon for us to field questions from a customer that has purchased a sensor not optimized for a measurement application so we encourage dialog (email, chat, or phone) before purchase or delivery of a sensor or camera. Optris commits to an informed response to application questions from engineers trained in infrared measurement applications.

The Optris USA office accepts orders directly from U.S. and Canadian customers but encourages order placement through distributors if they have been involved in pre-order customer support. The Optris website provides pricing and quotation support but does not support e-commerce order placement. The office is open business hours in the east coast time zone for order placement. Again, pre-order consultation with an Optris applications engineer is suggested for first time orders to insure the sensor or IR camera addresses application requirements.

The Optris CThot LT pyrometer is designed to deliver accurate temperature measurements in ambient temperatures up to 250 °C. This sensor is often deployed in heat treating furnace or drying applications where it is not practical to support feed lines for water cooling.

Infrared cameras will typically not deliver accurate temperature measurements in ambient temperature environments beyond 50 °C due to the influence of high ambient temperature on the microbolometer sensor used most commonly in cameras made for process control environments. Optris infrared cameras are supported with cooled housings that protect the camera and enable accurate temperature measurements in high temperature environments up to 315 °C.

High ambient temperature can often be moderated by mounting the thermal imager further away from process environment heat sources. IR cameras can be supplied with narrow field of view (high magnification) optics that will deliver accurate measurements from afar provided there is line-of-site to the target to be measured. Use the Optris Optics Calculator to determine the spot size that can be measured accurately with various optic options.

Infrared cameras are widely used in surveillance and other night vision applications to identify security threats, find missing persons, fire management or as an aid in navigation. These cameras are not typically calibrated for accurate temperature measurement. A “radiometric IR camera” has been designed and calibrated with the specific purpose to measure temperature taking into consideration thermal drift, ambient temperature fluctuations and other factors that impact accurate temperature measurement. All Optris cameras are “radiometric” and incorporate special design and calibration protocols to maximize temperature measurement accuracy.

One of the key advantages of a calibrated infrared camera over a single spot infrared sensor (pyrometer) is the ability to measure thousands of points on a target at the frame rate of the camera. This capability allows the camera to identify the hottest spot in an area versus only a single spot with a pyrometer which is important in many production applications where it is impossible to know where the hottest temperature is likely to occur on a production part or process. Many Optris IR cameras include an “auto hotspot” mode that delivers the hottest temperature in the camera’s field of view without any additional computer based thermal image processing. The camera behaves like a spot pyrometer in delivering a single measurement output that can be connected to a PLC but the value communicates the hottest spot on the target instead of a best guess on a hot spot based on the alignment of a spot pyrometer.

The Optris CS LT is the most easy to use and affordable infrared thermometer delivering accurate temperature measurements from -40 °C to 1030° C. It can be set for any emissivity value and includes voltage, thermocouple K and alarm outputs.

Related Products

CS LT

From 95,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

First, the CS micro is less than 1/2 the length of the CS LT which allows it to fit in the small areas supporting space efficient product design for OEM applications. Second, the unique CS micro design positions vulnerable electronics in the cable away from the heat source which allows it to deliver accurate measurements in temperatures up to 180 °C compared to 80 °C for the CS LT. Finally, it is available with optic options for small spot size measurement and short wave detector options for metal temperature measurements.

If the sensor or IR camera has a long wavelength spectral response that overlaps with the 10.6 µm wavelength of the CO2 laser, it will most likely be damaged beyond repair. Optris produces a wide variety of pyrometers with shorter wavelength response that are perfectly safe to use on targets irradiated with a CO2 laser. Optris also makes specially filtered long wavelength cameras with CO2 filters that completely attenuate signal from the CO2 laser making it safe to measure temperatures on targets in CO2 laser environments.

Particles from a production environment can impact the accuracy of remote infrared temperature measurement in two ways. First, particles can coat the sensor or camera optics attenuating the infrared signal emitted from the target to be measured. This will typically result in a lower temperature measurement particularly when humidity combines with dust particles. In this scenario, a purging accessory is highly recommended. Heat Radiation can also be attenuated by particles in the optical path between the sensor and the target. The degree of signal loss depends on the density of the particles and the distance from sensor or camera to the target. In this scenario, a ratio sensor is often used which will still produce accurate temperature measurements even when the signal is attenuated by up to 90%.

Optris IR cameras are ideal for early fire detection applications because they are able to monitor a large area for any temperature that exceed a preset threshold. Optris thermal cameras are often deployed for indoor applications to detect fire on wood products that can ignite from planing, cutting or chipping machinery. Thermal cameras can be optimized with the ideal optics based on the area to be monitored and the mounting location. Outdoor applications such as fire detection in utility environments can be supported in the same way with enclosure accessories that protect the cameras from the elements. Optris IR cameras have alarming capabilities that communicate the alarm condition with industry standard voltage or current outputs.

There are several pyrometer options available in the Optris line up with short wavelength response optimal for detecting infrared radiation transmitted through a quartz window which will attenuate roughly 50% of the IR signal at 3.5 µm. The IR signal is not detectable by any infrared sensor with a wavelength response longer than 4.5 µm so avoid the use of any sensor responsive in the longer wavelengths unless you are interested in measurement the temperature of the quartz window.
Consider Optris 1M, 2M or 3M series pyrometers depending on the temperature range of your sample. Also, make sure the spot size measured by the sensor is smaller than the diameter of the target to be measured using the Optris Optics Calculator. Close focus optics are available on some sensors that decrease the spot size for measurement of small targets. For very small targets like filaments, it may be necessary to use a short wave IR camera (PI05M, PI08M, or PI1M) which leverage small pixel size to make an accurate measurement.

Drywall, Sheetrock, or Gypsum board are ideal materials for remote infrared temperature measurement because they have very high emissivity. Voids in drywall can be easily detected during the manufacturing process, because the temperature difference between an area filled with plaster and area void of plaster is often several degrees C. Some integrators have developed custom solutions that integrate infrared camera systems together with process control equipment for quality control and/documentation purposes.

To implement an IR camera-based solution for automating the measurement of internal temperatures of food products after they pass through a freezer in your factory, you would need to establish a correlation between external surface temperatures measured by the IR camera and the internal temperatures of the products. Since IR cameras measure surface temperatures and cannot directly see the internal temperature, you must use a contact probe to measure the internal temperature of each product type and record the ideal internal temperature. Then, correlate these internal temperatures with the corresponding external temperatures detected by the IR camera, similar to how emissivity verification is done using a thermocouple on the surface of lustrous metals. This calibration process would need to be performed for each product type to ensure accuracy, as product properties may vary. While this calibration step may be time-consuming and less efficient, it is essential to verify that the external temperature readings from the IR camera reliably reflect the internal temperatures, ensuring accurate and automated monitoring of the food products. Once the correlation is established, the IR camera can be used to monitor surface temperatures in real-time, providing a non-invasive method to infer internal temperatures based on the pre-determined relationship.

No order may be cancelled or changed by the buyer, except by the seller’s express written consent, which may be conditioned upon a cancellation fee. Optris products are not sold for customer testing or “Try-outs”.

It is the responsibility of the customer to fully research the IR sensor or IR camera for application feasibility, taking into account target emissivity, distance to target, and other environmental factors that may influence the accuracy of temperature measurements. Pre-purchase factory support is available to address.

Yes, for imaging a 1mm laser spot with the PI-05M camera at a 100mm working distance, the wide-angle lens provides a 100µm IFOV. However, using a 27° lens would achieve a better spatial resolution with a 68µm IFOV and 271µm MFOV, making it a superior option for this application.

A thermal vision system, such as the Xi 410 camera with a 53° x 31° lens, can be implemented to measure the temperature and width of a paste-like substance (resembling pancake batter) continuously poured on a paper line moving at 150-200 FPM. Positioned 3 m above the line with a 183 cm wide field of view, the camera supports Ethernet/EthernetIP for integration with a PLC to automate head adjustments and changes, reducing operator error. The system’s license-free software allows full user control to set temperature-based width measurement thresholds.

The CSmicro LT15 sensor has a standard scaling of 0-350°C at 4-20mA, where 4mA corresponds to 0°C and 20mA corresponds to 350°C. To convert an mA value to Celsius, use linear interpolation: °C = [(mA – 4) / (20 – 4)] × 350.

Accurate temperature measurements in all phases of a forging operation are important to insure quality in the final products. Extracting accurate temperature measurements from low emissivity metal targets in a forging operation using remote infrared temperature measurement can be difficult with long wave infrared cameras and pyrometers sold frequently into industrial applications. For the most accurate measurements, chose pyrometers or infrared cameras with short wave detector response between 500 nm and 2.5 µm . Temperature measurements in all phases of a forging operation can vary from 65 °C to 1370 °C so it is important to optimize the sensor selection with typical target temperatures choosing the shortest wavelength sensor with a temperature range specification that matches your target temperature. For high temperatures between  500 °C and 3500 °C choose a pyrometer in the Optris product line with the “1M” product name extension with a spectral response of 1.0 µm. For lower temperatures from 50 °C to 1800 °C chose an Optris product with the “3M” product name extension with a spectral response of 2.3 µm. We recommend a short discussion with an Optris applications engineer or distribution partner to confirm your product selection.

The Optris PI 640i Infrared camera with microscope optics is recommended for analyzing temperature changes on small packaged electronic components. The PI640i can track temperature changes on devices as small as 8 µm with accurate measurements delivered on targets as small as 32 µm when equipped with the MO2X infrared microscope optic. When identifying PCB targets to measure, it is important to identify high emissivity (non-metal) targets on your device that will optimize temperature measurement accuracy. Also consider equipping the camera with a larger field of view optic (with optic specific calibration) which enables the camera to produce thermal images and analysis on standard size full printed circuit boards.

Sensor response time is important to consider when making remote infrared temperature measurements on moving targets. At 183 m/min, the belt moves 25.4 cm per second so to capture a 12.7 mm measurement every .1 seconds, the response time would need to be <50 ms. The best suited pyrometer for this application would a CT Laser LTF equipped with a CF4 close up optic. This sensor has a 9ms response time and is compatible with the Industrial Air Purge Collar accessory (ACCTLAP) that will prevent product dust from collecting on the optic and attenuating the IR signal from the target.
Keep in mind that although Lithium ore will not ignite under most conditions, metallic lithium or lithium powder is likely to ignite at temperature over 175 °C. It is a good practice to monitor bearing housing temperatures on conveyor systems which may signal a hot bearing about to fail. Many mining operations deploy thermal cameras instead of spot sensors which cover a broader area and are capable of identifying the hottest spot in the camera field of view.

If you are using the PIX connect software go to “Tools” → “Layout” → “Standard Layout”. Check trouble shooting document in the PIX connect documentation folder. “Frame timeout” is an indicator for network issues.

See technical note “Network Requirements” under Downloads below.

You can increase the accuracy of IR cameras with an additional black body in the background. The accuracy depends also on the additional calibration of the camera for the special required and to measured temperature range.

Yes, objects moving at 3000 RPM (50 Hz) can indeed be measured. The optris PI 640 IR camera has a frame rate of 125 Hz @ 640 x 120 pixels and the optris PI 400i has a frame rate of 80 Hz @ 382 x 288 pixels

We offer the following optics (Field of View) for the Xi 400:

18° x 14° (f = 20)
29° x 22° (f = 12.7)
53° x 38° (f = 7.7)
80° x 54° (f = 5.7)

In principle, the focus is infinite. However, for precise measurement, a pixel grid of at least 3×3 is required.

You can always use our Calculator app to determine your exact measuring field.

Related Products

Xi 400 LT USB

From 1.950,00€

IR Cameras

When using the Xi 410 camera, an important additional setting must be made for autonomous operation. When all the configurations have been made, it is important to write them to the device. This is done in the menu under Devices and Set configuration to device. See also the Xi operators manual, page 80.

Within the PIX Connect software you can create as many measurement fields as you like and link each one with an alarm (so you get an alarm message in the software). On the hardware side you can link up to 9 alarm systems to the software with our industrial process interface (PIF). Addition: In autonomous mode only 3 outputs are available.

You can use the Web Server function to show the complete IR image or also the complete PIX Connect screen on a web browser. You can find this function under the menu: “Tools” → “Configuration” → “External Communication”. Activate the item “Web server”. For more information regarding the Web Server function / setup please have a look to the PIX Connect manual (Web Server, Chapter 2.6.3)

The laser can be activated/ deactivated via the programming keys on the unit or via the software. If the laser is activated a yellow LED will shine (beside temperature PIF display). At ambient temperatures >50 °C inside the electronic box the laser will switch off automatically.

In this case, the exact measurement situation must be considered! Measuring the water directly through the PTFE material is only possible if it is very thin (<200 µm), which is not a realistic scenario. The easiest way would be to measure the surface of the PTFE with one of our LT devices. Otherwise, our LT devices can also be used to measure the water directly, if possible. For example, CTfast LT or CT LT could be used.

The device can be repaired in our service department. If you bought it from one of our distribution partners please send it to them.

Yes, you can connect this sensor directly to an Arduino. In UART mode, you can use the TX and RX pins, and the RX pin is supported.

Related Products

CS LT

From 95,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

You can request data by sending 0x01, but make sure to set up the sensor using the CompactConnect software on a PC beforehand. Burst mode is also available if you want to receive data continuously without needing to request it. As for voltage levels, 3.3V is recommended, but it will work with 5V as well.

Related Products

CS LT

From 95,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

For the UART communication on the RX line only the voltage level of 3.3 V should be used. There is basically no risk of damage if a higher voltage level is used but it will influence the internal referencing and therefore the temperature reading.

Related Products

CS LT

From 95,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

The reason for the air purge input of the cooling jackets is to clean the lens at any time and also to cool the front of the lens with the air. The output of the air is in front of the lens. There is a small gap where the air comes out.

Yes, it’s possible. We recommend water as the cooling capacity is much better. Using air limits the max. ambient temeperature of the Cooling Jacket to ~ 100 °C. The internal device temperature should be monitored to avoid any damage due to insufficient cooling capacity.

The quantity of connected PI cameras with the USB server depends on the maximum speed of the camera type. See the connection possibility at the following table “Connection variants USB server” (Quickstart guide PDF, page 1): https://optris.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ACPIUSBSGB-QSG-E2023-05-C.pdf

Use black oven paint instead! It has an emissivity of 0.95.

The thread can be used to connect any filter. Please be aware that this will probably influence the measurement accuracy as the camera is calibrated. The usage of protective windows can be compensated by changing the transmissivity value in the PIX Connect Software. Reference measurements with and without opitcal filters are strongly recommended.

The water flows through the entire cylinder.

The water flow rate is approx. 1-5l/ min. We recommend not to exceed a water flow of 5l/ min. In addition, the cooling water temperature should not exceed 30°C.

That depends on the application and the installation situation. In general a tilting angle of max. 40° for non metal surfaces and 20° for metal surfaces is recommended.

There is also a corresponding tutorial video for the Xi 410. You can find it here:

The Xi 410 and the Xi 400 have the same tube length and a different tube length to the Xi 80, which is why the problem you describe occurs.

You can create with the software PIX Connect a temperature profile where you can see the temperature distribution on the line. You can also bind in an automatic way some measure areas on the temperature profile line. (See menu: “Configuration” → “Temp Profiles” → “Bind measure areas to profile”.)

You can use the “Event Grabber” mode to detect fast moving objects. In a created trigger area in the image , the fast moving object will be recognized and it will be shown in an additional window in the PIX Connect software as snapshot. You can find all information regarding the “Event Grabber” mode in the PIX Connect manual (page 99). You can also open the layout “Event Grabber” in the software PIXConnect. See the menu TOOLS → LAYOUT → Event-Grabber

The profile lines can be used to add measurement areas (max. 20) or to save them directly containing the coordinate and temperature information. For a detailed description please read the PIX Connect manual.

More information about the export possibilities are found in the PIX Connect manual.

The temperature diagram displays all temperatures which are in the selected temperature range of the IR camera. The time is always displayed in seconds. The time resolution can be changed in the configuration menu. For more information read the PIX Connect manual.

No, that cannot be done simultaneously. The CSV files can be created afterward, either by using the RAVI Converter or by saving them in PIX Connect. You can save the temperature-time diagram at any time or take snapshots of the entire IR image or the temperature profile.

If you want to record data during the process, it can be done either via an analog signal into a data logger or by continuously querying the COM port using serial communication.

It’s important to select the correct separator when importing or opening data generated by Excel. Depending on the operating system this might differ. The separator can be changed in the PIX Connect software. Please read the manual.

The profile lines can be used to add measurement areas (max. 20) or to save them directly containing the coordinate and temperature information. For a detailed description please read the PIX Connect manual.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to adjust the time interval for the data. You have only the possibility to delete the not needed lines (times) manually in the *dat file.

The resolution regarding the camera image of the recorded RAVI file will not change , if you change the speed of the replayed video. But the temporal resolution changes if you speed up the video. There is currently no possibility to employ a video codec instead of storing the camera feed as uncompressed YUV frames. With the software PIXConnect you can only do a capture screen and as result you will have a WMV file. Another possibility is to use the Connect SDK to transfer all pixels of the live image as temperature- ,color- or as ADUs matrix to your own programmed software. You can handle the data for yourself. You can find the Connect SDK in the software PIXConnect.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to retrieve the time information from the exported .dat file header direct from the RAVI file.

The temperature-time diagram can be exported from the RAVi.

To do this, the video file must be run through completely once in PIX connect. Then you should find the item “Save Temp/Time diagram data” under the menu item “File”, which provides you with exactly this functionality.

Tray to move the Optimization slider in the menu “TOOLS” → “CONFIGURATION” → tab “GENERAL” of the PIX Connect software from “Quality” to “Performance”

The alarm signal (or the temperature value) can be output as an analogue value via the analogue output. This can be connected to a PLC controller, a siren or an alarm light.

The standard and the industrial PIF for the Xi400 need an external power supply. The PIF is recognized when the PIX Connect software is initializing the camera. The camera needs to be reinitialized by the software if the PIF is connected while the camera is already running.

Related Products

Xi 400 LT USB

From 1.950,00€

IR Cameras

Yes, it is possible to enlarge a specific area (digital zoom) and then save it as a snapshot. To do this, you have to go to the PIX Connect software under “Configurations” → “IR Image arranging” → “Zoom”.

Pick rectangle for user defined zoom. If the desired area is visible, an image can be created using the normal screenshot function.

Yes, you can do this via “File” → “Save temp/time diagram data”. But the video should be playing from the beginning to the end when you select to “Save”.

Be sure that you have all the time an online internet connection. Maybe your firewall is blocking the download and is blocking the installation of the firmware. Be also sure that you have administration rights on your PC.

Yes, it is also possible to trigger snapshots by using a code (command) via the serial communication. The command is: “!Snapshot”.

You can find the complete command list after the installation of the software PIX Connect on your PC here:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Optris GmbH\PIX Connect\documentation\Manuals\Serial Communication Description-2018-05.pdf.

Alternative you can also open the command list via the menu “HELP” → “Documentation” →  “Manuals” → “Serial Communication Description-2018-05.pdf” in the PIX Connect software.

We are always open to suggestions for improvement and optimization just contact us on +4930500197-0 or [email protected]

You can find all software downloads for the PIX Connect, CompactConnect and CompactPlus Connect software here: https://optris.com/software/compactplus-connect/

This depends on the type of camera you are using. PI cameras have a manual focus, so you would have to rotate the lens by hand. The Xi cameras have a motorized focus that can be changed via software, but is not supported in the above sample program.

Usually, the web server function works on any smartphone. It is important that the smartphone is connected to the same WiFi network as the PC or laptop with the PIX Connect software installed.

No. The factory test certificate is only valid with the original and complete pyrometer components ordered.
Factory test certificates can be issued for subsequently ordered replacement measuring heads and electronics boxes.

Related Products

CTi LT

From 250,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

No. As soon as the OnBoard USB port is used, the interface terminates the connection to the pyrometer and no more signals can be received or transmitted via the interface.
A connection between the interface and pyrometer is indicated by the illuminated LED I3. The internal pyrometer firmware reactivates the interface when the on-board USB connection is no longer used.

Related Products

CTi LT

From 250,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

No. You can use both connections at the same time.

Related Products

CTi LT

From 250,00€

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers

In the installation folder of the CompactPlus Connect software, the USB driver is located in the folder … DriversIR Adapter Driver.
Please close the software before installing the driver.

The Micro Epsilon part number you referenced is a product manufactured by Optris and resold to Micro Epsilon who was a former Optris distribution partner. The Optris product is our CTlaser Fast LT and is sold under part number OPTCTLLTFSFCB15H. It includes the diverging lasers that identify the location and size of the spot measured by the pyrometer. Unlike many long wavelength sensors, it has a fast response time of 9 milliseconds which enables its use for dynamic temperature measurements of fast moving products or processes.

This is a perfect application for a calibrated infrared camera that can detect temperatures over a large area such as your paint spray booth. The IR camera makes use of thousands of pixels all of which detect temperature. It is common in this application to set an alarm temperature threshold that will send out a signal when these temperature thresholds are exceeded in any pixel in the thermal camera field of view. The infrared camera’s resolution and the optics chosen for that camera will dictate the spot size of each pixel from a given distance so it is important to consider the mounting location, the dimensions of the area to be monitored and the size of a typical ignition event.

Accurate distance measurement is entirely dependant on the size of the target to be measured which is why temperature measurement specifications relating to distance need to account for target spot size. The most common specification for communicating distance measurement capability is the Spot Size Ratio which is defined for most all infrared pyrometers. This specification is also often referred as the Optical Resolution. For example, if a sensor has spot size ratio of 15:1, this sensor can measure a target of 1 centimeter (or inches, feet, meters, etc.) from a distance of 15 centimeters. If the spot to be measured is smaller than the spot computed by the spot size measurement, the sensor will deliver a measurement that averages the hot spot and surrounding area.
For infrared cameras, the distance for accurate measurement is a function of the infrared camera resolution, detector pitch and the optics deployed on the camera. Infrared cameras with high resolution detectors and telephoto optics generally deliver the most accurate measurements of distant targets. Distance measurement performance can be easily derived using the optics calculator on the Optris website which will take into account the infrared camera resolution and optic combination.

Specified accuracy on remote infrared temperature instruments typically vary from 1% (of target temperature) or 1° C for pyrometers to 2% or 2 C for infrared cameras. Specially equipped IR camera systems with an available black body temperature reference source can achieve 1% accuracy. It is important to note that accuracy with remote infrared temperature measurement is more heavily influenced by the emissivity of the target material and the ability to quantify this emissivity than by the calibration accuracy of the instrument. Other factors such as dust or other attenuating elements in the line of site to the target can also have significant impacts on measurement accuracy. Also important for measurement accuracy is properly matching the spot size measurement requirement with the infrared instrument and optics so that the target to be measured has a spot size within the instruments Measurement Field of View (MFOV).

This question frequently surfaces from customers interested in measurements of microelectronics. Because infrared cameras produce measurements leveraging infrared detector arrays with thousands of pixels, they are most capable of making temperature measurements of very small targets. Unfortunately, many manufacturers of infrared cameras will communicate only the spot size of the infrared pixels which may report temperature changes but these pixels may be too small to meet the camera’s accuracy specifications. To draw a distinction between pixel size and smallest accurate temperature measurement, Optris specifies both pixel size or instantaneous view (IFOV) and measurement field of view (MFOV). The MFOV is based on testing that determines the number of pixels necessary with any given camera to report a temperature measurement that conforms to the camera accuracy specification. For example, the Optris PI640i with MO2X optics delivers a spot size (IFOV) of 8 µm but can accurately measure (MFOV) a target of 32 µm.
For other applications with a larger spot size, a pyrometer with close focus optics may support the application requirement. Check the Optris Spot Size Calculator to find spot size and (MFOV) size specifications on both pyrometers and IR cameras

Think of distance measurement with an IR sensor as if you are aiming a flashlight at a wall. In general, if you are close to the target, the flashlight beam concentrates on a small area. As you stand back from the wall, the beam covers a much larger area. Refer to the spot size measurement specification described above (How far can we measure?) and/or the Optris Calculator App to make sure the spot size of your target can be measured by the infrared sensor selected. Also note that a wide variety of close up optics are available for many Optris sensors to optimize spot size measurement performance from a variety of distances.

The difference between “calibrated” and “validated for specification accuracy” is often misunderstood. When a sensor is “calibrated”, it is taken through the same procedure applied during the manufacturing process which involves exposing the sensor to a variety of temperatures emitted from black body reference sources that are traceable to government reference sources. “Validating for specification accuracy” involves checking the pyrometer or infrared camera to see if readings are within specified accuracies. This can be done on site comparing a measurement made with an accurate contact measurement probe with the measurement made with the infrared sensor on the same high emissivity surface. Alternately, it can be returned to the manufacturer for a calibration check against traceable reference sources. In general, it is important to check measurement accuracy at least once a year particularly when the pyrometer or infrared camera is in an environment where dust or dirt can coat the sensor optics attenuating the infrared signal.

Both infrared cameras and infrared sensors are calibrated using government standard reference sources set at a specific distance from the sensor. Measurements are taken when the sensor or camera is optimized for focus on these reference sources. Measurements will not be within published specification accuracy if instruments are not properly focused.

In general, it is best practice to keep the sensor (or ir camera) perpendicular with respect to the target to be measured but this is not a rigid requirement particularly when the target has a high emissivity. The emissivity of the target will begin to decrease and measurement accuracy will be compromised when the measurement angle exceeds 60 degrees off angle from perpendicular. A first surface mirror can be used when mounting dynamics will not support access to the target.

Wavelength choice in a pyrometer or an infrared camera is very much driven by the material to be measured. In general, high emissivity materials (most non-metals) especially those at temperatures below 200 °C are best measured with a long wavelength infrared sensor. Metal targets, especially those at temperatures above ambient temperature are most accurately measured with short wavelength sensors set to the appropriate emissivity. Special materials like thin film plastics, glass or special applications such as measurements in a combustion chamber are best measured with sensors tuned specifically to wavelengths optimized for these applications. For recommendations on optimized wavelengths for various applications review the “recommended products” in the applications tab on the Optris website.

Often, a sensor is chosen because it has the optimal spot size to accurately measure the target of interest. If a pyrometer is perfectly addresses the spot size requirement but is in an environment that exceeds the operating ambient specification, an alternate sensor should be considered when water cooling is not practical. In the pyrometer product line, the Optris CT Hot often addresses the ambient temperature challenge with its ability to operate in temperatures up to 250°C. The CT Ratio pyrometer sensor head can operate in an ambient environment 315°C without cooling and is often the best solution for temperature measurements in high ambient conditions. If neither of these sensors meets the spot size measurement requirement, a small infrared camera mounted further from the target with the optimized optics is often the best choice. With thousands of pixels, the IR camera can resolve a smaller spot size from further distances than a pyrometers. Costs for small fixed mount industrial infrared cameras are now in the price range of some industrial pyrometers making them a suitable replacement for many applications traditionally supported with pyrometer temperature measurements.

Both infrared cameras and infrared temperature sensors (pyrometers) are used to monitor temperatures in thin film vapor deposition processes. Infrared cameras are best for monitoring the temperature and thermal uniformity of the substrate due to their ability to cover the entire substrate with thousands of pixels each with the ability to deliver temperature information. Optics can be optimized to deliver the best resolution of the substrate from a given distance.
Some users will compliment the deployment of infrared cameras with pyrometers that monitor a spot temperature of the cathode sputtering target which assures adhesion to the substrate when optimized.

The Optris CT Hot often addresses the ambient temperature challenge with its ability to operate in temperatures up to 250°C. The CT Ratio pyrometer sensor head can operate in an ambient environment 315°C without cooling and is often the best solution for temperature measurements in high ambient conditions. If water cooling is an option, the CT Laser product line offers an extensive variety of close up optics if the plastic part to be tested is small and requires a small spot size pyrometer. The CT Laser cooled pyrometer housing has a diameter of 48 mm which is small enough for some testing chambers.
Plastics can be partially transmissive in the infrared region which will result in a temperature measurement combining thermal energy travelling through the plastic from an object on the back side of the measured surface. However, this phenomenon is not an issue when plastic to be measured is more than 250 µm. Special wavelength sensors with spectral response matching infrared absorbtion spectra of common plastics are available for thin film plastic measurements.

The spectral response of the pyrometer is an important parameter for accurate Infrared temperature measurement of thin film plastics. Most thin film plastics with thickness less than 250 µm will transmit infrared energy resulting in temperature measurements heavily influeanced by heat sources on the non-measurement side of the film. However, polyethylene and many other plastics (polypropylene, cellophane polystyrene, etc.) absorb infared energy at 3.43 µm which render them opaque to infrared sensors responsive in this same wavelength. The Optris CT P3 with spectral response at 3.43 µm is idealy suited for thin film plastic temperature measurement. Other plastics such as flouroplastics, nylon and polyester have more dominent Ester band infrared absorbtion at 7.95 µm and are most accurately measured with the CT or CT Laser P7.

Dust or vapors can coat the infrared sensor optics reducing or attenuating the infrared signal necessary for the pyrometer to produce an accurate temperature measurement. To minimize partical buildup on optics, first make sure you have considered a pyrometer with optical performance that allows for positioning the sensor away from contaminating elements. Second, make sure the pyrometer is equipped with an air purging accessory that prevents particles and vapors from accumulating on the sensor optics. If conditions still result in some buildup on the pyrometer optics, consider a ratio sensor which uses dual wavelengs and a ratio temperature computation that can deliver accurate measurements even when the optics are attenuated by over 90%. These sensors are more expensive but often worth the investment when environmental conditions continue to compromise accurate temperature measurements.

Many customer choose and Optris pyrometer such as the CT Laser that incorporates diverging lasors that precisely target the spot to be measured. In addition to locating the measurement spot on the target, the diverging lasers define the precise area to be measured. Some applications have space requirements that necessitate a smaller sensor such as the Optris CS Micro. The M12 laser sighting tool can be used with the CSmicro mounting bracket and removed after the sensor has been locked in on the temperature measurement target.

Your question signals you have identified the infrared technology most likely to deliver accurate measurements in an environment with constantly changing transmission characteristics.

The bit depth of our cameras is 14 bit
The data has 16 bit but only 14 bit are used for the Temperature Data and the other 2 bits are not used

As a rule, we do not disclose any information about raw data.
The only option is to use the Connect SDK to output the camera’s ADU values as a matrix. However, these ADU values are uninterpreted.
The cameras can send the temperature information and the color information to another commercial software for processing.

No, the way the image is displayed does not change
You can see this in the software examples provided with the PIXConnect software (See the menu HELP => Connect SDK => Examples)
Under the configuration menu => External communication => ConnectSDK
you can change the mode from “Temperatures” to “ADU”.
This has no influence on the displayed image.

Right-click on the IR image to open the context menu. Here you will find the menu item “Temperature Unit.”
There you have the option to switch from Fahrenheit to Celsius

Images

For steelmaking processes we recommend short-wave infrared cameras as the PI 1M camera, PI 08M camera, PI05M camera, Xi1M camera or Xi 05M camera.
Use the lowest wavelength / spectral range as possible!

No, the actual temperature accuracy could not be further improved by information on surface emissivity. This is for the PI640i camera ±2 °C or ±2 %.
However, accurate surface information regarding the emissivity is necessary in order to measure the correct temperature based on the reflection ratio on the surface to be measured. An incorrectly set emissivity results in a temperature deviation.

For this application you can use an LT sensor
of the CTi series which works on a wavelength of 8-14 µm.
Optris provides for this several solutions:

– There is a KF40 flange for all CTi LT sensors available:
KF40 flange for CTiLT with Ge window (up to 10-7 mbar)

– There is a pyrometer available with a vacuum flange KF 40 for
the CTi / CT series with a cable length >= 3m
The customer must define the position of the KF 40 flange
on the cable
A helium leackage rate <1×10-6 mbar*l*s-1 is also included

– There is also a CTi sensor with new head design available
The sensor head is sealed on the back side with epoxy for use in vacuum applications; also for CTi fast

– Regarding the vacuum conditions inside the vacuum chamber
it is maybe also possible to use an IR camera (PI LT / Xi LT camera)
inside the chamber.
For this Optris provides an USB connector flange:
KF40 USB-A-A vacuum feed through for PI and Xi series
(up to 10-6 mbar)

The OTC SDK does include only libraries for cameras.

=> Check in the WINDOWS device manager that the USB driver was recognized correctly
=> Go to Settings/Camera or via search and type in „camera“
and then activate the button “allow apps to access your camera”. Due to an Windows Update this could happen.

=> If you have a black screen on PIXConnect software, this could be because of the bad performance of your graphic chip and hardware acceleration. Regarding this case, reduce the screen resolution of the monitor.
=> Check the USB cable and the connector pins on camera and PC side
=> Try another USB port of the PC or another PC (if available) to check that the USB cable has no issue
=> Maybe the USB power supply of the camera supporting PC is too low
=> Using a too long USB cable / a not provided USB cable by Optris or an USB extension cable could be the reason that the software PIXConnect does not get any signal
=> Use a PC where you have administrative rights or check with your local administrator

Images

No PIXConnect cannot run on an IOS (Apple) system

– Regaring the black display in the software PIXConnect , this could be caused by a bad performance of your graphic chip e.g. the hardware acceleration. Reduce the screen resolution of your monitor or if possible reduce the hardware acceleration
– Set the Optimization to “Performance” and remove the hook from “High Speed temperature calculation”

Images

Optris delivers with the PROFIBUS kit a PROFIBUS connector
at the electronic box which has 5 pins.
The M12 device socket is coded inversely and has 5 pins. Pin 1 and pin 2 transmit the signals of the Profibus. These must under no circumstances be exchanged, otherwise the communication is disturbed. Pin 2 transmits +5 VDC and Pin 4 transmits GND for the active terminator.
These may under no circumstances be used for other functions as this may destroy the device. Pin 5 has no function.
The thread carries the shield, which is capacitive connected to the base of the housing box.

#1 : “A” for Data Minus,
#2 : “VCC” for VP,
#3 : “B” for Data Plus,
#4 : “GND” for DGND
#5 : not used

– For this you need a PROFIBUS certified T-piece and an end resistor
This M12 T-piece is used to connect PROFIBUS devices

– Here you can find the information regarding the end resistor:
Technical data:
Number of poles: 5
Through resistance ≤ 5 mΩ
Insulation resistance ≥ 100 MΩ
General characteristics: Coding B – inverse

Images

=> Go to Settings/Camera or via search and type in „camera“ and then activate the button “allow apps to access your camera”.

Images

– Yes , the PI 640i camera supports via the software PIXConnect external triggering to record an image.
– You can use an analog input or a digital input signal via the Process Interface (PIF) to trigger the camera.
– In the configuration menu, PIF setting menu , you can set the voltage signal for the analog signal to trigger the camera or you can set the edges conditions for the digital signal to trigger the camera.
– Another possibility to trigger a snapshot via a controller’s digital output is to use the serial communication (if available at the PLC) . For this you can use the command list of the serial communication to send the command to take a snapshot.

The IR cameras do not provide any raw thermal image data access. You get the temperature data via the SDK (OTC SDK) from the camera to your process.

Optris provides different types of IR cameras with different wavelengths

Here you can find an overview of the different camera types regarding the spectral ranges, the typical frame rates and the interface versions (USB or Ethernet (ETH)):

Long-wave (LWIR) cameras (spectral range 8-14 µm):

PI400i LT (80Hz, switchable to 27 Hz),

PI450i LT (80Hz, switchable to 27 Hz),

PI640i LT (32 Hz (640×120 px @ 125 Hz),

Xi80 LT ETH (50 Hz),

Xi400 LT USB (80Hz, switchable to 27 Hz),

Xi410 LT ETH (25 Hz (connected via Ethernet,4 Hz connected via USB)

Xi640 LT USB (32 Hz)

Long-wave (LWIR) cameras (spectral range 7,9 µm):

PI450iG7 (80Hz, switchable to 27 Hz),

PI640iG7 (32 Hz (640×120 px @ 125 Hz),

Middle-wave (MWIR) cameras (spectral range 3,9 µm):

Xi320MT (30 Hz)

Short-wave (SWIR) cameras:

PI1M (0,85-1,1µm) ,

32 Hz (382×268 px @ 80 Hz, (switchable to 27 Hz)/ 72×56 px/ 764×8 px @1 kHz)) ,

PI08M (780-820 µm) ,

32 Hz (382×268 px @ 80 Hz, (switchable to 27 Hz)/ 72×56 px/ 764×8 px @1 kHz)) ,

PI05M (500-540 µm) ,

764×480 px @ 32 Hz/ 382×288 px @ 80 Hz

(switchable to 27 Hz)/ 72×56 px/ 764×8 px @ 1 kHz

Xi1M ETH (0,85-1,1µm) ,

396×300 px, 20 Hz, 396×8 px (auton.: 396×1 px), 500 Hz, 0,85-1,1 μm, Ethernet, USB 2.0 (only 20 Hz), Auton. operation

Xi05M ETH (500-540 µm) ,

396×300 px, 20 Hz, 396×8 px (auton.: 396×1 px), 500 Hz, 500-540 nm, Ethernet, USB 2.0 (only 20 Hz), Auton. operation

The following digital interface kits are for the Xi 80/ 410/ 05M/ 08M cameras available:

• Ethernet TCP/IP / Modbus TCP interface kit
• EtherNet/IP interface kit
• Profinet kit

– In general , the master requests data from the slaves.
– For this Optris provides command lists for the different types of pyrometers and IR cameras.
– For the pyrometers a binary communication is used
– For the IR cameras an ASCII communication is used
– For some types of sensors, it is also possible to set a burst mode. With this mode the cameras are sending all the time the string of requested data.

There is currently no setting in the IR mobile app to change the measurement interval, sampling rate or to update it frequency for the pyrometers and cameras.

Yes, this is possible. For using the software CompactPlusConnect or CompactConnect (depends on which type of pyrometers you are using) you have to create different instances of the software. You can connect two pyrometers via the USB ports. It is also possible to connect the two pyrometers with a RS485 interface. You can connect the first pyrometer via the provided RS485-USB adapter to the PC.

• Yes , the CTi LT pyrometer heads is also vacuum-compatible.
• There is a CTi LThot sensor with new head design available
  The sensor head is sealed on the back side with epoxy for use in vacuum applications

• Optris provides also for the vacuum application several solutions:
• There is a KF40 flange for the CTiLT hot sensors available: KF40 flange for CTiLThot with Ge window (up to 10-7 mbar)
• There is a pyrometer available with a vacuum flange KF 40 for the CTi LThot series with a cable length >= 3m. The customer must define the position of the KF 40 flange on the cable. A helium leackage rate <1×10-6 mbar*l*s-1 is also included

The IO-Link interface is coming soon.

• CT 1M series => 1 ms
• CT 2M series => 1 ms
• CT 3M series => 1 ms
• CT 4M series => 90 µs
• CTi 1M series => 110 µs
• CTi 2M series => 110 µs
• CTi 3M series => 110 µs
• CTi 4M series => 110 µs
• CTlaser 05M series => 1 ms
• CTlaser 1M series => 1 ms
• CTlaser 2M series => 1 ms
• CTlaser 3M series => 1 ms
• CTlaser 4M series => 90 µs
• CTratio series => 1 ms – 10s
• CSvision series => 1 ms – 10s
• CTvideo 1M series => 1 ms
• CTvideo 2M series => 1 ms
• CTvideo 3M series => 1 ms

• No, with one pyrometer you can only measure one spot.
• To measure temperatures at two different locations with pyrometers , you can install a network communication (e.g. RS485, PROFINET, ETHERNET TCP/IP MODBUS TCP, ETHERNET/IP or other available industrial interfaces which Optris provides for the pyrometer series.

No there are currently no laser-sighted pyrometers available with a response time faster than 10 microseconds (sub-10 µs) and a spot size of 20 µm or smaller

• Optris does provide pyrometers which have an environmental rating of IP65
• For an additional protection a protective window can be installed for some pyrometer series

• You can export the temperature-time diagram as CSV file. The following data are included (Example for two measure Areas):

• You can take snapshots as CSV files (Example of a snapshot as csv file exported to EXCEL):

Images

• “Frame timeout” means that not all frames of the IR camera could recognized in the software PIXConnect.
  This can have different causes:
• A too high data transfer especially on high resolution imagers when using two cameras on one USB host controller.
  Regarding this case try to use one camera for one USB controller. When using a network make sure all components are GigE suitable
• Using of an USB hub regarding this case assign every instance which camera to use [Tools/ Configuration/ Device/ Connect to device with SN]

There is no return policy available  (???) -> warten mit Antwort!!

• For hot aluminum temperatures we recommend to use a ratio pyrometer because of the low emissivity and the changing emissivity at special temperature points.
• For this we recommend to use the CTratio or CSvision 2M or 1M (depends on the temperature range)

This is not a setting but a field which shows the result of the calculation of the offset and gain regarding the set temperature range and the corresponding set signal outputs:

Images

• The choose of the correct Optris infrared camera depends on the temperature range and the type of the welding process.
• For plastic welding , a PI/Xi LT camera can be used (8-14 µm)
• For metal (e.g. steel applications) a short wavelength camera PI 1M/08M/05M , Xi 1M , Xi05M should be used (0.85-1.1 µm , 780-820 µm , 500-540 µm)
• For laser welding applications Optris provides IR cameras with a blocking filter.

• CTratio 1MH1 (temperature range 900(1000)-3000°C)
• CTratio 2MH1 (temperature range 500(550)-3000°C)
• CSvision R1MH (temperature range 1000-3000°C)
• CSvision R1MH1 (temperature range 1000-3500°C)

No, the software does not support any Apple products

Yes, zinc sulfide (ZnS) windows are transmissive for the 8-14 µm LWIR models

Images