PI 400i LT

The Optris PI 400i is a high-resolution lass=”yoast-text-mark”>ref=”/products/category/thermal-cameras/”>infrared camera designed for continuous radiometric temperature monitoring in industrial settings. The thermal camera employs an uncooled focal plane array with 382 by 288 pixels, providing live thermal imaging at up to 80 Hz. The camera operates in the long-wave infrared spectrum from 8 to 14 µm, making it suitable for thermographic analysis of diverse materials and surfaces. Its combination of spatial resolution, temporal accuracy, and advanced software control allows process engineers and researchers to visualize temperature distributions, identify thermal anomalies, and implement automated alarms in closed-loop systems.

Performance is defined by a system accuracy of ±2 °C or ±2 %, and a typical thermal sensitivity of 75 mK with wide-angle optics. With the narrow 18 by 14° lens, sensitivity is about 0.1 K. This balance lets the thermal camera reveal subtle gradients and track fast transients without motion blur. Standard radiometric ranges cover -20 to 100 °C, 0 to 250 °C, and 150 to 900 °C. For higher temperatures, extended calibration increases coverage up to 1500 °C. One platform handles commissioning at ambient conditions and monitoring of hot zones in thermal manufacturing lines.

Interchangeable lenses allow users to match the field of view to their working distance and target size. Options include 18 by 14° with a 20 mm focal length, 29 by 22° with a 12.7 mm focal length, 53 by 38° with a 7.7 mm focal length, and 80 by 54° with a 5.7 mm focal length. A manual focus ring allows precise tuning for the chosen geometry, preserving measurement accuracy. Optris specifies both the instantaneous field of view for single-pixel sizing and the recommended minimum field of view, based on a three-by-three pixel spot, to support accurate measurement on small targets. PIX Connect software adds distortion correction for wide optics and calculators to help plan pixel size on target and stand-off distances.

Integration is straightforward. The PI 400i connects to a computer over USB 2.0 and ships with license-free PIX Connect software and a full software development kit. For long cable runs or networked installations, a USB-to-Gigabit-Ethernet server with Power over Ethernet is available. The PI NetBox miniature computer can convert the camera into a stand-alone node for Ethernet integration. Process inputs and outputs are handled by the standard Process Interface, which provides one analog output from 0 to 10 volts, one analog input from 0 to 10 VDC, and a digital input up to 24 VDC. These can be mapped to functions such as emissivity control, triggered snapshots and recording, line-scan mode, alarm signaling, or frame synchronization. The optional Industrial Process Interface adds galvanic isolation and expands the IO suite with dual analog inputs, three configurable analog outputs (0 or 4 to 20 mA for alarms), three relay outputs, and a dedicated fail-safe relay. This configuration lets the camera drive programmable logic controllers with clear, deterministic behavior during normal operation and fault conditions.

PIX Connect supports real-time visualization, statistical tools such as histograms and min or max tracking, line profiles, and time versus temperature charts. Users can configure triggers for data capture, alarm thresholds with hysteresis, emissivity tables, and region-based analysis. Radiometric video can be recorded in the Optris format for later playback and pixel-accurate analysis. Single frames can be saved as radiometric images or exported to CSV for external processing. Remote control is possible through the included COM and DLL interfaces, and developers can choose between the Connect SDK that automates PIX Connect or the Direct SDK that accesses the camera without the application. Both Windows and Linux are supported.

The thermal camera body is small and rugged. Typical dimensions are 46 x 56 x 68 to 77 mm, depending on lens and focus position, and the weight ranges from 237 to 251 g. An anodized aluminum housing with an IP67 rating protects against dust and water. The design is qualified to industry vibration and shock profiles according to IEC 60068. The allowable ambient temperature during operation is 0 to 50 °C. For harsher environments, the CoolingJacket Advanced raises the allowable ambient temperature to 315 °C and can accommodate the Industrial Process Interface within the enclosure. An outdoor housing supports weather-exposed deployments. High-temperature USB cables rated to 180 °C or 250 °C and stainless steel mounting bases simplify installation in areas with heat and mechanical loads.

Mobile commissioning is possible with the IRmobile application for Android. A smartphone or tablet with USB On The Go can display the live radiometric stream from the PI series, apply palettes and scaling, detect hot or cold spots automatically, and capture snapshots. This enables field alignment and quick diagnostics without a laptop and shortens setup time on the factory floor.

The performance profile of the PI 400i suits continuous thermal monitoring tasks in electronics assembly, plastics extrusion and calendering, materials and component testing, cable harnesses and electrical cabinets, and general process engineering. Hot-spot detection and envelope alarms enable early intervention, while fail-safe outputs support interlocks and safety logic. Radiometric recording adds traceability for audits and root-cause analysis. The camera can also perform line-scan style measurements for moving targets when a conveyor or rotating part requires high temporal resolution along a fixed line.

A typical delivery includes the camera with one lens, a 1m USB cable, a table tripod, the Process Interface cable with terminal block, PIX Connect software, a test certificate, and an aluminum transport case. Extended USB cables up to twenty meters can be ordered for long runs. The result is a compact imaging pyrometer that combines a 382 x 288 pixel resolution, 80 Hz acquisition rate, interchangeable optics, robust process interfaces, and a comprehensive software and SDK toolchain in a package optimized for industrial integration.

Thermography software optris PIX Connect is included and license-free.All infrared cameras are delivered with the thermography software optris PIX Connect, developed specifically for the extensive documentation and analysis of thermal images. The Windows-based PIX Connect software enables users to tailor the infrared cameras to meet specific requirements. It analyses live and recorded temperature data and triggers alarm signals for process integration. The key to leveraging the Optris infrared camera is a correct configuration. This includes detailed device-specific configurations such as frame rate, measurement range adjustments, external communication settings, and USB/Ethernet configurations. Moreover, PIX Connect facilitates firmware updates and the download of configuration files over the Internet. PIX Connect Optris offers several different SDKs for our Xi and PI thermal imaging cameras. Depending on the operating platform, the infrared camera, the coding language, and the hardware platform, different software interfaces can be utilized: SDK The Optris IRmobile allows users to set up and commission an Optris infrared pyrometer or infrared camera with an Android smartphone or tablet. This tool becomes handy for commissioning and aligning the infrared camera’s field of view or adjusting the configuration. The app analyzes the connected infrared camera‘s live infrared image stream with auto hot and cold spot detection. For pyrometers, a temperature-time diagram or the video signal is displayed. This app works on most Android devices running 5.0+ with a USB port supporting USB-OTG (On The Go). Google Play

What is the difference between a PI 400i and a PI450i?

The Optris PI 450i has a higher sensitivity and a wider ambient temperature range than the Optris PI 400i.

Can the PI 400i thermal camera be calibrated with more than one lens?

Four different lens options are available for the PI 400i; each can replace the optic installed on the camera. Each optic attenuates infrared signals in varying degrees and needs to be calibrated with the camera to deliver accurate temperature measurements, so it is best to anticipate future optic requirements and include these in the initial camera order.

Can I purchase another later if I do not order more than one infrared lens with my first PI 400i thermal camera?

Yes. Optris frequently performs post-purchase infrared lens calibrations, but you will need to return your camera to Optris so the attenuating effects of the new lens can be properly accounted for during the calibration process.

How do I load different calibration files if I change optics?

Calibration files for every optic combination for your PI400i are available on Optris servers and loaded onto your PC when connected to the internet to initiate the load process. Additionally, a USB drive with the software and the calibration files comes with the infrared camera.

Is the PI 400i thermal camera export-controlled?

The PI 400i’s high resolution qualifies it for export control in the EU and US markets. Check with local compliance authorities for procedures to manage exports outside the U.S. or European markets.

Can I use the PI 400i thermal camera to measure metal temperatures?

Most metal targets have low emissivity and tend to reflect heat temperatures from any area incident upon the target. Infrared cameras with long-wave detectors like the PI 400i are particularly vulnerable to this low emissivity effect. For this reason, it is best to use a short-wavelength camera, such as the Optris PI 1M, when measuring metal targets unless it is possible to coat or paint the metal part to improve its surface emissivity. Emissivity can also be improved on metal surfaces when they are rough-textured or when there are holes or crevices where measurements can be made inside the cavity.

Where is the PI 400i thermal camera made, and do its memory components come from outside the U.S. or the European Union?

The PI 400i is designed, manufactured, and calibrated in Berlin, Germany. Some electronic components may be sourced from outside the EU or the US. Still, it is important to note that the PI 400i does not store any thermal images or temperature values in non-volatile memory. The PI 400i thremal camera only stores full thermal images, thermal video (.ravi files), and temperature values in the customer PC hosting the PIX Connect software necessary to operate the camera. The thermal camera uses memory components inside the camera electronics, which may be sourced outside the EU or the US to store a reference picture (also called dark picture) of the non-uniformity correction paddle or flag and some reference temperatures used to correct temperature drift. All these memory elements are deleted when the power to the camera head is terminated.

Does the PI 400i have any Wi-Fi or other communication capabilities?

The PI 400i thermal camera has no electronic components that enable external communication.

Can the PI 400i thermal camera operate without a connection to a computer?

The PI 400i thermal camera must be connected to a PC loaded with Optris PIX Connect software to produce thermal images and remote temperature measurements. By eliminating processing in the camera head and leveraging PC processing power, the camera head size can be reduced, and the ambient operating temperature can be increased. Autonomous operation (without the use of a PC) is supported in Optris Xi-series infrared cameras.

Can the PI 400i thermal camera send temperature information from spots or areas to my PLC?

The PI 400i can send temperature information or temperature alarms from the Process Interface connection on the back of the camera. A cable with integrated electronics and a terminal block is included with the camera. It can be programmed in PIX Connect software as an Analog Input (AI) and Digital Input (DI) to control the thermal camera or as an Analog Output (AO) to control the process. The signal level is always 0-10 V (DI = 24 V). An optional industrial process interface is also available, delivering up to three independent temperature values or alarms to a user-supplied PLC. USB-RS485 adapters are available for applications with output requirements for more than three areas.

What are the associated part numbers for this product?

OPTPI40ILTO18T090, OPTPI40ILTO29T090, OPTPI40ILTO53T090, OPTPI40ILTO80T090, OPTPI40ILTO18T010, OPTPI40ILTO29T010, OPTPI40ILTO53T010, OPTPI40ILTO80T010, OPTPI40ILTO18T150, OPTPI40ILTO29T150, OPTPI40ILTO53T150, OPTPI40ILTO80T150, DBRPI40ILTO18T090, DBRPI40ILTO29T090, DBRPI40ILTO53T090, DBRPI40ILTO80T090, DBRPI40ILTO18T010, DBRPI40ILTO29T010, DBRPI40ILTO53T010, DBRPI40ILTO80T010, DBRPI40ILTO18T150, DBRPI40ILTO29T150, DBRPI40ILTO53T150, DBRPI40ILTO80T150, MEPPI40ILTO18T090, MEPPI40ILTO29T090, MEPPI40ILTO53T090, MEPPI40ILTO80T090, MEPPI40ILTO18T010, MEPPI40ILTO29T010, MEPPI40ILTO53T010, MEPPI40ILTO80T010, MEPPI40ILTO18T150, MEPPI40ILTO29T150, MEPPI40ILTO53T150, MEPPI40ILTO80T150

The stated accuracy in that range for the PI 640i LT is +-2 C, but I was wondering if the accuracy could be further improved with surface emissivity information or calibrated to +-1 C or better

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.

I have a PI 640i and would like to connect it with the USB cable. What do I do if I’m not receiving a signal in the software?

– 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

Will optris PIX Connect Software for optris IR Cameras run on my iPad?

No, PIXConnect currently cannot be run on an iOS system (Apple).

Is your infrared camera long-wave (LWIR) or short-wave (SWIR/MWIR)? What’s the typical frame rate? What’s the IFOV (instantaneous field of view / pixel size)? And does it connect to a PC via USB, or what other platforms/interfaces are supported (e.g., Ethernet, etc.)?

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
You can see the IFOV (instantaneous field of view / pixel size) for your IR camera with the different available optics in the optics calculator on the Optris website: Optris IR Camera Calculator (https://optris.com/optris-calculator/camera/)
Example:

What is the bit depth of our camera?

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

Can we send the raw ADU data from the camera to another commercial software for processing?

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.

Does changing the mode from Temperature to ADU in the Connect SDK change the way that the image is displayed?

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.

Our company designs and supplies camera systems for steelmaking processes and is exploring different camera types. For this application, would you recommend long-range, near-infrared, or short-wave infrared models?

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!

I’m using the SDK to run SimpleViewer on Linux and have PI Connect installed on Windows. After performing calibration, the thermal image appears entirely black and displays an incorrect temperature reading of 257°F. Which setup or calibration steps could I have overlooked to make this work correctly?

– 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”

Does the PI 640i support external triggering? Specifically, can I connect a relay output or a controller’s digital output to trigger image acquisition on the camera?

– 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.

Which Optris infrared cameras support integration with machine learning frameworks? Do they provide raw thermal image data access via SDK/API (e.g., the OTC SDK), allowing developers to apply custom ML models for tasks like segmentation, classification, or predictive thermal analysis?

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.

Which Optris infrared camera is best for measuring temperatures during welding processes?

– 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.

• Infrared Camera PI 400i
• USB cable (1m)
• Cable for output/input (1 m) incl. terminal block
• Tripod
• Rugged outdoor transport case (IP67)
• Software package optris PIX Connect
• PI Product Manual