PI 640i G7

The PI 640i G7 is a high-performance infrared camera built for both researchers and process engineers. It supports remote temperature measurement for research and process control. In its standard setup, it delivers high VGA resolution and image quality, measuring temperatures from 150°C to 900°C. The camera can also be calibrated for high-temperature measurements up to 3000°C. The Precision Line from Optris is known for its accurate radiometric measurements and clear images.

Measuring glass temperature accurately depends on emissivity, which can change based on different factors and needs to be considered for each application. The G7’s 7.9 µm spectral range matches the highest emissivity of glass, making remote temperature measurement easier by reducing reflectivity and transmissivity. This range also lessens the effect of viewing angle on emissivity, so surface temperature can be measured reliably, even from an angle. The PI 640i G7 uses a 17 µm pixel size, which allows for a small measurement field of view of just 3 x 3 pixels. Its high-quality, larger optics ensure clear images with little distortion and even brightness across the picture. You can choose from many interchangeable lenses to get the best view and pixel coverage for your target. The camera runs at 32 Hz in standard mode and up to 125 Hz in high-speed mode, making it suitable for monitoring fast manufacturing processes.

The PI 640i G7 works with Optris PIX Connect software, available as a free download with updates provided on a no-charge basis. The PIX Connect package includes the ability to seek hot spot and cold spot locations, histogram, temperature profiling, image subtraction, and other thermal image processing tools. For researchers and process engineers, the PC-based PIX Connect platform offers a powerful thermal image processing capability that allows users to extract and document fully calibrated temperature measurements from any pixel in the scene. Time-versus-temperature data can be extracted from both live and recorded thermal video files containing stored temperature data. Additionally, the software supports data collection of the highest, lowest, and average temperatures from areas of any size or shape, as well as from complex alarm signals. Engineers can replay stored thermal video frame by frame, enabling them to capture and store radiometric images and trigger snapshots during temperature changes.

The PI 640i G7 has changed how line scanners are used in the glass industry. Its PIX Connect software includes a line scan feature that turns the camera’s two-dimensional image into a continuous display of temperature changes along a single line. This makes it easier to monitor and analyze temperature along the glass line. Traditional line scanners use a point detector and a rotating mirror, making them bulky, costly, and hard to set up. With the PI 640i G7, you can select any line from the detector array using the software, and you also get a full infrared image for extra information. This compact design and flexibility are especially helpful during system setup. The camera can measure the temperature of moving objects with small apertures, which is important in the glass industry because temperature affects quality. Temperatures are tracked at many points during production and sent directly to the process control system. This mode lets the infrared camera replace older, larger line scanners while taking up much less space.

For example, the PI 640i G7 with a 90° lens can scan the complete glass sheet width using the float process (Up to 4 m). Multiple IR cameras and infrared images can be merged into the software if a larger width is required. Using a subframe mode of 640 x 120 pixels, data can be captured at 125 Hz, which allows undistorted images without image blur.

The rugged PI 640i G7 camera head is easy to move from the lab to tight spots on the factory floor. Its IP 67 (NEMA 4) rating means it can handle temperatures from 0°C to 70°C without extra protection. There are many accessories to help the camera collect data and control temperature in tough environments. Water-cooled enclosures protect it in areas up to 315°C and come ready for the Industrial Process Interface. Air purging accessories keep the optics clear of dust and vapors. For outdoor use, heated enclosures are available to protect the camera in all weather.

The PI 640i G7 camera and PIX Connect software are designed to easily send temperature data to external PLCs or control systems. With the Industrial Process Interface, you can send temperature or alarm signals to a PLC using current or relay outputs. The system also lets you trigger image or video capture when certain temperature conditions are met.

The PI 640i G7 infrared camera is designed and manufactured in Germany and offers calibration certificates for customers who need to document traceability.

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

Why should I measure glass with a G7 thermal camera?

Accurate temperature measurement relies significantly on the emissivity of glass, a crucial determinant affected by multiple factors and tailored to specific applications. The narrowband G7 spectral range, peaking at 7.9 µm, aligns with the highest emissivity of glass, facilitating remote temperature measurement by minimizing issues related to reflectivity and transmissivity. Additionally, within this wavelength range, the angle dependency of glass surface emissivity is reduced, allowing for temperature measurement regardless of reflection, even at inclined viewing angles.

How do I align the thermal camera?

The PI 640i G7 infrared camera offers a sighting mode in which an infrared image is shown, but no temperature values are measured.

Do I need a high-resolution infrared camera like the PI 640i G7, or can I use a less expensive, lower-resolution camera?

It depends on the temperature measurement requirement. In addition to delivering infrared images with higher clarity, the higher pixel count of high-resolution thermal cameras measures smaller targets because each pixel covers a smaller physical area. High-resolution cameras can often be positioned further away from the part to be measured and still deliver accurate measurements, combining the advantages of higher resolution with telephoto optics. It is also important to consider future uses for the camera that may require higher resolution. Purchasing a high-resolution camera that may not be necessary to service an immediate requirement may eliminate the need for an additional camera purchase. If the area to be measured is not small, an inexpensive resolution camera can be a more affordable measurement solution. It is important to note that a low-resolution IR camera can often deliver better small-spot size performance than single-spot pyrometers. To determine the ability to measure small targets with any camera and optic combination, use the Optris Optics Calculator and the MFOV (Measurement Field of View) to determine spot size.

Can the PI 640i G7 be calibrated with more than one lens?

Five different lens options are available for the PI 640i G7; each can replace the optic installed on the thermal 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 lens later if I do not order more than one infrared lens with my first PI 640i G7 thermal camera?

Yes. Optris frequently performs post-purchase IR 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 in the calibration process.

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

Calibration files for every optic combination for your PI640i G7 thermal camera 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 640i G7 export-controlled?

The high resolution of the PI 640i G7 qualifies it for export control in both the EU and US markets. Check with local compliance authorities for procedures to manage export outside U.S. or European markets.

Where is the PI 640i G7 thermal camera made, and do its memory components come from outside the U.S. or the European Union?

The PI 640i G7 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 640i G7 does not store any thermal images or temperature values in non-volatile memory. The PI 640i G7 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 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 640i G7 thermal camera have any Wi-Fi or other communication capabilities?

The PI 640i G7 has no electronic components that enable external communication.

Can the PI 640i G7 thermal camera operate without a connection to a computer?

The PI 640i G7 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 thermal 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 640i G7 thermal camera send temperature information from spots or areas to my PLC?

The PI 640i G7 thermal camera can send temperature information or temperature alarms from the Process Interface connection on the back of the thermal 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 requiring output of more than three areas.

What are the associated part numbers to this product?

OPT64IG7O15T150, OPT64IG7O33T150, OPT64IG7O60T150, OPT64IG7O90T150, OPT64IG7O120T150, MEP64IG7O15T150, MEP64IG7O33T150, MEP64IG7O60T150, MEP64IG7O90T150, OPT64IG7O15T300, OPT64IG7O33T300, OPT64IG7O60T300, OPT64IG7O90T300, OPT64IG7O120T300, MEP64IG7O15T300, MEP64IG7O33T300, MEP64IG7O60T300, MEP64IG7O90T300

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.

Will the Optris PI 640i (8–14 µm LWIR model) work properly when looking through a Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) window?

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

• Infrared Camera PI 640i G7
• 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