Flir Advanced Thermal Solutions (ATS) has announced a white paper that reviews a selection of the major applications of near-infrared (Near-IR) cameras.
Near-IR cameras, which are sensitive to the near-infrared spectrum (0.9 to 1.7um), are increasingly found in research laboratories, design departments and on factory production lines.
Used to view phenomena that cannot be observed with 'thermal' (MWIR/LWIR) imaging systems, Near-IR cameras are said to have many advantages.
Most Near-IR cameras use an InGaAs (Indium Gallium Arsenide) detector that can be used without cryogenic cooling, and are therefore lighter, smaller and less expensive than traditional 'thermal' imaging systems.
As these cameras have no mobile parts, they are particularly robust and capable of withstanding harsh use conditions such as during continuous 24/7 operation.
The high quantum efficiency of InGaAs detectors between 900 and 1,100nm (greater than 75 per cent), makes Near-IR cameras a better choice than EM CCDs, for which quantum efficiency at these wavelengths is very low (less than 20 per cent).
With experience in the design and fabrication of InGaAs detectors and cameras, Flir is able to develop an optimised solution for Near-IR applications.
A copy of the 'Near-IR cameras: R+D and Industrial Applications' white paper is available on request from Flir ATS.
