The new SC2500 NIR camera from FLIR is its first indium gallium arsenide - InGaAs - model with European FPA detector, but there is much more to this high performer than freedom from licensing. For example, unlike comparable cameras it has embedded lock-in signal input, used to enhance signal-to-noise ratio imaging. This is a feature that is particularly valuable for applications such as silicon wafer inspection.
The FLIR SC2500-N also has user-selectable integration times of up to one second. This allows a wide temperature range to be addressed with optimal accuracy. And typically of interest to those involved in biological IR, the FLIR SC2500-N can filter out unwanted spectral regions.
Small, lightweight, easy to carry and set-up, the FLIR SC2500-N is both powerful and versatile. It is also fully radiometric for high temperature thermographic applications up to 3000°C and compatible with Altair software, a factor that will benefit the range phenomenology community. Frame rates are up to an ultra fast 15kHz.
Other notable features include snap-in optical filter holder, input as well as output triggering and a removable optical interface that allows the camera to be easily teamed with custom devices or spectrometers. Its Gigabit Ethernet digital interface ensures a seamless connection to any standard PC or laptop.
The embedded European detector provides considerable added value when compared to coated CCD and lead-oxysulfide detectors (vidicons). Spectral sensitivity of FLIR’s InGaAs detector is an impressive 1700nm by comparison with the alternatives whose quantum efficiency typically drops to 1-2% in the 1100-1700 nm range.
This camera delivers ready to use, sharp images for applications as diverse as solar cell inspection, laser profiling, paint analysis, water or ice detection, furnace inspection, fine art analysis, astronomy, skin damage evaluation, low light imagery and phenomenology. With the introduction of this model FLIR now covers the entire IR spectrum – 0.8 to 12µm – with a single suite of cameras.