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Temperature Range
The temperature range and span of each range can vary considerably between models. While some imagers can measure up to 2000°C, most entry level models will only measure up to 250°C. Most professional cameras will measure in the range of -20 to 600°C or higher. Many cameras designed for building sciences or veterinary work, may only measure as high as 100°C, therefore making them unsuitable for electrical and mechanical applications.
As prices progress, so does the temperature range. The first thing to be sure of is that your camera is capable of measuring the desired surface temperature of your target. Be aware that the “optional” temperature ranges quoted in brochure will only work if the camera was ordered with this function. This option is specially added to the camera during manufacture as it generally involves the addition of filters and special calibration process. It can be quite expensive (depending on the range required), so it pays to make sure a camera has a desired range before purchase.
There may be some performance trade-offs with a specific temperature range. Typically narrow ranges improve image quality, while broad ranges can diminish a camera’s sensitivity. Also, a camera’s range may be “split” over several ranges. For example a camera with -20 to 600°C capability, might have 3 ranges to achieve this. ie -20 to 120, 100 to 300, 250 to 600. Where the concern may arise is if you needed to view a target that varied in temperature between 150 and 400°C. With the above set ranges you would be unable to view the target seamlessly in 1 single range, instead having to use range 2 and 3. This would make analysis in a single image impossible. You cannot measure a temperature outside a given range. Again it pays to speak to a qualified consultant.