Manufacturers

The epic saga of the FLIR “How to Choose” summaries continues with this third installment. This time around we are taking a look at the E series cameras with particular regard to electrical and mechanical applications. FLIR’s video lists the same jobs as in its i-series videos but notes that the E series is most useful for applications that require more frequent thermal camera use.

Whether you’re a plant/building MRO professional, electrical or HVACR contractor, or a building inspector, FLIR’s i-Series infrared (IR) cameras allow you to see what you’ve been missing. Rugged, lightweight, and affordable, FLIR i3, i5, and i7 IR cameras feature a large 2.8-inch color LCD that lets you view detailed temperature variations on critical systems, components, and connection panels.

Today’s post is a buyer’s guide to the FLIR i-series cameras (the first in a series of six by me) and also a summary of the key points outlined in FLIR’s new “How to Choose” series of videos.

Today let’s talk about inexpensive thermal cameras, specifically the Fluke TiS. As you heard from me previously, and know from being in the field, Fluke is a manufacturer at the top of their game. The Tis is Fluke’s entry level offering in the thermal market and it is, as usual, a solid piece of equipment.

Providing clients with proof that your work is installed properly is becoming more and more commonplace. Companies spend a lot of money to have networks installed in their offices and they want some guarantee that things are what you say they are. The Byte Brothers Real World Certifier does exactly that. In some respects, the RWC1000K is similar to the LVPRO3 that I reviewed last week.

This is a post in praise of Fluke. I honestly carry no bias in this and many companies make great products that are comparable in lots of ways. This post is just to let you know exactly what you are getting when you purchase Fluke, specifically their line of thermal imagers.

Even the most versatile tools won’t do everything. I’m sorry to tell you but the thermal camera that also takes electrical readings, tests fiber optic cables, analyzes combustible gases, and cooks you scrambled eggs hasn’t been invented yet. Joking aside, the lesson is that you need choose a tool that, while flexible, is tailored to tackle your specific job. So how do you choose a Fluke camera?

The Fieldpiece SMAN3 model has been discontinued.

Have you ever had $100 in your pocket and asked yourself, “Man, I’d really love a high quality Cable Tester, but all I have is $100”? Well, have I got news for you sonny! The VDV Scout Pro Tester Kit is a great Cable Tester and can easily be found for under $100.

The Flir E60 has been discontinued.

Who really likes wires? They are messy, ugly, and fragile. Now, we need them for certain applications for sure. I’m not suggesting we ditch wires completely but if you ask this guy, when they aren’t necessary or an advanced technology exists that tackles the same task, who needs ‘em? Enter the Flir E60 and its exciting range of wireless features.