There's more to Flir than infrared cameras, as it also owns Extech, the manufacturer of test and measurement instruments. The company has now launched Meterlink, an industry-first wireless connection between the two so that meters can ‘talk to' cameras. This means those involved in electrical and building inspection will be able to work quicker, easier and more intelligently than ever before.
Meterlink makes it possible to transfer, via Bluetooth, the data acquired by an Extech instrument to the infrared camera and instantly embed it on an infrared image for accurate, co-ordinated documentation. This communication is possible between the Extech EX845 clamp meter, the Extech InspectorPro MO297 moisture meter and infrared cameras ranging upwards from the FLIR i/b60.
For example, during infrared inspection of electrics, users can transmit key readings such as current or voltage from a Meterlink-enabled Extech clamp meter directly to the Flir infrared camera. It brings more intelligence to inspection as typically it is now possible to establish a relationship between heat and load.
Similarly in the building environment, when moisture is identified on a Flir infrared image, an exact reading can be taken by the Extech multi-function moisture meter and psychrometer. Its readings are then transmitted to the Flir B-Series camera and recorded on the image along with other readings such as relative humidity and ambient temperature.
Higher sensitivity ratings have been introduced for several cameras in the Flir Compact and Mid-range as well a host of clever features to complement the Meterlink technology. For example users can now easily collate images and findings into a fully-formatted PDF report that can be given to a client, on-site, via a USB memory stick. There's no need for a PC, USB cable, internet or email.
For those inspecting high voltage installations a new auto-correction feature automatically compensates for any anomalies resulting from the use of safety devices such as viewing ports or IR windows. And FLIR has also used Bluetooth technology to provide wireless headset connection to a Flir camera for easier recording of voice comments associated with their inspection.
"Meterlink has been developed at the request of customers, they want their cameras to talk to meters," explains Guy Pas, Flir's VP sales, commercial systems EMEA. "It allows them to integrate valuable readings into one format, their infrared image. And the related connectivity features we're introducing emphasises Flir's commitment to driving innovation and leadership in the infrared camera industry."
FLIR Systems
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