How to Use Infrared Thermal Imaging

Thermal image of a hand.

Infrared thermal imaging detects infrared light. Infrared light, referred to as heat, is a component of many home security systems. Infrared light cannot be seen by the human eye, but it can be felt by your skin. It is possible to pick up this thermal light by using a thermal imaging camera. In particular, thermal imaging works very well at night to detect objects that cannot be seen. A camera collects the infrared radiation and converts this radiation into a picture that can be viewed on a screen.

Things You'll Need

• FLIR (forward looking IR) camera
• Coaxial cable
• Ethernet cable
• Monitor or computer

Instructions

1. Mount the camera to a sturdy wall if the camera is to function as security. Handheld cameras do not need to be mounted.

2. Connect the camera to a TV monitor or to your computer. The cables connect to the back of the camera and are then plugged into the monitor. Use a coaxial cable for a TV monitor or an Ethernet cable to connect to a computer. The camera should come with all the necessary cables. If you are unsure, check with the manual. The newest thermal imaging cameras use wireless technology to connect to your system.

3. Download and install the thermal imaging software onto your computer. Handheld cameras will have this software in the actual camera. Cameras that do not have screens will require additional software to view thermal images on your monitor.

4. Turn the camera and software on and start taking thermal images. Some applications of thermal imaging beyond security systems include checking for leaks to make your home more energy efficient and detecting mold growth. Home security systems function as scanners. A baseline reading is taken and then after every scan--for example, one scan a minute--any change in infrared from the background will set off the alarm.

5. Determine the heat differences based on the color or brightness of the image. Gray scale objects that appear whiter will be warmer. Color objects that move from black to dark red to white are increasing in temperature.

References

• Temperatures: About Thermal Imaging
• FLIR: Thermal Imaging for Energy Auditing & Home Inspection