23  Changing settings

23.1  Settings relating to Options FLIR Tools/Tools+‎

23.1.1  The Options dialog (for program-wide options)

23.1.1.1   Recording tab

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File name prefix : The prefix that will be inserted in file names for recordings.
Image format : The image format for snapshots that are saved as image files from recordings.
Video format : The video format for recordings.
Browse : Click Browse to specify the location where video recordings will be saved.
Disk space : The available disk space for recordings.

23.1.1.2   View tab

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Hide cold and hot spot : To hide any existing cold and hot spots in an image, select this check box.
Show wizard when connecting a camera : To display the import guide when connecting a camera, select this checkbox.
Use entire-scale setting on auto-adjust image : (Applies to FLIR GF3xx cameras only.) To use the image’s entire temperature range when importing the image into FLIR Tools/Tools+, and not only the scene temperature range, select this check box. If this check box is not selected, the image may appear considerably darker after importing, since FLIR Tools/Tools+ uses a default temperature range. For more information about the scene temperature range, see the FLIR GF3xx camera manual.

23.1.1.3   Library tab

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Add existing folder to library : To add an existing folder on your computer to the image library, click Browse and navigate to the folder.
Remove folder : To remove a folder from the image library, select the folder in the folder list and then click Remove folder .

23.1.1.4   Report tab

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Page size : To change the page size, select a new page size in the list. Available options are A4 , US Letter , and US Legal .
Show all parameters : To display all measurement parameters for an image when included in a report, select this checkbox.
Extract digital camera image from thermal image (if available) when generating : For cameras supporting multispectral images, all image modes are included inside a single image file—MSX, thermal, thermal fusion, thermal blending, picture-in-picture, and the digital camera image. To extract the digital camera image when generating a report, select this checkbox.
User Report Studio templates path : The file path to the program’s Report Studio templates (Microsoft Word *.dotx files).
Logo : To display a logo in the top left corner of the report pages, select this checkbox. To display another logo, click Browse and navigate to the logo file.
Header : A text field where you can enter any text that shall be displayed in the report header.
Footer : A text field where you can enter any text that shall be displayed in the report footer.

23.1.1.5   Units tab

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Temperature unit : The unit for temperature values in the program and the reports. To change the unit, select another unit. Available options are Celsius , Fahrenheit , Kelvin .
Distance unit : The unit for distance in the program and the reports. To change the unit, select another unit. Available options are Meters , Feet .

23.1.1.6   Language tab

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Language : To change the language, select a new language in the list.

23.1.2  The Options dialog (for plot-specific options)

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Chart title : To change the title of the plot, type a title here.
Number of points : Number of sampling points that the plot is based on.
Show cross-hairs : To display a cross-hair that moves when you move the mouse and displays the X and Y axes values, select this checkbox. Graphic
Show latest value : To display the latest Y value, select this checkbox. Graphic
X axis > Auto : To let FLIR Tools/Tools+ automatically set the boundaries of the X axis, select Auto .
X axis > Manual : To manually set the boundaries of the X axis, select Manual and enter the start and stop times.
Y axis > Auto : To let FLIR Tools/Tools+ automatically set the boundaries of the Y axis, select Auto .
Y axis > Manual : To manually set the boundaries of the Y axis, select Manual and enter the min. and max. values.

23.2  Settings relating to FLIR Kx3‎ and FLIR Kx5‎ series cameras

23.2.1   General

The FLIR K series is a robust and reliable infrared camera series designed to perform under extremely severe conditions. It has an intuitive interface with a design that makes it easy to control even with a gloved hand. The crisp and clear image helps you to navigate through smoke and to make quick and accurate decisions.
By connecting a FLIR Kx3 or FLIR Kx5 series camera to FLIR Tools/Tools+, you get access to a variety of settings in the camera.

23.2.2  The General settings tab

23.2.2.1   Figure

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23.2.2.2   Explanation

Regional settings area: To synchronize the camera’s date and time settings with the computer, select the checkbox.
Firmware info area: To check whether a newer version of the camera firmware exists, click Check for updates and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restore to factory default area: To restore all camera settings to the factory defaults, click Restore .

23.2.3  The User interface tab

23.2.3.1   Figure

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23.2.3.2   Explanation

Camera modes area:
  • Applicable to FLIR Kx5: To define which camera modes to enable in the camera, select the camera mode. For more information on each camera mode, see section 23.2.4 Explanation of the different camera modes .
  • Applicable to FLIR Kx3: The camera features one camera mode: basic mode. For more information, see section 23.2.4.1 .
Trigger button area: The camera has a trigger button. With the settings in the Trigger button area, you can select the function of the trigger button. You select what will happen when you click (short press) the trigger button and what will happen when you hold (long press) the trigger button.
  • No action, No action: Select to disable any functionality of the trigger button. Nothing will happen when you press the trigger.
  • No action, Freeze image: Select to make the camera freeze the image when you press and hold the trigger. The image will unfreeze when you release the trigger. Nothing will happen when you press the trigger momentarily.
  • No action, Record video (not applicable to the FLIR K33 and FLIR K45): Select to make the camera start a recording when you press and hold the trigger. The recording will stop when you release the trigger. Nothing will happen when you press the trigger momentarily.
  • Save image, No action (not applicable to the FLIR K33): Select to make the camera save an image when you press the trigger momentarily. Nothing will happen when you press and hold the trigger.
  • Save image, Freeze image (not applicable to the FLIR K33): Select to make the camera save an image when you press the trigger momentarily and freeze the image when you press and hold the trigger. The image will unfreeze when you release the trigger.
  • Save image, Record video (not applicable to the FLIR K33 and FLIR K45): Select to make the camera save an image when you press the trigger momentarily and start a recording when you press and hold the trigger. The recording will stop when you release the trigger.
  • Rec. on/off, No action (not applicable to the FLIR K33 and FLIR K45): Select to make the camera start a recording when you press the trigger and stop the recording when you press the trigger again. Nothing will happen when you press and hold the trigger.
  • Continuous rec. (trigger disabled) (not applicable to the FLIR K33 and FLIR K45): Select to make the camera start a continuous video recording when you turn on the camera. The recording cannot be stopped. Nothing will happen when you press the trigger.
Gain mode area:
  • Auto gain mode: Select to make the camera automatically switch between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, depending on the scene temperature. The temperature level at which the camera switches between the two modes is 150°C (302°F).
  • Low gain mode: Select to make the camera operate in the low-sensitivity range only. This has the advantage that the camera does not perform a non-uniformity correction (NUC) when an object with a temperature higher than 150°C (302°F) enters the scene. However, the disadvantage is lower sensitivity and a higher level of signal noise.
Temperature unit area: To select a different temperature unit, click Celsius or Fahrenheit .
Thermal indication area:
  • Digital readout only : Select to display the thermal information in the image as the temperature of the spotmeter only. In modes with automatic heat colorization, the colorization of the image will remain but the static heat color reference icon will not be displayed.
  • Reference bar : In modes with automatic heat indication colorization, a vertical heat color reference bar is displayed in the thermal indication area. This static icon shows how heat colors are applied to the range of the camera mode. The colors yellow, orange, and red correspond to a temperature-dependent change in hue as the temperature increases.
  • Temp bar : Select to display the thermal information in the image as a temperature bar, similar to a thermometer. This displays a dynamic vertical temperature bar on the right-hand side of the image. The top of the dynamic bar represents the temperature of the measured spot. In modes with automatic heat colorization, the colorization of the image will remain, with a static heat color reference bar displayed next to the temperature bar.
Add custom boot image area: To select an image of your choice to appear during start-up, click Browse , and navigate to the image file. This is useful for, for example, identifying your fire department’s cameras. By incorporating your fire department’s logo, and a unique identity number in the image, you can keep track of your cameras. This image can also be accessed from the camera menu.

23.2.4  Explanation of the different camera modes

23.2.4.1  Basic mode

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Figure 23.1  Basic mode.

Basic mode is the default mode of the camera. It is a multipurpose mode for the initial fire attack with life-saving operations and control of the fire. The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image while at the same time maintaining a safe and consistent heat colorization of the fire scene.
  • Automatic range.
  • Colorization of heat: +150 to +650°C (+302 to +1202°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +650°C (+32 to +1202°F).

23.2.4.2  Black and white firefighting mode

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Figure 23.2  Black and white firefighting mode.

Black and white firefighting mode is a standardized firefighting mode based on Basic mode. It is a multipurpose mode for the initial fire intervention that includes life-saving operations and control of the fire. It is specifically designed for fire services that do not want to use the heat colorization feature.
The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image.
  • Automatic range.
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +650°C (+32 to +1202°F).

23.2.4.3  Fire mode

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Figure 23.3  Fire mode.

Fire mode is similar to Basic mode, but with a higher-temperature starting point for the heat colorization. It is suitable for fire scenes with higher background temperatures, where there are already a lot of open flames and a high background temperature. The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image while at the same time maintaining a safe and consistent heat colorization.
  • Automatic range.
  • Colorization of heat: +250 to +650°C (+ 482 to +1202°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +650°C (+32 to +1202°F).

23.2.4.4  Search and rescue mode

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Figure 23.4  Search and rescue mode.

Search and rescue mode is optimized for maintaining high contrast in the infrared image while searching for people in landscapes, buildings, or traffic accident scenes.
  • High-sensitivity range only.
  • Colorization of heat: +100 to +150°C (+212 to +302°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).

23.2.4.5  Heat detection mode

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Figure 23.5  Heat detection mode.

Heat detection mode is optimized for searching hotspots during overhaul after the fire is out—typically to ensure that there is no remaining hidden fire. This mode can also be used to find thermal patterns (e.g., signs of people in car seats after accidents), to ensure that everyone has been found. This mode can also be used to search for people in water and open landscapes.
  • High-sensitivity range only.
  • Colorization of heat: the 20% highest temperatures in the scene.
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).

23.3  Settings relating to FLIR Kx‎ series cameras

23.3.1   General

The FLIR K series is a robust and reliable infrared camera series designed to perform under extremely severe conditions. It has an intuitive interface with a design that makes it easy to control even with a gloved hand. The crisp and clear image helps you to navigate through smoke and to make quick and accurate decisions.
By connecting a FLIR Kx series camera to FLIR Tools/Tools+, you get access to a variety of settings in the camera.

23.3.2  The General settings tab

23.3.2.1   Figure

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23.3.2.2   Explanation

Firmware info area: To check whether a newer version of the camera firmware exists, click Check for updates , and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restore to factory default area: To restore all camera settings to the factory defaults, click Restore .

23.3.3  The User interface tab

23.3.3.1   Figure

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23.3.3.2   Explanation

Camera modes area: To define which camera modes to enable in the camera, select the camera mode. For more information on each camera mode, see section 23.3.4 Explanation of the different camera modes .
Gain mode area:
  • Auto gain mode: Select to make the camera automatically switch between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, depending on the scene temperature. The temperature level at which the camera switches between the two modes is +150°C (+302°F).
  • Low gain mode: Select to make the camera work in the low-sensitivity range only. This has the advantage that the camera does not perform a non-uniformity correction when an object with a temperature higher than +150°C (+302°F) enters the scene. However, the disadvantage is lower sensitivity and a higher level of signal noise.
Add custom boot image area: To specify your own unique image to appear during start-up, click Browse , and navigate to the image file. This is useful for, for example, identifying your fire department’s cameras. By incorporating your fire department’s logo, and a unique identity number in the image, you can keep track of your cameras.

23.3.4  Explanation of the different camera modes

23.3.4.1  Basic mode

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Figure 23.6  Basic mode.

The Basic mode is the default mode of the camera. It is a multipurpose mode for the initial fire attack with life rescuing operation and control of the fire. The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image while at the same time maintaining a safe and consistent heat colorization of the fire scene.
  • Automatic range.
  • Colorization of heat: +150 to +500°C (+302 to +932°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +500°C (+32 to +932°F).

23.3.4.2  Black and white firefighting mode

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Figure 23.7  Black and white firefighting mode.

The black and white firefighting mode is a standardized firefighting mode based on the Basic mode. It is a multipurpose mode for the initial fire intervention that includes life rescuing operations and control of the fire. It is specifically designed for fire services that do not want to use the heat colorization feature.
The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image.
  • Automatic range.
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +500°C (+32 to +932°F).

23.3.4.3  Fire mode

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Figure 23.8  Fire mode.

The fire mode is similar to the Basic mode, but with a higher-temperature starting point for the heat colorization. It is suitable for fire scenes with higher background temperatures, where there are already a lot of open flames and a high background temperature. The camera automatically switches between the high-sensitivity range and the low-sensitivity range, to maintain an optimal infrared image while at the same time maintaining a safe and consistent heat colorization.
  • Automatic range.
  • Colorization of heat: +250 to +500°C (+ 482 to +932°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).
  • Low-sensitivity range: 0 to +500°C (+32 to +932°F).

23.3.4.4  Search and rescue mode

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Figure 23.9  Search and rescue mode.

The search and rescue mode is optimized for maintaining high contrast in the infrared image while searching for people in landscapes, buildings, or traffic accident scenes.
  • High-sensitivity range only.
  • Colorization of heat: +100 to +150°C (+212 to +302°F).
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).

23.3.4.5  Heat detection mode

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Figure 23.10  Heat detection mode.

The heat detection mode is optimized for searching hotspots during overhaul after the fire is out—typically to ensure that there is no remaining hidden fire. This mode can also be used to find thermal patterns (e.g., signs of people in car seats after accidents), to ensure that everyone has been found. This mode can also be used to search for people in water and open landscapes.
  • High-sensitivity range only.
  • Colorization of heat: the 20% highest temperatures in the scene.
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).

23.3.4.6  Cold detection mode

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Figure 23.11  Cold detection mode.

The cold detection mode is optimized for searching coldspots—typically to find drafts and air flows.
  • High-sensitivity range only.
  • Colorization of cold: the 20% lowest temperatures in the scene.
  • High-sensitivity range: –20 to +150°C (–4 to +302°F).

23.3.4.7  Building analysis mode

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Figure 23.12  Building analysis mode.

The building analysis mode is suitable for the analysis of buildings and the detection of building-related anomalies. The thermal image can provide information on structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical constructions as well as an indication of moisture, wetness, and air infiltration.
In this mode, the camera uses an iron color palette to display the different temperatures, where black, blue, and purple are for the coldest areas, followed by red, orange, and yellow for the mid-range and going to white for the hottest parts. The temperature scale is automatically adjusted to the thermal content of the image.