What is a thermal imaging camera?
A thermal imaging camera is a device that creates an image using infrared radiation, similar to a common camera that forms an image using visible light. Instead of 400 –700 nm range of the visible light camera, infrared cameras are sensitive to wavelengths from about 1 μm to about 14 μm. The art of capturing and analyzing the data they provide is called thermography.
How do thermal imaging cameras work?
Thermal imaging cameras, also called infrared cameras, detect the heat emitted by an object or person. Thermal imaging cameras have lenses, just like visible light cameras but in the lens only focus on waves from the infrared energy present in all objects onto an infrared sensor array. Thousands of sensors on the array convert the infrared energy into electrical signals, which then create a video image. The infrared camera measures and displays a “thermal profile” of objects in relation to the temperature of surrounding objects. A person, who is warmer than the surrounding air, appears as “white profile” while the cooler surrounding air or buildings will appear in varying shades of gray.
Can a thermal camera be used to detect a virus such as the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
No. Thermal imaging cameras cannot be used to detect or diagnose an infection. However, thermal cameras are used today in public spaces such as airports and hospitals and by essential services as an effective tool for measuring skin surface temperature. People who has elevated skin temperature is suspected to have fever. Thus, extra precautionary steps need to be taken. People who are identified to have an elevated skin temperature can then be screened by medical professionals using additional tools such as an oral thermometer.
Why is fever detection important?
The sole importance of detecting fever is to prevent people who has fever from going to the public spaces. As announced by WHO at the beginning of COVID-19 outbreak, having a fever appears to be one of the symptoms of contracting the deadly virus. By detecting fever, medical professionals could narrow down people who might carry the virus and handle them according to the medical SOP.
How should operators use thermal cameras for skin temperature screening?
Here are several tips to ensure optimal measurement performance from a thermal camera:
- Camera operators should screen people one at a time to look for temperature anomalies.
- Camera operators should measure temperature at the tear duct (inner canthus) as this part provides the closest temperature correlated to human core body temperature.
- A camera operator who detects elevated skin temperature in a person should request such individual to be screened using a device designed specifically for measuring body temperature, such as a thermometer.
What products does ISRAK sells for Elevated Body Temperature screening?
At this moment, ISRAK sells thermal cameras and non-contact thermometers to detect differences in skin surface temperatures. The products are listed as below:
- Economy Contact-less Thermography, JT-66K
- Face Recognition and Temperature Screening Terminal, ARV-FS02
- Fixed-Mount Thermal Cameras, ARV-FS256 and ARV-FS384
How many people can ISRAK thermal camera recognize at the same time?
For ARV-FS02, it can recognize up to 10 persons at the same time. For ARV-FS256/384, it can recognize up to 15 persons at one same time.
Which thermal camera is best for my usage?
It depends on your needs. ARV-FS02 is suitable for enclosed areas and limited entrances such as offices, factories, schools, and commercial buildings. It provides a quick, non-contact temperature screening and can be installed in less than 15 minutes. It can be set up at the entrances and be used as an attendance recording system.
On the other hand, ARV-FS256/384 has a higher resolution camera, higher temperature measurement, provide facial recognition, and a longer measurement range. It can screen more than 15 people per second and would be ideal to be installed in a higher traffic area such as airports, shopping malls, and hotspots with known mass public gatherings.
How accurate are the thermal cameras?
- The accuracy for Arvia ARV-FS02 is +0.3 °C, while the accuracy for ARV-FS256 and ARV-FS384
are +0.5 °C and +0.3 °C (with blackbody) respectively.
Can we use printout picture or wear a mask to fool the face recognition system?
No, it will not work. The devices are equipped with Infrared camera and Binocular (2M). Face recognition algorithm will capture human face thermography signature using the IR camera. The system will then detect if the face is “alive” or just a mere printout or hidden behind a mask.
What is the recognition time for the thermal cameras?
Recognition time for both cameras are 300ms.
What is the non-contact measurement distance?
- Arvia ARV-FS02: The non-contact measurement distance is 1.5 m.
- ARV-FS256/384: The non-contact measurement distance is 15 m.
Do I need to do calibration every time I turn on the camera?
- Arvia ARV-FS02: No, you do not need to calibrate every time you turn on the camera.
- ARV-FS256/384: Yes, if combined with blackbody. For more calibration information about High-end fever screening system, please download the manual at
Do you provide manual booklet for the thermal camera?
Yes. We provide a manual guide for every unit purchased.
What do I do if have a problem with the software or hardware?
We provide support remotely, 8 hours per day for five days per week. You can contact our technical team from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
How long the typical installation and setup of the products would take?
- Arvia ARV-FS02: Less than 15 minutes.
- ARV-FS256/384: Up to 3 to 5 hours.
