Flir ThermovisionMDSeries Installation Manual

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 Installing MD-Series Systems
The JCU enclosure is rated IP66 above the JCU mounting surface/gasket and 
rated IP64 behind or below the gasket.
Caution : An installation template is provided  in the JCU ICD. If the template is 
printed from the PDF file, ensure it is pr inted to the correct scale by checking the 
dimensions prior to cutting any holes.
1.Using the JCU template su pplied as a guide in MD-Series ICD, mark the 
location of the rectangular  opening that will allow the JCU to be recessed in the 
vessel’s control console. Ensure the  corners are marked precisely and cut 
square. 
2.Apply the adhesive side of the rubber ga sket to the back of the JCU on the 
surface that faces the mounting platform. The JCU comes with 4 panel 
mounting clamps that can be reversed when the thickness of the panel 
material is less than 0.79 cm (5/16 or 0.31 in); see instructions below. Ensure 
the mounting clamps are rotated inward and are recessed so the entire JCU 
fits into the hole
3.Remove boots from both ends of the Ethernet cable, as it may interfere with 
the coupling gland. The boot may cause the RJ45 coupler tab to depress, 
which can lead to intermittent connections.
4.Loosen or remove the cable gland nut on the JCU, and insert the Ethernet 
cable RJ45 coupler through the gland nut. Once the Ethernet cable is 
connected to the JCU, replace the glan d nut and turn the nut 1/4 turn beyond 
hand tight.
5.Insert the JCU into the hole and secure by turning the 4 corner screws 
clockwise. Rotate each screw one full turn and ensure the mounting clamps 
are rotated outward from the JCU housing. Tighten the screws to draw the 
mounting clamps up against the mounti ng surface and then tighten another 
quarter or half turn. Do not over tighten the screws.
Mounting the JCU to a Thin Panel 
As shipped from the factory, the JCU can be mounted to dash thicknesses 
ranging from 0.79 – 4.45 cm (0.31 – 1.75 in). The clamps are set with the small 
foot on the clamp facing away from the pa nel and toward the front of the JCU, as 
shown below.
If the JCU is mounted to a panel of 0.79  cm (0.31 in) thickness or less, remove the 
clamps from the mounting screws, turn them around and thread them back onto 
each of the four screws. In this configurat ion, the clamp foot faces the rear of the 
mounting surface and allows the clamp to co ntact thinner panel surfaces while still  
						

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30432-0010-00-12 Rev 100 — MD-Series Installation Guide 
allowing for proper compression of the JCU mounting gasket to form a watertight 
seal. 
						

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CHAPTER 2MD-Series Reference 
Introduction
This chapter includes the following reference information:
• A summary of maintenance procedures
• A table of camera specifications
• Information about standards referenced during the installation procedure
• A glossary of acronyms 
• A table comparing features of various MD-Series models
MD-Series Maintenance
The MD-Series components are designed for years of rugged, trouble-free use. 
Cleaning the Camera Optics
Great care should be used with the cameras optics. They are delicate and can be 
damaged by improper cleaning. The MD-Series thermal camera lenses are 
designed for the harsh outdoo r environment and have a coating for durability and 
anti-reflection, but may require cleaning occasionally. FLIR Systems Inc. suggests 
that you clean the lens when image qualit y degradation is noticed or excessive 
contaminant build-up is seen on the lens. 
Rinse the camera housing and optics with low pressure fresh water to remove any 
salt deposits and to keep it clean. If th e front window of the camera gets water 
spots, wipe it with a clean soft cotton  cloth dampened with fresh water. If the  
						

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window requires further cleaning, use a soft moist cotton-based cloth with 
isopropyl alcohol or dish soap.
Do not use abrasive materials, such as paper or scrub brushes as this will 
possibly damage the lens by scratching  it. Only wipe the lens clean when you 
can visually see contamination on the surface.
Cleaning the Camera Body
Do not use a pressure washer to clean the camera, as that could force water 
through the camera seals. Clean underneath the dome periodically to prevent the 
accumulation of debris or salt.
If you have a problem with the thermal ca mera, do not attempt to repair it. The 
MD-Series camera is a sealed unit and, apart from removing the dome, cannot 
be opened or serviced in the field. Consult the installation dealer or FLIR 
Systems Inc. for repair information.
Caution:  The MD-Series is designed with a removable dome, but the inner 
camera is sealed at the factory against  liquid water, suspended particulates, and 
other contaminants. It is important that you not open the camera for any reason, 
as it will compromise this seal and  possibly damage the unit. Opening the 
MD-Series camera will void th e manufacturer’s warranty.
Cleaning the JCU
If you have installed an optional JCU, use  a soft cloth and clean water to clean it. 
Mild household cleaner such as Windex can also be used to remove tougher 
stains or spots. Do not use alcohol based  cleaners or any type of solvents as this 
may discolor or damage the unit.
When the system is not in use, keep the JCU cover in place for additional 
protection. 
						

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 MD-Series Reference
MD-Series Specifications
Table 2.1 lists details about physical characteristics, power usage, and 
environmental features of the MD-Series camera. 
Table 2.1  Specifications
Physical Characteristics
Camera Size 5.2 cm (6 in) di ameter, 17.8 cm (7 in) tall
Camera Weight Under 1.4 kg (3 lb), depending on the camera model
Joystick Size 9.1 X 14.2 X 8.13 cm (3.6 X 5.6 X 3.2 in) 3.17 cm (1.25 in) above platform including joystick
Joystick Weight .45 kg (1 lb)
Power
Camera Input Power from 
PoE  12 – 24 V DC nominal, 2 A Max
Absolute range 10 – 32V DC
(–10%/+30% per IEC 60945)
JCU Input Power Power over Ethernet (PoE) per IEEE 802.3af
Consumption (camera and 
FLIR PoE injector) 
						

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External Standards
Table 2.2 lists other sources of information and standards definitions that may be 
useful during the installation of the MD-Series camera.
Table 2.2  External References
Standard Description
ANSI/SCTE 01 2006 “F” 
Port, Female, Outdoor  http://www.scte.org
IEC  60169-24 Radio-frequency coaxial connectors with screw coupling,  typically for use in 75 Ohm cable distribution systems 
(Type F)
IEC  60945  Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment  and systems general requirements
IEC 60529  Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IPX6)
IEC 60068  Basic Environmental Testing Procedures, Part 2: Tests
89/336/EEC  Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) directive
Directive 2002/95/EC  Restriction of the us e of certain hazardous substances in 
electrical and electronic equipment (European Union)
Directive 2002/96/EC  Waste Electrical  and Electronic Equipment Reg. 2006
TIA/EIA T568B  CAT5/RJ-45 wiring standard
IEEE 802.3 / IEEE 802.3u  10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet
IEEE 802.3af    Power over Ethe rnet (PoE) standard (48V/400mA/
15.4W)
ANSI/SMPTE 170M - 1994  Composite Anal og Video Signal (Supersedes RS-170A)
Directive 96/98/EC  Marine Electronics Directive (MED) 
						

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 MD-Series Reference
Acronyms 
Table 2.3 lists each acronym that is used in this manual and its meaning. 
Table 2.3  Acronyms
Acronym/Term Definition
AGC Automatic Gain Control
ANSI American National Standards Institute 
EAR Export Administra tion Regulations
EMI Electromagnetic Interference
FFC Flat Field Correction
FLIR Forward Looking Infrared
FoV Field of View
FPS Frames per Second (refresh rate)
HFoV Horizontal Field of View
ICD Interface Control Document
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
IP Internet Protocol
IR Infrared or thermal
JCU Joystick Control Unit
MFD Multifunction display
NMEA National Marine Electronics Association
NTSC National Television System Committee
PAL Phase Alternating Line
PoE Power over Ethernet
SCTE Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers 
VDC Volts, Direct Current 
						

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Feature Comparison of MD-Series Models 
Table 2.4 lists the two MD-Series models and supported features. Each model is 
available in four variations, identified by a unique part number:
• 
						

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 MD-Series Reference
Troubleshooting Tips
This section includes information that may help you with common issues that may 
arise during operation of the MD-Series system.
Video not displayed on monitor 
If the camera will not produce an image, check the video connection at the 
camera and at the display. If the connectors appear to be properly connected but 
the camera still does not produce an image, ensure that power has been properly 
applied to the camera and circuit breaker is set properly. If a fuse was used, be 
sure the fuse is not blown. 
Check the wiring at the electrical panel. Ensure that the contacts are clean, dry 
and free from corrosion. If maintenance on  the wiring connection is required, have 
an authorized service representative make the appropriate repairs.
If the camera still d oes not produce an image, contact the FL IR dealer or reseller 
who provided the camera, or contact FLIR directly (contact information is provided 
on the back cover of this manual).
Cleaning
If the camera lens has become smudged or dirty, clean it with low-pressure fresh 
water and a soft cloth. Improper care of  the camera window can cause damage to 
its anti-reflective coating, degrade the camera’s performance, and void the 
camera warranty.
The camera housing has a durable marine coating. Rinse the camera housing 
with very low-pressure fresh water to  keep it clean. If the front window of the 
camera gets water spots, wip e it with a clean lens cloth folded in fourths and 
dampened with fresh water.
Noisy image
A noisy image is usually attributed to a cable problem—too long or inferior 
quality—or the cable is picking up electromagnetic interference (EMI) from 
another device. Although coax cable has built -in losses, the longer the cable is or 
the smaller the wire gauge/thickness, t he more severe the losses become; and 
the higher the signal frequency, the more pronounced the losses. Unfortunately 
this is one of the most common and unnecessary problems that plagues video 
systems in general.
Cable characteristics are determined by a number of factors such as core 
material, dielectric material and shield construction, among others and must be 
carefully matched to the specific a pplication. Moreover, the transmission 
characteristics of the cable will be infl uenced by the physical environment through 
which the cable is run and the method of installation. Use only high quality cable 
and ensure the cable is suitable to the marine environment. 
						

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Check cable connector terminations. Inferior quality connections may use 
multiple adapters that can cause unacceptable noise. 
Image too dark or too light
By default, the MD-Series thermal camera uses an automatic gain control (AGC) 
setting that has proven to be superior for  most applications. However, a specific 
environment may benefit from a different AG C setting. For example, a very cold 
background (such as the sky) could cause the camera to use a wider 
temperature range than appropriate. You should keep the ocean, and not the sky 
or the boat, as the predominant object in the image. Refer to the  MD-Series 
Operator’s Manual  for information about how to make adjustments to the image.
Performance varies wi th time of day
You may observe differences in the way the  camera performs at different times of 
the day, due to the diurnal cycle of the su n. Recall that the camera produces an 
image based on temperature differences. 
At certain times of the day, such as just before dawn, the objects in the image 
scene may all be roughly the same temper ature, compared to other times of the 
day. Compare this to imagery right after sunset, when objects in the image may 
be radiating heat energy that has been  absorbed during the day due to solar 
loading. Greater temperat ure differences in the scene generally will allow the 
camera to produce high-contrast imagery. 
Performance may also be affected when ob jects in the scene are wet rather than 
dry, such as on a foggy day or in the early morning when everything may be 
coated with dew. Under these  conditions, it may be difficult for the camera to 
show the temperature the object itself, rather than of the water coating.
Eastern or Western exposure
While a boat is under way, the camera  may inevitably end up pointing directly 
east or west, and this may cause the sun to be in the field of view during certain 
portions of the day. We do not recommend  intentionally viewing the sun, but 
looking at the sun will not permanently da mage the sensor. In fact the thermal 
imaging camera often provides a considerable advantage over a conventional 
camera in this type of back-lit situation. 
However, the sun may introd uce image artifacts that will eventually correct out 
and it may take some time for the camera to recover. The amount of time needed 
for recovery will depend on how long t he camera was exposed to the sun. The 
longer the exposure, the longer  the recovery time needed. 
Image freezes momentarily
The camera has a feature that lets you  momentarily freeze the image. How you 
do this depends on the device you are using to control the camera. When an 
image is frozen, a snowflake image icon  appears on the screen. Any any other 
action with the control devi ce will unfreeze the image.