Flir ThermovisionPathFindIR Manual

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2 – Introduction
2.6 Full Feature PathFindIR Camera
The Full Feature PathFindIR camera is provided for OEMs and installers who 
want to utilize custom features for their applications. The additional features 
available on the Full Feature PathFindIR camera are selected and set via a LIN 
(local interconnect network) communications channel. The white wire in the 
standard PathFindIR System Cable (308-0159-00) provides the means to 
send the LIN commands to the PathFindIR camera.
The additional custom features pr ovided by the Full F eat ure Pat hF indIR cam era 
include the following:
• Selectable color palettes—white hot, black hot, sepia, and rainbow
• Selectable automatic gain control (AGC)—four AGC settings can be 
selected
• Additional signal outputs for 8-bit digital video data, clock signal, and sync 
signal requires OEM cable 308-0152-00.
• 2× Zoom—The central part of the image is magnified twice its normal size.
• LIN command to restore factory defaults
If you have purchased the Full Feature PathFindIR camera and need 
information on these functions, contact your FLIR representative and request 
the Electrical Interface Control Document (ICD) that describes the connector 
interface and the proper formatting of the commands controlling these 
additional functions. A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is required in order for 
FLIR to provide this document.
Note
The ICD describes the FLIR serial commands for the PathFindIR camera. An 
aftermarket serial to LIN level shifter is required to convert the serial 
commands LIN protocol and may further require client supported software 
(for example an SDK). FLIR does not make recommendations for hardware 
and cannot provide information or support for third party software use or 
modification outside of the information provided in the ICD. 
						

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3 Getting Started
The thermal imaging core inside the PathFindIR camera is completely sealed 
and extremely rugged. The camera has been qualified for operation in all types 
of weather conditions over the specified operating temperature range and 
includes an automatic window heater that will prevent icing under most 
conditions. 
3.1 Using your PathFindIR Camera
The PathFindIR camera is easy to use, but you should take a moment to 
carefully read this section so you fully understand what you are seeing on your 
display monitor. While the imagery you will see on the monitor may look like 
black and white daylight video, it isn’t! A few tips on how to interpret some of 
the imagery will help you to make the most of your system. 
The camera automatically adjusts to changing scene conditions so no 
additional camera control is necessary. Scenes with familiar objects will be 
easy to interpret with some experience. The camera automatically optimizes 
the image to provide you with the best contrast in most conditions.
The thermal imager inside the camera does not sense light like conventional 
cameras; it senses heat or temperature differences. As you experiment with 
the system during nighttime operation, you will notice variances in the “picture 
quality”; this is normal. The camera senses small “differences” in apparent 
radiation from the objects in view, and in the standard configuration displays 
them as either white (or lighter shades of gray) for warmer objects, and black 
(or darker shades of gray) for colder objects. 
3.2 Initial System Startup
The PathFindIR camera requires a standard 12 VDC power source and a 
connection to an external monitor to provide imagery. Make sure to test the 
system prior to installation to assure the system is functioning properly. Be 
sure to remove the protective window sticker prior to test and installation. 
Upon initial power up you will hear a slight clicking sound. This click is the 
internal image correction. This noise is the mechanical shutter assembly which 
will cause the image to momentarily “freeze.” This noise and image freezing will 
occur until the unit has reached a thermally stable temperature and 
periodically thereafter. See “Automatic Shutter” on page 10. 
						

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3.3 Heater Element
The PathFindIR camera has a built-in heating element to stabilize the window 
and prevent ice build-up in cold weather conditions. The heating element is 
automatically turned on when the temperature of the window falls below 4ºC 
and is tuned off when the temperature reaches 6ºC.
3.4 Automatic Shutter 
The PathFindIR camera incorporates 
an automatic image correction 
feature via the internal calibration 
shutter. This shutter will activate every 
2 minutes or more frequently during 
initial start up and large environmental 
temperature changes. During this 
function the image will be “frozen” for 
approximately half a second.
The frozen image will display a small white box in the upper left corner of the 
image during this calibration, as shown in the image above.
3.5 In Case of Difficulty
The PathFindIR camera comes with a 24 month limited warranty from the 
date of purchase. DO NOT OPEN, MODIFY, or ALTER the PathFindIR camera or 
accessories. Doing so will void any warranty and may cause system 
malfunction, loss of performance, fire, or bodily harm.
The PathFindIR system is a highly sophisticated electronic imaging system. 
Should the system fail for any reason do not attempt to fix the system or wiring 
cables yourself. Check wiring connections, power input, video output. If system 
is not performing please contact the manufacture at +1.888.747.3547 or 
+1.805.964.9797 and ask to speak to the service department. You will need 
the serial number of the unit to obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA). 
						

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3 – Getting Started
3.6 Troubleshooting
No Video but the system is running and has power supplied to it.
Place your ear next to the PathFindIR camera. If you hear the mechanical 
shutter (clicking noise, see section 3.2 “Initial System Startup” on page 9) but 
you are not getting an image, check the video connections. The PathFindIR 
camera works with most standard NTSC or PAL monitors that have 75 ohm 
input.
No Video, no clicking.
If video is not displayed and you do not hear a “clicking” sound from the 
PathFindIR camera, check the power inputs. The camera runs on +6 VDC to 
+16 VDC power through one of the optional power/video cables. If this voltage 
range is not adhered to the unit will not function and may be damaged.
The image is cloudy or hazy, or the window has fog or ice built up.
The PathFindIR camera is equipped with an automatic heating element which 
turns on at cold temperatures. The heater requires a few moments to stabilize 
the window. Once the window is thermally stabilized the heating element will 
turn off automatically.
The image has lines or screen door appearance.
Check to see if the image “freezes” or if you hear a mechanical “clicking noise” 
from the PathFindIR camera. If you do not see the image freeze momentarily 
(this may take a few minutes), the internal shutter may be damaged. Contact 
the manufacturer. 
The image is shaky.
Check your mounting. The PathFindIR camera does not incorporate image 
stabilization and must be mounted securely.
Image is dim.
Check your monitor and video connections. It is recommended that you use 
separate power supplies for the PathFindIR camera and the local display 
monitor to make sure you have clean uninterrupted power. Also, verify the 
PathFindIR camera is connected to the 75 ohm input on the monitor. The 
image may be dim if the camera is connected to an input that requires a 
different impedance. 
						

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The image is dark and no objects are seen.
Recycle the power and see if you get the “Splash Screen” (as seen below) on 
the display monitor. If you get the Splash Screen but no image afterwards (only 
a black screen), check to make sure that the window is clear of all obstructions 
(refer to the maintenance section for information on window cleaning). If you do 
not see the Splash Screen, check the power input and video output.
If you see the Splash Screen but no image afterwards, it is possible the 
mechanical shutter is stuck in the on position. Contact FLIR customer service 
for additional help.
Figure 3-1: Startup Splash Screen 
						

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4 Caring for your PathFindIR System
4.1 Product Cleaning
Caution!
Your PathFindIR camera images through an infrared transparent window. This 
window is designed for the harsh automotive environment of normal driving, 
but may require occasional cleaning. FLIR Commercial Vision Systems, Inc. 
suggests that you clean the window of the PathFindIR camera when image 
quality degradation is noticed or excessive contaminant build-up is seen on the 
window. 
Note
The camera housing has a durable coating and the rugged protective window 
is designed to withstand normal cleaning. Rinse the camera housing with low 
pressure fresh water to keep it clean. If the front window of the PathFindIR 
camera gets water spots, wipe it with a clean soft cotton cloth dampened with 
fresh water. If the 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 window by scratching it. Only clean the window when you 
can visually see contamination on the surface.
4.2 Temperature
The PathFindIR camera has an operating temperature range of -40 to 80oC. 
Choose an installation location so that the PathFindIR camera is not subject to 
temperature extremes that exceed this range.  Do not open the camera body for any reason. Disassembly of the camera 
(including removal of the cover) can cause permanent damage and will void the 
warranty.
During normal use the camera window may become scratched or develop 
small pits. These usually will not cause a noticeable degradation of the 
displayed image. 
						

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4.3 Maintenance
If you have problems do not attempt to repair the PathFindIR system yourself. 
The PathFindIR camera is a water-tight sealed unit and can not be opened or 
serviced in the field. Consult your installation dealer or FLIR Systems Inc. for 
repair information. 
If the camera will not produce an image, check the video connection at the 
camera and at your display monitor. If the connectors appear to be properly 
engaged but the camera still does not produce an image, have an authorized 
service representative make the appropriate repairs.
Caution!
Improper care of the camera window can cause damage to the anti-reflective 
coating, degrade the camera’s performance, and void the camera warranty.
Figure 4-1: Front Window
Front
Window 
						

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5 Options and Accessories
5.1 Accessories
Camera options and accessories are subject to change. Refer to the FLIR web 
site http://www.flir.com or contact your local dealer to obtain up-to-date 
information regarding available accessories such as mounting kits, monitor 
options, cables, and accessories.
PathFindIR System Cable: 308-0159-00
The standard 20-foot system cable ensures a sealed connection to the 
PathFindIR camera—a requirement for harsh vehicle environments. The cable 
has a sealed PathFindIR connector at one end; two power leads (red and 
black), a communications lead (white), and a BNC video connector at the other 
end.
For standard operation the white communications lead can be clipped off or 
dressed back and secured out of the way—it is not used. Refer to paragraph 
2.6 “Full Feature PathFindIR Camera” on page 7 for a description of 
applications that utilize the PathFindIR camera communications feature.
12 VDC (+)
Communications
Video output
To  C a m e r a
12 VDC (-)Red Black White 
						

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PathFindIR Universal Mounting Bracket: 261-1470-00
The Universal Mounting Bracket is shown below with the PathFindIR camera 
inserted, but not secured. The bracket has mounting holes on all four sides 
providing flexibility in choosing a mounting location. The camera has two pivot 
posts that are inserted into slots allowing about 45° of adjustment. A kit of 
mounting hardware is provided with the bracket. There are two M4 × 0.7 
metric screws with washers and lockwashers to secure the camera to the 
bracket and four ¼ × 20 bolts and lockwashers for attaching the bracket to 
the vehicle.
Universal Mounting Bracket
PathFindIR camera
Pivot post
Screw slot
¼ × 20 threaded insert
sixteen places