Due to some technical issues with my Flir E60 I had to reload the camera software from Flir. After successfully updating the camera's software the digital zoom feature was no longer available. During a discussion with Flir they informed me that they had come across some "technical" difficulties with the digital zoom processing and the latest update to the firmware had eliminated that function. I'm not sure what the ramifications of using the digital zoom if your camera still has the function but I thought I'd put the info out for any E60 users. Anybody from Flir have any updates on this issue?
"I'm not sure what the ramifications of using the digital zoom if your camera still has the function but I thought I'd put the info out for any E60 users"
Hi,
The issue with digital zoom is that it does not increase your resolution (i.e. your ability to detect or measure hot spots) at a particular distance. It just simply magnifies the array and blows it up, "zooming you in". The only way one can truly "zoom" in is by either 1) getting closer or 2) using a telephoto lens.
Here's one example of what can happen with digital zoom both in terms of its affect on Spatial Resolution (i.e. am I close enough to see the hot spot?) and Measurement Resolution (am I close enough to measure temperature?).
Edit: Forgot to add...the image on the right is the "digital" zoom result. The one on the left is using a telephoto lens. Notice the impact on image quality and temperature measurment.
Matt Schwoegler
The Snell Group
I don't disagree with what you posted. I rarely use digital zoom for just those reasons. My point was that some users of the E60 cameras might not be aware that Flir has found some issues with their camera and the digital zoom function and have pulled it from the camera. From the conversation I had with Flir I was left with the impression that is more than just the generic measurement/spatial resolution issue.
I might have misunderstood your question...I thought you were asking what the "ramifications are" of using a digital zoom. Other than the how the image appears on the screen, I'm not sure what else digitial zoom would impact, if anything. It just zooms in...that's it. Is there something else you're concerned might be impacted? If so, there isn't anything that I can think of related to that feature.
If it is just a zoom issue I'm curious why they would eliminate that function from the updated camera software. Any Flir guys have any input?
Check with FLIR Support. They usually respond to inquiries the same day. Or give them a call and talk to a tech. They'll answer all your questions for you.
Linas Dapkus
Chicago Infrared Thermal Imaging Inc.
Infraspection Institute Level III Thermographer # 8510
Building Science Thermographer
FLIR T 400
Soooo, do you now have a camera with zoom equipment but unable to work because of the new software?
Dave Oshust Level I Portage la Prairie, MB., CANADA www.ggtia.com
That's correct. The digital zoom option in the on screen menu has gone away.
I only asked because I have the new E60bx and it has zoom. It seems to work, but I never use it because of the reduced clarity of the picture when it's in zoom mode. I wish they would have sent a wide angle lens instead.
The digital zoom feature was temporarily removed from the Exx-Series cameras due to some problems we found with the camera firmware. Once the issues are resolved the feature will be added via a firmware update. Customers can subscribe to the RSS feed to be notified about camera updates: support.flir.se/.../camfeed.xml.
FLIR Tools can be used to update the Exx-Series cameras using the USB connection: support.flir.com/.../RssSWDownload.aspx.
Digital zoom does not improve the measurement spot size, it simply magnifies the pixels and it can be done using the PC software. A telephoto lens can be used if you need to optically magnify the image.
We apologize for the inconvenience. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me or visit our Support Center website at http://support.flir.com.
Regards,
Jason Gagnon
FLIR Systems, Inc.
jason.gagnon@flir.com
Will Flir compensate the owners of the E series with telephoto lens?
An update is now available for the E-Series (v. 1.43.23) that will restore the digital zoom function. You can upgrade the camera using FLIR Tools:
support.flir.com/.../RssSWDownload.aspx. Click Help, Check for Updates and follow the instructions.
If you have any problems with the update please submit a question to our Support Center website and we will be happy to assist you: flir.custhelp.com/.../ask.