HT-18 Plus Thermal Imaging Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the HT-18 Plus Thermal Imaging Camera. This device is designed for non-contact temperature measurement and thermal imaging, providing a visual representation of heat distribution. It is an essential tool for professionals in various fields, including electrical inspection, building diagnostics, HVAC, and automotive maintenance. With its 256x192 thermal pixel resolution and wide temperature range, it offers reliable and accurate thermal analysis.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before using this product to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to the device or injury to yourself.

• Do not point the camera directly at strong heat sources (e.g., the sun, lasers) as this may damage the infrared detector.
• Keep the device dry. Do not expose it to rain, moisture, or liquids.
• Do not operate the device in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Use only the specified charging accessories.
• Do not attempt to open or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Ensure the operating environment is within the specified temperature and humidity ranges.

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your HT-18 Plus thermal imaging camera.

Main Components:

• Infrared Lens: Captures thermal radiation.
• LCD Display: Shows thermal images, temperature readings, and menu interface.
• Control Buttons: (MENU, SELECT, ENTER, Up/Down/Left/Right arrows) For navigating menus and adjusting settings.
• Trigger: For capturing images or starting/stopping video recording.
• Battery Compartment: Houses the rechargeable battery.
• USB Port: For charging and data transfer.

4. Setup

4.1 Unpacking

Carefully remove the thermal imaging camera and all accessories from the packaging. Verify that all items are present and undamaged.

4.2 Charging the Battery

The HT-18 Plus includes a rechargeable battery. Before first use, fully charge the device.

1. Locate the USB charging port on the device.
2. Connect the provided USB cable to the camera and a suitable USB power adapter (not always included) or a computer USB port.
3. The charging indicator will show the charging status. Allow the device to charge until the indicator shows a full charge.

4.3 Powering On/Off

• To Power On: Press and hold the power button (usually located near the display or trigger) for a few seconds until the screen illuminates.
• To Power Off: Press and hold the power button again until the device shuts down.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Operation

Once powered on, the camera will display a live thermal image. Point the camera at the object or area you wish to inspect. The screen will show the temperature distribution, often with a central spot meter indicating the temperature at the center of the view.

5.2 Menu Navigation

Use the 'MENU' button to access the main settings. Use the directional arrow buttons (Up, Down, Left, Right) to navigate through menu options and 'SELECT' or 'ENTER' to confirm selections.

5.3 Measurement Modes and Settings

• Spot Temperature: Displays the temperature of a specific point, usually the center of the screen.
• Emissivity Adjustment: Emissivity is crucial for accurate temperature readings. Different materials have different emissivities. Adjust this setting in the menu according to the material being measured. Common values are often pre-set (e.g., 0.95 for most organic materials, 0.60 for painted surfaces, 0.10 for polished metals).
• Temperature Units: Switch between Celsius (℃) and Fahrenheit (℉) in the settings menu.
• Color Palettes: Select different color schemes (e.g., Iron Red, Rainbow, Black Hot, White Hot) to visualize temperature differences more effectively.

5.4 Image Capture and Storage

To capture a thermal image:

1. Frame the desired thermal image on the screen.
2. Press the trigger or the designated capture button.
3. The image will be saved to the internal memory or an inserted memory card (if applicable).
4. Access saved images through the 'Gallery' or 'Playback' option in the menu.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

• Lens: Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optical lenses. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Screen: Wipe gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn smudges, use a screen cleaning solution.
• Casing: Clean the exterior with a damp cloth. Avoid getting moisture into ports or openings.

6.2 Storage

• Store the camera in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• If storing for extended periods, ensure the battery is partially charged (around 50%) to prolong its lifespan.
• Keep the lens cap on when not in use to protect the lens.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device won't turn on: Ensure the battery is charged. If the battery is low, connect the charger and try again.
• Image is blurry or unclear: Check if the lens is clean. Ensure the object is within the camera's focus range (if adjustable).
• Temperature readings seem inaccurate: Verify that the emissivity setting is correct for the material being measured. Ensure the ambient temperature is stable and not affecting the sensor.
• Device freezes or is unresponsive: Try performing a soft reset by holding the power button until the device restarts. If the issue persists, contact customer support.

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• Understand Emissivity: Always adjust the emissivity setting to match the material you are inspecting for the most accurate temperature readings. Incorrect emissivity is a common source of measurement errors.
• Maintain Distance: While thermal cameras are non-contact, ensure you are at an appropriate distance for the camera's field of view and focus capabilities to get clear images.
• Environmental Factors: Be aware of environmental factors like wind, humidity, and reflective surfaces, which can affect thermal readings.
• Regular Charging: Keep the battery charged, especially before critical inspections, to avoid interruptions.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.