TOOLTOP ET15C Industrial Thermal Imager User Manual

1. Introduction

The TOOLTOP ET15C is an industrial-grade thermal imager designed for a wide range of applications, including underfloor heating leak detection, HVAC maintenance, power system inspections, electronic repairs, and general industrial inspections. Featuring a 256x192 resolution thermal imaging sensor and a broad temperature measurement range of -20℃ to +550℃, this portable device provides clear and accurate thermal data. Its 3.5-inch IPS large screen and 15 selectable color palettes enhance visualization, while optional macro lens support allows for detailed inspection of small components like PCB boards.

Figure 1: TOOLTOP ET15C Thermal Imager highlighting its core capabilities.

2. Safety Information

• Always operate the device within its specified operating temperature and humidity ranges (0～50℃, <85%RH non-condensing).
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or corrosive environments.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this may void the warranty and cause damage.
• When using the macro lens, ensure it is properly attached and removed as needed to prevent blurry images in normal use.
• The thermal imager performs a mechanical calibration approximately every 10 seconds to ensure accuracy. This may cause a brief lag (1-3 seconds) in the display, which is normal and not a malfunction.

3. Package Contents

Please check the package for the following items:

• 1 x TOOLTOP ET15C Thermal Camera
• 1 x USB Type-C Cable
• 1 x English User Manual
• 1 x Instrument Storage Bag
• 1 x Macro Lens (Optional, included only with specific versions)

Figure 2: Standard accessories included with the ET15C Thermal Imager.

4. Product Overview

4.1 Key Features

• High Resolution: 256x192 IR pixels for detailed thermal imaging.
• Wide Temperature Range: Measures from -20℃ to +550℃ (-4℉ to 1022℉).
• Large Display: 3.5-inch IPS screen with 320x480 resolution for clear viewing.
• Versatile Color Palettes: 15 selectable color palettes for various visualization needs.
• Optional Macro Lens: For precise inspection of small components (e.g., 1mm x 1mm details on PCBs).
• Long Battery Life: Detachable 18650 Lithium-ion battery provides up to 8 hours of operation.
• PC Software Support: Allows for data transfer and analysis of thermal images.
• Multi-language Support: Available in 11 languages including English, Chinese, German, Russian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, Italian, and Polish.
• Over-temperature Alarm: Sound and light alarm function for critical temperature detection.

Figure 3: The 3.5-inch ISP large screen provides a clear view of thermal data.

4.2 Components and Controls

Figure 4: Innovative button functions for convenient operation.

• Power Button: Press and hold for 3 seconds to turn on/off the device.
• MENU Button:
  • Short press: Record screen, display center temperature.
  • Long press: Clear records, display temperature value.
• MARK/REMOVE Button:
  • Short press: Take a screenshot and save it.
  • Long press: Flashlight switch.
• HOLD/SAVE Button:
  • Short press: Keep current display.
  • Long press: Switch color palette.
• USB Type-C Port: For charging and data transfer.
• Macro Lens Slot: For attaching the optional macro lens.

5. Setup

5.1 Battery Installation and Charging

The ET15C uses a detachable 18650 Lithium-ion battery. To install or replace the battery, open the battery compartment cover located on the back of the device. Insert the 18650 battery with the correct polarity. Close the cover securely.

To charge the device, connect the supplied USB Type-C cable to the device's USB port and to a standard USB power adapter (not included). The device supports reliable USB charging and provides up to 8 hours of continuous operation on a full charge.

Figure 5: The ET15C features a built-in, replaceable 18650 Lithium battery with up to 8 hours of battery life.

5.2 TF Card Installation

The device includes a pre-installed 4GB TF card for storage. It supports a maximum of 64GB TF card (not included). To install or replace the TF card, locate the TF card slot, insert the card gently until it clicks into place. Ensure the device is powered off before inserting or removing the TF card.

5.3 Macro Lens Attachment (Optional)

If your version includes the optional macro lens, it can be used for close-up observations. The macro lens slides left and right to switch freely. For optimal performance, the macro lens working distance is approximately 5cm. For other situations where the target is further away, remove the macro lens; otherwise, images may appear blurry.

Figure 6: The optional macro lens for detailed inspection of small components.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power On/Off

To power on the device, press and hold the power button for 3 seconds. To power off, repeat the same action.

6.2 Basic Thermal Imaging

Once powered on, the device will display a live thermal image. Point the camera at the object you wish to inspect. The screen will show temperature readings, including center, highest, and lowest temperature points, which are automatically tracked.

Figure 7: Three-point temperature measurement with automatic tracking.

6.3 Color Palettes

The ET15C offers 15 different color palettes to visualize thermal data. To switch between palettes, long press the HOLD/SAVE button. Available palettes include:

• White Heat
• Black Heat
• Fusion 1
• Rainbow
• Fusion 2
• Iron Red 1
• Iron Red 2
• Dark Brown
• Color 1
• Color 2
• Ice Fire
• Rain
• Green Heat
• Red Heat
• Deep Blue

Figure 8: Examples of the 15 color palette modes.

6.4 Emissivity Adjustment

Emissivity (ε) is a measure of an object's ability to emit infrared energy. The ET15C allows adjustment of emissivity from 0.1 to 0.99 (default is 0.95). Adjusting this value based on the material being inspected can improve measurement accuracy. Refer to standard emissivity tables for common materials.

6.5 Over-temperature Alarm

The device features an over-temperature sound and light alarm. If the detected temperature reaches a set threshold, the alarm will trigger, providing a timely reminder to prevent potential hazards.

Figure 9: The over-temperature sound and light alarm in action.

6.6 PC Software and Data Transfer

The ET15C can connect to a computer via its USB Type-C interface for data reproduction and analysis. Screenshots saved on the device's TF card can be easily transferred to a PC. The PC software can be downloaded from: http://doctuchuang.eirbio.cn/FR02E_EN/IR-DMM.zip

Figure 10: Connecting the ET15C to a computer for data analysis.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device's body. For the lens, use a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Care: If the device will not be used for an extended period, remove the 18650 battery and store it separately in a cool, dry place. Recharge the battery periodically to maintain its health.
• Storage: Store the thermal imager in its protective storage bag in a dry environment with a temperature range of -20℃ to 60℃ (-4℉ to 140℉).
• Software Updates: Regularly check the manufacturer's website for any available firmware or software updates to ensure optimal performance and new features.

8. Troubleshooting

• Image Blurry: If images appear blurry, especially when inspecting distant objects, ensure the optional macro lens is removed. The macro lens is designed for close-up work (approx. 5cm working distance).
• Display Lag: A brief lag of 1-3 seconds may occur approximately every 10 seconds. This is due to the thermal imaging detector undergoing mechanical calibration for accuracy and is considered normal operation.
• Device Not Powering On: Check if the battery is correctly installed and sufficiently charged. If the issue persists, try replacing the battery.
• Inaccurate Readings: Verify that the emissivity setting is appropriate for the material being measured. Ensure there are no obstructions between the camera and the target.
• PC Software Connection Issues: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the device and the computer. Reinstall the PC software if necessary.

9. Specifications

Figure 11: Model comparison of thermal imagers, highlighting ET15C specifications.

Figure 12: Comprehensive specifications for various thermal imager models.

10. User Tips

• PCB Inspection: For detailed inspection of PCB circuit boards, it is highly recommended to use the version that includes the macro lens. Remember to remove the macro lens for general use to avoid blurry images.
• Floor Heating Leak Detection: The ET15C is effective for non-destructive testing of floor heating water pipe leaks. A common method involves pressurizing branches, injecting hot water, checking system condition after 20 minutes, setting emissivity to 0.9-0.95, identifying anomalies, and then repairing leaks.
• Automotive Diagnostics: Utilize the thermal imager for quick diagnostics in automotive maintenance, such as checking engine components, brakes, or electrical systems for abnormal heat signatures.
• Electrical Cabinet Inspection: The high resolution of the ET15C makes it suitable for inspecting distribution cabinets, identifying overheating components or loose connections.

Figure 13: Example of floor heating water pipe leak detection.

Figure 14: Detailed example of underfloor heating detection method.

Figure 15: Example of circuit board inspection method.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your original point of purchase or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.