FLIR LS-Series Operator's Manual
This document provides comprehensive operating instructions and technical data for the FLIR LS-Series thermal handheld cameras.
Introduction
The FLIR LS-Series thermal handheld camera provides law enforcement personnel with the ability to see clearly in total darkness, enhancing situational awareness, decision-making, mission effectiveness, operational capabilities, and officer safety.
Equipped with a Vanadium Oxide (VOx) micro bolometer, the LS-Series camera delivers excellent, high-fidelity thermal imagery with the detail necessary for cutting-edge performance. Users can detect and recognize threats at improved distances, in total darkness, and through obscurants like smoke, dust, and light fog.
Unlike technologies that rely on ambient light, LS-Series cameras see heat, not light, making them effective against camouflage and in any lighting conditions. They are not fooled by suspects wearing dark clothing or hiding in bushes. This capability allows users to see clearly without any visible light, identifying people, animals, and objects by their heat signatures and contrast, even in the most adverse conditions.
Description of Image: A comparison showing an 'Image Intensifier Image' with a green-tinted view and a 'Thermal Camera Image' displaying heat signatures.
LS-Series Camera Features
The LS-Series cameras are designed for rugged outdoor use and offer advanced features:
- Advanced microbolometer sensor array with 320x240 resolution for excellent image quality and clarity, or 640x480 resolution for superior image quality and clarity.
- Specific models include: LS-X with 336x256 pixel resolution and a 19 mm lens with a 17° field of view; LS-XR with 640x512 pixel resolution and a 35 mm lens with an 18° field of view.
- Palm-sized portability and lightweight design, weighing only 12 ounces.
- Embedded Laser Pointer ?
- USB Cable for battery charging.
- USB/Video Adapter Cable for analog video output to a monitor or video recorder.
- Rechargeable Internal Li-Ion battery providing up to 5 hours of camera operation on a single charge.
Caution!
- Do not disassemble the camera enclosure. Disassembly can cause permanent damage and will void the warranty.
- Do not point the camera directly at extremely high-intensity radiation sources, such as the sun, lasers, or arc welders.
- Be careful not to leave fingerprints on the camera's infrared optics. Clean only with low-pressure fresh water and a lens cloth.
Getting Started
The LS-Series camera package typically includes:
- LS-Series Camera
- Quick Start Guide
- Documentation CD
- Lens Cover
- USB Cable
- USB/Video Adapter Cable
- USB Power Adapter Set
- Wrist Strap
- Molle-Compatible Belt Holster
Optional accessories available include a Floating Lanyard and a Camera Carrying Pouch.
Charging the Camera
Caution!
To ensure proper charging, LS-Series cameras should be turned OFF throughout the charging cycle. Charging must only be done when the camera temperature is between 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F) to prevent battery damage.
The camera battery should be fully charged before use. Connect the USB cable to the camera's USB port and the other end to a USB power source. The charging indicator light will be orange while charging and solid green when fully charged. Initial charge time is approximately 5 hours.
Description of Image: A diagram showing the USB port on the camera and indicating the charging indicator light, which shows orange when charging and green when fully charged.
LS-Series Power Management
The camera features a power management system offering up to five hours of continuous operation. When powered off, the battery can hold a charge for up to two months.
- When turned on, the camera takes approximately five seconds to become operational. The FLIR splash screen and software version are briefly displayed during bootup. The Power button toggles the camera between On and Off.
- The camera automatically shuts down after approximately five minutes of inactivity. A countdown message "Auto shutdown 30s" appears before shutdown. Pressing any button during this countdown will abort the shutdown.
| Camera State | How do you know? |
|---|---|
| Off | The display is off. The Laser Pointer can be activated by pressing the Brightness button. |
| On | The display is on. If the image appears blank, ensure the lens cover is removed. |
Using USB/Analog Video Adapter Cable
To output analog video, connect the USB/Video adapter cable to the camera's USB connector. The camera will detect the adapter and provide a video stream. Use a customer-supplied RCA cable to connect to a monitor or video recorder.
Description of Image: A diagram showing the LS-Series camera connected to a USB/Video adapter cable, which is then connected to a customer-supplied RCA cable.
When using the adapter cable for video output, it may be beneficial to disable the camera's Auto Shutdown feature.
Scout II/LS-X/LS-XR/Ocean Scout End User Tool
The FLIR PS/MS/TH/LS End User Tool is a graphical user interface (GUI) used with FLIR handheld thermal imaging cameras, including the Scout II Series, LS Series, and Ocean Scout. These cameras are sometimes referred to as "Cayman" cameras.
This software allows users to make minor configuration changes, such as enabling/disabling camera sounds or adjusting the auto-shutdown timer. It can also be used for camera firmware upgrades.
To download the GUI, visit: www.flir.com/law-enforcement/display/?id=50727 and select the end user tool under Software.
Description of Image: Screenshots of the FLIR End User Tool GUI. One shows the 'Status Summary' and 'Configuration' tabs, detailing connection status and settings like Auto Shutdown. Another shows the 'Configuration Features' with options for Auto Shutdown, InstAlert, Composite Video, Button Backlight, and Maritime Red, along with Video Format (NTSC/PAL).
Operating Your LS-Series Camera
Camera Features and Controls
The LS-Series camera features several controls for operation:
- Power Button: Press and hold to turn the camera On or Off.
- Display Brightness Button / Laser Pointer: Cycles through five levels of display brightness. When the camera is Off, press and hold to turn on the laser pointer. When the camera is On, press and hold to activate the laser symbol in the viewfinder and then the laser pointer.
- White Hot/Black Hot/Instalert™ Button: Toggles between different color palettes: White Hot (hotter objects are white/light gray), Black Hot (hotter objects are black/dark gray), and four Instalert™ palettes (highlighting hottest objects in red).
- Zoom Button: Switches between no zoom (full resolution), 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom (8x zoom is available on LS-XR models only).
- Continuous E-zoom (LS-XR models only): Pressing and holding the zoom button allows gradual zooming up to 8x magnification. Releasing the button or pressing another button stops the zoom.
- Eyepiece: For viewing the thermal image.
- Adjustable Diopter: Allows adjustment for optimum image sharpness in the eyepiece.
Description of Image: A diagram of the LS-Series camera showing the location of controls: Power, Display Brightness/Laser On/Off, Zoom, Eyepiece, USB/Charging/Analog Video out, White hot/Black hot/Instalert, and Adjustable Diopter.
Control Buttons Details
Power Button
Press and hold to turn the camera On or Off.
Display Brightness Button / Laser Pointer
When the camera is on, quick presses cycle through five brightness levels. Subsequent presses cycle up or down depending on the current level. Icons indicate the current brightness level.
When the camera is Off, press and hold this button to turn on the laser pointer. When the camera is On, press and hold to activate the laser symbol in the viewfinder, followed by the laser pointer approximately one second later. Releasing the button turns off the laser pointer and removes the symbol.
White Hot/Black Hot/Instalert™ Button
This button toggles between the White Hot, Black Hot, and four Instalert™ color palettes. The Instalert™ palettes highlight the hottest objects in red to simplify detection. Icons indicate the selected palette.
Description of Image: Icons representing White Hot (W), Black Hot (B), and Instalert™ palettes (1-4).
Zoom Button
Switches between zoom levels: no zoom, 2x, 4x, and 8x (LS-XR only). Icons indicate the selected zoom level (e.g., 8X, 4X, 2X).
Continuous E-zoom (LS-XR models only)
On LS-XR models, pressing and holding the zoom button initiates a continuous zoom. The camera zooms gradually until the button is released or 8x magnification is reached. Pressing another button disables Continuous E-zoom.
Description of Image: The 'E' icon indicating Continuous E-zoom mode is active.
Diopter Controls
The diopter adjustment lever allows for fine-tuning image sharpness in the eyepiece. The neutral position is when the lever points straight away from the camera's front.
Description of Image: A close-up of the diopter adjustment lever on the eyepiece.
Battery and Maintenance
Battery
The LS-Series camera uses a rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery.
Battery Status Indicator: A visual indicator in the display estimates the remaining battery charge. The indicators show:
- Full charge ?
- Half charge ?
- Plugged in ?
- Battery low ?
Auto Shutdown Operation
Auto Shutdown is a feature designed to prevent premature battery drain. The camera automatically turns off if it is On and no buttons have been pressed for approximately five minutes. A countdown message "Auto shutdown 30s" appears before shutdown. Pressing any button during the countdown aborts the shutdown.
Note: Pressing any button during an Auto Shutdown countdown only terminates the countdown and aborts the shutdown; it does not perform the button's normal function.
Maintenance
The LS-Series camera requires minimal maintenance, primarily charging the battery. The lens can be gently cleaned with a soft lens cloth and water or isopropyl alcohol. Avoid scratching the lens or leaving fingerprints on the optics.
No maintenance is permitted on the laser pointer. If it is damaged, do not operate it due to potential laser emission hazards. Return the camera to FLIR for repair.
Service
The LS-Series camera is a sealed unit with no user-serviceable parts. All service and repairs must be performed by the manufacturer. Do not open or modify the camera unit.
The internal battery may pose a fire or chemical burn risk if mistreated. Do not disassemble, store above 60°C, or incinerate the camera.
The camera battery is covered by a 2-year standard warranty (3 years with registration) from the date of purchase. Battery replacement after warranty expiration may be available from FLIR for a nominal fee. Contact your FLIR dealer or distributor for details.
Technical Data
LS-Series Model Features
| Camera Model | Description |
|---|---|
| LS-X | LS-Series Handheld Thermal Camera with video resolution of 336x256 pixels and 2x and 4x digital electronic zoom. |
| LS-XR | LS-Series Handheld Thermal Camera with video resolution of 640x512 pixels and 2x, 4x, and continuous electronic zoom. |
| Included with all camera models | Lens Cover, USB Cable, USB Power Adapter, USB/Video Adapter Cable, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, and Molle Belt Holster |
Feature Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Start up | < 5 seconds |
| Thermal Sensitivity, Waveband | < 50 mK @ f/1.0, 7.5 - 13.5 μm |
| Detector Type | VOx Microbolometer |
| Resolution / Display | LS-X: 336x256 pixels LS-XR: 640x512 pixels 640x480 pixels LCD |
| Video Output | NTSC composite video out through USB port via USB/Video Adapter Cable to RCA cable. NTSC/PAL switchable using GUI available from FLIR website. |
| Image Processing | FLIR Proprietary Digital Detail Enhancement |
| Focus, Zoom | Fixed focus; 2x, 4x electronic zoom (and 8x on LS-XR models only) |
| Display Palettes | White Hot, Black Hot, InstAlert™; selectable |
Power Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Internal Li-Ion |
| Battery Life Operating (Stand-By) | Approximately 5 Hours at 25°C, (120 hours) |
Environmental Specifications
| Environment | LS-X and LS-XR |
|---|---|
| Camera Operational Temp. | -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) |
| Laser Operational Temp. | 4°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C) |
| Storage Temp. | -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C) |
| Ingress Protection Rating | IP-67, submersible up to 1 meter |
| Drop Test Rating | 1 meter drop |
Physical Specifications
| Physical | LS-X, LS-XR |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12 oz. (340 g) with battery |
| Size (L x W x H) | 6.70" x 2.31" x 2.44" (172 x 58.7 x 62 mm) |
Field of View
| Field of View | LS-X, LS-XR |
|---|---|
| Field of View (FoV) | LS-X: 17° x 13° NTSC LS-XR: 18° x 14° NTSC |
Range Detection
| Detect Man (1.8 m x 0.5 m) | |
|---|---|
| LS-X | 570 m (623 yd) |
| LS-XR | 1140 m (1247 yd) |
Laser Emission Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wavelength | 635-660nm, red laser |
| Laser Power for classification | < 5mW CW (3.5mW typical) |
| Beam Diameter | < 3mm at aperture |
| Divergence | < 1mrad |
| Transverse Beam Mode | TEM00 |
1 Actual range may vary depending on camera set-up, environmental conditions, and user experience.
Safety Information
Class 3R Laser Safety Statement
LASER LIGHT
AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE
CLASS 3R LASER PRODUCT
<5mW 635-660nm CW
EN/IEC 60825-1 2007
This laser device complies with International Standard EN/IEC 60825-1: Ed. 2, 2007-3, Class 3R Laser Product and also complies with FDA performance standards for laser products except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007.
- Emission of a parallel beam of visible light;
- Maximum Power of < 5mW CW, wavelength 635-660 nanometers;
Important Safety Instructions
- DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE DEVICE.
- Read and follow all instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Only use the attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- All service must be provided by the manufacturer.
- Use extreme caution when the laser pointer is on.
- Do not point the beam toward anyone's eye or allow the beam to strike the eye from a reflective surface.
- Do not use the laser near explosive gases or in other potentially explosive areas.
- Do not modify or remove the front end cap that encloses the camera lens and laser assembly.
- Do not operate the laser if the unit is defective or the cover or seal is damaged.
- Caution: Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
Laser Safety Information
The LS-Series camera includes a built-in laser pointer. Adhere to the following warnings and safety instructions to prevent injury. Failure to do so may result in eye exposure to laser radiation. Beams reflected off mirror-like surfaces can act like a direct beam on the eye.
Never shine a laser pointer into a person's eyes, or stare into the laser beam. This can cause instant temporary vision dysfunction such as flash blindness, disorientation, or glare.
In some states and provinces, it is illegal to aim a laser pointer at a law enforcement officer or any other person. The purchaser/user is responsible for ensuring that their use of the laser pointer conforms with all applicable federal, state, or local laws.
This Laser Product is designated as Class 3R during all procedures of operation. Refer to "Laser Emission Parameters" on page 15 for laser specifications.
Battery Safety Information
The LS-Series camera is a sealed unit with sensitive electronics and no user-serviceable parts. Service or repair must be performed only by the manufacturer. The camera unit must not be opened or modified by the user or owner.
The battery may present a risk of fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not disassemble, store above 60°C, or incinerate it. The battery is factory replaceable only; return the camera to the manufacturer for battery replacement.
Contact Information
Billerica
FLIR Systems, Inc.
25 Esquire Road
N. Billerica, MA 01862
PH: +1.888.747.3547, select option 2 at the prompt (Handheld Products)
Email: gsbos.service@flir.com
www.flir.com
Portland (Corporate Headquarters)
FLIR Systems, Inc.
27700 SW Parkway Ave.
Wilsonville, OR 97070 USA
PH: +1 503.498.3547
FX: +1 503.498.3153
Email: sales@flir.com
Belgium
FLIR Systems
Luxemburgstraat 2
2321 Meer
Belgium
PH: +32 (0) 3665 5100
Document Information
Document: 431-0010-21-10
Revision: 110
Language: English (US)
Date: July 2015
