Introduction
The FLIR LS-Series thermal handheld camera provides law enforcement personnel the ability to see clearly in total darkness, delivering critical information for quick decision-making, enhanced mission effectiveness, maximized operational capabilities, and improved officer safety.
The LS-Series camera features a Vanadium Oxide (VOx) microbolometer, delivering excellent, high-fidelity thermal imagery with the detail necessary for cutting-edge performance. It allows users to detect and recognize threats at improved distances, in total darkness, and through obscurants like smoke, dust, and light fog.
Unlike technologies that rely on visible light, LS-Series cameras detect heat, making them effective against camouflage and foliage, and unaffected by suspects wearing dark clothing or hiding in bushes. They offer superior performance compared to other night vision technologies, enabling clear vision without any ambient light and the detection of heat sources invisible to other devices. People, animals, and objects are clearly seen due to their inherent heat signatures and contrast, even in the most adverse conditions.
Image Comparison: A visual comparison shows an 'Image Intensifier Image' (typically green and grainy) versus a 'Thermal Camera Image' (displaying heat signatures).
LS-Series Camera Features
Diagram: Image of the FLIR LS-Series camera with a label pointing to the 'LASER APERTURE'.
Key camera features include:
- Rugged design built to withstand outdoor use.
- Advanced microbolometer sensor array with 320x240 resolution for excellent image quality, or 640x480 resolution for superior quality.
- LS-X models: 336x256 pixel resolution, 19 mm lens with a 17° field of view.
- LS-XR models: 640x512 pixel resolution, 35 mm lens with an 18° field of view.
- Palm-sized portability and lightweight design (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 operation on a single charge.
⚠️ Caution! Do not disassemble the camera enclosure. Disassembly can cause permanent damage and void the warranty. Do not point the camera directly at extremely high-intensity radiation sources, such as the sun, lasers, or arc welders. Avoid leaving 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 may include various features, options, and accessories. Refer to the enclosed packing list for exact contents. In addition to the camera, Quick Start Guide, and Documentation CD, typical items include:
Diagrams of included accessories: USB Cable, Lens Cover, USB/Video Adapter Cable, USB Power Adapter Set, Wrist Strap, and Molle-Compatible Belt Holster. Optional accessories shown are a Floating Lanyard and a Camera Carrying Pouch.
Charging the Camera
⚠️ Caution! To ensure proper charging, LS-Series cameras must be turned OFF throughout the charging cycle. Charging should only be done when the camera temperature is between 0°C and 40°C (32°F to 104°F) to prevent battery damage.
The camera battery should be fully charged before use. To charge, lift the cover from the USB port, plug in the provided USB cable, and connect the other end to a USB power source.
- When charging correctly, the charging indicator will be lit orange.
- When fully charged, the charging indicator will light solid green. The initial charge time is approximately 5 hours.
Diagram: Illustrates the USB port and the camera's charging indicator, showing orange for charging and green for fully charged.
LS-Series Power Management
The LS-Series camera features a power management system offering up to five hours of continuous operation. When left in the Off state, the battery can hold a charge for up to two months. Understanding the camera's power states is key to optimal use.
- When turned on from the Off state, the camera becomes operational in about five seconds. 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. The display shows 'Auto shutdown 30s,' counting down for 30 seconds before shutting off. Pressing any button during this countdown will terminate the shutdown sequence and resume normal operation.
| Camera State | How do you know? |
|---|---|
| Off | The display is off. The Laser Pointer may activate when the Brightness button is pressed. |
| On | The display is on. If the image appears blank, ensure the lens cover is removed. |
Using USB/Analog Video Adapter Cable
To obtain analog video output, insert the adapter cable into the USB connector. The camera will detect the adapter and provide the video stream. Connect an RCA cable to a monitor or video recorder.
Diagram: Shows the LS-Series camera connected via the USB/Video adapter cable to a customer-supplied RCA cable.
When using the USB/Analog Video Adapter cable for recording or remote monitoring, 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) compatible with FLIR handheld thermal imaging cameras including Scout II Series, LS Series, and Ocean Scout. These cameras are often 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.
Diagram: Screenshots of the FLIR End User Tool GUI, illustrating navigation and configuration options like Auto Shutdown, InstAlert, and Video Format (NTSC/PAL).
Operating Your LS-Series Camera
Diagram: Labeled illustration of the FLIR LS-Series camera controls, including Power, Display Brightness/Laser On/Off, Zoom, Eyepiece, USB/Charging/Analog Video out port, White hot/Black hot/Instalert, and Adjustable Diopter. Includes laser safety warning labels.
Control Buttons
- Power Button: Press and hold to turn the camera On or Off. [power-button-icon]
- Display Brightness Button / Laser Pointer:
- When the camera is on, quick presses cycle through five brightness levels (lowest to highest, then back down).
- 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, followed by the laser pointer. Releasing the button turns off the laser. [brightness-laser-button-icon]
- White Hot/Black Hot/Instalert™ Button: Toggles between two video modes (White Hot, Black Hot) and four Instalert™ color palettes. Instalert™ palettes highlight the hottest objects in red for easier detection of animals, people, and objects. [settings-button-icon]
- Zoom Button: Switches between no zoom (full resolution), 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom (8x zoom is LS-XR models only). The selected zoom level is indicated on the display. [zoom-button-icon]
- Continuous E-zoom (LS-XR models only): Press and hold the zoom button to gradually zoom in up to 8x. Releasing the button stops zooming. Pressing again zooms out continuously. The 'E' icon indicates Continuous E-zoom mode is active.
- Diopter Controls: An adjustment lever allows for fine-tuning image sharpness in the eyepiece. The neutral position is when the lever points straight away from the camera front.
Battery
Your LS-Series camera uses a sophisticated power system with a rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery.
Diagram: Icons representing battery status: [full-charge], [half-charge], [plugged-in], [battery-low].
Auto Shutdown Operation
Auto Shutdown is a feature designed to prevent premature battery drain by automatically turning the camera off when the following conditions are met:
- The camera is On.
- No buttons have been pressed for approximately five minutes.
The display will show 'Auto shutdown 30s,' counting down for 30 seconds before shutdown. Pressing any button during this countdown will terminate the process and resume normal operation.
? Note: Pressing a button during the Auto Shutdown countdown only aborts the shutdown; it does not perform the button's normal function.
Maintenance
The LS-Series camera requires minimal maintenance, primarily charging the battery. If necessary, gently clean the lens with a soft lens cloth and water or Isopropyl alcohol. Avoid scratching the lens or leaving fingerprints on the optics.
No maintenance is needed or allowed on the laser pointer. If it is damaged, do not operate the laser; return the camera to FLIR for repair to avoid exposure to laser emissions.
Service
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.
The internal battery may pose a risk of fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not disassemble the camera, store it above 60°C, or incinerate it.
The camera battery has a 2-year standard warranty, or 3 years with registration, from the date of purchase. After warranty expiration, FLIR may offer battery replacement services for a nominal fee. Contact your FLIR dealer or distributor for details.
Technical Data
LS-Series Model Features
| Camera Model | LS-X | LS-XR |
|---|---|---|
| Description | LS-Series Handheld Thermal Camera with video resolution of 336x256 pixels and 2x and 4x digital electronic zoom. | 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 | 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 | LS-X: NTSC 60Hz or <9Hz Refresh rate; LS-XR: NTSC 30Hz or <9Hz Refresh rate |
| Image Processing | NTSC composite video out through USB port via USB/Video Adapter Cable to RCA cable. NTSC/PAL switchable using GUI available from FLIR website. |
| Focus, Zoom | FLIR Proprietary Digital Detail Enhancement Fixed focus; 2x, 4x electronic zoom (and 8x on LS-XR models only) |
| Display Palettes | White Hot, Black Hot, InstAlert™; selectable |
| Power | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Internal Li-Ion |
| Battery Life Operating (Stand-By) | Approximately 5 Hours at 25°C, (120 hours) |
Environmental
| Parameter | 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
| Parameter | 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
| Parameter | LS-X, LS-XR |
|---|---|
| Field of View (FoV) | LS-X: 17° x 13° NTSC LS-XR: 18° x 14° NTSC |
Range Detection
| Detection Target (1.8 m x 0.5 m) | LS-X | LS-XR |
|---|---|---|
| Detect Man | 570 m (623 yd) | 1140 m (1247 yd) |
Note 1: Actual range may vary depending on camera set-up, environmental conditions, and user experience.
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 |
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. As with any laser pointer, it is important to adhere to the following warnings and safety instructions to prevent injury. If the included instructions are not followed, there is a potential hazard of eye exposure to laser radiation. A beam 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. Pointing a laser pointer into a person's eyes, or staring directly at the laser beam, 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.
Class 3R Laser Safety Statement: LASER LIGHT ⚠️ AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE. CLASS 3R LASER PRODUCT. <5mW 635-660nm CW. EN/IEC 60825-1 2007. Complies with FDA performance standards for laser products except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007. 1. Emission of a parallel beam of visible light; 2. Maximum Power of < 5mW CW, wavelength 635-660 nanometers.
Battery Safety Information
The LS-Series camera is a sealed unit with sensitive electronics and contains no user-serviceable parts. Service or repair is to be performed only by the manufacturer. The camera unit must not be opened or modified by the user or owner in any manner or for any reason.
The battery used in this device may present a risk of fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not disassemble the camera, store above 60°C, or incinerate. The battery is factory replaceable only; return the camera to the manufacturer for battery replacement.
Proper Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE)
The European Union (EU) has enacted Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE), which aims to prevent EEE waste from arising; to encourage reuse, recycling, and recovery of EEE waste; and to promote environmental responsibility.
In accordance with these regulations, all EEE products labeled with the '[crossed-out-bin]' symbol, either on the product itself or in the product literature, must not be disposed of in regular rubbish bins, mixed with regular household or other commercial waste, or by other regular municipal waste collection means. Instead, and in order to prevent possible harm to the environment or human health, all EEE products (including any cables that came with the product) should be responsibly discarded or recycled.
To identify a responsible disposal method where you live, please contact your local waste collection or recycling service, your original place of purchase or product supplier, or the responsible government authority in your area. Business users should contact their supplier or refer to their purchase contract.
Industry Canada Notice
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Avis d'Industrie Canada: Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Contact Information and Legal Notices
This document is controlled to FLIR Technology Level 1. The information contained in this document pertains to a defense article controlled for export by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). FLIR trade secrets contained herein are subject to disclosure restrictions as a matter of law. Diversion contrary to US law is prohibited. US Government authorization for public release has been obtained from the Office of Security Review, authorization no. 15-S-2035. Additional US Department of State authorization is not required prior to export or transfer to foreign persons or parties, unless otherwise prohibited.
© 2015 FLIR Surveillance All rights reserved worldwide. No parts of this manual, in whole or in part, may be copied, photocopied, translated, or transmitted by any electronic medium or in machine readable form without the prior written permission of FLIR Surveillance.
Names and marks appearing on the products herein are either registered trademarks or trademarks of FLIR Surveillance and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, trade names, or company names referenced herein are used for identification only and are the property of their respective owners.
This product is protected by patents, design patents, patents pending, or design patents pending.
For questions not covered in this manual or for service, contact FLIR Surveillance customer support:
- Phone: 888.747.3547, select option 2 at the prompt (“Handheld Products”)
- Email: gsbos.service@flir.com
- Website: www.flir.com
This documentation is subject to change without notice.
FLIR Systems, Inc. Locations:
- Billerica: 25 Esquire Road, N. Billerica, MA 01862, PH: +1.888.747.3547
- Portland (Corporate Headquarters): 27700 SW Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR 97070, USA, PH: +1 503.498.3547
- Belgium: FLIR Systems, Luxemburgstraat 2, 2321 Meer, Belgium, PH: +32 (0) 3665 5100
