FLIR LS-Series Operator's Manual
Model: LS-Series, LS-X, LS-XR
Introduction
The FLIR LS-Series thermal handheld camera provides law enforcement personnel with the ability to see clearly in total darkness. It delivers critical information for quick decision-making, enhancing mission effectiveness, operational capabilities, and officer safety.
The LS-Series camera utilizes a Vanadium Oxide (VOx) microbolometer for high-fidelity thermal imagery, enabling detection and recognition of threats at improved distances, even through smoke, dust, and light fog. Unlike other night vision technologies that require ambient light, LS-Series cameras detect heat signatures, making them effective through camouflage and foliage, and in complete darkness.
The camera generates images from heat, not light, a capability not possible with the naked eye or image-intensified night vision devices. This allows clear visibility of people, animals, and objects based on their heat signatures and contrast, even in adverse conditions.
Visual Comparison: The document shows a comparison between an "Image Intensifier Image" (typically green and grainy) and a "Thermal Camera Image" (showing heat signatures clearly).
LS-Series Camera Features
The LS-Series cameras offer several key features:
- Rugged Design: Built to withstand demanding outdoor use.
- Advanced Microbolometer Sensor: Available with 320x240 resolution for excellent image quality or 640x480 resolution for superior quality.
- Model Specifics:
- LS-X: 336x256 pixel resolution, 19 mm lens, 17° field of view.
- LS-XR: 640x512 pixel resolution, 35 mm lens, 18° field of view.
- Portability: Palm-sized and lightweight, weighing only 12 ounces.
- Embedded Laser Pointer: For targeting or signaling.
- Connectivity: Includes USB Cable for battery charging and a USB/Video Adapter Cable for analog video output to a monitor or video recorder.
- Battery: Rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery providing up to 5 hours of operation on a single charge.
Caution: Do not disassemble the camera enclosure, as this can cause permanent damage and void the warranty. Avoid pointing the camera directly at high-intensity radiation sources like the sun or lasers. Clean optics gently with a soft lens cloth and low-pressure fresh water, avoiding fingerprints.
Getting Started
The LS-Series camera package typically includes:
- The 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 include a Floating Lanyard and a Camera Carrying Pouch.
Charging the Camera
Caution: Ensure the camera is turned OFF during charging. Charge only within a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) to prevent battery damage.
To charge, lift the USB port cover, connect the provided USB cable, and plug the other end into a USB power source. The charging indicator will be orange while charging and turn solid green when fully charged. Initial charge time is approximately 5 hours.
LS-Series Power Management
The camera offers up to five hours of continuous operation. When powered off, the battery can hold a charge for up to two months.
- Power On: Takes approximately 5 seconds to become operational after pressing the Power button. A FLIR splash screen and software version are briefly displayed.
- Auto Shutdown: The camera automatically shuts down after approximately 5 minutes of inactivity. A "Auto shutdown 30s" message appears, followed by a 30-second countdown. Pressing any button during this countdown cancels the shutdown.
Camera States:
| Camera State | How to Know |
|---|---|
| Off | Display is off; Laser Pointer activates when Brightness button is pressed. |
| On | Display is on. If the image is blank, ensure the lens cover is removed. |
Using USB/Analog Video Adapter Cable
To output analog video, connect the adapter cable to the camera's USB connector. Use a separate RCA cable to connect to a monitor or video recorder. The camera detects the adapter and provides the video stream. For recording or remote monitoring, consider disabling the Auto Shutdown feature.
Scout II/LS-X/LS-XR/Ocean Scout End User Tool
FLIR provides a graphical user interface (GUI) called the End User Tool for managing these cameras. It allows for minor configuration changes, such as enabling/disabling camera sounds or adjusting auto-shutdown timers, and can be used for firmware upgrades.
The tool can be downloaded from the FLIR website. Users can select the "Configuration" tab to read and modify camera settings.
Operating Your LS-Series Camera
Camera Features and Controls
The camera features several controls:
- Power Button: Press and hold to turn the camera On or Off.
- Display Brightness Button / Laser Pointer:
- Brightness: Quick presses cycle through five brightness levels.
- Laser Pointer: Press and hold when the camera is Off to activate the laser pointer. When the camera is On, press and hold to activate the laser symbol in the viewfinder, followed by the laser pointer after a short delay. Releasing the button turns off the laser.
- White Hot/Black Hot/Instalert™ Button: Toggles between different display palettes.
- White Hot: Hotter objects appear white/light gray.
- Black Hot: Hotter objects appear black/dark gray.
- Instalert™ Palettes (1-4): Highlight the hottest objects in red for easier detection of animals, people, or objects.
- Zoom Button:
- Cycles through no zoom (full resolution), 2x, 4x, and 8x zoom (8x zoom is LS-XR specific).
- Continuous E-zoom (LS-XR only): Press and hold the zoom button to gradually zoom in until released or 8x magnification is reached. Pressing again zooms out continuously.
- Adjustable Diopter: Located at the eyepiece, this allows adjustment for sharpest image focus. The neutral position is when the lever points away from the camera front.
Laser Safety: The device includes a Class 3R laser pointer. Users must adhere to safety instructions to prevent eye injury. Never shine the laser into eyes or allow it to reflect off surfaces into eyes. Misuse can cause temporary vision impairment. It may be illegal in some areas to aim lasers at law enforcement officers or other individuals. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws.
Laser Emission Parameters: Wavelength: 635-660nm (red laser). Power: < 5mW CW (3.5mW typical). Beam Diameter: < 3mm at aperture. Divergence: < 1mrad. Transverse Beam Mode: TEM00.
Battery
The camera uses a rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery. A battery status indicator is displayed on screen, showing charge level (full, half, plugged in, battery low).
Maintenance
No specific maintenance is required beyond charging. The lens can be gently cleaned with a soft lens cloth and water or isopropyl alcohol. Avoid scratching the lens or leaving fingerprints. The laser pointer requires no user maintenance; if damaged, return the unit to FLIR for repair.
Service
The LS-Series camera is a sealed unit with no user-serviceable parts. All service and repair must be performed by the manufacturer. Do not open or modify the unit. The battery may pose a fire or burn risk if mistreated; do not disassemble, store above 60°C, or incinerate. The camera battery has a 2-year standard warranty (3 years with registration). Battery replacement after warranty may be available from FLIR for a fee.
Technical Data
LS-Series Model Features
| Camera Model | LS-X | LS-XR |
|---|---|---|
| Description | Handheld Thermal Camera with 336x256 pixels resolution and 2x, 4x digital electronic zoom. | Handheld Thermal Camera with 640x512 pixels resolution and 2x, 4x, continuous electronic zoom. |
| Included with all camera models | Lens Cover, USB Cable, USB Power Adapter, USB/Video Adapter Cable, Wrist Strap, Quick Start Guide, Molle Belt Holster | |
Feature
| 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
| Feature | 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
| Target | LS-X | LS-XR |
|---|---|---|
| Detect Man (1.8 m x 0.5 m) | 570 m (623 yd) | 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 |
Note: Actual range may vary depending on camera set-up, environmental conditions, and user experience.
Safety and Compliance
Important Safety Instructions
- DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE DEVICE.
- Read and follow all instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Only use manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
- 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 it 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 enclosing the camera lens and laser assembly.
- Do not operate the laser if the unit is defective or the cover/seal is damaged.
- Caution: Use of controls, adjustments, or procedures other than those specified may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
Laser Safety Information
The LS-Series camera has a built-in laser pointer (Class 3R). Adhere to warnings to prevent eye injury. Eye exposure to laser radiation is a potential hazard. Reflected beams can be as dangerous as direct beams. Never shine the laser into eyes or stare into the beam, as this can cause temporary vision dysfunction (flash blindness, disorientation, glare).
Aiming a laser pointer at law enforcement officers or other individuals is illegal in some jurisdictions. Users are responsible for ensuring their use complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Battery Safety Information
The camera contains a sealed Li-Ion battery. Do not disassemble the camera. Do not store above 60°C or incinerate. The battery is factory replaceable only; contact FLIR for replacement.
Proper Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE)
In accordance with the EU WEEE Directive, EEE products marked with a "crossed out wheeled bin" symbol must not be disposed of in regular waste. They should be responsibly discarded or recycled to prevent environmental harm. Contact local waste services or product suppliers for disposal methods.
FCC and Industry Canada Notices
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits per FCC Part 15, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, which may cause interference if not installed and used per instructions. Users are encouraged to correct interference by reorienting antennas, increasing separation, using different circuits, or consulting a dealer/technician.
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
Billerica
FLIR Systems, Inc.
25 Esquire Road
N. Billerica, MA 01862
PH: +1.888.747.3547 (select option 2 for 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
