Uncooled thermal cameras detect long-wave infrared (LWIR) radiation from 8–14µm without a cryogenic cooler. This makes them compact, lower cost and faster to start compared with cooled detectors, which is why they dominate industrial, security and consumer thermal products.
What is a VOx microbolometer?
A vanadium oxide (VOx) microbolometer converts absorbed infrared energy into an electrical signal. Each pixel changes resistance with temperature, and the readout circuit turns that into a thermal image. Our cores use a 640×512 VOx focal plane array with 12µm pixel pitch.
Why 12µm pixel pitch matters
Smaller pixels allow a higher-resolution detector in a smaller package, or a longer focal length lens for the same field of view. A 640×512 array at 12µm is a good balance of detail, sensitivity and cost for OEM designs.
NETD and frame rate
NETD (noise equivalent temperature difference) describes thermal sensitivity. Our modules achieve ≤40 mK. A 50 Hz frame rate gives smooth video for moving scenes such as drones and handheld observation.
Integration basics
Start with power, video and lens. The JM611A1C outputs CVBS; the JM609A1C adds USB 2.0 and UART control. Pair with an LWIR lens matched to your required field of view and mounting distance.