<title>FLIR Systems Today</title>

Abstract

FLIR systems have evolved since 1964 to the point that they represent a proven extension of man's sensory perception. Understanding of the technologies relevant to this sensory extension has also developed to an advanced point. For each generic application of thermal imaging there are peculiar tradeoffs relative to detectors, image formation, signal processing, and display. Civil aviation, law enforcement and resource management, among others, suggest applications of modern FLIR equipment. Improved performance and increased reliability have made feasible new applications of thermal imaging. Cost, however, remains to be reduced before any of these new systems will find wide acceptance. Techniques do exist to significantly reduce FLIR cost without sacrificing performance. All of this will be discussed and FLIR imagery will be shown to validate many points.