David Morey 
Infrared radiation is the part of the Sun’s radiation spectrum that is directly adjacent to the red part of the visible spectrum and can heat most objects.
It can be not easy to understand this information at once if you do not understand the laws of physics well. But the main thing we have to extract from this scientific information is that a person can only feel heat or radiate it. But the human eye is not able to see these radiations.
Although. It was so only up to a certain time. After the British scientist discovered this
phenomenon for himself and the world in 1800, humanity became one step closer to the stories of science fiction. And today, the world has such a device that can give a person such a seemingly supernatural opportunity. And we are talking about a thermal imager. After a large number of experiments since its creation, this device has undergone a rapid and frantic evolution. And today, we use this advanced technology in many industries because this device brings great benefits.
The main element in any thermal imager is a specially designed matrix, which is designed to convert thermal radiation into an electrical signal. A sensitive semiconductor wafer is installed, which changes conductivity depending on the temperature change. The electronic signal goes to the chip or microprocessor, where it is processed and displayed. On the matrix, infrared rays are focused through an optical system. This is the main principle of the device. But if we delve a little more into this topic, we will find many different differences. To distinguish between supervisory, measuring, stationary, high-temperature, and portable thermal imagers. And each of them has proven itself in different areas. But if we are talking, for example, about hunting.
Then we are faced with another issue, which is more related to its appearance and design. Of these, we can distinguish binoculars, monoculars, glasses, and sights that are equipped with the function of seeing in the dark. And not just to see but to show the world in completely different manifestations.
Thermal Imaging Binoculars and Monoculars
We think everyone has a good idea of what ordinary binoculars and monoculars look like. The first one simply has two channels for viewing. The second – one. There are just certain models that are specifically designed to allow the observer to see the radiation of infrared light. Each of them has certain advantages and disadvantages. And everyone chooses the best option based on the purpose of the application.
Monoculars are more popular and affordable just because of their price and general parameters that satisfy the minimum needs of the user. The device can have a detection range from 90 m to 1.5 km (it depends on the model and manufacturer). Its great advantage is its weight (up to 500g); it is compact and mobile. And you use only one hand when working with it. However, for many, a big disadvantage is not a wide viewing angle that it can cover.
Speaking about the advantages of binoculars, we emphasize once again that it is a wider viewing angle. Binoculars can see much further than monoculars, the target is detected at a distance of two kilometers or more. In addition, it is distinguished by its autonomy. So some models can work up to 16 hours. At a time when the work of a monocular is enough only for 6 hours. That is, you constantly need to carry additional batteries. Due to the presence of an additional channel, its weight increases. As well as the price, which is significantly increased in contrast to the previous type of thermal imager.
Thermal Goggles
This is a more adapted option for field conditions. Its main difference from binoculars or monoculars is that it can be attached to the head or helmet. In general, if we consider some individual parameters, it is not quite appropriate. At least for the reason that each manufacturer can offer a specific model that will be distinguished by certain privileges that it can provide. So multiplicity, autonomy, and image quality do not depend primarily on how your thermal imager looks. After all, you can buy for the same money a good monocular that will meet all your needs, while for the same amount, you pay for bad glasses only for the reason of fixing them on your head. Yes, they should be more autonomous, and it makes your work much easier. But also be careful with their weight because they are a serious load on your neck. Therefore, you should not stay in them for a long time.
Thermal Imaging Scopes
This is probably one of the best options. Because you install the sight on your rifle, and as soon as you come across the target, you can get your prey. Under such conditions, you provide yourself with a tactical advantage in the field.
They are smaller in weight and size than the above options, just in order not to overload the rifle. This means that the magnification of objects and the viewing angle they are able to cover will also be smaller.
In general, speaking about such devices, in our opinion, it is not advisable to say that some type has certain advantages and only it is necessary to pay attention to them. When you start choosing the best device, you should focus on the main rule that you choose the best device for yourself. After all, first of all, it must meet your needs and the situations in which you will use it.
For example, if we are talking about ordinary night observations with a thermal imager, then, of course, you will most likely turn your attention to glasses or binoculars. In order to be able to cover more information. We can also use the glasses in everyday life, for example, if there is a need to find the quality of the problem in the heat supply of the house and the tangibility of the tightness of the building. And, of course, a monocular or scope will be much better to use in the field. After all, you have the opportunity to immediately find and hit the designated target.
Each model will differ in its functionality and the quality of the materials used to complete the device, which directly affects the quality of its work, autonomy, weight, quality, and type of image. But still, there are some parameters that unite all thermal imagers of the latest generations. These are advanced features, detail, as well as the ability to record observations.
And if you are a researcher of night nature or want to review your triumph, or vice versa, to find where you made a mistake – this is a nice feature of the device.
In addition, you should remember that despite the quality of the thermal imager, a careless attitude will always reduce its service life. Therefore, it is not enough to know its parameters and capabilities. Before buying a thermal imager, you should also study the rules of its operation.
