NCJ Number
228669
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2009 Pages: 35,36,38,40
Date Published
July 2009
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features of the newest thermal technology and how it improves law-enforcement capabilities in a number of areas.
Abstract
Thermal technology allows its users to capture and view a heat signature, while an electric process transfers that signature to a visual image. Unlike night vision, thermal imaging can "see through" smoke and dust; and it is not restricted by vegetation and light brush. The device can be used day or night, and with ongoing upgrades, the picture continues to get sharper. In newer models, the imaging performance is four times the resolution of cameras previously on the market. New units also have other built-in electronic features, such as digital wireless transmission that allows users to transmit video to remote locations, onboard image storage for JPEG images, and movie recording. New designs are also touting all-in-one use on a number of applications, handheld units, and a goggle system for hands-free operation. Some systems are weapons-mountable, helmet-mountable, or capable of use as a weapons sight. As heat patterns are captured with precise clarity over a long range, sometimes up to a mile and a half, the most popular use continues to be large area searches for missing persons or escaping or hiding suspects. For large police departments, these devices are used daily on helicopters and in hostage/barricade situations. These devices can detect heat signatures left by hot tires, exhaust, engine compartments, and anything that retains heat on a vehicle, making it is easy for users to determine which vehicle has recently been operated. As the price tag for thermal imaging devices continues to decline under higher volume use in civilian vehicles, users can get a better quality and more stable camera at a lower price.