Imaging Cameras & Sensors – Thermal Camera
USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module
High-Performance USB-Enabled LWIR Thermal Imaging Camera Module for Precision Monitoring and Embedded Vision Solutions
The USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module is a compact and powerful thermal vision core designed for easy integration into a wide range of systems requiring precise temperature detection and thermal monitoring. Featuring a high-sensitivity uncooled long-wave infrared (LWIR) detector with advanced image processing, this module delivers clear, high-contrast thermal images that reveal subtle heat differences in real time. With a robust USB-C interface for power and video output, fast start-up, and a lightweight footprint, it is ideal for industrial inspection, security monitoring, UAV integration, and intelligent automation applications where reliable thermal sensing enhances safety, quality control, and situational awareness.
Understanding USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module
This USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module incorporates an uncooled LWIR microbolometer sensor that captures infrared radiation in the 8–14 µm spectrum and converts it into a detailed thermal image. The module’s detector typically has a 640 × 480 pixel resolution and high sensitivity, enabling detection of even small temperature variations. Built-in FPGA image processing enhances visual quality through gain control and noise reduction. Its USB-C connection supports both power and data transfer, simplifying integration with computers, embedded systems, and vision platforms. The compact design and interchangeable lens options provide flexibility for diverse applications requiring efficient and accurate thermal imaging.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Detector Type | Uncooled LWIR microbolometer |
| Spectral Band | 8 – 14 µm |
| Sensor Resolution | 640 × 480 px |
| Pixel Size | ~17 µm |
| Thermal Sensitivity (NETD) | < 30 mK or < 50 mK |
| Frame Rate | 9 Hz, 30 Hz, or 60 Hz |
| Scene Temp. Range | High Gain: −50 °C to +160 °C; Low Gain: −50 °C to +600 °C |
| Start-Up Time | < 5 s |
| Dimensions | ~40.1 × 37.8 × 42.6 mm |
| Weight | < 81 g |
| Interface | USB-C (video & power) |
Key Features and Advantages
High Thermal Resolution and Sensitivity
The module’s 640 × 480 pixel LWIR detector delivers detailed thermal images with precise representation of heat patterns. With sensitivity levels better than 30 mK, it can reveal subtle temperature differences essential for quality inspection and anomaly detection.
Advanced On-Board Image Processing
Built-in FPGA processing enhances raw thermal data via automatic and manual gain controls, spatial and temporal filtering, and support for multiple palette views. This improves scene clarity and helps extract meaningful insights from complex thermal environments.
USB-C Connectivity for Power and Data
The USB-C interface simplifies deployment by combining video output and power delivery in a single cable, reducing wiring complexity and enabling easy integration with computers, embedded systems, and robotic platforms.
Fast Start-Up and Responsive Operation
With a start-up time of less than 5 seconds, the module ensures rapid readiness for thermal monitoring tasks. The flexibility of frame rates (9 Hz, 30 Hz, or 60 Hz) supports both smooth real-time display and export-friendly performance modes.
Compact and Lightweight Design
Measuring approximately 40 × 38 × 43 mm and weighing under 81 g, this module is optimized for integration into space-constrained systems such as UAVs, handheld instruments, and compact surveillance units without adding significant weight or volume.
Wide Temperature Detection Range
With selectable high and low gain modes, it can capture temperatures from −50 °C up to +600 °C, making it suitable for general thermal inspection as well as high-temperature industrial processes.
Applications Across Industries
Industrial Inspection and Predictive Maintenance
In manufacturing environments, the USB thermal module helps detect overheating components, mechanical friction, and electrical faults before they lead to critical failures. It enables non-contact temperature monitoring across conveyors, motors, and electrical panels for preventive maintenance.
Security and Surveillance Systems
By visualizing heat signatures, the module enhances perimeter security and intruder detection in total darkness or adverse weather. Its USB-C interface allows easy connection to monitoring stations or embedded security appliances.
Unmanned Systems and Robotics
The compact, lightweight design is ideal for integration into UAVs, UGVs, and autonomous robots. It provides thermal awareness for navigation, search and rescue operations, and environmental sensing where traditional cameras are limited.
Building Diagnostics and Energy Audits
Facility managers use thermal imaging to identify insulation losses, HVAC issues, and water leaks. The detailed thermal output helps pinpoint inefficiencies in building envelopes and energy systems.
Smart Monitoring and IoT Devices
As part of IoT-enabled infrastructure, the module can feed thermal data to analytics platforms for smart monitoring of equipment health, environmental conditions, and process control in automated systems.
Research and Development
Researchers across materials science, electronics, and thermal engineering leverage high-resolution thermal imagery to study heat transfer, thermal uniformity, and dynamic temperature changes in prototypes and test setups.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
United Spectrum Instruments provides expert support for integrating advanced thermal imaging technologies like the USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module into your systems. With deep domain knowledge in photonics, imaging, and sensor technologies, USI assists with product selection, system configuration, installation, and customisation for your application needs. Our local technical support, training, and after-sales service ensure you achieve accurate, reliable performance from day one. Whether for industrial automation, security systems, unmanned platforms, or research projects, partnering with United Spectrum Instruments means access to world-class thermal imaging solutions backed by responsive service and industry expertise.
FAQs
What spectral range does this thermal camera module support?
It operates in the long-wave infrared range from 8 µm to 14 µm, enabling effective thermal detection without visible light.
What resolution does the sensor provide?
This module features a 640 × 480 pixel LWIR detector for detailed thermal imaging.
Can the module detect small temperature differences?
Yes, with thermal sensitivity better than 30 mK, it can reveal minor heat variations in many applications.
What interface does the module use?
The module uses a USB-C interface for both video output and power supply, simplifying connectivity.
Is this module suitable for integration into drones or robots?
Absolutely. Its compact dimensions, lightweight design, and rapid start-up make it ideal for UAVs, UGVs, and robotic systems.
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FAQs
What spectral range does this thermal camera module support?
It operates in the long-wave infrared range from 8 µm to 14 µm, enabling effective thermal detection without visible light.
What resolution does the sensor provide?
This module features a 640 × 480 pixel LWIR detector for detailed thermal imaging.
Can the module detect small temperature differences?
Yes, with thermal sensitivity better than 30 mK, it can reveal minor heat variations in many applications.
What interface does the module use?
The module uses a USB-C interface for both video output and power supply, simplifying connectivity.
Is this module suitable for integration into drones or robots?
Absolutely. Its compact dimensions, lightweight design, and rapid start-up make it ideal for UAVs, UGVs, and robotic systems.






