Introduction; How It Works - Omega OS880 Series User Manual

1)

Introduction

The OS880-Series handheld infrared thermometer is a non-contact temperature sensing thermometer. It measures from
-30 to 550°C (-22 to 1022°F). This thermometer features a backlit display which is automatically illuminated when the
trigger is pulled and allows working in poor or zero-lighting conditions. The single laser is also automatically active when the
trigger is pulled. The laser is located above the IR sensor to locate the center of the area being measured. The meter
constantly updates the temperature measurement as long as the trigger is held in and will "hold" on the last temperature
seen when the trigger is released. The OS880-Series has adjustable emissivity, min, max, and averaging functions, as well as
high and low alarm capability. This safely measures surface temperatures of hot, hazardous or hard-to-reach objects
without contact.

1.1 How it works

This handheld infrared thermometer measures the surface temperature of an object. The unit's optics sense emitted,
reflected, and transmitted energy which is collected and focused onto a detector. The unit's electronics converts the energy
value into a temperature in °C or °F which is displayed on the digital display. A clean line of sight free of dust or mist is
needed between the sensor and the object. For increased ease of use and accuracy the laser pointer makes aiming even
more precise.
Measurement:
When taking measurement, point the thermometer toward the object to be measured and hold the trigger. The
temperature will be displayed along with the word "Scan" to indicate that the temperature is constantly being updated on
the display. When the trigger is released, the last reading seen will be held on the display. The object under test should be
larger than the spot size calculated by the field of view diagram below.
Field of View:
Field of view, or distance to spot ratio, is the size of an area that can be measured from a specified distance. As the distance
from the object increases, the spot size of the measuring area becomes larger. Make sure the target is larger than the unit's
spot size. When accuracy is critical, ensure that the target is at least twice as large as the spot size. Please see field of view
diagram for the OS880-Series below.
Emissivity:
Most organic materials and painted or oxidized surfaces have an emissivity of 0.95 (pre-set in the unit). Inaccurate readings
will result from measuring shiny or polished metal surfaces. To compensate, cover the measured surface with masking tape
or flat black paint. Measure the tape or painted surface when the tape or painted surface reaches the material
temperature. Please see the Emissivity table below for common emissivity values and adjust accordingly.