Do you know How to Use a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer? A non-contact infrared thermometer is a thermometer that uses infrared technology to measure an object or person’s thermal radiation without the need for any physical contact to be made.
This is incredibly useful when measuring the temperature of mechanical and electrical equipment or when dealing with sick patients.
Using a non-contact thermometer is an effective and convenient way to read the external temperature of an object or person from a distance.
These types of thermometers use infrared energy to detect thermal radiation coming from the surface of an object or person, making them non-invasive tools that are easy to use if you know what you’re doing.
In this article, we have provided an ultimate guide for non-contact infrared thermometers to help you understand their benefits and how to use them properly. Keep reading to learn more!
Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer
A non-contact infrared thermometer is a device that measures temperature without having to touch the object being measured. Instead, it uses infrared radiation emitted by the object to determine its temperature.
The thermometer typically has a lens that focuses the infrared radiation onto a detector, which converts the energy into an electrical signal that is then displayed as a temperature reading on the thermometer’s screen.
Non-contact infrared thermometers are commonly used in medical settings to quickly and easily measure a person’s temperature without having to make physical contact, which can help prevent the spread of infections. They are also used in industrial settings to measure the temperature of machinery and equipment without having to shut it down or touch it, which can be useful for preventative maintenance and troubleshooting.
How to Use Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer?
Non-contact infrared thermometers are incredibly simple to use when accounting for nearby objects and a particular material’s emissivity. Here is a step-by-step guide for how to operate a non-contact thermometer effectively for an accurate temperature reading:
1. Clean the thermometer with a soft, damp cloth and 70% alcohol
2. Place the thermometer at least three inches away from the person or object you are measuring
3. Point the thermometer at the center of the person or object you are measuring
4. Press the power button to turn the temperature on, and wait for the temperature reading to appear
5. Once the temperature reading appears, you can record it or compare it to a reference temperature
6. When you are finished, turn off the thermometer and clean it again with a soft, damp cloth and 70% alcohol
Advantages of Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Over Contact Thermometer
Contact and non-contact thermometers read temperatures differently and both have their uses.
The main difference is that a contact thermometer requires physical contact because it uses conduction to measure an object or person’s internal temperature.
Alternatively, a non-contact thermometer uses infrared technology to measure the thermal energy emitted from an object or person’s surface, reading the external temperature.
There are several advantages to using a non-contact thermometer over a contact thermometer, including:
1. The ability to use the thermometer from a distance, without having to make physical contact with the person or object
2. The ability to measure an object that is in motion or that has moving parts
3. There is never a risk of contamination of the thermometer because it does not touch the person or object
4. The ability to measure the temperature of an object that is physically inaccessible
5. The ability to measure temperature accurately and quickly without any wait time
We hope that this ultimate guide for non-contact infrared thermometers helped you better understand the benefits of using these tools and how to use them in a way that is accurate, safe, and incredibly simple.
How Accurate Are Non-Contact Infrared Thermometers?
Infrared thermometers are extremely accurate when being used correctly. Emissivity is measured on a scale from 0.00 – 1.00.
When accounting for emissivity and being aware of the nearby object that might interfere with a temperature reading, you can rely on the accuracy of a non-contact thermometer’s temperature reading.
Thermometers that feature adjustable emissivity rather than fixed emissivity, such as the ThermoPro TP30 Digital Infrared Thermometer Gun, are the most accurate and dependable option.
This feature allows the user to adjust the emissivity to account for whatever type of material they are trying to measure the temperature of. You will be able to use an adjustable thermometer on just about any surface material and know that your reading is precise.
How Does a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Work?
The non-contact thermometer is simply pointed in the direction of the person or object from a distance, and a laser emitted from the thermometer helps the user find a precise target to measure.
Then, the thermometer measures the thermal radiation coming off of the object it is pointed at and displays a temperature reading on the screen. It’s as simple as that!
Because a non-contact thermometer reads thermal radiation, it measures the object’s surface temperature rather than the internal temperature. It does not penetrate the surface but rather gathers information by sensing the heat coming off of the object itself.
How Does a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Work?
The non-contact thermometer is simply pointed in the direction of the person or object from a distance, and a laser emitted from the thermometer helps the user find a precise target to measure.
Benefits of NCITs
The non-contact approach may reduce the risk of spreading disease between people being evaluated
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean and disinfect
- Measures temperature and displays a reading rapidly
- Provides the ability to retake a temperature quickly
Limitations of NCITs
How and where the NCIT is used may affect the measurement.
Proper Use of NCITs
The person using the device should strictly follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions for use for the specific NCIT being used.
The manufacturer’s instructions for use typically include the following information and recommendations for proper use:
Preparing the Environment and NCIT
The use environment may impact the performance of the NCIT. Instructions will typically include recommendations for optimal use, such as the following:
Use in a draft-free space and out of the direct sun or near radiant heat sources.
Determine if conditions are optimal for use. Typically, the environmental temperature should be between 60.8-104 ºF (16-40 ºC) and relative humidity below 85 percent.
Cleaning Between Uses
For cleaning NCITs between uses, follow the instructions in the Cleaning and Disinfecting section of the product instructions.
Preparing the Person being Evaluated
In preparation for taking a temperature measurement with an NCIT, the person using the NCIT should typically ensure that.
The test area of the forehead is clean, dry, and not blocked during measurement.
Using the NCIT
In particular, the following are typical instructions for NCIT usage.
- Hold the NCIT sensing area perpendicular to the forehead and instruct the person to remain stationary during measurement(s).
- The distance between the NCIT and forehead is specific to each NCIT. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for correct measurement distances.
- Do not touch the sensing area of the NCIT and keep the sensor clean and dry.
(FAQs)
What is a non-contact infrared thermometer?
A non-contact infrared thermometer is a device that measures temperature without touching the object or person being measured. It works by detecting the infrared radiation emitted from the object or person and converting it into a temperature reading.
How does a non-contact infrared thermometer work?
A non-contact infrared thermometer uses a lens to focus the infrared radiation emitted by an object onto a detector, which converts the energy into an electrical signal. The thermometer then calculates the temperature based on the amount of infrared radiation detected.
How do I use a non-contact infrared thermometer?
To use a non-contact infrared thermometer, point the device at the object or person you want to measure and press the trigger button. Aim the thermometer at the forehead or the center of the object you want to measure. The temperature reading will appear on the screen within a few seconds.
How far should I hold the non-contact infrared thermometer from the object or person being measured?
The distance at which you should hold a non-contact infrared thermometer from the object or person being measured depends on the model of the thermometer. The instruction manual for the thermometer should specify the optimal distance.
What is the normal temperature range for a non-contact infrared thermometer?
The normal temperature range for a non-contact infrared thermometer is between 90°F and 109°F (32°C and 42.9°C), but this may vary depending on the model and manufacturer of the thermometer.
Can a non-contact infrared thermometer measure body temperature accurately?
Yes, a non-contact infrared thermometer can measure body temperature accurately if used correctly. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.
Are non-contact infrared thermometers safe to use?
Yes, non-contact infrared thermometers are safe to use. They do not emit radiation or heat and do not cause any harm to the person being measured.
Conclusion
Using a non-contact infrared thermometer is a simple and effective way to measure temperature without physical contact. To use it, you should first ensure that the thermometer is calibrated, and that the device and the object being measured are at a similar temperature. Then, simply point the thermometer at the object, keeping it at a distance of 1-6 inches, and press the trigger to take a reading. The temperature will be displayed on the screen.
Non-contact infrared thermometers are particularly useful for measuring the temperature of people, food, and objects that are difficult to access or are sensitive to physical contact. They are commonly used in medical settings, food service, and industrial applications. With proper use and care, a non-contact infrared thermometer can provide accurate and reliable temperature readings.
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