FLIR Introduces A8481 Compact HD MWIR Science Camera
New thermal imaging camera delivers 1280 × 1024 HD resolution in the compact A-Series platform, providing a straightforward upgrade path for existing research and test environments.
www.flir.com
Teledyne FLIR today announced the launch of the A8481, a new compact HD MWIR science camera designed for researchers and engineers who need significantly more thermal detail without changing the workflows, optics, software, and infrastructure they already use. Built around a 1280 × 1024 HOT MWIR SLS detector, the A8481 delivers four times the pixels of VGA A-Series cameras while maintaining the compact form factor of the A67xx platform.
For many research programs, moving from VGA thermal imaging to HD has traditionally required adopting a larger camera platform, resulting in new mounting systems, optics considerations, integration work, and validation efforts. The A8481 addresses this challenge by bringing HD MWIR imaging into the same compact A-Series body already deployed throughout laboratories, test facilities, and research environments worldwide.
“The A8481 removes one of the biggest barriers to adopting HD thermal imaging,” said Matthew Hasty, Director of Product Management for Automation and Science at FLIR. “Researchers have long wanted more thermal detail without introducing the complexity of a larger camera platform. With the A8481, customers can move to 1280 × 1024 HD thermal imaging while continuing to use the same compact A-Series workflow, optics ecosystem, software environment, and integration infrastructure they already trust.”
The camera combines a 1280 × 1024, 8 µm HOT MWIR SLS focal plane with thermal sensitivity below 30 mK to deliver detailed radiometric thermal data across a wide range of scientific and industrial applications. Researchers can collect measurement-grade thermal imagery while using the same FLIR Precision Optics ecosystem, mounting interfaces, connectivity, and FLIR Research Studio workflow already established in their facilities.
The A8481 supports GigE Vision, GenICam, and CoaXPress connectivity while providing precision trigger and synchronization functionality for deterministic data capture. Its integrated motorized three-position filter wheel supports expanded temperature measurement ranges, while compatibility with motorized, manual-focus, microscope, and macro optics enables users to maximize measurement pixels on target.
The camera is designed for a broad range of research, testing, and measurement applications, including electronics analysis, battery research, combustion studies, propulsion testing, non-destructive testing, materials characterization, and academic research. The combination of HD spatial resolution, radiometric recording, and microscope optics allows users to measure thermal behavior from full assemblies down to individual components and microscopic features.
"The real advantage of the A8481 is that customers can increase the amount of thermal information they capture without disrupting established test procedures," said Jerry Beeney, Sales Manager, R&D Science, Teledyne FLIR. "Whether they're upgrading from an existing A-Series camera or building a new measurement system, the A8481 provides HD detail, measurement-grade data, and compatibility with the software, optics, and workflows they've already invested in. It delivers more insight while keeping implementation simple."
In addition to HD imagery, the A8481 supports fully radiometric .ATS recording within FLIR Research Studio Professional for acquisition, analysis, collaboration, and reporting. Windowed imaging modes can achieve frame rates up to 13,733 Hz, enabling users to capture rapid thermal events while maintaining the measurement capabilities required for scientific and engineering investigations.
The A8481 joins Flir's science camera portfolio as the compact HD MWIR upgrade path for existing A-Series users, providing enhanced thermal detail and measurement capability without requiring researchers to redesign their workflows or test environments.
The Flir A8481 will be available beginning October 2026 through Flir's global network of sales representatives and channel partners. A8481 demonstrations and application consultations are available for organizations evaluating HD MWIR thermal imaging for research and testing applications.
To learn more about the A8481, please visit: https://www.flir.com/browse/research--science/research--science-cameras/high-performance-a-series-cameras/open-base-camera-stand-series/
