Page 50
The information contained in this document pertains to a dual use product controlled for export by the Export Administration
Regulations (EAR). Diversion contrary to US law is prohibited. US Department of Commerce authorization is not required prior to
export or transfer to foreign persons or parties unless otherwise prohibited.
8.0
Appendix – Extraordinary Conditions
Disassmbly
Disassembling the camera should not be done without first consulting FLIR Tech Support (SBA-
[email protected]) because it could cause permanent damage and void the warranty. Note that all noise
measurements and figures of merit are changed with a change in physical configuration.
Cleaning the VPA Window
Touching of the VPA window with any object should be avoided at all costs. If the window does become
contaminated, cleaning should be performed in a clean, low dust environment while wearing powder-free,
acetone-impenetrable, ESD safe gloves or finger cots (Nitrile gloves are preferred).
1.
Dusting: Use clean dry compressed air or dry nitrogen (no greater than 20-30 psi) to remove any
loose debris particles from the optic. If no visible stains are present after dusting, discontinue the
procedure and cover the optic so that no further contamination accumulates.
2.
Solvent and lens tissue: Lens tissue should always be used in conjunction with a solvent. FLIR
recommends a solvent mix of 50% acetone (hence the use of acetone-impenetrable gloves) and
50% Isopropyl alcohol. For water-based contaminats (saliva, etc.), Deionized water can be used
as the solvent. Do not use glass cleaning solvent as it will create streaks. Isopropyl alcohol alone
can be used, but its relatively slow evaporation time can leave drying marks on the optic. Lay a
piece of unfolded lens tissue over the optic. Using an eye dropper, drop on some solvent and
slowly drag the wetted tissue across the optic’s surface. Use caution on the amount of sovent
applied…over soaking can be messy, under wetting can streak. The only pressure applied to the
window is the surface adhesion created by the solvent. Do not scrub. Be sure to clean the edges
of the optic prior to attempting the center section. The final clean should be a solvent-saturated
cleanroom wipe dragged across the window, followed quickly (immediately) by a dry nitrogen
blow off. In most cases, a single pass should be sufficient. If necessary, use a new piece of lens
tissue for each additional pass.
3.
Under no circumstances should the window be rubbed with a swab, Q-tip,
dry
lens tissue, or tee
shirt.
4.
For severely contaminated optics, cameras can be returned to the factory for cleaning. Contact
FLIR at
to obtain a Return Material Authorization number.
External Conditions
Operating the camera outside of the input voltage range or operating temperature range specified in the
Tau SWIR Product Specification (102-2009-90) can cause permanent damage and/or degrade the life of
the camera. Avoid exposure to dust and moisture. The camera contains electrostatic-discharge-sensitive
electronics and should be handled appropriately.
