IOThrifty Blog

Field of view (FOV) and spot size are critical for accurate infrared temperature measurement. This guide explains how distance-to-spot (D:S) ratios affect sensor performance and why proper alignment and sizing matter when using IR sensors in industrial, HVAC, and research applications. Learn how to calculate spot size, avoid background interference, and improve temperature accuracy when measuring small or distant targets.

Infrared temperature sensors can struggle with accuracy in environments filled with dust, steam, smoke, or fog. This article explores how environmental interference impacts IR temperature measurements and offers practical tips for overcoming these challenges. Learn how to improve sensor reliability using air purge systems, protective enclosures, fiber optic pyrometers, and strategic placement. Ideal for industrial applications like cement plants, food processing, and metal foundries.

Trying to decide between an infrared temperature sensor and a thermocouple? This guide compares IR sensors and contact thermocouples for industrial, food, HVAC, and manufacturing applications. Learn how each sensor works, their pros and cons, and when to use non-contact infrared temperature measurement versus rugged, embedded thermocouples. Whether you're measuring moving surfaces, extreme heat, or sensitive equipment, this article will help you choose the best temperature sensor for your needs.

Struggling to get accurate temperature readings with infrared sensors on shiny metals or reflective surfaces? This article explains the impact of emissivity on IR temperature measurements and why low-emissivity materials like polished aluminum or stainless steel can be tricky to measure. Learn how emissivity varies by material, surface finish, and wavelength, and discover practical solutions including wavelength selection, emissivity adjustments, and specialized IR sensors for metals.

Measuring temperature with an infrared sensor through a window can be tricky. This article explores how IR transmission, reflection, and absorption impact accuracy, and explains which window materials—like sapphire, quartz, or ZnSe—are best suited for IR temperature readings. Learn how to match your sensor’s spectral range to the right IR window material and discover IOThrifty’s low-wavelength infrared sensors designed for furnace and industrial applications.

Once used for only the most demanding applications, the advancement in technology and decrease in price has made Infrared temperature sensors a commonly used temperature measurement sensor.  This article describes their theory of operation, common applications and the different types of infrared temperature sensors.