Pixel Pitch
Pixel Pitch Overview: Why It Matters in Thermal Imaging
Pixel pitch refers to the distance between the centers of two adjacent pixels on a thermal sensor, also known as a microbolometer. Measured in microns (µm), pixel pitch directly impacts the level of detail and clarity in thermal images: the smaller the pixel pitch, the more detail a thermal device can capture.
Pixel pitch is crucial because it affects both the image quality and detection range. Smaller pixel pitches mean more pixels within a given sensor size, resulting in a denser image with finer details. Additionally, pixel pitch affects the fill factor—the proportion of the detector’s surface that actively captures thermal radiation. A higher fill factor improves image quality, as more of the sensor surface collects thermal data instead of empty spaces that need interpolation.
In simple terms, a smaller pixel pitch paired with a larger thermal sensor resolution (such as 640x512) yields a sharper, clearer image, which is especially useful in identifying distant or smaller targets.
Common Pixel Pitches: 17µm vs. 12µm
- 17µm Pixel Pitch:
- Overview: 17µm is one of the standard pixel pitches in many thermal imaging devices. It offers a good balance between image detail and production cost, making it a popular choice in mid-range thermal units.
- Performance: Devices with a 17µm pixel pitch provide clear thermal imaging suitable for moderate to long-range applications. However, they may lack the level of detail seen in units with a smaller pixel pitch.
- Best For: General hunting, observation, and applications where standard image clarity is sufficient without the need for extreme detail.
- 12µm Pixel Pitch:
- Overview: A smaller 12µm pixel pitch represents the latest advancement in thermal sensor technology, allowing for higher image resolution and detail within the same sensor size.
- Performance: With a 12µm pitch, users benefit from a denser pixel arrangement, translating to improved image quality, especially at longer distances. The smaller pixel size enhances both target recognition and clarity, making it ideal for demanding applications.
- Best For: Professional hunting, long-range surveillance, and situations requiring precision and enhanced detail, especially in adverse weather or low-contrast conditions.
In Practice: For example, a thermal device with a 640x512 resolution paired with a 12µm pixel pitch will produce a more detailed image than the same resolution with a 17µm pixel pitch. This technology is seen in high-end devices like the HIKMICRO Habrok HX60L, which offers an advanced 1280x1080 sensor with a 12µm pixel pitch, currently one of the highest clarity setups on the market.
This understanding of pixel pitch can help users choose a device that aligns with their clarity and range requirements, enhancing their overall experience with thermal imaging technology.