Zeiss has introduced four thermal imaging cameras designed for day and night observations. The company promises that the cameras will provide “a new way of birdwatching . ”
The Zeiss DTI 1, DTI 3 Gen 2, DTI 4 and DTI 6 promise thermal imaging capabilities with different focal lengths and image quality. All four models feature “intuitive ergonomics for ease of use, superior viewing optics with the ability to reliably recognize even the smallest details, and smart power management.”
The DTI 1 is the entry level model in the Zeiss line of thermal imagers. Lightweight and compact, the camera offers many features such as Transition Zoom, which provides a continuous zoom effect and eight color modes. One of these new modes, Detection Mode, makes it easier to locate heat sources.
Zeiss DTI 1 is available with two different focal lengths. The DTI 1/19 has a field of view of 24 meters at 100 meters and a range of up to 1000 meters. The DTI 1/25 has a field of view of 18 meters at 100 meters and a range of 1320 meters.
Zeiss DTI 3 Gen 2 is positioned as a “universal solution for any situation” . The first version of DTI 3 was released last year and the new version offers significantly upgraded hardware and software features. The new image processor and upgraded AMOLED display promise better picture quality.
“DTI 3 Gen 2 is an extremely versatile thermal camera option. The benefits of the four additional viewing modes are especially evident when observing birds at close range in natural or tropical forests, ” says Stefan Gerner, Product Manager for Nature Observation at Zeiss Consumer Products and an experienced and avid bird watcher himself.
The DTI 3 Gen 2 comes with two focal lengths. The DTI 3/25 has a range of 930m and a field of view of 26m at 100m, while the DTI 3/35 version has a range of 1300m.
Zeiss DTI 4 received a higher resolution image sensor – 640 x 512 pixels. “This provides better quality at all magnification levels and increased detection range,” says Gerner.
The DTI 4 is available in 4/35 and 4/50 focal lengths, with the latter providing an impressive range of 2500 meters.
For even more detail, Zeiss’ top-of-the-line thermal imaging camera DTI 6 is the best of them all.
Zeiss DTI6
“Using the innovative Zeiss Smart Image Processing Pro (ZSIP Pro) technology, combined with a 640×480 sensor and a 1024×768 AMOLED display, the Zeiss DTI 6 thermal imaging camera delivers stunningly clear and detailed images,” explains Zeiss .
“The use of thermal imaging cameras for nature and bird watching is becoming more and more popular, ” says Gerner. “ Devices such as the new DTI thermal imaging cameras allow users to find, identify and observe a variety of animals, including those that are nocturnal. It also makes it easier to find animals with good natural camouflage, like snipe or bittern.”
“…A thermal imaging camera is an essential piece of equipment for many bird watchers and opens up a new way to observe nature and birds day and night,” Gerner adds.
These cameras can also come in handy for wildlife photographers as they allow you to find potential subjects especially in low light conditions. Often a nature photographer is out before dawn, and a thermal imaging camera is of obvious use in such cases.
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What about the prices?
It is difficult to expect affordable prices for such devices, especially those made by Carl Zeiss: DTI 1, DTI 3 Gen 2, DTI 4 and DTI 6 cameras sell for about $1900, and DTI 6/40 for almost $5400.
