With the CYCLOPS-D series, thermal imaging specialist ThermTec has already proven that the Chinese company can build thermal imaging devices that combine two different focal lengths in one device (dual FOV). You can find out more about ThermTec here in our company portrait on all4hunters.com. With the new ThermTec Wild-D series, the thermal imaging device manufacturer is now presenting two models that combine this dual FOV technology in a thermal imager with a NETD value of less than 18 mK. The so-called NETD value (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference) provides information about the thermal sensitivity of the sensor and reflects how fine the temperature differences are that can be detected by the thermal imaging detector. The smaller this value is, the clearer and more detailed the image that can be reproduced by a thermal camera. The Wild 350D and the Wild 650D differ essentially only in the size of the thermal sensor. Of course, the resolution of the sensor also plays an important role in image quality. This is where the two new ThermTec Wild-D models differ: the sensor of the Wild 350D has a resolution of 384x288 px and the Wild 650D has a resolution of 640x512 px, each with a pitch of 12 µm and a frame rate of 50 Hz.
The new devices in the Wild-D series are claimed to boot up within 3 seconds of being switched on and can operate for up to an hour without recalibration – without any loss of image quality. According to ThermTec, this is made possible by the use of modern AI in combination with advanced algorithms. This enables the monoculars to continuously record environmental data in a self-learning manner and provide consistent and dynamic images on this basis.
With the ThermTec Wild-D models the hunter can switch between two differently sized fields of view
The D in the model designation stands for Dual Field of View (FOV) and means that these thermal imagers have a dual lens system that can be switched between a 25-mm and a 50-mm objective lens. This allows the field of view to be optimally adapted to the respective terrain situation, depending on whether the hunter wants to use the device in an open field or in a densely overgrown forest. With the smaller lens, the field of view increases at the expense of the detection range while with the larger lens, detection range increases and field of view decreases.
ThermTec combines the dual FOV technology for both lens sizes with an extremely small and therefore very bright aperture of F0.9. The Wild 350 D has a 2.4x to 4.8x optical magnification and the Wild 650 D has a 1.4x to 2.8x optical magnification, which are supplemented by a 1x to 4x digital zoom on both devices. This means that the Wild 350D can achieve a magnification of up to 19.2x. The Wild imagers are operated with one hand using just one control button, a scroll wheel for focussing and a joystick for menu control. The sensitivity of the joystick can be adjusted according to the user's individual preferences. Another major advantage becomes clear when looking at the operating time. The Wild models are each powered by a replaceable 18650 battery, two of which are included in the scope of delivery. A maximum operating time of 10 hours is possible per battery for the Wild 350D and up to 8 hours for the Wild 650D.
Like the already familiar devices in the Wild series, the new D variants also have an ergonomically designed and weight-saving magnesium housing, which is encased in non-slip rubber armoring. A hinged cover made of robust plastic sits on the front of the lens to protect the sensitive lens. This is hinged to a 360° freely rotatable ring on the lens and can be closed silently.
Availability and prices of the new ThermTec Wild 350D and Wild 650D thermal imaging devices
The new handheld monocular thermal imaging devices with dual field of view ThermTec Wild 350D and Wild 650D are already being delivered. For information about availability in your own country please contact your local specialized retailers.
++++ The ThermTec Wild 350D comes with a non-binding recommended retail price of €2,500 and the Wild 650D with an RRP of €2,990. ++++
Further information on ThermTec thermal imaging monoculars can also be found on the manufacturer's website.
