Thermoelectric coolers keep imaging sensors cool for outdoor security
The HiTemp ETX series of thermoelectric coolers from Laird Thermal Systems, keep imaging sensors cool in high temperature environments. Sensitive camera components require active cooling to keep operating temperatures below the maximum limit, ensuring high-quality image resolution. Solar radiation and increased heat flux density from surrounding electronics, can mean that outdoor security cameras can reach temperatures up to 90 degrees C. This may cause performance degradation, loss of image resolution or even system failure. The HiTemp ETX series can survive in temperatures up to 150 degrees C, making them suitable for spot cooling in outdoor security camera applications.
In addition to harsh environments and system temperature fluctuations, designers of outdoor security cameras need to meet the challenge of integrating a growing number of features into smaller form factors. This also results in higher internal heat loads in the camera. A lack of airflow due to completely sealed compartments makes it even more difficult to dissipate heat away from temperature sensitive electronics such as imaging sensors, continues Laird.
Thermoelectric coolers are solid-state devices that use the Peltier effect to actively pump heat away from electronic devices requiring cooling. Standard thermoelectric coolers were not designed for high temperature environments, so Laird Thermal Systems developed a new generation of coolers to improve reliability and cooling performance. The HiTemp ETX series has a robust construction and is assembled with advanced thermoelectric materials that boost cooling capacity by up to 10 per cent. It also features a higher insulating barrier compared to standard thermoelectric coolers, achieving a temperature differential of up to 83 degrees C.
There are over 50 models in the HiTemp ETX series to cover the wide range of emerging applications and footprint requirements, cooling capacity needs, voltage inputs and finishing options, says Laird Thermal Imaging Systems.
Laird Thermal Systems develops thermal management solutions for demanding applications across global medical, industrial, transportation and telecommunications markets. It manufactures a diverse product portfolio ranging from active thermoelectric coolers and assemblies to temperature controllers and liquid cooling systems. Its engineers use advanced thermal modelling and management techniques to solve complex heat and temperature control problems. The company also offers a range of design, prototyping and in-house testing capabilities.
