Uptime Magazine - October/November 2008 - (Page 36)

to have the program for your specific brand of camera. Some camera manufacturers incorporate the cost of the software into the price of the camera, whereas other companies price the software as a separate component. When comparing camera package prices, find out if the software is included. Without the software, you are extremely limited as to what you can do with the information you gather. Be cautioned that some companies also create “viewing software” which only allows the user to view the images on a computer, but does not allow manipulation of images for analysis, nor report creation. If you need to create reports, insure that you have the reporting software. Basic reporting software should have the following functions: It should allow you to control the location of your saved images; it should have report templates, but also allow you to create a custom report; it should have numerous measurement tools, tables and graphs; and it should allow you to import IR and full-color digital images into the report. Make sure that you see a demonstration of the software, and then be given at least an hour to experiment with the software. Many companies have trial downloads of their software, so take advantage of this. Most software is intuitive and looks and functions similarly to Microsoft Windows programs. Other programs are more complex. Think about who will be using the reporting software, the level of computer skill and ability that person possesses. Is s/he a motivated learner and able to self-teach? If it is more likely that people with limited computer skills will be using this program, then you may consider purchasing a camera with simpler software. If you use several different technologies within a maintenance program, you may already have integration software that combines various technologies. If so, find out which camera manufacturer produces software that is compatible with your integration program. buying your camera, take the following steps: • Organize your list in order of priority— or divide the list into “must have” and “preferred” lists. • Determine your budget. • Ask for camera demonstrations, and make sure the salesperson goes through each function. • Make sure all your questions are clearly answered. Take notes! • Review the camera and software manuals—are they easy to use? • MOST IMPORTANT—Try the camera and software before you buy. Don’t BE SOLD—instead, buy the camera that is right for the user and your company’s needs! Paula Bowie is the Director of Education at The Academy of Infrared Training (AIRT), and continues to train thermographers in the field. Currently, she is in Asia conducting onsite thermography courses. For questions, course schedules, or to schedule AIRT on-site training, please contact us at 1-888-673-4743 or airt@infraredtraining.net Conclusion Now that we have gone through infrared camera features, specifications and explained some potential pitfalls, you should have, or be able to compile, a list of specifications/options that you require for your particular application. Before making the big commitment to POWER 2 One powerful solution for all of your lubrication management needs. Trico and Predict – joining forces to offer you the most complete range of services and products you need to keep your equipment and your people running productively. Call today. One resource. Lots more power. 800-558-7008 www.tricocorp.com 36 800-543-8786 www.predictinc.com october/november 2008 http://www.tricocorp.com http://www.predictinc.com http://www.tricocorp.com http://www.predictinc.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Uptime Magazine - October/November 2008

Uptime Magazine - October/November 2008 Contents Upfront Upclose: An Asset Management Oasis in the Desert Information Technology: Streamlining Through Simplicity Lubrication: Phases for Framing a Solid Foundation Infrared: Do Your Homework Before You Buy Maintenance Management: Get It Together by Getting Together Motor Testing: Key Elements in Motor Decision Making Precision Maintenance: Shedding Some Light on Tolerances Reliability: RCM & the Mortgage Meltdown Ultrasound: A Multidimensional Tool Vibration: The Whirling Pump Mystery, Solved with ODS Upgrade: Are You Looking in the Right Place for Your Wear Debris?

Uptime Magazine - October/November 2008

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