Product Overview

This industrial thermal camera module USB solution delivers professional-grade LWIR 8–14 µm imaging in a compact 21×21 mm, ~18 g package. Featuring a USB-C interface and plug-and-play UVC Y16 stream, it integrates seamlessly into UAV thermal payload USB systems, AMR robots, and energy inspection cabinets.

Unlike simple infrared webcams, this module provides radiometric USB thermal module options that capture accurate per-pixel temperature data. Engineers can access full functions through the provided USB thermal SDK Python and C/C++ APIs, enabling easy integration with Windows, Linux, Jetson, and Raspberry Pi environments.

Lightweight Thermal Vision: 21x21mm Mini USB Thermal Imaging Camera Module (infrared usb camera for Drone FPV UAV )
Unlock hidden insights with our incredibly compact (21x21mm) and ultra-light (22g) mini thermal camera module, offering seamless USB2.0 or USB-C connectivity for diverse commercial and industrial applications.

 

The Power of Portable Thermal Imaging
Discreet Thermal Sensing, Powerful Performance
• Key Benefits (Bullet Points/Icons):
o Ultra-Compact (21x21mm): Fits into the tightest spaces for embedded thermal solutions.
o Featherlight (22g): Minimal impact on drone payload, handheld devices, or robotic systems.
o Flexible USB Connectivity: Choose USB 2.0 or USB-C for broad compatibility and easy integration.
o Non-Contact Temperature Measurement: Detect hot spots, energy leaks, and thermal anomalies safely.
o Reliable Thermal Sensor: Provide clear radiometric or non-radiometric thermal data.
o Fast Integration: Plug-and-play functionality for rapid prototyping and deployment.
o Durable Design: Engineered for continuous use in commercial and industrial settings.

 

Function of USB Thermal Camera Module

A USB thermal camera module is a device that captures and converts infrared radiation (heat) into an electronic signal that can be processed and displayed as an image. The main function of a USB thermal camera module is to provide a means of capturing thermal images and transferring that data to a computer or other device for analysis and interpretation.

The thermal camera module typically includes a thermal sensor, called a microbolometer array, that is sensitive to infrared radiation. When the camera is powered on, the sensor detects the infrared radiation emitted by objects in its field of view and converts it into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed by the camera's onboard electronics to create a thermal image.

The USB interface on the camera module is then used to transfer the thermal image data to a computer or other device where it can be analyzed, processed and displayed. Some thermal camera modules also have built-in software that allows users to adjust camera settings, analyze data, and export images to other software or devices.

 

Key advantages at a Glance

Feature	Key Benefit & Value Proposition
21×21mm Size	Compact module fits into small devices and embedded systems
384×288 IR Resolution	High thermal clarity for precise diagnostics and analysis
USB-C Plug & Play	Instant connection to Android, Windows, Linux (no drivers)
Real-Time Thermal Video	Live IR visualization ideal for inspections & mobile apps
Lightweight (18.6g)	Drone & wearable-ready design reduces system burden
OEM Integration-Ready	Supports SDKs, app development, and custom module design
Low Power Consumption	Efficient for portable, mobile, or long-duration operations

Product Application Examples

Industrial Predictive       maintenance, electrical inspections, equipment health

Smart Devices               Smartphone thermal attachments, USB-C thermal imaging gadgets

Robotics & Drones       Obstacle detection, search & rescue, night surveillance

Public Safety                Firefighting, law enforcement, surveillance

Healthcare                  Fever detection, diagnostic heat mapping, veterinary tools

Energy Sector            Solar panel monitoring, power station inspection

 

what difficulty or troubling problems it can solve in industrial application?  

This thermal camera module is a powerful diagnostic and monitoring tool in industrial settings, primarily focusing on predictive maintenance, safety, and process optimization.

Problems Solved:

1. Predictive Maintenance and Equipment Failure Prevention:
   • Problem: Identifying overheating electrical components (e.g., circuit breakers, busbars, motor bearings, transformers), mechanical friction, or fluid leaks before they lead to catastrophic failure, downtime, or safety hazards. This is invisible to the naked eye.
   • Solution: Provides non-contact, real-time thermal images, allowing technicians to quickly pinpoint abnormal temperature signatures, enabling proactive repairs and preventing costly production stoppages or fires. The module can be integrated into inspection robots or handheld tools.
   •  
2. Process Monitoring & Quality Control (Temperature-Dependent Processes):
   • Problem: Ensuring uniform temperature distribution in heating/cooling processes (e.g., ovens, furnaces, chillers, extrusion lines) or detecting inconsistencies in material properties that manifest as temperature variations.
   • Solution: Continuously monitors temperature profiles across surfaces or within processes, highlighting deviations that indicate quality issues or inefficiencies. The small size allows embedding directly into production lines.
   •  
3. Leak Detection in Pipes & Tanks (Fluids & Gases):
   • Problem: Detecting subtle temperature changes caused by leaks in pipelines, tanks, or insulation, which might not be visible or detectable by other means.
   • Solution: Thermal imaging quickly identifies cold spots (gas leaks/evaporation) or hot spots (fluid leaks/insulation breakdown), even through some non-transparent materials, facilitating early repair and preventing environmental hazards or energy loss.
   •  
4. Fire Prevention & Early Detection:
   • Problem: Identifying incipient fires or hot spots in waste piles, storage facilities, server rooms, or electrical cabinets before flames are visible, especially in dark or smoky environments.
   • Solution: Provides critical early warning by detecting abnormal heat signatures, allowing for immediate intervention and preventing major conflagrations. Its small size allows discreet placement in high-risk zones.
   •  
5. Optimizing Energy Efficiency:
   • Problem: Identifying areas of poor insulation, heat loss (e.g., around windows, doors, pipes, or within building envelopes), or energy inefficiencies in industrial facilities.
   • Solution: Clearly visualizes thermal bridges and insulation gaps, allowing for targeted improvements that lead to significant energy savings.

 

Special Demands Met:

• Non-Contact & Non-Destructive Inspection: Safe for inspecting live electrical equipment or sensitive machinery.
• 24/7 Operation in Any Light: Provides visibility even in absolute darkness, smoke, or adverse weather.
• Predictive Capabilities: Shifts maintenance from reactive to proactive, saving time and money.
• Integration into Specialized Tools: The miniature size is perfect for custom inspection tools, robotic platforms, or drones used for industrial asset management.
• Safety Enhancement: Helps prevent accidents, fires, and equipment failures by providing critical thermal insights.

 

Keying parameter

• Spectral Band: LWIR USB camera module 8–14 µm for true long-wave infrared
• Resolution Options: 256×192 / 384×288 / 640×512
• Frame Rate: 9 Hz export friendly thermal camera (global shipping compliant) or 25 Hz industrial models
• NETD: ≤50 mK (typ.), ≤40 mK option
• Radiometric Function: temperature measurement with emissivity settings, thermal alarms, and CSV export
• Mechanical: 21×21 mm PCB, M12/S-mount lens base, 18g weight
• Power: 5V via USB, low power for drones and embedded use
• SDK: Complete APIs in C/C++ and USB thermal SDK Python

 

21×21mm infrared camera module OEM

1. Smartphone / Tablet Thermal Vision Attachments

Scenario:

Plug-and-play thermal camera that connects to Android smartphones or tablets via USB-C for personal or professional use.

Use Cases:

Home insulation detection

HVAC troubleshooting

Electrical hotspot detection

Outdoor exploration or night wildlife viewing

 

2. Industrial Predictive Maintenance & Safety Monitoring

Scenario:

Mounted to handheld devices or embedded into equipment for real-time thermal video monitoring of machinery.

Use Cases:

Detecting motor overheating

Monitoring transformers, bearings, or power lines

Thermal condition monitoring of production lines

 

3. Embedded Thermal Vision in AMR & Robots

Scenario:

Installed in compact AI device, AGVs, or mobile robots for navigation, obstacle detection, and search & rescue.

Use Cases:

UAV search & rescue operations

Automated thermal inspection of rooftops or solar panels

Robot navigation in dark/hazardous zones

 

4. Firefighting & Emergency Equipment

Scenario:

Integrated into helmets, goggles, or handheld tools to allow visibility through smoke or darkness.

Use Cases:

Person detection in low visibility

Heat source localization in structural fires

Thermal mapping during search missions

 

5. Security & Surveillance Systems

Scenario:

Used as part of 24/7 security solutions to detect human presence, intrusion, or fire risk — even in total darkness.

Use Cases:

Perimeter defense for factories or borders

Night vision surveillance in remote areas

Hidden presence detection in low-light conditions

 

6. Healthcare and Body Temperature Monitoring

Scenario:

Mounted in kiosks or portable medical stations for non-contact temperature screening or diagnostic imaging.

Use Cases:

Fever screening at building entrances

Skin temperature mapping

Veterinary body heat detection

 

Ideal For:

Smartphone & tablet accessories (thermal add-ons)

UAVs & industrial drones for thermal inspection

Smart helmets, goggles & wearable safety gear

Field diagnostic tools for electricians, HVAC, mechanics

Scientific & university research on infrared vision

Security, fire detection & human presence monitoring

 

Opening New Avenues for Thermal Applications
Versatility Across Commercial & Industrial Landscapes
• Visuals: Icons or application-specific images.
• Drone & UAV Inspection: Thermal surveys for roofs, solar panels, power lines, agriculture, and search & rescue.
• Predictive Maintenance: Identifying overheating components in machinery, electrical panels, and HVAC systems.
• Building Diagnostics: Detecting insulation gaps, moisture, and energy inefficiencies.
• Medical Device Integration: Non-contact temperature screening, thermal monitoring in medical equipment.
• Smart Home/IoT Devices: Presence detection, environmental monitoring, smart appliance integration.
• Security & Surveillance: Detecting intruders in low visibility conditions.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for thermal imaging USB-C for Android

Q1: Can this camera connect directly to Android phones & tablet?

A: Yes! It supports USB-C connection and is UVC-compliant, so no app installation is required for basic use.

 

Q2: Is an SDK available for developers?

A: Absolutely. We provide SDK/API and integration guides for OEMs or custom software development.

 

Q3: Can I customize the housing or output format?

A: Yes. We offer optional waterproof casing, lens filters, and integration options based on project specs. specified MOQ required

 

Q4: Is the thermal image real-time?

A: Yes, the module supports real-time thermal video streaming at up to 25 FPS depending on platform.

 

Q5: Can you make USB2.0 and other video resolution?

A: yes USB2.0 available. now 384*288  640*512  256*192 available

 

 

Q6. What is the advantage of a radiometric USB thermal module?
A: Radiometric models measure absolute temperatures for every pixel, useful for inspection, maintenance, and R&D.

 

Q7. Can this thermal module be used in UAV payloads?
A: Yes. Its compact 21×21 mm form factor and lightweight design are optimized for UAV thermal payload USB integrations.

 

Q8. Is it export-friendly?
A: The 9 Hz export friendly thermal camera version is suitable for most markets without additional restrictions.

 

Q9. What SDK support do you provide?
A: A full developer kit including C/C++ libraries and USB thermal SDK Python, compatible with Windows, Linux, Jetson, and Raspberry Pi.

 

Customer Feedback & Testimonials & Good Case Examples

1. Smart Device Accessory Brand – Germany

"We integrated this USB-C thermal module into our Android smartphone accessory line. Its plug-and-play performance and clear 384×288 video helped us launch in under 3 months. Our customers love the responsiveness and clarity."

— Head of Product, ThermalGear GmbH

 

2. Industrial Maintenance Tool OEM – USA

"This thermal camera gave our handheld diagnostic tools a compact, high-resolution thermal option without increasing our hardware footprint. It passed our vibration and field stress tests easily."

— VP of Engineering, Apex Inspection Tools Inc.

 

3. Drone Inspection Platform – Japan

"The module’s small size and low weight (just 22 grams!) make it perfect for our mini UAVs. It streams clean thermal video, helping our clients detect rooftop and solar panel anomalies quickly."

— Lead Systems Engineer, Skydrive Robotics

 

 4. Veterinary Clinic Chain – Italy

"We use this USB-C thermal module with tablets to non-invasively check animal injuries and inflammation. The image quality and speed are excellent for live consultations."

— Clinical Director, VetLive Group

 

Case 1: OEM Integration into Industrial IoT Terminal

Client: US-based industrial automation company

Solution: Embedded the module into their AI-enabled maintenance terminals

Result: Enabled predictive maintenance via thermal trend tracking over Wi-Fi

Value Delivered: Reduced unplanned outages by >60% in factories

 

Case 2: Public Fever Screening Kiosk

Client: Middle East smart city integrator

Solution: Used USB-C thermal modules in tablet-mounted kiosks at building entrances

Result: Deployed 500+ kiosks during COVID-19 for temperature screening

Value Delivered: Quick, contactless entry screening in airports, malls, and government buildings

 

Why Choose Us

• Industrial thermal camera module USB designed for professional inspection
• LWIR USB camera module 8–14 µm spectral response for true thermal imaging
• Radiometric USB thermal module with per-pixel measurement and alarm triggers
• Lightweight 21×21 mm design for drones and robotics
• Full developer support including USB thermal SDK Python

 

Call to Action now for OEM or Customization

Download: [Camera Datasheet PDF]

MOQ: 1 unit for sample, quick demo video & shipment

Email Us: office@okgoobuy.com

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