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Produced from 2006 to 2019 and many still in use with the original purchaser so only recently appearing in numbers on eBay etc. for private resale. While relatively stable in overall design over 13 years, the sensor used has changed a number of times although always a A-Si bolometer from ULIS. The use of a detector and building a camera from detector up allowed greater freedom in product design compared to the relatively large 'cores' available in 2006. The detector being French also had the benefit of simplified export control. Even though the US fully adopted the Wassenaar Arrangement rules, their license conditions often include re-export controls.
The later model Argus4, mainly P7150, were also sold as Avon Protection products following the sale of the e2v Thermal Camera Business sale to Avon Rubber in 2015.

   



   

Data Table for Argus4
   
Sensing Method Bolometer using A-Si materials. The pixel resistance changes with temperature as it is heated or colled by the scene focussed upon it.
Sensor Type / Size ULIS 160x120 35µm pitch (P7030), controlled sensor temperature using Peltier.
ULIS 320x240 25µm pitch (P7130 and derivatives such as P7225), controlled sensor temperature using Peltier.
ULIS 320x240 25µm pitch (P7150) sensor temperature control not required
ULIS 160x120 25µm pitch (P7050) sensor temperature control not required
Lens Parameters Various f/1 lenses giving 50° field of view (except P7225). Fixed focus by setting lens at build.
P7225 type: f/1.3 25° FoV.
Dynamic Range / Control 150°C in 'ambient scene' settings. Up to 1100°C in lowest gain mode. No iris, dynamic range controlled by sensor electronic settings.
Display 3.5" colour LCD, driven direct
Sensitivity (MDTD) Between 40mK and 90mK in 'ambient scene' depending on sensor and variant.
P7250 & P7130 gave the best MDTD
Power Source 6 x NiMH 1800mAh as standard but an accessory pack to take 'AA' cells was also available, mainly sold to Japan & S Korea.
Power System Battery voltage used internally, camera ~4W depending on Peltier loading.
Video Output Network video (RTSP) available via accessory battery pack as well as supporting a number of other digital video accessories for recording or transmission
Analogue video output available via the battery connector for use with accessory battery pack. Video present on most models, at 60Hz / 525 line NTSC only.
Image Processing Bolometer sensors require calibration and also 'on the fly' blank field correction using a periodic shutter. Various algorithms to present the huge dynamic ranges of a fire scene with false colour choices. 160x120 pixel sensors scale up 2x.
Manufacturer Status New build ceased 2019, although promotion ended earlier in favour of MiTIC series. Spares and repairs are no longer supported by Avon.
Number and Years Built High 1000's from 2006 - 2019
Export Status Dual use controlled under Wassenaar Arrangement unless a 9Hz limited type.
Publicity Argus 4 datasheet
Argus 4 user manual

Derivatives

As well as the main model variants that appeared alongside sensor evolution, each generally had a 9Hz version that was not subject to export controls. In addition the premium P7130 type with the best sensor also came in black security / police versions (P7225, P7250), a market area not addressed by e2v since P4440 days.

Accessories

Several options of video transmitters or wired output devices were produced, these connecting into battery packs on the 10 way hot shoe. There were both analogue-fed digital (COFDM) and wi-fi digital streaming transmitters.
Truck mount to charge batteries via contacts on the top of the battery, or simply to hold the camera ready for use.

Software

Each camera was supplied with user software on CD to allow image download and the setup of camera features, time etc.
Software screen
The Argus4 support web pages from e2v and Avon has been deleted, the most recently available customer software are provided on the support page.
Argus4 Support page

Hobby user information

Care is needed in distinguishing the exact models appearing for resale to distinguish lower specification models such as P7030. The serial and type number should be in the recess under the battery.

See Argus4 Support page for detailed information on software, batteries and common repairs.

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Heritage TICs e2v Argus4 page 2 January 2025  All tradename © respective owners