About
FLIR Systems was founded in 1978. Initially, the company manufactured solely IR systems for airborne use. Today, this focus on infrared technology has earned the company a place at the forefront of current IR innovation. FLIR was purchased by Extech in 2007. This acquisition has allowed FLIR to expand its test instrument line while Extech now sells various FLIR thermal cameras. FLIR currently boasts a massive range of thermal cameras and sensors for a wide variety of applications. The company has broken this large range of IR products into six categories.
Surveillance
The surveillance segment includes thermal cameras which are intended for use in military, law enforcement, and public safety applications. FLIR manufactures many thermal cameras specifically for use in the military. These include mainly vehicle-mounted EO/IR solutions for airborne and maritime use. FLIR has even worked with the US military to install its thermal cameras in most military helicopters.
Instruments
The instruments segment includes mainly handheld test instruments, many of which are manufactured by Extech. These include multimeters, clamp meters, IR thermometers, IR testers, video borescopes, and non-contact voltage testers.
OEM/Emerging Markets
This segment includes thermal camera parts and other components which are purchased mainly by third party manufacturers. These third parties use FLIR components as part of their own products. BMW is a major consumer of FLIR components as many of its new vehicles incorporate thermal cameras. This segment also includes hand-held and weapon-mounted thermal imaging systems for use by consumers and law enforcement.
Maritime
FLIR marine thermal imaging products include both handheld and vehicle mounted units which are water resistant. Vehicle mounted units are useful for identifying obstacles in the dark, avoiding other vessels, and performing search and rescue. Handheld marine units are also available for search and rescue. FLIR also offers vehicle mounted units specifically for fishing which allow to "see" what's under the water. FLIR distributes some of these products under the Raymarine name.
Security
FLIR security products include cameras and video recording systems for use in commercial, critical infrastructure, and home security applications. These include thermal security cameras, analog & IP visible-light CCTV cameras, recorders, and handheld thermal security cameras.
Detection
FLIR detection products are intended for threat detection. These products are primarily for law enforcement and government use. They include explosives detectors, radiation detectors, biological aerosol monitors, and analysis products.
Current Statistics:
- Revenue: $1.5 billion (2013)
- Net Income: $177 million (2013)
- Employees: 2,800 approx.