The new flagship device from Cat phones, the Cat S61, is an upgrade to the Cat S60 with enhanced FLIR thermal imaging capability, built-in laser assisted distance measuring, and an indoor air quality sensor.
The Cat S61 boasts an integrated FLIR thermal imaging camera with enhanced software for greater image contrast, expanded temperature range to 400 degrees Celsius, and an upgrade from VGA to high-definition detail from the visible camera providing image optimisation using FLIR’s MSX technology.
These new features and enhancements enable vehicle diagnostics, asphalt monitoring, and higher temperature equipment monitoring, in addition to detecting heat loss around windows and doors, spotting moisture and missing insulation, identifying over-heating electrical appliances and overloaded circuitry, and seeing in complete darkness or through obscurants such as light fog or smoke.
The MyFlir application has also been upgraded on the Cat S61. New features include live streaming of thermal imaging, on-device tips and tricks and a community forum.
The Cat S61 also includes an indoor air quality sensor from Sensirion to alert users to high levels of indoor air pollutants (volatile organic compounds) in their working environment. Common sources of VOC’s include paints, solvents, carpets, furniture and cleaning products, all common in the environments typical to Cat phone users. The Cat S61 informs users when an unhealthy environment is detected, allowing them to make timely decisions such as opening a window to improve ventilation or taking a break. The sensor can also provide humidity and current temperature readings.
The Cat S61 also comes with laser assisted distance measurement which can measure point-to-point distances up to 10m, then calculate area, and switch between metric and imperial measurement. All data is saved within the image so alternative measurement estimates can be taken or adjustments made without returning to the site.
This combination of features is highly valued by Cat phones customers. Electricians, for example, can use thermal imaging to analyse a fuse box or wiring system, and the laser assisted distance measurement to estimate how much cable is required for the job. They can also live stream results back to base should they need further advice from a colleague.
The Cat S61 has a large 5.2” FHD screen, protected by Gorilla Glass 5 and optimised for outdoor use. It also boasts leading rugged credentials. It is IP68 dustproof and waterproof up to 3m for 1 hour. It conforms to MIL Spec 810G, and it is built to survive repeated drop-tests onto concrete from 1.8m. All these features are important to Cat phone customers who often use their phones to read and format plans and invoices while out on the job.
Peter Stephens, CEO Bullitt Group, global mobile device licensee for Caterpillar, said: “We know that 60% of Cat S60 customers use the integrated thermal camera at least once per week and the temperature and resolution improvements found in the new Cat S61 will open up thermal imaging to many more users and use cases.”
