The PMTV is a hand-held, battery-operated thermal video viewer, complete with display and eyepiece, which weighs less than 0.5 pound and fits comfortably in the palm of a user's hand.
Using Irvine Sensors' proprietary Cam-Noir(R) infrared uncooled camera technology, the PMTV is designed to provide soldiers with the ability to see in total darkness or in adverse battlefield conditions.
Because of its small size and weight, it can be stowed easily in a shirt or pants pocket when not in use. Initial versions of the PMTV have been delivered under a prior contract and have received favorable field test reviews from end-users.
Less integrated thermal camera products developed and built by Irvine Sensors using the Cam-Noir technology are already in limited use in the global war on terrorism.
Irvine Sensors believes that the PMTV offers a combination of size, power consumption and performance that is unmatched by any other integrated thermal viewing device presently on the market.
Key goals of the new contract are to increase resolution of the PMTV to 640 x 480 quality, further reduce its size, weight and power requirements and expand its field operating temperature range.
Although it was developed for potential military applications, Irvine Sensors has previously announced that the PMTV is also available for commercial applications, including law enforcement, fire fighting and security.
However, it is important to note that the PMTV will be subject to Department of State and Department of Commerce export controls, and appropriate licenses will need to be obtained prior to export.