Thermometers

These are very useful to have around on an investigation. These devices make use of a directed laser beam to pin point the place to be measured. Once pinpointed, the optics and sensors in the device register the temperature at the target point or at least that's what the makers and the reference books say.

It is however very important to note, that there is a margin of error called the distance to spot ratio, in effect the further the distance the greater the error.

For example, a DTS (Dot to Spot) of 6:1 would mean that 4 feet from the object it would actually be measuring 8 inches around the spot. conversely at 20 feet the area being measured would be more than 3 feet (40 inches). It is not uncommon to find cheaper units with a DTS of 8:1, the average most common seems to be around 12:1 between 8:1 and 15:1

Recently some more accurate 30:1 DTS thermometers have become available with an accuracy of +/- 0.1 C, gaining you a far greater accuracy over much longer distances. At 15 feet distance the measurement area would be 7 inches out from the red dot or 15 inches in diameter.

Which would you prefer being able to measure a 15 inch area from 4 or 15 feet away, I know my preference, the trouble is the extra range comes at a cost, in this case its the price. These units at present cost close to £150+ each and are still hard to source in the UK. We have been fortunate to get hold of one of these and the initial results are unbelievably good.

We have also come across another type that uses multiple dots to show you the real size of the measured area. When you use one of these you get quite a shock at just how much of an area is actually being measured.

We all have a limit on the depth of our pockets and have to purchase accordingly, just be aware of what the dot ratio in the spec means and don't just look at the temperature measurement accuracy (usually +/- 0.5 C)
 

Others

There are also various remote thermometers measuring thermometers available, normally these are used to monitor inside and outside temperatures, these are freely available from many sources, but make sure what the range is if its RF and if a cable is used that you can extend it if necessary without upsetting the electronics.

The units that we have seen are RF and have an amazing 200 metre range. I was astounded to here that some of these units were able to monitor temperatures in Michelham Priory Gatehouse from inside the main building.

Anyone that does not know the layout should know that the walls are substantial and its a fair distance on foot from the house to the Gatehouse.
 

© County Society for Paranormal Investigation and Research - 2008


Last Updated 27/07/2008