Porter Cable just announced two new non-contact infrared thermometers – the PCC581B, an 18V-compatible model, and the PCC582B, which takes common 9V batteries. These new IR thermometers are designed for remodelers, HVAC professionals, and energy specialists, but they look to be great for DIY use as well.
18V version, front
Both models feature an easy-to-view temperature indicator beam, which take a reference measurement while projecting a green circle onto the sampled surface. When scanning across a new area, the beam will change to blue when a colder-than-reference temperature is measured, and red for hotter-than-reference temperatures.
The temperature indicator beam, or rather temperature differential indicator, can be used to find hot or cold spots, air leaks around doors, windows, or ductwork, and it can even be used to monitor the operating temperature of bearings and motors. Non-contact IR thermometers are handy devices that can be used for a wide range of applications.
| Temperature Range |
-22° – 590°F |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±1.8° |
| Spot Ratio | 12:1 |
Both IR thermometer versions will retail for ~$60, and will be available in November 2011. The 18V version does not include a charger or battery.
While these new IR thermometers don’t have the same bells and whistles as Dewalt’s 12V Max thermometer, they’re much easier on the wallet, and offer great features for the price.
Im really surprised to see this in 18 volt and not 12 volt.
I am a bit surprised over this as well, but there are probably good reasons why they did this. For more casual use, I think the 9V version will be much more popular. Maybe a 12V version is in the works, but if so, it would have been announced with the others. My thoughts are that 3 versions would have been too many, so they went with the 18V platform in addition to the 9V based on sales and the number of current users.
Yeah, but i think this would have been a perfect addition to their newly emerging 12 volt line. I do however like the 9 volt option, because you dont need to worry about having other 9 volt tools.