This camera features 2x and 4x zoom capabilities, long battery life, and an ability to run on rechargeable or AA batteries. Its ergonomic ambidextrous design allows easy access to display brightness, white hot/black hot display, capture button, and zoom. Additionally, the BHS series could be fielded for approximately two days on the standby mode before needing recharging, as opposed to 4 to 6 hours while turning it on and off.
I was impressed with the BHS Series device's camera and video capability. I experimented with the video and snapshots in an underground tunnel in total darkness. While conducting a sweep for evidence after an armed suspect had been located inside, I was able to quickly capture high fidelity pictures and store them on a removable SD card. They were very clear and the pictures and video obtained were rapidly transferred to the PC using the USB 2.0 connection. The device’s use as a camera in law enforcement proved to be a valuable tool.
I would like to add that, having been deployed overseas, I understand the benefit of layering your observation platforms. Any device has limitations and capabilities that another might not have. Using multiple types of devices will speed the process of identification and increase officer safety.
If I had to change anything about this product it would be the manual focus. It is useful and precise if you have time to focus it. However, the amount of time to refocus is significant. In an environment where you need to repeatedly change focus from objects near and far this could become problematic. But this could be mitigated by layering your observation platforms, including designating someone to simply use his or her eyes.
Overall, I found FLIR's Bi-Ocular Handheld Thermal Camera and Video Recorder to be a valuable law enforcement tool.
