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TF-HCF-CAM : Rugged 3G-SDI Cockpit & Hoist Camera

Techfury Video Systems Advanced MIL-SPEC Cockpit & Hoist Camera
 
The TF-HCF-CAM is a miniature, MIL-SPEC 3G-SDI/HD-SDI camera engineered for cockpit and hoist applications in both military and commercial aviation environments. The housing is precision-milled from 7075-T6 aluminum, providing exceptional mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, and is finished to MIL-A-8625 Type II anodization standards. The enclosure is IP67 rated for dust and water ingress protection, ensuring reliable operation in harsh and demanding conditions.
 
Measuring only 80mm x 30mm x 30mm and weighing 149g, the TF-HCF-CAM is designed for installations where space and weight are critical constraints. The included robust mounting bracket enables secure attachment in confined spaces. 
 
The camera integrates a Panasonic 1/3” imaging sensor, delivering 2MP high-definition video output at resolutions up to 1920x1080. Dual simultaneous outputs—3G-SDI/HD-SDI and analog/CVBS—allow for parallel connection to digital recorders and analog displays, such as the Garmin G500, supporting both live monitoring and recording workflows.
 
A key innovation is the Helical-Centroid Focusing (HCF) system, which enables precise adjustment of the sensor-to-lens distance. This mechanism provides a broad field of view range and fine focus control, especially for close-range imaging, outperforming conventional lens focusing techniques. 
 
Additional technical features include:
  • Internal anti-vibration mechanism for stable image capture in high-vibration environments
  • Electronic shutter for minimizing motion blur and image distortion
  • Auto day/night mode, which automatically switches to monochrome imaging under low-light conditions for enhanced sensitivity
  • Multiple lens options, including a standard 3.7mm lens, to accommodate a variety of operational requirements 
 
The TF-HCF-CAM supports RS485 remote control for integration into advanced avionics and surveillance systems. Power input is flexible, accepting 12VDC or an optional 10–32VDC internal power supply, with a maximum current draw of 150mA. The camera is rated for operation in extreme temperatures from -30°C to +85°C, ensuring performance in both arctic and desert environments. 
 
With its combination of rugged construction, advanced imaging technology, and versatile integration options, the TF-HCF-CAM is an optimal solution for mission-critical video applications where reliability, image quality, and compactness are paramount.

  • Key Features:

    • Rugged Construction: Military-grade 7075-T6 aluminum housing ensures exceptional strength and protection, making it suitable for both military and commercial applications.
    • Compact Design: With dimensions of just 80mm x 30mm x 30mm and a weight of 149g, the TF-HCF-CAM is ideal for installations in tight spaces. It comes with a robust mounting bracket for secure placement. 
    • Dual Output Capability: Simultaneously provides 3G-SDI/HD-SDI and analog/CVBS outputs, allowing integration with multiple devices such as DVRs and live monitors (e.g., Garmin G500). 
    • High-Definition Imaging: Utilizes a Panasonic 1/3” imaging sensor to deliver crisp, 2MP high-definition images at resolutions up to 1920x1080. 
    • Versatile Lens Options: Offers a range of lens choices, including a standard 3.7mm lens, to accommodate various fields of view from ultra-wide to extremely narrow. 
    • Helical-Centroid Focusing (HCF): This advanced focusing method, typically found in high-end military cameras, allows for precise adjustments by varying the distance between the sensor and lens. It provides a broader field of view and fine-tuned focus, especially at close range. 
    • Image Quality Enhancements: Features an electronic shutter to minimize distortion, blur, and noise when capturing fast-moving objects, and an anti-vibration mechanism for stable imaging. 
    • Auto Day/Night Function: Automatically switches to monochrome in low-light conditions to maintain image clarity. 
    • Flexible Power Input: Operates on 12VDC or an optional 10-32VDC input, with a maximum current draw of 150mA. 
    • Wide Operating Temperature: Designed to function reliably in extreme temperatures, from -30°C to +85°C. 
    • RS485 Control: Enables remote camera control for integration into complex systems.

  • Applications:

    The TF-HCF-CAM is engineered for versatility and reliability in a wide range of demanding environments. Its compact size, rugged construction, and advanced imaging capabilities make it suitable for the following applications:

    1. Military and Commercial Aviation

    • Cockpit Monitoring: The camera’s miniature form factor and robust mounting bracket allow for discreet installation in aircraft cockpits, providing high-definition video for pilot monitoring, flight data recording, and incident review.
    • Hoist Operations: Designed to withstand vibration and extreme temperatures, the TF-HCF-CAM is ideal for monitoring hoist mechanisms and external operations on helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, ensuring safety and operational oversight. 

    2. Surveillance and Reconnaissance

    • Vehicle Integration: The camera’s MIL-SPEC housing and IP67 rating enable deployment on ground vehicles, unmanned systems, and naval platforms for real-time situational awareness and mission recording.
    • Perimeter Security: Its dual output capability allows simultaneous integration with digital recorders and analog monitors, supporting both live surveillance and archival footage. 

    3. Industrial and Commercial Applications

    • Process Monitoring: The TF-HCF-CAM’s high-definition imaging and electronic shutter make it suitable for monitoring fast-moving machinery, conveyor systems, and automated processes in industrial environments.
    • Quality Control: The camera’s precise focusing system and multiple lens options enable detailed inspection tasks, capturing fine details for quality assurance and defect detection. 

    4. Research and Development

    • Test Environments: With its wide operating temperature range and anti-vibration mechanism, the TF-HCF-CAM is well-suited for use in laboratory and field testing, including high-speed motion analysis and environmental stress testing. 

    5. Specialized Use Cases

    • Low-Light and Night Operations: The auto day/night feature ensures reliable image capture in varying lighting conditions, automatically switching to monochrome mode in low-light scenarios for enhanced visibility. 
    • Custom Integrations: RS485 control and flexible power input options allow seamless integration into custom systems, including remote-controlled platforms and advanced avionics suites.

  • Global Shutter vs Rolling Shutter

    For those who are not familiar, “rolling shutter” is a technical term referring to the way the image sensor scans the image. If the sensor employs a rolling shutter, this means the image is scanned sequentially, from one side of the sensor (usually the top) to the other, line by line. In contrast to that, “global shutter” is the technical term referring to sensors that scan the entire area of the image simultaneously.

  • Lens Options:

    2.9mm Lens = 175° Horizontal Field of View (Ultra-Wide)

    3.4mm Lens = 105° Horizontal Field of View (Standard)

    8.0mm Lens = 48° Horizontal Field of View

    16.0mm Lens = 25° Horizontal Field of View (Zoomed in)

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