KENIS 1280 AK
Cooled thermal imaging sensorThe challenge
Airborne, land- and sea-based observation systems require thermal imaging that can support wide-area surveillance and long-range target identification while fitting within constrained size, weight and power envelopes. The imaging channel must also integrate into higher-level optronic systems, provide responsive video and maintain useful image quality as scenes and operating conditions change. For stabilised gimbals and other multi-sensor platforms, the challenge is to combine high-resolution mid-wave infrared imaging, a broad zoom range, flexible control and video interfaces, and reliable operation across demanding environmental conditions.
Our solution
The KENIS 1280 AK combines a cooled 1280 × 1024 InSb detector with a 3.7 µm to 5 µm spectral band and 30× continuous optical zoom. Its horizontal field of view extends from 1.2° to 36°, with a standard frame rate of 50 Hz and other rates available on request. Low-latency video and advanced image processing support demanding observation tasks, while RS422 or RS485 control and 3G-SDI or CXPoF digital video outputs support system integration. The sensor is Military-controlled; subject exclusively to South African export regulations, RoHS-compliant and qualified to RTCA-DO-160G for an in-gimbal airborne application.
Features and benefits
Features
- Low SWaP with high performance
- Wide continuous zoom range
- 1280 × 1024 InSb detector with a 3.7 µm to 5 µm spectral band
- 30× continuous optical zoom; HFOV 1.2° to 36°
- 50 Hz frame rate (others on request)
- Advanced image processing, including in-service 1- or 3-point NUC, edge enhancement, non-linear histogram equalisation, adaptive dynamic compression, auto/manual gain and offset, LACE, autofocus, image polarity, gamma correction and pseudo colour
- Low-latency video
- Military-controlled; subject exclusively to South African export regulations.
- RoHS-compliant
- Qualified to RTCA-DO-160G, tailored for in-gimbal airborne application
Benefits
- 30× continuous optical zoom supports wide-area observation and long-range target identification within a single thermal imaging channel
- Low SWaP supports integration into platforms where size, weight and power are constrained
- Low-latency video supports responsive observation and tracking, specifically applicable to CUAS
- Advanced image processing provides flexibility to optimise imagery for changing scenes and operating conditions.
- Export controlled - subject only to South African jurisdiction, with no other country or entity applicable.
- RoHS-compliant positioning supports broader integration.
- RTCA-DO-160G qualification is tailored for in-gimbal airborne application
Configuration
KENIS 1280 AK is specified with a standard frame rate of 50 Hz, with other frame rates available on request. System control can be provided via RS422 or RS485, while digital video output can be provided via 3G-SDI or CXPoF. The optical configuration provides 30× continuous zoom across a 1.2° to 36° horizontal field of view. These available frame-rate, control and video-interface options support integration into different higher-level optronic systems while retaining the same 1280 × 1024 cooled InSb thermal imaging core.