Question

Why does infrared camera that register wavelengths above 800nm cost 10x or 100x more then a normal camera which registers visible light whose wavelength is 300 - 700 nm?

Answer 1

The higher cost of infrared cameras compared to normal visible light cameras is primarily due to the specialized technology and components required to detect and capture infrared radiation.

Here are a few reasons why infrared cameras tend to be more expensive:

1. Sensor Technology: Infrared cameras require specialized sensors, typically based on materials like indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) or mercury cadmium telluride (MCT), which can detect and convert infrared radiation into electrical signals. These sensors are more complex and expensive to manufacture compared to the silicon-based sensors used in visible light cameras.

2. Manufacturing Process: The manufacturing process for infrared cameras is more intricate and involves additional steps to create the necessary sensor structures and layers. This adds to the production cost of the cameras.

3. Lower Demand and Economies of Scale: Infrared cameras have a more limited market compared to visible light cameras, as their applications are specific to certain industries such as thermography, night vision, or scientific research. The lower demand for infrared cameras means that manufacturers cannot benefit from the economies of scale that come with producing cameras in large quantities. This leads to higher per-unit production costs.

4. R&D Investment: Developing and refining the technology for infrared cameras requires significant research and development efforts. The costs associated with advancing the sensor technology, improving sensitivity, and optimizing performance contribute to the higher price of these cameras.

5. Niche Market: Infrared cameras cater to specialized applications that often demand higher performance and accuracy. These cameras are designed for specific purposes such as thermal imaging, surveillance, or scientific analysis. The targeted market and the added capabilities drive up the cost of the cameras.

It's worth noting that as technology advances and the demand for infrared cameras increases, economies of scale might improve, leading to potential cost reductions in the future. However, at present, the complexity and specialized nature of infrared camera technology contribute to their higher price compared to normal visible light cameras.