After much secrecy, Pulsar has now officially launched its new flagship thermal monocular, the Pulsar Telos LRF XP50.
Sadly, the Pulsar Hellion range has ceased production, however, the new Pulsar Telos is set to continue its legacy and more. Although there is plenty of information about the Pulsar Telos LRF XP50 on the Pulsar website, I have yet to see one for myself. I can only speculate and provide my opinion about this device based upon my research and supplied information. To say that I’m chomping at the bit to get my mitts on one is an understatement!
Remarkable NETD <18mK performance
Net Equivalent Temperature Difference or NETD is a key performance indicator for thermal imaging optics. It is the smallest temperature that can differentiated between objects of a similar temperature. The Telos’s can differentiate betweenobjects that are LESS than 0.018˚C (Eighteen thousandths of a degree Celsius). This places the Pulsar Telos into the same league as scientific photon based cameras with cryogenically cooled detectors costing many hundreds of thousands of dollars. I guess that’s progress, but I am nonetheless astonished. However, I do know that Pulsar and Lynred have worked closely on this project.
The Telos can be upgraded.
According to the manufacturer’s description of the device, ‘Fit it with powerful optics, a higher resolution sensor and display, more efficient and functional electronics, or equip the thermal imaging device with a laser rangefinder and additional optical channels so that you always have the latest device but at the mere cost of upgrades.’ The Telos range will include a variety of specifications that can be changed according to need and as new technologies arise.
New features of note
• Mechanical zoom ring. As a photographer, I find this really appealing. The magnification is adjustable with a zoom ring on the lens in the same way as a camera lens. Don’t underestimate the importance of this.
• New Battery design. The new LPS7i battery requires no charger. It can be charged wirelessly and has a USB-C socket for direct charging. Its 6400 mAh capacity is good for up to 8.5 hours continuous use.
• Redesigned carry bag. This bag can be harnessed around the shoulders and has a quick-entry top for removal and replacement. Sounds great, but cannot comment on its effectiveness.
• Ambidextrous design. The hand strap is fixed to rotatable rings, enabling easy relocation of the strap to either side of the body. The symmetrical design with the buttons in a straight line along the top is ideal for left and right hand use.
• 1000m laser rangefinder. This feature was always on my wish list for the Helion, but now we have it with the Telos. Pulsar’s single channel rangefinder actually measures well over 1000m. I have ranged trees at over 1300m with a Pulsar Merger, I expect the same performance from the Telos.
• It looks gorgeous! Yes, a bit shallow of me, but it is a very sleek, attractive looking device. Slick European design and manufacturing finesse.
