0.03°C Thermal Accuracy Claims: Evidence to Request

A claim of 0.03°C measurement accuracy needs an accuracy report for the exact device and conditions; a 30mK NETD figure is not a substitute. This page does not verify that level of accuracy or medical suitability for any Phonemax model.

Distinguish accuracy from sensitivity and display increments

A number shown after a decimal point may describe a display increment rather than a demonstrated error limit. Thermal sensitivity describes another property. FLIR specifically distinguishes NETD from accuracy, so do not convert a 30mK sensitivity statement into a ±0.03°C accuracy guarantee.

Request a report that can be assessed

• The exact device model, serial number or sample identifier, lens and software version.
• The claimed accuracy range and the conditions under which it applies.
• The reference equipment, test method, results and stated measurement uncertainty.
• The report date, responsible laboratory or evaluator and scope of the assessment.
• Any limitations or corrections required by the manufacturer.

Check that the quotation matches the evidence

A report for another module, a different temperature range or a different assembled system does not automatically support the quoted handset. Ask the supplier to explain the relationship and identify the configuration covered by its commitment.

Keep medical authorization separate

An accuracy report alone does not establish a medical intended use. Ask the responsible procurement and clinical teams to review the applicable device documentation. The FDA warns that improper thermal-imaging use can cause inaccurate readings; this page does not offer clinical screening or diagnostic instructions.

Record the decision honestly

Use “verified against the supplied report,” “not demonstrated” or “requires further review” as appropriate. Do not describe an untested device as medical-grade because the advertised number is small. No original calibration or clinical validation results are presented in this article.

Primary sources

FLIR: NETD and detector sensitivity; FDA: improper use of thermal imaging devices (2021 safety context).