FAQ

TigIR

What is included in the scope of delivery?

In addition to your TigIR™, the standard scope of delivery also includes the following components

  • a manual
  • a quick guide
  • 4x batteries CD123
  • 1x cleaning cloth
  • 1x thread cap
  • 1x sturdy outdoor case

When will the TigIR™ be available again?

We continue to continuously increase our production speed in TigIR production. However, due to the equally increasing demand, we will not be able to build up inventory for the time being. At least we managed to reduce delivery times to two months in the last few months. Unfortunately, the most popular TigIR models are usually not available in the shop. We therefore recommend that you simply write us a message and order a TigIR™. You will then receive a device directly from ongoing production in the order in which the order is received. We would be happy to inform you of the current delivery time in advance. Please understand that we will still not be able to provide any devices for testing in the medium term, as binding orders from our customers have priority. However, if there is enough demand, we would be happy to organize a thermal imaging workshop in your region, where you can take a look at the TigIR in person and also receive a complete introduction to the device's functions.

Talk to us: info@andres-industries.de

How long is the delivery time?

We regret that you sometimes have to wait longer for a device, but since we want to ensure the quality of the TigIR™, we can only expand our capacities slowly. In order to achieve high precision, many production steps are necessary. We are constantly looking for new employees for our production and train them in the production and adjustment of the devices. We have already doubled production capacity twice. Nevertheless, demand continues to increase.

If you are interested in a TigIR™ and it is not immediately available, please ask by email for current delivery times.

Is the device perhaps available for testing?

We can understand that an investment like a TigIR requires extensive decision making up front. We would therefore be pleased if we could provide you with a TigIR as a loan device on a weekly or longer basis. Don't be afraid to try everything out and ask us anything you want to know. We are happy to provide the appropriate assembly as part of the rental. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that sufficient devices will be available at all times.

I would like to buy this product as a private individual. Is that possible?

That is possible. Within the EU, the TigIR-3Z and the TigIR-6Z+™ can be purchased freely as long as they are used for civil purposes, for example for hunting. This must be marked accordingly in the EUC. The TigIR can also be resold within the EU. However, the buyer in question should fulfill the same requirements in their own interest.

Within the following non-EU countries, clarification from BAFA is required:
USA, Canada, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Liechtenstein, New Zealand. Please contact our sales department before purchasing. This will then carry out the necessary formalities.

How long is the guarantee or warranty for the device?

The guarantee is 2 years. This can be extended up to 5 years within 2 weeks of purchase (see TigIR manual).

What is the difference between the TigIR-6Z+ and the TigIR-6M?

  • The difference between the TigIR-6Z+ and the M is:

    The TigIR-6Z+ has a thread to which the Rusan adapter or a plug-in eyepiece can be screwed directly. It can also be used as a handheld device.
  • It does not have its own reticle, so it can only be used as an attachment or hand-held device.

    Both models are equally good in terms of image quality, thermal and pixel resolution as well as frame rate (60Hz).

Will there be another version of the TigIR-6Z+ in the foreseeable future?

This is currently not planned.

What does SPC mean?

SPC stands for subpixel collimation, i.e. the collimation of the displayed image in steps below the area of ​​a single pixel as recorded by the sensor. In contrast to all other attachments we know of, the TigIR has this particularly helpful feature, which, in conjunction with AI upscaling, enables exceptionally high precision.

The aim of collimation is to achieve an exact superimposition of the original image in the rifle scope and the thermal image at all zoom levels by very finely shifting the screen. Only then can optimal precision be achieved. In the collimation menu, the screen can be optimized slightly or the zoom levels can be optimized more. In conjunction with AI upscaling, an exceptionally high level of precision can be achieved.

Can I mount the device on a tripod?

Yes. The TigIR-Z™ can be mounted on any standard camera tripod.

Is a screen with a resolution of 873×500 pixels sufficient and what does Micro-OLED mean?

Since the sensor has a resolution of 640 pixels, the screen is clearly sufficient. Micro-OLED means that it is an extremely small OLED, which is produced on a waver using the deposition process. In contrast, for example, to large OLEDs that are known from flat screens. These are more likely to be printed.

Is it possible to transfer a live image to a monitor and save it?

Unfortunately, our recording device is not available until further notice.

Approximately how many operating hours can the device last until the end of its life? Recoil resistance up to which caliber?

For thermal imaging devices, we assume 100,000 operating hours.

The TigIR-M has so far been successfully shot up to .50 BMG caliber. We do not differentiate between hunting and other calibers. However, the following must be taken into account when making this classification:

It is fundamentally true that larger calibers also generate more recoil energy. However, when assessing potential damage to the device, it must be taken into account that this can be caused not only by the amount of energy, but also by direction and frequency. Certain weapons can cause surprising problems even with smaller calibers, for example when resonance frequencies arise. However, we are currently not aware of any weapons or calibers that cause damage to the current TigIR when used.

2. If it happens that a caliber/weapon combination causes damage, this is covered by the guarantee. Provided that the TigIR is sent to us for repair immediately after the damage occurs and we are told the caliber/weapon used. Based on our findings, we will repair the TigIR accordingly and send it back in a more stable manner. These findings will also immediately be incorporated into series production.

NOTE: Devices opened by the user void any warranty claim.

Calibration NUC

Ask:
I understand that the calibration in NUC mode works without a shutter, purely controlled by software. Does this mean that I don't notice anything when the device is calibrating? Does the image continue to scroll or are there short interruptions? I know from Dipol that the image runs through without an interruption due to the calibration, so that an image is always guaranteed during the shot. Are there any differences in image quality to be expected between the three different types of calibration?

Answer:
NUC always works in the background, but a mechanical shutter is also installed, which works faster, but can cause a brief image stutter. It can therefore be switched off by closing the front flap for 0.5s and opening it again, or by permanently deactivating the shutter in the menu. Of course, you can recalibrate manually at any time using the front flap if this is necessary. This means you have the choice when to calibrate. NUC or software shutters work significantly slower, but without image stuttering and with less energy consumption.

The different types of calibration can result in different image qualities - in order to get the best possible image immediately after switching on the device, we recommend carrying out an NVFFC according to the manual, whereby this value is saved and therefore faster the next time you switch it on ensures a better picture.

Can I mount a Picatinny mount on the bottom of the TigIR-3Z? If yes, which?

Unfortunately, a Picatinny rail mount cannot be mounted directly on the civilian versions of the TigIR. Please note the gun laws in the respective country. It is often forbidden for civilian devices to be retrofitted with weapon holders. As far as we know, this is currently allowed in Germany (as of 2021) for hunting license holders. The Federal Criminal Police Office has also published a leaflet on this topic:
Information sheet on night vision attachments and night vision attachments (bka.de).

At what distance can I (approximately) address a leader stream with mammals with the TigIR-6Z+?

Of course, this depends on a variety of factors - the thermal conditions, the size of the streams and the mammals, how strong this is and of course how the piece is situated. However, an important prerequisite is the hunter's experience in assessing thermal images. However, under optimal conditions, distances of over 100m are certainly possible.

Why is the image so small when you look directly at it and cannot be enlarged?

The TigIR-Z™ was designed as an attachment device, so it can be mounted directly in front of a magnifying lens. A 3x magnification is ideal. If you would like to use the device as a handheld device, we have a 3x plug-in eyepiece for this purpose. If you need a hand-held device with the largest possible viewing angle, for example for stalking, we recommend buying a TILO .

Why does the TigIR™ not have a diopter adjustment on the eyepiece?

The TigIR™ is designed as an attachment. It is usually operated in front of a spotting scope or target optics. When these are in focus for the user's eye, the TigIR™ is automatically in perfect focus. There is then another crucial advantage: unlike other attachments, the TigIR™ does not increase the parallax deviation of your rifle scope. Explanation: With a good rifle scope, it doesn't matter much if your eye isn't exactly on the optical axis. Even if the eye is off the axis, the crosshairs always stay in the same place. Nothing changes with the TigIR. Of course, the TigIR can't make a bad IF good. If you want to use the TigIR without downstream optics, for example as a handheld device, you can simply keep your glasses on. The eye relief is sufficient for this and your own glasses are always the best diopter correction. Note: This does not apply to reading glasses, please remove them beforehand.

Focusing the TigIR

Ask:
I understand that the TigIR optics unit is set to infinity by default. How does this work? Most devices I know have to be used at short distances. can be easily corrected over long distances, e.g. B. also my Pulsar Accolade. Why doesn't the TigIR need this adjustment?

Answer:
The TigIR is a designated device with a fixed focus for long ranges focused to infinity. The minimum focus range is approx. 30m. Ex works, you could achieve a shorter focusing range by focusing at a shorter distance, but this would involve a drastic loss of range and precision. In short: the TigIR is not suitable for short ranges.

Due to its technical complexity, changing this very fine setting by the user is neither intended nor recommended. It is not for nothing that the TigIR meets the highest requirements in terms of precision, tightness, shock resistance, etc.

How does the rifle scope focus on the monitor in the device?

The TigIR has fixed focus optics on both the eyepiece and lens sides. The lens is sharp from a distance of around 30m. It's blurry underneath. It's similar with the eyepiece. For people with normal vision it is set to infinity sharp. People who wear glasses can simply wear their glasses, there is enough space for that. When using the plug-in eyepiece, it can be manually adjusted to your own visual acuity. When used as an attachment in front of an ZF, the latter has an eyepiece focus, which should also be used. This should also be set to infinity beforehand.

Which Rusan adapter do I need for the rifle scope I want?

This depends on the outside diameter of your rifle scope on the lens side. Please measure this exactly and let us know the size - then we can give you the right adapter.

Which is the better assembly? With a Rusan adapter on the ZF or better directly on the Picatinny rail?

By far, mounting directly on the STANAG 4694 rail (Picatinny) is the mounting with the highest precision. In addition to the excellent repeatability of the attachment, the load on the IF is also practically eliminated. For example, we recommend using an ERATAC assembly for the TigIR-6M, which is also available from us.

Is it possible to turn off the TigIR™ if the flap is broken?

The device can be switched on or off manually by long pressing button 4.

How robust is the rubber band for the protective cover mechanism in terms of fatigue? Can this also be replaced if it is defective?

There have been significant improvements in the durability of the rubber band since the first version of the TigIR. Since then, our customers have not needed any repairs. Should it happen that a replacement is necessary, there is a replacement flap with a rubber band here:

Skilled users can repair the rubber band on their own or simply with a 2mm elastic cord, cable tie and ring cable lug. It only costs €5 to make it yourself. And you can also choose the color of the ribbon yourself.

What is the clamping screw for?

The TigIR-Z™ is fully compatible with the universal Rusan system ARM52 / AD540. There is a suitable adapter for practically every outer lens diameter of your camera or spotting scope (30mm-80mm). It is very easy to use: the adapter is simply screwed onto the eyepiece thread of the TigIR™ and fixed there in the optimal position by unscrewing the clamping screw. The other side of the adapter is then pushed onto a spotting scope, for example, and locked with the lever. Once this has been done, collimation can also be carried out, although this is rarely necessary as the TigIR-Z™ is already pre-collimated at the factory.

Can you upgrade to another TigIR™ model using the Upgrade Service?

So if I have the TigIR-3Z™, can I upgrade it to the TigIR-6Z+™? Unfortunately this is not possible. For an upgrade, at least the thermal imaging sensor must remain the same. However, since the 3Z has a 320×256 sensor and the 6Z+ has a 640×512 pixel sensor, such a big step requires a new purchase. An upgrade only includes software and hardware adjustments to bring the model up to date.

What maximum magnification of the rifle scope is the TigIR-6Z+™ compatible with?

The TigIR-6Z+™ delivers the best quality for rifle scopes with 3x magnification. It is also still easy to use at 5x magnification. We are currently working on the TigIR-6Z+.05, which will be optimized for 6x magnifications. Accordingly, magnifications of 10x and more will also be possible in the future. The device will be available in approximately 3 months.

With which caliber can the TigIR™ be used without problems?

The most powerful caliber we have tested so far was .50 BMG (300 rounds). Certification is basically no problem. However, due to the high cost of ammunition, a larger order would have to be placed in the background. We guarantee that the TigIR™ will work perfectly even with larger calibers and will not be damaged. If damage does occur, it will be repaired free of charge within the warranty period of 2 years. Because the TigIR™ has a very long range, it is often used by customers who shoot with heavy calibers. Due to the continuous optimization and improvement of the device, there were no failures for our customers last year.

TILO

I am interested in the TILO™, but I don't live in Berlin. Is there somewhere I can watch them?

Unfortunately, we only have a few dealers who have a TILO™ in stock and can demonstrate it to interested customers. Therefore there are the following options:

  • We ourselves go to trade fairs across Europe and present our devices there. These are often government trade fairs to which private users are not allowed.
  • The simplest solution is to order the TILO™ from us as a trial. You are welcome to return it within 14 days if you don't like it.
  • If you represent a group of interested parties, e.g. a hunting group or similar, we or one of our dealers would be happy to visit you and hold a night vision workshop.
  • Some dealers have the TILO™ in stock. Maybe there is one near you.

Can I also rent a TILO?

You can also rent the TILO™ from us - either the 3Z+ model or the 6Z+ model. Our corresponding subpage contains all information about this. However, since the thermal imaging goggles represent a high value, we have to charge a security deposit, which we will of course refund to you afterwards.

If you don't want to part with your rented TILO, we also have a particularly interesting offer: Rental customers who decide to buy the TILO will receive the full rental price as a credit towards their purchase.

When will the TILO™ be available again?

We are continually increasing our production speed. Nevertheless, it is rare that we produce enough devices to sell them out of stock. Therefore, the most popular TILO™ models are usually not available in the shop. We therefore recommend that you simply write us a message and pre-order a TILO™. You will then receive a device directly from ongoing production. You will then also find out the exact delivery time. It's currently 1-2 weeks.

Compared to other devices, the thermal image of the TILO™ looks as if there is a fine structure over it, like a curtain. Where does it come from?

We consciously avoid using soft focus when preparing the images, but rather focus on tactical requirements. Therefore, we use the edge enhancement function to make structures even more visible. Unfortunately, as a side effect, the noise is increased somewhat. Compared to conventional devices, where the image looks nicer, we achieve higher contrast and sharper images.

Can you also upgrade to another TILO™ model using the upgrade service? For example, can I have my TILO-3Z+™ upgraded to the TILO-6Z+™?

Unfortunately this is not possible. For an upgrade, at least the thermal imaging sensor must remain the same. However, since the 3Z+ has a 320×240 sensor and the 6Z+ has a 640×512 pixel sensor, such a big step requires a new purchase. An upgrade only includes software and hardware adjustments to bring the model up to date. Unfortunately, the same applies to the Z. This cannot be upgraded to the Z+ because it is a 9Hz core with a lower thermal resolution.

I would like to buy this product as a private individual. I can buy that without much problem, right? It's for civil use.

Correct. Within the following countries, the TILO-Z+™ series can be freely purchased as long as they are used for civil purposes. This must be marked accordingly in the end user declaration (EUC). The TILO™ may also be resold within the countries listed below. However, the buyer in question should fulfill the same requirements in their own interest.

List of countries: EU, USA, Canada, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Liechtenstein

Why does the TILO™ have an infrared LED built in? The thermal imaging device doesn't need an IR illuminator?

The TILO™ was designed as a thermal helmet lamp. Many helmet lights have an IR light, although they cannot 'see' IR light either. With the different flashing modes, the TILO™ can also be used, for example, to recognize one's own strength. Of course, only if residual light amplifiers are used. Another thing to note about the IR LED is that it works in a frequency range that can only be clearly seen by Gen 2 tubes. These are manufactured by Photonis. For US Gen 3 tubes, the IR light of the TILO™ is almost invisible. If the IR light on the TILO™ is not needed, it can also be deactivated.

Is it possible to turn off the TILO™ if the flap is broken?

You can turn off the TILO™ manually by long pressing buttons 1+4. By the way, it can also be switched on again.

Why is the Tilo-6M™ only made available to authorities when everything is exactly the same as with the TILO-6Z+™?

In fact, apart from the color, there is currently no technical difference. The TILO-M series was originally planned with a reticle and was therefore classified accordingly. However, this has not been implemented to date. There are also various export restrictions that exclude the sale of a civilian TILO™ to military users. Military users are regularly only supplied with the M variants of our devices. This causes significantly more administrative effort, which we can save ourselves when selling the Z variants to civilian users.

Is it possible to transfer a live image to a monitor and save it?

Yes. With the video recorder you can record photos or videos directly onto a micro SD card and transfer them to a mobile device (cell phone or tablet) via WLAN using an app.

How does the government version differ from civilian versions?

The differences are as follows:

Bayonet adapter:
The TILO-6M™ and the TILO-6MA™ already have a bayonet mount on the eyepiece side ex works for securely attaching a shutter eyecup. The civilian devices only have a plastic holder for the rubber eyecup. The bayonet ring, for example, would have to be ordered separately. It is usually included with the corresponding accessories.

E.g. at the Shuttereyecup:
The M devices can therefore also be used as attachments in front of cameras and other optics.

Color:
The civilian version is usually produced in black.

Material:
The housing of the TILO-6MA™ is made of corrosion-resistant aluminum. Here the bayonet adapter is already part of the housing. The housing of the 6M and 6Z+, on the other hand, is made of polyamide, which is reinforced with nanotubes.

Export restriction:
The M versions are more heavily export restricted, so they are only given to authorities.

What is AI pixel upscaling?

The sensor of the TILO-6™ “only” has a resolution of 640 pixels horizontally. This is standard on the market, but rather weak compared to light-optical cameras. If the 2x electronic zoom is now activated, this resolution drops to 320 pixels and these are drawn onto the screen. At 4x magnification there are only 160 pixels, which also have to be displayed on a screen with 640 pixels. The result of this process would be ever larger square blocks. The word “pixels” has become commonplace in everyday language. At 4x magnification at the latest, the human brain is hardly able to interpret the actual image information because the pixels are only perceived as squares. To remedy this, we use a function in our thermal imaging devices that everyone is familiar with, for example when playing a DVD on a modern 4K screen. The screen itself upscales the image to the better screen resolution. In the best case, a fractal, AI-controlled upscaling algorithm is used for this. This not only smooths the edges, but also recalculates the entire image based on the overall image information. This gives you a much sharper but, above all, high-resolution image. Individual pixels are almost no longer visible. With this technology, even 8x digital magnifications are still helpful. The image becomes a little blurrier, but can still be interpreted by the user. For this reason, we recommend using the zoom levels even when using it as an attachment, as these can significantly increase the range. (Attention: When using the zoom levels, they must also have been individually collimated beforehand.)

What does SPC mean?

SPC stands for subpixel collimation, i.e. the collimation of the displayed image in steps below the area of ​​a single pixel as recorded by the sensor. In contrast to all other devices we know of, the TILO has this particularly helpful feature, which, in conjunction with AI upscaling, enables exceptionally high precision.

The aim of collimation is to achieve an exact superimposition of the original image in the rifle scope and the thermal image at all zoom levels by very finely shifting the screen. Only then can optimal precision be achieved.
In the collimation menu, the screen can be optimized slightly or the zoom levels can be optimized more. In conjunction with AI upscaling, an exceptionally high level of precision can be achieved.