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Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20 Review

Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Milwaukee
Model number: 2257-20
Price: 299.00
Power source: 9 Volt Battery

Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20 Targets PROs

Milwaukee has targeted professional tradesmen for this particular tool. It is best used to diagnose and troubleshoot current and possible issues. From balky HVAC units to faulty wiring in electric panels, a tradesman can use this thermal imager to solve problems before they become larger and can reduce the amount of time troubleshooting to become more efficient and productive in the field.

Infrared thermal imaging has been on every professional tradesman’s radar/want-list since they were introduced, but high prices, bulky units and delicate parts have stood in their way. Milwaukee’s new line of thermal imaging products, including the Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager (2257-20), have attempted to change the narrative, and I believe they have accomplished just that.

Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20

Specifications

• 102×77 Spot Infrared Imager (2257-20)
• Temperature Range: 14° – 646°F
• Color Palette: Iron Bow
• Emissivity: Fixed at .95
• Runtime on 9V Alkaline Battery: 4+ hours
• Includes 2257-20 and (1) 9V Battery

Using the Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager

The Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager is powered by one 9v battery (included) and besides installing the battery, requires no setup to begin use. This is definitely the easiest-to-operate imager I have ever gotten my hands on. The battery is located inside the rubber molded handle and is accessed with a flat screwdriver.  A simple 180 degree turn releases the battery door. I would have preferred a tool-free access, but this is a very minor issue. Beneath the battery, there is a switch for Fahrenheit or Celsius preference.

As a general contractor and remodeler, I will most often use this tool to diagnose energy efficiency in windows and doors. It will still be useful to double-check sub-contracted tradesmen to ensure there are no issues prior to finishing. This will be extremely useful to limit embarrassing and costly call-backs.

The build quality of this imager feels robust and comfortable. I am not afraid that any parts are going to be easily damaged as I have with past tools. The screen and lens are recessed into a protective molded rubber unit to help reduce the possibility of damaging the unit. The vitals of this imager are protected well from minor bumps and drops that occur in real-life application. Pulling the trigger activates the imager and when released, the image stays on the screen for 15 seconds.

Screen Image Clarity – Dual Sense Pixel Technology

The most important aspects of this imager are clarity and accuracy. The unit appears to be very accurate, reading temperatures to 1/10 of a unit. All I can say for the clarity is WOW! With what Milwaukee calls their DUAL SENSE Pixel Technology, I have never used an imager with the pixel count and clarity of this unit. I have always struggled in the past with being able to know exactly what I am looking at, but the image is clear, concise and the blurring of colors is minimal. The range on this unit is also particularly impressive. It reads up to 56’ with a 1” spot of measurement.

Improvements

As mentioned before, one very minor issue I have is the lack of a tool-free battery access. When in the field, having to look for another tool can be frustrating, but the target users of this tool will most likely have a flat screw driver handy.

Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20

Cost

The Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20 sells online for $299.00.

Overall Impression

After using the Milwaukee 102 x 77 Spot Infrared Imager 2257-20, I can, without hesitation, say this tool is fantastic. It is extremely easy to operate, tough enough to withstand the rigors of real life operation and the clarity is truly amazing. Any professional tradesman or contractor looking to get into thermal imaging, should absolutely give this tool a try.

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