FLIR Tools obsolete - Replaced with subscription based Thermal Studio ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2021, 01:29:17 pm
content: I was just having a look at the latest models in the FLIR E semi-professional series and noted that these cameras are now supplied with Thermal Studio Software BUT it is a subscription service with just 3 months provided with the camera ! If FLIR have effectively ceased providing free simple analysis software with their cameras then shame on them. They are going backwards in time where PC software was an expensive option. The latest trend in the World seems to be to ‘trap’ customers in a Subscription sales model where the manufacturer continues to extract money from the customer on an ongoing basis as an additional revenue stream. I was impressed when FLIR provided the basic FLIR Tools for free with cameras. Users could upgrade to Tools+ if they needed the added functionality as a one off cost, not a subscription. I own ResearchIR4 Max USB Licence Dongles that do not expire. The replacement Researcher Studio Suite is a yearly subscription model. No thanks, I will not be upgrading to that any time soon !Have I missed a free Official FLIR replacement for FLIR Tools by any chance ? ….. I did not look very hardI know FLIR Tools is still available for download so at least FLIR did not withdraw its download and activation ! I have Tools+ but rarely use it so no great loss to me but I was sad to see the introduction of the subscription model on the new software releases.Fraser

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2021, 01:35:00 pm
content: I stand corrected….. FLIR do offer a reduced functionality Thermal Studio ‘Subscription’ Plan at £0 per year.https://www.flir.co.uk/instruments/thermal-studio-plan-selection/Good to seeThe yearly subscription for more advanced capabilities is not inexpensive though

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 10:16:46 pm
content: What is required to download ?Thanks again

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 10:28:50 pm
content: I won't do subscription for standalone desktop software even if it's free. I am fundamentally against that whole business model and refuse to support it.

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 11:26:15 pm
content: KD0CAC John,You need to create an account with FLIR so personal details will be collected. Once you have an account you can submit a subscription request and select the $0 subscription. You then get a download link and a licence for 1 year.Fraser

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 11:30:36 pm
content: I followed the link , and saw some of that , figured I would have to register to their site .I should have left the idea of , is there a downside , I have not hacked my new to me F3 ?Thanks

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 11:36:28 pm
content: FLIR have absolutely no interest in whether a user is operating a hacked camera and do not have a ‘kill switch’ or other malicious countermeasure beyond encouraging use of the latest firmware that may be more hack resistant.Some people do not like to give companies their personal details. I have had an account with FLIR for years as such is required to download software. I have never had a problem with FLIR so no down side that I know of.Fraser

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2021, 11:40:03 pm
content: Thanks again .I do agree on the idea of not liking the spreading of breaking up packages & charging for what use to be free = or soon everything will not be allowed to buy & own , it will be buy a lease & they own .RIGHT TO REPAIR