What is MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared)?

Mid-wave infrared or MWIR is a subset of the infrared band of the electromagnetic spectrum, covering the wavelengths ranging from 3µm to 5µm (3,000 to 5,000nm). This is the radiant heat that uncooled thermal imaging cameras see.

MWIR thermal cameras are capable of achieving the longest range detection for thermal infrared surveillance cameras and are often cooled via cyro-cooler, allowing them to offer extreme range with high contrast and little noise.

For more information about thermal infrared imaging for night vision and surveillance see our Thermal Imaging Explained page.