OLYMPUS launches the new scope unit, IPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1.

OLYMPUS launches the new scope unit,

IPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1.

This scope unit featuring object retrieval tools is a new addition

to the IPLEX FXindustrial videoscope series.

-TheIV8000-2, an enhanced version of the base unit, also goes on sale -

On October 20, 2008, Olympus Corporation will simultaneously launch worldwide the IPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1 featuring new object retrieval tools, as one of the IPLEX FX series of industrial videoscopes. The IV8000-2 featuring additional functions to the IPLEX FX base unit will be also launched at the same time.

The IPLEX FX industrial videoscopes, which are fully dust-proof, rain-proof, drop-proof up to 1.2m, and have a compact body the same size as a small computer bag, are popular for performing non-destructive testing in harsh environments.

The scope unit IV8635X1 that will go on sale coming with new object retrieval tools attachable to the end of the scope. In addition to performing conventional tasks such as visual inspections and measurements, they increase the versatility of the scope unit, enabling the operator to retrieve foreign or fallen objects.

The base unit IV8000-2 is equipped with an outdoor-use, daylight-view LCD monitor, which can display clear images even under strong sunlight. The monitor expands the usability outdoors and complements the dust-proof and rain-proof ability of the IPLEX FX. The addition of ImageNotepad ^TM to the IV8000-2 also enables the operator to enter comments on recorded images for the efficient creation of reports that are an integral part of inspections.

Overview of Launch

The IV8000-2 base unit andIPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1scope unit for theIPLEX FXindustrial videoscopes

Principal Features

IPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1

1. New internal working channel scope with tools to retrieve foreign or fallen objects.

2. Six types of object retrieval tools are attachable to the scope, including Magnet and Grasper, and the tools are interchangeable according to purpose.

3. As all the IPLEX FX scope units are detachable from their base units, the IV8635X1 can be mounted on the previous IPLEX FX base units.

IV8000-2 IPLEX FX base unit

1. Newly-mounted, large 6.5-inch LCD monitor for outdoor use.

2. The addition of ImageNotepad ^TM enables comments to be entered on recorded images.

3. Drop-proof up to 1.2m ^*1, and fully dust-proof and rain-proof ^*2.

4. The compact body of the same size as a small computer bag, powered by long-lasting batteries, allows the operator to work in various locations.

*1 Excluding the LCD. Complies with MIL Standard 810 ( United States Defense Standards), Method 516.5.

*2 Complies with MIL Standard 810, Method 510.4/506.4 (United States Defense Standards) / IP55 (A degree of protection defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission [IEC], which indicates the ability of a device to withstand the ingress of dust or water.)

Detailed Information on the Principal Features

IPLEX FX Internal Working Channel Scope IV8635X1

1.　New internal working channel scope with tools to retrieve foreign or fallen objects.

Interchangeable scope with integrated working channel

The IPLEX FX features interchangeable scope units for configuration flexibility to meet the needs of a wide range of inspections. The new 6.2-mm diameter working channel scope is ideally suited for foreign object retrieval and hook/drag applications.

Combining the working channel into the insertion tubeminimizes the scope diameter for use in very small and narrow places and transforms the IPLEX FX into a fast and efficient retrieval tool system.

Other non-working channel scope units are available in 4.0-mm and 6.0-mm diameters with lengths of up to 18.0 m. The tungsten braided insertion tube with Tough Tapered Flex design provides excellent insertability and fray resistance.

2.　Six types of object retrieval tools are attachable to the scope, including Magnet and Grasper, and the tools are interchangeable according to purpose.

· Select from the six object retrieval tools according to the object to be retrieved.

· When no tool is attached, the scope can be used for usual visual inspections.

· The following six tools are available.

Six versatile retrieval tools

Alligator

For retrieving large objects

Basket

For retrieving spherical objects

Magnet

For retrieving magnetic objects

Snare

For retrieving protruding objects

Grasper

For retrieving small objects

Hook

To aid scope navigation when inspecting intricate engines

3.　As all the IPLEX FX scope units are detachable from their base units, the IV8635X1 can be mounted on the previous IPLEX FX base units.

The base unit and scope are separate units and are fully detachable for use in various combinations.

IV8000-2 IPLEX FX base unit

1.　Newly-mounted, large 6.5-inch LCD monitor for outdoor use.

Daylight-view High Resolution LCD Monitor

Clear observation in direct sunlight is made possible with the new 6.5-inch daylight-view LCD monitor, which is the minimum recommended screen size for accurate and reliable observation of fine detail. Color reproduction and contrast are maintained, ensuring inspections are not compromised when working outdoors. The environmental resistance of the LCD also matches that of the IPLEX FX.

2.　The addition of ImageNotepad ^TM enables comments to be entered on recorded images.

ImageNotepad™for Extended Image Annotation

Information frequently needs to be added to images to aid post-inspection diagnosis and create reports. The IPLEX FX makes this process an integral part of inspections with easy-to-use ImageNotepad™. Fields for titles and text are available for entering key words and phrases to allow extended descriptions of inspected objects. Additionally, text input is simplified by displaying a list of predicted words each time a letter is entered. This valuable information is immediately accessible as part of each image when inspection data is transferred to a computer.

3. Drop-proof up to 1.2m*1, and fully dust-proof and rain-proof *2.

Outstanding portability and durability

The compact and rugged IPLEX FX is easy to use in harsh environments, thanks to its compliance with MIL-STD-810F, ensuring resistance to rain, wind, dust and humidity as well as physical shock.

4. The compact body of the same size as a small computer bag, powered by long-lasting batteries, allows the operator to work in various locations.

　Compact, lightweight body for improved portability

Drastic streamlining has created a system as small as a small computer bag. The IPLEX FX is equipped with a large-capacity lithium-ion battery that can power the system for 150 minutes. For hands-free operation, the IPLEX FX can be attached to a specially designed belt.

*The names of companies and technologies cited in this press release are trademarks of companies concerned.