The Triplett PT12 ProTemp non-contact infrared thermometer measures surface temperature from a distance for safe measurement of heating and air conditioning, industrial, electrical, and food-service systems. The user can select whether the temperature is displayed in degrees Fahrenheit (F) or Celsius (C). The thermometer measures temperature from -26 to 572 degrees F and -32 to 300 degrees C, with an accuracy of + or - 5 degrees F from -26 to 32 degrees F (-32 to 0 degrees C), + or - 3 degrees F from 32 to 77 degrees F (0 to 25C), and + or - 4 degrees F or 2 percent (whichever is larger) from 77 to 572 degrees F (25 to 300 degrees C). The thermometer has a 12 to 1 distance-to-spot ratio with user-selectable laser sighting to pinpoint the measurement area. The LCD display is backlit for viewing under low-light conditions. A data-hold function maintains the temperature reading for 20 seconds after the trigger has been released. The PT12 is used to measure the temperature of hot and cold food products, heating and air conditioning units, electrical connections, engine parts, and other surfaces. Digital infrared thermometers measure the temperature of surfaces from a distance. They may measure temperature in Celsius, Fahrenheit, or both. Infrared (IR) thermometers work by focusing the infrared radiation emitted by a surface onto a detector called a thermopile. The thermopile turns the heat into electricity, which is measured and converted to a temperature reading. The reading is then displayed on an LCD display. IR thermometers are used to measure temperature when an object is fragile, as in ear thermometers, or dangerous to be near, as in the case of industrial equipment. Triplett manufactures test equipment for electricians, home security installers, and telecommunications technicians. The company, founded in 1904, is headquartered in Manchester, NH.