Tradies love their phones being within reach on-site — but what if that same device could double as a powerful diagnostic tool?
That’s the thinking behind Fluke’s new iSee Mobile Thermal Camera range — compact plug-in devices that turn a smartphone into a portable thermal imaging system.
Designed to make fault finding faster, simpler and more accessible, the iSee range gives tradies a lightweight alternative to traditional thermal cameras without sacrificing functionality.
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Sparky and Director of TTS Electrical Tammy Voss said the release of the iSee range completely changed how thermal imaging could be used on site.
“When Fluke released the iSee, it really changed how thermal cameras can be used,” the Geelong-based electrician said.
“Traditionally, thermal cameras have been bulky equipment, but this one is so simple — you just plug it into your phone and get the information right there in front of you.”
Instead of carrying standalone thermal imaging equipment, tradies can now plug a lightweight attachment into their phone, open an app and begin identifying temperature anomalies in real time.
The result is a portable diagnostic solution that fits naturally into the way modern tradies already work.
The range includes multiple connection types:
- TC01C for USB-C devices
- TC01A for Android USB-C phones
- TC01B for Lightning-based iPhones
This compatibility allows the devices to integrate easily across most on-site setups.
Tammy said the portability also changes how thermal imaging can be used in front of customers.
“It’s amazing especially if you’re with a client or homeowner,” she said.
“You can offer a service that’s traditionally been difficult because of the size and cost of thermal imaging equipment.”
“Plus, because it’s connected to your phone, you can send reports almost immediately, which makes things really efficient.”
iSee expands beyond sparkies
While electricians are a natural fit for thermal imaging, the iSee range is finding traction well beyond the electrical trade.
According to Fluke, one of the biggest advantages of the platform is its accessibility.
“You don’t need specialised training to get value from it — you’re simply reading heat differences,” Fluke Sr Marketing Manager Ben Browning said.
“Builders can spot insulation gaps, plasterers can identify moisture issues, and HVAC or maintenance trades can quickly check for leaks or heat loss.”
Tradie Jared Leiner said the TC01C quickly became a tool he now regularly reaches for on site.
“I’d use this to detect water leaks, box gutter leaks or missing insulation batts — especially when people have been moving things around in the roof and you can’t tell what’s been disturbed,” he said.
“We’d also use it for underfloor heating and bathroom leaks — you can find them all with this.”
Despite its compact size, the device delivers up to a 550°C temperature range, 256×192 resolution and a 25Hz refresh rate — providing enough clarity for accurate fault finding on site.
“It’s very easy to see if there are any faults — everything it shows you is very detailed,” Jared said.
“For us, it’s a proactive approach. You’re finding issues before they turn into something bigger — ideally before the homeowner even knows there’s a problem.”
In leak detection scenarios, that visibility can save significant time and unnecessary damage.
“With box gutters, you often don’t find the issue until it’s already coming through the ceiling,” he said. “This shows you exactly where it’s coming from, so you’re not cutting holes in the wrong places.”
Building the next generation
The accessibility of tools like the iSee reflects a broader focus from Fluke — making professional-grade diagnostic tools more approachable across every level of the industry, from experienced tradies through to apprentices and training institutions.
Supporting apprentices remains a key focus as Australia continues facing ongoing trade skills shortages.
“Apprentices are the future of the industry, especially with the skills shortage we’re seeing across trades in Australia,” Ben said.
“There’s a growing need to bring more people into the industry and make sure they’re set up properly from day one.”
Fluke said early exposure to professional-grade tools helps shape long-term habits around safety, accuracy and confidence on site.
“At the end of the day, it’s about making sure people go home safely, and that’s something Fluke has always been built around,” Ben said. Tammy was one of those apprentices who first experienced Fluke tools early in her career.
“It’s really great that apprentices can access quality equipment early on,” she said.
Apprenticeship support programs
Fluke currently supports apprentices and training organisations through:
- 25 per cent discount on one tool or kit annually
- Product donations to training institutions
- Sponsorship of apprentice award nights
Beyond thermal imaging
While the iSee range is one of Fluke’s latest mobile-focused innovations, the company’s broader ecosystem of test and measurement tools continues expanding across multiple specialist fields.
1670 Series multifunction installation testers
Designed to streamline installation testing, the Fluke 1670 Series improves workflow speed while simplifying reporting and compliance documentation.
The system supports compliance with IEC 60364 and AS 3000 standards while helping reduce administrative workload on site.
GFL-1500 Solar Ground Fault Locator
The Fluke GFL-1500 is designed for solar PV diagnostics, helping technicians trace and locate ground faults across large arrays more efficiently.
By sending a signal through the system, the tool reduces the need for time-consuming manual fault testing.
FEV350 EV Charging Station Analyser
The FEV350 allows electricians to test EV charging infrastructure, including:
- Voltage and load performance
- Protective earth continuity
- RCD operation
- Functional safety checks
This consolidates multiple tests into a single portable device.
Looking ahead
Fluke is expected to continue expanding its mobile-first diagnostics ecosystem throughout 2026, with future developments focused on smartphone-integrated tools and streamlined field testing solutions.
The broader goal remains simple: make advanced diagnostics faster, easier and more practical for tradies on site.
As digital integration continues across the industry, tools like the iSee range reflect a wider shift in how diagnostics are performed — moving away from bulky standalone equipment and towards tools that integrate into devices tradies already carry every day.
As Tammy puts it:
“This time, you’re allowed to be on your phone for the right reasons.”
