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From mercury to alcohol
In the beginning of the 1960’s, the medical field switched from using mercury in their thermometers to alcohol due to the fact that it was a much safer option. Although the accuracy was the same, people were dying from mercury poisoning, in turn making the field switch. Why does thermometer mercury sometimes look red? (n.d.). Why Does Thermometer Mercury Sometimes Look Red? Retrieved from http://www.youaskandy.com/questions-answers/29-ask-andy-1960/12899-why-does-thermometer-mercury-sometimes-l -
First infrared thermometer
Invented in 1980, the company “Williamson” invents the first attempt at an infrared thermometer. This being more accurate then the common thermometer before, yet not nearly as advanced as the modern ones. This being a major step in the history of thermometers due to the fact of not having to wait as long as the mercury or alcohol ones. Williamson in the 1980s. (n.d.). Williamson in the 1980s. Retrieved from http://www.williamsonir.com/content11205 -
Forehead strip thermometer
Created in the early 1990’s, this is a small plastic strip with crystals imbedded in it. The liquid crystals react to the temperature of the skin, and depending on the brand, change color. The color corresponds with a number strip to show the temperature. This was a breakthrough because it used the body heat instead of the core heat to give a readout. Elliott, T., & D., L. (n.d.). WiseGeek. Retrieved from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-forehead-thermometer.htm -
Temple Touch Thermometer
This was invented in 1997. This gives accurate readings and uses R.A.T.E technology. It is non-invasive, easy to use asleep or awake. The memory recalls previous temperature readings for comparison. Also gives an audible beep when done reading. Unlike the one before it, this gives a digital readout of the temperature. Instant Read Digital Temple Thermometer. (n.d.). AllegroMedical.com. Retrieved from http://www.allegromedical.com/diagnostic-products-c521/instant-read-digital-temple-thermometer -
Infrared Scanning thermometer
Invented in 2003, this temperature-taking scanner can scan people or liquids. Wide range of temperatures up to boiling point. Memory recall with the ability to switch from C to F and vise versa. Unlike its ancestors, it does not need physical contact. RediScan Infrared Thermometer with Digital Readout. (n.d.). AllegroMedical.com. Retrieved from http://www.allegromedical.com/diagnostic-products-c521/rediscan-infrared-thermometer-w-digital-readout-p558654.html -
Infrared gun thermometer
Created in May 2011, An infrarred thermometer gun used for cooking measurers temperatures using a beam of concentrated inferred light. Used to find a temperature from a safe distance. Like the last one, does not need physical contact and is able to measure from a farther distance. 15 High-Tech Cooking Tools for BBQ Season. (n.d.). PCMAG. Retrieved from http://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/264785/15-high-tech-cooking-tools-for-bbq-season/2
