Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless)

Packaging
 
The packaging for the Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless) is done in the usual Scythe style with every square inch of available space crammed full of the product’s specifications and features. However, the packaging does feel quite lightweight in terms of providing protection to the Kama Thermo (Wireless) contained within. I wouldn’t count on it protecting the unit from any decent impact.
 
Packaging front Packaging rear
Packaging contents
 
Included in the packaging were the following:
 
 
* Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless)
* Instruction manual
* USB to mini-USB cable
* Black cloth patch
 
For those of you wondering about the black cloth; it’s been included to make accurate temperature readings from shiny or relective materials. Simply attach the cloth to the shiny/reflective surface you want to measure and aim the Kama Thermo (Wireless) at the patch – voila!
 
A Closer Look
 
The Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless) is so far removed from the original Kama Thermo that it isn’t funny. The only similarity between the two is that they both display temperature. However, the Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless) is certainly a ‘classier’ looking beast in my opinion.
 
 
Kama Thermo Wireless upright Kama Thermo battery compartment
Mini USB power
 
The differences between the two units really become obvious. The riginal Scythe Kama Thermo has a slightly larger LCD screen which makes reading the temperature easier, especially for those who may struggle to read smaller characters.
 
Size-wise the Kama Therrmo (Wireless) dwarfs the original as it is designed for stand-alone operation and subsequently a little more comfort when holding it in your hand.
 
You will notice that the Kama Thermo (Wireless) also lacks the locking tabs which are present on the original Kama Thermo. The locking tabs meant that the Kama Thermo could be modded into a drivebay cover or stuck onto the side of your chassis and the thermal probe used to monitor a variety of temperatures.
 
New and old Kama Thermo comparison_1 New and old Kama Thermo comparison_2
New and old Kama Thermo comparison_3
 
The Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless) is able to measure temperatures between 0 – 100 degrees Celcius/32 – 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Should the object/substance you wish to measure go above or below the spcified range, the unit will return a ‘Lo’ or ‘Hi’ warning on the screen. The Scythe Kama (Wireless) cannot be used to measure air or any other gaseous temperature.
 
Low temp warning High temp warning
 
Operation of the Scythe Kama (Wireless) is dead easy. Simply point the IR receiver at the object you wish to measure and push the button once. Scythe suggest that you get as close to the object as possible to ensure the best possible reading.
 
Blue backlight
 
With the USB cable inserted into the bottom end of the Scythe Kama Thermo (Wireless) battery consumption is turned off and the blue backlight gives off a pleasant glow. I found the LCD screen a lot easier to read with the backlight on. One thing that warrants a mention here too is that the included USB cable is quite short, almost annoyingly so in fact. The short length means you really are quite restricted as to how far you can move away from your PC with the cable inserted. Scythe could perhaps look at lengthening the cable a little to make it more user friendly.