
Which IPLEX videoscope to choose: One, NX, GX/GT, GAir or TX II
Olympus IPLEX comparison: when you need IPLEX One, NX, GX/GT, long-reach GAir or ultra-thin TX II
Remote visual inspection without model confusion
The IPLEX range covers one task — looking where the eye and a phone camera cannot reach: turbines, heat exchangers, pipework, narrow cavities, castings. The difference between models lies in probe diameter and length, measurement capability, ergonomics and whether you are building one platform or buying a narrow-purpose tool.
Below is a practical guide for power, oil and gas, aviation MRO and NDT contractors.
Quick matrix
| Scenario | Model |
|---|---|
| A new single RVI platform for years ahead | IPLEX One |
| High image quality plus 3D measurement (the classic) | IPLEX NX |
| Price/feature balance, interchangeable probes | IPLEX GX/GT |
| Compact rounds and routine visual checks | IPLEX G Lite |
| Long tubes / heat exchangers of 20–30 m | IPLEX GAir |
| Very narrow access of 1.8–2.2 mm | IPLEX TX II |
IPLEX One — a platform, not "one more videoscope"
The IPLEX One is the 10th generation: common hardware, Plus / Expert / Prime tiers through software, Swoptix (switching near/far and direct/side without changing the tip), 3DAssist, a ~10″ screen and ViSOL integration.
Choose it if:
- you want to standardise the RVI fleet on one platform;
- speed of inspecting turbines and cavities and measurement without swapping tips matter;
- you plan a digital reporting workflow.
Not essential immediately if you only need occasional inspection of short cavities — it is cheaper to start with the G Lite / GX.
IPLEX NX — the proven imaging flagship
The IPLEX NX remains a strong choice where image quality, stereo/3D measurement and a familiar interface are critical. Typical probe lengths start at a few metres, with diameters around 4–8 mm depending on configuration.
It suits turbines, combustors and complex internal volumes where "seeing the defect" matters more than the length of the run.
IPLEX GX/GT — the working middle ground
The IPLEX GX/GT balances brightness, interchangeable probes and cost of ownership. It suits service crews that need a universal videoscope without buying the whole One ecosystem.
G Lite — compact for regular rounds
The G Lite / G Lite W is for frequent inspection with routine tasks: quick visual checks, mobility, less heavyweight metrology.
GAir — when you run out of length
The IPLEX GAir covers 20 m and 30 m with pneumatic articulation. It is not a replacement for an NX/One on a turbine: it is a tool for long pipelines, heat exchangers and long channels.
If the specification says "reach 25 metres", an ordinary IPLEX will not save you without a GAir (or an equivalent reach).
TX II — ultra-thin access
The IPLEX TX II is flexible at ~2.2 mm or rigid at ~1.8 mm. It is needed for small openings, castings and narrow channels where a 4–6 mm probe physically will not pass.
TX II is often used as a scout, with measurement and detail work then done by a 4–6 mm system.
How to state the requirement to a supplier
- Access diameter (mm) and run length (m).
- Whether measurement is needed (scalar / stereo / 3D) or only photos and video.
- The environment: oil, temperature, ATEX / hazardous area, remote control unit.
- One instrument for everything, or a combination (for example TX II + One/NX + GAir).
The model catalogue is in the industrial endoscopes section, and the range overview is on the Olympus page. KEG TRK will help assemble the probe and optical adapter configuration for your site.
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