Dalsa P-2 Series, Pirahna 2 P-2x-xxx40, Pirahna 2 P2-4x-xxx40, Pirahna 2 P2-2x-xxx30 User Manual

P-2x-xxx40, P2-4x-xxx40, P2-2x-xxx30

Line Scan CCD Cameras

29-Mar-06

03-32-00493-11

www.dalsa.com

Camera User’s Manual

Printed 3/29/2006 9:03:00 AM

2 Piranha2 User’s Manual

© 2006 DALSA. All information provided in this manual is believed to be accurate and reliable. No
responsibility is assumed by DALSA for its use. DALSA reserves the right to make changes to this
information without notice. Reproduction of this manual in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited
without prior permission having been obtained from DALSA.

About DALSA

DALSA is an international high performance semiconductor and electronics company that designs,
develops, manufactures, and markets digital imaging products and solutions, in addition to providing
wafer foundry services. DALSA’s core competencies are in specialized integrated circuit and electronics
technology, and highly engineered semiconductor wafer processing. Products include image sensor
components; electronic digital cameras; and semiconductor wafer foundry services for use in MEMS,
power semiconductors, image sensors and mixed signal CMOS chips.

DALSA is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “DSA”. Based in
Waterloo, On. Canada, the company has operations in Bromont, PQ; Colorado Springs, CO; Tucson, AZ;
Eindhoven, NL; Munich, Germany and Tokyo, Japan.

All DALSA products are manufactured using the latest state-of-the-art equipment to ensure product
reliability. All electronic modules and cameras are subjected to a 24 hour burn-in test.

For further information not included in this manual, or for information on DALSA’s extensive line of
image sensing products, please call:

DALSA Sales Offices

Waterloo Europe Asia Pacific

605 McMurray Rd
Waterloo, ON N2V 2E9
Canada
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

Breslauer Str. 34
D-82194 Gröbenzell (Munich)
Germany
Tel: 49 - 8142 – 46770
Fax: 49 - 8142 – 467746
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

Space G1 Building, 4F
2-40-2 Ikebukuro
Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0014
Japan
81 3 5960 6353 (phone)
81 3 5960 6354 (fax)
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

DALSA Worldwide Operations

Waterloo Colorado Springs Europe Asia Pacific

605 McMurray Rd
Waterloo, ON N2V 2E9
Canada
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

Camera Link is a trademark registered by PULNiX America Inc., as chair of a committee of industry
members including DALSA.

4820 Centennial Blvd., Suite 115
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

Breslauer Str. 34
D-82194 Gröbenzell (Munich)
Germany
Tel: 49 - 8142 – 46770
Fax: 49 - 8142 – 467746
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

Ikebukuro East 13F
3-4-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro
Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013
Japan
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone] (fax)
www.dalsa.com
[e-mail]

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3 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Contents

Introduction to the Piranha2 Line Scan Camera __________________________________ 5

1.1 Camera Highlights.......................................................................................................................................................5

1.2 Image Sensors .............................................................................................................................................................7

1.3 Camera Performance Specifications ............................................................................................................................8

Camera Hardware Interface________________________________________________ 13

2.1 Installation Overview...................................................................................................................................................13

2.2 Input/Output................................................................................................................................................................13

2.3 Connectors, Pinouts, and Cables..................................................................................................................................14

2.4 Power Supplies............................................................................................................................................................16

2.5 Control Inputs, Camera Link........................................................................................................................................16

2.6 Data Bus, Camera Link................................................................................................................................................17

2.7 Timing .........................................................................................................................................................................19

2.8 Camera Link Serial Communication............................................................................................................................22

Software Interface: How to Control the Camera __________________________________ 23

3.1 Overview......................................................................................................................................................................23

3.2 Command Format........................................................................................................................................................24

3.3 Processing Chain..........................................................................................................................................................24

3.4 Startup.........................................................................................................................................................................25

3.5 Saving and Restoring Settings.....................................................................................................................................25

3.6 Setting Baud Rate........................................................................................................................................................26

3.7 Setting the Data Mode.................................................................................................................................................26

3.8 Setting the Video Mode ...............................................................................................................................................27

3.9 Setting Line Rate and Exposure Mode.........................................................................................................................27

3.10 Setting a Region of Interest.......................................................................................................................................29

3.11 Returning Video Information ....................................................................................................................................29

3.12 Optimizing Offset Performance.................................................................................................................................31

3.13 Setting Gains .............................................................................................................................................................34

3.14 How to Calibrate the Camera....................................................................................................................................35

3.15 Setting and Reading FPN Coefficients.......................................................................................................................38

3.16 Setting and Reading PRNU Coefficients....................................................................................................................39

3.17 Generating Test Patterns...........................................................................................................................................39

3.18 Monitoring the Camera .............................................................................................................................................40

3.19 Rebooting the Camera...............................................................................................................................................41

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3.20 Setting the Pre-trigger ..............................................................................................................................................41

Optical, Mechanical, and Thermal Considerations_________________________________ 43

4.1 Mechanical Interface....................................................................................................................................................43

4.2 Optical Interface ..........................................................................................................................................................47

4.3 Compliance ..................................................................................................................................................................49

CCD Handling Instructions _________________________________________________ 51

5.1 Electrostatic Discharge and the CCD Sensor ................................................................................................................51

5.2 Protecting Against Dust, Oil and Scratches..................................................................................................................51

5.3 Cleaning the Sensor Window.......................................................................................................................................52

Troubleshooting________________________________________________________ 53

6.1 Common Solutions.......................................................................................................................................................53

6.2 Troubleshooting Using the Serial Interface.................................................................................................................54

6.3 Specific Solutions.........................................................................................................................................................56

6.4 Product Support...........................................................................................................................................................58

Camera Link™ Reference _________________________________________________ 59
EMC Declaration of Conformity______________________________________________ 61
Communications Protocol _________________________________________________ 63

C1 Protocol Overview.........................................................................................................................................................63

C2 Protocol Features..........................................................................................................................................................63

C3 Command Format and Examples .................................................................................................................................63

C4 Networking Mode .........................................................................................................................................................64

C5 Error Handling..............................................................................................................................................................67

C6 Camera Parameter Screen............................................................................................................................................70

C7 Commands....................................................................................................................................................................73

DC Offset De-rating Curve _________________________________________________ 79
Revision History ________________________________________________________ 81
Index _______________________________________________________________ 83

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5 Piranha2 User’s Manual

1

Introduction to the
Piranha2 Line Scan
Camera

1.1 Camera Highlights

Features

• Data rates up to 160MHz

• Resolutions from 1k to 8k for 40MHz model

• Resolutions from 1k to 8k for 30MHz model

• High responsivity

• Exposure control and antiblooming

• Pinned photodiode sensor for low image lag

• Programmable integration time, line rate, gain, offset, bit depth, test pattern, and
diagnostics

• Flat-field correction—minimizes sensor FPN and PRNU, lens vignetting and non­uniform lighting

• Camera Link™ interface

• Single 12V to 15V power supply

• Compact design

Performance

• 4x40MHz quad output data rate, 2x40MHz dual output data rate with 40MHz model

• 2x30MHz dual output data rate with 30MHz model

• 8 or 10-bit output from 10-bit digitization

• 1024, 2048, and 4096 pixels, 10µm x 10µm, and 4096, 6144 and 8192 pixels, 7µm x 7µm,
100% fill factor

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6 Piranha2 User’s Manual

• Line rates up to 65kHz

Programmability

• Simple ASCII protocol controls gain, offset, line rates, trigger mode, pixel correction,
test pattern output, and camera diagnostics.

• Serial interface (ASCII, 9600 baud, adjustable to 19200, 57600, 115200), through
Camera Link.

Usability

• Programmable gains, offsets, and camera controls

• End-of-line sequence and test pattern output for debugging

• Single input supply (+12V to +15V)

• Compliant with CE and MIL-STD-810E (shock and vibration)

Description

Piranha2 takes performance to a new level. Two and four 8 or 10-bit outputs (selectable)
at up to 40MHz deliver up to 160MHz throughput.

Available in 1k to 8k resolutions, Piranha2 is small, light, and uses a single voltage power
supply. Cabling and interface are simplified with the Camera Link high-speed serial
standard. The camera is sensitive, but still provides quiet, uniform output thanks to CDS
(correlated double sampling) and embedded flat-field correction algorithms. Gain and
offset are fully programmable for each output channel, and the camera can output test
patterns for cable/system troubleshooting. All resolutions provide appropriate, readily­available standard lens options (C-mount, F-mount, and M72x0.75 large format
photography standards).

All these features combine to make Piranha2 the most powerful line scan camera in the
world. Set it loose on your toughest imaging challenge.

Applications

The Piranha2 is ideal for applications requiring high speed, superior image quality, and
high responsivity.

Applications include:

• Electronics manufacturing inspection

• Postal/parcel sorting

• High performance document scanning/image lift

• Narrow and large web inspection

• High-end industrial inspection

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7 Piranha2 User’s Manual

,

1.2 Image Sensors

The image sensor used in your camera depends on the camera’s resolution and number of
taps.

1k, 2k, 4k (10 µm), 2 taps: IL-P1 (Figure 1)

2k, 4k (10 µm), 4 taps: IT-P1 (Figure 2)

4k (7 µm), 6k, 8k, 2 taps: IL-P4 (Figure 3)

4k (7 µm), 6k, 8k, 4 taps: IT-P4 (Figure 4)

Figure 1: IL-P1 Image Sensor (1k, 2k, 4k (10 µm), 2 tap models)

CR 1S, CR2S

CR1B, CR2B, CRLAST

5 I

S tor age Wel l w ith Exposure Control and Reset Struct ure

N Pinned Photodiodes (10µm x 10µm)4 I32 S 4 I 32 S

S tor age Wel l w ith Exposure Control and Reset Struct ure

5 I

VSET

VDD

OS1

Relative position of package Pin 1

1

VO D

VS S

OS2

VBB

RS T

Figure 2: IT-P1 4k Image Sensor (2k, 4k (10 µm), 4 tap models)

CCD Rea d o u t Sh i ft R egister

CCD Rea d o u t Sh i ft R egister

CR 1S, CR2S,

CR1B, CR2B, CRLAST

32 S

Light-shielded pixel s

4 I

Isolation p ixels

N = 1024 or 2048

4 I

TCK

VSTOR

PR

VPR

4 I

Relative position

1

of package Pin 1

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N=2048 or 4096

8 Piranha2 User’s Manual

T

,

,

Figure 3: IL-P4 Image Sensor (4k (7µm), 6k, and 8k, 2 tap models)

CR 1, CR2, CRLAS

CCD Read o u t Sh i ft R egis ter

N Pinned Photodiodes (7µm x 7µm)4 I32 S 4 I 32 S

CCD Read o u t Sh i ft R egis ter

VDD

OS1

Relativ e position o f pac kage Pin 1

1

VO D

VSS

OS2

RS T

5 I

Stor age Wel l w ith Exposure Co nt ro l and Reset Str uct ur e

Stor age Wel l w ith Exposure Co nt ro l and Reset Str uct ur e

5 I

VBB

VSET

Figure 4. IT-P4 Image Sensor (4k (7µm), 6k, and 8k, 4 tap models)

CR1, CR2
CRLA ST- L

CCD Readout Shift Regis ter

N Pinned Photodiodes (7µm x 7µm )4 I32 S 4 I 32 S

CCD Readout Shift Regis ter

32 S

Li ght -shi elded pix els
Isolation pixels

4 I

N = 4096, 6144 or 8192

VDD

OS2

5 I

S tor age Well wit h Exposure Cont rol and Reset Str ucture

S tor age Well wit h Exposure Cont rol and Reset Str ucture

5 I

CR1, CR2 ,
CR LAST- L

CR 1, CR 2, CRLAST

CR1, CR2
CRLAS T-R

CR1, CR2 ,
CRLAS T-R

32 S

Light-shielded pixels

4 I

Isolation pixels

N = 4096, 6144 or 8 192

5 I

TCK
VSTOR

PR

VPR

5 I

4 I

4 I

VPR

OS4

TCK

VS TOR

PR

VDD

OS1

R e la ti ve position

1

of package Pin 1

1.3 Camera Performance Specifications

The following two tables list the camera’s performance specifications. The first table lists
the operating ranges of the camera, and the second table lists the performance
specifications at minimum, nominal and maximum gain levels at 1kHz data rate. Note
that as gain levels increase, performance decreases, because your signal to noise
decreases.

Also note that the cameras performance specifications were obtained using a line rate of
only 1kHz. At low line rates, dark current can become a significant source of noise and
appears in specifications such as FPN, PRNU and noise. If you operate the camera at
faster line rates, such as 10kHz or greater, the amount of dark current will be reduced by
10x or greater.

03-32-00493-11 DALSA

VSS- L

VO D-L

RS T- L

VB B

VSET-L

VS E T -R

VBB

RS T- R

VO D-R

OS3

VSS-R

9 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Table 1. Piranha2 Operating Requirements and Ranges

Operating Requirements Units Typical Notes

Power

1024—2 o/p W 6

2048—2 /4 o/p W 6 / 8.5

4096 (7µm)—2 / 4 o/p W 6 / 8.5

4096 (10µm)—2 o/p W 9

4096 (10µm)—4 o/p W 11

6144—2 / 4 o/p W 7 / 9.5

8192 —2 / 4 o/p W 7.5 / 10

Power Supply Current (Vin = +12V)

1024—2 o/p mA 480

2048—2 /4 o/p mA 500 / 700

4096—2 / 4 o/p mA 500 / 690

4096 (10µm)—2 o/p mA 750

4096 (10µm)—4 o/p mA 900

6144—2 / 4 o/p mA 650 / 850

8192 —2 / 4 o/p mA 680 / 900

Time to power up, typ sec. 15

Time to calibrate (FPN/PRNU)

1024 sec. 10

2048 sec. 19

4096 sec. 38

6144 sec. 85

8192 sec. 115

Specification Units Min Max

Notes

40 MHz

Data Rate, per tap (40 MHz model) MHz 40 40

(30 MHz model) MHz 30 30 1

Specification Units Min Max

30 MHz

Max
40

MHz

Line Rate

1024, 2 o/p kHz 1 49.6 65.3 1

2048, 2 o/p kHz 1 27 35.4 1

2048, 4 o/p kHz 1 68 1

4096, 2 o/p kHz 1 14 18.5 1

4096, 4 o/p kHz 1 36.2

6144, 2 o/p kHz 1 12.3

6144, 4 o/p kHz 1 24.4

8192, 2 o/p kHz 1 7.15 9.3

8192, 4 o/p kHz 1 18.6

Temperature

Front plate Temperature °C 10 50 2

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10 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Specification Units Min Max

Notes

40 MHz

Temperature drift before
recalibration,
(recommendation)

Sensor Alignment

x,y um ±175

z mm ±0.25

θz

°C 10

° ±0.6

Note that the environment conditions represent the state of the environment when the
camera was being tested. Typical results are the average values obtained with at a 1kHz
line rate and 30°C. Maximum results represent the worst case results from any camera
operating at 50°C with a 1kHz line rate.

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11 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Table 2. Pirahna2 Performance Specifications, 1kHz line rate, 40MHz Model

Min. Gain Nom. Gain Max. Gain

Environment Conditions

Data Rate (40MHz model) MHz 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40

Line Rate kHz 1 1 1 1 1 1

Gain Setting dB -10 -10 -10 0 0 0 +10 +10 +10

Front Plate Temperature °C 30 50 30 50 30 50 3

Electro-Optic Specifications

Broadband Responsivity, 7um pixels DN/(nJ/cm2) 3 3.4 3.8 9.4 10.7 12 30 34 38

Broadband Responsivity, 10um pixels DN/(nJ/cm2) 6 6.8 7.6 18.8 21.4 24 60 68 76

Dynamic Range Ratio 496:1 207:1 390:1 62:1 135:1

Pk-Pk Noise, max DN 2 3 4 8 15 32 4

RMS Noise, max DN 0.5 0.5 0.75 1.2 2.2 4 4

FPN uncorrected, max 4K and under DN 1.1 4 3.5 8 8 27 5

FPN uncorrected, max 6K and over DN 1.6 4 4 8 14 27 5

FPN corrected, max DN 0.3 2 1 2 2 8 2

PRNU uncorrected

1K and 2K, ECD/ECE DN 5 18 5 23 8/10 39

4k, ECD/ECE DN 9 28 10 28 12/20 43

Units

Units

Min

Min

Typ

Typ

Max

Max

Min

Min

Typ

Typ

Max

Max

Min

Min

Typ

Typ

Max

Max

Notes

Notes

6K and 8K, ECD/ECE DN 15 38 16 38 14/27 55

PRNU corrected ECD/ECE DN 1.5

DC Offset DN

4k and under 2 3 5 5 7 17 6

6k and over 2 3 5 5 14 17 6

3 / 3 1.2/

/ 2

1.5 3/8

2/3.5 5/

27

Notes:

DN = Digital Numbers (0-255); also known as gray levels.
ECE = Exposure Control Enabled
ECD = Exposure Control Disabled

• All measurements taken in 8-bit output mode.

• All measurements are valid for front plate temperatures in still air.

• All measurements used a Tungsten halogen light source, 3200K bulb temp., and
750nm cutoff filter

1. All specifications for the 30MHz model are preliminary.

2 Due to FPN/PRNU correction calculations, certain digital numbers will be

unavailable when outputting 10 bits with FPN/PRNU correction.

3 Measured at front plate. The corresponding ambient temperature range with still air

is 0°C - 37°C.

4 Measurements taken at maximum line rates.

2

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12 Piranha2 User’s Manual

5 Exposure control enabled to set the maximum integration time to 200 microseconds.

6. Refer to Appendix D for DC Offset de-rating curves.

Figure 5: P2 Responsivity

Respon sivity, Nominal Gain

]

)

2

24

m

c

/

20

J

n

(

/

16

N

D

[
y

12

t

i

v

i

s

8

n

o

p

4

s

e
R

0

10µm pixels

7µm pixels

800600400 500 700 900

1000

Wavelength (nm)

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13 Piranha2 User’s Manual

2

Camera Hardware
Inter face

2.1 Installation Overview

In order to set up your camera, you should take these steps:

1. Connect Camera Link™ cables from camera to framegrabber.

2. Connect power.

You must also set up the other components of your system, including light sources, frame
grabbers, camera mounts, heat sinks, host computers, optics, encoders, and so on.

2.2 Input/Output

Camera Link™ (2 and 4 T a p models)

Camera Link™ (4Ta p model only)

Diagnostic LED (See section 3.18)

+12V to +15V and Ground

WARNING: It is extremely important that you apply the appropriate voltages to your

!

03-32-00493-11 DALSA

camera. Incorrect voltages will damage the camera. See section 2.4 for more details.

14 Piranha2 User’s Manual

2.3 Connectors, Pinouts, and Cables

The camera uses a high-density 26-pin MDR26 connector for Camera Link control signals,
data signals, and serial communications, and a 6-pin Hirose connector for power.

13

MDR26 Female

1

Base, Medium, and Full Configuration

26

Mating Part

Cable:

: 3M 334-31 series

3M 14 X 26- SZL B- X XX -0LC

14

**

Table 3: Camera Link Medium and Full Configuration

Medium and Full Configurations
Up to an additional 2 Channel Link Chips

Camera
Connector

Right Angle
Frame

Channel
Link Signal

Cable Name

Grabber

1 1 inner shield Inner Shield

14 14 inner shield Inner Shield

2 25 Y0- PAIR1-

15 12 Y0+ PAIR1+

3 24 Y1- PAIR2-

16 11 Y1+ PAIR2+

4 23 Y2- PAIR3-

17 10 Y2+ PAIR3+

5 22 Yclk- PAIR4-

18 9 Yclk+ PAIR4+

6 21 Y3- PAIR5-

19 8 Y3+ PAIR5+

7 20 100 ohm PAIR6+

20 7 terminated PAIR6-

8 19 Z0- PAIR7-

21 6 Z0+ PAIR7+

9 18 Z1- PAIR8-

22 5 Z1+ PAIR8+

10 17 Z2- PAIR9+

23 4 Z2+ PAIR9-

11 16 Zclk- PAIR10-

24 3 Zclk+ PAIR10+

Medium and Full Configuration Only

12 15 Z3- PAIR11+

25 2 Z3+ PAIR11-

13 13 inner shield Inner Shield
26 26 inner shield Inner Shield

*Exterior Overshield is connected to the shells of the connectors on both ends.
**3M part 14X26-SZLB-XXX-0LC is a complete cable assembly, including connectors.

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15 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Table 4: Camera Link Base Configuration

Base Configuration
One Channel Link Chip + Camera Control +Serial
Communication

Camera Connector Right Angle

Frame Grabber

1 1 inner shield

14 14 inner shield

2 25 X0-

15 12 X0+

3 24 X1-

16 11 X1+

4 23 X2-

17 10 X2+

5 22 Xclk-

18 9 Xclk+

6 21 X3-

19 8 X3+

7 20 SerTC+

20 7 SerTC-

8 19 SerTFG-

21 6 SerTFG+

9 18 CC1-

22 5 CC1+

10 17 CC2+

23 4 CC2-

11 16 CC3-

24 3 CC3+

Channel Link
Signal

12 15 CC4+

25 2 CC4-

13 13 inner shield

26 26 inner shield

Unused pairs should be terminated in 100 ohms at both ends of the cable.

Table 5: DALSA Camera Control Configuration

Signal Configuration Pin

CC1 EXSYNC 9, 22

CC2 PRIN 10, 23

CC3 Spare 11, 24

CC4 Spare 12, 25

See Appendix B for the complete DALSA Camera Link configuration table, and refer to
the DALSA Web site, vfm.dalsa.com, for the official Camera Link documents.

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16 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Hirose 6-pin Circul ar Male

1

2

3

Mating Part: HIROSE

HR10A-7P-6S

Pin Description Pin Description

1 +12V to +15V 4 GND

2 +12V to +15V 5 GND

3 +12V to +15V 6 GND

6

5

4

2.4 Power Supplies

The camera requires a single voltage input (+12V to +15V). The camera meets all
performance specifications using standard switching power supplies, although well­regulated linear supplies provide optimum performance. See the Performance
Specifications for current requirements.

When setting up the camera’s power supplies follow these guidelines:

• Protect the camera with a fast-blow fuse between power supply and camera.

• Do not use the shield on a multi-conductor cable for ground.

• Keep leads as short as possible to reduce voltage drop.

See section 1.3 for power requirements.

WARNING: It is extremely important that you apply the appropriate voltages to your camera.

!

Incorrect voltages will damage the camera. Protect the camera with a fast-blow fuse between
power supply and camera.

Visit http://vfm.dalsa.com for a list of companies that make power supplies that meet
the camera’s requirements. The companies listed should not be considered the only
choices. Many high quality supplies are available from other vendors. DALSA assumes
no responsibility for the use of these supplies.

2.5 Control Inputs, Camera Link

The camera accepts control inputs through the Camera Link MDR26F connector. All inputs

are optional. The camera ships in exposure mode 1 (maximum line rate and exposure time). All
Camera Control (CCx) signals are in a logic HIGH state.

the serial interface. Power-on rate is always 9600 baud. Data rate for the 40MHz model is
always 40MHz. Data rate for the 30MHz model is always 30MHz.

The external control signals, EXSYNC and PRIN, are optional and enabled through the
serial interface.

PRIN

Line rate can be set internally using

PRIN is an optional input signal used for exposure control (PRIN).

PRIN Indicates

High Integration

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17 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Low Pixel reset

IMPORTANT:
This camera uses the
falling edge of EXSYNC
to trigger line readout,
unlike previous DALSA
cameras, which used the
rising edge.

EXSYNC (Triggers Line Readout)

EXSYNC is an optional input signal that can be used to trigger the line readout rate. This
camera uses the

Note: EXSYNC should not be clocked faster than the camera’s specified maximum line

rate. The camera ignores the EXSYNC pulse until it has completed reading the last line
out.

falling edge of EXSYNC to trigger line readout.

2.6 Data Bus, Camera Link

These signals indicate when data is valid, allowing you to clock the data from the camera
to your acquisition system. These signals are part of the Camera Link configuration and
you should refer to the DALSA Camera Link Implementation Road Map, available at
vfm.dalsa.com, for the standard location of these signals:

Clocking Signal Indicates

LVAL (high) Outputting valid line
DVAL (high) Valid data
STROBE (rising edge) Valid data

IMPORTANT: This camera’s data should be sampled on the rising edge of STROBE.

Digital Data

The camera digitizes internally to 10 bits and outputs either all 10 bits or the most
significant 8 bits in LVDS format on the Camera Link connector.

Note: Due to flat-field correction calculations, certain digital numbers will be unavailable

when outputting 10 bits with flat-field correction enabled (i.e. you will experience
missing codes).

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18 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Test Pattern Pixels and End-of-line Sequence

For information
on the test pattern
and end of line
sequence
commands, see
section

3.17

Generating Test

.

Patterns

To facilitate system-level debugging and verification of data path integrity, the camera
can generate a test pattern. The test pattern is a ramp from 0 to 255DN, then starts at 0
again. Use the test pattern to verify the proper timing and connections between the
camera and the frame grabber.

To alleviate post-processing, Piranha2 offers an end-of-line sequence that provides basic
calculations including "line counter", "line average", "pixels above threshold", "pixels
below threshold", and "derivative line sum". These basic calculations are the center of
most automatic gain control (AGC) algorithms.

To further aid in debugging and cable/data path integrity, the first six bits of the output
of the end-of-line sequence are "aa", "55", "aa". Refer to the table below.

Location Value Description

1 A’s

2 5’s

3 A’s

4 4 bit counter LSB justified Counter increments by 1. Use this value to

5 Line sum LSB

6 Line sum MID

7 Line sum MSB

By ensuring these values consistently toggle
between "aa" and "55", you can verify cabling
(i.e. no stuck bits)

verify that every line is output

Use these values to help calculate line
average

8 0

9 Pixels above threshold LSB

10 Pixels above threshold

MSB

11 Pixels below threshold LSB

12 Pixels below threshold

MSB

13 Derivative line sum LSB

14 Derivative line sum Mid

15 Derivative line sum MSB

16 0

Monitor these values (either above or below
threshold) and adjust camera gain to keep
these values relatively constant. This
provides a basis for automatic gain control
(AGC)

Use these values to focus the camera.
Generally, the greater the sum the greater the
image contrast

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2.7 Timing

Figure 6. Piranha2 Overview Timing Showing Input and Output Relationships

Figure 7. Piranha2 Fixed (Programmed) Integration Timing with External EXSYNC

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Table 6: Piranha2 40MHz Timing (Fixed Integration Mode)

Symbol Definition Min (ns) Typ

(ns)

twSYNC The minimum low width of the EXSYNC

pulse when not in SMART EXSYNC
mode.

twSYNC

*

(SMART)

The minimum low width of the EXSYNC
pulse when in SMART EXSYNC modes to
guarantee the photosites are reset.

twSYNC_INT The minimum width of the high pulse

when the “SMART EXSYNC” feature is
turned off

twSYNC_INT

(SMART)

*

Is the integration time when the “SMART
EXSYNC” feature is available and turned
on. Note that the minimum time is
necessary to guarantee proper operation.

tLINE PERIOD
(t LP)

The minimum and maximum line times
made up of tTransfer, tREADOUT plus
tOVERHEAD to meet specifications.

tTransfer The time from the reception of the falling

edge of EXSYNC to the rising edge of
LVAL when pretrigger is set to zero.
Pretrigger reduces the number of clocks to
the rising edge of LVAL but doesn’t
change the time to the first valid pixel. If
the fixed integration time mode of
operation is available and selected then
the integration time is added to the
specified value.

twFixed Int. Fixed Integration Time mode of operation

for variable exsync frequency.

tREADOUT Is the number of pixels per tap times the

readout clock period. Pretrigger = 0.

tOVERHEAD Is the number of pixels that must elapse

after the falling edge of LVAL before the
EXSYNC signal can be asserted. This time
is used to clamp the internal analog
electronics

thPR Applies when the PRIN exposure control

feature is enabled . The PRIN signal must
be held a minimum time after the
EXSYNC falling edge to avoid losing the
integrated charge

100

2,000

100

2,000

53,190 (8K4T)

106,382 (8K2T)

40,485 (6K4T)

80,645 (6K2T)
27,624 (4K4T)
54,054 (4K2T)
28,248 (2K2T)
15,313 (1K2T)

1,420 +/-50

800 t

51,200 (8K4T)

102,400 (8K2T)

38,400 (6K4T)
76,800 (6K2T)
25, 600 (4K4T)
51,200 (4K2T)
25,600 (2K2T)
12,800 (1K2T)

540+/-50

0

Max
(ns)

6

10

–

LP

2,000

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Symbol Definition Min (ns) Typ

(ns)

twPR_LOW Minimum Low time to assure complete

2,000 +/- 200

Max
(ns)

photosite reset

tPR_SET The nominal time that the photo sites are

2,000+/-200
integrating. Clock synchronization will
lead to integration time jitter, which is
shown in the specification as +/- values.
The user should command times greater
than these to ensure proper charge
transfer from the photosites. Failure to
meet this requirement may result in
blooming in the Horizontal Shift Register.

*SMART EXSYNC refers to exposure mode 4. Refer to section 3.9 Setting Line Rate and
Exposure Mode for further information on exposure modes.

Table 7: Piranha2 30MHz Timing (Fixed Integration Mode)

Note: All values are preliminary for the Piranha2 30MHz

Symbol Definition Min (ns) Typ

(ns)

twSYNC The minimum low width of the EXSYNC

pulse when not in SMART EXSYNC
mode.

twSYNC

*

(SMART)

The minimum low width of the EXSYNC
pulse when in SMART EXSYNC modes to
guarantee the photosites are reset.

twSYNC_INT The minimum width of the high pulse

when the “SMART EXSYNC” feature is
turned off

twSYNC_INT

(SMART)

*

Is the integration time when the “SMART
EXSYNC” feature is available and turned
on. Note that the minimum time is
necessary to guarantee proper operation.

tLINE PERIOD
(t LP)

The minimum and maximum line times
made up of tTransfer, tREADOUT plus
tOVERHEAD to meet specifications.

tTransfer The time from the reception of the falling

edge of EXSYNC to the rising edge of
LVAL when pretrigger is set to zero.
Pretrigger reduces the number of clocks to
the rising edge of LVAL but doesn’t
change the time to the first valid pixel. If
the fixed integration time mode of
operation is available and selected then
the integration time is added to the
specified value.

twFixed Int. Fixed Integration Time mode of operation

for variable exsync frequency.

132

2,640

132

2,000

140487 (8K2T)

70,170 (4K2T)

36,378 (2K2T)

19,483 (1K2T)

1,874 +/-66

800 t

Max
(ns)

6

10

–

LP

2,000

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Symbol Definition Min (ns) Typ

(ns)

tREADOUT Is the number of pixels per tap times the

readout clock period. Pretrigger = 0.

tOVERHEAD Is the number of pixels that must elapse

after the falling edge of LVAL before the
EXSYNC signal can be asserted. This time
is used to clamp the internal analog
electronics

thPR Applies when the PRIN exposure control

feature is enabled . The PRIN signal must
be held a minimum time after the
EXSYNC falling edge to avoid losing the
integrated charge

twPR_LOW Minimum Low time to assure complete

photosite reset

tPR_SET The nominal time that the photo sites are

integrating. Clock synchronization will
lead to integration time jitter, which is
shown in the specification as +/- values.
The user should command times greater
than these to ensure proper charge
transfer from the photosites. Failure to
meet this requirement may result in
blooming in the Horizontal Shift Register.

138033 (8K2T)

33, 792 (4K4T)

67,584 (4K2T)

33,792 (2K2T)

16,896 (1K2T)

712+/-66

0

2,640 +/- 264

2,640+/-264

Max
(ns)

2.8 Camera Link Serial Communication

Camera features can be controlled through the Camera Link™ serial communication
(LVDS, 9600 baud). The serial interface uses simple ASCII-based protocol. The following
chapter describes how to configure the camera using the serial interface.

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3

Software Inter face:
How to Control the
Camera

3.1 Overview

All camera features can be controlled through the serial interface. The camera can also be

i

This chapter details the
most commonly used
commands. See
Appendix C for the
complete syntax and
command reference for
the camera’s serial
interface.

used without the serial interface after it has been set up correctly. Functions available
include:

• Controlling basic camera functions such as gain and sync signal source

• Camera calibration

• Measuring internal temperature and voltages

• Capturing video

• Generating a test pattern for debugging

The serial interface uses a simple ASCII-based protocol. The complete protocol is
described in Appendix C, Communications Protocol.

Online Help

For quick help, the camera can return all available commands and parameters through
the serial interface. To generate this list, send the command

Retrieving Camera Settings

To read current camera settings, send the command gcp. For an explanation of the
camera parameter screen, see section C6 Camera Parameter Screen on page 70.

h to the camera.

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3.2 Command Format

• A carriage return (CR) ends each command.

• Values in square brackets are optional.

• There are two methods for entering the commands: In long form each command is
written in its entirety. In short form, only a predefined abbreviation is required. The
manual uses the short form.

• The camera will answer each command with either "OK >" or "Error x: Error Message
>". The ">" is always the last character sent by the camera.

• The following parameters are used in the manual:

i = integer
f = float
s = string
t = tap
x1, x2 = pixel start and stop values

3.3 Processing Chain

The figure below is a simplified block diagram of the camera's processing chain. The
analog processing chain contains two elements–a gain stage and an offset stage. The
digital processing chain contains the FPN correction, PRNU correction, background
subtract, and a system gain stage. The software commands allow you to set and change
all the elements of the processing chain. This enables maximum processing flexibility
depending on your requirements.

Digital Processing

In addition, the two elements of the analog processing chain, analog gain and analog
offset, can be adjusted to separate values in the calibrated and uncalibrated modes. For
example, the analog gain value can be set to –5db in calibrated mode and 6dB in
uncalibrated mode. When switching between calibrated and uncalibrated modes, the
camera automatically uses the corresponding value.

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3.4 Startup

When the camera is first started, it must perform several actions before it is ready for
imaging. This startup routine takes approximately 15 seconds, and follows this sequence:

1. Initializes the camera and all internal hardware.

2. Loads the last settings saved to non-volatile memory, including the last set of video

correction coefficients, if previously saved.

3. Restores user settings if previously saved, otherwise factory settings.

4. Performs a memory test and voltage test and reports an error if any occurred.

After this startup sequence is complete, the camera will return either the prompt "OK>" if
no error occurred, or an error code if a problem has been discovered.

3.5 Saving and Restoring Settings

The camera provides a number of commands for restoring, storing, and saving settings.

 To restore the original factory settings, use the command

coefficients are reset to 0.

 To save all current settings to EEROM, use the command

automatically restore the saved user settings when powered up.
are being written to nonvolatile memory, do not power down camera or camera
memory may be corrupted.

• To save all current pixel coefficients to EEROM, use the command

• To restore the last saved user settings and the FPN and PRNU coefficients, use the

command

rus.

Factory Settings

Current
Session

User Settings /

EEROM

write / restore restore

rfs. The FPN and PRNU

wus. The camera will

Note: While settings

wpc.

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3.6 Setting Baud Rate

To set the speed of the camera serial communication port, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Baud rate. Available baud rates are: 9600 (Default), 19200, 57600,

Notes:

Example:

sbr i
i

and 115200.

• Power-on rate is always 9600 baud.

• The rc (reset camera) command will not reset the camera to the

power-on baud rate.

sbr 57600

3.7 Setting the Data Mode

To select the camera output mode, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

See Table 8: Mode Selection Values below for allowable parameter

Notes: To obtain the current data mode, use the command gcp.

Example:

sdm i
i

values.

sdm 0

In the table below, ports A-F refer to ports in the Camera Link specification.

Table 8: Mode Selection Values

Mode Description

0 8-bit, using A/B/C/D ports for single processor configuration

1 10-bit, using A/B/C and D/E/F for single processor configuration

2 8-bit using ports A/B and D/E for dual processor configuration

3 10-bit, using A/B/C and D/E/F for dual processor configuration

To obtain the current data mode, use the command gcp.

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3.8 Setting the Video Mode

The video mode sets whether the camera is running in calibrated or uncalibrated mode,
or if it is generating a test pattern.

To set the video mode, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Video mode to use. Allowable values are:

Notes: To obtain the current video mode, use the command gcp.

svm i
i

0 Uncalibrated video, deactivated video correction
1 Calibrated video, activated video correction
2 Test pattern right

3.9 Setting Line Rate and Exposure Mode

The camera’s line rate (synchronization) is generated internally or input from a frame
grabber/host system. With six different exposure mode settings, the Piranha2 delivers
many possibilities for flexible camera timing. Table 9 outlines each of these six exposure
modes, and is followed by a full explanation on how to set the camera’s frame rate and
exposure time.

Table 9: Piranha2 Exposure Modes

Programmable Line Rate Programmable Exposure Time

Mode SYNC PRIN Description

1 Internal Internal No No Maximum line rate and exposure time

(factory setting)

2 Internal Internal Yes Yes Exposure control OFF until a set

command is sent

3 External Internal No No Maximum exposure time

4 External Internal No No Smart EXSYNC

5 External External No No

6 External Internal No Yes Fixed integration time

To obtain the current value of the exposure mode, use the command gcp.

When setting the camera to external signal modes, EXSYNC and/or PRIN must be
supplied.

Overview: Setting Line Rate and Exposure Time

The camera’s line rate (synchronization) can be generated internally through software
commands or input externally from a frame grabber/host system. To select how you
want the camera’s line rate to be generated:

1. You must first set the camera mode using the

Exposure Mode on the following page for details.

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sem command. Refer to Setting the

28 Piranha2 User’s Manual

2. Then, when applicable, use the commands ssf (mode 2 only) to set the line rate

and/or
Setting Exposure Time below for details.

set (mode 2 or 6), to set the exposure time. Refer to Setting Line Rate and

Setting the Exposure Mode

To select an exposure mode, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Exposure mode to use. Factory setting is 1. Refer to

Notes: To obtain the current value of the exposure mode, use the

Related Commands:

Example:

sem i
i

Table 9 on page 27 for a list of available modes.

command

ssf, set
sem 3

gcp.

Setting Line Rate

Camera must be operating in exposure mode 2.

To set the line rate, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Desired line rate in Hz. Allowable range is 1000Hz to the

Notes:

Related Commands:

ssf i
i

camera’s maximum line rate. See Table 1. Piranha2
Operating Requirements and Ranges for maximum line
rates.

• To read the current line rate frequency, use the command

gcp.

• If you enter an invalid line rate frequency, the valid range of

values will be displayed.

sem, set

Example:

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29 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Setting Exposure Time

Camera must be operating in exposure mode 2 or 6.

To set the camera exposure time, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Floating point number in µsecs.

Notes:

Related Commands:

Example:

set f
f

• To read the current exposure time, use the command gcp.

• If you enter an invalid exposure time, the valid range of

values will be displayed.

sem, ssf
set 2100

3.10 Setting a Region of Interest

The roi command sets the pixel range used to collect the end of line statistic and sets the
region of pixels used in the

To define a region of interest, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Pixel start number. Must be an odd number and less

cag, cao, gl, gla, ccf, and ccp commands.

roi x1 x2

x1

than the pixel end number.

x2

Pixel end number. Must be an even number and greater

than the pixel start number.

Related Commands cag, cao, gl, gla, ccf, ccp

Example:

roi 10 50

3.11 Returning Video Information

The camera’s microcontroller has the ability to read video data. This functionality can be
used to verify camera operation and to perform basic testing without having to connect
the camera to a frame grabber. This information is also used for collecting line statistics
for calibrating the camera.

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Returning a Single Line of Video

The gl command returns a complete line of video (without digital processing or test
pattern) displaying one pixel value after another. It also displays the minimum,
maximum, and mean value of the line sampled. If a region of interest has been set, the
statistics are generated for the region of interest only.

Use this command, or the following
range into the processing chain before executing any pixel calibration commands.

To return a single line of video, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Optional parameter. This sets the start pixel to display

Optional parameter. This sets the end pixel to display on

Notes:

Example:

gl [x1] [x2]
[x1]

[x2]

• If you do not specify a pixel range to display, the line output

will display all sensor pixels on screen.

• If a region of interest has been set using the roi command,

the Min, Max, and Mean statistics at the end of the line
output include statistics for the region of interest only.

• If you are using the 4 tap model, and your region of interest

is in one half of the sensor only (taps 1 and 2, or taps 3 and 4),
the values displayed on screen for the taps outside the ROI
are a mean of the ROI line statistics.

• Values returned are in DN.

gl 10 20

gla command, to ensure the proper video input

on screen. Allowable range is 1 to sensor pixel count.
This parameter does not affect the Min, Max, and Mean
statistics generated at the end of the line output.

screen. Allowable range is 1 to sensor pixel count. This
parameter does not affect the Min, Max, and Mean
statistics generated at the end of the line output.

Returning Multiple Lines of Video

You can also return the average for multiple lines of video data. The number of lines to
sample is set and adjusted by the
Mean statistics. If you are using a region of interest, the camera displays the statistics for
the region of interest only.

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css command. The camera displays the Min., Max., and

31 Piranha2 User’s Manual

To set the number of lines to sample, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Number of lines to sample. Allowable values are 16, 32,

Notes: To return the current setting, use the gcp command.

Example:

css i
i

or 64 (factory setting).

css 32

To return the average of multiple lines of video, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Optional parameter. This sets the start pixel to display

Optional parameter. This sets the end pixel to display on

Notes:

Example:

gla [x1] [x2]
[x1]

on screen. Allowable range is 1 to sensor pixel count.
This value does not affect the Min, Max, and Mean
statistics generated at the end of the line output.

[x2]

• If you do not specify a pixel range to display, the line output

• If a region of interest has been set using the roi command,

• If you are using the 4 tap model, and your region of interest

• Values returned are in DN.

gl 10 20

screen. Allowable range is 1 to sensor pixel count. This
value does not affect the Min, Max, and Mean statistics
generated at the end of the line output.

will display all sensor pixels on screen.

the Min, Max, and Mean statistics at the end of the line
output include statistics for the region of interest only.

is in one half of the sensor only (taps 1 and 2, or taps 3 and 4),
the values displayed on screen for the taps outside the ROI
are a mean of the ROI line statistics.

3.12 Optimizing Offset Performance

Optimizing offset performance in the analog domain allows you to achieve a better
signal-to-noise ratio (dynamic range) than you would achieve by trying to optimize the
offset in the digital domain.

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Setting Analog Offset

To set the analog offset of the camera, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

Analog offset value. Allowable range is 0 to 1023.
Notes:

Example:

sao t i
t

i

• The offset increases linearly with higher values. A value of

• The resulting analog offset value depends on other camera

• The offset for calibrated and uncalibrated video is set and

sao 0 200

100 does not equal an offset of 100DN.

parameters such as temperature, line rate, and gain.

saved separately.

Subtracting Offset or Background

To subtract the video scene offset or any other background from the output video signal,
use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

ssb t i
t

i

Subtracted value in a range from 0 to 511.

Notes: When subtracting a digital value from the digital video signal the

Example:

output can no longer reach its maximum. Use the
to correct for this. See section 3.13 Setting Gains for details on the

ssg command.

ssb 0 20

ssg command

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Subtracting Offset in Calibrated Mode

To subtract the A/D offset from the video signal in calibrated mode only (svm 1), prior to
the PRNU correction, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

Subtracted offset value in a range from 0 to 511.

Notes:

Example:

sdo t i
t

i

• When subtracting a digital value from the digital video

• Available in calibrated mode only (svm 1).

sdo 0 100

signal, the output can no longer reach its maximum. Use the
ssg command to correct for this. See section 3.13 Setting
Gains for details on the ssg command.

Calibrating Offset

To calibrate the analog offset, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

cao t i
t

i

The line average in a range dependent on the current

camera data mode setting.
8 bit: 1 to 100DN
10 bit: 4 to 400DN
See section 3.11 Returning Video Information for more

information on line averages

Notes: This command sets offset in uncalibrated mode (svm 0).

Example:

cao 0 100

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3.13 Setting Gains

Optimizing gain in the analog domain allows you to achieve a better signal-to-noise ratio
(dynamic range) than you would achieve by trying to optimize the gain in the digital
domain.

To set the analog gain mode, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

Gain setting. A gain value of 0 sets the camera to its

Example:

To set the digital gain, following a background subtraction, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Related Commands:

sg t f
t

f

sg 0 5.2

ssg t i

t

i

ssb

nominal gain (0dB). The specified gain value range is
from –10 to 10dB.

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

Gain setting. The gain ranges are 0 to 511 (equal to a gain

from 1 to 1.999). Use this command in conjunction with
the

ssb command.

Example:

Calibrating Gains

Instead of setting the analog gain to a specific value, you can have the camera determine
the gain value by providing the camera with an average output level to use.

Note: This function requires a constant light input while it executes. This feature is

beneficial for achieving a common output level for multiple cameras in a system.

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ssg 1 15

35 Piranha2 User’s Manual

To calibrate the analog gain:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Notes:

Related Commands:

Example:

cag t i
t

Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4, or 0 for all taps.

i

Line average in a range dependent on the current camera
data mode setting:

8-bit: 64 to 251 DN
10 bit: 256 to 1007 DN
See section 3.11 Returning Video Information for more

information on line averages

• This function requires constant light input while executing.

• This command sets gain in uncalibrated mode.

gla, gl
cag 1 156

3.14 How to Calibrate the Camera

Calibration Overview

This camera has the ability to calibrate itself in order to remove non-uniformity in the
image. This video correction operates on a pixel-by-pixel basis and implements a two
point correction for each pixel. This correction can reduce or eliminate image distortion
caused by the following factors:

Fixed Pattern Noise (FPN)

Photo Response Non Uniformity (PRNU)

Lens and light source non-uniformity

The two point correction is implemented such that for each pixel:

= (V

V

output

where V

V

PRNU( pixel) = PRNU correction coefficient for this pixel

FPN( pixel ) = FPN correction coefficient for this pixel

The calibration algorithm is performed in two steps. The fixed offset (FPN) is determined
first by performing a calibration without any light. This calibration determines exactly
how much offset to subtract per pixel in order to obtain flat output when the CCD is not
exposed.

- FPN( pixel ) - digital offset) * PRNU(pixel)

input

output

input

= digital output pixel value

= digital input pixel value from the CCD

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The white light calibration is performed next to determine the multiplication factors
required to bring each pixel to the required value (balance target) for flat, white output.
Video output is set slightly above the brightest pixel (depending on offset subtracted).

For FPN (dark light) the value of all pixels must be between 1DN and 127DN. For PRNU
(white light) the value must be between 128DN and 254DN. Use the
ensure the proper input to the digital processing, V

White light calibration will gain up to maximum white light pixel plus the maximum FPN
subtract pixel.

When performing any camera calibration, random noise is minimized by averaging out
up to 64 lines of valid data. To adjust the sample line size, use the

i is 16, 32, 64 (factory setting). A lower value reduces the camera’s calibration time,

where
at the expense of increased coefficient error.

Calibration time Typical

1024 10 sec.
2048 19 sec.
4096 38 sec.
6144 85 sec.
8192 115 sec.

LED blinks green while calibrating.

IMPORTANT: While camera is blinking green, do

input

.

gl command to

css i command,

not power down camera or memory may be corrupted.

Calibration Steps Overview

1. Change camera video mode to calibrated using the command svm 1

2. Set up the camera operating environment (i.e. line rate, exposure, gain, etc.)

3. Make sure there are suitable calibration targets. The target to calibrate should be a flat

field, e.g. plastic or ceramic for white calibration.

4. Set the calibration sample size using the command

of Video page 30).

5. Perform Dark (FPN) calibration (see Dark Calibration on page 36).

6. Perform White (PRNU) calibration (see White Light Calibration on page 37).

7. Save settings and pixel coefficients using the commands

Note: It is important to do the FPN calibration first. Results of the FPN calibration are
used in the PRNU procedure. We recommend that you repeat the calibration when a
temperature change greater than 10°C occurs.

css (see Returning Multiple Lines

wus and wpc.

Dark Calibration

Dark calibration is used to remove the fixed analog offset from the video path. It is
recommended you repeat the calibration when a temperature change greater than 10°C
occurs.

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To perform dark calibration:

1. Stop all light from entering the camera. (Tip: cover lens with a lens cap.)

2. Verify that output signal level is within range by issuing the command gl or

gla (a valid range is 1-127). If the signal level is too low, adjust the analog offset

(

sao). If the signal level is too high, ensure that no light is entering the camera,

reduce the analog offset or reduce the gain level (

3. Issue the command ccf. The camera will respond with OK> if no error occurs. Dark

calibration automatically calibrates FPN coefficients and digital offset.

To perform a dark calibration with an analog offset value:

sg).

Note: If your
illumination or white
reference does not
extend the full field of
view of the camera,
calibration will not be
successful. The camera
will send a warning.

Use the
parameter is provided, this command sets the analog offset first to
the FPN coefficients range from 1 to 100DN for 8-bit data mode, and 4 to 400DN for
10-bit data mode for the specified region of interest. If value is left blank, current offset
values are used.

4. After the calibration is complete, you can save these settings, and the PRNU

coefficients, to non-volatile memory so they will be remembered after power-down.
To do so, issue the command

ccf [i] command, where i is the analog offset DN. When the optional

i before calculating

wpc.

White Light Calibration

White light calibration is more complex than dark calibration because the camera
attempts to create a flat white image. This calibration corrects PRNU effects as well as
non-uniform lighting and lens vignetting affects.

White light calibration requires a clean, white reference. The quality of this reference is
important for proper calibration. White paper is often not sufficient because the grain in
the white paper will distort the correction. White plastic or white ceramic will lead to
better balancing.

There are several restrictions that must be met in order for the calibration to succeed:

1. The camera is sufficiently sensitive to detect 60 Hz ambient light flicker which may

affect camera performance and calibration results.

2. The light level must be set so that all pixels are between 64DN and 254DN, otherwise

a warning will be sent stating that the camera could not calibrate all pixels to the same
level. Use the
too high, adjust analog gain using the command

3. The variance in light intensity across the target must not be more than 4 to 1. Because

the maximum per-pixel digital gain is 2x, the camera will not be able to compensate
for extremely non-uniform light.

These restrictions are all tested within the calibration algorithm and the camera will
report an informal message code if any of these conditions could not be met.

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gl command to determine input level. If the signal level is too low or

sg.

38 Piranha2 User’s Manual

To perform a white light calibration:

1. Place a white reference in front of the camera.

2. Verify that output signal level is within range by issuing the command gl or gla

(valid range is 128-254). If signal level is too low or too high, adjust the gain using the
command

3. Instruct the camera to perform a white light calibration using the command ccp. The

camera will respond with OK> if no error occurs.

To perform a white light calibration with an analog gain value:

sg.

Use the
is adjusted to produce an average white pixel level that is equivalent to the parameter.
This command sets the analog gain first to
range from 64 to 251DN for 8-bit data mode, and 256 to 1007DN for 10-bit data mode.
If value is left blank, current gain values are used.

4. After the calibration is complete, you can save these settings to non-volatile memory

so they will be remembered after power-down. To do so, issue the command

ccp [i] command. When the optional parameter is provided the analog gain

i before calculating the PRNU coefficients

Returning Calibration Results and Errors

After calibration, you can retrieve the results using the command dpc. This function
returns all the pixel coefficients in the order FPN, PRNU, FPN, PRNU… The camera also
returns the pixel number with each coefficient.

To set a range for the returned coefficients provide an optional pixel start and end value:

Example: display pixel coefficient from pixel 10 to 20

dpc 10 20

The command gcp returns all other settings.

3.15 Setting and Reading FPN Coefficients

wpc.

You can set or read an individual pixel’s FPN coefficient.

To set the FPN coefficient, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Example:

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sfc i i
i

The pixel number from 1 to the pixel count.

i

Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 127.

sfc 10 50

39 Piranha2 User’s Manual

+

=

To read the FPN coefficient, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Example:

gfc i
i

The pixel number to read.

gfc 10

3.16 Setting and Reading PRNU Coefficients

You can set or read an individual pixel’s PRNU coefficient.

To set the PRNU coefficient, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Example:

spc i i
i

The pixel number from 1 to the pixel count.

i

Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 511 where:

i

PixelPRNU

spc 10 50

1

512

To read the PRNU coefficient, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Example:

gpc i
i

The pixel number to read.

gpc 10

3.17 Generating Test Patterns

The camera can generate a test pattern to aid in system debugging. Use the command

svm 2 to activate the test pattern. The test pattern is a ramp from 0 to 255DN, then starts

at 0 again. Use the test pattern to verify the proper timing and connections between the
camera and the frame grabber.

End-of-line Sequence

To further aid debugging, the camera can generate an end-of-line sequence. The end-of­line-sequence outputs "aa", "55", "aa", "line counter", "line average", "pixels above
threshold", "pixels below threshold", "derivative line sum". To activate the end-of-line
sequence, use the command
command

els 0.

els 1. To disable the end-of-line sequence, use the

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40 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Use the sut and slt commands to set threshold values between 0 and 255 for 8-bit data
modes, or 0 to 1023 for 10-bit data modes.

3.18 Monitoring the Camera

The camera is equipped with a red/green LED used to display the operational status of
the camera. The following table summarizes the operating states of the camera and the
corresponding LED states:

LED state Priority Camera

Condition

Status

Blinking RED 1 Error Fatal hardware failure

Steady RED 2 Warning Monitoring task failure

Blinking GREEN 3 Progress Lengthy operation in progress. While

camera is blinking green, do not power
down camera or memory may be corrupted.

Steady GREEN 4 OK Healthy

Note: When more than one condition is active, the LED indicates the condition with the
highest priority. Error and warning states are accompanied by corresponding messages
further describing the current camera status.

Monitoring Tasks

The camera enters a warning state when any of camera's continuously running
monitoring tasks detects a failure. Use the
is the monitoring task and the second parameter is the enable or disable value, to display
the status of all the defined monitory tasks (if no parameter is passed) and/or to
enable/disable specific monitoring tasks.

Note: If you are performing defect detection down to a single pixel, enabling monitoring
tasks is not advisable because monitoring can occur during active video and could
potentially provide erroneous data.

wed i i command, where the first parameter

The following table lists the monitoring tasks:

Monitoring
task number

0 All Enable/disable all monitoring tasks

1 1 Voltage Monitoring Monitors all camera voltages

2 2 Temperature Monitoring Monitors camera temperature

3 4 External SYNC presence Monitors presence of external SYNC

4 8 External PRIN presence Monitors presence of external PRIN

5 16 Gain Out Of Spec

6 32 Line Rate Bellow 1 Khz Monitors current line rate

Value Function

0 Disable selected task

1 Enable selected task

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Code MONITORING TASK DESCRIPTION

Monitors current setting of analog

Monitoring

gain

41 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Note: by default all monitoring tasks are enabled except voltage monitoring.

Example: enable all monitoring tasks

wed 0 1

Example: disable EXSYNC presence

wed 3 0

Temperature Measurement

The temperature of the camera can be determined by using the vt command. This
command will return the temperature inside the cover in degrees Celsius. For proper
operation, this value should not exceed 75°C.

Voltage Measurement

The command vv checks the camera’s input voltage and internal voltages during power­up. If they are within the proper range, the camera returns OK>. Otherwise the camera
returns an error message. Note that the voltage measurement feature of the camera
provides only approximate results (typically within 10%). They should not be used to set
the applied voltage to the camera. The purpose of this test is to isolate gross problems
with the supply voltages.

3.19 Rebooting the Camera

The command rc reboots the camera. The camera starts up with the last saved settings.
Previously saved pixel coefficients are also restored.

3.20 Setting the Pre-trigger

A pre-trigger may be required for some frame grabbers.

To set the pre-trigger, use the command:

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

Example:

sp i
i

Pretrigger value from 0 to 15.

sp 10

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42 Piranha2 User’s Manual

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43 Piranha2 User’s Manual

4

Optical, Mechanical, and
Thermal Considerations

4.1 Mechanical Interface

The camera’s electronics are housed in a ruggedized lightweight aluminum case. See
Error! Reference source not found. and Error! Reference source not found..

Mounting

The camera can be mounted using the M3 holes (metric-threaded) on its base or top, and
on its front plate at the corners.

Environment

The camera and cables should be shielded from environmental noise sources for best
operation. The camera should also be kept as cool as possible. The specified operating
temperature is 10–50°C measured at the front plate, (the corresponding ambient
temperature range with still air is 0°C to 37°C). Mounting holes (refer above) allow you to
attach heat sinking.

Thermal Management

For any CCD camera optimal performance is achieved by transferring heat away from the
sensor. Keeping a sensor “cool” reduces the amount of dark current generated. Dark
current is the leading contributor to FPN, PRNU, dark offset, random noise and other
performance specifications, especially when a camera is significantly gained (i.e. +10db).
Generally, dark current doubles for every 7°C increase in temperature at the sensor and
increases linearly with integration time. Further variations in dark current cannot be
compensated for with our flat-field correction algorithms. For this reason, at high gains
(+10dB), high temperatures (40°C front plate), and low line rates, it is recommended that
you recalibrate the flat-field coefficients when the temperature shifts by ±10°C.

Note: Upon initial power-up the front plate camera temperature is near ambient. It is
recommended to perform flat-field correction once the camera gets within 10°C of its

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44 Piranha2 User’s Manual

steady state temperature. For Piranha2, at an ambient temperature of 25°C and with no
airflow, the camera takes 90 minutes to achieve steady state and 20 minutes to reach
within 10°C of steady state. If your system cannot perform flat-field correction after
warm-up consider the recommended methods of reducing dark current and overall
camera temperatures (see below).

Reducing Dark Current

The Piranha2 mechanicals have been optimized to transfer heat from the sensor to the
front plate. Therefore, to reduce dark current the front plate is the ideal place to mount
heat sinks.

The heat fins on Piranha2 improve conduction and provide a greater surface area for
convection (airflow). Mount fans away from the camera to avoid vibration, and direct the
airflow on the heat fins to decrease the temperature delta between ambient and front
plate temperatures. Convection is the ideal method to minimize camera warm-up times
and reduce dark current generation.

Both methods— either conduction through heat sinking, or convection through air flow—
greatly reduce dark current and will improve your system performance.

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45 Piranha2 User’s Manual

A

Figure 8: Piranha2, 2 tap models

PIXEL 1 (1K) 19.88±0.18

1k/2k(10 µm),
2 TAP WITH C-MOUNT

()

4k 7 µm

1k/2k (10 µm)
2 TAP WITH F-MOUNT

60.3

,( )

56.1

4k (7 µm

PIXEL 1 (2K) 14.76 ±0.18

PIXEL 1 (4K) 10.66 ±0.18

M3x0.5 - 6H(4X)

6.0 DEEP

89.2

M42X1

4.5 DEEP

5

.
2

4.0 (2X)

27.0

)
2X

)

2X

(

0

.

4

3

(

57.0

42.0 (2X)

CONTROL/DATA 1

5.0

8

0.5

STATUS

1

POWER

10.3

OPTICA L DISTANCE

6.56±0.25

CAMERA SURFACE

TO DIE SURFACE

54.9 (2 X )

32.0 (2X)9.0 (2X)

53.8

49.3

6.0 (4X)

M3x0.5 - 6H

5.0 DEEP

(4X)

50.0

6K/8K , ( )

( ) 4K 10 µm

7 µm

2 TAP WITH

LARGE FORMAT

ADAPTER

PIXEL 1 (2K) 32.26 ±0.18

M3x0.5
x

6.0

(4X)

32.50±0.18

CCD IMAGING

CENTER

6K 7 µm , ( )

2 TAP WITH F MOUNT

62.3

Ø78.0

M72X0.75

2K Camera

78.0 (2X)

()4K10µm

PIXEL 1 (4K) 22.02 ±0.18
PIXEL 1 (6K) 21.00 ±0.18
PIXEL 1 (8K) 13.83 ±0.18

M3x0.5 - 6H (4X)

7.0 DEEP

M2x0.4 - 6H (4X)

7.0 DEEP

89.2

32.5

46.81 (2X)

3.5 (2X)

9.1(2X)

78.0 (2X)

85.0

Figure 9: Piranha2, 4 tap, 10 µm models

PIXEL 1 (4K) 22.02 ±0.18

(4X)

M42x1
x

4.5

M3x0.5 - 6H

7.0DEEP

(4X)

M2x0.4 - 6H

7.0 DEEP

58.0
(2X)

3.5
(2X)

5

.

2

3

)

)

X

X

2

2

(

(

1

5

.

.

9

3

4K Camera

46.81(2X

)

78.0 (2X)

85.0

19.1 (2X)

3.5 (2X)

58.0 (2X)

46.81 (2X)

85.0

65.0

19.1 (2X)

3.5 (2X)

)
X
2

(
1

8

.

6

4

CONTROL

DATA 1

10.5

25.0

STATUS
POWER

54.9(2X)

OPTICAL DISTANCE

6.56±0.25

CAMERASURFACE

TO DIESURFACE

7.5 (2X)

70.0 (2X)

49.3

53.7

6.0(4X)

M3x0.5 - 6H (4X)

5.0 DEEP

(32.8) 2X

(10.9) 2X

(10.5) 2X

)
X

0

0

.

.

2

(

5

5

8

6

0

.
8

5

(49.3)

(53.8)

(85.0)

(65.0)

(10.0)

(24.9)

(85.0)

(64.0) 2X

CONTROL
DATA 1

DATA 2

STATUS

POWER

(41.6)

2X

(10.5)

(32.1)

(54.8)

M3x0.5
x

5.0

(4X)

7.5 (2X)

70.0 (2X )

6.0 (4X)

03-32-00493-11 DALSA

CAMERA ASSEMBLY WITH
C-MOUNT LENS ADAPTER
SCALE (1:2)

CAMERA ASSEMBLY WITH
F-MOUNT LENS ADAPTER
SCALE (1:2)

46 Piranha2 User’s Manual

A

ATA

Figure 10: Piranha2, 4 tap, 7 µm models

STANDARD 8K 4 TAP WITH
LARGE FORMAT ADAPTER

STANDARD 4K/6K 4 TAP
WITH F MOUNT

62.3

Ø78.0

M72X0.75

PIXEL 1 (4K) 28.16 ±0.18

PIXEL 1 (6K) 21.00 ±0.18
PIXEL 1 (8K) 13.83 ±0.18

M3x0.5 - 6H

(4X)

6.56±0.25

89.2

OPTICAL DISTANCE

7.5 (2X)

TO DIE SURFACE

CAMERASURFACE

70.0 (2X)

CONTROL
DATA 1

DAT A 2

10.5

STATUS

POWER

49.3

6.0 (4X)

M3x0.5 - 6H

5.0 DEEP

(2X)

54.9

7.0 DEEP
(4X)

M2x0.4 - 6H

53.7

7.0 DEEP

(4X)

32.5

46.81 (2X)

3.5 (2X)

9.1 (2X)

78.0 (2X)

85.0

19.1 (2X)

3.5 (2X)

58.0 (2X)

46.81 (2X)

85.0

65.0

SLIM LINE 8K 4 TAP

WITH LARG E FOR M AT ADAPTE R

49.3

66.8

6.0

(4X)

13.0

7.5 (2X)

61.0 (2X )

PIXEL 1 (8K)

M3x0.5 - 6H

5.0 DEEP
(4X)

105.0

9.32±0.18

x0.75

M72

42.50±0.18
PIXEL 1

3.5 (2X)

25.0

69.0 (2X)

76.0 MAX

78.0
(2X)

3.5

(2X)

M3x0.5 - 6H

6.0 DEEP
(4X)

5.6 (2X)

85.0

10.0

(2X)

32.1

32.8 (2X)

6.56±0.25
OPTICAL DISTANCE
(ACTIV E AREA TO FRONT
PLATE M O UNT SURFAC E )

POWER

CONTROL

DATA1

D

22.9

39.6
(2X)

22.8

2

TUS

ST

37.6

16.0

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47 Piranha2 User’s Manual

4.2 Optical Interface

Depending upon resolution the cameras can be ordered with different lens mounts. The
following table provides this information.

Lens Mounts

Camera
Configuration

1K, 2 Tap No mount and C-mount

2K, 2 Tap, 4 Tap No mount, C-mount and F-mount

4K, 2 Tap No mount and F-mount and

4K, 4 Tap No mount, F-mount and M72x0.75

6K, 2 Tap No mount, F-mount and M72x0.75

6K, 4 Tap No mount, F-mount and M72x0.75

8K, 2 Tap No mount, and M72x0.75

8K, 4 Tap No mount, and M72x0.75

All C-mount and F-mount adapters have the appropriate back focal distance for the lens
type being used. Ensure that the image circle diameter of the lens to be used is as great as
the length of the imaging region. The following table provides information regarding the
lens mount used and the back focal distance. The M72x0.75 lens adapter originated from
the high-end photography standard. Distances to its inner flat surface and the outer flat
surface are provided.

Mount Back Focal Distance (sensor die to

adapter)

C-Mount 17.52 ±0.25mm

F-Mount 46.5 ±0.25mm

M72x0.75 19.55mm (nominal)—outer flat surface

Detailed mechanicals, including front plate opening sizes, and the distance from the
sensor die to the opening, can be found in section 4.1 Mechanical Interface.

Available Lens Mount
Options

M72x0.75 (10µm model only)

Note: Lens manufacturers have readily available lens mounts and lenses to adapt to the
M72x0.75 adapter available on the 6K and 8K cameras.

Illumination

The amount and wavelengths of light required to capture useful images depend on the
particular application. Factors include the nature, speed, and spectral characteristics of
objects being imaged, exposure times, light source characteristics, environmental and
acquisition system specifics, and more. DALSA’s web site, vfm.dalsa.com, provides an
introduction to this potentially complicated issue. See “Radiometry and Photo
Responsivity” and "Sensitivities in Photometric Units" in the CCD Technology Primer
found under the Application Support link.

It is often more important to consider exposure than illumination. The total amount of
energy (which is related to the total number of photons reaching the sensor) is more

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48 Piranha2 User’s Manual

important than the rate at which it arrives. For example, 5µJ/cm2 can be achieved by
exposing 5mW/cm

2

for 1ms just the same as exposing an intensity of 5W/cm2 for 1µs.

Light Sources

Keep these guidelines in mind when setting up your light source.

• LED light sources are relatively inexpensive, provide a uniform field, and longer life
span compared to other light sources. However, they also require a camera with
excellent sensitivity, such as DALSA’s Piranha2 camera.

• Halogen light sources generally provide very little blue relative to IR.

• Fiber-optic light distribution systems generally transmit very little blue relative to IR.

• Some light sources age; over their life span they produce less light. This aging may
not be uniform—a light source may produce progressively less light in some areas of
the spectrum but not others.

Filters

CCD cameras are extremely responsive to infrared (IR) wavelengths of light. To prevent
infrared from distorting the images you scan, use a “hot mirror” or IR cutoff filter that
transmits visible wavelengths but does not transmit wavelengths over 750nm. Examples
are the Schneider Optics™ B+W 489, which includes a mounting ring, the CORION™ LS­750, which does not include a mounting ring, and the CORION™ HR-750 series hot
mirror.

Lens Modeling

Any lens surrounded by air can be modeled for camera purposes using three primary
points: the first and second principal points and the second focal point. The primary
points for a lens should be available from the lens data sheet or from the lens
manufacturer. Primed quantities denote characteristics of the image side of the lens. That

′

is, h is the object height and h

The focal point is the point at which the image of an infinitely distant object is brought to
focus. The effective focal length (f
second focal point. The back focal length (BFL) is the distance from the image side of the
lens surface to the second focal point. The object distance (OD) is the distance from the first
principal point to the object.

Figure 11. Primary Points in a Lens System

is the image height.

′

) is the distance from the second principal point to the

Magnification and Resolution

The magnification of a lens is the ratio of the image size to the object size:

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49 Piranha2 User’s Manual

h

′

=

m

h

By similar triangles, the magnification is alternatively given by:

f

′

=

m

OD

=

10

100

µµm

′

45

mmmOD

These equations can be combined to give their most useful form:

h

′

hfOD

Example: An acquisition system has a 512 x 512 element, 10µm pixel pitch area scan
camera, a lens with an effective focal length of 45mm, and requires that 100µm in the
object space correspond to each pixel in the image sensor. Using the preceding equation,
the object distance must be 450mm (0.450m).

4.3 Compliance

The Piranha2 cameras have been designed for EMC compliance. The test setup has been
verified to the following EMC standards:

where m is the magnification, h’ is the image height (pixel size)
and h is the object height (desired object resolution size).

This is the governing equation for many object and image plane
parameters.

450 0 450

OD mm m==(. )

CISPR-22:1997

EN 50082-1:1997

EN 61000-4-2; ±6kV CD, ±8kV AD:1995

EN 61000-4-3; 3V/m:1996

EN 61000-4-4; 500V, 1100V:1995

Follow these specific guidelines to ensure best performance:

• Keep Camera Link cables as short as possible.

• Ensure that all cable shields have 360° electrical connection to the connector.

• Fasten and secure all connectors.

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51 Piranha2 User’s Manual

5

CCD Handling
Instructions

5.1 Electrostatic Discharge and the CCD Sensor

Cameras contain charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensors, which are metal oxide
semiconductor (MOS) devices and are susceptible to damage from electrostatic discharge
(ESD).

Electrostatic charge introduced to the sensor window surface can induce charge buildup
on the underside of the window that cannot be readily dissipated by the dry nitrogen gas
in the sensor package cavity. When charge buildup occurs, surface-gated photodiodes
(SGPDs) may exhibit higher image lag. Some SGPD sensors, such as the IL-P4 and the IT­P4 used in the Piranha2 cameras, may also exhibit a highly non-uniform response when
affected by charge buildup, with some pixels displaying a much higher response when
the sensor is exposed to uniform illumination. The charge normally dissipates within 24
hours and the sensor returns to normal operation.

WARNING:

!

erroneous calibration, ensure that you perform flat-field correction only after a charge buildup
has dissipated over 24 hours.

Charge buildup will affect the camera’s flat-field correction calibration. To avoid an

5.2 Protecting Against Dust, Oil and Scratches

The CCD window is part of the optical path and should be handled like other optical
components, with extreme care.

Dust can obscure pixels, producing dark patches on the sensor response. Dust is most
visible when the illumination is collimated. The dark patches shift position as the angle of
illumination changes. Dust is normally not visible when the sensor is positioned at the
exit port of an integrating sphere, where the illumination is diffuse.

Dust can normally be removed by blowing the window surface using a compressed air
blower, unless the dust particles are being held by an electrostatic charge, in which case
either an ionized air blower or wet cleaning is necessary.

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52 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Oil is usually introduced during handling. Touching the surface of the window
barehanded will leave oily residues. Using rubber fingercots and rubber gloves can
prevent oil contamination. However, the friction between the rubber and the window
may produce electrostatic charge that may damage the sensor. To avoid ESD damage and
to avoid introducing oily residues, only hold the sensor from the edges of the ceramic
package and avoid touching the sensor pins and the window.

Scratches can be caused by improper handling, cleaning or storage of the sensor. Vacuum
picking tools should not come in contact with the window surface. CCDs should not be
stored in containers where they are not properly secured and can slide against the
container.

Scratches diffract incident illumination. When exposed to uniform illumination, a sensor
with a scratched window will normally have brighter pixels adjacent to darker pixels. The
location of these pixels changes with the angle of illumination.

5.3 Cleaning the Sensor Window

1. Use compressed air to blow off loose particles. This step alone is usually sufficient to

clean the sensor window.

2. If further cleaning is required, use a lens wiper moistened with alcohol or acetone.

3. We recommend using lint-free ESD-safe cloth wipers that do not contain particles that

can scratch the window. The Anticon Gold 9”x 9” wiper made by Milliken is both ESD
safe and suitable for class 100 environments. Another ESD acceptable wiper is the
TX4025 from Texwipe.

4. An alternative to ESD-safe cloth wipers is Transplex swabs that have desirable ESD

properties. There are several varieties available from Texwipe. Do not use regular
cotton swabs, since these can introduce charge to the window surface.

5. Wipe the window carefully and slowly.

6. When cleaning long linear sensors, it may be easier to wipe along the width (i.e. as

opposed to the length) of the sensor.

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53 Piranha2 User’s Manual

6

Troubleshooting

The information in this chapter can help you solve problems that may occur during the
setup of your camera. Remember that the camera is part of the entire acquisition system.
You may have to troubleshoot any or all of the following:

power supplies cabling

frame grabber hardware & software host computer

light sources optics

operating environment encoder

Your steps in dealing with a technical problem should be:

1. Try the general and specific solutions listed in sections 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3.

2. If these solutions do not resolve your problem, see section 6.4 on getting product

support.

6.1 Common Solutions

Connections

The first step in troubleshooting is to verify that your camera has all the correct
connections.

Power Supply Voltages

Check for the presence of all voltages at the camera power connector. Verify that all
grounds are connected.

EXSYNC

When the camera is powered on for the first time, it defaults (no external input required)
to exposure mode 2 (5kHz line rate, and internal Sync to trigger readout). After a user has
saved settings, the camera powers up with the saved settings. Note, a warning appears
when switching to exposure mode requiring external signals if external signals are not
present (EXSYNC or PRIN).

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54 Piranha2 User’s Manual

PRIN

PRIN is an optional input signal used to control exposure control (PRIN).

PRIN Indicates

High Integration
Low Pixel reset

Data Clocking/Output Signals

To validate cable integrity, have the camera send out a test pattern and verify it is being
properly received. Refer to section D11 Generating Test Patterns for further information.

6.2 Troubleshooting Using the Serial Interface

The following commands can aid in debugging. (The complete command protocol is
described in Appendix B and C.)

Communications

To quickly verify serial communications send the help command . The h command
returns the online help menu. If further problems persist, review Appendix C for more
information on communications.

Verify Parameters

To verify the camera parameters, send the gcp command. See section C6 Camera
Parameter Screen for a complete explanation of the camera parameters screen.

Verify Factory Calibrated Settings

To restore the camera’s factory settings and reset the FPN and PRNU coefficients to 0,
send the

After executing this command send the

rfs command.

gcp command to verify the factory settings.

Verify Timing and Digital Video Path

Use the test pattern feature to verify the proper timing and connections between the
camera and the frame grabber and verify the proper output along the digital processing
chain. See below.

Generating Test Patterns

The camera can generate a test pattern to aid in system debugging. Use the command

svm 2 to activate the test pattern. The test pattern is a ramp from 0 to 255DN, then starts

at 0 again. Use the test pattern to verify the proper timing and connections between the
camera and the frame grabber.

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• No test pattern or bad test pattern — May indicate a problem with the camera (e.g.

missing bit) or a system setup problem (e.g. frame grabber or timing). Verify the
presence of the LVAL and STROBE signals.

• Test pattern successful — Run the

Then run the
raw video (no digital processing). Under dark conditions, with factory settings, the
analog offset value should be within the specified range (refer to the user
specifications). Adjust the analog offset using the
light conditions, you should receive a value.

gl command under both dark and light conditions to retrieve a line of

svm 0 command to deactivate video correction.

cao or sao commands. Under

Verify Voltage

To check the camera’s input voltages and internal voltages, use the vv command. If they
are within the proper range, the camera returns OK>. Otherwise the camera returns an
error message.

Verify Temperature

To check the internal temperature of the camera, use the vt command. For proper
operation, this value should not exceed 75°C.

Verify Pixel Coefficients

To activate video correction, send the command svm 1. Then use the dpc command to
display the pixel coefficients in the order FPN, PRNU, FPN, PRNU… The camera also
returns the pixel number with each coefficient.

End-of-line Sequence

To further aid debugging, the camera can generate an end-of-line sequence. The end-of­line-sequence outputs "aa", "55", "line counter", "line average", "pixels above threshold",
"pixels below threshold". To activate the end-of-line sequence, use the command
To disable the end-of-line sequence, use the command

Use the
modes, or 0 to 1023 for 10-bit data modes.

sut and slt commands to set threshold values between 0 and 255 for 8-bit data

els 0.

els 1.

LED Status

Located on the back of the camera is a red/green LED used to display the operational
status of the camera. Red lights indicate errors or warnings and green lights indicate
progress and OKs. Error and warning states are accompanied by corresponding messages
further describing current camera status.

Monitoring Tasks

The camera enters a warning state when any of the camera's continuously running
monitoring tasks detects a failure. Use the
defined monitory tasks (if no parameter is passed) and/or to enable/disable specific
monitoring tasks.

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wed command to display the status of all the

56 Piranha2 User’s Manual

6.3 Specific Solutions

No Output or Erratic Behavior

If your camera provides no output or behaves erratically, it may be picking up random
noise from long cables acting as antennae. Do not attach wires to unused pins. Verify that
the camera is not receiving spurious inputs (e.g. EXSYNC or PRIN, if camera is in
exposure mode that regulates external signals).

Line Dropout, Bright Lines, or Incorrect Line Rate

Verify that the frequency of the internal sync is set correctly, or when the camera is set to
external sync that the EXSYNC signal supplied to the camera does not exceed the
camera’s maximum specified line rate.

Noisy Output

Check your power supply voltage outputs for noise. Noise present on these lines can
result in poor video quality. Low quality or non-twisted pair cable can also add noise to
the video output.

Dark Patches

If dark patches appear in your output the optics path may have become contaminated.
Clean your lenses and sensor windows with extreme care.

1. Take standard ESD precautions.

2. Wear latex gloves or finger cots

3. Blow off dust using a filtered blow bottle or dry, filtered compressed air.

4. Fold a piece of optical lens cleaning tissue (approx. 3" x 5") to make a square pad that

is approximately one finger-width

5. Moisten the pad on one edge with 2-3 drops of clean solvent—either alcohol or

acetone. Do not saturate the entire pad with solvent.

6. Wipe across the length of the window in one direction with the moistened end first,

followed by the rest of the pad. The dry part of the pad should follow the moistened
end. The goal is to prevent solvent from evaporating from the window surface, as this
will end up leaving residue and streaking behind.

7. Repeat steps 2-4 using a clean tissue until the entire window has been cleaned.

8. Blow off any adhering fibers or particles using dry, filtered compressed air.

Stuck Bits

If data bits seem to be stuck or do not change, check that the camera is not saturated by
preventing light from entering. To verify the data path integrity, check the levels of the 2

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test pattern pixels (first 2 pixels following the last End-of-line pixel. You may need to turn
the End-of-line sequence “on” by sending the command
consistent value of these pixels (170DN/85DN) could be an indication of the following:

• shorted bits

• stuck bits

• digital noise pickup on the I/O cable

• open connection.

els 1). Any deviation from a

To activate the test pattern, use the command
proper timing and connections between the camera and frame grabber.

To receive a complete line of raw video data (without digital processing or test pattern)
through the RS232 port, use the command
after another and the minimum, maximum, and mean value of the sampled line. Use this
command to ensure the proper video input range.

Probe the output lines with an oscilloscope. Disconnect the digital cable from the camera
and check the digital signals at the output of the camera. Ensure that the correct values
are present. Check all cable connections, especially right at the connector; poor
connections or broken wires will cause randomly changing bits or stuck bits.

svm 2. Use the test pattern to verify the

gl. The returned data displays one pixel value

Horizontal Lines or Patterns in Image

A faulty or irregular encoder signal may result in horizontal lines due to exposure time
fluctuations; ensure that your exposure time is regular. If you have verified that your
exposure time is consistent and patterns of low frequency intensity variations still occur,
ensure that you are using a DC or high frequency light source.

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6.4 Product Support

If there is a problem with your camera, collect the following data about your application
and situation and call your DALSA representative.

Note: You may also want to photocopy this page to fax to DALSA.

Customer name

Organization name

Customer phone number
fax number
Complete Product Model Number

(e.g. P2-21-xxx40, P2-21-xxx30...)

Complete Serial Number

Your DALSA Agent or Dealer

Acquisition System hardware

(frame grabber, host computer, light
sources, etc.)

Acquisition System software
(version, OS, etc.)

Power supplies and current draw

Data rate used

Control signals used in your
application, and their frequency or
state (if applicable)

Results when you run the
get_camera_parameter command

Detailed description of problem
encountered.

In addition to your local DALSA representative, you may need to call DALSA Technical
Sales Support:

Voice:

Fax:

North America

519-886-6000
519-886-8023

 EXSYNC  BIN
 MCLK  Other _______
 PRIN

please attach description with as
much detail as appropriate

Europe

[phone]

[phone]

519-886-6000
519-886-8023

Asia

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Appendix A

Camera Link™ Reference

Camera Link is a communication interface for vision applications.

For years, the scientific and industrial digital video market has lacked a standard method
of communication. Both frame grabbers and camera manufacturers developed products
with different connectors, making cable production difficult for manufacturers and very
confusing for consumers. A connectivity standard between digital cameras and frame
grabbers is long overdue and will become even more necessary as data rates continue to
increase.

Increasingly diverse cameras and advanced signal and data transmissions have made a
connectivity standard like Camera Link a necessity. The Camera Link interface will
reduce support time, as well as the cost of that support. The standard cable will be able to
handle the increased signal speeds, and the cable assembly will allow customers to
reduce their costs through volume pricing.

LVDS Technical Description

Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) is a high-speed, low-power general purpose
interface standard. The standard, known as ANSI/TIA/EIA-644, was approved in March

1996. LVDS uses differential signaling, with a nominal signal swing of 350mV differential.

The low signal swing decreases rise and fall times to achieve a theoretical maximum
transmission rate of 1.923 Gbps into a loss-less medium. The low signal swing also means
that the standard is not dependent on a particular supply voltage. LVDS uses current­mode drivers, which limit power consumption. The differential signals are immune to ±1
V common volt noise.

Camera Signal Requirements

This section provides definitions for the signals used in the Camera Link interface. The
standard Camera Link cable provides camera control signals, serial communication, and
video data.

Video Data

The Channel Link technology is integral to the transmission of video data. Image data
and image enable signals are transmitted on the Channel Link bus. Four enable signals
are defined as:

• FVAL—Frame Valid (FVAL) is defined HIGH for valid lines.

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• LVAL—Line Valid (LVAL) is defined HIGH for valid pixels.

• DVAL—Data Valid (DVAL) is defined HIGH when data is valid.

• Spare— A spare has been defined for future use.

All four enable signals must be provided by the camera on each Channel Link chip. All
unused data bits must be tied to a known value by the camera. For more information on
image data bit allocations, refer to the official Camera Link specification on the
vfm.dalsa.com web site.

Camera Control Signals

Four LVDS pairs are reserved for general-purpose camera control. They are defined as
camera inputs and frame grabber outputs. Camera manufacturers can define these signals
to meet their needs for a particular product. The signals are:

• Camera Control 1 (CC1)

• Camera Control 2 (CC2)

• Camera Control 3 (CC3)

• Camera Control 4 (CC4)

Communication

Two LVDS pairs have been allocated for asynchronous serial communication to and from
the camera and frame grabber. Cameras and frame grabbers should support at least 9600
baud. These signals are

• SerTFG—Differential pair with serial communications to the frame grabber.

• SerTC—Differential pair with serial communications to the camera.

The serial interface will have the following characteristics: one start bit, one stop bit, no
parity, and no handshaking. It is recommended that frame grabber manufacturers supply
both a user interface and a software application programmming interface (API) for using
the asynchronous serial communication port. The user interface will consist of a terminal
program with minimal capabilities of sending and receiving a character string and
sending a file of bytes. The software API will provide functions to enumerate boards and
send or receive a character string. See Appendix B in the Official Camera Link
specification on the vfm.dalsa.com web site.

Power

Power will not be provided on the Camera Link connector. The camera will receive
power through a separate cable. Camera manufacturers define their own power
connector, current, and voltage requirements.

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Appendix B

EMC Declaration of
Conformity

We,

declare under sole responsibility, that the product(s):

fulfill(s) the requirements of the standard(s)

EMC:

This product complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive
73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and carries the CE mark
accordingly.

Place of Issue Waterloo, ON, CANADA

Date of Issue October 2003

Name and Signature
of authorized person

DALSA
605 McMurray Rd.,
Waterloo, ON
CANADA N2V 2E9

P2-2x-xxx40
P2-4x-xxx40
P2-2x-xxx30

CISPR-22:1997
EN 50082-1:1997
EN 61000-4-2; +/- 6kV CD, +/-8kV AD:1995
EN 61000-4-3; 3V/m:1996
EN 61000-4-4; 500V, 1100V:1995

Hank Helmond
Quality Manager, DALSA Corp.

This Declaration corresponds to EN 45 014.

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Appendix C

Communications Protocol

C1 Protocol Overview

This protocol defines the method used to control the camera via a serial interface. The
communication protocol defines the command format used and error messages provided.

C2 Protocol Features

• ASCII-based

Camera Serial Port Defaults

• 8 data bits

• 1 stop bit

• No parity

• No flow control

• 9.6Kbps

• Camera does not echo characters

C3 Command Format and Examples

• A carriage return (CR) ends each command.

• Values in square brackets are optional.

• There are two methods for entering the commands: In long form each command is
written in its entirety. In short form, only a predefined abbreviation is required. The
manual used the short form.

• The following parameters are used in the manual:

= integer

i
f

= float

s = string

= tap

t
x1, x2 = pixel start and stop values

• The camera will answer each command with either "OK >" or "Error x: Error Message
>". The ">" is always the last character sent by the camera.

Command Format

command_long/short_form [parameters…] CR

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Example: to set the gain to –3.5dB on all taps

set_gain 0 –3.5

or

sg 0 –3.5

Example: to return the camera model number

get_camera_model

or

gcm

Example: to begin a camera calibration (dark correction)

correction_calibrate_fpn or correction_calibrate_fpn i

or

ccf or ccf i

C4 Networking Mode

The camera's network feature provides the capability to connect and control multiple
cameras over a multi-drop RS485 link.

The network feature consists of three commands and a set of definitions describing the
behavior of the camera when the commands are sent in network mode.

Command Short

set_camera_ID sci Sets camera network ID

get_camera_ID gci Reads camera ID

set_netmessage_mode snm 0: disable, default (messages enabled)

Camera ID

The camera ID is a single, case insensitive ASCII alphanumeric character: A to Z or 0 to 9.

To change the network ID for a camera, use the command
parameter is an ID of A to Z or 0 to 9, and the second, optional, parameter is the camera's
serial number.

To read current camera ID, use the

Description

Form

1: enable (messages disabled)

sci i i. Where the first

gcp command.

Changing Network ID of a Camera

To change the ID of a networked camera, even if some or all of the cameras share the
same camera ID, provide the serial number of the camera as the second parameter when
sending the broadcast version of the

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65 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Example: change network ID of camera with serial number abcd to 1

: sci 1 abcd

Note: each camera must be polled following use of a broadcast command.

The Network Commands

The network command is an ordinary camera command prefixed by a network prefix.
Network prefixes always start with the colon character ":" and are followed immediately
by the camera ID (addressing a single camera on the network), or space (addressing all
cameras on the network or a Broadcast command).

The camera replies to the network command only if it is addressed directly. The last line
of the camera reply (error or OK message) to the network command is prefixed with the
ID of the camera.

Example: return camera ID for camera a

:a gci

camera id: a

a OK>

Special Case: Empty Network Command

The empty network command is a special case of network commands. If the last
command issued was not a Broadcast command, the empty network command will cause
the addressed camera to output an "OK" message followed by the ">" prompt and
prefixed by the network ID. If the last command issued was a broadcast command, the
empty network command is used to query each camera for its READY/BUSY status.

Example: empty network command issued

:a CR

a OK>

Broadcast Commands and READY/BUSY Status

Broadcast commands are commands sent to all cameras on the network at the same time.
After a broadcast command is sent, and before issuing the next command, each camera on
the link must be polled until a READY status is returned. A BUSY status indicates that the
camera is not ready to receive the next command.

To poll the status of a networked camera, send an empty network command to each
camera until they each return the READY reply.

Both the READY and BUSY reply consist of six characters: Carriage Return (CR), Line
Feed (LF), and the network ID of the queried camera, followed by a space and either the
BUSY code "0", or the READY code "1" and the prompt character ">".

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Example: query command followed by a BUSY reply

:a CR

<CR><LF>a 0>

Example: query command followed by a READY reply

:a CR

<CR><LF>a 1>

After all cameras return the READY status, use the gps to poll each camera for the return
codes of the sent broadcast command.

Note, the QUERY BUSY mode is active only after a broadcast command, normally the
camera does not support this mode of operation. The controlling software must wait for a
reply from the camera before sending the next command.

Camera will not reply to the Broadcast command.

To read the status of the last command executed (major error code + coded value of
informal messages) and coded value for all pending monitoring task warnings poll each
camera by using network version of the

gps command.

Example: reading status from camera ID "a"

:a gps

Enabling/Disabling Non-Command Messages in the
Network Environment

To enable/disable camera messages unrelated to the executed command, such as
initialization and monitoring task messages, use the command

Value Function

0 Enable messages, default

1 Disable messages

snm i.

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C5 Error Handling

Use the gps command to read the status of the last command executed. Return values
come in the following order:

• Decimal number representing the code of the last command.

• Decimal number representing the error code for last command executed.

• Decimal value representing sum of all informal message codes caused by last
command executed.

• Decimal number representing sum of all pending warning values from all monitoring
tasks.

Example: value returned following a ccf command

gps

2 0 192 33

The returned value, 2 0 192 33, reads as follows:

Returned value Description

2 Command code: correction_calibrate_fpn

0 Error code: successful

192 Informal message: code 64 + code 128

33 Monitoring task message: code 1 + code 32

The following tables list the codes for errors, informal messages, and monitoring task
messages. (Refer to section E7 for a list of all available commands.)

Error Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

0 Command executed successfully Command executed without major error

detected

1 Internal camera error (PIXEL

INDEX)

2 Internal camera error (RESULT

CODE)

3 Invalid command Command not recognized

4 Command parameters incorrect

or out of range

5 Command not available in

current exposure mode

6 Command available in

CALIBRATED mode only

7 Command available in

UNCALIBRATED mode only

8 Command not available in

VIDEO TEST mode

Internal software error trap

Internal software error trap

Command parameters are invalid or out of
range

ssf and set are allowed only in mode 2
(ssf and set) and in mode 6 (set)

ccf, ccp

cao, cag

sao, sg

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Error Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

9 Start value must be an odd

number less than the even
numbered end value

10 Camera memory check failure Memory test of external RAM failed

11 Unable to configure DSP DSP (FPGA) configuration failure

12 DSP configuration reset failure DSP (FPGA) could not be placed in

13 Get line process command timed

out, check for the presence of
external signals

14 DSP echo test error DISC bus communication test failure

15 Invalid sensor configuration

(DSP)

16 Invalid sensor configuration

(ADC)

17 Sensor configuration mismatch Sensor configuration read from DSP is

18 One (or more) of the supply

voltages is out of specification

19 The camera's temperature is

outside the specified operating
range

20 Not Used Not Used

21 Analog offset calibration failure Analog offset calibration failure (could not

22 Analog gain calibration failure Analog gain calibration failure (could not

23 CRC check failure while

attempting to restore the camera
settings

24 Camera settings not saved rus, rfs attempted but settings were not

25 Pixel coefficients write failure Failure while writing pixel coefficients to

26 I2C communication fault while

accessing temperature sensor

27 Timeout waiting for DISC SYNC

to go LOW

28 Unable to calibrate gain. Tap Analog gain could not be calibrated because

roi: invalid starting or ending pixel index

configuration mode
gl,gla,cao,cag,ccf,ccp timed out.

Current exposure mode requires external
SYNC, however SYNC signal not present

Invalid sensor configuration read from DSP
(FPGA)

Invalid sensor configuration encoding on
the board

different than one encoded on the board

vv command result

vt command result

tune the analog offset to obtain targeted
video level)

tune the analog gain to obtain targeted
video level)

Camera setting will initialize to default
settings, since restore of USER/FACTORY
settings failed (internal micro EE memory
failure). Contact your DALSA
representative or Product Support if this
error code is returned.

saved. Contact your DALSA representative
or Product Support if this error code is
returned.

EEROM (I2C EEROM external to micro)

Serial communication fault (I2C) while
accessing temperature sensor

Internal communication protocol error

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Error Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

number outside ROI. tap number specified in cag command is

outside region of interest.

29 Unable to calibrate offset. Tap

number outside ROI.

Analog offset could not be calibrated
because tap number specified in cao
command is outside region of interest.

Informal Message Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

1 INFO: CRC check failure while

attempting to restore
calibration status

2 INFO: CRC check failure while

attempting to restore pixel
coefficients

4 INFO: Flash memory ID error Reported from boot process, only if DSP

8 INFO: DSP configuration file

missing or corrupt

16 INFO: Serial communication

failure while accessing
external ADC chip

32 INFO: Calibration may be out-

of-specification (PRNU
coefficient clipped)

64 INFO: Calibration may be out-

of-specification (FPN
coefficient clipped)

128 INFO: Calibration may be out-

of-specification (DO+FPN >

511)

256 INFO: Changing analog

settings of calibration mode
voids pixel calibration

512 INFO: For better calibration

results, run FPN calibration
first

1024 INFO: Coefficient may be

inaccurate. A/D clipping has
occured.

Pixel calibration status will be set to NOT
CALIBRATED (internal micro EEROM
failure)

All pixel coefficients will be reset to zero
(external EEROM (I2C) failure)

configuration fails (possible cause:
communication error with serial flash
memory )

Reported from boot process, only if DSP
configuration fails (possible cause)

Reported from boot process if
communication verification fails with
external ADC chip (camera voltage
measurement, SPI)

ccp: several coefficients were clipped

during the ccp command process

ccf: several coefficients were clipped

during the ccf command process

ccf: at least one pixel -> digital offset +

FPN coefficient > 511

sao, sg in calibration mode after

calibration has been done

ccp: ccp called before ccf

Insufficient analog offset or too much gain
for given light.

Monitoring Task Message Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

1 WARNING: One or more At least one of voltages is out of

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Monitoring Task Message Codes

Code Description Suggested Cause

voltages out of specification specification

2 WARNING: Camera

temperature exceeds specified
limit

4 WARNING: External SYNC

not detected

8 WARNING: External PRIN

not detected

Current camera temperature exceeds
specification limit

Exposure Mode 3,4,5,6: external SYNC not
detected

Exposure Mode 2: external PRIN not
detected

16 WARNING: Analog gain is

over/under the specification

32 WARNING: Line rate is set

below 1000 Hz

Current analog gain setting is out of
specification

Exposure mode 2: current line rate is below
1Khz

C6 Camera Parameter Screen

You can read current camera settings with the gcp command. The table below lists the
settings displayed on the gcp screen with sample values, along with a description of some
of these settings:

GCP Screen Desctiption

GENERAL CAMERA SETTINGS

See the following section for
a complete command list.

Camera Model No.: P2-xx-xxxxx

Camera Serial No.: xxxxxxxxx

Sensor Serial No.: xxxxxxxxx

Camera Network ID: x

Network Message Mode: disabled

Camera model number.

Camera serial number.

Sensor serial number.

Camera network id set
with the sci command.

Displays whether network
messages are enabled or
disabled. Set with the snm
command. See C4
Networking Mode for
details.

Firmware Design Rev.: xx-xx-xxxxx-xx

DSP Design Rev.: xx.xx

SETTINGS FOR UNCALIBRATED MODE:

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Firmware design revision
number.

DSP design revision
number.

71 Piranha2 User’s Manual

GCP Screen Desctiption

Analog Gain (dB): +0.0 +0.0 +0.0 +0.0

Analog Offset: 308 324 304 292

SETTINGS FOR CALIBRATED MODE:

Analog Gain (dB): +0.0 +0.0 +0.0 +0.0

Analog Offset: 0 0 0 0

Digital Offset: 0 0 0 0

Calibration Status: FPN(uncalibrated)

PRNU(uncalibrated)

Analog gain value set with
the sg and cao commands.
Available only in
uncalibrated mode (svm

0).

See section 3.13 Setting
Gains for details.

Analog offset value set
with the sao and cag
command. The cag
command is available only
in uncalibrated mode (svm

1). See section 3.12
Optimizing Offset
Performance for details.

Analog gain value set with
the sg or ccp command.
The ccp command is
available only in calibrated
mode (svm 1). See sections

3.13 Setting Gains and
White Light Calibration
(page 37) for details.

Analog offset value set
with the sao or ccf
command. The ccf
command is available only
in calibrated mode (svm

1). See section 3.12
Optimizing Offset
Performance and Dark
Calibration (page 36) for
details.

Digital offset value set with
the sdo command.
Available only in calibrated
mode (svm 0). See section

3.12 Optimizing Offset
Performance for details.

Calibration status will
change to calibrated
after a ccf or ccp
command has been issued

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GCP Screen Desctiption

after a power up.
Calibration status will
return to uncalibrated
after camera reboot or a
rpc or svm 0 command
had been issued.

SETTINGS COMMON TO CALIBRATED AND UNCALIBRATED MODES:

System Gain: 0 0 0 0

Background Subtract: 0 0 0 0

Pretrigger: 0

Number of Line Samples: 64

Video Mode: 1

Data Mode: 0

Exposure Mode: 2

Digital gain value set with the
ssg command. See section 3.13
Setting Gains for details.

Background subtract value set
with the ssb command. See
section 3.12 Optimizing Offset
Performance for details.

Pretrigger value set with the sp
command. See section 3.20
Setting the Pre-trigger for
details.

Number of lines samples set
with the css command. See
section 3.11 Returning Video
Information for details.

Current video mode value set
with the svm command. See
section 3.8 Setting the Video
Mode for details.

Current data mode value set
with the sdm command. See
section 3.7 Setting the Data
Mode for details.

Current exposure mode value
set with the sem command. See
section 3.9 Setting Line Rate
and Exposure Mode for details.

SYNC Frequency: 5000 (4998.51)

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Hz

Current line rate. Value is set
with the ssf command. See

73 Piranha2 User’s Manual

GCP Screen Desctiption

section 3.9 Setting Line Rate
and Exposure Mode for details.

Exposure Time: 197.950 uSec

Current exposure time setting.
Value is set with the set
command. See section 3.9
Setting Line Rate and Exposure
Mode for details.

End-Of-Line Sequence: on

Upper Threshold: 240

Lower Threshold: 15

Region of Interest: 0001-4096

C7 Commands

The following table lists all of the commands available to the camera user. The first
column of the table lists command codes returned as first code from

States whether an end of line
sequence is turned on or off.
Set using the eol command.
See section 3.17 Generating Test
Patterns for details.

Upper threshold value set with
the sut command.

Lower threshold value set with
the slt command.

Region of interest size set with
the roi command. See section

3.10 Setting a Region of Interest
for details.

gps.

Code Command Short

Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

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0 calibrate_analog_gain

1 calibrate_analog_offset

Parameters Description

Form

cag t i

cao t i

Calibrates the analog gain. The
first parameter is the tap
selection 1 to 4, 0 for all taps.
The second parameter is a line
average in a range from 64 to
251DN for 8-bit mode and 256
to 1007DN for 10-bit. This
command requires a constant
light input and only works in
uncalibrated mode.

Calibrates the analog offset.
The first parameter is the tap
selection 1 to 4, 0 for all taps.
The second parameter is a line
average in a range from 1 to
100DN for 8-bit mode and 4 to

74 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

Code Command Short

Form

2 correction_calibrate_fpn

3 correction_calibrate_prnu

4 correction_set_sample

5 display_pixel_coeffs

6 endof_line_sequence

7 get_camera_id

ccf [i]

ccp [i]

css i

dpc [i] [i]

els i

gci

Parameters Description

400 for 10-bit. This command
only works in uncalibrated
mode.

Start FPN coefficient
calibration. Use css to set
sample size. Values range
from 1 to 100DN for 8-bit
mode and 4 to 400 for 10-bit.

Start PRNU coefficient
calibration. Use css to set
sample size. Values range
from 64 to 251DN for 8-bit
mode and 256 to 1007DN for
10-bit.

Set number of line samples
averaged for pixel coefficient
calculations or for output of
gla command. Values: 16, 32,

64. Factory setting: 64

Display the pixel coefficients
in the order FPN, PRNU, FPN,
PRNU, … Optional pixel start
and end values in a range from
1 to sensor pixel count.

Set the end-of-line sequence:

0: Off
1: On, default value

Read the camera ID.

8 get_camera_model

9 get_camera_parameters

10 get_camera_serial

11 get_camera_version

12 get_fpn_coeff

14 get_line

15 get_line_average

gcm

gcp

gcs

gcv

gfc i

gl [i] [i]

gla [i] [i]

Read the camera model
number.

Read camera parameters.

Read the camera serial
number.

Read the firmware version and
FPGA version.

Read the FPN coefficient.

Get a line of raw video (no
digital processing or test
pattern) displaying one pixel
value after another and the
minimum, maximum, and
mean value of the sampled
line. Optional pixel start and
end values in a range from 1 to
sensor pixel count.

Read the average of line
samples. Use css to set
sample size. Optional pixel

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Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

Code Command Short

Form

13 get_prnu_coeff

16 get_processing_status

17 get_sensor_serial

gpc i

gps

gss

Parameters Description

start and end values in a range
from 1 to sensor pixel count.

Read the PRNU coefficient.

Read the status of last
executed command and coded
value for all pending
monitoring task warnings.

Read the sensor serial number.

18 help

19 region_of_interest

20 reset_camera

21 reset_pixel_coeffs

22 restore_factory_settings

23 restore_user_settings

24 set_analog_offset

25 set_baud_rate

26 set_camera_id

h

roi i i

rc

rpc

rfs

rus

sao t i

sbr i

sci s [s]

Display the online help.

Set the pixel range for reading
end-of-line statistic and for the
region of pixels used in the

cag, cao, gl, gla, ccf, and
ccp commands. Pixel start and

end values in a range from 1 to
sensor pixel count.

Reset the entire camera
(reboot).

Reset the pixel coefficients to

0.

Restore the camera’s factory
settings. FPN and PRNU
coefficients reset to 0.

Restore the camera's last saved
user settings and FPN and
PRNU coefficients.

Set the analog offset. The first
parameter is the tap selection 1
to 4, 0 for all taps. The second
parameter controls the digital
analog convertor (DAC), in a
range from 0 to 1023, that sets
analog offset. Offset increases
with higher values.

Set speed of serial
communication port. Baud
rates: 9600, 19200, 57600, and

115200. Default baud: 9600

Set camera ID. The first
parameter is a character A to
Z, or 0 to 9. The second
optional parameter is the serial
number of the addressed
camera.

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76 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

Code Command Short

Form

27 set_data_mode

28 set_digital_offset

29 set_exposure_mode

30 set_exposure_time

31 set_fpn_coeff

32 set_gain

sdm i

sdo t i

sem i

set f

sfc i i

sg t f

Parameters Description

Set the data mode of camera
output to:

0: 8-bit, A/B/C/D ports, single

processor

1: 10-bit, A/B/C and D/E/F

ports, single processor

2: 8-bit, A/B and D/E ports,

dual processor

3: 10-bit, A/B/C and D/E/F

ports, dual processor

Subtracts the input value from
the video signal prior to the
PRNU correction. The first
parameter is the tap selection 1
to 4, 0 for all taps. The second
parameter is the offset in a
range from 0 to 511. Use in
calibrated mode only.

Set the exposure mode:
1: Internal SYNC and PRIN,

max line rate and exposure
time, factory setting

2: Internal SYNC and PRIN,

programmable line rate and
exposure time using
commands ssf and set

3: External SYNC, internal

PRIN, maximum exposure

time
4: Smart EXSYNC
5: External SYNC and PRIN
6: External SYNC, internal

PRIN, programmable

exposure time

Set the exposure time in
exposure mode 2 or 6. Value
will be a floating point number
in µsecs

Set the FPN coefficient. The
first parameter is the pixel
number within the range 1 to

8192. The second value is a
specified value within the
range 0 to 127.

Set the analog gain. The first
parameter is the tap selection 1
to 4, 0 for all taps. The second
parameter is a gain value
specified from –10 to 10. A

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77 Piranha2 User’s Manual

+

Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

Code Command Short

Form

33 set_lower_threshold

34 set_netmessage_mode

slt i

snm i

Parameters Description

gain value of 0 sets the camera
to its nominal gain.

Set the lower threshold to a
value from 0 to 255 for 8-bit
data modes, and 0 to 1023 for
10-bit.

Enable/disable camera
messages unrelated to the
executed network command:

0: Enable messages, default
1: Disable messages

35 set_pretrigger

36 set_prnu_coeff

37 set_subtract_background

38 set_sync_frequency

39 set_system_gain

40 set_upper_threshold

41 set_video_mode

42 verify_temperature

sp i

spc i i

ssb t i

ssf i

ssg t i

sut i

svm i

vt

Set the pretrigger to a value
from 0 or 15.

Set the PRNU coefficient. The
first parameter is the pixel
number within the range 1 to

8192. The second parameter is
a specified value within the
range 0 to 511where:

i

PixelPRNU

Subtracts the input value from
the output signal. The first
parameter is the tap selection 1
to 4, or 0 for all taps. The
second parameter is the
subtracted value range from 0
to 511.

Sets the line rate, in exposure
mode 2, to a value from
1000Hz to camera's maximum
line rate. Value rounded
up/down as required.

Set the digital gain. The first
parameter is the tap selection 1
to 4, or 0 for all taps. The
second parameter is a gain
value is specified from 0 to

511.

Set upper threshold to a value
from 0 to 255 in 8-bit data
modes, and 0 to 1023 in 10-bit.

Switch between calibrated and
uncalibrated modes:

0: Uncalibrated video,

deactivate video correction

1: Calibrated video, activated

correction

2: Test pattern

Check the internal

1

=

512

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78 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Parameters:

i = integer
f = float
t = tap selector
s = string
x1 = pixel start

number
x2= pixel end number
[]= optional
parameter

Code Command Short

Form

43 verify_voltage

44 warning_enable_disable

45 write_pixel_coeffs

46 write_user_settings

vv

wed [i] [i]

wpc

wus

Parameters Description

temperature of the camera.

Check the camera voltages and
return OK or fail.

Read enable/disable status of
all defined monitoring tasks.
Optionally, the first parameter
selects a monitoring task and
the second parameter
enables/disable the selected
task.

Write all current pixel
coefficients to EEROM.

Write all of the user settings to
EEROM except pixel
coefficients which are written
using the wpc command.

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Appendix D

DC Offset De-rating Curve

As of December 2004, all Piranha2 line scan cameras have been modified. This
modification has caused:

• The Charge Transfer Efficiency (CTE) of the sensor to be improved, and

• An increase in dark current at the minimum line rate and maximum gain.

This increased dark current is only an issue when the camera is using long integration
times, at the maximum gain setting, or at high ambient temperatures. Operating the
camera at high temperatures or at low line rates with maximum gain, impacts the
camera’s ability to perform offset calibration. Figure 12 illustrates camera operating
conditions and the associated limits for optimal offset calibration. The offset values
indicated are the values obtained after issuing the
command. The plot shows the DC offset over temperature at maximum gain with the
optimal offset calibration limit being represented by the Limit line. The area under the
Limit line shows the operating conditions where the camera’s offset can be calibrated to
camera specifications; the area above the Limit line shows the operating conditions where
the camera’s DC offset is greater than camera specifications. If you are operating the
camera in this range, you may want to reduce the effect of the increased dark current by:

cao 0 5 (calibrate analog offset)

• Adjusting the calibration target value higher to enable offset compensation to work.

For example,

• Adding cooling to reduce temperature. Refer to the Thermal Management section on

page 43 for more information.

• Operating the camera at higher line rate and averaging or discarding the extra lines

cao 0 30.

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80 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Figure 12: Worst Case Calibrated DC Offset vs. Temperature and Exposure Time

Worst case cal i br at ed DC offset VS temper at ure and exposure

time

80

70

60

50

40

30

DC Offset (DN)

20

10

0

15.5 27.5 36.5 45 56 65.5

Camera internal Temperature C

Notes:

• Camera ambient temperature is approximately 15°C less than the internal camera

temperature.

• Camera gain is 10dB

999 usec
900 usec
800 usec
700 usec
600 usec
500 usec
400 usec
Limit

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81 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Appendix E

Revision History

Revision
Number

00 Preliminary release

01 Updated pgs 9-10: Added sensor alignment specifications of x,y: ±175um, z:

02 1K, 2k, and 4K--2 tap Piranha2 cameras available.

03 Mostly minor text and spec changes, plus replacing Doody with Helmond on

04 Added note 4 on page 10.

05 Added P2x-xxx30 part number to front cover.

06 Updated drawing in section 2.2. LED was referenced to section D13 which no

Change Description

±0.18mm and ø: 0.6°. Changed FPN uncorrected: Max Gain 27DN. Changed
RMS Noise: typ. 1.2DN, max 4DN. Added Notes: All measurements taken in 8­bit output mode; All specifications are valid for the front plate temperature
range of 10°C to 50°C, in still air. Added Notes 4 and 5.

Page 25,26 Mechanicals drawings: Included specifications on the location of
pixel 1 with respect to edges of the front plate. On page 27 removed nominal
from C, F-Mount chart and replaced with ±0.18mm

EMC declaration

Added section 3.10, page 27, Setting a Region of Interest.
Added section 3.11, page 27, Returning Video Information.
Removed all references of the css command default being 128 and changed it to

64.
On page 31, Calibrating Gains, changed allowable ranges from 64 (was 128) to

251 and 256 (was 512) to 1007.
Added error message 28 and 29 on page 64. Removed error message 20.
Added informal message codes 32 and 64 on page 65.
Added section C6 Camera Parameter Screen on page 65.
In section C7, command table:
cag: range is now 64 (was 128) to 251 or 256 (was 512) to 1007
ccp: range is now 64 (was 128) to 251 or 256 (was 512) to 1007
css: 64 is now the factor setting. 128 was removed.
roi: explanation expanded to include the roi influence on the cag, cao, gl, gla,

ccf and ccp commands.

Added 30MHz info to section 1.1 Camera Highlights.
Added 30MHz specs to section 1.3 Camera Performance Specifications
Added Note 1 on page 10
Added table 5, page 20, 30MHz timing values
Added P2-2x-xxx30 to EMC Declaration of Conformity, page 61.

longer exists. It is now referenced to section 3.18.
In section 3.16, page 39, and Appendix B, All Available Commands table,

added equation for determining the PRNU coefficient for the spc command.

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82 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Revision

Change Description

Number

07 Added the following note (or similar) to these sections, "While settings are

being written to nonvolatile memory, do not power down camera or camera
memory may be corrupted."

1. Section 3.5, page 25, second bullet

2. Page 36, middle of page in calibration section

3. Section 3.18 in the LED description table, Blinking Green section

Added revision history.

08 Fixed incorrect ± character in mechanical drawings.

Updated Colorado Springs address
Added Appendix D: De-rating Curves
Removed maximum DC Offset specification from Specification table in Chapter

1 and added note 6 to refer to Appendix D for DC Offset de-rating curves.

09 Added 8k 30MHz model to:

Table 1: Operating Requirements and Ranges (max line rate)
Table 7: Piranha2 30MHz Timing

10 Added 4k, 10µm model to:

Section 1.2 Image Sensors [Figure 2: IT-P1 4k Image Sensor (2k, 4k (10 µm), 4
tap models) ]

Section 1.3 Camera Performance Specifications (power and power supply
current specs)

11 Added 2k, 4 tap model to:

Section 1.2 Image Sensors [Figure 2: IT-P1 4k Image Sensor (2k, 4k (10 µm), 4
tap models) ]

Section 1.3 Camera Performance Specifications (power and power supply
current, line rate specs)

Added Figure 1: IL-P1 Image Sensor (1k, 2k, 4k (10 µm), 2 tap models) to
Chapter 4, Mechanical Interface

Updated z tolerance from .18mm to .25mm in table 1 and Lens Mount table
(page 47).

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83 Piranha2 User’s Manual

Index

Data Bus, 17

3

30MHz model, 5, 9

data mode, 26
debugging, 18, 39, 53
digital data, 17

4

40MHz model, 5, 9

A

about DALSA, 2
applications, 6

B

baud rate, 26
bright lines, 56

C

cables, 16
calibrating the camera, 35
calibration

dark, 36
errors, 38
overview, 35
results, 38
steps, 36
time, 36

white light, 37
camera controls, 15, 60
Camera Link, 59
command reference, 63
commands

descriptions, 72

long form, 24

parameters, 24

short form, 24
communications protocol, 63
connector

Camera Link, 14

MDR26, 14

power, 14
cooling, 43

D

dark calibration, 36
dark current, 44
dark patches, 56

E

EIA-644 Reference, 59
EMC compliance, 49
EMC Declaration of

Conformity, 61

end of line sequence, 18

generating, 39

environmental considerations,

43
error handling, 67
error messages, 40
exposure mode

setting, 27
exposure time, 27, 29
EXRCLK, 16
EXSYNC, 17

setting, 21, 27, 72

troubleshooting, 53

F

fiber-optic light sources, 48
filters, 48
FPN, 36, 38

G

gain

analog, 34

calibrating, 34

digital, 34

setting, 34

H

halogen light sources, 48
help, 23
hot mirror, 48

I

illumination, 47
IL-P1 image sensor, 7
incorrect line rate, 56
input/output, 13

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84 Piranha2 User’s Manual

inputs

Camera Link, 16
exteranl sync, 17
PRIN, 16

interface

mechanical, 43
optical, 47
serial, 23
software, 23

IT-P1 image sensor, 7

L

LED, 40
lens

modeling, 48

mounts, 47
light sources, 48
line dropout, 56
line rate, 21, 27, 28, 72

setting, 21, 27, 72
line statistics, 29
LVDS, 59

M

magnification, 49
mechanical interface, 43, 47
mode

data, 26

exposure, 27

networking, 64

video, 27
model

30MHz, 5, 9

40MHz, 5, 9
modes

exposure, 27

operating, 27
monitoring tasks, 40
mounting, 43

operational status of camera,

40
optical interface, 47
output mode, 26

P

performance, 8
pixel statistics, 29
power supplies, 16
pretrigger, 41
PRIN, 16
PRNU, 37, 39

R

rebooting, 41
region of interest, 29
responsivity graph, 11
roi. See Region of Interest

S

sensor, 7

alignment, 47

cleaning, 51
serial interface, 23
settings

gain, 34

offset, 31

pretrigger, 41

restoring, 25

saving, 25
specifications

electro-optic, 10

performance, 8
startup, 25
statistics, 29

STROBE

troubleshooting, 54
stuck bits, 56

N

network commands, 65
networking, 64
noisy output, 56

O

offset

analog, 32
calibrating, 33
optimizing, 31, 70, 71

subtracting, 32
online help, 23
operating requirements, 8

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T

Technical Sales Support, 58
temperature, 43

measurement, 41
recommendations, 40

test patterns, 18

generating, 39, 54

timing

fixed (programmed), 19
input and output, 19

troubleshooting, 53

85 Piranha2 User’s Manual

V

video data, 30, 59
voltage

measurement, 41

W

warning messages, 40
white light calibration, 37

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