Dalsa PC-30-02K80, PC-30-02K60, PC-30-04K60, PC-30-04K80 User Manual

Piranha Color

Trilinear Camera

PC-30-02K80
PC-30-02K60
PC-30-04K80
PC-30-04K60

Camera User’s Manual

03-032-10211-01

9-May-07

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 2

© 2007 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
semiconductor products and services. DALSA’s core competencies are in specialized integrated circuit
and electronics technology, software, and highly engineered semiconductor wafer processing.
Products and services include image sensor components; electronic digital cameras; vision processors;
image processing software; and semiconductor wafer foundry services for use in MEMS, high-voltage
semiconductors, image sensors and mixed-signal CMOS chips. DALSA is listed on the Toronto Stock
Exchange under the symbol “DSA”. The Company has its corporate offices in Waterloo, ON and
over 1000 employees world-wide.
For further information not included in this manual, or for information on DALSA’s extensive line of
image sensing products, please call:

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]

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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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 3

Contents

1.0 Introduction 7

1.1 Camera Performance Specifications 8

2k Model ................................................................................................................................8

4k Model ................................................................................................................................10

1.2 Image Sensor 12

1.3 Responsivity 13

2.1 Installation Overview 15

2.2 Input/Output Connectors and LED 15

2.3 Camera LED 16

2.4 Power Connector 16

2.5 Camera Link Data Connector 17

Input Signals, Camera Link......................................................................................................17

Output Signals, Camera Link ...................................................................................................17

2.6 Camera Timing 18

Base Configuration..................................................................................................................18

Base Configuration Timing ......................................................................................................19

Medium Configuration............................................................................................................. 20

Using ASCII Commands.......................................................................................................... 23

Command Format...................................................................................................................23

3.1 First Power Up Camera Settings 24

3.2 Rebooting the Camera 24

3.3 Baud Rate 24

3.4 Select Cable 24

3.5 Help 25

3.6 Sensor Output 27

Color Scan Direction ............................................................................................................... 27

Sensor Readout Direction (Mirroring Mode).............................................................................27

3.7 Data Output 28

Setting the Camera Link Mode.................................................................................................28

Setting the Camera’s Pixel Rate (Throughput) ..........................................................................28

3.8 Set Color Correction 28

3.9 Camera Selection Variables 29

3.10 Exposure Control 31

Overview ................................................................................................................................31

Setting the Exposure Mode......................................................................................................31

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 4

Exposure Modes in Detail........................................................................................................32

3.11 Spatial Correction 34

Setting the Line Delay between Colors .....................................................................................36

3.12 Averaging Horizontal Pixels 36

Setting the Averaging Horizontal ..............................................................................................36

3.13 Processing Chain Overview and Description 37

Analog Processing..................................................................................................................37

Digital Processing...................................................................................................................37

The Effects of the Processing Chain on Calibration...................................................................38

3.14 Analog Gain and Analog Offset 39

Setting Analog Gain.................................................................................................................39

Calibrating Camera Gain..........................................................................................................40

Setting Analog Offset ..............................................................................................................41

3.15 Flat Field Correction 42

Flat Field Correction Overview..................................................................................................42

Flat Field Correction Restrictions .............................................................................................43

FPN Measurement ..................................................................................................................44

3.16 Digital Gain and Background Subtract 49

3.17 Look-Up Tables 50

3.18 Saving, Loading and Restoring Settings 52

Saving and Restoring Settings.................................................................................................52

Writing and Loading Setting to Non-Volatile Memory................................................................53

3.19 Diagnostics 58

End-of-line Sequence.............................................................................................................. 58

Setting Thresholds..................................................................................................................59

Returning Video Information....................................................................................................61

Setting the Number of Lines to Sample..........................................................................................................62

Temperature Measurement......................................................................................................62

Voltage Measurement .............................................................................................................62

Camera Frequency Measurement ............................................................................................63

Returning the LED Status ........................................................................................................63

Returning Camera Settings......................................................................................................63

4.1 Mechanical Interface 69

4.1 Optical Interface 70

5.1 Electrostatic Discharge and the CCD Sensor 73

5.2 Protecting Against Dust, Oil and Scratches 73

5.3 Cleaning the Sensor Window 74

6.1 Troubleshooting 75

6.2 Specific Solutions .............................................................................................................76

6.3 Product Support................................................................................................................78

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 5

Appendix A: ASCII Command Reference 79

ASCII Commands: Reference ..................................................................................................79

A5 Error Handling ...................................................................................................................86

Appendix B: Blue Correction Command 89

Enabling blue correction.................................................................................................................................89

Appendix C: EMC Declaration of Conformity 91
Appendix D: Revision History 93
Index 95

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 6

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 7

1

1

Features and Specifications

1.0 Introduction

Camera Features

 2048 or 4096 trilinear RGB line scan sensor
 Color spacing: 3 lines, center to center
 Forward and reverse scanning operation
 Maximum line rates of 22 kHz (2k60) and 32 kHz (2k80), or 12 kHz (4k60) and 17 kHz

(4k80).

 Programmable analog gain and offset
 FPN and PRNU correction
 White balancing algorithms
 Optional luminance output
 Spatial correction
 Anti-blooming
 Configurable Base or Medium Camera Link

Applications

 100% print inspection
 Electronics manufacturing inspection
 Postal/parcel sorting
 High performance document scanning/image lift
 Narrow and large web inspection
 High-end industrial inspection

Models

 PC-30-02k60: 2k resolution, 3 taps at 60 MHz
 PC-30-04k60: 4k resolution, 3 taps at 60 MHz
 PC-30-02k80: 2k resolution, 3 taps at 80 MHz
 PC-30-04k80: 4k resolution, 3 taps at 80 MHz

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 8

1.1 Camera Performance Specifications

2k Model

Test conditions unless otherwise noted:

 Pixel Rate: 80 MHz (2k80), 60 MHz (2k60).
 Line Rate: 7.5 kHz.
 Exposure Time: Red = 50 µs, Green = 30 µs, Blue = 60 µs.
 Light Source: Broadband Quartz Halogen, BG-38, with 750 nm cutoff filter

installed, Correction Color Temperature = 5300ºK.

 ECE Exposure Control Enabled.
 Ambient test temperature 25 °C.
 Ouput 3220 DN includes 180 DN dark offset. (Range of 0 DN to 4095 DN.)
 All numbers referenced to 12 (0 to 4095 DN) bits unless otherwise specified.
 Specifications are only valid when line rates greater than 1.0 kHz and input voltage

is between +12 V and +15 V.

 The responsivity of each color is adjusted to achieve equal output.
 CLM 16.

Table 1: 2k Model Performance Specifications

Sensor Features Units Value Notes

Imager Format Trilinear CCD

Resolution pixels 2048

Pixel Fill Factor % 100

Pixel Size μm 14 x 14

Antiblooming 10x

Operating Ranges Units Notes

Minimum Line Rate kHz 3.0 Operable to 1 Hz

from external

Maximum Line Rate kHz 22.7 (2k60) or 32.3 (2k80)

Pixel RGB Throughput Mps up to 80

Gain dB -10 to +10

Operating
Specifications

Responsivity DN/

Dynamic
Range

Random
Noise

DC Offset DN 144 180 216 90 180 270 90 180 360

FPN ECD DN pk to 14 43

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

Unit

(nJ/cm2)

700 250 70

DN rms 5 14 45

-10 dB 0 dB +10 dB

Min Typ Max Min Typ Max Min Typ Max

133 422 1333

Notes

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 9

Operating
Specifications

FPN ECE
(FFC

disabled)

FPN (FCC
enabled)

PRNU ECD
pix to pix

PRNU ECE
pix to pix

PRNU ECE DN

PRNU (FCC
enabled)

ECD
ECE

NEE (RGB) pJ/cm2

SEE nJ/cm2

Unit

pk

DN pk to
pk

pk to pk 9

DN rms 350 350

DN rms 20 350 350 724

pk to pk

pk to pk

DN rms
DN rms

-10 dB 0 dB +10 dB

Min Typ Max Min Typ Max Min Typ Max

4 14 12 43 35 137

180 608 608 854

61

Notes

Optical Interface Units Value Notes

Back Focal Distance
M72 Mount

Sensor Alignment
x
y
z
0z

Lens Mount M72 x 0.75

mm 19.56 (M72 x 0.75)

μm

μm
μm

°

± 50
± 50
± 250

Mechanical Interface Units Value Notes

Camera Size mm (l x h x w) 67 x 105 x 76

Mass g 450

Connectors
power connector
data connector

Electrical Interface Units Notes

Input Voltage Volts +12 to +15

Power Dissipation W 12

Operating
Temperature (front
plate)

Data Output Format Bits 8 or 12

°C 0 to 50

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 10

Output Data
Configuration

3 taps 8 bit

3 taps 12 bit
6 taps 8 bit

4k Model

Test conditions unless otherwise noted:

 Pixel Rate: 80 MHz (4k80), 60 (4k60)
 Line Rate: 3.75 kHz
 Light Source: Broadband Quartz Halogen, BG-38, with 750 nm cutoff filter

installed, Correction Color Temperature = 5300ºK.

 Ambient test temperature 25 °C
 All numbers referenced to 8 bits unless otherwise specified
 Specifications are only valid when line rates greater than 2.5 kHz and input voltage

is between +12 V and +15 V.

Table 2: 4k Model Performance Specifications

Sensor Features Units Value Notes

Imager Format Trilinear CCD

Resolution pixels 4096

Pixel Fill Factor % 100

Pixel Size μm 10 x 10

Antiblooming 100x

Operating Ranges Units Notes

Minimum Line Rate kHz 3.0 Operable to 1 Hz

Maximum Line Rate kHz 12.1 (4k60) or 17.6 (4k80)

Pixel RGB Throughput Mps up to 80

Gain dB -10 to +10

Operating
Specification

Responsivity
(8 bit)

Responsivity
(12 bit)

Dynamic
Range

Random
Noise

rms

DC Offset DN 144 180 216 90 180 270 90 180 360

FPN ECD DN

FPN ECE DN

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

Unit

DN/
(nJ/cm2)

DN/
(nJ/cm2)

700 250 70

DN 5 8 14 25 45 80

pk to pk

pk to pk

-10 dB 0 dB +10 dB

Min Typ Max Min Typ Max Min Typ Max

4 13 42

67 211 667

27 87

4 27 12 87 35 275

Notes

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 11

854

Notes

Operating
Specification

FPN (FCC
disabled)

PRNU ECD DN

PRNU ECE DN rms

PRNU DN

PRNU
Corrected

ECD
ECE

NEE pJ/cm2

SEE nJ/cm2

Unit

DN
pk to pk

pix to pix

pix to pix

pk to pk

DN
DN

-10 dB 0 dB +10 dB

Min Typ Max Min Typ Max Min Typ Max

1 18

350 350

20 350 350 725

180

608
608

608
608

Optical Interface Units Value Notes

Back Focal Distance
M72 Mount

Sensor Alignment
x
y
z
0z

Lens Mount

mm

μm
μm
μm

°

91.56 (M72 x 0.75)

±50
±50
±250

Mechanical Interface Units Value Notes

Camera Size mm (l x h x w) 67 x 105 x 76

Mass g

Connectors
power connector
data connector

Electrical Interface Units Notes

Input Voltage Volts +12 to +15

Power Dissipation W 12

Operating
Temperature (front
plate)

Data Output Format Bits

Output Data
Configuration

°C 0 to 50

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 12

R

T

1.2 Image Sensor

The Piranha Color camera uses a trilinear CCD sensor with three lines of pixels: one
blue, one red and one green. Depending on your camera model, each line contains
either 2048 or 4096 pixels. As illustrated in the diagram below, the blue line has 2
outputs (taps), and the red and green lines have 4 outputs.

Figure 1: Sensor Block Diagram

Green Tap 1

Red Tap 1

30 µm (4k)
42 µm (2k)

30 µm (4k)
42 µm (2k)

Blue Tap 1

Blue Tap
1

Green Tap
1

1

Green Tap 2

Red Tap 2

ed Tap

2048 or 4096 pixels

Green Tap 3

Red Tap 3

he three color lines are

separated

30 µm (4k) or 42 µm (2k) apart

Red Tap 2

center to
center.

Green Tap 2

Blue Tap 2

Green Tap 4

Red Tap 4

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 13

}

1.3 Responsivity

60

Blue

50

40

30

20

Responsivit y { V/ ( uj / cm 2)

10

Green
Red

0

400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100

Wavelengt h ( nm)

2K sensor spectral responsivity

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 14

}

60

Blue

50

40

30

20

Green
Red

Responsivit y { V/ ( uj / cm 2)

10

0

400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100

Wavelengt h ( nm)

4K sensor spectral responsivity

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 15

2

2

Hardware Interface: Connectors
and Timing

2.1 Installation Overview

When installing your camera, you should take these steps:

1. Power down all equipment.

2. Following the manufacture’s instructions, install the frame grabber (if applicable).

Be sure to observe all static precautions.

3. Install any necessary imaging software.

4. Before connecting power to the camera, test all power supplies. Ensure that all the

correct voltages are present at the camera end of the power cable. Power supplies
must meet the requirements defined in section 2.2.2 Power Connector.

5. Inspect all cables and connectors prior to installation. Do not use damaged cables

or connectors or the camera may be damaged.

6. Connect Camera Link and power cables.

7. After connecting cables, apply power to the camera.

8. Check the diagnostic LED. See the LED Status Indicator section below for an

LED description.

9. The camera powers on with a baud rate of 9600.

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

2.2 Input/Output Connectors and LED

The camera uses:

 An LED to display the camera's status.
 High-density 26-pin MDR26 connectors for Camera Link control signals, data

signals, and serial communications. Refer to section 2.2.3 Camera Link Data
Connector for details.

 One 6-pin Hirose connector for power. Refer to section 2.2.2 Power Connector for

details.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 16

Camera Link Connector

Camera Link Connector

Power Connector

Note: Refer to the following sections for details on equipment recommendations and
camera connector information.

2.3 Camera LED

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

When more than one condition is active, the LED indicates the condition with the
highest priority. The fatal error state is accompanied by corresponding messages further
describing the problem.

Table 3: Diagnostic LED

Priority Color of Status LED Meaning

1 Flashing Red Fatal Error. For example, camera temperature is too

high and camera thermal shutdown has occurred.

2 Flashing Green Camera initialization or executing a long command

(e.g., flat field correction commands ccp or ccf).
During this state, any other sent command is ignored.

3 Solid Green Camera is operational and functioning correctly and

ready to receive commands.

2.4 Power Connector

Figure 2: Hirose 6-pin Circular Male—Power Connector

H irose 6-pin Circular Male

1

2

3

Mating Part: HIROSE

HR10A-7P-6S

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

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

!

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

 Ensure +12V to +15V at the camera power input (after the voltage drop across the

power cable. This may mean that the power supply will have to provide a voltage

6

5

4

Pin Description Pin Description

1 Min +12 to Max +15V 4 GND
2 Min +12 to Max +15V 5 GND
3 Min +12 to Max +15V 6 GND

Table 4: Hirose Pin Description

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 17

greater than the required camera voltage. For example, to achieve +12V at the
camera, the power supply may need to be +12.5V or greater.

 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.
 Use high-quality linear supplies to minimize noise.
 Use an isolated type power supply to prevent LVDS common mode range

violation.

Note: Camera performance specifications are not guaranteed if your power supply

does not meet these requirements.

2.5 Camera Link Data Connector

Figure 3: Camera Link MDR26 Connector

MDR26 Female

13

1

i

IMPORTANT:

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

26

Mating Part

Cable:

: 3M 334-31 series

3M 14X26-SZLB-XXX-0LC

14

**

Input Signals, Camera Link

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

The camera ships in internal sync, internal programmed integration (exposure mode 2).

EXSYNC (Triggers Line Readout)

Line rate can be set internally using the serial interface. The external control signal
EXSYNC is optional and enabled through the serial interface. This camera uses the
falling edge of EXSYNC to trigger pixel readout.

Direction Control

You control the CCD shift direction through the serial interface. With the software
command,
or via the Camera Link control signal on CC3.

scd, you determine whether the direction control is set via software control

Output Signals, 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

http://vfm.dalsa.com/, for the standard location of these signals.

Clocking Signal Indicates

LVAL (high) Outputting valid line
DVAL (high) Valid data (unused, tied high)
STROBE (rising edge) Valid data
FVAL (high) Outputting valid frame (unused, tied high)

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 18

 The camera internally digitizes 12 bits and outputs the 8 MSB or all 12 bits

depending on the camera’s Camera Link operating mode.

2.6 Camera Timing

The Piranha Color camera uses a Base or Medium Camera Link interface.

Base Configuration

A Base Configuration uses 1 MDR26 connector and 1 Channel Link chip. The main
characteristics of the Base Configuration are:

 Ports supported: A, B, C
 Serializer bit width: 28
 Number of chips: 1
 Number of MDR26 connectors: 1

Base Configuration
One Channel Link Chip + Camera Control + Serial

Communication
Camera

Connector

1 1 inner shield
14 14 inner shield
2 25 X0­15 12 X0+
3 24 X1­16 11 X1+
4 23 X2­17 10 X2+
5 22 Xclk­18 9 Xclk+
6 21 X3­19 8 X3+
7 20 SerTC+
20 7 SerTC­8 19 SerTFG­21 6 SerTFG+
9 18 CC1­22 5 CC1+
10 17 CC2+
23 4 CC2­11 16 CC3­24 3 CC3+
12 15 CC4+
25 2 CC4­13 13 inner shield
26 26 inner shield

Right Angle
Frame Grabber

Channel Link
Signal

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 19

Base Configuration Timing

Each pixel output has 8 bits for each of the three colors (red, green, and blue)

Table 5: Base Configuration Video Data

Base Configuration
Connector 1 Maximum SSF8
CLM1 Bits2 Taps3 Lum4 Time5 Port6 A Port B Port C SOT7 2k60 4k60 2k80 4k80

G

0-7

T0 R
T1 G
T0 R
T

G

1

B

0-7

Y

0-7

B

0-7

Y

0-7

B

0-7

− 9 8 3 Yes

0-7

−

7-0

8-11R8-11

8-11G8-11

0-7

B

0-7

Y

0-7

Notes:

1. CLM: Camera Link Mode

2. Bits: Number of bits per pixel

3. Taps: Number of camera link taps per color

4. Luminance: Indicates whether a fourth tap constructed from the RGB using SCC

command is output

5. Time: Time multiplex interval

6. Port : Camera Link port

7. SOT: Output throughput [mega-pixels / second / color]

8. Maximum SSF: Maximum line rate [kHz] possible in this mode (may be reduced by

SAH, ELS and SRM)

Figure 4: Base Configuration

40 19.0 9.7 19.0 9.7 5 8 3 No − R
80 22.7 12.0 32.4 17.7
40 19.0 9.7 19.0 9.7

10 12 3 Yes

40 19.0 9.7 19.0 9.7

Line and Data Valid

EXSYNC

Pixel Clock
40 or 80MHz

RED Data

GREEN Data

BLUE Data

Data = 8 -bits/color/pixel

n = Number of pixels per line (2048 or 4096)

TBD

R1

G1

G2

B1

B2 B3

R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7

B5

G3 G4 G5 G6 G7

B4

B6

Rn

Gn 4

B7

Bn 4

4

Rn

Gn 3

Bn 3

3

Rn 2

Gn 2

Bn 2

Rn 1

Gn 1

Bn 1 Bn

Rn

Gn

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 20

Medium Configuration

A Medium Configuration uses 2 MDR26 connectors and 2 Channel Link chips. The
main characteristics of the Base Configuration are:

 Ports supported: A, B, C, D, E, F
 Serializer bit width: 28
 Number of chips: 2
 Number of MDR26 connectors: 2

Medium Configuration (Connector 2)
2 Channel Link Chips
Camera

Connector

1 1 inner shield Inner Shield
14 14 inner shield Inner Shield
2 25 Y0- PAIR1­15 12 Y0+ PAIR1+
3 24 Y1- PAIR2­16 11 Y1+ PAIR2+
4 23 Y2- PAIR3­17 10 Y2+ PAIR3+
5 22 Yclk- PAIR4­18 9 Yclk+ PAIR4+
6 21 Y3- PAIR5­19 8 Y3+ PAIR5+
7 20 terminated PAIR6+
20 7 terminated PAIR6­8 19 Z0- PAIR7­21 6 Z0+ PAIR7+
9 18 Z1- PAIR8­22 5 Z1+ PAIR8+
10 17 Z2- PAIR9+
23 4 Z2+ PAIR9­11 16 Zclk- PAIR10­24 3 Zclk+ PAIR10+
12 15 Z3- PAIR11+
25 2 Z3+ PAIR11­13 13 inner shield Inner Shield
26 26 inner shield Inner Shield

Right Angle
Frame Grabber

Channel Link
Signal

Cable Name

Notes:

*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.
Unused pairs should be terminated in 100 ohms at both ends of the cable.
Inner shield is connected to signal ground inside camera

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 21

Medium Configuration Timing

Medium Configuration
Connector 1 Connector 2 Maximum SSF8 kHz
CLM1 Bits2 Taps3 Lum4 Port6 A Port B Port C Port D Port E Port F SOT7 2k60 4k60 2k80 4k80

14 8 6 No R

15 8 3 Yes R

16 12 3 Yes R

Notes:

1. CLM:Camera Link Mode

2. Bits: Number of bits per pixel

3. Taps: Number of camera link taps per color

4. Luminance: Indicates whether a fourth tap constructed from the RGB using SCC

5. Time: Time multiplex interval

6. Port : Camera Link port

7. SOT: Output throughput [mega-pixels / second / color]

8. Maximum SSF: Maximum line rate [kHz] possible in this mode (may be reduced by

A

G

0-7

G

0-7

0-7

command is output

SAH, ELS and SRM)

A

0-7

B

8-11

R

8-11

B

0-7

B

A

0-7

Y

0-7

B

Y

0-7

B

R

G

0-7

− −

0-7

G

0-7

B

0-7

0-7

B

B

80 22.7 12.0 32.4 17.7

0-7

40 19.0 9.7 19.0 9.7

80 22.7 12.0 32.4 17.7
Y
G

40 19.0 9.7 19.0 9.7

8-11

80 22.7 12.0 32.4 17.7

8-11

CLM 14 Pixels are Interleaved
Port Sequence 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

A RedA R1 R3 R5 R7 R9 R11 R13 R15 R17 R19
B GreenA G1 G3 G5 G7 G9 G11 G13 G15 G17 G19
C BlueA B1 B3 B5 B7 B9 B11 B13 B15 B17 B19
D RedB R2 R4 R6 R8 R10 R12 R14 R16 R18 R20
E GreenB G2 G4 G6 G8 G10 G12 G14 G16 G18 G20
F BlueB B2 B4 B6 B8 B10 B12 B14 B16 B18 B20

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 22

EXSYNC

Line and Data Valid

Pixel Clock
40MHz

RED Data 1

GREEN Data 1

BLUE Data 1

RED Data 2

GREEN Data 2

Figure 5: Medium Configuration (8 Bits/Color/Pixel)

TBD

R3

R1

G1

G3

B3

B1

R4

R2

G2

G4

B2

R5

R7

R9

G5

G7

B7

B5

R6

R8 R10 R12

G6 G8

B8

R11

G9

G11

B11

B9

G10 G12

B10

B12

R13

G13

B13

R14

G14

B14

Rn

1

Rn

3

Rn

Rn 5

- 7

Rn

Gn

1

-

Gn

Gn 3

7

Gn 5

Gn

Bn

7

Bn

Rn

8

Rn

8

Gn

Bn 6

Bn

8B4 B6

Bn

3

Bn

5

Rn

4

Rn

6

Gn

4

Gn

6Gn

Bn 2

Bn 4

1

Bn

Rn

2

2

Gn

Bn

Figure 6: Medium Configuration (12 Bits/Color/Pixel)

EXSYNC

Line and Data Valid

Pixel Clo c k
40 or 80MHz

RED Data

GREEN Data

BLUE Data

n = Number of pixels per line (2048 or 4096)

TBD

R1

G1

G2

B2 B3

B1

R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7

B5

G3 G4 G5 G6 G7

B4

B6

Rn 4

Gn 4

B7

Rn 3

Gn

Bn 3Bn 4

3

Rn 2

Gn 2

Bn 2

Rn 1

Gn 1

Bn 1 Bn

Rn

Gn

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 23

3

3

Software Interface: Configuring
the Camera

Using ASCII Commands

All of the camera’s functionality is configurable through its serial interface using the
three letter commands. You can use any terminal program (e.g. HyperTerminal) to send
serial commands to the camera, however, you must comply with following serial
protocol:

 8 data bits
 1 stop bit
 No parity
 No flow control
 9.6kbps (at power up)
 Camera does not echo characters

Command Format

When entering commands, remember that:

 A carriage return <CR> ends each command.
 The camera will answer each command with either <CR><LF> OK > or

<CR><LF>Error xx: Error Message > or Warning xx: Warning
Message. The > character is always the last character sent by the camera.

 The following parameter conventions are used in the manual:

i = integer value
f = real number
m = member of a set
s = string
t = tap id
x = pixel column number
y = pixel row number

Example: to return the current camera settings

gcp <CR>

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 24

3.1 First Power Up Camera Settings

When the camera is powered up for the first time, it operates using the following factory
settings:

 Internal forward color scanning direction
 Maximum line rate: 32 kHz (2k) or 17 kHz (4k)
 0dB calibrated analog gain and offset.
 Factory calibrated FPN and PRNU coefficients enabled.
 8 bit output
 9600 baud rate
 Exposure mode 2: Internal sync and exposure control.
 RGB color selection
 Camera Link mode 5: Base configuration, RGB, 8 bit output.

Note: The FPN and PRNU coefficients are factory calibrated at a TBD kHz line rate
and 0dB gain setting 0.

3.2 Rebooting the Camera

The command rc reboots the camera. The camera starts up with the last saved settings
and the baud rate used before reboot. Previously saved pixel coefficients are also
restored.

3.3 Baud Rate

Purpose: Sets the speed in bps of the serial communication port.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements: m

Notes: Power-on rate is always 9600 baud.

Example:

sbr m

Baud rate. Available baud rates are: 9600 (Default), 19200,
57600, and 115200.

The rc (reset camera) command will not reset the camera to the
power-on baud rate and will reboot using the last used baud rate.

sbr 57600

3.4 Select Cable

Purpose: Sets the cable parameters.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements: m

Notes: In medium configuration, both cables must be the same length.

scb m

Output compare value. Available values are: 0 to 255.

Only one copy of this setting is saved in the camera (rather than
with each setting).
On the
be set to the factory default of 100.
The cable parameter is a relational value. Increase the value for
longer cables, and decrease it for shorter ones.
Adjust the value until the test pattern (SVM 1) is clean.

lfs (load factory settings) command the cable length will

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 25

Example:

scb 75

3.5 Help

For quick help, the camera can return all available commands and parameters through
the serial interface.

There are two different help screens available. One lists all of the available commands to
configure camera operation. The other help screen lists all of the commands available
for retrieving camera parameters (these are called “get” commands).

To view the help screen listing all of the camera configuration commands, use the
command:

Syntax:

To view a help screen listing all of the “get” commands, use the command:

Syntax:
Notes: For more information on the camera’s “get” commands, refer to

The camera configuration command help screen lists all commands available. Parameter
ranges displayed are the extreme ranges available. Depending on the current camera
operating conditions, you may not be able to obtain these values. If this occurs, values
are clipped and the camera returns a warning message.

h

gh

section

Returning Camera Settings.

Some commands may not be available in your current operating mode. The help screen
displays NA in this case.

The following help screen listing are for a 2k camera:

ccf correction calibrate fpn
ccg calibrate camera gain iti 1-4:0-0:1024-4055
ccp correction calibrate prnu
cil calibrate input lut
clm camera link mode m 5/9/10/14/15/16/
cpa calibrate PRNU algorithm mi 1/2/3/4/:1024-4055
css correction set sample m 1024/2048/4096/
dil display input lut taa 0-0:0-1023:0-1023
dpc display pixel coeffs xx 1-2048:1-2048
ebc enable blue correction i 0-1
eil enable input lut i 0-1
els end of line sequence i 0-2
epc enable pixel coefficients ii 0-1:0-1
gcl get command log
gcm get camera model
gcp get camera parameters
gcs get camera serial
gcv get camera version
get get values s
gfc get fpn coeff x NA
gh get help
gil get input lut ta NA
gl get line xx 1-2048:1-2048
gla get line average xx 1-2048:1-2048
gpc get prnu coeff x NA

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 26

gsf get signal frequency i 1-4
h help
lfc load fpn coefficients
lfs load factory settings
lil load input lut
lpc load prnu coefficients
lus load user settings
rc reset camera
ril reset input lut
roi region of interest xx 1-2048:1-2048
rpc reset pixel coeffs
sab set add background ti 0-0:0-4095
sag set analog gain tf 0-0:-10.0-+10.0
sah set averaging horizontal i 1-2
sao set analog offset ti 0-0:0-255
sbr set baud rate m 9600/19200/57600/
115200/
scb select cable i 0-255
scc set colour correction iiii 0-+4095:-8192­ +8191:-8192-+8191:

-8192-+8191
scd set ccd direction i 0-2
scl set colour m rgb/r/g/b/
sdo set digital offset ti 0-0:0-4095
sem set exposure mode m 2/3/4/5/6/7/
sem set exposure mode m 2/3/4/5/6/7/
sfc set fpn coeff xi NA
sfr set fpn range xxi NA
sil set input lut tai NA
slt set lower threshold i 0-4095
smm set mirroring mode i 0-1
sot set output throughput m 30/40/60/80/
spc set prnu coeff xi NA
spr set prnu range xxi NA
srm set readout mode i 0-2
ssa set spatial alignment i 0-6
ssb set subtract background ti 0-0:0-4095
ssf set sync frequency f 1-32362
ssg set system gain ti 0-0:0-65535
ssn set set number i 0-5
sut set upper threshold i 0-4095
svm set video mode i 0-10
ugr update gain reference
vt verify temperature
vv verify voltage
wfc write FPN coefficients
wil write input lut
wpc write PRNU coefficients
wus write user settings

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 27

3.6 Sensor Output

Color Scan Direction

Purpose: Selects the forward or reverse color scan direction or external

direction control. This accommodates object direction change

on a web and allows you to mount the camera “upside down”.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Shift direction. Allowable values are:

Notes: To obtain the current value of the shift direction, use the

Related Commands:

scd i

i

0 = Forward CCD shift direction.
1 = Reverse CCD shift direction.
2 = External direction control via Camera Link control:

CC3 (CC3=1 forward, CC3=0 reverse).

command

smm

gcp or get scd.

Example:

Direction of
Object Movement

Camera should operate in

Reverse CCD S h ift Direction

scd 1

scd 0

Camera should operate in

Forward CCD Shift Di re ction

scd 0

Direction of
Object Movement

Sensor Readout Direction (Mirroring Mode)

Purpose: Selects the camera’s horizontal readout direction.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Direction of sensor readout

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smm i

i

0 = Left to right = 1 to n
1 = Right to left = n to 1

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 28

Note: Pixel readout remains the same after a direction change.

Example:

smm 0

3.7 Data Output

Setting the Camera Link Mode

Purpose: Sets the camera’s Camera Link configuration, number of Camera

Link taps and data bit depth.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
5 = Base configuration, RGB, 8 bit output

Note:

Example:

clm m

m

9 = Base configuration, RGBY, 8 bit output
10 = Base configuration, RGBY, 12 bit output
14 = Medium configuration, 2xRGB, 8 bit output
15 = Medium configuration, RGBY, 8 bit output
16 = Medium configuration, RGBY, 12 bit output

• To obtain the current data mode, use the command

gcp or get clm.

• The bit patterns are defined by the DALSA Camera

Link Roadmap and the Camera Link Standard.

clm 5

Setting the Camera’s Pixel Rate (Throughput)

Purpose: In DALSA cameras, the sot command works in conjunction

with the clm command (see previous command) and

determines the pixel rate of the camera.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
30 = outputs pixels RGB (triplet) or RGBY (quad) at 32

Note:

Example:

sot m

m

Mps
40 = outputs pixels RGB (triplet) or RGBY (quad) at 40
Mps
60 = outputs pixels RGB (triplet) or RGBY (quad) at 64
Mps
80 = outputs pixels RGB (triplet) or RGBY (quad) at 80
Mps

• To obtain the current throughput, use the command

gcp or get sot.

• The bit patterns are defined by the DALSA Camera

Link Roadmap and the Camera Link Standard.

• Changes to the clm may affect this parameter.

sot 80

3.8 Set Color Correction

Purpose: Sets the color correction coefficients.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 29

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

scc Co C1 C2 C3

Co = offset (0 to 4095)

C1 = red multiplier (-8192 to +8191)
C2 = green multiplier (-8192 to +8191)
C3 = blue multiplier (-8192 to +8191)

Note: Set coefficients used to combine three color streams, e.g.

White = C

is a DN, whereas:

C

0

Coefficient = C

+ (C1 x Red) + (C2 x Green) + (C3 x Blue)

0

/ 4,096

1-3

Modified by set color command (SCL):

RGB: White

R|G|B: Red, Green, or Blue

All colors are not necessary because constructing white is

different

Factory (initial) values combine the three colors equally:

White = 0 + (0.33 x Red) + (0.33 x Green) + (0.33 x Blue)

= 0.33 x 4,096= 1,365

C

n

Red = 0 + (1 x Red) + (0 x Green) + (0 x Blue)

= 1 x 4,096= 4,096

C

1

Range of {-8,192 to +8,191} is equivalent to floating point

coefficients of {-2.0 to +1.999}

Step size is 0.000244

Values are saved with camera settings

Values may be viewed with GCP or GET SCC

Example: White = 100 + (0.25 x Red) + (-0.15 x Green) + (0.8 x Blue)

Therefore,

C1 = 0.25 x 4096 = 1024

C2 = (-0.15 x 4096) = -614

C3 = 0.8 x 4096 = 3276

OK>scl RGB

OK>scc 100 1024 -614 3276

3.9 Camera Selection Variables

There are some camera condition variables that you should determine before adjusting
any digital or analog settings like gain or offset or before changing the camera’s
exposure time. These variables are:

 the color (or colors) that you want to adjust
 the set number where you want to save any of these adjustments
 the region of interest for performing these adjustments

Setting the Color Variable

Purpose: Selects the color or colors that you want to adjust with the ccf,

ccg, ccp, cpa, dpc, gfc, gl, gla, gpc, sag, sao, sdo,

set, sfc, spc, ssb, ssg commands.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

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scl s

s

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 30

rgb = adjust all colors (red, green, and blue). Power on

setting.

r = adjust red
g = adjust green
b = adjust blue

Note: The camera always powers up using scl rgb.

Example:

scl b

Color selection limits the taps that can be selected in these commands as follows:

scl
rgb
r

g

b

Tap Notes

0 All 10 camera taps

0

1 to 4

0

1 to 4

0

1 to 2

All 4 red taps
Single red tap
All green taps
Single green tap
All blue taps (2)
Single blue tap

Selecting the Set Number

Purpose: When saving and loading camera settings, you have a choice of

saving up to four different sets and loading from five different
sets (four user and one factory). This command determines the
set number from where these values are loaded and saved. The
set number is saved along with the camera settings when the
wus command is issued.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
0 = Factory set. Settings can only be loaded from this set.

Note: The camera powers up with the last set saved using this

Related Commands

ssn i
i

1 - 4 = User sets. You can save, or load settings with these

sets.

command.

wus, lus, wil, lil, wfc, lfc

Example:

ssn 3

Setting a Region of Interest (ROI)

Purpose: Sets the pixel range used to collect the end-of-line statistics and

sets the region of pixels used in the
ccp commands.
In most applications, the field of view exceeds the required object
size and these extraneous areas should be ignored. It is
recommended that you set the region of interest a few pixels
inside the actual useable image.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Column start number. Must be less than the pixel end number

Column end. Must be greater than the pixel start number in a

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roi x1 x2
x1

in a range from 1 to sensor resolution.

x2

range from 1 to sensor resolution.

ccg, gl, gla, ccf, and

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 31

Notes: To return the current region of interest, use the commands gcp

or get roi.

Related Commands
Example: roi 10 50

ccg, gl, gla, ccf, ccp, cpa, els

3.10 Exposure Control

Overview

You have a choice of operating in one of six exposure modes. The camera’s line rate
(synchronization) can be generated internally through the software command
externally with an EXSYNC signal, depending on your mode of operation. To select
how you want the camera’s line rate to be generated:

ssf or set

You must first set the camera exposure mode using the
Next, if using mode 2 or 7 use the commands ssf and set to set the line rate and exposure
time.

sem command.

Setting the Exposure Mode

Purpose: Sets the camera’s exposure mode allowing you to control your sync,

exposure time, and line rate generation.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Exposure mode to use. Factory setting is 2.

Notes: Refer to

Related Commands:

Example:

Table 6: Color Exposure Modes

Mode SYNC Exposure

2 Internal Internal Each color may have a different exposure time.
3 External None All colors share the same exposure time.
4 External External Smart EXSYNC. All colors share same exposure time.
5 External External Each color may have a different exposure time.
6 External Internal Each color may have a different exposure time.
7 Internal None All colors share the same exposure time.

sem i

i

Table 6: Color Exposure Modes for a quick list of available
modes or to the following sections for a more detailed explanation.
To obtain the current value of the exposure mode, use the command
gcp or get sem.
ssf, set

sem 3

Description

Control

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

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 32

Exposure Modes in Detail

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 33

i

Applies to
Modes 2 and 7

i

Applies to
Modes 2 and 8

Setting the Line Rate

Purpose: Sets the camera’s line rate in Hz. Camera must be operating in

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Desired line rate in Hz. Allowable values are:

Notes:

Related Commands:

Example:

exposure mode 2 or 7.

ssf f
f

2k80: 1 to 32362 Hz
2k60: 1 to 22714 Hz
4k80: 1 to 17699 Hz
4k60: 1 to 12132 Hz

To read the current line frequency, use the command
ssf.
If you enter an invalid line rate frequency, an error message is
returned.
Line rate reduces depending on clm, sut, els, and sah settings.
Values less than 5000 Hz will return the warning: "Warning 01:
Outside of specification>".

sem, set

ssf 10000

gcp or get

Setting the Exposure Time

Purpose: Sets the camera’s exposure time in micro seconds. Camera must be

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Desired exposure time in µs. Allowable range is 5.0 to

Notes:

Related Commands:

operating in mode 2 or 6.

set f
f

9997.000.0µs.

To read the current exposure time, use the command
set.

ssf and set commands will "push" each other when set.

The
sem, ssf

gcp or get

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 34

Example:

set 400.5

3.11 Spatial Correction

Spatial Correction and Trilinear Sensor Design

The trilinear sensor has three color lines do not share a common optical axis. This
results in the three color lines imaging three separate object points.

As a result, the color images need to be stored, delayed and recombined to properly
reconstruct the color image. This is referred to as spatial correction.

Green

Blue

Red

Sensor

Object

Direction of object movement.

As the object travels along the web, the object passes the three color lines at different points in time.
As a result, the camera uses spatial correction to reconstruct the image.

The Piranha Color sensor uses DALSA’s proprietary design to minimize the center to
center spacing to 30 µm (4k) or 42 µm (2k).

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 35

T

Blue Tap
1

30 µm (4k)
42 µm (2k)

Green Tap
1

he three color lines are

separated

30 µm (4k) or 42 µm (2k) apart

Red Tap 2

center to
center.

30 µm (4k)
42 µm (2k)

Red Tap
1

Green Tap 2

The trilinear CCD sensor used in the Piranha Color camera has three linear arrays for
Red (R), Green (G) and Blue (B) color channel, respectively. The inter-array spacing
between color channels is 3 lines apart centre-to-centre. Because of the spacing between
the linear arrays, each array will have a slightly different view of an object that is passing
before the camera. Therefore, for each exposure, each color array in the sensor captures
an image of a slightly different area on the object.

The spatial correction process is used to properly reconstruct the full color (RGB) image
of the object. For example, assuming that the following parameters are used:

The system uses a magnification of 1/10, i.e., an area of 0.1 mm x 0.1 mm on the object
will have an image of 10 µm x 10 µm on the sensor;

The encoder is set to have a step of 0.1 mm in the movement of the web; i.e., the image
on the sensor will move 10 µm for each step of the encoder;

The image is line captured at each step of the encoder;

The moving object A from the view of line of Red channel to that of Green channel is 3
steps, i.e.:

3 steps x 0.1 mm/step x 1/10 magnification = 30 µm movement of the image on the
sensor.

There are 3 more steps to move the image of object A further from the Green channel
to the Blue channel.

To properly reconstruct the full RGB image of the object A, the user needs to combine
the Red channel data captured at line capture #0 with Green data captured at capture
#3 and Blue data captured at capture #6. A parameter Line Delay is used to specify
which line captures should be combined to properly reconstruct the image. In the
above case, the Line Delay is 3. In general,

Inter-array spacing (30 µm or 42 µm)

Line Delay = -----------------------------------------------------

Step of encoder (µm) x magnification

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 36

The Piranha Color is a bidirectional camera and the direction of the web movement can
be arranged in either way. If the object is passing the camera in the other direction, its
image will pass over the Blue channel first, then the Green channel, and finally the Red
channel. In order to properly construct a full color (RGB) image, the system needs to
know the direction of the movement. Another parameter, color scan direction (scd), is
used to specify the direction of web movement.

Setting the Line Delay between Colors

Purpose: Sets the number of lines of delay between colors that are read out

from the sensor.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Line delay between colors in a range from 0-6.

Notes:

Example: ssa 3

ssa i
i

To read the current line delay, use the command gcp or get ssa.
If your line rate matches the speed of the object, then the value of
the line delay will be 3.
Adjust the ssa value until you remove the red and blue halos
above and below a black on white horizontal line in order to set
the line delay.

3.12 Averaging Horizontal Pixels

Setting the Averaging Horizontal

Purpose: Averaging reduces the pixel noise and decreases the horizontal

resolution. The charge collected in adjacent pixels is averaged
together.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
The number of horizontal pixels to average. Available values

Notes:

sah i
i

are 1 (factory setting) and 2.

• Selecting sah 1 results in no averaging.

• Selecting sah 2 averages pairs of pixels: 1+2, 3+4, 5+6…

• If you are using averaging, the minimum, maximum, and

mean statistics generated by the gl or gla commands and
used by the ccg, cao, ccf, and ccp commands are for the
un-averaged pixels.

• Changing the averaging does not require the recalibration

(analog gain, FPN or PRNU) of the camera.

• The current value of horizontal averaging factor can be

obtained using the gcp or get sah commands.

• Horizontal averaging does not affect the CCD readout time,

but it does affect FIFO readout as all the pixels still need to
be read out of the CCD, but only the averaged pixels stored
in the FIFO (line store).

• ROI will be pushed out to include both averaged pixels at

each end (e.g. if the ROI was 4-2048, the start value would
be changed to 3, since the first averaged pixel consists of
sensor pixels 3 and 4).

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 37

Example:

sah 2

3.13 Processing Chain Overview and Description

The following diagram shows a simplified block diagram of the camera’s analog and
digital processing chain. The analog processing chain begins with an analog gain
adjustment, followed by an analog offset adjustment. These adjustments are applied to
the video analog signal prior to its digitization by an A/D converter.

The digital processing chain contains the spatial correction, non-linearity look-up table
(LUT) correction, FPN correction, the PRNU correction, the background subtract, the
digital gain, and the background add. All of these elements are user programmable.

Figure 7: Signal Processing Chain



Analog Processing

analogvideo

Digital Processing

digitalvideo

digitalvideo

analog

gain

sag,ccg

analog

offset

sao

LUT

addition

eil

FPN

coefficients

ccf

PRNU

coefficients

ccp,cpa ssb

digital
offset

sdo

background

subtract

digitalsystem

gain

ssg

Analog Processing

 Optimizing offset performance and gain in the analog domain allows you to achieve

a better signal-to-noise ratio and dynamic range use. Perform all analog adjustments
prior to any digital adjustments.

 Analog gain (

sag or ccg command) is multiplied by the analog signal to increase

the signal strength before the A/D conversion (and before noise is added to the
signal).

 The analog offset (

sao command) or black level is an “artificial” offset introduced

into the video path to ensure that the A/D is functioning properly. The analog
offset should be set so that it is at least 3 times the RMS noise value at the current
gain.

Digital Processing

background

background

addition

addition

sab

 To optimize camera performance, complete all analog adjustments before digital

signal adjustments.

 Fixed pattern noise (FPN) calibration (calculated using the ccf command) is used

to subtract away individual pixel dark current.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 38

 The digital offset (sdo command) enables the subtraction of the “artificial” A/D

offset (the analog offset) so that application of the PRNU coefficient doesn’t result
in artifacts at low light levels due to the offset value. You may want to set the

sdo

value if you are not using FPN correction but want to perform PRNU correction.

 Photo-Response Non-Uniformity (PRNU) coefficients (calculated using the

cpa commands) are used to correct the difference in responsivity of individual

ccp or

pixels (i.e. given the same amount of light different pixels will charge up at different
rates) and the difference in light intensity across the image either because of the
light source or due to optical aberrations (e.g. there may be more light in the center
of the image). PRNU coefficients are multipliers and are defined to be of a value
greater than or equal to 1. This ensures that all pixels will saturate together.

 Background subtract (

ssb command) and system (digital) gain (ssg command) are

used to increase image contrast after FPN and PRNU calibration. It is useful for
systems that process 8-bit data but want to take advantage of the camera’s 12 bit
digital processing chain. For example, if you find that your image is consistently
between 128 and 255DN(8 bit), you can subtract off 128 (
multiply by 2 (

ssg 0 8192) to get an output range from 0 to 255.

ssb 2048) and then

 Background addition (sab command) is used to ensure a minimum output value,

and is added to the digital video after the system gain is applied.

The Effects of the Processing Chain on Calibration

The Processing Chain (as shown in Figure 7):

 Video out = (([video in] x SAG + SAO - SDO - FPN) x PRNU – SSB) x SSG +

SSB

Calibration takes place at the output of the parameter being calibrated. If the parameters
further down the chain are not zero or unity, then the video out may not be as expected.

For example, if the analog gain is calibrated to an average of 3,000 DN using “CCG 2 0
3000” while SSB is 100, the average video output will be 2,900 DN not 3,000 DN.

This applies to:

 CCG: calibrate analog gain (SAG) or system gain (SSG)
 CCF: calibrate FPN
 CCP: calibrate PRNU
 CPA: calibrate analog gain (SAG) and PRNU

PRNU calibration includes the FPN whether it is enabled or not (as they are linked). If
you do not want the PRNU calibration to include the effect of FPN then it should be
zeroed first using the RPC command.

CCG 3 (system gain) only includes FPN and PRNU if they are enabled with EPC.

Note: Refer to section

3.8 Set Color Correction

Purpose: Sets the color correction coefficients.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

scc Co C1 C2 C3

Co = offset (0 to 4095)

C1 = red multiplier (-8192 to +8191)
C2 = green multiplier (-8192 to +8191)
C3 = blue multiplier (-8192 to +8191)

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Note: Set coefficients used to combine three color streams, e.g.

White = C0 + (C1 x Red) + (C2 x Green) + (C3 x Blue)
C0 is a DN, whereas:
Coefficient = C1-3 / 4,096
Modified by set color command (SCL):
RGB: White
R|G|B: Red, Green, or Blue
All colors are not necessary because constructing white is
different
Factory (initial) values combine the three colors equally:

White = 0 + (0.33 x Red) + (0.33 x Green) + (0.33 x Blue)
Cn = 0.33 x 4,096= 1,365

Red = 0 + (1 x Red) + (0 x Green) + (0 x Blue)
C1 = 1 x 4,096= 4,096

Range of {-8,192 to +8,191} is equivalent to floating point
coefficients of {-2.0 to +1.999}
Step size is 0.000244
Values are saved with camera settings
Values may be viewed with GCP or GET SCC

Example: White = 100 + (0.25 x Red) + (-0.15 x Green) + (0.8 x Blue)

Therefore,
C1 = 0.25 x 4096 = 1024
C2 = (-0.15 x 4096) = -614
C3 = 0.8 x 4096 = 3276

OK>scl RGB
OK>scc 100 1024 -614 3276

3.9 Camera Selection Variables for details on commands that should be set before
performing any analog or digital adjustments.

3.14 Analog Gain and Analog Offset

All analog signal processing chain commands should be performed prior to FPN and
PRNU calibration and prior to digital signal processing commands.

Setting Analog Gain

Purpose: Sets the camera’s analog gain value. Analog gain is multiplied by

the analog signal to increase the signal strength before the A/D
conversion. It is used to take advantage of the full dynamic
range of the A/D converter.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements: t
Tap selection. Use 0 for all taps. Color selection limits the

f
Gain value in a range from –10 to +10dB.
Notes: To return the current analog gain setting, use the command

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

sag t f

taps that may be selected by this command. See scl for
further information.

gcp

or get sag.

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 40

A

A

T

Example:
Related Commands:

sag 0 5.2
ccg

Calibrating Camera Gain

Purpose: Instead of manually setting the analog gain to a specific value, the camera can

determine appropriate gain values. This command calculates and sets the analog

gain according to the algorithm determined by the first parameter.
Syntax:
Syntax
Elements:
Calibration algorithm to use.

ccg i t i

i

1 = This algorithm adjusts analog gain so that 8% to 13% of tap region of
interest (ROI) pixels are above the specified target value.

lgorithm One

10% Above
Targ et

Before
Calibration

2 = This algorithm adjusts analog gain so that the average pixel value in tap’s
ROI is equal to the specified target value.

lgorithm Two

Mean

arget

Before
Calibration

3 = This algorithm adjusts digital gain so that the average pixel value in tap’s
ROI is equal to the specified target.
Note: See Alogrithm Two above for an illustration.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 41

T

A

4 = This algorithm adjusts the analog gain so that the peak tap ROI pixels are
adjusted to the specified target.

lgorithm Four

Peak

arget

Before
Calibration

Tap value. Use 0 for all taps. Color selection limits the taps that may be

Calculation target value in a range from 1024 to 4055DN (12 bit LSB).

Notes: Analog gain calibration requires constant light on a clean, white reference. White

Example:
Related
Commands:

t

selected by this command. See scl for further information.

i

plastic or white ceramic is ideal.

If very few tap pixels are within the ROI, gain calculation may not be optimal.

When all taps are selected, taps outside of the ROI are set to the average gain of the

taps that are within the ROI.

Perform analog gain algorithms before performing FPN and PRNU calibration.

All digital settings affect the analog gain calibration. If you do not want the digital

processing to have any effect on the camera gain calibration, then turn off all digital

settings by sending the commands:

4096, and sab 0 0.

ccg 2 0 3040

sag, ssg

sdo 0 0, epc 0 0, ssb 0 0, ssg 0

Setting Analog Offset

Purpose: Sets the analog offset. The analog offset should be set so that it

is at least 3 times the RMS noise value at the current gain.
DALSA configures the analog offset for the noise at the
maximum specified gain and as a result you should not need to
adjust the analog offset.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Tap selection. Use 0 for all taps. Color selection limits the

i

sao t i
t

taps that may be selected by this command. See scl for
further information.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 42

Offset value in a range from 0 to 255DN (12 bit LSB).
Notes: To return the current analog offset value, use the command

gcp or get sao.

Example:
Related Commands:

sao 2 35

3.15 Flat Field Correction

Flat Field Correction Overview

This camera has the ability to calculate correction coefficients in order to remove non-

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

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 Correction is implemented such that for each
pixel:



Analog Processing

Digital Processing

analogvideo

analog

offset

sao

LUT

addition

eil

FPN

coefficients

ccf

PRNU

coefficients

ccp,cpa ssb

digital
offset

sdo

background

subtract

digitalsystem

gain

ssg

V

output

=[(V

analog

gain

sag,ccg

- FPN( pixel ) - digital offset) * PRNU(pixel) – Background Subtract] x

input

System Gain + Background Addition

where V
V

= digital output pixel value

output

= digital input pixel value from the CCD

input

PRNU( pixel) = PRNU correction coefficient for this pixel
FPN( pixel ) = FPN correction coefficient for this pixel
Background Subtract = background subtract value
System Gain = digital gain value

Background Addition = background addition value
The 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 (zero) output when the CCD is
not exposed.

digitalvideo

digitalvideo

background

background

addition

addition

sab

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 43

g

p)

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

Flat Field Correction Restrictions

It is important to do the FPN correction first. Results of the FPN correction are used in
the PRNU procedure. We recommend that you repeat the correction when a
temperature change greater than 10°C occurs or if you change the analog gain,
integration time, line rate, or SRM.

PRNU correction 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.

For best results, ensure that:

 50 or 60 Hz ambient light flicker is sufficiently low so as not to affect camera

performance and calibration results.

 The analog gain should be adjusted for the expected operating conditions.
 The ratio of the brightest to darkest pixel in a tap should be less than 3 to 1, where:

htest Pixel (per ta

Bri

3>

 The brightest pixel should be slightly below the target output.

When greater than 6.25% of the pixels from a single row within the region of interest
are clipped, then flat field correction results may be inaccurate.

Darkest Pixel (per tap)

Correction results are valid only for the current analog gain and offset values. If you
change these values, it is recommended that you recalculate your coefficients.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 44

Set up the camera operating environment

(i.e. line rate, exposure, offset, gain, etc.)

Set the calibration sample size using

the command css. It is recommended that

you use the default setting.

Set the region of interest to include all
of the image’s pixels of importance using
the command roi x1 y1 x2 y2. You can use

the default if you want to calibrate all pixels.

Perform FPN calculation

Perform PRNU calculation

Digital offset and digital system gain, and background subtract and
addvaluesshouldbesettozero( , , , )

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

2.Veri f y thattheoutputsignalleveliswithinrangebyissuingthecommand
or . If there are too many zeros in the output data (more than 6.25%

gl gla

of output d ata within the roi) , increase the analog offset ( ) or use the
automated algorithm . If the average of the pixels is too high for your
application, reduce the analog offset or gain level ( ).

3.Issuethecommand.ThecamerawillrespondwithOK>(ifnoerroroccurs).

FPNcalculationautomaticallycalibrates FPNcoefficientsand

4.Afterthecalibrationiscomplete,youshouldsavethesesettings tonon‐volatile

memory so they be reusable on reboot. To do so, issue the commands and

wus

.

5. To verify output, enable the FPN coefficients using the command .

Youshouldseeclosetozerooutput.

PerformPRNUcalculationnexttodeterminethemultiplication
factorsrequiredtobringeachpixeltotherequiredvalue(balancetarget)for
flat,whiteoutput.

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

2.Veri f y thattheoutputsignalleveliswithinrangebyissuingthecommand

gla

or . If the signal level is too low, increase your light level, adjust the analog

sag ccg i 0 i

gain ( ) or use the automated algorithm .

DALSArecommendsatargetvalueofabout80%ofsaturation.Ifyouchange
thegain,FPNcoefficientsshouldberecalculated.

3. Issue the command . Th e camera will respond with OK>( if no error occurs).

4.Afterthecalculationis

memorysotheywillberememberedafterpower‐downanddirectionchange.

To do so, issue the commands and

. Enable the coefficients using the command, .

5

cao0

ccp

complete,youcansave thesesettingstonon‐volatile

ssb 0 0sdo 0 0ssg 0 0sab 0 0

sao

i

sag

digitaloffset.

wfc

epc10

gl

wpc wus.

epc11

FPN Measurement

Performing FPN Measurement

Purpose: Measures fixed pattern noise (FPN).
Syntax:
Notes:

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

ccf

• Before sending this command, use the

scl command to

select the color or colors you want to adjust. This allows
you to limit the calibration to a single color.

• Perform all analog and digital adjustments before

performing FPN correction.

• Perform FPN correction before PRNU correction.

To save FPN coefficients after calibration, use the

wfc command.

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 45

Related Commands:
Example:

Setting a Pixel’s FPN Coefficient

Purpose: Sets an individual pixel’s FPN coefficient.
Syntax
Syntax Elements:

The pixel number from 1 to sensor pixel count.
i
Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 4095 (12 bit LSB).

Notes: Before sending this command, use the scl command to select the

Example:

Setting a Range of FPN Coefficients

Purpose: Sets a range of pixel FPN coefficients.
Syntax

Syntax Elements:

The first pixel number of the range.

The last pixel number of the range.

ccp, wfc
ccf

sfc x i

x

color you want to adjust.

sfc 10 50

sfr x x i

x

x

i

Coefficient value in a range from 0-2048.
Notes:

Example:

• Before sending this command, use the

select the color you want to adjust.

The first pixel of the range must be less than the last.

sfr 1 100 80

scl command to

PRNU Calculation

Performing PRNU to a user entered value

Purpose: Calculate the PRNU coefficients to eliminate the difference in

responsivity between the pixels, thereby creating a uniform response

to light. Using this command, you must provide a calibration target.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

PRNU calibration algorithm to use:

cpa i1 i2

i1

1 = This algorithm first adjusts each tap’s analog gain so that
8-13% of pixels within a tap are above the value specified in
the target value parameter. PRNU calibration then occurs using
the peak pixel in the region of interest.
This algorithm is recommended for use only when FPN is
negligible and FPN coefficients are set to zero. Since this
algorithm adjusts the analog gain, it also affects FPN. If FPN is
calibrated prior to running this algorithm, FPN will be
observable in dark conditions and an incorrect FPN value will
be used during PRNU calibration resulting in incorrect PRNU
coefficients.
2 = Calculates the PRNU coefficients using the entered target

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 46

value as shown below:

PRNUCo efficient=

i

(AVGPixelValue)‐(FPN+value)

Target

i

sdo

i

The calculation is performed for all sensor pixels but warnings
are only applied to pixels in the region of interest. This
algorithm is useful for achieving uniform output across
multiple cameras. It is important that the target value (set with
the next parameter) is set to be at least equal to the highest
pixel across all cameras so that all pixels can reach the highest
pixel value during calibration. Confirm this using the gla
statistics.
3 = This algorithm includes an analog gain adjustment prior to
PRNU calibration. Analog gain is first adjusted so that the peak
pixel value in tap’s ROI is within 97 to 99% of the specified
target value. It then calculates the PRNU coefficients using the
target value as shown below:

PRNUCo efficient=

i

(AVGPixelValue)‐(FPN+value)

Target

i

sdo

i

The calculation is performed for all sensor pixels but warnings
are only applied to pixels in the region of interest. This
algorithm is useful for achieving uniform output across
multiple cameras.
This algorithm is should be used only when FPN is negligible
and FPN coefficients are set to zero. Since this algorithm
adjusts the analog gain, it also affects FPN. If FPN is calibrated
prior to running this algorithm, FPN will be observable in dark
conditions and an incorrect FPN value will be used during
PRNU calibration resulting in incorrect PRNU coefficients.
This algorithm is more robust and repeatable than algorithm 1
because it uses an average pixel value rather than a number
above target. However, this algorithm is slower.
4 = Calculates the PRNU coefficient in the same way as cpa 2
with the exception that this command only calculates PRNU
for pixels within the current Region of Interest (ROI).

i

2

Peak target value in a range from 1024 to 4055DN. The target

value must be greater than the current peak output value.

Notes:

• Perform all analog adjustments before calibrating PRNU.

• This command performs the same function as the

cpp

command with the exception that you enter a target value.

• Calibrate FPN before calibrating PRNU. If you are not

performing FPN calibration then issue the
coefficients) command and set the

sdo (set digital offset)

rpc (reset pixel

value so that the output is near zero under dark.

Example:

cpa 1 600

Performing PRNU Calculation to a Camera Calculated Value

Purpose: Performs PRNU correction and eliminates the difference in

responsivity between the most and least sensitive pixel creating a
uniform response to light.

Syntax

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

ccp

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 47

Notes:

• Before sending this command, use the scl command to

select the color or colors you want to adjust. This
allows you to limit the calibration to a single color.

• Perform all analog adjustments before calculating

PRNU.

• Perform FPN correction before PRNU correction.

• If FPN cannot be calibrated, use the

reset all coefficients to zero, and save them to memory
with the
offset (

wfc command. You can then adjust the digital

sdo command) to remove some of the FPN.

• Ensure camera is operating at its expected analog gain,

integration time, and temperature.

• To save PRNU coefficients after calibration, use the

wpc command.

Related Commands:

ccf, cpa

Setting a Pixel’s PRNU Coefficient

Purpose: Sets an individual pixel’s PRNU coefficient.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

spc i1 i2
i1

The pixel number from 1 to n, where n = 2048 or 4096

depending on the resolution.

i2

Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 61438 where:

rpc command to

i2

prnu coefficient =

1 +

4096

Notes: Before sending this command, use the scl command to select the

color you want to adjust.

Example:

spc 1024 10000

Setting a range of Pixel PRNU Coefficients

Purpose: Sets a range of pixel PRNU coefficients.
Syntax:

Syntax Elements:

spr i1 i2 i3
i1

The first pixel number of the range.

i2

The last pixel number of the range.

i3

Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 61438 where:

i3

prnu coefficient =

1 +

4096

Notes: Before sending this command, use the scl command to select the

color or colors you want to adjust. This allows you to limit the
calibration to a single color.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 48

The first pixel of the range must be less than the last.

Example:

spr 4001 4096 0

Returning Calibration Results and Errors

Returning All Pixel Coefficients

Purpose: Returns all the current pixel coefficients in the order FPN, PRNU,

FPN, PRNU… for the range specified by x1 and x2.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Start pixel to display in a range from 1 to n, where n = 2048 or

End pixel to display in a range from x1 to n, where n = 2048 or

Notes: This function returns all the current pixel coefficients in the order

Example:

Returning FPN Coefficients

Purpose: Returns a pixel’s FPN coefficient value in DN (12 bit LSB)
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

The pixel number to read in a range from 1 to sensor

Notes: Before sending this command, use the scl command to select the

Example:

dpc x1 x2
x1

4096 depending on the resolution.

x2

4096 depending on the resolution.

FPN, PRNU, FPN, PRNU…
Limited by the scl color selection.

dpc 10 20

gfc i

i

pixel count.

color you want to adjust.

gfc 10

Returning PRNU Coefficients

Purpose: Returns a pixel’s PRNU coefficient value in DN (12 bit LSB)
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

The pixel number to read in a range from 1 to sensor

Notes: Before sending this command, use the scl command to select the

Example:

gpc i
i

pixel count.

color you want to adjust.

gpc 10

Enabling and Disabling Pixel Coefficients

Purpose: Enables and disables FPN and PRNU coefficients.

Syntax:

Syntax Elements:
FPN coefficients.

PRNU coefficients.

epc i i

i

0 = FPN coefficients disabled
1 = FPN coefficients enabled

i

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 49

e

0 = PRNU coefficients disabled
1 = PRNU coefficients enabled

Example:

epc 0 1

3.16 Digital Gain and Background Subtract

Setting Digital Offset

Purpose: Sets the digital offset. Digital offset is set to zero when you

ccf command). If you are unable to

Syntax:

perform FPN correction (
perform FPN correction, you can partially remove FPN by
adjusting the digital offset.

sdo t i

Syntax Elements:
Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4 depending on color

Subtracted offset value in a range from 0 to 4095.
Notes: When subtracting a digital value from the digital video signal, the

Related Commands:
Example:

t

selected, or 0 for all taps.

i

output can no longer reach its maximum unless you apply digital
gain using the ssg command. See the following section for
details on the ssg command.

ssg
sdo 0 100

Subtracting Background

Purpose: Use the background subtract command after performing a flat

field correction in order to improve your image in a low contrast
scene. This is useful for systems that process 8 bit data but want
to take advantage of the camera’s 12 bit digital processing chain.
You should try to make your darkest pixel in the scene equal to

zero.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Tap selection. Allowable range is 1 to 4 depending on color

Subtracted value in a range in DN from 0 to 4095.
Notes: When subtracting a digital value from the digital video signal the

Related Commands:
Example

ssb t i

t

selected, or 0 for all taps.

i

output can no longer reach its maximum. Use the

command to correct for this where:

ssgval u e =

See the following section for details on the

ssg

ssb 0 800

In 8-bit Camera Link mode: If your scene has a minimum value

of 50 DN and a maximum of 200 DN, then to expand it to 0

DN and 255 DN, set the ssb command to 800 (50 x 16), and

the ssg command to 6990 (4096 / ((200 – 50) x 16)) x 4096).

maxoutputvalu

maxoutputvalue ‐ssbvalu e

ssg

ssg command.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 50

e

i

i

i

Setting Digital System Gain

Purpose: Improves signal output swing after a background subtract.

When subtracting a digital value from the digital video signal,

using the

maximum. Use this command to correct for this where:

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

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

Gain setting. The gain ranges are 0 to 65535. The digital

Related Commands:
Example:

ssg t i

t

ssb

ssg 1 15

ssb command, the output can no longer reach its

ssgval u e =

video values are multiplied by this value where:

Digital Gain=

Therefore, the multiplication factor range is 0 to 16.
Use this command in conjunction with the

maxoutputvalu

maxoutputvalue ‐ssbvalu e

4096

ssb command.

Setting Add Background

Purpose: Use the set add background command to ensure a minimum

output value by adding this value to the digital video after

system gain is applied.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Tap selection. 0 for all taps. Color selection limits the taps

Background add values. The range is from 0 to 4095.
Related Commands:

Example:

sab t i

t

that may be selected. See the scl command for details.

ssg, scl

sab 1 25

3.17 Look-Up Tables

The flat field corrections FPN and PRNU assume a linear response to the amount of
light by the sensor, output node, analog amplifier, and analog to digital converter. To
correct any non-linearity in this system of components a Look-Up Table (LUT) has
been implemented in the FPGA for each tap immediately after the ADC. The LUT adds
a signed value (-256 to +255) indexed by the 10 MSB of the input value.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 51

1

Calibrate Input LUT

Purpose: Calibrates the current input look-up table for correcting non-

linearity in the analog chain (CCD sense node and analog-to-

digital conversion).
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Notes: This command calibrates all taps within the ROI for current

Example:

cil

color (RBG does all).

To calibrate:

Place a white reference in front of the camera. This is similar to

a PRNU calibration.

Adjust the light level such that at maximum LUT line rate:

2K60 is equal to 10,501 Hz, and 4K60 is equal to 5,410 Hz.

Average output is less than 590 DN (12 bit) and at minimum

line rate average output is greater than 3,685 DN (12 bit)

In addition:

Use the wil command to write the LUT to non-volatile

memory.

Use the eil command to enable use of the LUT.

Use the scl command to select which colored taps to calibrate.

Use the roi command to limit the taps calibrated and to limit

which pixels are used for calibration. If a tap is not in the region

of interest, then it will not be calibrated.

Press spacebar to abort this command.

Rerun this command if the analog gain or operating temperature

changes.

Enable Input LUT

Purpose: Enables or disables the use of the input look-up tables for the

correction of the analog chain non-linearity.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Disable

Enable
Notes: Coefficients must be created first with the cil command.

Example:

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eil flag

0

Setting saved with the wfs and wus commands.

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 52

3.18 Saving, Loading and Restoring Settings

Saving and Restoring Settings

Figure 8: Saving and Restoring Overview

Current

 Settings
 LUT
 FPN
 PRNU

Factory

 Settings
 LUT
 FPN
 PRNU

SSN 0

S

F

L

User

User

User

 Settings

 Settings

 Settings

 LUT

 Settings

 LUT

 LUT

 FPN

 LUT

 FPN

 FPN

 PRNU

 FPN

 PRNU

 PRNU

 PRNU

SSN 1-4

WUS

WFC
WPC

User

WIL

LUS

LIL

LFC

LPC

 Settings
 LUT
 FPN
 PRNU

Factory Settings

On first initialization, the camera operates using user set 1, which has been set equal to
the factory settings. You can restore the original factory settings at any time using the
command lfs.

PC

SSN 5

User Settings

You can save or restore your user settings to non-volatile memory using the following
commands. Pixel coefficients and LUTS are stored separately from other data.

 To save all current user settings to Flash, use the command wus. The camera will

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

 To load the user settings from non-volatile memory, use the command lus.
 To write and load the LUTs, use the wil and lil commands, respectively.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 53

 To write and load the FPN coefficients, use the wfc and lfc commands,

respectively.

 To write and load the PRNU coefficients, use the wpc and lfc commands,

respectively.

 Before issuing the user setting commands, select the set you wish to write using the

ssn command: Sets 1 to 4 are user sets.

Current Session Settings

These are the current operating settings of your camera. To save these settings to non­volatile memory, use the command

wus.

Writing and Loading Setting to Non-Volatile Memory

Write User Settings

Purpose: Write all the current camera settings to the micro-controller’s

EEPROM.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to write

Related Commands:

wus

wus

with the ssn command:

Set 1-4 are user sets

The settings can be manually restored with using the lus

command.

The last saved set (excluding PC sets) of settings will be

restored automatically after the power is cycled or after the rc

command – this includes loading the LUT, FPN, and PRNU

with the saved set number

The format of the file sent to a PC is proprietary.

Load User Settings

Purpose: Load the camera’s user settings from non-volatile memory and

send values to FPGA.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to load

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lus

lus

with the SSN command

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

5 = Selects transfer from PC

Unlike LFS, LUS only restores the settings and not the FPN,

PRNU, and LUT.

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 54

Related Commands:

Write Input LUT

Purpose: Saves current values of input LUT that are in FPGA SDRAM

to Flash memory or a PC file.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to write

Format of LUT PC
File

wil

wil

with the SSN command:

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

Input LUT is loaded by LIL, LFS, and automatically at power-

up.

LUT use is enabled or disabled with the EIL command.

Set 0 can only be written from factory mode.

Provided so that user can generate their own LUT’s to send to

the camera

Binary file

((2 bytes, LSB first) x (1024 values)) x (4 red taps)

((2 bytes, LSB first) x (1024 values)) x (4 green taps)

((2 bytes, LSB first) x (1024 values)) x (2 blue taps)

32 bytes reserved

2 byte CRC-16 of previous bytes

e.g. PC-30-02k80 would have

1024 words for red tap 1 +

1024 words for red tap 2 +

1024 words for red tap 3 +

1024 words for red tap 4 +

1024 words for green tap 1 +

1024 words for green tap 2 +

1024 words for green tap 3 +

1024 words for green tap 4 +

1024 words for blue tap 1 +

1024 words for blue tap 2 +

32 unused bytes +

2 byte CRC of the above

LUT values are indexed using the most significant 10 bytes of

the video signal

When LUT’s are enabled, an indexed value is added to each

value in the video signal

e.g. If the value out of the A/D converter was 4007 then the

index into the LUT would be 4007 / 4 = 1001.75. If the LUT

were enabled, then the value at index 1001 (zero based) in the

LUT would be added to the value coming out of the A/D

converter.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 55

The LUT values are two’s complement signed integers from -

256 to +255

e.g. 7

= 11

10

= [0000][0000][0000][0111]

12

-1210 = 0-11002 = [1111][1111][1111][0100]

See WFC for a description of the CRC algorithm.

Load Input LUT

Purpose: Load previously stored LUT for all taps from non-volatile

memory to FPGA SDRAM.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to load

lil

lil

with the SSN command:

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

5 = Selects transfer from PC

LUTs are only loaded from non-volatile memory on: power-up,

LIL, and LFS. They are not loaded by LUS.

Related Commands:

wil

Write FPN Coefficients

Purpose: Saves current values of FPN pixel coefficients that are in

FPGA SDRAM to Flash memory or a PC file.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to write

Format of FPN PC
File

wfc

wfc

with the SSN command:

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

FPN pixel coefficients are loaded by LFC, LFS, and

automatically at power-up.

Coefficient use is enabled or disabled with the EPC command

Set 0 can only be written from factory mode.

Provided so that user can generate their own coefficients to

send to the camera

Binary file

((2 bytes, LSB first) x (number of pixels)) x (3 colors – red,

green, blue)

32 bytes reserved

2 byte CRC-16 of previous bytes

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 56

e.g. PC-30-02k80 would have:

2048 words of red +

2048 words of green +

2048 words of blue +

32 unused bytes +

2 byte CRC of the above

2 byte FPN = [IIII][IIII][IIII][FFFF]

I – Integer portion {0-4095}

F – Binary fraction portion

e.g. 6.5

= 110.12 = [0000][0000][0110][1000]

10

CRC-16 Algorithm
// Fast CRC16 Algorithm
// (X^16 + X^12 + X^5 + 1).
// “unsigned int” is two bytes

unsigned int CRC_table16[256] =
{
0x0000, 0x1021, 0x2042, 0x3063, 0x4084, 0x50a5, 0x60c6, 0x70e7, 0x8108,
0x9129, 0xa14a, 0xb16b, 0xc18c, 0xd1ad, 0xe1ce, 0xf1ef, 0x1231, 0x0210,
0x3273, 0x2252, 0x52b5, 0x4294, 0x72f7, 0x62d6, 0x9339, 0x8318, 0xb37b,
0xa35a, 0xd3bd, 0xc39c, 0xf3ff, 0xe3de, 0x2462, 0x3443, 0x0420, 0x1401,
0x64e6, 0x74c7, 0x44a4, 0x5485, 0xa56a, 0xb54b, 0x8528, 0x9509, 0xe5ee,
0xf5cf, 0xc5ac, 0xd58d, 0x3653, 0x2672, 0x1611, 0x0630, 0x76d7, 0x66f6,
0x5695, 0x46b4, 0xb75b, 0xa77a, 0x9719, 0x8738, 0xf7df, 0xe7fe, 0xd79d,
0xc7bc, 0x48c4, 0x58e5, 0x6886, 0x78a7, 0x0840, 0x1861, 0x2802, 0x3823,
0xc9cc, 0xd9ed, 0xe98e, 0xf9af, 0x8948, 0x9969, 0xa90a, 0xb92b, 0x5af5,
0x4ad4, 0x7ab7, 0x6a96, 0x1a71, 0x0a50, 0x3a33, 0x2a12, 0xdbfd, 0xcbdc,
0xfbbf, 0xeb9e, 0x9b79, 0x8b58, 0xbb3b, 0xab1a, 0x6ca6, 0x7c87, 0x4ce4,
0x5cc5, 0x2c22, 0x3c03, 0x0c60, 0x1c41, 0xedae, 0xfd8f, 0xcdec, 0xddcd,
0xad2a, 0xbd0b, 0x8d68, 0x9d49, 0x7e97, 0x6eb6, 0x5ed5, 0x4ef4, 0x3e13,
0x2e32, 0x1e51, 0x0e70, 0xff9f, 0xefbe, 0xdfdd, 0xcffc, 0xbf1b, 0xaf3a,
0x9f59, 0x8f78, 0x9188, 0x81a9, 0xb1ca, 0xa1eb, 0xd10c, 0xc12d, 0xf14e,
0xe16f, 0x1080, 0x00a1, 0x30c2, 0x20e3, 0x5004, 0x4025, 0x7046, 0x6067,
0x83b9, 0x9398, 0xa3fb, 0xb3da, 0xc33d, 0xd31c, 0xe37f, 0xf35e, 0x02b1,
0x1290, 0x22f3, 0x32d2, 0x4235, 0x5214, 0x6277, 0x7256, 0xb5ea, 0xa5cb,
0x95a8, 0x8589, 0xf56e, 0xe54f, 0xd52c, 0xc50d, 0x34e2, 0x24c3, 0x14a0,
0x0481, 0x7466, 0x6447, 0x5424, 0x4405, 0xa7db, 0xb7fa, 0x8799, 0x97b8,
0xe75f, 0xf77e, 0xc71d, 0xd73c, 0x26d3, 0x36f2, 0x0691, 0x16b0, 0x6657,
0x7676, 0x4615, 0x5634, 0xd94c, 0xc96d, 0xf90e, 0xe92f, 0x99c8, 0x89e9,
0xb98a, 0xa9ab, 0x5844, 0x4865, 0x7806, 0x6827, 0x18c0, 0x08e1, 0x3882,
0x28a3, 0xcb7d, 0xdb5c, 0xeb3f, 0xfb1e, 0x8bf9, 0x9bd8, 0xabbb, 0xbb9a,
0x4a75, 0x5a54, 0x6a37, 0x7a16, 0x0af1, 0x1ad0, 0x2ab3, 0x3a92, 0xfd2e,
0xed0f, 0xdd6c, 0xcd4d, 0xbdaa, 0xad8b, 0x9de8, 0x8dc9, 0x7c26, 0x6c07,
0x5c64, 0x4c45, 0x3ca2, 0x2c83, 0x1ce0, 0x0cc1, 0xef1f, 0xff3e, 0xcf5d,
0xdf7c, 0xaf9b, 0xbfba, 0x8fd9, 0x9ff8, 0x6e17, 0x7e36, 0x4e55, 0x5e74,
0x2e93, 0x3eb2, 0x0ed1, 0x1ef0
};

unsigned int CalcCrc(unsigned char *ptr, // pointer to buffer to process
unsigned int count) // number of bytes in buffer
{

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 57

unsigned int sum = 0;

while(count--)
{
sum = CRC_table16[(sum >> 8) ^ *ptr] ^ (sum << 8);
ptr++;
}
return sum;
}

Load FPN Coefficients

Purpose: Loads previously stored FPN pixel coefficients from non-

volatile memory to FPGA SDRAM.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to load

lfc

lfc

with the SSN command:

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

5 = Selects transfer from PC

FPN coefficients are only loaded from non-volatile memory

on: power-up, LFC, and LFS. They are not loaded by LUS.

Related Commands:

wfc

Write PRNU Coefficients

Purpose: Saves current values of PRNU pixel coefficients that are in

FPGA SDRAM to Flash memory or a PC file.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to write

Format of PRNU PC
File

wpc

wpc

with the SSN command:

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

PRNU coefficients will be loaded by LPC, LFS, and

automatically at power-up

Coefficient use is enabled or disabled with the EPC command

Set 0 can only be written from factory mode

Provided so that user can generate their own coefficients to

send to the camera

Binary file

((2 bytes, LSB first) x (number of pixels)) x (3 colors – red,

green, blue)

32 bytes reserved

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 58

2 byte CRC-16 of previous bytes

e.g. PC-30-02k80 would have

2048 words of red +

2048 words of green +

2048 words of blue +

32 unused bytes +

2 byte CRC of the above

2 byte PRNU is an unsigned integer from 0 to 61,438

This value will be converted to the PRNU coefficient as

follows:

PRNU = 1 + value / 4096

Therefore the PRNU range is 1 to 15.9995 and the formula to

calculate the value is:

value = 4096 x (PRNU -1)

See WFC for a description of the CRC algorithm

Load PRNU Coefficients

Purpose: Load previously stored PRNU pixel coefficients from non-

volatile memory to FPGA SDRAM.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:

Example:
Notes: Before issuing this command, select the set you wish to load

Related Commands:

lpc

lpc

with the SSN command

0 = Factory set

1 to 4 = User sets

5 = Selects transfer from PC

PRNU coefficients are only loaded from non-volatile memory

on: power-up, LPC, and LFS. They are not loaded by LUS.

wpc

3.19 Diagnostics

End-of-line Sequence

Purpose: Produces an end-of-line sequence that provides basic

calculations including "line counter", "line sum", "pixels above

threshold", "pixels below threshold", and "derivative line sum"

within the region of interest.

To further aid in debugging and cable/data path integrity, the

, 5516, AA16. Refer to

16

Syntax:

first three pixels after Line Valid are AA

the following table. These statistics refer only to pixels within

the region of interest.

els i

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 59

Syntax Elements:
0 Disable end-of-line sequence
1 Enable end-of-line sequence, LVAL is not high for

2 LVAL high for video and end-of-line statistics
Notes:
Example:

i

end-of-line statistics.

els 1

Table 7: End-of-Line Sequence Description

Location Value Description

1 AA16

2 5516

3 AA16

4 4 bit counter LSB justified

5 Line sum (7…0)

6 Line sum (15…8)

7 Line sum (23…16)

8 Line sum (31…24)

9 Pixels above threshold (7…0)

10 Pixels above threshold

(15…8)
11 Pixels below threshold (7…0)
12 Pixels below threshold

(15…8)
13 Differential line sum (7..0)

By ensuring these values consistently
toggle between AA16 and 5516, you can
verify cabling (i.e. no stuck bits)

Counter increments by 1. Use this value
to verify that every line is output

Use these values to help calculate line
average and gain

Monitor these values (either above or
below threshold) and adjust camera
digital gain and background subtract to
maximize scene contrast. This provides a
basis for automatic gain control (AGC)

14 Differential line sum (15…8)

15 Differential line sum (23…16)

16 Differential line sum (31…24)

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

Setting Thresholds

Setting an Upper Threshold

Purpose: Sets the upper threshold limit to report in the end-of-line

sequence.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Upper threshold limit in range from 0 to 4095.
Notes: You must first select the color or colors you want to adjust using

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

sut i

i

the scl command.

RGB: all outputs

R: red output

G: green output

B: blue output

To change just the white (luminance) value, first change all

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 60

outputs using the scl command set to rgb to the desired white

value, and then change each color back individually.

LVAL is not high during the end-of-line statistics.
Related Commands:

els, slt, scl

Example: sut 1024

Setting a Lower Threshold

Purpose: Sets the lower threshold limit to report in the end-of-line

sequence.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Upper threshold limit in range from 0 to 4095.
Notes: You must first select the color or colors you want to adjust using

Related Commands:
Example: slt 1024

slt i

i

the scl command.

RGB: white output

R: single color output

G: single color output

B: single color output

LVAL is not high during the end-of-line statistics.

els, sut

Generating Test Pattern

Purpose: Generates a test pattern to aid in system debugging. The test

patterns are useful for verifying camera timing and connections.

The following tables show each available test pattern.
Syntax:

Syntax Elements:
0 Normal video
1 Horizontal ramp
2 Diagonal ramp
3 Vertical ramp
4 0xAA-0x55 alternating pixel pattern per color
5 8 pixels of 0x00 followed by 8 pixels of 0xFF on all

6 DC value
7 FPN demo
8 PRNU demo
9 All 4095 (to get FPN)
10 All 2048 (to get PRNU)
Notes:
Example:

Examples of the horizontal ramp test pattern (svm 1):

PC-30-02K80

svm i

i

colors, repeating

svm 1

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 61

≤

PC-30-04K80

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.

Returning a Single Line of Video

Purpose: Returns a complete line of video (without pixel coefficients

applied) displaying one pixel value after another. After pixel
values have been displayed it also displays the minimum,
maximum, and mean value of the line sampled within the region
of interest (the region of interest command is explained in section
Setting a Region of Interest (ROI)).
Use the gl command, or the following
the proper video input range into the processing chain before
executing any pixel calibration commands.

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Pixel start number. Must be less than the pixel end number

Pixel end number. Must be greater than or equal to the pixel

Notes:

Related Commands
Example:

gl x1 x2
x1

in a range from 1 to n (sensor resolution), where n = 2048
or 4086.

x2

start number in a range from 1 to n (sensor resolution),
where n = 2048 or 4086.

If x2
Values returned are in 12-bit DN.

roi
gl 10 20

x1 then x2 is forced to be x1.

gla command, to ensure

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 62

≤

Returning the Average of Multiple Lines of Video

Purpose: Returns the average for multiple lines of video data (without pixel

coefficients applied). The number of lines to sample is set and
adjusted by the css command. The camera displays the Min.,
Max., and Mean statistics for the pixels in the region of interest
(the region of interest command is explained in section

Region of Interest (ROI)).
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Pixel start number. Must be less than the column end

Pixel end number. Must be greater than or equal to the

Notes:

Related Commands:
Example:

gla x1 x2

x1

number in a range from 1 to n, where n = 2048 or 4096
depending on the resolution.

x2

column start number in a range from 1 to n, where n = 2048
or 4096 depending on the resolution.

If x2

Analog gain, analog offset, digital offset, background subtract,

and digital system gain are applied to the data. FPN and PRNU

coefficients are not included in the data.

Values returned are in 12 bit DN.

css, roi

gla 10 20

x1 then x2 is forced to be x1.

Setting a

Setting the Number of Lines to Sample

Purpose: Sets the number of lines to sample when using the gla

command or when performing FPN and PRNU calibration.
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Number of lines to sample. Allowable values are 1024,

Notes: To return the current setting, use the gcp command or get

Related Commands:

css m

m

2048, or 4096.

css.

gla, ccf, ccp, cpa

Temperature Measurement

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

Note: If the camera reaches 75°C, the camera will shutdown and the LED will flash red.
If this occurs, the camera must be rebooted using the command,
down manually. You will not be able to restart the camera until the temperature is less
than 65°C. You will have to correct the temperature problem or the camera will
shutdown again. The camera allows you to send the
while it is in this state.

vt (verify temperature) command

rc or can be powered

Voltage Measurement

The command vv displays the camera’s input voltage. Note that the voltage
measurement feature of the camera provides only approximate results (typically within

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 63

10%). The measurement should not be used to set the applied voltage to the camera but
only used as a test to isolate gross problems with the supply voltage.

Camera Frequency Measurement

Purpose: Returns the frequency for the requested Camera Link control

signal
Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
Camera Link control signal to measure:

Note: Accuracy: ±271 ns

Example:

gsf i

i

1: CC1 (EXSYNC/Blue PR)
2: CC2 (Green PR)
3: CC3 (CCD Direction)
4: CC4 (Spare/Red PR)

Reliable up to 40,000 H

gsf 1

Returning the LED Status

Purpose: Returns the status of the camera’s LED.
Syntax:
The camera returns one of the following values:

Notes:

gsl

2 = green (camera is operating correctly)

5 = flashing green (camera is performing a function)

6 = flashing red (fatal error)

• Refer to section

on the camera LED

2.3 Camera LED for more information

Syntax:

Returning Camera Settings

Returning All Camera Settings with the Camera Parameter Screen

The camera parameter (gcp) screen returns all of the camera’s current settings. The table
below lists all of the gcp screen settings.

To read all current camera settings, use the command:

gcp

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 64

Example: OK>gcp

C A M E R A S E T T I N G S:

Camera Model No.: PC-30-02K60
Camera Serial No.: 3
Microcode Version: 03-081-00166-06
CCI Version: 03-110-20014-01
FPGA Version: 03-056-20031-04
UART Baud Rate: 115200

Set Number, Current: 3
Set Number, Last Settings: 3
Set Number, Last LUT: 3
Set Number, Last FPN: 3
Set Number, Last PRNU: 3
Color: RGB
Video Mode: Normal video
Region Of Interest: 1 to 2048
End-Of-Line Sequence: 1
Number Of Line Samples: 1024
Upper Threshold: White: 4095 Red: 4095 Green: 4095 Blue: 4095
Lower Threshold: White: 0 Red: 0 Green: 0 Blue: 0

Readout Mode: Off
Exposure Mode: 7
SYNC Frequency [Hz]: 10498.7
Exposure Time [uSec]: 95.25
CCD Direction: Internal/Forward
Horizontal Averaging: 1
Camera Link Mode: 16, Medium, 1 taps, 12 bits, no time MUX
Cable Parameter: 100
Output Throughput: 80
Spatial Alignment 0
Mirroring Mode: 0, left to right

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 65

Color Correction Coefficients: White 0 1365 1365 1365

Red 0 4096 0 0
Green 0 0 4096 0
Blue 0 0 0 4096
Input LUT: Off
FPN Coefficients: Off
PRNU Coefficients: Off
Analog Gain [dB]: Red 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
Green 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
Blue 10.0 10.0
Analog Reference Gain [dB]: Red 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Green 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Blue 0.0 0.0
Total Analog Gain [dB]: Red 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
Green 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
Blue 10.0 10.0
Analog Offset: Red 80 80 80 80
Green 80 80 80 80
Blue 80 80
Digital Offset: Red 0 0 0 0
Green 0 0 0 0
Blue 0 0
Background Subtract: Red 0 0 0 0
Green 0 0 0 0
Blue 0 0
System Gain: Red 4096 4096 4096 4096
Green 4096 4096 4096 4096
Blue 4096 4096
Background Add: Red 0 0 0 0
Green 0 0 0 0
Blue 0 0
OK>

Returning Camera Settings with Get Commands

You can also return individual camera settings by inserting a “get” in front of the
command that you want to query. If the command has a tap or pixel number parameter,
you must also insert the tap number or pixel number that you want to query. This
command returns the values without the descriptions found on the gcp screen. Refer to
Table 8 below for a list of available commands. To view a help screen listing the
following get commands, use the command

Table 8: Get Commands

Syntax Parameters Description

get ccf x1 x2 Returns the FPN pixel coefficients for the pixel range

indicated.

x1 = Pixel start number
x2= Pixel end number

get ccp x1 x2 Returns the PRNU pixel coefficients for the pixel range

indicated.

x1 = Pixel start number
x2= Pixel end number

get clm

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gh.

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 66

Syntax Parameters Description

get css Returns the number of line samples averaged for pixel

coefficient calculations or for output of gla command.

get dil t a a Displays LUT values.

t = Tap dependent on scl, 0 for all.
a1 = Start LUT address

a2 = Stop LUT address, a1 < a2
get dpc x1 x2 Returns pixel coefficients without formatting.
get ebc Returns blue correction status.

0: Off

1: On

get eil Returns LUTs status.

0: Off

1: On

get els Returns whether the end-of-line statistics are turned off

or on.

0: Off

1: On

get epc Returns whether pixel coefficients are enabled or

disabled.

The first parameter returns the FPN coefficients setting

where:

0 = FPN coefficients disabled

1 = FPN coefficients enabled

The second parameter returns the PRNU coefficients

setting where:

0 = PRNU coefficients disabled

1 = PRNU coefficients enabled

get gcm Returns the camera’s model number
get gcs Returns the camera’s serial number
get gcv Returns the camera’s software version.
get gfc x Returns the FPN pixel coefficient for the pixel indicated.

Only available when a single color is selected.
get gl x1 x2 Returns pixel values for the pixel range specified.
get gla x1 x2 Returns the average of the pixel range indicated.
get gpc x Returns the PRNU pixel coefficient for the pixel

indicated.
get gsf i Returns the frequency of the Camera Link control signal

indicated: 1, 2, 3, or 4.
get gsl Returns the led status.
get lfc Returns the current coefficient set number
get lpc Returns the current coefficient set number.
get lfs Returns the current coefficient set number.
get lus Returns the current coefficient set number.
get roi Returns the current region of interest.
get sab t Returns the current background add value.

t = Tap value.

0 for all taps

1 to 4 for individual tap selection, depending on camera

model.
get sag t Returns the analog gain in dB for the tap indicated

t = Tap value. 0 for all taps or 1 to 4 for individual tap

selection.
get sah Returns the horizontal averaging factor.

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Syntax Parameters Description

get sao t Returns the analog offset for the tap indicated.

t = 0 for all taps or 1 to 4 for individual tap selection.
get sbr Returns the speed of camera serial communication port.
get scb Returns cable parameter.
get scc Returns current color correction coefficients.
get scd Returns the CCD shift direction selection where:

0 = Forward CCD shift direction.

1 = Reverse CCD shift direction.

2 = Externally controlled direction control via CC3.

get scl Return current color selection (rgb, r, g, or b)
get sdo t Returns the digital offset value in DN for the tap

indicated.

t = Tap value. 0 for all taps or 1 to 2 for individual tap

selection.
get sem Returns the current exposure mode:

2 = Internal SYNC, internal PRIN, programmable line

rate and exposure time using commands ssf and set

3 = External SYNC, maximum exposure time

4 = Smart EXSYNC

5 = External SYNC and PRIN

6 = External SYNC, internal PRIN, programmable

exposure time

7 = Internal programmable SYNC, maximum

exposure time.
get set Returns the current exposure time in µs.
get sfc x Returns the FPN coefficient for the pixel number

indicated.

x =pixel number within the range 1 to n, where n =

2048 or 4096 depending on the resolution.
get sfr x1 x2 Returns pixel range of FPN coefficients. x1 <

x2.

get sil t a Returns single LUT entry.

Only available when a single color is selected.

t = tap: 1 to 4

a = LUT address

get slt Returns the current lower threshold value. This

command depends on the color selected previously

using the scl command.
get smm Returns mirroring mode:

0: Off

1: On

get sot Returns output throughput in mega pixels per second

(mps) per color.
get spc x Returns the PRNU coefficient for the specified pixel

number.

This command is only available when a single color is

selected.

x=pixel number within the range 1 to n, where n =

2048 or 4096 depending on the resolution.
get spr x1 x2 Returns the pixel range of PRNU coefficients. x1 <

x2.

get ssb t Returns the current background subtract value.

t = Tap value. 0 for all taps or 1 to 4 for individual tap

selection depending on camera model.
get ssf Returns the current line rate in Hz. Only available while

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Syntax Parameters Description

in internal exposure modes.
get ssg t Returns the current digital gain setting.

t = tap selection, either 1 to 4 depending on camera

model, or 0 for all taps
get ssn Returns current set number.
get sut Returns the current upper threshold value.
get svm Returns the current video mode.

0: Normal video

1: Horizontal ramp

2: Diagonal ramp

3: Vertical ramp

4: n/a

5: n/a

6: DC value

7: FPN demo

8: PRNU demo

9: All 4095 (to get FPN)

10: All 2048 (to get PRNU)

11: Power toggle

12: All 320 to FPN offset

13: All zeros

14: All ones

get ugr t Returns the gain reference value.

t = tap selection: 1 to 4 depending on camera model,

or 0 for all taps.
get vt Returns the camera’s internal chip temperature in

degrees Celsius.
get vv Returns the camera’s supply voltage.
get wfc Returns the current coefficient set number.
get wil Returns the current coefficient set number.
get wpc Returns the current coefficient set number.
get wus Returns the current coefficient set number.

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4

4

Optical and Mechanical
Considerations

4.1 Mechanical Interface

Figure 9: Piranha Color Camera Mechanical Dimensions

88.9
OPTICAL

DISTANCE

46.5

M3x0.5

5.0 DEE P
2X

49.0

53.4

GREEN

CHANNEL

BLUE CH AN NE L

F-MOUNT

CONFIGURATION

62.0

M72 MOUNT

CONFIGURATION

NOTES:

1) TOLERANCE (UNLESS
OTHERWISE SPECIFIED)
.XX ±.30

.X .5

2) ROTATION WRT CA MERA EDGE
IS .2 MAX

~

19.56
OPTICAL

DISTANCE

±

7.5

RECOMMENDED AIR FLOW

38.0

61.0

22.8

(TOP AND B OTTOM)

37.6

5.0

1/4- 20 UNC

9.0 DEE P

16.0

39.1

22.9

6.0 2X

6.56 ±.25
OPTICAL

32.8 2X

RED

CHANNEL

(42.50)

5.4 2X

DETAIL A

M3x0.5 X 5.0 DEEP

85.0

10.0

4X

42.5 ±.05

(SEE DETA IL A)

M2x0. 4 X 7. 0 DEE P
4X

14.6

PIXEL 1

3.5 69.0

64.00 2X

46.81 2X

23.66 ±.05 (2K)

17.52 ±.05 (4K)

76.0

46.8 2X

19.1 2X

IMAGE
CENTER

78.0 2X

3.5 2X

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 70

4.2 Optical Interface

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,
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

important than the rate at which it arrives. For example, 5μJ/cm

2

exposing 5mW/cm

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.

http://vfm.dalsa.com/,

2

can be achieved by

Halogen light sources generally provide very little blue relative to infrared light (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™
LS-750, 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.

is the image height.

′

) is the distance from the second principal point to the

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 71

)

Figure 10: Primary Points in a Lens System

SECOND PRINCIPAL POINT

SECOND FOCAL POINT

f

OBJECT

HEIGHT (h)

LIGHT RAYS FROM LEFT

FIRST PRINCIPAL

OPTICA L AXI S

OBJECT

DISTANCE (OD)

POINT

BACK FOCAL LENGTH.

IMAG E SI DEOBJECT SIDE

Magnification and Resolution

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

h '

—

m =

h

By similar triangles, the magnification is alternatively given by:

f '

—

m=

OD

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

h '

f '

—

–

=

OD

h

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).

10 µm

—=
100 µm

45 mm
—

OD

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.

OD=450 mm (0.450 m

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 73

5

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
IT-P4 used in the Piranha Color 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: Charge buildup will affect the camera’s flat-field correction calibration. To
avoid an erroneous calibration, ensure that you perform flat-field correction only after a

!

charge buildup has dissipated over 24 hours.

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.

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

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 74

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

Use compressed air to blow off loose particles. This step alone is usually sufficient to
clean the sensor window.

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

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.

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.

Wipe the window carefully and slowly.

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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6

6

6.1 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

• software • host computer

• light sources • optics

• operating environment • encoder

LED

When the camera is first powered up, the LED will glow on the back of the camera.
Refer to section 2.3 for information on the LED.

Connections

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

Cable Length/Type

Ensure that cable lengths are no longer than 10m. Use the scb command to select the
correct cable parameter for the cable length.

Equipment Requirements

Ensure that you are using compatible equipment.

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 received from the factory, it defaults (no external input required) to
exposure mode 7 (5000 Hz line rate, internal Sync to trigger readout). After a user has
saved settings, the camera powers up with the saved settings.

If you change to an exposure mode that requires an external sync, ensure that you are
providing an external sync

Communications and Verify Parameters

TBD

Verify Voltage

To check the camera’s input voltage, use the vv command. The supplied voltage must
be within specification. Erratic behavior may occur at low voltages. Voltages will be
reduced through the use of lengthy power supple cables.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 76

Verify Temperature

To check the internal temperature of the camera, us the vt command.

6.2 Specific Solutions

Camera Does Not Respond to Serial Commands

Verify that the baud rate of the communications software matches that of the camera.
The camera always powers up at 9,600 bps.

Flashing Red LED on Power-up

This indicates a serious error. There will be no camera output and the serial interface
will only respond to a limit set of commands. An error message is sent in response to
all commands. Refer to Appendix A5 for a description of these errors and the action to
take.

Erratic Behavior

Use the vv command in order to verify that the supplied voltage is within specification.

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 if camera is in exposure
mode that requires 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 useable line rate under the current operating conditions and that it is free from
noise.

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.

Noisy Output

Check your power supply voltage outputs for noise. Noise present on these lines can
result in poor video quality.

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

5. is approximately one finger-width

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.

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.

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 77

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

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

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 78

6.3 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
email
Complete Product Model
Number

(e.g. PC-30-04K80.)

Complete Serial Number

Your DALSA Agent or Dealer

Acquisition System hardware
(frame grabber, host computer,
light sources, etc.)
Power supply setting and
current draw

Data rate used

Control signals used in your
application, and their frequency
or state (if applicable)
Voltage reported by the vv
command and voltage range
reported by the ? vvRange
command.
gcp screen Please attach text received from the camera when the

gcl log Please attach text received from the camera in

Detailed description of problem
encountered.

 EXSYNC  Camera Link
 Other _______

gcp command is run.

response to the gcl command. (This is a log of the
last 50 commands and the camera's response to
them.)
Please attach description with as much detail as
appropriate.

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

North America Europe Asia

Voice:

Fax:
Email:

DALSA 03-032-10211-01 5/9/2007

519-886-6000 [phone]-886-6000

519-886-8023 [phone]-886-8023

[e-mail] [e-mail] [e-mail]

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 79

Parameters:

t = tap id
i = integer value
f = float
m = member of a

set
s = string
x = pixel column
number
y = pixel row
number

Appendix A: ASCII Command Reference

ASCII Commands: Reference

The following table lists and describes all of the camera’s available ASCII commands.

Table 9: Command Quick Reference

Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

correction calibrate fpn ccf Performs FPN calibration and

eliminates FPN noise by subtracting
away individual pixel dark current.
Measures FPN (dark current). Use the
epc command to enable subtracting
these values from the video. Use wfc
to write these values to non-volatile
memory.

calculate camera gain ccg

correction calibrate prnu ccp Performs PRNU calibration in order to

calibrate input LUT cil Calibrates the input lookup table

camera link mode clm Selects the CameraLink mode.
calculate PRNU

cpa i1 i2 Performs PRNU calibration according

algorithm

i t i

Calculates the camera gain according
to the selected algorithm.

i = Calibration algorithm to use.
1 = This algorithm adjusts analog gain

so that 8% to 13% of tap ROI pixels
are above the specified target value.
2 = This algorithm adjusts analog gain
so that the average pixel value in tap’s
ROI is equal to the specified target
value.
3 = This algorithm adjusts digital
(system) gain so that the average pixel
value in tap’s ROI is equal to the
specified target.
4= This algorithm adjusts the analog
gain so that the peak tap ROI pixels
are adjusted to the specified target.

t = Tap value. Use 0 for all taps or
1 or 4 for individual tap selection

depending on the color selected using
the scl command.
i = Calibration target value in a range
from 1024 to 4055DN (12 bit LSB).

eliminate the difference in responsivity
between the pixels to create a uniform
response to light.

(LUT). The LUTs are used to remove
nonlinearity from the analog chain.

to the selected algorithm.

i1 = The calibration algorithm:
1 = The algorithm first adjusts each

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 80

)

Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

tap’s analog gain so that 8-13% of
pixels within a tap are above the value
specified in the target value parameter.
PRNU calibration then occurs using
the peak pixel in the region of interest.
(Identical to ccp)
2 = Calculates the PRNU coefficients
using the entered target value as shown
below:

PRNU Coefficient =

(AVG Pixel Va lue) - (FP N + va lue

Target

sdo

The calculation is performed for all
sensor pixels but warnings only apply
to pixels in the region of interest. This
algorithm is useful for achieving
uniform output across multiple
cameras.
3 = This algorithm includes an analog
gain adjustment prior to PRNU
calibration. Analog gain is first adjusted
so that the peak pixel value in tap’s
ROI is within 97 to 99% of the
specified target value. It then calculates
the PRNU coefficients using the target
value as shown below:

PRNUCoefficient=

i

(AVGPixelValu e)‐ (FPN+valu e)

Tar g et

i

sdo

i

The calculation is performed for all
sensor pixels but warnings only apply
to pixels in the region of interest. This
algorithm is useful for achieving
uniform output across multiple
cameras.
4 = This algorithm is the same as 2
with the exception that it only
calculates PRNU for the pixels within
the current Region of Interest (ROI).
The second parameter is the target
value to use in a range from 1024 to

4055 DN.
i2 = Output target.

correction set sample css m Sets the number of lines to sample

when using the gla command or
when performing FPN and PRNU
calibration where m is 1024, 2048,
or 4096.

display input LUT dil t a1 a2 Displays the range of input LUT

values, where:
t = Tap number: 0 for all. The range
is modified by the color selected.

a1 = Range start address: 0 to 1023.
a2 = Range stop address: 0 to 1023.

a1 ≤ a2

display pixel coeffs dpc x1 x2 Displays the pixel coefficients in the

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Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 81

Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

order FPN, PRNU, FPN, PRNU, …

x1 = Pixel start number
x2= Pixel end number
in a range from 1 to n. Where n =
2048 or 4096.

enable blue correction ebc i Enable blue correction, where:

0: Disable/Off
1: Enable/On

enable input LUT eil i Enable input LUT, where:

0: Off
1: On

end of line sequence els i Sets the end-of-line sequence:

0: Off
1: On
2: LVAL (video and statistics)

enable pixel coefficients epc i1 i2 Sets whether pixel coefficients are

enabled or disabled.
The first parameter sets the FPN
coefficients where i1 is:

0 = FPN coefficients disabled
1 = FPN coefficients enabled

The second parameter sets the PRNU
coefficients where i2 is:

0 = PRNU coefficients disabled
1 = PRNU coefficients enabled

get command log gcl Displays the last 50 commands and the

camera's response to them.
get camera model gcm Displays the camera model number.
get camera parameters gcp Displays all of the camera parameters.
get camera serial gcs Displays the camera serial number.
get camera version gcv Displays the camera's firmware

versions.
get values get s Displays the current value of the

parameter(s) set by the command s.
get fpn coefficient gfc x Read the FPN coefficient

x = pixel number to read in a range

from 1 to n. Where n = 2048 or 4096.
get help gh Returns all of the available “get”

commands.
get input LUT gil t a Display a single LUT value. Must

select a color with SCL first.

t = Tap number; 0 for all; range

modified by color selected

a = LUT address; 0 to 1023
get line gl x1 x2

Gets a line of video (without pixel

coefficients applied) displaying one

pixel value after another and the

minimum, maximum, and mean value

of the sampled line.

x1 = Pixel start number

x2 = Pixel end number

in a range from 1 to n. Where n =

2048 or 4096.

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Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

get line average gla x1 x2

Read the average of line samples.

x1 = Pixel start number

x2 = Pixel end number

in a range from 1 to n. Where n =

2048 or 4096.
get prnu coeff gpc x Displays a PRNU coefficient.

x = pixel number to read in a range

from 1 to n. Where n = 2048 or 4096.
get signal frequency gsf i Reads the requested Camera Link

control frequency.

1 = EXSYNC frequency

2 = CC2

3 = Direction

4 = CC4

help h Display the online help.
load FPN coefficients lfc Loads the FPN coefficients from non-

volatile memory to current. This

command is modified by the ssn

command.
load factory settings lfs Loads the camera’s factory settings

LUT, FPN and PRNU coefficients.

Also used to clear a fatal error if the

user settings are corrupt at power up.
load input LUT lil Load input LUT’s from non-volatile

memory to current. Modified by the

ssn command.
load pixel coefficients lpc Load the previously saved PRNU

coefficients from non-volatile memory.

Modified by the ssn command.
load user settings lus Load the camera user settings from

non-volatile memory. Modified by the

ssn command.
reset camera rc Resets the entire camera (reboot).

Baud rate is not reset and reboots with

the value last used.
reset input LUT ril Set all values in all current LUT’s to

zero.
region of interest roi x1 x2 Sets the pixel range affected by the

ccg, gl, gla, cil, ccf, ccp,

and cpa commands. The parameters

are the pixel start and end values (x).
reset pixel coeffs rpc Resets the FPN and PRNU

coefficients to 0.
set add background sab ti Set 12 bit value to add at end of digital

chain.

t = Tap; 0 to 4 depending on color

selected; 0 for all taps

i = Value to add
set analog gain sag t f Sets the analog gain in dB.

t = tap selection, either 1 or 4

depending on the color selected, or 0

for all taps.

f= gain value specified from –10

to

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Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

+10 dB
set analog offset sao t i Sets the analog offset.

t = tap selection, 1 to 4 depending on

color selected, or 0 for all taps.

i= Offset value in a range from 0 to

255 (12-bit LSB). Set to three time

RMS noise at high gain.
set averaging horizontal sah i Sets the number of horizontal pixels to

average. Available values are 1 (factory

settings) and 2.
set baud rate sbr i

Set the speed of camera serial

communication port. Baud rates:

9600, 19200, 57600, and

115200. Power on default: 9600.

select cable scb i Sets the cable parameter. Increase this

value for longer cables and decrease

the value for shorter cables.
set color correction scc i1 i2 i3 i4 Set how three video streams from the

CCD are combined to provide the four

(red, green, blue, and luminance)

output streams. Use SCL to select the

color, RGB for luminance, to modify.

i1 = Offset (0 to 4095)

i2 = Red multiplier (-8192 to 8191)

i3 = Green multiplier (-8192 to 8191)

i4 = Blue multiplier (-8192 to 8191)

Multipliers are divided by 4096 to get

the actual factor.
set ccd direction scd i Sets the CCD shift direction where:

0 = Forward CCD shift direction.

1 = Reverse CCD shift direction.

2 = Externally controlled direction

control via CC3.
set color scl s rgb/r/g/b
set digital offset sdo t i Subtracts this value from the video

signal prior to FPN correction.

t = tap selection, 1 to 4 depending on

color selected, or 0 for all taps.

i = Offset in a range from 0 to 4095.
set exposure mode sem m Sets the exposure mode:

2 = Internal line rate and exposure

time set using commands ssf and

set

3 = External SYNC, maximum

exposure time

4 = Smart EXSYNC

5 = External SYNC and PRIN

6 = External SYNC, internal exposure

time set using SET command

7 = Internal line rate, maximum

exposure time. Factory setting.
set exposure time set f Sets the exposure time. Refer to the

camera help screen (h command) for

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Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

allowable range.
set fpn coeff sfc x i Set the FPN coefficient. First must

select a single color with SCL.

x =pixel number within the range 1 to

n. Where n = 2048 or 4096.

i= FPN value within the range 0 to

4095 (12-bit LSB).

set fpn range sfr x x i Set a range of pixel FPN coefficients.

First must select a single color with

SCL.

x1=first pixel number of the range.

x2=last pixel number of the range

i=coefficient value in a range from 0

to 4095.
set input LUT sil t a i Set a single value in a LUT. First must

select a single color with SCL.

t = Tap; 1 to 4 depending on color

a = Address within LUT; 0 to 1023

i = Value; -256 to 255

set lower threshold slt i The pixels below the lower threshold

are counted and reported in the end-

of-line sequence.

i = Threshold in a range from 0-

4095.

set mirroring mode smm i Set mirroring mode:

0 = Left to right

1 = Right to left

set output throughput sot m Sets the camera's total throughput per

color. Valid values are: 30, 40, 60, or

80 mega-pixels per second per color.
set prnu coeff spc x i Set a PRNU coefficient. First must

select a single color with SCL.

x=pixel number within the range 1 to

n. Where n = 2048 or 4096.

i= PRNU value within the range 0 to

61438.

set prnu range spr i1 i2 x Set a range of pixel PRNU coefficients.

First must select a single color with

SCL.

i1 = first pixel number of the range

i2 = last pixel number of the range

x = coefficient value in a range from 0

to 61438.
set readout mode srm i Select vertical transfer dark clear mode.

0 = Auto, clears dark below

approximately 60% of maximum line

rate

1 = Always clears dark; reduces the

maximum line rate

2 = Off
set spatial alignment ssa i Set line delay between colors. 0 to 6.
set subtract background ssb t i Subtract this value from the output

signal.

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Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

t = Tap value. 0 for all taps or 1 to

number of camera taps the color

selected.

i = Subtracted value in a range from 0

to 4095.
set sync frequency ssf f Set internal line rate. 1Hz to 22,714

Hz (2k model) or 12,132 Hz (4k

model).
set system gain ssg t i Set the digital gain.

t = tap selection, 0 for all taps or 1 to

number of camera taps for color

i = Digital gain in a range from 0 to

65,535. The digital video values are

multiplied by this number divided by

4,096.
set select number ssn i Set number for write/load settings

commands:

0 = Factory set (load only)

1-4 = Internal user sets

set upper threshold sut i The pixels equal to or greater than the

upper threshold are counted and

reported in the end-of-line sequence.

i = Threshold 0-4095.
set video mode svm i Switch between normal video mode

and camera test patterns:

0: Normal video

1: Horizontal ramp

2: Diagonal ramp

3: Vertical ramp

4: N/A - A5 pattern

5: N/A - Data transmission

6: DC value

7: FPN demo

8: PRNU demo

9: All 4095 (to get FPN)

10: All 2048 (to get PRNU)

11: Power toggle

12: All 320 - FPN offset

13: All zeros

14: All ones
update gain reference ugr For all taps, changes 0 dB gain to equal

the current analog gain value.
verify temperature vt Display the internal temperature of the

camera.
verify voltage vv Display the voltage supplied to the

camera.
write FPN coefficients wfc Write current FPN coefficients to non-

volatile memory set previously using

the ssn command.
write input LUT wil Write current LUT’s to non-volatile

memory set previously using the ssn

command.
write PRNU coeffs wpc Write current PRNU coefficients to

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Mnemonic Syntax Parameters Description

non-volatile memory set previously

using the ssn command.
write user settings wus Write current camera settings to non-

volatile memory set previously using

the ssn command.

A5 Error Handling

The following table lists warning and error messages and provides a description and
possible cause. Warning messages are returned when the camera cannot meet the full
value of the request; error messages are returned when the camera is unable to complete
the request.

Table 10: Warning and Error Messages

Message Description

Warning 01:
Outside of
specification>

Warning 02:
Clipped to min>

Warning 03:
Clipped to max>

Warning 04: Related
parameters
adjusted>

Warning 07:
Coefficient may be
inaccurate A/D
clipping has
occurred>

Warning 08: Greater
than 1% of
coefficients have
been clipped>

Warning 09:
Internal line rate
inconsistent with
read out time>

Error Message Description

Error 01: Internal
error xx>

Error 02:
Unrecognized
command>

Error 03: Incorrect
number of
parameters>

Parameter accepted was outside of specified operating range (e.g. gain
greater than ±10 dB of factory setting, or SSF below specification).

Parameter was clipped to the current operating range. Use GCP or
GET to see value used.

Parameter was clipped to the current operating range. Use GCP or
GET to see value used.

Internal operating condition is adjusted to accommodate the entered
command. E.g. requesting exposure time longer than line time
automatically adjusts the line time to meet the exposure time
requirement.

In the region of interest (ROI) greater than 6.251% single or 1% of
averaged pixel values were zero or saturated.

Greater than 1% of FPN or PRNU coefficients have been calculated to
be greater than the maximum allowable and so were clipped.

Changes to the parameter (e.g. horizontal averaging) have changed read
out time and that is greater than the internal SYNC.

Where xx is a code list below.
Only output during power up.
Customer should contact Dalsa customer support.

Command is not valid (or not available at the current access level).

Too many or too few parameters.

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Message Description

Error 04: Incorrect
parameter value>

This error is returned for:

- Alpha character received instead of numeric character or visa versa.

- Float where integer expected.

- Not an element of the set of possible values. E.g., Baud Rate.

- Outside the range limit

Error 05: Command

E.g. Set sync frequency (ssf) when in external sync mode 3 (sem).
unavailable in this
mode>

Error 06: Timeout> Command not completed in time. E.g. CCF or CCP in SEM 3 when

no external EXSYNC is present.
Error 07: Camera

settings not saved>

Indicates that user settings have been corrupted by turning off the

power while executing the WUS command. Must build up new settings

from factory and re-save with WUS.

Also present during manufacturing before settings saved for first time.
Error 08: Unable to

Cannot calibrate a tap that is not part of the end of line statistics.
calibrate - tap
outside ROI>

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Appendix B: Blue Correction Command

Note: This command applies to the PC-30-0xK80 cameras only.

The 80 mega-pixel camera models (PC-30-02K80 and PC-30-04K80) show an artifact at
the mid-point of the blue taps. The blue correction command enables replacing these
pixels with interpolated values.

Affected pixels:

Model 1st Blue Tap 2nd Blue Tap

PC-30-02K80 516, 517, 519, 520 1536, 1537, 1539, 1540
PC-30-04K80 1025, 1026, 1028, 1029 3067, 3068, 3070, 3071

The interpolation equation is as follows and includes green pixel data:

Blue: [B1][B2][B3][B4]

Green: [G1][G2][G3][G4]

B2 = G2 + ((B1 – G1) + (B4 – G4)) / 2

B3 = G3 + ((B1 – G1) + (B4 – G4)) / 2

if (B <= 0)

B = (B1 + B4) / 2

if (B > 4095)

B = 4095

This value is saved with the WUS command.

This value may be viewed on the GCP screen or with the GET EBC command.

Enabling blue correction

Syntax:
Syntax Elements:
0: disable

Notes This value is saved using the wus command.

ebc i
i

1: enable

This value may be viewed on the gcp screen or by sending the
get ebc command.

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Appendix C: EMC Declaration of Conformity

We, DALSA

605 McMurray Rd.,
Waterloo, ON

CANADA N2V 2E9
declare under sole responsibility, that the product(s):
xx-xx-xxxxx

xx-xx-xxxxx

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 xxxxx 2006
Name and Signature of

authorized person

This Declaration corresponds to EN 45 014.

Hank Helmond

Quality Manager, DALSA Corp.

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Appendix D: Revision History

Revision
Number

00 Preliminary release
01 -"rfs" commands substituted with "lfs" commands (no change to

Change Description

command performance). "i" parameter removed from "wpc," "wfc,"
and "wil" commands descriptions. These commands use the "ssn"
command to indicate the storage set. Parameter 5 (PC set. Selects
transfer from PC) removed from command "ssn". This parameter is
not in the current cameras.

-Extensive updates throughout manual. Manual remains preliminary.

-Base and medium configuration timing tables updated.

-Product name revised from PC-30-02k40 and 04k40 to PC-30-02k60
and 04k60.

-Blue correction enable command and algorithm added.

-Revised and added information to the Generating a Test Pattern
section, page 60. Example test patterns added.

-Set Binning Horizontal (sbh) command replaced with Set Averaging
Horizontal (sah) command. Horizontal average replaces horizontal
binning.

-Added Warning 09: Changing this parameter (e.g. vertical binning)
has changed read out time and that is greater than the internal SYNC,
to table 10: Warnings and Errors.

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Index

A

analog

gain, 39, 40, 41

processing, 37
applications, 7
average horizontal

setting, 36

B

background subtract, 49
blue correction command, 89
bright lines, 76

C

camera

dimensions, 69

messages, 86
Camera Link

connector, 17

outputs, 17
camera settings. See settings
clocking signals, 17
coefficients

diabling, 48

enabling, 48

loading, 48

resetting, 48
command

format, 23

parameters, 23
commands

list, 79
conectors

Camera Link, 17
connectors

Hirose, 16

power, 16

E

electrical

specifications, 9, 11

EMC Declaration of

Conformity, 91
enable blue correction, 89
end-of-line sequence, 58
error messages, 86
exposure mode

overview, 31
setting, 31

exposure time

setting, 33

EXSYNC, 17

troubleshooting, 75

external trigger, 17

F

fiber-optic light sources, 70
filters, 70
flat field correction

errors, 48
restrictions, 43
results, 48

FPN

coefficient, 45
correction, 44

FVAL, 17

G

gain, 40

analog, 39
calibrating, 40
digital, 50, 51
ranges, 8, 10

H

D

dark calibration. See flat field

correction
dark patches, 76
data bus, 17
data rate, 8, 10
digital

gain, 50, 51
offset, 49
processing, 37

direction

externally controlled, 27, 28

DVAL, 17

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halogen light sources, 70
help, 25
Hirose connector, 16
hot mirror, 70

I

illumination, 70
incorrect line rate, 76
inputs (user bus), 17
interface

electrical, 9, 11
mechanical, 9, 11
optical, 9, 11, 70

Piranha Color Camera User’s Manual 96

L

LED, 16
lens

modeling, 70

light calibration. See flat field

correction
light sources, 70
line delay between colors

setting, 36
line dropout, 76
line rate, 8, 10

setting, 33
line statistics, 61
LVAL, 17

M

magnification, 71
mechanical

drawing, 69

specifications, 9, 11

N

noisy output, 76

O

product support, 78

R

rebooting, 24
resolution, 8, 10
restoring

factory settings, 52
revision history, 93
roi. See Region of Interest

S

sensor, 12

cleaning, 73
settings

factory, 24

restoring, 52

returning, 63, 65

saving, 52
specifications

electrical, 9, 11

mechanical, 9, 11

optical, 9, 11
statistics, 61
STROBE, 17
subtracting background, 49
sync frequency, 63

offset

analog, 41

digital, 49
online help, 25
optical

specifications, 9, 11
optical interface, 70
output signals, 17

T

Technical Sales Support, 78
temperature

measurement, 62

threshold

lower, 60
upper, 59

trigger

external, 17

P

performance specifications, 8,

10
pixel statistics, 61
power

connectors, 16
guidelines, 16

PRNU

coefficient, 47
correction, 46

V

video data, 62
voltage

measurement, 62

W

warning messages, 86

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