FLIR Tau CNV User Manual

Tau CNV

User’s Manual

10-10032-01 2011 FLIR Advanced Imaging Systems ECO: 594
Rev A1 Tau CNV Camera User’s Manual Page 1 of 49

Tau Color Night Vision Camera

FLIR Advanced Imaging Systems, Inc.

FLIR Advanced Imaging Systems (AIS) produces a wide range of high performance cameras for applications that
demand high resolution, high data rates, wide dynamic range, high sensitivity (low light), low power and small form
factors (space claim) packaging. FLIR AIS satisfies the needs of our customers by applying the best camera sensor
technologies to our customers’ challenging applications, and coupling these sensor technologies with low noise and
precision analog design, proprietary thermal stabilization, and real-time image processing. FLIR AIS’ cameras are
designed and built in our ISO certified facility and each camera is 100% tested and inspected using the photon
transfer curve methods and best manufacturing practices to verify performance to technical specifications and to
ensure total product quality.

FLIR AIS designs, develops, and manufactures its high performance cameras at its facility in Colorado Springs,
Colorado, USA, and is part of FLIR Systems Inc., a world leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of
sensor systems that enhance perception and awareness for a wide variety of users in the commercial, industrial, and
government markets, internationally as well as domestically.

Contact Information:

FLIR Systems, Inc.

FLIR Advanced Imaging Systems, Inc.

5061 North 30
Colorado Springs, CO 80919 USA
[phone] phone
[phone] fax

http://www.flir.com/cvs/cores
[e-mail]

th

Street, Suite 103

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Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 6

2 CAMERA POWER ................................................................................................................ 6

2.1 IMPORTANT SYSTEM GROUNDING REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................ 6

2.2 IMPORTANT POWER-UP SEQUENCING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 6

2.3 IMPORTANT CLEANING AND LENS INSTALLATION INFORMATION .................................................................. 6

3 CAMERA FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS ....................................................................... 7

3.1 HIGH DEFINITION, 1280 X 1024 IMAGER ........................................................................................................ 7

3.2 PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC SHUTTER ....................................................................................................... 8

3.3 AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL .......................................................................................................................... 8

3.4 AUTOMATIC COLOR AND WHITE BALANCE .................................................................................................... 8

3.5 SELECTABLE NOISE SUPPRESSION .................................................................................................................. 8

3.6 INTEGRATED, MOTORIZED, IR CUT FILTER OPTION ....................................................................................... 9

3.7 TRIGGER MODES - FREE RUN, OR EXTERNAL TRIGGER .................................................................................. 9

3.8 FLAT FIELDING (NON-UNIFORMITY CORRECTION)....................................................................................... 10

3.9 DIGITAL AND ANALOG VIDEO OUTPUT OPTIONS ......................................................................................... 10

3.10 SMALL SPACE-CLAIM AND LOW POWER REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................ 10

3.11 EFFECTIVE DAY AND NIGHT COLOR THROUGH BUILT-IN FILTER SLIDER (OPTIONAL) ................................. 10

4 CAMERA SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................................... 11

4.1 CAMERA SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 11

4.2 QUANTUM EFFICIENCY (QE) RESPONSE CURVES ......................................................................................... 13

5 THEORY OF OPERATION ............................................................................................... 14

5.1 CAMERA LAYOUT ......................................................................................................................................... 14

5.2 LENS MOUNT ASSEMBLY ............................................................................................................................. 14

5.3 TAU CNV CMOS SENSOR ........................................................................................................................... 16

5.4 SENSOR MOUNT AND HEAT SINK ................................................................................................................. 17

5.5 CAMERA ELECTRONICS ................................................................................................................................ 17

5.5.1 Sensor Bias and Interface .................................................................................................................... 17

5.5.2 Clock and Control Circuitry ................................................................................................................ 17

5.5.3 Power Conditioning and Distribution .................................................................................................. 17

5.5.4 Camera Interface .................................................................................................................................. 18

6 CAMERA INTERFACING ................................................................................................ 19

6.1 LVDS PARALLEL DATA COMMUNICATION .................................................................................................. 19

6.1.1 Power Connector ................................................................................................................................. 20

6.1.2 Parallel Data Connector ....................................................................................................................... 20

6.2 GROUP INTERFACE ....................................................................................................................................... 22

6.2.1 Group Interface Default Settings ......................................................................................................... 22

6.2.2 Power Connector ................................................................................................................................. 23

6.2.3 Camera Link ........................................................................................................................................ 23

6.2.4 Analog Video Output and Serial Interface (default configuration) ...................................................... 25

6.2.5 Trigger In/Out ...................................................................................................................................... 25

6.2.6 Trigger In Mode ................................................................................................................................... 26

6.2.7 Trigger Out Mode ................................................................................................................................ 26

6.2.8 Video IRIS (future) .............................................................................................................................. 26

7 MECHANICAL DETAIL ................................................................................................... 26

7.1 HOUSING & MATERIALS ............................................................................................................................... 26

7.2 DIMENSIONS ................................................................................................................................................. 27

7.3 LENS MOUNTING AND BACK FOCUS ADJUSTMENT ...................................................................................... 27

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8 CAMERA MOUNTING & COOLING ............................................................................. 28

8.1 ¼ - 20 MOUNTING HOLE (TRIPOD) ............................................................................................................. 28

8.2 IMPORTANT MOUNTING REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................... 28

9 COMMAND AND CONTROL OF THE CAMERA ........................................................ 29

9.1 FLIR AIS’ CAMERA CONTROL UTILITY ....................................................................................................... 29

9.1.1 Installation ........................................................................................................................................... 29

9.1.2 Camera Connection Screen .................................................................................................................. 39

9.1.3 GUI Advanced User Mode ...................................................................................................................... 42

10 CAMERA CARE AND MAINTENANCE ..................................................................... 48

10.1 MAINTENANCE, RETURNS, AND REPAIR ....................................................................................................... 48

10.2 ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD) ............................................................................................................. 48

10.3 COVER GLASS DAMAGE ............................................................................................................................... 48

10.4 CLEANING THE CAMERA HOUSING ............................................................................................................... 49

11 REVISION CONTROL.................................................................................................... 49

List of Figures

Figure 1: Tau CNV Video Camera ............................................................................................................................... 7

Figure 2: QE Response Curves for Color Camera and Monochrome Cameras .......................................................... 13

Figure 3: CNV Camera (not shown with optional motorized IR-cut Filter for color camera) .................................... 14

Figure 4: Tau CNV Camera with M42 Lens and C-Mount Adapter .......................................................................... 15

Figure 5: Tau CNV Camera with M42 Lens Mount, Integrated IR-Cut Filter Slider (color only), and C-Mount

Adapter ................................................................................................................................................................ 16

Figure 6: Camera Parallel Interface Back Plate Diagram. .......................................................................................... 19

Figure 7: Group Interface Back Panel View ............................................................................................................... 22

Figure 8: Camera Link SDR-26 diagram .................................................................................................................... 23

Figure 9: Dimensions .................................................................................................................................................. 27

List of Tables

Table 1: Tau CNV Camera Specifications

Table 2: Parallel Interface, Power Connector ............................................................................................................. 20

Table 3: Parallel Interface Connector Pinout .............................................................................................................. 20

Table 4: Group Interface Default Configuration ........................................................................................................ 22

Table 5: Parallel Interface, Power Connector ............................................................................................................. 23

Table 6: Camera Link SDR-26 Connector Pin Assignment ....................................................................................... 24

Table 7: USB Mini-B Interface .................................................................................................................................. 25

Table 8: TRIG IN/OUT Interface ................................................................................................................................ 25

1

............................................................................................................... 11



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Copyright and Trademark Notification

This document is subject to change without notice. FLIR Systems, Inc. is not responsible for the use, or
misuse, of the FLIR products that are associated with this document. After using this document, and the
associated referenced documents, you may need to contact FLIR support for additional assistance.

Reference to companies, technologies and trademarks does not imply that those referenced endorse or use
this product.

This document is copyrighted by FLIR Systems, Inc.

Camera Link is a registered trademark of the Automated Imaging Association.

Microsoft, Windows XP and Windows & are registered trademarks of Microsoft.

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1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the FLIR AIS Tau CNV camera.

This user’s manual will give you an overview of the features and functions of your camera, and is part of
a document set:

 User’s Manual to give you an overview of the camera’s features and functions;
 Interface Control Document (ICD) for detailed interface and control information.

Your Tau CNV camera is backed by FLIR’s worldwide service and support team. If you do not find the
information that you need in one of these documents; please contact your sales representative and we will
get your questions answered quickly.

Important Notice:

representative for the latest version of this user’s manual.

This user manual is subject to change without notice. Please contact your FLIR

2 Camera Power

2.1 Important System Grounding Requirements

If you are using the Tau CNV camera with the FLIR 100-240VAC power supply (24-10038-01, 24­20038-01, or 24-30038-01), ensure that a three wire single-phase (hot, neutral, earth-ground) connection
is used as supplied with your power supply. Also note that the TAU CNV camera chassis is isolated from
the earth-ground connection.

2.2 Important Power-Up Sequencing Requirements

The Tau CNV is designed against damage from hot-swapping; however, we recommend that you do not
hot-plug the camera to ensure proper operation. Make all connections to the camera before applying
power.

2.3 Important Cleaning and Lens Installation Information

Care is required when installing a lens to prevent dust from entering the lens mount opening. If dust is
introduced on the imager surface, on models without the automated Day/Night filter slider, you may clean
the surface of the imager using proper cleaning materials and good cleaning techniques for AR coated
glass. However, if your camera came with the automated Day/Night filter slider installed, the camera

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must be returned to the factory for cleaning since this operation requires disassembly and reassembly of
the camera. For this reason, it is recommended that all lens installations be performed under a flow hood
if available.

3 Camera Features and Functions

The FLIR AIS Tau CNV (see Figure 1) is an ultra-low light and small form factor video camera with user
programmable gain and on-chip electronic shuttering that provides large dynamic range and image
processing features that make it suitable for full sunlight to overcast starlight applications.

 Color and Monochrome Low Light Imaging
 High Definition, 1280 x 1024 Imager
 Programmable Electronic Shutter
 Automatic Exposure Control
 Automatic Color and White Balance
 Selectable Noise Filtering
 Integrated, Motorized, IR Cut Filter Option
 Free Run or External Trigger Modes
 Flat Fielding (Non-Uniformity Correction)

Figure 1: Tau CNV Video Camera

 Digital and Analog Video Output Options
 Small Space-Claim and Low Power Requirements

3.1 High Definition, 1280 x 1024 Imager

The Tau CNV uses a CMOS imager with a 6.5μm2 pixel pitch, 5T active pixel type, 1280x1024 high­definition (HD) resolution, and high dynamic range. These features, in addition to the low NEI of < 3E8
photons/cm
to larger and lower performance EMCCD and CCD sensor-based cameras.

The camera supports 960 lines per frame (default) or 720 lines per frame. The camera outputs 1280 pixels
per line, providing an overall frame resolution of 1280x960 or 1280x720.

2

-sec and typical read noise of less than 2 e- make this CMOS technology is a good alternative

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3.2 Programmable Electronic Shutter

The electronic shutter “exposure time” (also known as the “integration time”) is the amount of time the
sensor’s light sensitive pixels will collect charge when exposed to light, and is configurable via serial
command in increments of a “line time” (see ICD). Even though the camera output is 1280 pixels per line
by 960 lines per frame, internal camera functions require 993 lines to be clocked out of the sensor each
frame (Camera output includes a “line valid” signal to indicate which lines are the 960 valid image lines).
The time it takes to clock out a single line from a frame or “line time” is approximately 32.85us
(0.000032853333s). Therefore the minimum frame time for this camera is:

   ∗ 993  32.62

This corresponds to a maximum frame rate of slightly over 30fps.

Exposure time can be set anywhere from one line time (32.85us) to one line time less that the frame
period. At the maximum frame rate this corresponds to 992 * line time or 32.5ms.

The camera may be triggered internally (free running) or externally via the trigger-in pin of the trigger
in/out connector or via the Camera Link CC1 line

3.3 Automatic Gain Control

The automatic gain control (AGC) is used to automatically control the brightness and amount of detail in
the analog output image. The camera’s AGC will adjust the brightness and contrast to a level suitable for
viewing on an analog monitor by adjusting exposure (integration) time and histogram processing.

3.4 Automatic Color and White Balance

In the color version, automatic color and white balance are used for optimal image color production on
the analog video output. The camera sensor measures discrete green, red and blue color intensities
through the use of red, green, and blue filters in a Bayer mosaic pattern. The camera then uses a precision
algorithm to combine these three colors to produce optimal color representation of the image to match the
human visual system (HVS). Due to the wide variety of lighting, scene and other factors that influence
color, the image colors may not be accurately represented in all circumstances.

3.5 Selectable Noise Suppression

The Tau CNV supports noise suppression using image subtraction techniques. Noise suppression allows
frame-to-frame noise to be filtered out to improve image quality, especially for low-light imaging
applications. The amount of noise suppression is programmable (see Tau CNV ICD). Note: This use of
noise suppression can cause image-lag in dynamic scenes.

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3.6 Integrated, Motorized, IR Cut Filter Option

The Tau CNV color camera can be purchased with an integrated, motorized, IR-cut filter option. The lens
mount assembly hosts a motorized two-glass position filter slider mechanism: (1) a BG38 IR-cut filter
for daytime operation to preserve accurate color representation, and (2) a clear glass filter that is used for
low-light imaging applications. A motorized assembly moves the appropriate glass filter into place as
instructed by a serial command.

3.7 Trigger Modes - Free Run, or External Trigger

The camera has two trigger modes: (1) Internal “free run”, and (2) external mode.

When the camera is triggered in Internal (free run) mode, images are continuously output at a frame rate
determined by trigger period. Trigger period resolution is in image line times which are approximately

32.85us (0.000032853333s). Valid trigger period settings are from 993 lines (approximately 30fps) to
29,425 lines (about 1fps). See the ICD for details on setting trigger period.

If attempts are made to set the trigger period to values greater than 29,425 lines, camera firmware
internally limits the actual setting to the 29,425 line maximum. If the trigger period register is set to
values less than 993 lines the camera will trigger erratically as some triggers will be missed.

In internal trigger mode, exposure or integration time is also configured in terms of line times. Minimum
exposure time can be set to 0 lines however the minimum useful exposure time is 1 line time or 32.85us.
The maximum exposure time is 1 line time less that the period setting. The period setting at max frame
rate (about 30fps) is 993 lines. This means the maximum integration time setting at this frame rate is 992
lines or 32.5ms. See the ICD for details on setting exposure.

In external mode, the rising edge of the trigger-in pulse starts a rolling reset of the sensor lines and the
falling edge of the trigger begins a rolling readout of the imager. Since the input trigger is asynchronous
to the internal camera timing and exposure and readout occur with line time resolution the actual time the
camera recognizes the input trigger rising and falling edges will have an uncertainty of one line time.
Note that this is a rolling shutter, and thus while the exposure time of each line will be consistent; the
exposure time of each line will not be simultaneous.

In external trigger mode the camera may be triggered at periodic rates of 30fps down to taking individual
snapshots. As in internal trigger mode the exposure time can be anywhere from 1 line to the trigger
period minus 1 line time. It should be noted however that practical max exposure time will be limited by
sensor dark current.

When in external trigger mode, care must be taken to ensure that falling edges of the trigger never occur
faster than the max frame rate of 30fps. Due to sensor operation details this can cause the sensor to get
into an invalid state that can take several seconds to recover from.

In external trigger mode, the external trigger pulses can be supplied via the trigger-in pin of the trigger
in/out connector or via the Camera Link CC1 line.

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3.8 Flat Fielding (Non-Uniformity Correction)

Variations in the imager output, pixel-to-pixel within each color, are normalized to a common
response curve using an offset non-uniformity correction (NUC) performed at the factory. The
NUC correction is applied to both the digital and analog video outputs.

3.9 Digital and Analog Video Output Options

The Tau CNV provides both digital and analog video output. The digital output is a NUC corrected RGB
video output and is available using the Parallel or Camera Link interface. The analog video has NUC,
color, white balance and contrast corrections (as enabled) and is available in NTSC or PAL (future)
formats on the Group Interface and on the Parallel Interface.

3.10 Small Space-Claim and Low Power Requirements

The Tau CNV is designed for OEM applications that require small space claim and low power. The Tau
format provides a very compact camera by using high-density electronic circuitry and board-stacking
topology. Low power is achieved through the balance of performance, the use of low power circuitry and
high efficiency power management.

3.11 Effective Day and Night Color through built-in Filter Slider

(Optional)

Although the camera uses a precision algorithm for color production, an infrared cut (IR Cut) filter, such
as the BG38, should be used to obtain the best quality color. This is due to the physics of light energy.
Infrared (IR) light passes through the red, green, and blue filters of the Bayer pattern equally well
softening the colors by saturation. Through the use of a color daytime filter the colors are true throughout
the day time performance. Filter adjustment to night time operation and back is automatic. With the use
of the night time filter the near IR wavelengths are imaged, allowing enhanced nighttime viewing due to
higher sensitivity but sacrificing true color production. For more mechanical detail on the day/night filter
system see Figure 5. Use of an IR corrected lens is recommended to prevent apparent shifts in focus
when the night time filter is in use.

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4 Camera Specifications

4.1 Camera Specifications

Table 1: Tau CNV Camera Specifications 1

Camera Specification

Image Sensing Color or Monochrome
Pixel Type 6.5um2 5T Active Pixels
Resolution 1280 x 960 and 1280x720 (HD 720p)
Dynamic Range 84 dB1
Shutter Mode Rolling Shutter
Read Noise 2 e- rms 1
Frame Rate 30 FPS @ HD Resolution
Quantum Efficiency >50% at 600nm
Image Lag < 0.1%

Input / Output Specification

14/16-bit Camera Link

Data Format

Trigger / Sync Connector Camera Link CC1 or LVTTL Level
Control & Communications Serial Commands

Communication Protocol

16-bit 3.3V LVCMOS Parallel
NTSC Video

3.3V LVCMOS Parallel
Camera Link
USB
RS-232 (future)

Trigger Specification

Definitions Serial Commands

Modes

External Trigger Source

Synchronization Sync Output Pulse (Trigger Input/Output Connector)

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Free Run (Internal)*, External Trigger
*(with defined integration time)
Camera Link
Trigger Input/Output Connector

Features Specification

Non-Uniformity Correction (NUC)

Image Correction

Gamma
Color Balance (color version only)
Gain

Gain Control Automatic (AGC) and Manual

AGC Region of Interest Selectable

White Balance Automatic and Manual (color version only)

Noise Filtering Multi-level, Selectable

IR Cut Filter Optional, Integrated Motorized Filter (color version only)

Mechanical Specification

Lens Mount M42 with C-mount or F-mount Adapter

Case Dimensions 48 x 49.4 x 64.5 mm

Case Material Aluminum, Alodine, Gold Finish

Lens Mount Material Aluminum, Anodized, Black Finish

Lens Mount Inserts Steel, Stainless

Weight < 175 grams

Environmental Specification

Temperature, Full Performance -20°C to +35°C
Temperature, Degraded Performance +35°C to +50°C
Temperature, Storage -40°C to +55°C
Humidity 95%, Non-Condensing

Power Requirements Specification

Input Voltage 12 VDC ± 5%
Power Consumption < 4W (typical)

Notes:

1. These are the specifications for camera performance at 20 °C. For camera performance

specifications over the operating temperature range, please contact your FLIR representative.

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4.2 Quantum Efficiency (QE) Response Curves

Figure 2: QE Response Curves for Color Camera and Monochrome Cameras

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5 Theory of Operation

5.1 Camera Layout

Figure 3: CNV Camera (not shown with optional motorized IR-cut Filter for color camera)

5.2 Lens Mount Assembly

The lens mount assembly is a mechanical interface that positions and aligns a C-mount, F-mount, or M42
mount lens to the camera focal plane. The lens mount assembly is an M42 mechanical mount that is
properly aligned with the camera sensor mount via precision alignment pins. C-mount and F-mount
lenses interface to the M42 mechanical mount using their associated adapter mechanisms.

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For customers that have their own optics and mechanical mounting housings, the CNV camera can be
used without the M42 lens mount assembly. In this case, the customer uses the sensor mounting plate
precision alignment pins to align the CNV camera focal plane with the customer’s optical assembly.

The M42 can be equipped with the optional motorized IR-cut filter for day and night imaging
applications. The IR-cut filter is an integrated BG38 glass filter for day time color imaging and optical
pass filter for low-light imaging applications. The filter is controlled manually using serial commands, or
under automatic control for detected low-light conditions. The default operation is manual control.

Figure 4: Tau CNV Camera with M42 Lens and C-Mount Adapter

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