Hamamatsu Photonics C8484-16C Instruction Manual

75100301-01

Digital CCD Camera

C8484-16C

Instruction Manual

Thank you for your purchase

CAUTION

• Follow the safety precautions in Chapter 1 in order to avoid personal

injury and damage to property when using this camera. The manual
describes the correct handling method of C8484-16C camera and
provides cautions in order to avoid accidents. Read this manual

carefully beforehand use the camera correctly.

• After reading the manual, store it in a location where you can refer to it

at any time.

Ver. 1. 5

March 2012

HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.

～

Blank page ～

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

1

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1-1 CLASSIFICATION OF WARNINGS

We have classified the warning symbols that appear in this operating manual and on the
camera as follows for better comprehension of their meaning. Make sure that you fully
understand them and obey the instructions they contain.

WARNING

Improper handling of the camera without observing these
warnings could lead to serious injury to the user and even death.

CA U TI O N

Improper handling of the camera without observing these cautions
could lead to personal injury to the user or damage to property.

Note

This symbol indicates a note to help you get the best performance from the
camera. Read the contents of the note carefully to ensure correct and safe use.
Failure to observe one of these notes might impair the performance of the camera.

This symbol indicates a cautionary item that should be obeyed when handling the
camera. Read the contents carefully to ensure correct and safe use.

This symbol indicates an action that is forbidden. Read the contents carefully and
be sure to obey them.

This symbol indicates a compulsory action or instruction. Read the contents
carefully and be sure to obey them.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

2

WARNIN

G

Power supply

Use the camera with the voltage indicated on the rating. Using a different
voltage can damage the camera lead to fire or electric shock.

Be careful not to place heavy objects on cables or bend it excessively.
Doing so can damage the cable and lead to fire or electric shock.

Do not attempt to dismantle or modify the camera

Doing so can also lead to damage and even injury, as some internal
components become very hot. Only touch parts as indicated in this
manual.

Do not allow foreign objects such as combustible substances,

metal objects or water to get inside the camera.
They can damage the camera and lead to fire or electric shock.

If an abnormality occurs,

such as the image suddenly disappearing or strange noises, smell or see
smoke coming from the camera, contact Hamamatsu subsidiary or local
distributor quickly.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

3

CA U TI O N

Connecting and Disconnecting cables

Always turn off the power before connecting and disconnecting cables.

Fixing the camera head

When fitting the camera head to a tripod or other fixture, use the screw
(1/4-20UNC) in the center of a camera mount or the threaded sleeve (M3)
about the mount's perimeter. Be careful not to allow the fitting screw to
enter more than 5 mm from the surface of the mount. Screwing this in
excessively may impair normal operation.

Lenses

Be careful not to screw the lens more than 7 mm onto the C-mount of the
camera head. Doing so can scratch the protective glass. (Some wide-angle
lenses in particular can have a thread of 7 mm or more.)

Shipping precautions

When transporting the camera by truck, ship, airplane, etc., wrap it securely
in packaging material or something similar.

Strong impact

Do not subject the camera to strong shocks by dropping it, for example.
Doing so can damage the camera.

Operating environment

This system is designed and tested for use in an industrial environment. If
this system is used in residential areas, EMI (electro-magnetic interference)
may occur. This system must not be used in residential areas.

Disposal

When disposing of the system, take appropriate measures in compliance
with applicable regulations regarding waste disposal and correctly dispose
of it yourself, or entrust disposal to a licensed industrial waste disposal
company. In any case, be sure to comply with the regulations in your
country, state, region or province to ensure the system is disposed of
legally and correctly.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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2. CHECK THE CONTENTS OF PACKAGE

When you open the package, check that the following items are included before use. If the
contents are incorrect, insufficient, or damaged in any way, contact Hamamatsu subsidiary
or local distributor without attempting to operate the camera.

C8484-16C Camera head 1

C8484-16C Camera control unit 1

Camera head extension cable 1

Lens mount cap * attached to the camera 1

C8484-16C Instruction manual * this booklet 1

<Option>

AC adaptor

Recommendation

article of

Hamamatsu

Camera cable (5 m) A3194-01

CameraLink interface cable A9262-05

Note

• The cable listed in option is highly recommended for use with the camera. The camera

system may not confirm to CE marking regulation if other type of cable is used with.

3. INSTALLATION

Avoid using or storing this camera in the following places

• Where the ambient temperature might fall below 0 C or rise above 40 C

• Where the temperature varies extremely

• In direct sunlight or near a heater

• Where the humidity is 70 % or more or where there is dripping water

• Close to a strong source of magnetism or radio waves

• Where there is vibration

• Where it might come into contact with corrosive gases (such as chlorine or

fluorine)

• Where there is a lot of dust

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

5

CCoonntteennttss

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................ 1

1-1 CLASSIFICATION OF WARNINGS .................................................................... 1

2. CHECK THE CONTENTS OF PACKAGE ................................................... 4

3. INSTALLATION ........................................................................................... 4

4. OVERVIEW .................................................................................................. 7

5. FEATURES .................................................................................................. 7

6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF THE PARTS ................................................... 8

6-1 CAMERA HEAD .................................................................................................. 8

6-2 CAMERA CONTROL UNIT ................................................................................. 9

7. CONNECTING CABLES ........................................................................... 10

8. OPERATION .............................................................................................. 11

8-1 PREPARATION FOR IMAGING........................................................................ 11

8-2 IMAGING ........................................................................................................... 11

8-3 END OF IMAGING ............................................................................................. 11

9. IMAGE ACQUISITION ............................................................................... 12

9-1 DESCRIPTION OF HOW THE CCD FUNCTIONS ............................................ 12

9-2 OVERVIEW OF THE CAMERA MODES ........................................................... 13

9-3 DETAILS OF CAMERA MODE ......................................................................... 14

9-3-1 DIGITAL OUTPUT PIXEL COUNT ....................................................................................... 14

9-3-2 DIGITAL OUTPUT BIT COUNT ............................................................................................ 14

9-3-3 BINNING READOUT AND BINNING SETTINGS VALUES .................................................. 14

9-3-4 CCD READOUT METHODS (SCAN MODE) ....................................................................... 15

9-4 EXPOSURE TIME SETTINGS .......................................................................... 17

9-4-1 FREE RUNNING MODE ...................................................................................................... 17

9-4-2 EXTERNAL CONTROL MODE............................................................................................. 23

10. COMMAND SPECIFICATION ................................................................... 30

10-1 TRANSMISSION INTERFACE .......................................................................... 30

10-2 COMMAND FORMAT ....................................................................................... 30

10-3 CAMERA RESPONSE TO COMMANDS .......................................................... 30

10-4 OVERVIEW OF COMMANDS ........................................................................... 32

10-5 COMMAND INITIAL SETTING .......................................................................... 34

10-6 DETAIL OF COMMANDS ................................................................................. 35

11. PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THE CCD ................................................ 40

12. MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 41

12-1 CARE ................................................................................................................. 41

13. TROUBLESHOOTING CHECKLIST ......................................................... 42

13-1 IMAGES NOT TRANSFERRED ........................................................................ 42

13-2 ALTHOUGH IMAGES ARE TRANSFERRED (OTHER PROBLEMS) ........... 42

14. SPECIFICATION ....................................................................................... 43

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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14-1 CAMERA SPECIFICATION .............................................................................. 43

14-2 SPECTRAL RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS ............................................... 44

14-3 INTERFACE SPESIFICATION .......................................................................... 45

14-3-1 CAMERALINK INTERFACE ................................................................................................. 45

14-3-2 TIMING I/O INTERFACE ...................................................................................................... 46

14-4 IMAGE DATA OUTPUT TIMING SPECIFICATION .......................................... 47

15. DIMENSIONAL OUTLINE ......................................................................... 48

15-1 CAMERA HEAD ................................................................................................ 48

15-2 CAMERA CONTROL UNIT ............................................................................... 49

16. WARRANTY .............................................................................................. 50

17. CONTACT INFORMATION ....................................................................... 51

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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4. OVERVIEW

C8484-16C is a small CCD camera which provides 12 bit digital output and high resolution
for industrial/ scientific measurement, in which high accuracy and quality imaging are
required. This camera employs “CameraLink” which is used as standard interface for
industrial application.

5. FEATURES

(1) High Resolution

The camera is equipped with a high-resolution CCD Sensor featuring an effective pixel
count of 1344×1023 (horizontal × vertical) pixels. The pixels are square, thus
simplifying image processing for measurement purposes.

(2) No Mechanical Shutter Used

The all-pixel-readout interline CCD image sensor included in this camera (hereafter
referred to as CCD or all-pixel-readout CCD), eliminates the need for a mechanical
shutter.

(3) Digital Output

Image signals are converted from analog to digital in the camera control unit and
maximum signal cable length is 10 m.

(4) Low Distortion

The CCD’s pixels are laid out geometrically, ensuring nearly zero distortion.

(5) Compact Head

The camera head has been made lighter and more compact that makes the camera
easy to use in microscopic measurements, spectrophotometry, and other applications.

(6) No Burn-in

(7) Lens mount

The lens mount uses C-mount.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF THE PARTS

6-1 CAMERA HEAD

Figure 6-1

① Lens mount

C-mount lens or optical system with C-mount can be attached.

Note

• C-mount has a depth of 7 mm. Screwing the lens too far into the

camera head may scratch the glass surface.

② Camera head extension connector

Connector used for connecting the camera head to the camera control unit.

③ Camera mount

Jig for fixing the camera head. Used when mounting the head on a tripod or other fixture.

• When fitting the camera head to a tripod or other fixture, use the
screw (1/4-20UNC) in the center of a camera mount or the threaded
sleeve (M3) about the mount's perimeter. Be careful not to allow the
fitting screw to enter more than 5 mm from the surface of the mount.
Screwing this in excessively may impair normal operation.

[Front] [Side] [Rear]

① ②

③

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

9

6-2 CAMERA CONTROL UNIT

Figure 6-2

① Camera head extension connector

Connector used for connecting the camera head to the camera control unit.

② Camera connector [POWER]

Connector used for connecting the camera head to the AC adaptor.

Note

• The AC adaptor in an option. Use the recommendation article of Hamamatsu.

③ Camera mount

Jig for fixing the camera head. Used when mounting the camera control unit on a tripod or
other fixture.

④ Serial interface connector [SERIAL I/F]

• Do not connect it. Because this is a connector for the camera maintenance.

⑤ CameraLink interface connector [DIGITAL OUT]

Connector used for connecting the camera control unit to the CameraLink interface board.

⑥ Timing I/O connector [TIMING I/O]

This connector is used for input and output of timing signals when synchronizing with external
equipment.

⑦ Mode switching switch

• Do not change this. All positions are set to “OFF”.

① ① ③ ⑥ ⑦ ②

④

⑤

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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7. CONNECTING CABLES

Refer to the figure below when connecting the various cables.

Figure 7-1

• When cables are connected, confirming the power switch of the computer is the OFF
position.

① Camera head extension cable

Cable used for connecting the camera head to the camera control unit.

② CameraLink interface cable (Option)

Cable used for connecting the CameraLink interface connector to the CameraLink interface
board mounted on the host computer.

③ Camera cable (Option)

Cable used for connecting the camera head to the AC adaptor.

Note

• Hamamatsu recommends optional interface for the camera.

- AC adaptor: Recommendation article of Hamamatsu

- Camera cable: A3194-01

- CameraLink interface cable: A9262-05
Depending on type of interface cables, the camera may not keep CE marking
compliance in terms of EMC directive.

Camera

Camera head

① Camera head extension cable

Camera control unit AC adaptor

(Recommendation article of Hamamatsu)

③ Camera cable

(Option)

PC

Rear panel

② CameraLink interface cable

(Option)

CameraLink interface board

CAMERA

ＬＩＮＥ

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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8. OPERATION

8-1 PREPARATION FOR IMAGING

(1) Connect the equipment as shown in Figure 7-1 before operating of the camera.

• When cables are connected, confirming the power switch of the computer is
the OFF position.

(2) After turning the power switch on, wait approximately 10 minutes for the

temperature to stabilize; this completes preparation for imaging.

8-2 IMAGING

The camera works with following setting after power is switched ON.

Digital data output pixel count 1024

Operation mode Normal readout

Exposure time setting Normal setting

Contrast enhancement gain 0

Digital data output bit count 12 bit

The camera mode and parameters can be changed by command from the host computer,
which transmitted via the CameraLink interface.

8-3 END OF IMAGING

Carry out the procedure below when imaging is finished.

(1) End imaging or transmission of image data.
(2) Turn off the power to the camera and peripheral equipment.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

12

9. IMAGE ACQUISITION

9-1 DESCRIPTION OF HOW THE CCD FUNCTIONS

The all-pixel-readout interline transfer CCD used in this camera is arranged as shown in
Figure 9-1. Incident light at the CCD is converted by photosensors to electrical charges
which are transmitted through a shielded vertical transfer CCD (VCCD) and a horizontal
transfer CCD (HCCD) to a final output charge-voltage conversion amp. The sensor gate is
opened by the readout signal, and the charges generated by all of the photosensors are
transmitted unmixed to the VCCD, completing the exposure.
In addition, an electronic shutter signal is applied to the CCD, allowing any accumulated
charge in the photosensors to be discharged.

Photo-diode
Vertical CCD Sensor gate

ON-chip AMP Horizontal CCD

Figure 9-1

 Binning: Accumulated charges for a specified number of pixels in the vertical and

horizontal directions on the CCD are calculated and combined (binned), then
read out from the CCD. With this camera, binning can be set to 22, where two
pixels in the vertical and horizontal directions are combined, 44, where four
vertical and horizontal pixels are combined.

 Exposure time:

When set to the normal CCD scanning mode, this is as shown in Figure 9-2.
Exposure time is the elapsed time between one readout signal and the next;
this interval is at least as long as the time necessary for all of the charges from
the CCD to be read out.

Readout period

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Exposure time

Figure 9-2

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-2 OVERVIEW OF THE CAMERA MODES

This camera features many different operational modes. Furthermore, all modes involve the
CameraLink interface's built-in microprocessor, providing control and setting for all modes.
Of the numerous different modes, the modes used for obtaining images are broadly
classified into the two categories below.

(1) Free running mode

Exposure and readout is performed repeatedly, controlled by the internal
microprocessor. Some operations for which the commands can be used are shown
below.

Digital output data count 1024 / 1280 / 1344

Scan mode Normal / Binning / Sub-array

Exposure time setting Normal / Electronic shutter / Frame blanking

Digital output bit count 12 bit / 10 bit / 8 bit

(2) External control mode

An external control (trigger) pulse input the internal microprocessor and the repeating
exposure and readout.
Exposure start timing and length of exposure can be controlled with the external trigger
pulse. In addition, commands can be used the following.

Digital output data count 1024 / 1280 / 1344

Scan mode Normal / Binning / Sub-array

Exposure time setting Internal setting / External setting

Digital output bit count 12 bit / 10 bit / 8 bit

External control pulse polarity Negative / Positive

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

14

9-3 DETAILS OF CAMERA MODE

9-3-1 DIGITAL OUTPUT PIXEL COUNT

Select one of the numbers of effective horizontal pixel settings (1024/1280/1344) for the
camera's digital data output in accordance with the specifications of the digital input frame
grabber board being used.

Horizontal × Vertical Command

1024 × 1024 SHA K

1280 × 1024 SHA F

1344 × 1024 SHA M

9-3-2 DIGITAL OUTPUT BIT COUNT

Select the output bit count for the digital data output by the camera.

12 bit digital data, output at DB 0 to DB 11. ADS 12

The ten most significant bits of the 12 bit digital data are output to DB 0 to DB 9. ADS 10

The eight most significant bits of the 12 bit digital data are output to DB 0 to DB 7. ADS 8

9-3-3 BINNING READOUT AND BINNING SETTINGS VALUES

In addition to the normal readout, <11>, in which the digital output pixel count is read out as is,
the following readouts are available.

2×2 binning: 2 horizontal pixels combined with 2 vertical pixels SMD S, SPX 2

4×4 binning: 4 horizontal pixels combined with 4 vertical pixels SMD S, SPX 4

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-3-4 CCD READOUT METHODS (SCAN MODE)

Select either normal readout or binning readout.

(1) Normal readout ................................................................................... SMD N

Electrical charges from the CCD are read out in the normal, standard manner. The time
required for CCD readout of all of the CCD's pixels is approximately 1/11.9 s.

(2) 2×2 binning readout ............................................................... SMD S, SPX 2

Electrical charges from the CCD are read out in 2×2 binning readout. Time for total
readout of the CCD's pixels is approximately 1/21.3 s.

(3) 4×4 binning readout ............................................................... SMD S, SPX 4

Electrical charges from the CCD are read out in 4×4 binning readout. Time for total
readout of the CCD's pixels is approximately 1/35.7 s.

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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(4) Sub-array readout .............................................................................. SMD A

In this mode, only a required area is read out at the normal speed while the remaining
areas are rapidly cleared. This operation allows the frame rate to be increased.

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-4 EXPOSURE TIME SETTINGS

The exposure time and the methods used for making the exposure time settings are
different for Free running mode and External control mode. The following explains more
about each mode.

9-4-1 FREE RUNNING MODE

9-4-1-1 Exposure time setting: Normal

(1) Normal readout

Exposure and normal readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD N (Normal)
Exposure time : NMD N (Normal)
Exposure time : 1/11.9 s (83.8 ms)
Repeat cycle : 11.9 Hz

(2) 2×2 binning readout

Exposure and 22 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD N (Normal)
Binning : SPX 2 (2×2 binning)
Exposure time : 1/21.3 s (46.9 ms)
Repeat cycle : 21.3 Hz

Exposure time = 1/21.3 s = 46.9 ms

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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(3) 4×4 binning readout

Exposure and 44 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD N (Normal)
Binning : SPX 4 (4×4 binning)
Exposure time : 1/35.7 s (28.0 ms)
Repeat cycle : 35.7 Hz

(4) Sub-array readout

Readout of the sub-array repeats according to the sequence set internally with the

selection of <SVO n/SVW m/SPX e>.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD A (Sub-array)
Exposure time : NMD N (Normal)
Sub-array : SVO n/SVW m/SPX e

Exposure time = 1/35.7 s = 28.0 ms

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-4-1-2 Exposure time setting: Electronic shutter

Exposure and readout repeat along with the operation of the electronic shutter according to the

sequence set internally. The exposure time (electronic shutter time) is set with the SHT n

command. This setting is made in units of one horizontal scan cycle.

(1) Normal readout

Exposure and normal readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD N (Normal)
Exposure time : NMD S, SHT n (Shutter)
1H (horizontal) : 79.3 µs
Setting count : 1H to 1055H
Repeat cycle : 11.9 Hz
Exposure time cane be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 12.4 µs + (n-1) × 79.3 µs (n=1 to1055)

(2) 2×2 binning readout

Exposure and 22 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD S, SHT n (Shutter)
Binning : SPX 2 (2×2 binning)
1H (horizontal) : 87.4 µs
Setting count : 1H to 535H
Repeat cycle : 21.3 Hz
Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 20.5 µs + (n-1) × 87.4 µs (n = 1 to 535)

Exposure time = SHT n

CCD exposure

Electrical
shutter signal

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time = SHT n

CCD exposure

Electrical
shutter signal

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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(3) 4×4 binning readout

Exposure and 44 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD S, SHT n (Shutter)
Binning : SPX 4 (4×4 binning)
1H (horizontal) : 103.6 µs
Setting count : 1H to 269H
Repeat cycle : 35.7 Hz
Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 36.7 µs + (n-1) × 103.6 µs (n=1 to 269)

(4) Sub-array readout

Readout of the sub-array repeats according to the sequence set internally with the

selection of <SVO n/SVW m/SPX e>.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD A (Sub-array)
Exposure time : NMD S, SHT n (Shutter)
Sub-array : SVO n/SVW m/SPX e

Exposure time = SHT n

CCD exposure

Electrical
shutter signal

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time = SHT n

CCD exposure

Electrical
shutter signal

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-4-1-3 Exposure time setting: Frame blanking*

Exposure and readout repeat along with the operation of the electronic shutter according to the

sequence set internally. The exposure time (Frame blanking*) is set with the FBL n command.

This setting is made in units of one vertical scan cycle.

* Frame blanking: Photosensors are exposed for a specified number of frames; however the accumulated charge to the VCCD

from the photosensors are not read out every frame.

(1) Normal readout

Exposure and normal readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD N (Normal)
Exposure time : NMD F, FBL n (Frame blanking)
1V (vertical) : 83.8 ms
Setting count : 1V to 12V (83.8 ms to 1.00 s)
Repeat cycle : 11.9 Hz/n
Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = n × 83.8 ms (n=1 to 12)

(2) 2×2 binning readout

Exposure and 22 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD F, FBL n (Frame blanking)
Binning : SPX 2 (2×2 binning)
1V (vertical) : 46.9 ms
Setting count : 1V to 22V (46.9 ms to 1.03 s)
Repeat cycle : 21.3 Hz/n
Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = n × 46.9 ms

(n=1 to 22)

Exposure time = FBL n

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time = FBL n

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout

p

eriod

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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(3) 4×4 binning readout

Exposure and 44 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : NMD F, FBL n (Frame blanking)
Binning : SPX 4 (4×4 binning)
1V (vertical) : 28.0 ms
Setting count : 1V to 36V (28.0 ms to 1.00 s）
Repeat cycle : 35.7 Hz/n
Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = n × 28.0 ms (n=1 to 36)

(4) Sub-array readout

Readout of the sub-array repeats along with frame blanking according to the sequence

set internally with the selection of <SVO n/SVW m/SPX e>. The exposure time
(electronic shutter time) is set with the FBL n command.

Command : AMD N (Free running mode)
Scan mode : SMD A (Sub-array)
Exposure time : NMD F, FBL n (Frame blanking)
Sub-array : SVO n / SVW m / SPX e

Exposure time = FBL n

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

Exposure time = FBL n

CCD exposure

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data
output

Readout period

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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9-4-2 EXTERNAL CONTROL MODE

The external trigger pulse polarity is selected from <N (Negative) low-level active/P (Positive)
high-level active> and is input via the timing I/O connector (TIMING I/O) on the rear panel.
The external trigger pulse is at TTL level (Termination is 680 Ω).
The cycle is active for a minimum of 1 μs, and the repeat must match the selected mode.

Note

• Images are not output correctly if the pulse input is shorter than 1 μs.

The following text describes the External Control mode with the external trigger pulse polarity set
to N (Negative). If P (Positive) is selected, the rise and fall of each pulse is reversed (inverted),
with the LO interval becoming the HI interval.
Descriptions enclosed in brackets ({ }) indicate cases where P (Positive) is selected.

9-4-2-1 Exposure time setting: Internal setting

Exposure begins within 2.2 μs from the fall {rise} of the external trigger pulse, the exposure is

made using the time set with the EST n command, and readout follows. After readout, the

system waits for the external trigger pulse to fall {rise} again. The exposure time (electronic

shutter time) is set with the EST n command. This setting is made in units of one horizontal

scan cycle. The repeat cycle is controlled by the external control pulse's repeat cycle.

Note

• Set the external control pulse's repeat cycle so that it is longer than the minimum cycle.

(1) Normal readout

Exposure and normal readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD N ( Normal)
Exposure time : EMD E, EST n (Internal setting)
1V (vertical) : 79.3 µs
Setting count : 1H to 12 930H (14.5 µs to 1.025 s)

Minimum Repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 83.8 ms (readout time) + set exposure time

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 14.5 µs + (n-1) × 79.3 µs (n = 1 to 12 930)

External trigger pulse min. 1 µs

CCD exposure Exposure time = EST n

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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(2) 2×2 binning readout

Exposure and 22 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : EMD E,EST n (Internal setting)
Binning : SPX 2 (2×2)
1V (vertical) : 87.4 µs
Setting count : 1H to 12 930H (22.65 µs to 1.129 s)

Minimum Repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 46.9 ms (readout time) + set exposure time

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 22.65 µs + (n-1) × 87.4 µs (n = 1 to 12 930)

External trigger pulse min. 1 µs

CCD exposure Exposure time = EST n

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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(3) 4×4 binning readout

Exposure and 44 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : EMD E,EST n (Internal setting)
Binning : SPX 4 (4×4)
1V (vertical) : 103.6 µs
Setting count : 1H to 12 930H (38.45 µs to 1.339 s)

Minimum Repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 28.0 ms (readout time) + set exposure time

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = 38.45 µs + (n-1) × 103.6 µs (n = 1 to 12 930)

External trigger pulse min. 1 µs

CCD exposure Exposure time = EST n

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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9-4-2-2 Exposure time setting: External setting

Exposure begins within 2.2 μs from the fall {rise} of the external trigger pulse. After this, when
external trigger pulse rises {falls} again, the exposure is stopped within the designated time,
and the data is read out. After readout, the system waits for the external trigger pulse to fall
{rise} again. The exposure time (electronic shutter time) is controlled according to the external
control pulse's LO interval {HI interval}. The repeat cycle is controlled by the external control
pulse's repeat cycle.

Note

• Set the external control pulse's repeat cycle so that it is longer than the minimum cycle.

Note

• The external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} must be at least 10 μs.

Maximum exposure time is 1 s.
When the external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} exceeds 1 s, the exposure is stopped
and the data is read out (exposure cannot exceed 1 s).

(1) Normal readout

Exposure and normal readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD N (Normal)
Exposure time : EMD L (External setting)
Designated time : within 152 µs

Minimum repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 83.8 ms (readout time) + external control pulse's

LO interval {HI interval} (exposure time)

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = external trigger pulse LO interval {HI interval} - 2.2 μs

(MAX) (exposure lock-in time) + 152 μs (MAX) (readout
lock-in time)

Ex) When the external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} is 40,

Exposure time = 40 μs - 2.2 μs (MAX) + 152 μs (MAX) = 189.8 μs (MAX)

External trigger pulse
Pulse width min. 10 µs

CCD exposure

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal max. 152 µs
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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(2) 2×2 binning readout

Exposure and 22 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : EMD L (External setting)
Binning : SPX 2 (2×2 binning)
Designated time : within 152 µs

Minimum repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 46.9 ms (readout time) + external control pulse's

LO interval {HI interval} (exposure time)

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = external trigger pulse LO interval {HI interval} - 2.2 μs

(MAX) (exposure lock-in time) + 152 μs (MAX) (readout
lock-in time)

Ex) When the external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} is 40,

Exposure time = 40 μs - 2.2 μs (MAX) + 152 μs (MAX) = 189.8 μs (MAX)

External trigger pulse
Pulse width min. 10 µs

CCD exposure

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal max. 152 µs
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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(3) 4×4 binning readout

Exposure and 44 binning readout repeat according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD S (Binning)
Exposure time : EMD L (External setting)
Binning : SPX 4 (4×4 binning)
Designated time : within 182 µs

Minimum repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = 28.0 ms (readout time) + external control pulse's

LO interval {HI interval} (exposure time)

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.

Exposure time = external trigger pulse LO interval {HI interval} - 2.2 μs

(MAX) (exposure lock-in time) + 182 μs (MAX) (readout
lock-in time)

Ex) When the external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} is 40,

Exposure time = 40 μs - 2.2 μs (MAX) + 182 μs (MAX) = 219.8 μs (MAX)

External trigger pulse
Pulse width min. 10 µs

CCD exposure

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal max. 182 µs
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

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(4) Sub-array readout

Readout of the sub-array repeats according to the sequence set internally.

Command : AMD E (External control mode)
External control pulse : ATP N {ATP P}
Scan mode : SMD A (Sub-array)
Exposure time : EMD L (External setting)
Sub-array : SVO n / SVW m / SPX e
Designated time : within 40 µs

Minimum repeat cycle can be calculated using the formula below.

Minimum repeat cycle = readout time + external control pulse's LO interval

{HI interval} (exposure time)

Exposure time can be calculated using the formula below.
Ex) When the external control pulse's LO interval {HI interval} is 40,

Exposure time = external trigger pulse LO interval {HI interval} - 2.2 μs

(MAX) (exposure lock-in time) + 152 μs (MAX) (readout
lock-in time)

External trigger pulse
Pulse width min. 10 µs

CCD exposure

Electrical shutter signal max. 2.2 µs

Readout signal
from CCD chip

Digital data output

Readout period

1×1 (SPX 1) 152 µs
2×2 (SPX 2) 152 µs
4×4 (SPX 4) 182 µs

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10. COMMAND SPECIFICATION

10-1 TRANSMISSION INTERFACE

The camera is controlled from the host computer through the serial interface.
Specifications for the serial interface are shown below.

Baud rate 9600

Bit length 8

Parity check None

Stop bit 1

10-2 COMMAND FORMAT

(1) Basic system

External control commands for the camera are output by the computer in the following
format.

Command_Parameter

CR

CR: Carriage Return

<CR> appended to a command being output indicates the end of the data.
Spaces (_) are used to separate commands from parameters in commands requiring
the inclusion of parameters.

10-3 CAMERA RESPONSE TO COMMANDS

The camera responds to commands transmitted from the host computer.
The camera can be set so that a response is either sent or withheld when the RESponse
command is received.
However, responses to status commands from the camera cannot be refused.

RES

(RESponse)

Function Setting allows or prevents responses when commands are sent from the

host computer.

Parameter

RES Y

Response is transmitted for each separate command (default).

RES N

Response is not transmitted for each separate command.

The following describes cases in which the camera responds to the RES command.
Responses indicate the completion of actions the camera performs when the corresponding
commands are received; responses differ according to the type of command received by the
camera.

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(1) Responses to operating commands and setting commands

When execution of a command proceeds normally, a reply with the executed command
(with parameter) is sent back to the host computer.

XXX_PP CR

XXX: Executed command
PP : Parameter

If the command sent by the computer contains an error (undefined command,
parameter error), the character string below is sent as an error message.

E3 CR

(2) Responses to status commands

This is always output; regardless of the RES command setting.
When the camera interprets a command as being proper, the response to the
command's execution is to send back to the host computer the required status.
Accordingly, the status command is executed normally, and the response is the
transmission of the status to the host computer.

XXX_PP CR

XXX : Command Name (Three characters, omitting “?")
PP :

Status Response to the Command

Just as described above, when the command sent by the computer contains an error
(undefined command, parameter error), the character string below is sent as an error
message.

E3 CR

(3) Reply when error occurs on reception

There are two things to be considered when an error occurs during reception. One is
framing, parity, or overrun errors; the other is the possible overloading of the input
buffer. The fact that one of these errors has occurred is transmitted in the character
string below.

En CR

Here, n indicates an error, with the type of error indicated by the following.

n = 1: Framing, parity, or overrun error
n = 2: Input buffer overload

Moreover, when either of the two errors above occurs, the command generating the
error is cancelled from the camera's input buffer.

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10-4 OVERVIEW OF COMMANDS

The external control commands are categorized into the five following groups.

 Mode setting commands

 Parameter setting commands

 Correctional commands

 Other setting commands

 Status commands

(1) Mode setting commands

This group contains commands that switch the modes used in obtaining images.

AMD

Selects internal control or external control for the exposure trigger timing.

NMD

Switches the method used to set the exposure time when the exposure
trigger timing is controlled internally.

EMD

Switches the method used to set the exposure time when the exposure
trigger timing is controlled externally.

SMD Switches the scanning mode.
ADS Switches the digital data output bit count.

(2) Parameter setting commands

This group contains commands for setting parameters such as exposure time and
digital output pixel count.

SHT

Sets the exposure time (sets the electronic shutter speed) when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled internally.

FBL

Sets the exposure time (sets the frame blanking count) when the exposure
trigger timing is controlled internally.

EST

Sets the exposure time when the exposure trigger timing is controlled
externally (sets the electronic shutter speed when the exposure time is set
internally).

SHA

Selects the pixel number of digital output horizontal.

ATP Sets the external trigger pulse polarity to N (Negative) or P (Positive).
SPX Sets the number of binning when binning is selected.
SHO

Selects the sub-array's horizontal start address.

SHW Selects the sub-array's horizontal line width.
SVO Selects the sub-array's vertical start address.
SVW

Selects the sub-array's vertical line width.

ESC Selects input connector for external trigger.

(3) Correctional commands

This group contains commands for setting the contrast enhancement function and
other picture-correction settings.

CEG

Sets the contrast enhancement gain.

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(4) Other Setting Commands

This group contains commands for initializing the camera and for other settings.

INI

Sets the various settings that determine the camera's overall operation to
the initial values.

RES

Selects whether responses are made to commands.

(5) Status commands

When the host computer outputs a status command, a response is then returned by the
camera. All status commands are preceded by a question mark ("?"); if the status
command is contained within a setting command, the question mark is added at the
beginning of the command.

?AMD Returns the setting for the exposure trigger timing.

?NMD

Returns the setting for the method used to set the exposure time when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled internally.

?EMD

Returns the setting for the method used to set the exposure time when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled externally.

?SMD Returns the setting switching the scan mode.
?ADS

Returns the bit number of digital data output.

?SHT

Returns the exposure time (sets the electronic shutter speed) when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled internally.

?FBL

Returns the exposure time (sets the frame blanking count) when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled internally.

?EST

Returns the exposure time when the exposure trigger timing is controlled
externally (sets the electronic shutter speed when the exposure time is set
internally).

?SHA Returns the pixel number of digital output horizontal pixel.
?ATP

Returns the external trigger pulse polarity.

?SPX Returns the setting value when binning is selected as the readout mode.
?SHO Returns the setting value for the horizontal start address.
?SHW

Returns the setting value for the horizontal line width.

?SVO Returns the setting value for the vertical start address.
?SVW Returns the setting value for the vertical line width.
?ESC

Returns the setting input connector for external trigger.

?CEG Returns the contrast enhancement gain setting value.
?RES Returns the setting for the command response.
?VER

Returns the version of camera's internal components.

?CAI Returns information about the camera hardware.

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10-5 COMMAND INITIAL SETTING

Settings commands are set as shown below with the power is turned on.

These settings are initialized, regardless of the "INI" command.

Category Initial command Detail

Mode setting

commands

AMD N

Exposure start timing Free running mode

NMD N

Exposure time setting
(in the free running mode)

Normal

EMD E

Exposure time setting
(in the external control mode)

Edge

SMD N

Scan mode Norma readout

ADS 12

Digital data output bit count 12 bit

Parameter setting

commands

SHT 160

Electronic shutter speed
(in the free running mode)

160

FBL 9

Frame blanking count
(in the free running mode)

9

EST 160

Electronic shutter speed
(in the internal setting at the time of
External control mode)

160

SHA K

Digital output horizontal pixel count 1024

ATP N

External trigger pulse polarity Negative

SPX 2

Super pixel readout 2×2 binning

SHO 160

Horizontal offset
(in the sub-array readout)

160

SHW 1024

Horizontal line width
(in the sub-array readout)

1024

SVO 0

Vertical offset
(in the sub-array readout)

0

SVW 1024

Vertical line width
(in the sub-array readout)

1024

ESC I

Input connector
(for external trigger)

Digital interface
connector

Correctional

commands

CEG L

Contrast enhancement gain Low

Other setting

commands

RES Y

Responses are made to commands.

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10-6 DETAIL OF COMMANDS

(1) Mode setting commands

AMD

(Acquire MoDe)

Parameter

N (Normal)

/ E (External)

Function

Selects internal control or external control for the exposure trigger timing.

Example

AMD N

The command setting the mode is executed, and then
internally controlled imaging begins.

AMD E

The command setting the mode is executed, exposure
according to external control pulses begins, and the images
are output.

NMD

(Normal MoDe)

Parameter

N (Normal)

/ S (Shutter) / F (Frame blanking)

Function

Selects mode used to set the exposure time when the exposure trigger
timing is controlled internally: Normal, in which exposure is set by
exposure time, electronic shutter, or frame blanking.

Example

NMD N

The command setting the mode is executed, and exposure
using normal exposure times goes into effect.

NMD S

The command setting the mode is executed, and exposure
using the electronic shutter goes into effect.

NMD F

The command setting the mode is executed, and exposure
using frame blanking goes into effect.

EMD

(External MoDe)

Parameter

E (Edge)

/ L (Level)

Function

Selects either internal or external settings are used in setting the
exposure time when the exposure trigger timing is controlled externally.

Example

EMD E

The command setting the mode is executed, and exposure
with exposure times with the internal settings goes into effect.

EMD L

The command setting the mode is executed, and exposure
with exposure times with the external settings goes into effect.

SMD

(Scan MoDe)

Parameter

N (Normal)

/ S (Super pixel)

Function

Selects either normal readout or binning readout (Super Pixel).

Example

SMD N

The command setting the mode is executed, and the data is
read out using N/normal readout.

SMD S

The command setting the mode is executed, and the data is
read out using binning readout.

ADS

(A/D Select)

Parameter

12 (12 bit output)

/ 10 (10 bit output) / 8 (8 bit output)

Function

Selects 8 bit output, 10 bit output, or 12 bit output.

Example

ADS 12

12 bit digital data is output to DB0 to DB11.

ADS 10

Of the 12 bit digital data, the 10 most significant bits are
output to DB 0 to DB 9.

ADS 8

Of the 12 bit digital data, the 8 most significant bits are
output to DB 0 to DB 7.

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(2) Parameter setting commands

SHT

(SHutter Time)

Parameter n (n: Number of Horizontal line)

Normal readout : 1 to 1055
22 binning readout : 1 to 535
44 binning readout : 1 to 269

Function

Sets the exposure time (electronic shutter time) in units of 1 H when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled internally and the electronic shutter is
selected as the method for setting the exposure time.

FBL

(Frame BLanking)

Parameter n (n: Number of Frame)

Normal readout : 1 to 12
22 binning readout : 1 to 22
44 binning readout : 1 to 36

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------­[Sub-array readout]
1×1 (Normal) : 1 to (1 000 000/((W+10)×79.3+(1046-W)×6.6)
2×2 : 1 to (1 000 000/((W/2+9)×87.4+(527-W/2)×14.7)
4×4 : 1 to (1 000 000/((W/4+8)×103.6+(262-W/4)×30.9)

Function

Sets the exposure frame count when the exposure trigger timing is
controlled internally and frame blanking is selected as the method for
setting the exposure time.

EST

(External Shutter Time)

Parameter n (n: number of horizontal line) 1 to 12 930

Function

Sets the exposure time (electronic shutter time) in units of 1H when the
exposure trigger timing is controlled externally and the internal settings for
exposure time are used.

SHA

(Scan Horizontal Area)

Parameter K(Kilo) / F(Full) / M(Max)

Function

Selects 1024 (K), 1280 (F), or 1344 (M) for the pixel number of digital
output horizontal.

ATP

(Active Trigger Polarity)

Parameter N(Negative) / P(Positive)

Function

Sets the external trigger pulse polarity.

Example

ATP N

Sets the external trigger pulse polarity to Negative.

ATP P

Sets the external trigger pulse polarity to Positive.

SPX

(Super Pixel X)

Parameter 1(1×1) / 2(2×2) / 4(4×4)

Function

Sets 22 or 4



4 super pixel readout when binning readout is selected as

the scan mode.

Example

SPX 2

The mode-setting command is executed, and the readout is
set to 22 binning.

SPX 4

The mode-setting command is executed, and the readout is
set to 44 binning.

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SHO

(Scan H-Offset)

Parameter

n (0n1336, n = multiples of 8)

Function

Selects the sub-array's horizontal start address.

Example

When the n value is set to a number that is not a multiple of 8, the

command returns an error (E3) in response. Furthermore, the SHA setting
is enabled when the SHO command is processed.

SHW

(Scan H-Width)

Parameter m (8≦m≦1344, m=multiples of 8)

Function

Selects the sub-array's horizontal line width.

Example

When the n value is set to a number that is not a multiple of 8, the

command elicits an error (E3) in response. Furthermore, the SHA setting is
enabled when the SHW command is processed.

SVO

(Scan V-Offset)

Parameter n (0≦n≦1016, n=multiples of 8)

Function

Sets the vertical start address for the sub-array readout.

Example

When the n value is set to a number that is not a multiple of 8, the
command elicits an error (E3) in response.

SVW

(Scan V-Width)

Parameter m (8≦m≦1024, m=multiples of 8)

Function

Selects the vertical line width for readout in sub-array or binning mode.

Example

Offset 256 (start address 256)
Width 512

SVO 256
SVW 512
SHA F
SMD A

ESC

(External trigger Source Connector)

Parameter I (Digital Interface connector) / M (Digital 6-pin Multi connector)

Function

Selects input connector for external trigger.

Example

ESC I

Receives external trigger from Digital interface connector of
the camera control unit.

ESC M

Receives external trigger from Digital 6-pin multi connector of
the camera control unit.

(3) Correctional commands

CEG

(Contrast Enhance Gain)

Parameter L (Low) / H (High)

Function

Sets the gain for the Contrast Enhance function.

Example

CEG L

Gain is set to Low (0 dB).

CEG H

Gain is set to High (14 dB).

512

256

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(4) Other setting commands

INI

(INItialize)

Parameter None

Function

Initializes the contents of the camera control unit's internal parameter
RAM.

RES

(RESponse)

Parameter Y (Yes) / N (No)

Function

Determines whether or not responses are returned when commands
are executed.

Example

RES Y

Responses are returned when command are executed.

RES N

Responses are not returned when command are executed.

(5) Status commands

Status commands return the current settings values.

Commands Return value

?AMD (read Acquire MoDe)

N/E

?NMD (read Normal MoDe)

N/S/F

?EMD (read External MoDe)

E/L

?SMD (read Scan MoDe)

N/S

?ADS (read A/D Select)

8/10/12

?SHT (read SHutter Time)

n ・Normal readout : 1 to 1055

・2×2 binning readout : 1 to 535
・4×4 binning readout : 1 to 269

?FBL (read Frame BLanking)

n ・Normal readout : 1 to 12

・2×2 binning readout : 1 to 22
・4×4 binning readout : 1 to 36

?EST (read External Shutter Time)

n (1 to 12 930)

?SHA (read Scan Horizontal Area)

F/K/M

?ATP (read Acquire Trigger Polarity)

N/P

?SPX (read Super Pixel X)

1/2/4

?SHO (read Scan H-Offset)

n (0 to 1336)

?SHW (read Scan H-Width)

m (8 to 1344)

?SVO (read Scan V-Offset)

n (0 to 1016)

?SVW (read Scan V-Width)

m (8 to 1024)

?ESC (read External trigger Source Connector)

I/M

?CEG (read Contrast Enhancement Gain)

L/H

?RES (read RESponse)

Y/N

The following command is a special status command not in the group of settings
commands.

?VER

(read rom VERsion)

Function Returns the version of the camera’s internal ROM.

Return value x.xx

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(6) Obtaining camera hardware information commands

This command returns information about the camera hardware. This command differs
from other status commands, in that it includes parameters.

?CAI

(CAmera Information)

Parameter T : Camera type name

A : Bit number of output
H : Pixel number of CCD effective horizontal
V : Pixel number of CCD effective vertical

U: Pixel number of CCD upper OPB

W : Pixel number of CCD lower OPB
L : Pixel number of CCD left OPB
R : Pixel number of CCD right OPB
I : Bit number of A/D converter
S : Bit number of A/D converter
O : Camera options
B : Binning number

Example

?CAI H  CAI H

1024

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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11. PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THE CCD

This camera uses a CCD. Careful attention must be paid to the following points when using
a CCD:

(1) White spot

Subjecting the CCD to extended exposures may cause failure in part of the silicon
wafer, resulting in white spots. This phenomenon is not currently preventable. If the
CCD is at a fixed temperature, recurrence of the white spot increases proportionally
with the exposure time, so this can be rectified with dark subtraction. Atomic ray may
generate white spot.

* After an image made using a certain exposure time is loaded, the CCD is exposed to darkness for the same amount of

time, and another image is obtained. After this, the difference between the images is determined, and the data for the
dark portion of the original image is nullified.

(2) Damage (drop in sensitivity) to CCD by ultraviolet light exposure

Ultraviolet light has higher energy than visible light, so it can easily damage the
sensors forming the CCD, causing a drop in sensitivity and rise dark current according
to the total incident light energy. (Example: When the CCD is exposed to ultraviolet light
having a wavelength of 196 nm and total radiation energy of 15 J/cm

2

for 625 minutes

with an irradiance of 0.4 mW/cm

2

, sensitivity will drop by approximately 15 % and dark
current will increase by approximately 10 %.)
When using in the ultra violet range, take steps not to apply excessive ultraviolet light.
(If a part of the effective area of the CCD is exposed to excessive ultravio let light, such
as by direct incidence of the ultraviolet light laser, then sensitivity may drop
accordingly.)
In addition, extended exposure may cause a drop in sensitivity, even if the intensity is
not excessive. When not shot, take care to protect the CCD from ultraviolet light.

(3) Smear

When imaging very bright objects, bright vertical stripes (vertical smear) may be visible
in the images being taken. This is due to leakage of current to the vertical CCD’s from
the photosensors. The amount of leakage is proportional to the readout time and
exposure time.
Smear presents no problem when the camera is in Normal frame blanking mode.
However, when using the electronic shutter of the external exposure time settings, this
sometimes becomes a problem when the exposure time is shortened.

(4) Folding distortion

A rough-edged flicker may be visible when imaging striped patterns, lines, and similar
subject matter.

(5) Interference fringes pattern

Coherent light such as LASER light may generate interference fringes pattern on
image.

(6) Over light

CA UTI ON

• Be careful not to input too strong light such as high-energy

laser into CCD chip because CCD chip may be damaged by
over light.

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12. MAINTENANCE

12-1 CARE

Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth.

• Do not use a wet cloth, dirty cloth.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

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13. TROUBLESHOOTING CHECKLIST

If an abnormality occurs, look up the possible causes in the following tables and, if
necessary, report the details to Hamamatsu subsidiary or local distributor.

13-1 IMAGES NOT TRANSFERRED

Cause Measure Chapter

Cables not fully connected Reconnect 7

Camera control register not correctly configured Recheck register settings 10

Short in cables Replace cables

13-2 ALTHOUGH IMAGES ARE TRANSFERRED

(OTHER PROBLEMS)

(1) Scratches or discoloration visible on the screen

Cause Measure Chapter

Front glass of camera head dirty Wipe with gauze dampened with alcohol

(2) Image is blurred

Cause Measure Chapter

Incorrect back focus

Contact Hamamatsu subsidiary or
distributor

17

Dirty CCD chip

(3) Only dark, shaded images output

Cause Measure Chapter

Lens mount cap left on Remove the cap

(4) All images overflowing

Cause Measure Chapter

Too much light Reduce amount of light

Reduce exposure time

Contrast enhancement set too high Lower gain

(5) Noise in image

Cause Measure Chapter

Noise introduced from exterior Find and remedy problem

Poor connection of internal components

Contact Hamamatsu subsidiary or
distributor

17

Bad circuitry

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

43

14. SPECIFICATION

14-1 CAMERA SPECIFICATION

(1) Electrical specification

Imaging device Progressive scan inline CCD solid-state imaging device

Effective number of pixels 1344 (H) × 1024 (V)

Cell size 4.65 µm × 4.65 µm (Square format)

Effective area 6.25 mm × 4.76 mm (1/2-inch size)

Frame rate

Normal readout 11.9 Hz

2×2 binning readout 21.3 Hz

4×4 binning readout 35.7 Hz

Readout noise 14 electrons (typ.) *1

A/D converter 12 bit
Lens mount C-mount

Amp gain conversion factor *2 2.8 electrons/ADcounts

Full well capacity 10 900 electrons

Contrast enhancement gain 0 dB/14 dB

Exposure time setting 12.4 µs to 1 s

* 1 This value is the measurement in free running and scan modes normal readout. The value was measured with the

CCD in dark state. In this state, two images are acquired, image subtraction performed, the standard deviation
taken from the results, and this value was then divided by squire root of 2 and plugged into a transformation
coefficient.

* 2 When running an amp-gain transformation coefficient to convert measured image count values into electrons be

sure to conduct dark subtraction first.

(2) Operating environment

Ambient storage temperature 0 ºC to + 40 ºC

Ambient operation temperature -10 ºC to + 50 ºC

Ambient operating humidity 70 % or less (no condensation)

Operating space Indoor, altitude up to 2000 m

(3) Dimensional outline and weight

Camera head Approx. 160 g

Camera control unit Approx. 610 g

Note

• Please refer to 15 Dimensional outline.

(4) Applicable standards

EMC EN61326-1:2006 Class A

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

44

14-2 SPECTRAL RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS

Following is the typical spectral characteristics of the CCD.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000

Wavelength(nm)

QE(%)

Figure 14-1

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

45

14-3 INTERFACE SPESIFICATION

14-3-1 CAMERALINK INTERFACE

CameraLink interface is a standard of a digital interface for industrial application standardized by
digital camera manufactures and frame grabber board manufactures. 28 bits digital data (TX0 to
TX27) can be transferred as being changed into 5 signals (X0 to X3 and XCLK) by parallel serial
transformation.
This camera is based on CameraLink interface and Base Configuration 12 bit digital camera
standard.

(1) CameraLink connector pin assignments (MDR-26)

Camera Connector Frame Grabber Connector Channel Link Signal

1 1 Inner Shield
2 25 X0­3 24 X1­4 23 X2­5 22 Xclk­6 21 X3­7 20 SerTC+ *2
8 19 SerTFG- *2

9 18 CC1- *1
10 17 CC2+ *1
11 16 CC3- *1
12 15 CC4+ *1
13 13 Inner Shield
14 14 Inner Shield
15 12 X0+
16 11 X1+
17 10 X2+
18 9 Xclk+
19 8 X3+
20 7 SerTC- *2
21 6 SerTFG+ *2
22 5 CC1+ *1
23 4 CC2- *1
24 3 CC3+ *1
25 2 CC4- *1
26 26 Inner Shield

* 1 CC1 to CC4 are options. It is possible to use an external trigger. So when it is needed, please feel free to contact

our sales group.

* 2 SerTC and SerTFG are available when the second of DIPSW on the back panel of the camera is off.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

46

(2) CameraLink bit assignments

28 bit Solution

Pin Name

Input Signal Name

28 bit Solution

Pin Name

Input Signal Name

TX0 DB0 TX14 NC
TX1 DB1 TX15 NC
TX2 DB2 TX16 NC
TX3 DB3 TX17 NC
TX4 DB4 TX18 NC
TX5 DB7 TX19 NC
TX6 DB5 TX20 NC
TX7 DB8 TX21 NC
TX8 DB9 TX22 NC

TX9 DB10 TX23 Spare
TX10 NC TX24 LVAL
TX11 NC TX25 FVAL
TX12 DB11 TX26 DVAL
TX13 NC TX27 DB6

 DVAL (Data valid signal)

This signal synchronizes in the image data from CCD, and it is outputted. Each digital data is
effective with the period of “On” of the signal.

 LVAL (Line valid signal)

This signal shows the period during which the line part of the image data from the CCD is in
effect. This is “ON” when during the period the line is active.

 FVAL (Frame valid signal)

This signal shows the period during which the vertical part of the image data from the CCD is in
effect. This is “ON” during the period the frame is active.

 DB0 to DB11 (Digital image data)

This is the image signal data from the CCD converted A/D. DB0 is the LSB (least significant bit)
and DB11 is the MSB (most significant bit).

14-3-2 TIMING I/O INTERFACE

(1) Timing I/O pin assignments [TIMING I/O]

The camera uses Hirose model HR10A-7R-6S connector for inputting the external
trigger pulse when the camera is operated in External Control mode. Input is TTL level
(termination is 680 Ω), and the external trigger pulse polarity can be set either to
negative or positive.

No. Signal Pin connections

1 Ext.Trigger

HR10A-7R-6S

2 Digital GND

3 NC

4 Digital GND

5 NC

6 Digital GND

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

47

14-4 IMAGE DATA OUTPUT TIMING SPECIFICATION

(1) Line timing (LVAL)

The following is the relationship the line valid timing signal (LVAL) and the data valid
signal (DVAL).

N1 N2

LVAL

DVAL

Digital data output

pixel number

Scan mode

N1

Pixel number

N2

Pixel number

1024

Normal readout 562 1024
2×2 binning readout 362 512
4×4 binning readout 262 256

1280

Normal readout 306 1280
2×2 binning readout 234 640
4×4 binning readout 198 320

1344

Normal readout 242 1344
2×2 binning readout 202 672
4×4 binning readout 182 336

(2) Frame timing (FVAL)

The following is the relationship the frame valid timing signal (FVAL) and the line valid
timing signal (LVAL).

N1 N2

FVAL

LVAL

Digital data output

pixel number

Scan mode

N1

Pixel number

N2

Pixel number

1024/1280/1344

Normal readout 32 1024
2×2 binning readout 24 512
4×4 binning readout 14 256

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

48

15. DIMENSIONAL OUTLINE

15-1 CAMERA HEAD

1-32UN C-MOUNT

1/4-20UNC, D=8

2-M3P0.5

,

D=8

22

17.5

50

±1

37±1

5

φ47±0.3

55

31.5±0.5

(Unit: mm)

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

49

15-2 CAMERA CONTROL UNIT

(Unit: mm)

65

±1 135±2

7.4±1

60±1
22±0.5

2-M3, D=8
1/4-20UNC, D=8

POWER

DIGITAL CAMERA

65±1

32.5±0.5

C848

4

SERIAL I/

F

DIGITAL OUT

TIMING I//O

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

50

16. WARRANTY

Hamamatsu Photonics have fully inspected this camera and checked that its performance
conforms to specifications. In the unlikely event of breakdown or other malfunction, contact
Hamamatsu subsidiary or local distributor.

(1) Unless otherwise stated by Hamamatsu subsidiary or local distributor, this system

is under warranty for 24 months from the delivery date.

- Consumable parts, such as a fan, a mechanical shutter, and a fuse, are excepted.

- Degradation with atomic rays, the radiation (X-rays, gamma rays, UV light, etc.) of CCD is excepted.

(2) The warranty only covers defects in the materials and manufacturing of the system.

You may be liable for repairs during the warranty period in the event of a natural
disaster or if you handle the system contrary to the instructions in this manual, use
it without due caution, or try to modify it.

(3) We will repair the system or replace it, subject to availability, free of charge within

the terms of the warranty.

REPAIRS

(1) If you notice anything wrong with the camera, confirm whether or not it is

malfunctioning by referring to the troubleshooting checklist in this instruction
manual. You must first clarify the symptoms in order to avoid any misunderstanding
or error.

(2) If you have any trouble or are unclear about anything, contact Hamamatsu

subsidiary or local distributor giving the product name, serial number and details of
the problem. If Hamamatsu Photonics consider the problem to be a malfunction,
we will decide whether dispatch an engineer or have the camera returned to us for
repairs.

C8484-16C Instruction manual Ver.1.5

51

17. CONTACT INFORMATION

HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K. K., Systems Division

812 Joko-cho, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu City, 431-3196,Japan
Telephone [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

U.S.A. and Canada:

Hamamatsu Corporation

360 Foothill Road,Bridgewater,N.J. 08807-0910,U.S.A.
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

Germany:

Hamamatsu Photonics Deutschland GmbH

Arzbergerstr. 10, D-82211 Herrsching am Ammersee, Germany
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

France:

Hamamatsu Photonics France S.A.R.L.

19,Rue du Saule Trapu, Parc du Moulin de Massy, 91882 Massy Cedex, France
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mal: [e-mail]

United Kingdom:

Hamamatsu Photonics UK Limited

2 Howard Court, 10 Tewin Road, Welwyn Garden City
Hertfordshire AL7 1BW, United Kingdom
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

North Europe:

Hamamatsu Photonics Norden AB

Smidesvagän 12, SE-171 41 Solna, Sweden
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

Italy:

Hamamatsu Photonics Italia S.R.L.

Strada della Moia, 1/E 20020 Arese (Milano), Italy
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

China:

Hamamatsu Photonics (China) Co., Ltd.

1201 Tower B, Jiaming Center, 27 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, China
Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

● The contents of this manual are subject to change without notice.

● The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of part or all of this manual is prohibited.

● If one of the following problems occurs, contact Hamamatsu Photonics. (See the

Contact Information.) We will deal with the problem immediately.

 Some contents of the manual are dubious, incorrect or missing.
 Some pages of the manual are missing or in the wrong order.
 The manual is missing or dirty.

CCD
exposure