Photon Focus MV2-D1280-640 User Manual

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User Manual

MV2-D1280-640

CMOS Area Scan Camera

MAN033 07/2008 V1.2

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

Contents

1 Preface 7

1.1 About Photonfocus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.2 Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.3 Sales Ofﬁces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.4 Further information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

1.5 Legend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2 How to get started (CameraLink Full) 9

3 Product Speciﬁcation 13

3.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.2 Feature Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.3 Technical Speciﬁcation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3.4 Ordering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.5 Frame Grabber Conﬁguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

4 Functionality 21

4.1 Image Acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4.1.1 Readout Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4.1.2 Exposure Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

4.1.3 Maximum Frame Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.1.4 Constant Frame Rate (CFR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.2 Image Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.2.1 Counters and Average Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.3 Pixel Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

4.3.1 Linear Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

4.3.2 Grey Level Transformation (LUT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4.3.3 Test Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4.4 Image Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

4.4.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

4.4.2 Offset Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

4.4.3 Gain Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

4.4.4 Corrected Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

4.5 Reduction of Image Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4.5.1 Region of Interest (ROI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4.5.2 Multiple Regions of Interest (MROI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

4.5.3 Decimation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

4.6 External Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

4.6.1 Trigger Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

4.6.2 Trigger Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

4.6.3 Trigger Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

4.7 Strobe Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

CONTENTS 3

CONTENTS

4.8 Conﬁguration Interface (CameraLink) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

5 Hardware Interface 41

5.1 Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

5.1.1 CameraLink Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

5.1.2 Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

5.1.3 Trigger and Strobe Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

5.1.4 Status Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

5.2 CameraLink Data Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

5.3 Read-out Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

5.3.1 Free running Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

5.3.2 Constant Frame Rate Mode (CFR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

5.4 Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

5.4.1 Trigger Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

5.4.2 Trigger Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

6 The PFRemote Control Tool 53

6.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

6.1.1 CameraLink Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

6.1.2 USB 2.0 Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

6.2 Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

6.3 Installation Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

6.3.1 Manual Driver Installation (only USB 2.0 Model) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

6.3.2 DLL Dependencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

6.4 Graphical User Interface (GUI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

6.4.1 Port Browser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

6.4.2 Ports, Device initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

6.4.3 Main Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

6.5 Device properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI) 59

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

7.1.1 Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

7.1.2 Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

7.1.3 Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

7.1.4 Data Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

7.1.5 Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

7.1.6 Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

8 Mechanical and Optical Considerations 71

8.1 Mechanical Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

8.2 Optical Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

8.2.1 Mounting the Lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

8.2.2 Cleaning the sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

8.3 Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

9 Warranty 75

9.1 Warranty Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

9.2 Warranty Claim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

10 References 77

A Pinouts 79

A.1 Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

A.1.1 Power Supply Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

A.2 CameraLink Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

B Revision History 83

CONTENTS 5

CONTENTS

Preface

1.1 About Photonfocus

The Swiss company Photonfocus is one of the leading specialists in the development of CMOS image sensors and corresponding industrial cameras for machine vision, security & surveillance and automotive markets. Photonfocus is dedicated to making the latest generation of CMOS technology commercially available. Active Pixel Sensor (APS) and global shutter technologies enable high speed and high dynamic range (120 dB) applications, while avoiding disadvantages, like image lag, blooming and smear. Photonfocus has proven that the image quality of modern CMOS sensors is now appropriate for demanding applications. Photonfocus’ product range is complemented by custom design solutions in the area of camera electronics and CMOS image sensors. Photonfocus is ISO 9001 certiﬁed. All products are produced with the latest techniques in order to ensure the highest degree of quality.

1.2 Contact

Photonfocus AG, Bahnhofplatz 10, CH-8853 Lachen SZ, Switzerland

Sales Phone: +41 55 451 07 45 Email: sales@photonfocus.com

Support Phone: +41 55 451 01 37 Email: support@photonfocus.com

Table 1.1: Photonfocus Contact

1.3 Sales Ofﬁces

Photonfocus products are available through an extensive international distribution network and through our key account managers. Details of the distributor nearest you and contacts to our key account managers can be found at www.photonfocus.com.

1.4 Further information

For further information on the products, documentation and software updates please see our web site www.photonfocus.com or contact our distributors.

Photonfocus reserves the right to make changes to its products and documentation without notice. Photonfocus products are neither intended nor certiﬁed for use in life support systems or in other critical systems. The use of Photonfocus products in such applications is prohibited.

Photonfocus is a trademark and LinLog®is a registered trademark of Photonfocus AG. CameraLink is a registered mark of the Automated Imaging Association. Product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies.

1 Preface

Reproduction of this manual in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited without prior permission having been obtained from Photonfocus AG.

Photonfocus can not be held responsible for any technical or typographical errors.

1.5 Legend

In this documentation the reader’s attention is drawn to the following icons:

Important note.

Alerts and additional information.

Attention, critical warning.

✎

Notiﬁcation, user guide.

How to get started (CameraLink Full)

1. Install a suitable CameraLink Full frame grabber in your PC.

To ﬁnd a compliant frame grabber, please see the frame grabber compatibility list at www.photonfocus.com.

2. Install the frame grabber software.

✎

Without installed frame grabber software the camera conﬁguration tool PFRemote will not be able to communicate with the camera. Please follow the instructions of the frame grabber supplier.

3. Remove the camera from its packaging. Please make sure the following items are included with your camera:

• Power supply connector (7-pole power plug)

• Camera body cap

If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealership.

4. Remove the camera body cap from the camera and mount a suitable lens.

When removing the camera body cap or when changing the lens, the camera should always be held with the opening facing downwards to prevent dust or debris falling onto the CMOS sensor.

Do not touch the sensor surface. Protect the image sensor from particles and dirt!

To choose a lens, see the Lens Finder in the ’Support’ area at www.photonfocus.com.

5. Connect the camera to the frame grabber with two suitable CameraLink cables. Consult the frame grabber manual to correctly connect the cables. CameraLink cables can be ordered directly from Photonfocus. Please note that Photonfocus provides appropriate solutions for your advanced vision applications.

Do not connect or disconnect the CameraLink cable while camera power is on! For more information about CameraLink see Section 4.8.

2 How to get started (CameraLink Full)

6. Connect a suitable power supply to the provided 7-pole power plug. For the connector assembly see Fig. A.1. The pinout of the connector is shown in Appendix A.

Check the correct supply voltage and polarity! Do not exceed the maximum operating voltage of +12V DC (- 10%) to +24V DC (+10%).

7. Connect the power supply to the camera.

✎

The status LED on the rear of the camera will light red for a short moment, and then ﬂash green. For more information see Section 5.1.4.

8. Download the camera software PFRemote to your computer.

You can ﬁnd the latest version of PFRemote on the support page at www.photonfocus.com.

9. Install the camera software PFRemote. Please follow the instructions of the PFRemote setup wizard.

Figure 2.1: Screen shot PFremote setup wizard

Figure 2.2: PFRemote start window

10. Start the camera software PFRemote and choose the communication port.

11. Check the status LED on the rear of the camera.

✎

The status LED lights green when an image is being produced, and it is red when serial communication is active. For more information see Section 5.1.4.

12. You may display images using the software that is provided by the frame grabber manufacturer.

2 How to get started (CameraLink Full)

Product Speciﬁcation

3.1 Introduction

The MV2-D1280-640 CMOS camera from Photonfocus is aimed at demanding applications in industrial image processing. It provides an exceptionally high frame rate of up to 488 fps at full resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels. The camera is built around the MT9M413 CMOS image sensor, developed by Micron. The principal advantages are:

• 488 frames/sec at full resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels

• Low power consumption at high speeds

• Resistance to blooming

• Ideal for high speed applications: global shutter, in combination with selectable read out window: Region of Interest (ROI) or Multiple Regions of Interest (MROI)

• Shading correction for superior image quality

• 10 to 8 bit Look-Up table (LUT)

• Software is provided to set camera parameters and store them within the camera

• The camera has a digital CameraLink Full interface

• Image preprocessing is available as an option

The general speciﬁcation and features of the camera are listed in the following sections.

3.2 Feature Overview

Item Description

Interfaces CameraLink full conﬁguration

Camera Control PFRemote (Windows GUI) or programming library

Conﬁguration Interface CLSERIAL (9’600 baud or 57.6k baud user selectable)

Trigger Modes Interface Trigger / I/O Trigger

Exposure Time Deﬁned by camera or trigger pulse width

Features Shading Correction (Offset and Gain)

Grey level resolution 8 bit (internal 10 bit)

Region of Interest (ROI) and Multiple Region of Interest (MROI)

Look-up table (10 to 8 bit) / Decimation

Trigger input / Strobe output with programmable delay

Test pattern: LFSR and gradient (ramp)

Table 3.1: Feature overview (see Chapter 4 for more information)

3 Product Speciﬁcation

3.3 Technical Speciﬁcation

Parameter Value

Technology CMOS active pixel

Scanning system progressive scan

Optical format / diagonal 1.3” / 19.67 mm

Resolution 1280 x 1024 pixels

Pixel size 12.0 µm x 12.0 µm

Active optical area 15.36 mm x 12.29 mm

DSNU (Dark Signal Non-Uniformity) < 0.5 % rms (high spatial frequency)

< 1.5 % p-p (low spatial frequency)

PRNU (Photo Response Non-Uniformity) < 0.6 % rms (high spatial frequency)

< 10 % p-p (low spatial frequency)

Dark signal 0.6 fA or 16 DN / sec @ 8 bit / gain=1 / 25°C

Dark signal doubling interval 8°C

Spectral range 400 nm ... 900 nm

Responsivity 400 DN / lux sec @ 550 nm / 8 bit / gain = 1

= 272,000 DN / J / m2@ 550 nm / 8 bit / gain = 1

Optical ﬁll factor 40%

Full well capacity 63,000 e-

Random noise 70e- or 0.3 DN rms @ 8b / gain = 1 / no signal

Dynamic range 59 dB

Colour format monochrome

Characteristic curve linear

Shutter mode global shutter

Min. Region of Interest (ROI) in 8 tap mode

1 row x 16 columns

Min. Region of Interest (ROI) in 10 tap mode

1 row x 40 columns

Greyscale Resolution 10 bit (internal) / 8 bit (CameraLink output)

Digital Gain x1 / x2 / x4

Exposure Time 10 µs ... 100 ms

Exposure Time Increment 2µs

Frame Rate ( T

int

= 10 µs) 488 fps

Pixel Clock Frequency 82.5 MHz (8-tap mode), 66 MHz (10-tap mode)

Camera Taps 8 or 10

Readout mode sequential or simultaneous readout

Table 3.2: General speciﬁcation of the MV2-D1280-640 camera

All speciﬁcations apply to 8 bit output and a gain setting of 1 unless stated otherwise.

Parameter Value

Operating temperature 0°C ... 60°C

Camera power supply +12 V DC (+/- 10%)

Trigger signal input range +5 .. +15 V DC

Strobe signal power supply +5 .. +15 V DC

Strobe signal sink current (average) max. 8 mA

Max. power consumption 4.2 W

Lens mount M42x1, C-Mount or F-Mount

Dimensions 78 x 78 x 46.2 mm

Mass 374 g

Conformity CE

Shock and Vibration tests IEC 68-2-6, IEC 68-2-27, IEC 68-2-29

Vibration test parameters sine 5 ... 18 Hz / 1.5 mm p-p, 18 ... 150 Hz/1g, 1 Oct/Min, 1h/axis

Shock test parameters Halfsine 10g/11 ms, 100 bump/direction

Table 3.3: Physical characteristics and operating ranges

Figure 3.1: Spectral response of image sensor MT9M413 (Micron) (image courtesy of Micron)

3.3 Technical Speciﬁcation 15

3 Product Speciﬁcation

3.4 Ordering Information

Ordering information is listed in Table 3.4.

Item Order Nr.

MV2-D1280-640-CL-8 with M42x1.0 thread 602030.100

MV2-D1280-640-CL-8 with C-Mount thread 602030.101

MV2-D1280-640-CL-8 with F-Mount thread 602030.102

Table 3.4: Ordering information

3.5 Frame Grabber Conﬁguration

Item Value

Pixel Clock per Tap 82.5 MHz (8 tap mode), 66 MHz (10 tap mode)

Number of Taps 8 or 10

Greyscale resolution 8 bit

CC1 EXSYNC

CC2 not used

CC3 not used

CC4 not used

Table 3.5: Summary of parameters needed for frame grabber conﬁguration

CameraLink Port and Bit assignments are compliant to the CameraLink standard (see [CL] ). The assignment of CameraLink taps to tap numbers is shown in Table 3.6. The assigment of the CameraLink LVDS transceiver ports to CameraLink taps is shown in Table

3.7, Table 3.8 and Table 3.9. The CameraLink transceiver port is written in the format <cl_device>-<pin_nr>, where <cl_device> = CameraLink transceiver chip (X, Y or Z) and <pin_nr> the number of the CameraLink transceiver pin. The CameraLink tap is written in the format <cl_tap><bit_nr>, where <bit_nr>=0 is LSB.

Tap Speciﬁer 8-Tap-Full Tap Number 10-Tap-Full Tap Number

A 0 0

B 1 1

C 2 2

D 3 3

E 4 4

F 5 5

G 6 6

H 7 7

I - 8

J - 9

Table 3.6: CameraLink tap assignment

3.5 Frame Grabber Conﬁguration 17

3 Product Speciﬁcation

CL Transceiver Pin 8-Tap Full Mode 10-Tap Full Mode

X-0 A0 A0

X-1 A1 A1

X-2 A2 A2

X-3 A3 A3

X-4 A4 A4

X-5 A7 A5

X-6 A5 A6

X-7 B0 A7

X-8 B1 B0

X-9 B2 B1

X-10 B6 B2

X-11 B7 B3

X-12 B3 B4

X-13 B4 B5

X-14 B5 B6

X-15 C0 B7

X-16 C6 C0

X-17 C7 C1

X-18 C1 C2

X-19 C2 C3

X-20 C3 C4

X-21 C4 C5

X-22 C5 C6

X-23 SPARE0 C7

X-24 LVAL0 LVAL0

X-25 FVAL0 FVAL0

X-26 DVAL0 D0

X-27 A6 D1

Table 3.7: CameraLink transceiver X port assignment

CL Transceiver Pin 8-Tap Full Mode 10-Tap Full Mode

Y-0 D0 D2

Y-1 D1 D3

Y-2 D2 D4

Y-3 D3 D5

Y-4 D4 D6

Y-5 D7 D7

Y-6 D5 E0

Y-7 E0 E1

Y-8 E1 E2

Y-9 E2 E3

Y-10 E6 E4

Y-11 E7 E5

Y-12 E3 E6

Y-13 E4 E7

Y-14 E5 F0

Y-15 F0 F1

Y-16 F6 F2

Y-17 F7 F3

Y-18 F1 F4

Y-19 F2 F5

Y-20 F3 F6

Y-21 F4 F7

Y-22 F5 G0

Y-23 SPARE1 G1

Y-24 LVAL1 G2

Y-25 FVAL1 G3

Y-26 DVAL1 G4

Y-27 D6 LVAL1

Table 3.8: CameraLink transceiver Y port assignment

3.5 Frame Grabber Conﬁguration 19

3 Product Speciﬁcation

CL Transceiver Pin 8-Tap Full Mode 10-Tap Full Mode

Z-0 G0 G5

Z-1 G1 G6

Z-2 G2 G7

Z-3 G3 H0

Z-4 G4 H1

Z-5 G7 H2

Z-6 G5 H3

Z-7 H0 H4

Z-8 H1 H5

Z-9 H2 H6

Z-10 H6 H7

Z-11 H7 I0

Z-12 H3 I1

Z-13 H4 I2

Z-14 H5 I3

Z-15 I0 I4

Z-16 I6 I5

Z-17 I7 I6

Z-18 I1 I7

Z-19 I2 J0

Z-20 I3 J1

Z-21 I4 J2

Z-22 I5 J3

Z-23 SPARE2 J4

Z-24 LVAL2 J5

Z-25 FVAL2 J6

Z-26 DVAL2 J7

Z-27 G6 LVAL2

Table 3.9: CameraLink transceiver Z port assignment

Functionality

This chapter serves as an overview of the camera conﬁguration modes and explains camera features. The goal is to describe what can be done with the camera. The setup of the camera is explained in later chapters.

4.1 Image Acquisition

4.1.1 Readout Modes

The MV2-D1280-640-CL-8 camera provides two different readout modes:

Sequential readout Frame time is the sum of exposure time and readout time. Exposure time

of the next image can only start if the readout time of the current image is ﬁnished.

Simultaneous readout (interleave) The frame time is determined by the maximum of the

exposure time or of the readout time, which ever of both is the longer one. Exposure time of the next image can start during the readout time of the current image.

The following ﬁgure illustrates the effect on the frame rate when using either the sequential readout mode or the simultaneous readout mode (interleave exposure).

E x p o s u r e t i m e

F r a m e r a t e ( f p s )

S i m u l t a n e o u s r e a d o u t m o d e

S e q u e n t i a l r e a d o u t m o d e

f p s = 1 / r e a d o u t t i m e

f p s = 1 / e x p o s u r e t i m e

f p s = 1 / ( r e a d o u t t i m e + e x p o s u r e t i m e )

e x p o s u r e t i m e < r e a d o u t t i m e

e x p o s u r e t i m e > r e a d o u t t i m e

e x p o s u r e t i m e = r e a d o u t t i m e

Figure 4.1: Frame rate in sequential readout mode and simultaneous readout mode

Sequential readout mode For the calculation of the frame rate only a single formula applies:

frames per second equal to the inverse of the sum of exposure time and readout time.

Simultaneous readout mode (exposure time < readout time) The frame rate is given by the

readout time. Frames per second equal to the inverse of the readout time.

Simultaneous readout mode (exposure time > readout time) The frame rate is given by the

exposure time. Frames per second equal to the inverse of the exposure time.

The simultaneous readout mode allows higher frame rates. However, If the exposure time signiﬁcantly exceeds the readout time, then the effect on the frame rate is negligible.

4 Functionality

Sequential readout

By default the camera continuously delivers images as quickly as possible ("Free-running mode") in the sequential readout mode. Exposure time of the next image can only start if the readout time of the current image is ﬁnished.

e x p o s u r e r e a d o u t

e x p o s u r e

r e a d o u t

Figure 4.2: Timing in free-running sequential readout mode

When the acquisition of an image needs to be synchronised to an external event, an external trigger can be used (refer to Section 4.6 and Section 5.4). In this mode, the camera is idle until it gets a signal to capture an image.

e x p o s u r e r e a d o u t

i d l e e x p o s u r e

e x t e r n a l t r i g g e r

Figure 4.3: Timing in triggered sequential readout mode

Simultaneous readout (interleave exposure)

To achieve the highest possible frame rates, the camera must be set to "Free-running mode" with simultaneous readout. The camera continuously delivers images as quickly as possible. Exposure time of the next image can start during the readout time of the current image.

e x p o s u r e n i d l e

i d l e

r e a d o u t n

e x p o s u r e n + 1

r e a d o u t n + 1

f r a m e t i m e

r e a d o u t n - 1

Figure 4.4: Timing in free-running simultaneous readout mode (readout time> exposure time)

e x p o s u r e n

i d l e

r e a d o u t n

e x p o s u r e n + 1

f r a m e t i m e

r e a d o u t n - 1

i d l e

e x p o s u r e n - 1

Figure 4.5: Timing in free-running simultaneous readout mode (readout time< exposure time)

4.1.2 Exposure Control

The exposure time deﬁnes the period during which the image sensor integrates the incoming light. Refer to Table 3.2 for the allowed exposure time range and see Section 5.4.1

Figure 4.6: Timing in triggered simultaneous readout mode

4.1.3 Maximum Frame Rate

The maximum frame rate depends on the exposure time, the readout scheme and the size of the image (see Region of Interest, Section 4.5.1). In most cases, simultaneous readout is the best choice for highest framerate.

4.1.4 Constant Frame Rate (CFR)

When the CFR mode is switched on, the frame rate (number of frames per second) can be varied from almost 0 up to the maximum frame rate. Thus, fewer images can be acquired than would otherwise be possible. When Constant Frame Rate is switched off, the camera delivers images as quickly as possible, depending on the exposure time and the read-out time. See Section 5.3.2 for more information.

Constant Frame Rate mode (CFR) is not available together with external trigger mode.

4.2 Image Information

There are camera properties available that give information about the acquired images, such as an image counter, average image value and the number of missed trigger signals. These properties can be queried by software.

4.2.1 Counters and Average Value

Image counter The image counter provides a sequential number of every image that is output.

After camera startup, the counter counts up from 0 (counter width 24 bit). The counter can be reset by the camera control software.

Missed trigger counter The missed trigger counter counts trigger pulses that were ignored by

the camera because they occurred within the exposure or read-out time of an image. In free-running mode it counts all incoming external triggers. (Counter width 8 bit / no wrap around).

Average image value The average image value gives the average of an image in 8 bit format

(0 .. 255 DN), regardless of the currently used grey level resolution.

4.2 Image Information 23

4 Functionality

4.3 Pixel Response

4.3.1 Linear Response

Gain x1, x2, x4

Gain x1, x2 and x4 are digital ampliﬁcations, which means that the digital image data are multiplied by a factor 1, 2 or 4 respectively, in the camera. Resulting values higher than 255 are clipped to 255.

Black Level Adjustment

The black level is the average image value at no light intensity. It can be adjusted by the software by changing the black level offset. Thus, the overall image gets brighter or darker.

4.3.2 Grey Level Transformation (LUT)

Grey level transformation is remapping of the grey level values of an input image to new values. The look-up table (LUT) is used to convert the greyscale value of each pixel in an image into another grey value. It is typically used to implement a transfer curve for contrast expansion. The camera performs a 10-to-8-bit mapping, so that 1024 input grey levels can be mapped to 256 output grey levels. The use of the three available modes is explained in the next sections.

The output grey level resolution of the look-up table (independent of gain, gamma or user-deﬁnded mode) is always 8 bit.

There are 2 predeﬁned functions, which generate a look-up table and transfer it to the camera. For other transfer functions the user can deﬁne his own LUT ﬁle.

Gain

The ’Gain’ mode performs a digital, linear ampliﬁcation (see Fig. 4.7). It is conﬁgurable in the range from 1.0 to 4.0 (e.g. 1.234).

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

100

150

200

250

300

Grey level transformation − Gain: y = (255/1023) ⋅ a ⋅ x

x: grey level input value (10 bit) [DN]

y: grey level output value (8 bit) [DN]

a = 1.0 a = 2.0 a = 3.0 a = 4.0

Figure 4.7: Applying a linear gain to an image

4.3 Pixel Response 25

4 Functionality

Gamma

The ’Gamma’ mode performs an exponential ampliﬁcation, conﬁgurable in the range from 0.4 to 4.0. Gamma > 1.0 results in an attenuation of the image (see Fig. 4.8), gamma < 1.0 results in an ampliﬁcation (see Fig. 4.9).

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

100

150

200

250

300

Grey level transformation − Gamma: y = (255 / 1023γ) ⋅ xγ (γ ≥ 1)

x: grey level input value (10 bit) [DN]

y: grey level output value (8 bit) [DN]

γ = 1.0 γ = 1.2 γ = 1.5 γ = 1.8 γ = 2.5 γ = 4.0

Figure 4.8: Applying gamma correction to an image (gamma > 1)

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

100

150

200

250

300

Grey level transformation − Gamma: y = (255 / 1023γ) ⋅ xγ (γ ≤ 1)

x: grey level input value (10 bit) [DN]

y: grey level output value (8 bit) [DN]

γ = 1.0 γ = 0.9 γ = 0.8 γ = 0.6 γ = 0.4

Figure 4.9: Applying gamma correction to an image (gamma < 1)

User-deﬁned Look-up Table

In the ’User’ mode, the mapping of input to output grey levels can be conﬁgured arbitrarily by the user. There is an example ﬁle in the PFRemote folder.

U s e r L U T

y = f ( x )

1 0 b i t

8 b i t

Figure 4.10: Data path through LUT

4.3.3 Test Images

Test images are generated in the camera FPGA, independent of the image sensor. They can be used to check the transmission path from the camera to the frame grabber. Independent of the conﬁgured grey level resolution, every possible grey level appears the same number of times in a test image. Therefore, the histogram of the received image must be ﬂat for an image resolution of <w> x 1024, where <w> must be a multiple of 256 (e.g. full resolution of 1280x1024).

A test image is a useful tool to ﬁnd data transmission errors that are caused most often by a defective cable between camera and frame grabber.

Test images give the correct result only at a resolution of <w> x 1024, where <w> must be a multiple of 256 (e.g. full resolution of 1280x1024).

Ramp

The ramp test image outputs a constant pattern with increasing grey level from the left to the right side (see Fig. 4.11).

LFSR

The LFSR (linear feedback shift register) test image outputs a constant pattern with a pseudo-random grey level sequence containing every possible grey level that is repeated for every row. In the histogram you can see that the number of pixels of all grey values are the same. Please refer to application note [AN026] for the calculation and the values of the LFSR test image.

Troubleshooting using the LFSR

To check the quality of your complete imaging system enable the LFSR mode and check the histogram. If your frame grabber application does not provide a real-time histogram, store the image and use graphics software to display the histogram.

4.3 Pixel Response 27

4 Functionality

Figure 4.11: Ramp test image

Figure 4.12: LFSR test image

In the LFSR (linear feedback shift register) mode the camera generates a constant test pattern containing all grey levels. If the data transmission is error free, the histogram of the received LFSR test pattern will be ﬂat (Fig. 4.13). On the other hand, a non-ﬂat histogram (Fig. 4.14) indicates problems, that may be caused either by the cable, the connectors or the frame

grabber.

A possible origin of failure can be a CameraLink cable which exceeds the maximum length or suffers from severe electromagnetic interference.

Some CameraLink cables have a predeﬁned direction.

Figure 4.13: LFSR test pattern received at the frame grabber and typical histogram for error-free data transmission

The LFSR test works only for an image width of 1024, otherwise the histogram will not be ﬂat.

Figure 4.14: LFSR test pattern received at the frame grabber and histogram containing transmission errors

CameraLink cables contain wire pairs, which are twisted in such a way that the cable impedance matches with the LVDS driver and receiver impedance. Excess stress on the cable results in transmission errors which causes distorted images. Therefore, please do not overly stretch and bend CameraLink cables during installation and operation.

4.3 Pixel Response 29

4 Functionality

In robot applications, the stress that is applied to the CameraLink cable is especially high due to the fast and repeated movements of the robot arm. For such applications, special drag chain capable cables are available.

4.4 Image Correction

4.4.1 Overview

The MV2-D1280-640 camera possesses image pre-processing features that compensate for non-uniformities caused by the sensor, the lens or the illumination. This method of improving the image quality is generally known as ’Fixed Pattern Noise (FPN) Correction’, ’Shading Correction’ or ’Flat Field Correction’ and consists of a combination of offset correction and gain correction.

Since the correction is performed in hardware, there is no performance limitation.

The offset correction subtracts a conﬁgurable positive or negative value from the live image and thus reduces the ﬁxed pattern noise of the CMOS sensor. The gain correction can be used to ﬂatten uneven illumination or to compensate shading effects of a lens. Both offset and gain correction work on a pixel-per-pixel basis, i.e. every pixel is corrected separately. For the correction, a black reference and a grey reference image are required. Then, the correction values are determined automatically in the camera.

Do not set any reference images when gain or LUT is enabled!

Correction values of both reference images can be saved into the internal ﬂash memory, but this overwrites the factory presets. Then the reference images that were preset in production cannot be restored anymore.

4.4.2 Offset Correction

The offset correction is based on a black reference image, which is taken at no illumination (e.g. lens aperture completely closed). The black reference image contains the ﬁxed-pattern noise of the sensor, which can be subtracted from the live images in order to minimise the static noise.

Offset correction algorithm

After conﬁguring the camera with a black reference image, the camera is ready to apply the offset correction:

1. Determine the average value of the black reference image.

2. Subtract the black reference image from the average value.

3. Mark pixels that have a grey level higher than 63 DN (@ 8 bit) as hot pixels that will not be corrected.

4. Store the result in the camera as the offset correction matrix.

5. During image acquisition, subtract the correction matrix from the acquired image.

3 1

4 32

2 4 14

b l a c k r e f e r e n c e i m a g e

- 1

- 2

- 1

- 2

- 2 - 2

a v e r a g e

o f b l a c k

r e f e r e n c e

p i c t u r e

o f f s e t c o r r e c t i o n m a t r i x

Figure 4.15: Offset correction

How to Obtain a Black Reference Image

In order to improve the image quality, the black reference image must meet certain demands.

• The black reference image must be obtained at no illumination, e.g. with lens aperture closed or closed lens opening.

• It may be necessary to adjust the black level offset of the camera. In the histogram of the black reference image, ideally there are no grey levels at value 0 DN after adjustment of the black level offset. All pixels that are saturated black (0 DN) will not be properly corrected (see Fig. 4.16). The peak in the histogram should be well below the hot pixel threshold of 63 DN @ 8 bit.

• Camera settings such as exposure time, LinLog, skimming and digital gain may inﬂuence the grey level. Therefore, for best results the camera settings of the black reference image must be identical with the camera settings of the corrected image.

Figure 4.16: Histogram of a proper black reference image for offset correction

4.4.3 Gain Correction

The gain correction is based on a grey reference image, which is taken at uniform illumination to give an image with a mid grey level.

4.4 Image Correction 31

4 Functionality

Gain correction is not a straightforward feature. The quality of the grey reference image is crucial for proper gain correction.

Gain correction algorithm

After conﬁguring the camera with a black and grey reference image, the camera is ready to apply the gain correction:

1. Determine the average value of the grey reference image.

2. Subtract the offset correction matrix from the grey reference image.

3. Divide the average value by the offset corrected grey reference image.

4. Store the result in the camera as the gain correction matrix.

5. During image acquisition, multiply the gain correction matrix by the offset-corrected acquired image.

1 0

7 9

4 32

9 6 84

1 0

g r e y r e f e r e n c e p i c t u r e

a v e r a g e

o f g r e y

r e f e r e n c e

p i c t u r e

)

1 . 2

0 . 9

1 . 2

- 2

0 . 9 1

- 1

0 . 8

1 . 3

0 . 8

- 2

- 2 - 2

- 1

- 2

- 1

- 2

- 2 - 2

)

o f f s e t c o r r e c t i o n m a t r i x

g a i n c o r r e c t i o n m a t r i x

Figure 4.17: Gain Correction

Gain correction always needs an offset correction matrix, so the offset correction has to be performed before the gain correction.

How to Obtain a Grey Reference Image

In order to improve the image quality, the grey reference image must meet certain demands.

• The grey reference image must be obtained at uniform illumination.

Use a high quality light source that delivers uniform illumination. Standard illumination will not be appropriate.

• When looking at the histogram of the grey reference image, ideally there are no grey levels at full scale (255 DN @ 8 bit). All pixels that are saturated white will not be properly corrected (see Fig. 4.18).

• Camera settings such as exposure time, LinLog, skimming and digital gain may inﬂuence the grey level. Therefore, the camera settings of the grey reference image must be identical with the camera settings of the corrected image.

Figure 4.18: Proper grey reference image for gain correction

4.4.4 Corrected Image

Offset and gain correction can be switched on seperately. The following conﬁgurations are possible:

• No correction

• Offset correction only

• Offset and gain correction

In addition, the black reference image and grey reference image that are currently stored in the camera RAM can be output.

5 6

4 37

7 4 64

c u r r e n t i m a g e

)

5 4

4 37

7 4 64

)

- 1

- 2

- 1

- 2

- 2 - 2

o f f s e t c o r r e c t i o n m a t r i x

1 . 2

0 . 9

1 . 2

- 2

0 . 9

- 1

0 . 8

1 . 3

0 . 8

- 2 - 2 - 2

g a i n c o r r e c t i o n m a t r i x

c o r r e c t e d i m a g e

)

Figure 4.19: Corrected image

Table 4.1 shows the maximum values of the correction matrices, i.e. the error range that the offset and gain algorithm can correct.

minimum maximum

Offset correction -63 DN @ 8 bit +63 DN @ 8 bit

Gain correction 0.42 2.67

Table 4.1: Offset and gain correction ranges

4.4 Image Correction 33

4 Functionality

4.5 Reduction of Image Size

With Photonfocus cameras there are several possibilities to focus on the interesting parts of an image, thus reducing the data rate and increasing the frame rate. The most commonly used feature is Region of Interest (ROI).

4.5.1 Region of Interest (ROI)

Some applications do not need full image resolution. By reducing the image size to a certain region of interest (ROI), the frame rate can be drastically increased. A region of interest can be almost any rectangular window and is speciﬁed by its position within the full frame and its width and height. Fig. 4.20 gives some possible conﬁgurations for a region of interest, and Table 4.2 shows some numerical examples of how the frame rate can be increased by reducing the ROI.

Only reductions in y-direction result in a higher frame rate. A reduction of the ROI in x-direction reduces the amount of transferred data. The sensor read out architecture limitates the possible ROI values in x-direction. In 8 tap output mode settings modulo 8 are possible. In 10 tap output mode settings modulo 40 are possible.

The software takes the user inputs and converts these values into allowed settings. Due to the restrictions of the up- and down-buttons in the PFRemote software the calculation procedure usually rounds off the user’s values. In case of a user input, which is 1 number higher than an allowed value, the software rounds up.

a )

b ) c ) d )

Figure 4.20: ROI conﬁguration examples

ROI Dimension Frame rate

1280 x 1024 488 fps

1280 x 512 977 fps

1280 x 256 1953 fps

1280 x 128 3906 fps

1280 x 16 31250 fps

Table 4.2: Frame rates of different ROI settings (exposure time 10 µs; correction off, CFR off and simultaneous readout mode)

Exposure time Frame rate

10 µs 486 / 488 fps

100 µs 466 / 488 fps

500 µs 392 / 488 fps

1 ms 328 / 488 fps

2 ms 247 / 488 fps

5 ms 142 / 200 fps

10 ms 83 / 100 fps

12 ms 71 / 83 fps

Table 4.3: Frame rate of different exposure times, [sequential readout mode / simultaneous readout mode], resolution 1280x1024 pixel (correction off, CFR off ).

Calculation of the maximum frame rate

The frame rate mainly depends of the exposure time and readout time. The frame rate is the inverse of the frame time. In the following formulas the minimum frame time is calculated. When using CFR mode the frame time can get extended.

fps =

frame

Calculation of the frame time (sequential mode)

frame

≥ t

exp

+ tro+ t

row

+ t

proc

Calculation of the frame time (simultaneous mode)

frame

≥ max(t

exp

+ t

row

, tro) + t

CLK

* 2 * LP

row

= t

CLK

* (128 + LP)

= Py* t

row

proc

= 18 * t

CLK

(free running); 22 * t

CLK

(exsync or external trigger)

frame

frame time

exp

exposure time

row

readout time of one row

readout time

proc

processing time in sequential readout

CLK

sensor clock cycle length

number of pixels in y-direction

LP line pause, constant LP = 4

4.5 Reduction of Image Size 35

4 Functionality

Parameter Value

exp

10 µs - 1.04 s

CLK

15.15 ns

Window H

Table 4.4: Camera speciﬁc values for frame time calculations

A calculator for calculating the maximum frame rate is available in the support area of the Photonfocus website (www.photonfocus.com).

4.5.2 Multiple Regions of Interest (MROI)

The MV-D1280-640 camera series can handle up to 16 different regions of interest. This feature can be used to reduce the image data and increase the frame rate. An application example for using multiple regions of interest (MROI) is a laser triangulation system with several laser lines. The multiple ROIs are joined together and form a single image, which is transferred to the frame grabber. An ROI is deﬁned by its starting value in y-direction and its height. Every ROI within a MROI must be of the same width. The maximum frame rate in MROI mode depends on the number of rows being read out. Overlapping ROIs are not allowed. See Section 4.5.1 for information on the calculation of the maximum frame rate.

Figure 4.21: Multiple Regions of Interest with 5 ROIs

4.5.3 Decimation

Decimation reduces the number of pixels in y-direction. Decimation can also be used together with ROI . Decimation in y-direction transfers every nthrow only and directly results in reduced read-out time and higher frame rate respectively.

4.6 External Trigger

An external trigger is an event that starts an exposure. The trigger signal is either generated on the frame grabber (soft-trigger) or comes from an external device such as a light barrier. If a trigger signal is applied to the camera before the earliest time for the next trigger, this trigger will be ignored. The camera property Counter.MissedTrigger stores the number of trigger events which where ignored.

4.6.1 Trigger Source

The trigger signal can be conﬁgured to be active high or active low. One of the following trigger sources can be used:

Interface Trigger In the interface trigger mode, the trigger signal is applied to the camera by

the CameraLink interface.

I/O Trigger In the I/O trigger mode, the trigger signal is applied directly to the camera by the

power supply connector (over an optocoupler).

I n t e r f a c e T r i g g e r

D A T A

C a m e r a

o p t o I / O

C L

F r a m e g r a b b e r

A n y T r i g g e r S o u r c e

I / O T r i g g e r

A n y T r i g g e r S o u r c e

Figure 4.22: Trigger Inputs

4.6.2 Trigger Mode

Depending on the trigger mode, the exposure time can be determined either by the camera or by the trigger signal itself:

Camera-controlled Exposure In this trigger mode the exposure time is deﬁned by the camera.

For an active high trigger signal, the camera starts the exposure with a positive trigger edge and stops it when the preprogrammed exposure time has elapsed. The exposure time is deﬁned by the software.

Level-controlled Exposure In this trigger mode the exposure time is deﬁned by the pulse width

of the trigger pulse. For an active high trigger signal, the camera starts the exposure with the positive edge of the trigger signal and stops it with the negative edge.

Level-controlled Exposure is not available in simultaneous readout mode.

Figure 4.23 gives an overview over the available trigger modes. The signal ExSync stands for the trigger signal, which is provided either through the interface or the I/O trigger. For more information and the respective timing diagrams see Section 5.4

4.6 External Trigger 37

4 Functionality

C a m e r a c o n t r o l l e d e x p o s u r e

L e v e l c o n t r o l l e d e x p o s u r e

E x p o s u r e S t a r t E x p o s u r e S t o p

E x S y n c C a m e r a

E x S y n c E x S y n c

P o l a r i t y A c t i v e H i g h

E x p o s u r e S t a r t E x p o s u r e S t o p

E x S y n c C a m e r a

E x S y n c E x S y n c

P o l a r i t y A c t i v e L o w

R i s i n g E d g e

F a l l i n g E d g e

Figure 4.23: Trigger Inputs

4.6.3 Trigger Delay

Programmable delay in milliseconds between the incoming trigger edge and the start of the exposure. This feature may be required to synchronize to external strobe with the exposure of the camera.

4.7 Strobe Output

The strobe output is an opto-isolated output located on the power supply connector that can be used to trigger a strobe. The strobe output can be used both in free-running and in trigger mode. There is a programmable delay available to adjust the strobe pulse to your application.

The strobe output needs a separate power supply. Please see Section 5.1.3 for more information.

4.8 Conﬁguration Interface (CameraLink)

A CameraLink camera can be controlled by the user via a RS232 compatible asynchronous serial interface. This interface is contained within the CameraLink interface as shown in Fig. 4.24 and is physically not directly accessible. Instead, the serial communication is usually routed through the frame grabber. For some frame grabbers it might be necessary to connect a serial cable from the frame grabber to the serial interface of the PC. .

C a m e r a L i n k

C a m e r a

I m a g e d a t a , F V A L , L V A L , D V A L

P i x e l C l o c k

C C S i g n a l s

S e r i a l I n t e r f a c e

F r a m e g r a b b e r

C a m e r a L i n k

Figure 4.24: CameraLink serial interface for camera communication

4.8 Conﬁguration Interface (CameraLink) 39

4 Functionality

Hardware Interface

5.1 Connectors

5.1.1 CameraLink Connector

The CameraLink cameras are interfaced to external components via

• two CameraLink connectors, which are deﬁned by the CameraLink standard as a 26 pin,

0.05" Mini Delta-Ribbon (MDR) connector to transmit conﬁguration, image data and trigger.

• a subminiature connector for the power supply and external trigger input and strobe output, 7-pin Binder series 712.

The connectors are located on the back of the camera. Fig. 5.1 shows the plugs and the status LED which indicates camera operation.

P o w e r S u p p l y C o n n e c t o r

S t a t u s L E D ' s

C a m e r a L i n k C o n n e c t o r s

Figure 5.1: Rear view of the CameraLink camera

CAMERA_LINK0 = CameraLink base connector; CAMERA_LINK1 = CameraLink medium/full connector. The CameraLink interface and connector are speciﬁed in [CL]. For further details including the pinout please refer to Appendix A. This connector is used to transmit conﬁguration, image data and trigger signals.

5.1.2 Power Supply

The camera requires a single voltage input (see Table 3.3). The camera meets all performance speciﬁcations using standard switching power supplies, although well-regulated linear power supplies provide optimum performance.

It is extremely important that you apply the appropriate voltages to your camera. Incorrect voltages will damage the camera.

For further details including the pinout please refer to Appendix A.

5 Hardware Interface

5.1.3 Trigger and Strobe Signals

The power connector contains an external trigger input and a strobe output.

The input voltage to the TRIGGER pin must not exceed +15V DC, to avoid damage to the internal optocoupler!

In order to use the strobe output, the internal optocoupler must be powered with 5 .. 15 V DC. The STROBE signal is an open-collector output, therefore, the user must connect a pull-up resistor (see Table 5.1) to STROBE_VDD (5 .. 15 V DC) as shown in Fig. 5.2. This resistor should be located directly at the signal receiver.

Figure 5.2: Circuit for the trigger input and strobe output signals

The maximum sink current of the STROBE pin is 8 mA. Do not connect inductive or capacitive loads, such loads may result in damage of the optocoupler! If the

application requires this, please use voltage suppressor diodes in parallel with this components to protect the opto coupler.

The recommended sink current of the TRIGGER pin is 5 mA.

STROBE_VDD Pull-up Resistor

15 V > 3.9 kOhm

10 V > 2.7 kOhm

8V > 2.2 kOhm

7V > 1.8 kOhm

5V > 1.0 kOhm

Table 5.1: Pull-up resistor for strobe output and different voltage levels

5.1.4 Status Indicator

Two dual-colour LED’s on the back of the camera gives information about the current status of the CameraLink cameras.

LED Green Green when an image is output. At slow frame rates, the LED blinks with the

FVAL signal. At high frame rates the LED changes to an apparently continuous green light, with intensity proportional to the ratio of readout time over frame time.

LED Red Red indicates an active serial communication with the camera.

Table 5.2: Meaning of the S0 LED

LED S1 is reserved for future use.

5.2 CameraLink Data Interface

The CameraLink standard contains signals for transferring the image data, control information and the serial communication. In PoCL camera models the power supply is provided by the same data interface.

Data signals: CameraLink data signals contain the image data. In addition, handshaking

signals such as FVAL, LVAL and DVAL are transmitted over the same physical channel.

Camera control information: Camera control signals (CC-signals) can be deﬁned by the camera

manufacturer to provide certain signals to the camera. There are 4 CC-signals available and all are unidirectional with data ﬂowing from the frame grabber to the camera. For example, the external trigger is provided by a CC-signal (see Table 5.3 for the CC assignment).

CC1 EXSYNC External Trigger. May be generated either by the frame grabber itself

(software trigger) or by an external event (hardware trigger).

CC2 CTRL0 Control0. This signal is reserved for future purposes and is not used.

CC3 CTRL1 Control1. This signal is reserved for future purposes and is not used.

CC4 CTRL2 Control2. This signal is reserved for future purposes and is not used.

Table 5.3: Summary of the Camera Control (CC) signals as used by Photonfocus

Pixel clock: The pixel clock is generated on the camera and is provided to the frame grabber

for synchronisation.

5.2 CameraLink Data Interface 43

5 Hardware Interface

Serial communication: A CameraLink camera can be controlled by the user via a RS232

compatible asynchronous serial interface. This interface is contained within the CameraLink interface and is physically not directly accessible. Refer to Section 4.8 for more information.

C a m e r a L i n k

C a m e r a

I m a g e d a t a , F V A L , L V A L , D V A L

P i x e l C l o c k

C C S i g n a l s

S e r i a l I n t e r f a c e

F r a m e g r a b b e r

C a m e r a L i n k

Figure 5.3: 1-tap CameraLink system

The frame grabber needs to be conﬁgured with the proper tap and resolution settings, otherwise the image will be distorted or not displayed with the correct aspect ratio. Refer to Section 3.5 for a summarised table of frame grabber relevant speciﬁcations. Fig. 5.3 shows symbolically a 1-tap system. For more information about taps refer to [AN021] on the Photonfocus website (www.photonfocus.com).

5.3 Read-out Timing

5.3.1 Free running Mode

Sequential readout timing

By default, the camera is in free running mode and delivers images without any external control signals. The sensor is operated in sequential readout mode, which means that the sensor is read out after the exposure time. Then the sensor is reset, a new exposure starts and the readout of the image information begins again. The data is output on the rising edge of the pixel clock. The signals FRAME_VALID (FVAL) and LINE_VALID (LVAL) mask valid image information. The signal SHUTTER indicates the active exposure period of the sensor and is shown for clarity only.

P C L K

S H U T T E R

F V A L

L V A L

D V A L

D A T A

L i n e p a u s e

L i n e p a u s e L i n e p a u s e

F i r s t L i n e L a s t L i n e

E x p o s u r e T i m e

F r a m e T i m e

C P R E

Figure 5.4: Timing diagram sequential readout mode

Simultaneous readout timing

To achieve highest possible frame rates, the camera must be set to "Free-running mode" with simultaneous readout. The camera continuously delivers images as fast as possible. Exposure time of the next image can start during the readout time of the current image. The data is output on the rising edge of the pixel clock. The signals FRAME_VALID (FVAL) and LINE_VALID (LVAL) mask valid image information. The signal SHUTTER indicates the active integration phase of the sensor and is shown for clarity only.

5.3 Read-out Timing 45

5 Hardware Interface

P C L K

S H U T T E R

F V A L

L V A L

D V A L

D A T A

L i n e p a u s e

L i n e p a u s e L i n e p a u s e

F i r s t L i n e L a s t L i n e

E x p o s u r e T i m e

F r a m e T i m e

C P R E

E x p o s u r e T i m e

C P R E

Figure 5.5: Timing diagram simultaneous readout mode (readout time > exposure time)

P C L K

S H U T T E R

F V A L

L V A L

D V A L

D A T A

L i n e p a u s e

L i n e p a u s e L i n e p a u s e

F i r s t L i n e L a s t L i n e

F r a m e T i m e

C P R E

E x p o s u r e T i m e

C P R E

Figure 5.6: Timing diagram simultaneous readout mode (readout time < exposure time)

Frame time Frame time is the inverse of frame rate.

Exposure time Period during which the the pixels are integrating the incoming light.

PCLK Pixel clock on CameraLink interface.

SHUTTER Internal signal, shown only for clarity. Is ’high’ during the exposure

time.

FVAL (Frame Valid) Is ’high’ while the data of one whole frame are transferred.

LVAL (Line Valid) Is ’high’ while the data of one line are transferred. Example: To transfer

an image with 640x480 pixels, there are 480 LVAL within one FVAL active high period. One LVAL lasts 640 pixel clock cycles.

DVAL (Data Valid) Is ’high’ while data are valid.

DATA Transferred pixel values. Example: For a 100x100 pixel image, there are

100 values transferred within one LVAL active high period, or 100*100 values within one FVAL period.

Line pause Delay before the ﬁrst line and after every following line when reading

out the image data.

Table 5.4: Explanation of control and data signals used in the timing diagram

These terms will be used also in the timing diagrams of Section 5.4.

5.3.2 Constant Frame Rate Mode (CFR)

When the camera is in constant frame rate mode, the frame rate can be varied up to the maximum frame rate. Thus, fewer images can be acquired than determined by the frame time. When constant frame rate is switched off, the camera outputs images with maximum speed, depending on the exposure time and the read-out time. The frame rate depends directly on the exposure time.

Constant Frame Rate mode is not available together with external trigger mode.

5.3 Read-out Timing 47

5 Hardware Interface

E x p o s u r e t i m e R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

c f r

t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

c f r

t i m e

C F R o f f

C F R o n

Figure 5.7: Constant Frame Rate with sequential readout mode

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

c f r

t i m e

c f r

t i m e

i d l e

c f r

t i m e

i d l e

c f r

t i m e

i d l e

F r a m e t i m e

C F R o f f

C F R o n

Figure 5.8: Constant Frame Rate with simultaneous readout mode (readout time > exposure time)

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

E x p o s u r e t i m e

R e a d o u t t i m e

c f r

t i m e

c f r

t i m e

idl

i d l e

c f r

t i m e

i d l e

c f r

t i m e

F r a m e t i m e

C F R o f f

C F R o n

Figure 5.9: Constant Frame Rate with simultaneous readout mode (readout time < exposure time)

5.4 Trigger

5.4.1 Trigger Modes

The following sections show the timing diagram for the trigger modes. The signal ExSync denotes the trigger signal that is provided either by the interface trigger or the I/O trigger (see Section 4.6). The other signals are explained in Table 5.4.

Camera-controlled Exposure

In the camera-controlled trigger mode, the exposure is deﬁned by the camera and is conﬁgurable by software. For an active high trigger signal, the image acquisition begins with the rising edge of the trigger signal. The image is read out after the pre-conﬁgured exposure time. After the readout, the sensor returns to the reset state and the camera waits for a new trigger pulse (see Fig. 5.10). The data is output on the rising edge of the pixel clock, the handshaking signals FRAME_VALID (FVAL) and LINE_VALID (LVAL) mask valid image information. The signal SHUTTER in Fig. 5.10 indicates the active integration phase of the sensor and is shown for clarity only.

P C L K

S H U T T E R

F V A L

L V A L

D V A L

D A T A

L i n e p a u s e

L i n e p a u s e L i n e p a u s e

F i r s t L i n e L a s t L i n e

E x p o s u r e T i m e

F r a m e T i m e

E X S Y N C

C P R E

Figure 5.10: Trigger timing diagram for camera controlled exposure

5.4 Trigger 49

5 Hardware Interface

Level-controlled Exposure

In the level-controlled trigger mode, the exposure time is deﬁned by the pulse width of the external trigger signal. For an active high trigger signal, the image acquisition begins with the rising edge and stops with the falling edge of the external trigger signal. Then the image is read out. After that, the sensor returns to the idle state and the camera waits for a new trigger pulse (see Fig. 5.11). The data is output on the rising edge of the pixel clock, the handshaking signals FRAME_VALID (FVAL) and LINE_VALID (LVAL) mask valid image information. The signal SHUTTER in Fig. 5.11 indicates the active integration phase of the sensor and is shown for clarity only.

Level-controlled exposure is supported in simultaneous readout mode.

P C L K

S H U T T E R

F V A L

L V A L

D V A L

D A T A

L i n e p a u s e

L i n e p a u s e L i n e p a u s e

F i r s t L i n e L a s t L i n e

E x p o s u r e T i m e

F r a m e T i m e

E X S Y N C

C P R E

Figure 5.11: Trigger timing diagramm for level controlled exposure

5.4.2 Trigger Delay

The total delay between the trigger edge and the camera exposure consists of the delay in the frame grabber and the camera (Fig. 5.12). Usually, the delay in the frame grabber is relatively large to avoid accidental triggers caused by voltage spikes (see Fig. 5.13). The trigger can also be delayed by the property Trigger.Delay.

I n t e r f a c e T r i g g e r

D A T A

P O R T A

P O R T B

C a m e r a

C a m e r a L i n k

r a m e G r a b b e r

I / O B o a r d

C C 1

I / O C o n t r o l

o p t o I / O

T r i g g e r S o u r c e

I / O T r i g g e r

T r i g g e r

Figure 5.12: Trigger Delay visualisation from the trigger source to the camera

d _ F G

j i t t e r

d _ c a m e r a

T R I G G E R

E X S Y N C

I n t . E X S Y N C

S H U T T E R

T r i g g e r s o u r c e

F r a m e g r a b b e r

C a m e r a

d _ o p t o I / O

d _ c a m e r a

C a m e r a o p t o I / O

C a m e r a

Figure 5.13: Timing Diagram for Trigger Delay

5.4 Trigger 51

5 Hardware Interface

For the delay in the frame grabber, please ask your frame grabber manufacturer. The camera delay consists of a constant trigger delay and a variable delay (jitter).

Trigger delay type Description

d−FG

Trigger delay of the frame grabber, refer to frame grabber manual

jitter

Variable camera trigger delay: max 15 ns in sequential readout mode, max t

row

(see Section 4.5.1) in simultaneous readout.

d−camera

Constant camera trigger delay (30.3 ns)

d−opto

Variable trigger delay of opto coupler

Table 5.5: Trigger Delay

The PFRemote Control Tool

6.1 Overview

PFRemote is a graphical conﬁguration tool for Photonfocus cameras. The latest release can be downloaded from the support area of www.photonfocus.com.

All Photonfocus cameras can be either conﬁgured by PFRemote, or they can be programmed with custom software using the PFLib SDK ([PFLIB]).

6.1.1 CameraLink Model

As shown in Fig. 6.1, the camera parameters can be controlled by PFRemote and PFLib respectively. To grab an image use the software or the SDK that was delivered with your frame grabber.

Figure 6.1: PFRemote and PFLib in context with the CameraLink frame grabber software

6.1.2 USB 2.0 Model

For the USB camera model, there is no external frame grabber necessary, as the camera connects directly to the USB 2.0 port. Instead, the frame grabber functionality was transferred into the camera.

As shown in Fig. 6.2, the camera parameters can be controlled by PFRemote and PFLib respectively. To grab an image use the MicroDisplayUSB software or the USB SDK.

Figure 6.2: PFRemote and PFLib in context with the USB 2.0 frame grabber software

The USB isochronous interface mode (fast mode 48 MBytes/sec) works only with Windows XP and ServicePack 2 and an Intel Chipset!

6 The PFRemote Control Tool

6.2 Operating System

The PFRemote GUI is available for Windows OS only. For Linux or QNX operating systems, we provide the necessary libraries to control the camera on request, but there is no graphical user interface available.

If you require support for Linux or QNX operating systems, you may contact us for details of support conditions.

6.3 Installation Notes

For CameraLink Cameras: Before installing the required software with the PFInstaller, make

sure that your frame grabber software is installed correctly.

For USB Cameras: Before installing the required software to control a Photonfocus camera

with USB 2.0 interface, make sure that no USB camera is connected to the computer.

• During PFinstaller installation, choose "Install PFRemote with USB environment".

• After the installation, power on the camera and connect it to the USB interface.

• Windows should display the "New Hardware found" wizard automatically. If this wizard is not displayed, please continue as described in the following section.

• Let the hardware wizard install the drivers. It is not necessary to allow the search for current and updated software on the Internet. Proceed by choosing the option "Install the software automatically (Recommended)". Another hardware installation message will appear, which can be ignored ("Continue Anyway").

The procedure described above applies to Windows XP and Service pack 2.

6.3.1 Manual Driver Installation (only USB 2.0 Model)

If Windows did not automatically install the driver for your USB camera, please proceed as follows:

• Open the Device Manager in the Windows Control Panel.

• There will be an unknown device called "Silicon Software GmbH microUSB2".

• Right click on the unknown device and choose "Update driver".

• The hardware update wizard will appear. It is not necessary to allow the search for current and updated software on the Internet. Click on "No, not this time" and "Next".

• Then choose "Install the software automatically (Recommended)" and proceed with "Next".

• When you get asked about the driver location, specify \Photonfocus\microDisplayUSB\driver.

This procedure applies to Windows XP and Service pack 2.

6.3.2 DLL Dependencies

Several DLLs are necessary in order to be able to communicate with the cameras:

• PFCAM.DLL: The main DLL ﬁle that handles camera detection, switching to speciﬁc camera DLL and provides the interface for the SDK.

• ’CAMERANAME’.DLL: Speciﬁc camera DLL, e.g. mv_d1024e_40.dll.

• COMDLL.DLL: Communication DLL. This COMDLL is not necessarily CameraLink speciﬁc, but may depend on a CameraLink API compatible DLL, which should also be provided by your frame grabber manufacturer.

• CLALLSERIAL.DLL: Interface to CameraLink frame grabber which supports the clallserial.dll.

• CLSER_USB.DLL: Interface to USB port.

More information about these DLLs is available in the SDK documentation [SW002].

6.3 Installation Notes 55

6 The PFRemote Control Tool

6.4 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

PFRemote consists of a main window (Fig. 6.3) and a conﬁguration dialog. In the main window, the camera port can be opened or closed, and log messages are displayed at the bottom. The conﬁguration dialog appears as a sub window as soon as a camera port was opened successfully. In the sub window of PFRemote the user can conﬁgure the camera properties. The following sections describe the general structure of PFRemote.

6.4.1 Port Browser

On start, PFRemote displays a list of available communication ports in the main window.

Figure 6.3: PFRemote main window with PortBrowser and log messages

To open a camera on a speciﬁc port double click on the port name (e.g. USB). Alternatively

right click on the port name and choose Open & Conﬁgure.... The port is then queried for a

compatible Photonfocus camera. In the PFRemote main window, there are two menus with the following entries available:

File Menu

Clear Log: Clears the log ﬁle buffer

Quit: Exit the program

Help Menu

About: Copyright notice and version information

Help F1: Invoke the online help (PFRemote documentation)

6.4.2 Ports, Device initialization

After starting PFRemote, the main window as shown in Fig. 6.3 will appear. In the PortBrowser in the upper left corner you will see a list of supported ports.

Depending on the conﬁguration, your port names may differ, and not every port may be functional.

If your frame grabber supports clallserial.dll version 1.1 ( CameraLink compliant standard Oct 2001), the name of the manufacturer is shown in the PortBrowser.

If your frame grabber supports clallserial.dll version 1.0 (CameraLink compliant standard Oct 2000), the PortBrowser shows either the name of the dll or the manufacturer name or displays "Unknown".

If your frame grabber doesn’t support clallserial.dll, copy the clserXXXX.dll of your frame grabber in the PFRemote directory and rename it to clser.dll. The PortBrowser will then indicate this DLL as "clser.dll at PFRemote directory".

After connecting the camera, the device can be opened with a double click on the port name or by right-clicking on the port name and choosing Open & Conﬁgure. If the initialisation of the camera was successful, the conﬁguration dialog will open. The device is closed when PFRemote is closed. Alternatively, e.g. when connecting another camera or evaluation kit, the device can also be closed explicitely by right clicking on the port name and choosing Close. Make sure that the conﬁguration dialog is closed prior to closing the port.

✎

Errors, warnings or other important activities are logged in a log window at the bottom of the main window.

If the device does not open, check the following:

• Is the power LED of the camera active? Do you get an image in the display software of your frame grabber?

• Verify all cable connections and the power supply.

• Check the communication LED of the camera: do you see some activity when you try to access the camera?

6.4 Graphical User Interface (GUI) 57

6 The PFRemote Control Tool

6.4.3 Main Buttons

The buttons on the right side of the conﬁguration dialog store and reset the camera conﬁguration.

Figure 6.4: Main buttons

Reset: Reset the camera and load the default conﬁguration.

Store as defaults: Store the current conﬁguration in the camera ﬂash memory as the default

conﬁguration. After a reset, the camera will load this conﬁguration by default.

Settings ﬁle - File Load: Load a stored conﬁguration from a ﬁle.

Settings ﬁle - File Save: Save current conﬁguration to a ﬁle.

Factory Reset: Reset camera and reset the conﬁguration to the factory defaults.

6.5 Device properties

Cameras or sensor devices are generally addressed as ’device’ in this software. These devices have properties that are accessed by a property name. These property names are translated into register accesses on the driver DLL. The property names are reﬂected in the GUI as far as practicable. A property name normally has a special mark up throughout this document, for example: ExposureTime. Some properties are grouped into a structure whose member is accessed via dot notation, e.g. Window.X (for the start X value of a region of interest). When changing a property, the property name can always be seen in the log window of the main program window.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1 MV2-D1280-640

The following sections are grouped according to the tabs in the conﬁguration dialog.

Figure 7.1: Frame rate and average value

Frame Rate [fps ] Shows the actual frame rate of the camera in frames per second.

Update: To update the value of the frame rate, click on this button.

Average Value: Greyscale average of the actual image. This value is in 8 bit (0...255 DN) format.

Update: To update the value of the average, click on this button.

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.1 Exposure

This tab contains exposure settings.

Figure 7.2: MV2-D1280-640 Exposure panel

Exposure

Exposure time [ms ] Conﬁgure the exposure time in milliseconds.

Constant Frame Rate: When the Constant Frame Rate (CFR) is switched on, the frame rate

(number of frames per second) can be varied from almost 0 up to the maximum frame rate. Thus, fewer images can be acquired than would otherwise be possible. When Constant Frame Rate is switched off, the camera delivers images as fast as possible, depending on the exposure time and the read-out time.

Frame time [ms ] Conﬁgure the frame time in milliseconds. Only available if Constant Frame

Rate is enabled. The minimum frame time depends on the exposure time and readout time.

Information

The Information properties provide information about the acquired images.

Image Counter: The image counter is a 24 bit real-time counter and is incremented by 1 for

every new image.

Missed Trigger Counter: This is a counter for trigger pulses that were blocked because the

trigger pulse was received during image exposure or readout. In free-running mode it counts all pulses received from interface trigger or from I/O trigger interface.

To update the value of the information properties, click on the Update-Button; to reset the properties, click on the Reset-Button.

Readout Mode

Simultaneous readout (interleave): Enable simultaneous readout to increase framerate

Black Level Offset

It may be necessary to adjust the black level offset of the camera.

Black Level Offset: Black level offset value. Use this to adjust the black level.

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 61

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.2 Window

This tab contains ROI and decimation settings.

Figure 7.3: MV2-D1280-640 window panel

Region of Interest

The region of interest (ROI) is deﬁned as a rectangle (X, Y), (W, H) where

X: X - coordinate, starting from 0 in the upper left corner.

Y: Y - coordinate, starting from 0 in the upper left corner.

W: Window width (in steps of 8 pixels in 8 tap output mode and in steps of 40 pixels in 10 tap

output mode).

H: Window height.

Set to max ROI: Set Window to maximal ROI (X=0; Y=0; W=1280; H=1024).

Decimation

Decimation reduces the number of pixels in y-direction. Decimation can also be used together with a ROI or MROI. Decimation in y-direction transfers every n-th row only and directly results in reduced read-out time and higher frame rate respectively.

Decimation Y: Decimation value for y-direction. Example: Value = 4 reads every fourth row

only.

Multi - ROI

The MV-D1280-640 camera can handle up to 16 different regions of interest. The multiple ROIs are joined together and form a single image, which is transferred to the frame grabber. An ROI is deﬁned by its starting value in y-direction and its height. The width and the horizontal offset are speciﬁed by X and W settings. The maximum frame rate in MROI mode depends on the number of rows and columns being read out. Overlapping ROIs are not allowed.

Enable MROI: Enable MROI. If MROI is enabled, the ROI and MROI settings cannot be changed.

MROI_X: Select one of the MROI settings.

Y: Y - coordinate of the selected MROI. If Y is set to 1023, this and all further MROI settings will

be ignored.

H: Height of the selected MROI.

H tot: Shows the sum of all MROIs as the total image height.

After changing a property, always press Enter in order to make the change active.

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 63

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.3 Trigger

This tab contains trigger and strobe settings.

Figure 7.4: MV2-D1280-640 trigger panel

Trigger

Trigger Source:

Free running: The camera continuously delivers images with a certain conﬁgurable frame rate.

Interface Trigger: The Trigger signal is applied to the camera by the CameraLink frame grabber

or the USB interface respectively.

I/O Trigger: The trigger signal is applied directly to the camera on the power supply connector.

Exposure time deﬁned by:

Camera: The exposure time is deﬁned by the property ExposureTime.

Trigger Pulse Width: The exposure time is deﬁned by the pulse width of the trigger signal

(level-controlled exposure).

This property disables simultaneous readout mode.

Further trigger settings:

Trigger Delay: Programmable delay in milliseconds between the incoming trigger edge and

the start of the exposure.

Trigger signal active low: Deﬁne the trigger signal to be active high (default) or active low.

Strobe

The camera generates a strobe output signal that can be used to trigger a strobe. The delay, pulse width and polarity can be deﬁned by software. To turn off strobe output, set StrobePulseWidth to 0.

Strobe Delay [ms ] Delay in milliseconds from the input trigger edge to the rising edge of the

strobe output signal.

Strobe Pulse Width [ms ] The pulse width of the strobe trigger in milliseconds.

Strobe signal active low: Deﬁne the strobe output to be active high (default) or active low.

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 65

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.4 Data Output

This tab contains image data settings.

Figure 7.5: MV2-D1280-640 data output panel

Output Mode

Output Mode:

Normal: Normal mode.

LFSR: Test image. Linear feedback shift register (pseudo-random image). The pattern depends

on the grey level resolution.

Ramp: Test image. Values of pixel are incremented by 1, starting at each row. The pattern

depends on the grey level resolution.

LUT: Look-Up-Table, a 10-to-8-bit mapping of grey levels.

Digital Gain:

1x: No digital gain, normal mode.

2x: Digital gain 2.

4x: Digital gain 4.

CameraLink Mode:

8 taps: CameraLink Full 8 Taps 8 Bits output

10 taps: CameraLink Full 10 Taps 8 Bits output

Look-Up-Table

Grey level transformation is remapping of the grey level values of an input image to new values which transform the image in some way. The look-up-table (LUT) is used to convert the greyscale value of each pixel in an image into another grey value. It is typically used to implement a transfer curve for contrast expansion. The MV2-D1280-640 camera performs a 10-to-8-bit mapping, so that 1024 input grey levels can be mapped to 256 output grey levels (0 to 1023 and 0 to 255). The default LUT is a gain function with value = 1. Lut Mode:

Gain: Linear function. Y = 255 / 1023 * value * X; Valid range for value [1...4].

Gamma: Gamma function. Y = 255 / 1023^value * X ^ value; Valid range for value [0.4...4].

value: Enter a value. The LUT will be calculated and downloaded to the camera.

Load File...: Load a user deﬁned LUT - ﬁle into the camera (*.txt tab delimited). There is an

example in the PFRemote directory (mv_d1280_640_lut.txt).

Save File...: Save LUT from camera into a ﬁle.

It is also possible to load a user LUT-ﬁle with missing input values (LUT-addresses). Then only pixel values corresponding to listed LUT entries will be overwritten. Example of a user deﬁned LUT ﬁle:

Figure 7.6: Example of a user deﬁned LUT ﬁle

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 67

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.5 Correction

This tab contains correction settings.

Figure 7.7: MV2-D1280-640 correction panel

Correction Mode

This camera has image pre-processing features, that compensate for non-uniformities caused by the sensor, the lens or the illumination.

Off: No correction.

Offset: Activate offset correction

Offset + Gain: Activate offset and gain correction.

Black Reference Image: Output the black reference image that is currently stored in the

camera RAM (for debugging reasons).

Grey Reference Image: Output the grey reference image that is currently stored in the camera

RAM (for debugging reasons).

Calibration

Offset (FPN) Correction: The offset (Fixed Pattern Noise FPN) correction is based on a black

reference image, which is taken at no illumination (e.g. lens aperture completely closed). The black reference image contains the ﬁxed-pattern noise of the sensor, which can be subtracted from the live images in order to minimize the static noise. Close the lens of the camera. Click on the Validation button. If the Set Black Ref - button is still inactive, the average of the image is out of range. Change to panel Exposure and change the Property BlackLevelOffset until the average of the image is between 160 and 400DN. Click again on the Validation button and then on the Set Black Ref Button.

If only offset correction is needed it is not necessary to calibrate a grey image (see Calculate).

Gain Correction: The gain correction is based on a grey reference image, which is taken at

uniform illumination to give an image with a mid grey level.

Gain correction is not a trivial feature. The quality of the grey reference image is crucial for proper gain correction.

Produce a grey image with an average between 2200 and 3600DN. Click on the Validation button to check the average. If the average is in range, the Set Grey Ref button is active.

Calculate: Calculate the correction values into the camera RAM. To make the correction values

permanent, use the ’Save to Flash’ button.

Save to Flash: Save the current correction values to the internal ﬂash memory.

This will overwrite the factory presets.

7.1 MV2-D1280-640 69

7 Graphical User Interface (GUI)

7.1.6 Info

This panel shows camera speciﬁc information such as type code, serial number and ﬁrmware revision of the FPGA and microcontroller and the description of the camera interface.

Figure 7.8: MV2-D1280-640 info panel

Typecode: Type code of the connected camera.

Serial: Serial number of the connected camera.

FPGA Sensor Revision: Firmware revision of built-in Sensor FPGA of the connected camera.

uC Revision: Firmware revision of built-in microcontroller of the connected camera.

Interface: Description of the camera interface.

For any support requests, please enclose the information provided on this tab.

Mechanical and Optical Considerations

8.1 Mechanical Interface

The general mechanical data of the cameras are listed in section 3, Table 3.3. During storage and transport, the camera should be protected against vibration, shock, moisture and dust. The original packaging protects the camera adequately from vibration and shock during storage and transport. Please either retain this packaging for possible later use or dispose of it according to local regulations.

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Figure 8.1: Mechanical dimensions of the CameraLink model

All dimensions are in mm. The optional lens mount adapters extend the overall dimensions (see Table 8.1).

8 Mechanical and Optical Considerations

Adapter approx. Extension [mm]

C-Mount adapter 10

F-Mount adapter 40

Table 8.1: Dimension extension of the lens mount adapters

8.2 Optical Interface

8.2.1 Mounting the Lens

Remove the protective cap from the lens thread of the camera and install the lens. When removing the protective cap or changing the lens, the camera should always be held with the opening facing downwards to prevent dust from falling onto the CMOS sensor. If the lens is removed, the protective cap should be reﬁtted. If the camera is operated in a dusty environment, we recommend the use of a constant stream of clean air in front of the objective.

8.2.2 Cleaning the sensor

Cleaning the Sensor

The sensor is part of the optical path and should be handled like other optical components: with extreme care. Dust can obscure pixels, producing dark patches in the images captured. Dust is most visible when the illumination is collimated. Dark patches caused by dust or dirt shift position as the angle of illumination changes. Dust is normally not visible when the sensor is positioned at the exit port of an integrating sphere, where the illumination is diffuse.

1. The camera should only be cleaned in ESD-safe areas by ESD-trained personnel using wrist straps. Ideally, the sensor should be cleaned in a clean environment. Otherwise, in dusty environments, the sensor will immediately become dirty again after cleaning.

2. Use a high quality, low pressure air duster (e.g. Electrolube EAD400D, pure compressed inert gas, www.electrolube.com) to blow off loose particles. This step alone is usually sufﬁcient to clean the sensor of the most common contaminants.

Workshop air supply is not appropriate and may cause permanent damage to the sensor.

3. If further cleaning is required, use a suitable lens wiper or Q-Tip moistened with an appropriate cleaning ﬂuid to wipe the sensor surface as described below. Examples of suitable lens cleaning materials are given in Table 8.2. Cleaning materials must be ESD-safe, lint-free and free from particles that may scratch the sensor surface.

Do not use ordinary cotton buds. These do not fulﬁl the above requirements and permanent damage to the sensor may result.

4. Wipe the sensor carefully and slowly. First remove coarse particles and dirt from the sensor using Q-Tips soaked in 2-propanol, applying as little pressure as possible. Using a method similar to that used for cleaning optical surfaces, clean the sensor by starting at any corner of the sensor and working towards the opposite corner. Finally, repeat the procedure with methanol to remove streaks. It is imperative that no pressure be applied

to the surface of the sensor or to the black globe-top material (if present) surrounding the optically active surface during the cleaning process.

Product Supplier Remark

EAD400D Airduster Electrolube, UK www.electrolube.com

Anticon Gold 9"x 9" Wiper Milliken, USA ESD safe and suitable for

class 100 environments. www.milliken.com

TX4025 Wiper Texwipe www.texwipe.com

Transplex Swab Texwipe

Small Q-Tips SWABS BB-003

Q-tips Hans J. Michael GmbH,

Germany

www.hjm.de

Large Q-Tips SWABS CA-003

Q-tips Hans J. Michael GmbH,

Germany

Point Slim HUBY-340 Q-tips Hans J. Michael GmbH,

Germany

Methanol Fluid Johnson Matthey GmbH,

Germany

Semiconductor Grade

99.9% min (Assay), Merck 12,6024, UN1230, slightly ﬂammable and poisonous. www.alfa-chemcat.com

2-Propanol (Iso-Propanol)

Fluid Johnson Matthey GmbH,

Germany

Semiconductor Grade

99.5% min (Assay) Merck 12,5227, UN1219, slightly ﬂammable. www.alfa-chemcat.com

Table 8.2: Recommended materials for sensor cleaning

For cleaning the sensor, Photonfocus recommends the products available from the suppliers as listed in Table 8.2.

✎

Cleaning tools (except chemicals) can be purchased from Photonfocus (www.photonfocus.com).

8.2 Optical Interface 73

8 Mechanical and Optical Considerations

8.3 Compliance

C E C o m p l i a n c e S t a t e m e n t

M V - D 1 0 2 4 - 2 8 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 1 0 2 4 - 8 0 - C L - 8 , M V - D 1 0 2 4 - 1 6 0 - C L - 8

M V - D 7 5 2 - 2 8 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 7 5 2 - 8 0 - C L - 8 , M V - D 7 5 2 - 1 6 0 - C L - 8

M V - D 6 4 0 - 3 3 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 6 4 0 - 6 6 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 6 4 0 - 4 8 - U 2 - 8 M V - D 6 4 0 C - 3 3 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 6 4 0 C - 6 6 - C L - 1 0 , M V - D 6 4 0 C - 4 8 - U 2 - 8

M V - D 1 0 2 4 E - 4 0 , M V - D 7 5 2 E - 4 0 , M V - D 7 5 0 E - 2 0 ( C a m e r a L i n k a n d U S B 2 . 0 M o d e l s ) , M V - D 1 0 2 4 E - 8 0 , M V - D 1 0 2 4 E - 1 6 0

M V - D 1 0 2 4 E - P P 0 1

M V 2 - D 1 2 8 0 - 6 4 0 - C L - 8

S M 2 - D 1 0 2 4 - 8 0

D S 1 - D 1 0 2 4 - 4 0 - C L , D S 1 - D 1 0 2 4 - 4 0 - U 2 , D S 1 - D 1 0 2 4 - 8 0 - C L , D S 1 - D 1 0 2 4 - 1 6 0 - C L

D S 1 - D 1 3 1 2 - 1 6 0 - C L

D i g i p e a t e r C L B 2 6

a r e i n c o m p l i a n c e w i t h t h e b e l o w m e n t i o n e d s t a n d a r d s a c c o r d i n g t o t h e p r o v i s i o n s o f E u r o p e a n S t a n d a r d s D i r e c t i v e s :

W e ,

P h o t o n f o c u s A G , C H - 8 8 5 3 L a c h e n , S w i t z e r l a n d

d e c l a r e u n d e r o u r s o l e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y t h a t t h e f o l l o w i n g p r o d u c t s

E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 6 - 3 : 2 0 0 1 E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 6 - 2 : 2 0 0 1 E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 4 - 6 : 1 9 9 6 E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 4 - 4 : 1 9 9 6 E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 4 - 3 : 1 9 9 6 E N 6 1 0 0 0 - 4 - 2 : 1 9 9 5 E N 5 5 0 2 2 : 1 9 9 4

P h o t o n f o c u s A G , J u n e 2 0 0 8

Figure 8.2: CE Compliance Statement

Warranty

The manufacturer alone reserves the right to recognize warranty claims.

9.1 Warranty Terms

The manufacturer warrants to distributor and end customer that for a period of two years from the date of the shipment from manufacturer or distributor to end customer (the "Warranty Period") that:

• the product will substantially conform to the speciﬁcations set forth in the applicable documentation published by the manufacturer and accompanying said product, and

• the product shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

The distributor shall not make or pass on to any party any warranty or representation on behalf of the manufacturer other than or inconsistent with the above limited warranty set.

9.2 Warranty Claim

The above warranty does not apply to any product that has been modiﬁed or altered by any party other than manufacturer, or for any defects caused by any use of the product in a manner for which it was not designed, or by the negligence of any party other than manufacturer.

9 Warranty

References

All referenced documents can be downloaded from our website at www.photonfocus.com.

CL CameraLink Speciﬁcation, Rev. 1.1, January 2004

SW002 PFLib Documentation, Photonfocus, October 2007

AN007 Application Note "Camera Acquisition Modes", Photonfocus, March 2004

AN010 Application Note "Camera Clock Concepts", Photonfocus, July 2004

AN021 Application Note "CameraLink", Photonfocus, July 2004

AN026 Application Note "LFSR Test Images", Photonfocus, September 2005

10 References

Pinouts

A.1 Power Supply

The power supply plugs are available from Binder connectors at www.binder-connector.de.

It is extremely important that you apply the appropriate voltages to your camera. Incorrect voltages will damage or destroy the camera.

Figure A.1: Power connector assembly

A.1.1 Power Supply Connector

Connector Type Order Nr.

7-pole, plastic 99-0421-00-07

7-pole, metal 99-0421-10-07

Table A.1: Power supply connectors (Binder subminiature series 712)

A Pinouts

Figure A.2: Power supply plug, 7-pole (rear view of plug, solder side)

Pin I/O Type Name Description

1 PWR VDD +12 V DC (- 10%) ... +24 V DC (+10%)

2 PWR GND Ground

3 O RESERVED Do not connect

4 PWR STROBE-VDD +5 .. +15 V DC

5 O STROBE Strobe control (opto-isolated)

6 I TRIGGER External trigger (opto-isolated), +5 .. +15V DC

7 PWR GROUND Signal ground (for opto-isolated strobe signal)

Table A.2: Power supply plug pin assignment

A.2 CameraLink Connectors

The pinout for the CameraLink 26 pin, 0.05" Mini D-Ribbon (MDR) connectors are according to the CameraLink standard ([CL]) and is listed here for reference only (see Table A.4). The drawing of the CameraLink cable plug is shown in Fig. A.3. CameraLink cables can be purchased from Photonfocus directly (www.photonfocus.com).

21 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 0 1 1 1 2 1 3

1 4 1 5 1 6 1 7 1 8 1 9 2 0 2 1 2 2 2 3 2 4 2 5 2 6

Figure A.3: CameraLink cable 3M MDR-26 plug (both ends)

PIN IO Name Description

1 PW SHIELD Shield

2 O N_XD0 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X0

3 O N_XD1 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X1

4 O N_XD2 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X2

5 O N_XCLK Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock X

6 O N_XD3 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X3

7 I P_SERTOCAM Positive LVDS Input, Serial Communication to the camera

8 O N_SERTOFG Negative LVDS Output, Serial Communication from the camera

9 I N_CC1 Negative LVDS Input, Camera Control 1 (CC1)

10 I N_CC2 Positive LVDS Input, Camera Control 2 (CC2)

11 I N_CC3 Negative LVDS Input, Camera Control 3 (CC3)

12 I P_CC4 Positive LVDS Input, Camera Control 4 (CC4)

13 PW SHIELD Shield

14 PW SHIELD Shield

15 O P_XD0 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X0

16 O P_XD1 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data D1

17 O P_XD2 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X2

18 O P_XCLK Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock X

19 O P_XD3 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data X3

20 I N_SERTOCAM Negative LVDS Input, Serial Communication to the camera

21 O P_SERTOFG Positive LVDS Output, Serial Communication from the camera

22 I P_CC1 Positive LVDS Input, Camera Control 1 (CC1)

23 I N_CC2 Negative LVDS Input, Camera Control 2 (CC2)

24 I P_CC3 Positive LVDS Input, Camera Control 3 (CC3)

25 I N_CC4 Negative LVDS Input, Camera Control 4 (CC4)

26 PW SHIELD Shield

S PW SHIELD Shield

Table A.3: Pinout CameraLink connector 0

A.2 CameraLink Connectors 81

A Pinouts

PIN IO Name Description

1 PW SHIELD Shield

2 O N_YD0 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y0

3 O N_YD1 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y1

4 O N_YD2 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y2

5 O N_YCLK Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock Y

6 O N_YD3 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y3

7 O 100Ω

8 O N_ZD0 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z0

9 O N_ZD1 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z1

10 O N_ZD2 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z2

11 O N_ZCLK Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock Z

12 O N_ZD3 Negative LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z3

13 PW SHIELD Shield

14 PW SHIELD Shield

15 O P_YD0 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y0

16 O P_YD1 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y1

17 O P_YD2 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y2

18 O P_YCLK Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock Y

19 O P_YD3 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Y3

20 I terminated

21 O P_ZD0 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z0

22 O P_ZD1 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z1

23 O P_ZD2 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z2

24 O P_ZCLK Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Clock Z

25 O P_ZD2 Positive LVDS Output, CameraLink Data Z3

26 PW SHIELD Shield

S PW SHIELD Shield

Table A.4: Pinout CameraLink connector 1

Revision History

Revision Date Changes

1.2 2008-07-10 Syntactic ﬁxes, additional comments on ROI settings

Added chapter "Optical Interface"

1.1 2008-05-27 Power consumption corrected.

Exposure time maximum reduced to 100 ms.

Added reference to F-Mount adapter.

Added information about shock and vibration tests.

Exposure time increment corrected.

Image resolution for ﬂat histogram in test images corrected.

1.0 2007-12-19 Release

Table B.1: Revision history

Photon Focus MV2-D1280-640 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual