FireWire-CAM-001
FireWire-CAM-002
Manual
1st Edition
A product of a PHYTEC Technology Holding company
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
In this manual are descriptions for copyrighted products that are not explicitly
indicated as such. The absence of the trademark () and copyright () symbols
does not imply that a product is not protected. Additionally, registered patents and
trademarks are similarly not expressly indicated in this manual.
The information in this document has been carefully checked and is believed to be
entirely reliable. However, PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH assumes no
responsibility for any inaccuracies. PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH neither gives
any guarantee nor accepts any liability whatsoever for consequential damages
resulting from the use of this manual or its associated product. PHYTEC
Messtechnik GmbH reserves the right to alter the information contained herein
without prior notification and accepts no responsibility for any damages which
might result.
Additionally, PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH offers no guarantee nor accepts an y
liability for damages arising from the improper usage or improper installation of
the hardware or software. PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH furthe r reserves the right
to alter the layout and/or design of the hardware without prior notification and
accepts no liability for doing so.
Copyright 2005 PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH, D-55129 Mainz.
Rights - including those of translation, reprint, broadcast, photomechanical or
similar reproduction and storage or processing in computer systems, in whole or
in part - are reserved. No reproduction may occur without the express written
consent from PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH.
EUROPE NORTH AMERICA
Address:
Ordering
Information:
Technical
Support:
Fax: +49 (6131) 9221-33 1 (206) 780-9135
Web Site: http://www.phytec.de http://www.phytec.com
PHYTEC Technologie Holding AG
Robert-Koch-Str. 39
D-55129 Mainz
GERMANY
+49 (800) 0749832
order@phytec.de
+49 (6131) 9221-31
support@phytec.de
PHYTEC America LLC
203 Parfitt Way SW, Suite G100
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
USA
1 (800) 278-9913
sales@phytec.com
1 (800) 278-9913
support@phytec.com
1st Edition February 2005
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Table of Contents
1 Delivery Contents ................................................................................1
1.1 Accessories...................................................................................1
1.2 What you Need for the Initial Start-Up ........................................3
1.3 Features of the FireWire-CAM-001 / 002....................................5
1.4 Important Notes............................................................................6
1.5 Declaration of Conformity............................................................7
1.6 Overview of Connectors and Settings ..........................................8
1.6.1 Connectors.......................................................................8
1.6.2 Settings ............................................................................9
2 First Steps...........................................................................................11
2.1 Hardware Installation on a Standard PC.....................................11
2.1.1 The FireWire connection...............................................11
2.2 Laptop Installation......................................................................16
2.2.1 The FireWire Connection..............................................16
2.2.2 Installation of a FireWire Interface Card (Laptop) .......19
2.3 Installation of the Driver Software.............................................21
2.4 Mounting a Lens.........................................................................27
2.5 Starting Up the Camera with the Demo Program.......................30
2.5.1 The First Live Image .....................................................30
2.5.2 Problem Solving............................................................32
2.5.3 Adjusting Camera Settings............................................ 33
3 The Camera in Detail........................................................................39
3.1 Camera Connections...................................................................39
3.2 Connecting the Lens...................................................................40
3.3 Mechanical Attachment..............................................................43
3.4 Camera Settings..........................................................................45
3.4.1 Camera Settings: Standards...........................................46
3.4.2 Camera Settings in Detail..............................................46
3.5 Spectral Behavior........................................................................52
3.5.1 FireWire-CAM-001 (monochromatic)..........................52
3.5.2 FireWire-CAM-002 (Color)..........................................53
3.6 How to Maximize Image Quality...............................................57
3.6.1 Lens ...............................................................................57
3.6.2 Lighting .........................................................................57
3.6.3 Camera Setup.................................................................63
Table of Contents
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
4 The Software Concept.......................................................................69
4.1 Layers Standards of the FireWire-CAM Series .........................69
4.2 Accessing the Camera Driver.....................................................71
4.3 Working with the Filter Graph Editor........................................72
4.3.1 How to Get the Filter Graph Editor...............................72
4.3.2 Working with the Filter Graph Editor...........................72
4.3.3 How the Camera Appears in the Filter Graph Editor....73
5 Technical Data...................................................................................75
6 Dimensions.........................................................................................77
Table of Figures
Figure 1: FireWire Connector Cable 6-Pin/6-Pin Type................................1
Figure 2: Firewire Connecting Cable 6-Pin/4-Pin Type...............................2
Figure 3: Components of a FireWire System ...............................................3
Figure 4: Rear View......................................................................................8
Figure 5: Connecting the FireWire Cameras with the Computer (PC) ........8
Figure 6: A 6-Pin FireWire Socket.............................................................11
Figure 7: FireWire and i.LINK lLgos.........................................................12
Figure 8: FireWire Connecting Cable 6-Pole/6-Pole Type........................12
Figure 9: Insertion of the Card into the PCI Slot........................................15
Figure 10:4-Pole FireWire Socket...............................................................16
Figure 11:FireWire and i.LINK Logos........................................................16
Figure 12:FireWire Connecting Cable 6-Pin/4-Pin Type............................17
Figure 13:Camera Connectors .....................................................................19
Figure 14:Camera Connectors .....................................................................21
Figure 15:Title Menu of the „Vision Tools“ - CD ......................................22
Figure 16:Installation Menu for the FireWire Camera................................23
Figure 17:Driver Installation, Step 1 ...........................................................24
Figure 18:Driver Installation, Step 2 ...........................................................25
Figure 19:Driver Installation, Compatibility Warning................................25
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Table of Contents
Figure 20: Driver Installation, Step 3..........................................................26
Figure 21: Lens Assembly (C-Mount)........................................................27
Figure 22: Flange Back Distances and Mountig of C-Mount (Top) /
CS-Mount (Bottom) Lenses.......................................................28
Figure 23: The Program „AMCap“.............................................................31
Figure 24: AMCap – Select Device............................................................31
Figure 25: AMCap – Activate Preview Function .......................................31
Figure 26: Camera Setting „Stream Format“..............................................34
Figure 27: Camera Setting „Video Control“...............................................35
Figure 28: Camera Setting „Auto Exposure“..............................................36
Figure 29: Camera Connections..................................................................39
Figure 30: Mounting Plate ..........................................................................43
Figure 31: Attachment of the Mounting Plate.............................................44
Figure 32: Mounting Options of the FireWire-CAM..................................44
Figure 33: Block Diagram of the FireWire-CAM-001/002........................45
Figure 34: Test Pattern................................................................................49
Figure 35: Spectral Response (FireWire_CAM-001).................................53
Figure 36: Bayer Pattern Filter (ColorSensor)............................................54
Figure 37: Spectral Filter Characteristics (FireWire-CAM-002)................55
Figure 38: FireWire-CAM-002 Band Elimination Filter............................56
Figure 39: PHYTEC Ring Light Order No.: VZ-001-x, VZ-002-x............58
Figure 40: Light-Field- (Left) and Dark-Field-Lighting (Right) ................59
Figure 41: The Shadow Projection..............................................................60
Figure 42: The Structured Light..................................................................61
Figure 43: The Silhoutte Projection............................................................62
Figure 44: Transillumination.......................................................................63
Figure 45: Dimensions................................................................................77
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
1 Delivery Contents
The standard scope of supply includes the following components:
• the camera
• a C/CS-mount adapter
• a tripod adapter (bolted together with the camera)
• the software-CD SO-221
• this manual
1.1 Accessories
For the operation of the camera you normally need some additional
components.
You can obtain following material designed to be compatible with the
camera from PHYTEC:
Delivery Contents
Figure 1: FireWire Connector Cable 6-Pin/6-Pin Type
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 1.8 m
Order number WK 096-1.8
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 3.0 m
Order number WK 096-3.0
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 4.5 m
Order number WK 096-4.5
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 1
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Figure 2: Firewire Connecting Cable 6-Pin/4-Pin Type
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/4-pin type), 1.8 m
Order number WK 097-1.8
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pol/4-pin type) 3.0 m
Order number WK 097-3.0
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pol/4-pin type), 4.5 m
Order number WK 097-4.5
Hint:
• The FireWire cables with a 4-pole plug are usually needed for
connecting the camera to a laptop.
The 4-pin FireWire connection does not provide supply voltage.
When using such a ca ble you need a separate mains adapter for t he
power supply.
• Please note that the full data rate is specified for a cable length of
up to 4.5 m. The usage of longer cables is p ossi bl e b ut the data rate
will be reduced according to the bus specifications. This means
that you possibly cannot use the full image resolution or framerate.
• AC-adapter 12 V / 600 mA for separate power supply
Order number SV001
• Video lenses:
In our product range we keep a variety of high-quality lenses for
several purposes. We will gladly assist you in c hoosing an
adequate lens.
• Additional accessories:
Depending on your application you may need further components.
We are happy to assist you in case any questions should occur.
2 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
1.2 What you Need for the Initial Start-Up
For the initial basic start-up you usually need some further
components besides the FireWire-CAM itself.
These are partially dependent on the computer with which you use the
camera. In Figure 3 you get a first overview of the appropriate
accessories:
Delivery Contents
Figure 3: Components of a FireWire System
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 3
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
A C- or CS-Mount lens. Please note however that the high quality
of digital cameras should not be reduced by using lenses of low
quality (see section 3.6). PHYTEC provides a wide range of
compatible high-quality lenses.
A PHYTEC FireWire camera.
In case the IEEE 1394 bus do es not provi de supply v oltage (whi ch
is common to almost all laptop solutions), you will need an extra
mains adapter (e. g. the SV001, see above). You can use a stabilised
quality-mains adapter of your choice alternatively if it provides
8 to 40 VDC and 500 mA. Please read section 1.4,“Important
Notes"
A cable for the connection between camera and IEEE 1394 bus.
This will usually be the IEEE 1394 interface (host controller) of
your computer. PHYTEC provides s everal IEEE 1394 cables. You
can use any other cable alternatively if they comply with the IEEE
1394 standard. Please read section 1.4,“Important Notes"
A computer (PC, laptop) that meets the following requirements
Caution!
The host computer has to meet following requirements:
• 1394 interface, compatible with the standards IEEE 1394 -1995 and
IEEE 1394a (OHCI), 400 MBit/s
• processor: Pentium II, 300 MHz or higher
recommended: Pentium II, 500 MHz, 128 MB RAM or higher
for “FireWire-SDK”: PIII, 800 MHz or higher
• Graphics adaptor with 24 or 32-bit colour depth
• Operating system: Windows 2000/SP2 or Win dow s XP
• DirectX 8.1 or higher
Note:
In case you purchased a Starter-Kit, most components needed are
already contained.
Please compare the the contents of your kit with the list of required
components f irst.
4 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
1.3 Features of the FireWire-CAM-001 / 002
Both FireWire cameras feature following attributes:
• 1/4" progressive- scan CCD
• 640 x 480 pixel
• up to 30 images/s
• IEEE 1394a interface
• DCAM 1.04 protocol
• WDM Stream Class driver included
• PHYTEC-FireWire SDK included
• connection for C-/CS-Mount lenses (lens not included)
• FireWire-CAM-001: monochrome model („black/white“)
• FireWire-CAM-002: colour model
Delivery Contents
Notes:
• You can find the deta iled technical data in section 5.
• In this document and in the application software, the cameras are
sometimes referred to as FCAM-001 resp. FCAM-002.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 5
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
1.4 Important Notes
• We hereby expressly note that, according to the product liability
law, we cannot be made responsible for damages caused by our
devices if they have been used or repaired inappropriately or if, in
case of a component replacement resp. system construction, other
parts than our original components or components approved by us
have been used, and especially if the operating instructions were
not correctly followed.
• Handle the camera with care. Avoid hard shocks, concussions, etc.
The camera can be damaged by incorrect handling and wrong
storage.
• Do not try to disassemble the camera. To avoid electric shocks, do
not remove neither screws nor the case. There are no components
in the camera that need user maintenance. Maintenance work may
only be carried out by qualified maintenance personel.
• Never use strong or abrasive detergents (e. g. alcohol, benzene or
turpentine) to clean the case of the camera. Wipe the case with a
soft cloth slitht ly moistened with a n e utral cleanser.
• Never expose the camera to humidity, dust or dirt. This camera is
intended for indoor use only. Humidity can damage the camera and
cause the risk of electric shock.
• Never point the camera towards the sun or very bright objects.
Otherwise this may lead to bloom ing and smear.
• Keep the camera shut or mount a lens to avoid getting dust on the
CCD chip.
• Clean the CCD front panel carefully. Never use strong of abrasive
detergents for the cleaning of the CCD front panel.
6 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• Only use the original cable and power supply intended for the
camera. The warranty expires if other cables or power supplies are
used.
• If you would like to use the camera with another power supply,
please note that it may only be used with a low voltage of +8 to
+40 V DC (direct current). Connecting it directly to mains voltage
(e.g. 230 V AC) is a danger to life!
• The mains adapter provided with the camera (depending on supply
option) should not be used with other devices.
1.5 Declaration of Conformity
The cameras FireWire-CAM-001 and FireWire-CAM-002 meet the
EC directive 89/336/EEC for a digital device of class B. They have
been tested and thus conform to EN55024/CISPR22 and
EN55024/CISPR24.
To conform to EU standards, shielded cables have to be used to
connect other devices to the camera. The cameras have been tested in
a typical environment complying with class B. It is therefore assumed
that the cameras will also be functioning in other environments
complying wi th class B.
Delivery Contents
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 7
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
1.6 Overview of Connec tors and Settings
1.6.1 Connectors
Usually you only need the IEEE 1394 bus for
connecting the camera. This bus transmitts the
video data, the control data and the supply
voltage for the camera.
In case the IEEE 1394 bus does not provide
supply voltage, the camera requires an additional
mains adapter.
Always connect the In socket directly resp.
indirectly (see Figure 5) with the computer (PC).
Figure 4: Rear View
Figure 5: Connecting the FireWire Cameras with the Computer (PC)
Caution!
• The terms „In“ and „DaisyChain“ specify the direction of the feed-
ing of the supply voltage: In expects a power supply by another
1394 device while DaisyChain supplies other 1394 devices (see
Figure 6)
• If you have connected the camera to your computer via a 4-pole
plug, your camera will not be supplied with voltage by this device.
In this case you will have to connect the socket „power supply“ to
an external power supply. Use for example the mains adapter
SV001 from PHYTEC.
8 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
1.6.2 Settings
All parameters of the camera are adjustable via the IEEE 1394 bus.
The camera is delivered with a sample application (requires Windows
2000/SP2, XP or higher and DirectX 8.1 or higher), that allows for the
acquisition of images and streams of images and the adjustment of the
basic parameters (see section 2.5)
It is, of course, possible to adjust the camera parameters independently
of this program. For this purpose, PHYTEC offers a WDM Stream
Class driver (see section 4) which allows the parameters to be set with
every image processing software compatible to DirectX 8 or higher.
Alternatively the PHYTEC-SDK (DirectX wrapper) can be used. It
allows for a very convenient access to all features of the
FireWire-CAMs without the programmer having to become
acquainted with the complexity of DirectX.The SDK includes
connections to several programming interfaces:
Delivery Contents
- .NET components: for MS Visual Basic .NET and C# .NET
- ActiveX Control: for Microsoft Visual Basic 6
- C++ Class Libary: Microsoft Visual C++ 6 and Visual C++ .NET
For each of these interfaces the SDK provides all binaries, headers and
libraries needed, a detailed help as well as sample projects and demo
programs with source codes.
You will find an overview dealing with the programming in section
REF _Ref101320163 \n \h 4. The complete specifications for the
features you will find in the help files dealing with the respective
programming e nvironments on t he „Vision-Tools“-CD, SO-221.
An outline of standardised dialogues is available in section 2.5.3,
details on these parameters you will find in section 3.4.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 9
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
10 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
2 First Steps
This chapter explains how to connect the FireWire camera to your
computer and how to install the software needed for the first image
acquisitions.The individual sections discuss the proceedure for
different hardware constellations.
Please check which hardware version you are using and read on in the
corresponding section:
Section 2.1: Hardware Installation on a Standard PC
Section 2.2: Laptop Installation
Section 2.3 describes the installation of the software for all hardware
variants.
First Steps
2.1 Hardware Insta llation on a Standar d PC
2.1.1 The FireWire connection
Check first if your computer is already equipped with a FireWire
interface.
You will usual ly find a 6-pole FireWire socket on your PC (Figure 6).
Figure 6: A 6-Pin FireWire Socket
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 11
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
You will be able to identify this socket by the FireWire logo
(Figure 7):
Figure 7: FireWire and i.LINK lLgos
Note:
The FireWire interface sometimes is also called i.LINK or
IEEE-1394.
All signals and the supply voltage necessary for operating the camera
are usually available on this socket.
Therefore only one single cable is necessary for the camera.
This cable has to feature a 6-pin plug on each end (Figure 8):
Figure 8: FireWire Connecting Cable 6-Pole/6-Pole Type
12 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Depending on the desired length of the cable, you can use one of these
FireWire cables for the connection:
• FireWire connection cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 1.8 m
Order number WK 096-1.8
• FireWire connection cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 3.0 m
Order number WK 096-3.0
• FireWire connection cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 4.5 m
Order number WK 096-4.5
Hints:
• In case your PC should not have a FireWire interface, you would
first have to install a FireWire interface card to be able to use the
camera. Refer to section 2. 1.2.
• In case your PC should have a smaller 4-pin FireWire socket,
please proceed as explained in section 2.2, “Laptop Installation ”.
If your computer features both types of sockets, we recommend the
connection on the 6-pi n soc ket.
First Steps
• Please note that the full data rate is specified only for a cable
length of up to 4.5 m. The use of long er cables is possible but the
data rate will be reduced according to the bus specification. This
means that you possibly will not be able to use the full image
resolution or framerate.
The FireWire interface is „hot-plug“-capable. This means that you can
connect and disconnect the camera without having to shut down your
computer. Please mind however to close all programs that access the
camera to avoid data loss.
To put the camera into operation, simply plug one end of the FireWire
cable into the socket „In“ on the back of the camera and the other end
into the 6-pin FireWire socket of your c omputer.
Further connections are not required.
Caution!
You will have to install the respective driver software on your PC
prior to the initial operation. Without the installation of the driver, the
camera will not function at all or m erely in a limited way .
Please read section 2.3 how to in s tall the driver.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 13
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
2.1.2 Installation of a FireWire Interface Card (PC)
This step is necessary if your computer is not yet equipped with a
FireWire interface.
In this case you require an additional PCI card with FireWire
interfaces. Below we describe the installation of the PHYTEC
FireWire card, ordering number PC-109.
Depending on the option of order, this card may already be included
as part of your kit’s delivery contents.
Caution!
For this step the computer has to be disconnected from the mains
voltage supply. It is important that you are absolutely certain that the
device is not receiving voltage from any source.
Be aware that if this is not the case, parts of the device can carry
voltages at levels that could cause electrocution.
Remove the case of the PC (usually screwed).Choose a free PCI slot
(usually the whi te, short parallel slo ts on the motherboard).
• Remove the PC housing (usually screwed).
• Choose a free PCI slot (usually the white, short parallel slots on the
motherboard)
• Remove the slot bracket from the PC case (unscrew or break it off
if neccesary).
• Carefully insert the FireWire interface card PC-109 in to the slot (as
depicted in Figure 9) with the slot bracket towards the outside. The
card should lock firmly.
• Do not push the card into the slot with force, motherboard or card
could be damaged!
• Mind that the card's golden contact stripes match the contact
springs of the slot.
14 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
First Steps
Figure 9: Insertion of the Card into the PCI Slot
• Make sure that the card is straight and that no neighboring contacts
have been shor t circuited.
Attention!
Fix the card with a screw to the case for reasons of stability and to
ensure that the card has a safe bonding to the computer case (see
Figure 9)
• Close the computer’s housing.
• Reconnect the mains supply.
• Do not yet connect the camera with the FireWire socket of the
interface card.
• Now start the computer. Windows XP / Windows 2000
automatically identifies the newly installed interface card. Since
the software drivers are already included in the operating system,
you usually will not need an installation CD.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 15
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
2.2 Laptop Installation
2.2.1 The FireWire Connection
Check first if your computer is already equipped with a FireWire
interface.
A laptop usually is provided with a 4-pin FireWire socket (Figure 10).
Figure 10: 4-Pole FireWire Socket
You will also recognise this socket by the FireWire logo (Figure 11):
Figure 11: FireWire and i.LINK Logos
16 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Note:
The FireWire interface sometimes is also called i.LINK or
IEEE-1394.
The 4-pole socket – other than the 6-pole socket – transmitts data
signals but no supply voltage for the camera. Therefore a seperate
power supply is required to pr ovide the camera with electricity.
This cable has to feature a 6-pole plug on one end and a 4-pin plug on
the other (Figure 12):
First Steps
Figure 12: FireWire Connecting Cable 6-Pin/4-Pin Type
Depending on the desired length of the cable, you can use one of these
FireWire cables for the connection:
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/4-pin-type), 1.8 m
Order Number WK 097-1.8
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/4-pin-type), 3.0 m
Order Number WK 097-3.0
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/4-pin-type), 4.5 m
Order Number WK 097-4.5
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 17
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Hints:
In case your PC should not have a FireWire interface, you would first
have to install a FireWire interface card to be able to use the camera.
Most laptops offer the possibility to insert an additional card in form
of a “PC-card” (resp. „PCMCIA“ card). Please read section 2.2.2 on
this.
If your laptop is equipped with a 6-pole FireWire socket, proceed as
described in section 2. 1, “Hardware Installation on a Standard PC”.
Check the manual if your laptop supplies voltage via this socket.
Otherwise an additional mains adapter for the camera is re quired.
• Please note that the full data rate is specified only for a cable
length of up to 4.5 m. The use of long er cables is possible but the
data rate will be reduced according to the bus specification. This
means that you possibly will not be able to use the full image
resolution or frame rate.
The FireWire interface is „hot-plug“-compatible. This means that you
can connect and disconnect the camera without having to shut your
computer down. Please mind however to close all programs that
access the camera to avoid data loss.
To connect the camera, please proceed as follows:
• First supply the camera with power. For this you can use a
stabilised quality mains adapter of your choice in case it provides 8
to 40 VDC (direct current) and 500 mA. We recommend the use of
the PHYTEC mains adapter SV001. Depending on the option of
order, this adapter may already be included in your kit contents.
• Check the voltage setting of the adapter and select the appropriate
low voltage connector (5.5 mm outer diameter). When connecting
be sure that the polarity is correct! (minus outside, plus inside).
Connect the adapter to the right socket on the back of the camera
(In Figure 13, labelled „Power Supply Input“).
18 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Figure 13: Camera Connectors
• You can now establis h the FireWire connection. To do this insert
the cables 6-pin plug into the „In“ socket on the back of the camera
and the 4-pin plug into the FireW ire socket on your computer.
First Steps
Caution!
Before initial start up you will first need to install the corresponding
software on your PC. Without the driver the camera will function in a
limited capacity or not at all. Refer to sectio n 2.3 for installation of the
driver.
2.2.2 Installation of a FireWire Interface Card (Laptop)
This step is only required if your laptop is not equipped with a
FireWire interface.
In this case you will require an interface card for FireWire. In the
following paragraphs we describe the installation of the PHYTEC
FireWire Card, Order Nr. PC-110.
Depending on the order option you have, this card may already be
included as part of your kit contents.
The card PC-110 is an add-on card for the PC-Card receptacle socket
(also identified as „Cardbus“). Your laptop must be equipped with a
socket of this type.
Please note the additional system requirements listed in the card
manual.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 19
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
The interface card is „hot-plug“ capable. You can therefore insert it
into the cardbus receptacle socket of your laptop while it is turned on.
With Windows 2000/Windows XP the card is automatically
recognized and installed.
In general no installation CD is required, since the software drivers are
already present in the operating system.
The FireWire card is equipped with 6-pin FireWire sockets.
Depending on the desired cable lengt h, one of the following FireWire
cables can be used t o establish a connection:
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin Type), 1.8 m Order Nr.
WK096-1.8
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin type), 3.0 m
Order Nr. WK096-3.0
• FireWire Connector Cable (6-pin/6-pin Type), 4.5 m
Order Nr. WK096-4.5
Caution!
Although the interface card has 6-pin sockets, the laptop will
generally not provide a power supply for the camera. Therefore you
will have to use an e xt ernal power adapter for the camera.
To connect the camera proceed as described below:
• First connect the camera’s power supply. You can use a high-
quality stabilized adapter of your choice, as long as it delivers 8 to
40 VDC (Direct Current) and 500 mA. We recommend that you
use the PHYTEC adapter SV001. Depending on the kit option you
have, this adapter may already be included on delivery.
Check the voltage settin gs of the ad apter and select the appropri ate
low voltage plug (5.5 mm outer diameter). When connecting be
sure that the polarity is correct (minus outside, plus inside).
Plug the adapter into the right socket on the back of the camera
(labelled „ P ower Supply“ in Figure 14).
20 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Figure 14: Camera Connectors
• You can now establish the FireWire connection. Insert one end of
the FireWire cable in the socket „In“ on the back of the camera and
the other side in the 6-pin FireWire socket on the interface card.
First Steps
Caution!
Upon initial start up you have to install the corresponding driver
software on the PC. Without installing the driver, the camera will
function in a limited capacity or not at all. Refer to section 2.3 for
driver installation.
2.3 Installation of the Driver Software
The appropriate software device driver has to be installed so that the
camera can be addressed by the application software.
This device can be found on the CD that is included with the camera.
You can also download driver software updates from the PHYTEC
website.
Caution!
Check first to see if your computer meets the following system
requirements for opera ting the camera:
• Pentium II, 300 MHz or higher and 1394-interface
• Graphic card with 24 or 32-bit color depth
• Windows 2000/SP2 or Windows X P
• DirectX 8.1 or higher
Make sure that your computer is equipped with this software.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 21
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
To install the driver software for the FireWire camera, proceed in the
following manner:
Caution!
The DirectX driver must be installed prior to installation of the driver
software for the FireWire camera. Otherwise not all driver functions
will be supported and/or the system may crash.
• Connect the camera to your computer. To install the driver the
camera must be ready for operation. Follow the instructions in the
previous secti ons for this.
• Insert the CD SO-221 in your computer’s CD-ROM drive.
• The CD should start automatically, bringing up the title menu
shown in Figure 15.
If the CD doesn’t start automatically: open the content folder of
the CD (from your desktop or using Windows Explorer) and
double clic k on SO-221.exe.
Figure 15: Title Menu of the „Vision Tools“ - CD
22 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• Click on FireWir-CAM. You will be taken to the installation menu
for the PHYTEC FireWire Camera. Select „FCAM-001/-002”
(Figure 16) and click on Install Driver.
First Steps
Figure 16: Installation Menu for the FireWire Camera
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 23
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
• The installation program of the FireWire Camera’s software driver
(DCAM-Driver) will appear, Figure 17.
Figure 17: Driver Installation, Step 1
• Select the camera model that is connected to the FireWire
interface. (This model should already be selected.)
If no selection appears, check to see if the camera is connected
correctly and ready for operation. This is required before the driver
can be installed. Click on „Next“.
• The driver is now installed (Figure 18)
In some cases a software compatibililty warning will appear
(Figure 18). Click on „Continue Installation“.
24 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
First Steps
Figure 18: Driver Installation, Step 2
Figure 19: Driver Installation, Compatibility Warning
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 25
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
• At the end of the installation you will receive a message
(Figure 20). Click on „Finish“.
Figure 20: Driver Installation, Step 3
• Now remove the FireWire cable from the camera and wait a
moment, then reconnect the cable.
• The driver insta llation is now complete.
Hint:
• If you would like to run multiple cameras of different types
(PHYTEC FireWire CAM-001 and -002) on the same computer,
you have to perform the installation procedure for both cameras.
• After the installation procedure has been performed on a computer,
you can connect and disconnect the camera as often as you like.
The FireWire interface automatically activates the driver.
• The driver installation procedure has to be carried out for each
individual camera connec ted to the computer.
In the next two sections, you will be shown how to mount a lens on
your camera and then how to display your first live picture on your
screen.
26 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
2.4 Mounting a Lens
At first glance mounting a lens seems simple. However, when dealing
with high-quality digital cameras, the selection of an appropriate lens
and its correct mounting can play a decisive role in the image quality.
There are a few recommendations for selecting an appropriate lens in
section 3.2. The following paragraphs provide instructions on the
connection of a lens. The FireWire-CAM-001/002 is compatible with
C- and CS-Mount lenses.
The difference between these two lens types is marginal: If you want
to connect a C-Mount lens, you need to attach a CS/C-adaptor-ring
between the lens and the camera. With CS-Mount lenses, this ring
cannot be used.
First Steps
Figure 21: Lens Assembly (C-Mount)
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 27
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
The C/CS-Mount ring influences the so-called „flange focal distance“.
This is the distance between the back of the lens and (the part that is
attached to the camera) and the picture plane– in our case the surface
of the CCD sensor. The pictures shown in Figure 21 illustrate the
difference.
Figure 22: Flange Back Distances and Mountig of C-Mount (Top) / CS-Mount
(Bottom) Lenses
In reality the mechanics of the lens and the cameras can vary slightly
from one model to another, which may also influence the flange focal
distance. If, for example, you are not able t o set your lens to „infinite
focus“, this is a typical sign of an incorrect flange focal distance.
28 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
In this case you can solve the problem with the help of the camera’s
flange focal distance setting ring. As shown in Figure 21, this ring is
attached with two set-screws.
You can access these screws through two holes on the side and the
bottom of the camera housing. After you have loosen the set-screws,
you can adjust the camera’s flange focal distance setting ring
according to your requirements.
Hints:
• Adjustment of the flange focal distance is usually only required if
you are having problems with focusing in „infinite“ or with objects
close to the lens. Since adjusting the flange focal distance can
quickly lead to problems with the imaging system, it should only
be done if absolutely necessary!
First Steps
• If the picture is out of focus in all of the lens ranges, please check
to see if you have a C-Mount lens (use adapter ring) or a CSMount lens (remove adapter ring).
• It is possible that the lens is not suited for the desired object
distance. In this case you will be able to focus on remote objects,
but not on close objects. The required minimum distance between
the object and the lens is called the minimum object distance
(M.O.D.) and is provided in the lens data. PHYTEC support will
be happy to advise you on the selection of an alternative lens or on
the implem e ntation of extension rings, which re duce the M.O.D.
Caution!
Some lenses have very high insertion depth. In these cases the above
portioned parts of the lens can d a mage th e CCD an d/ or th e filt er of th e
same (FireWire-CAM-002). Please note that when you are using this
type of lens your warranty is made void.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 29
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
2.5 Starting Up the C amera with the Demo Program
2.5.1 The First Live Image
After you have established the necessary connections, installed the
driver software and mounted a lens following the instructions in the
previous sections, you can now start up the camera and display a live
image on the screen.
For the first test, the included CD SO-221 includes the program
amcap.exe from Microsoft™. You can find this program in the
subfolder FireWireCAM001_002\Demo\Amcap.
The program does not need to be installed. You can start it simply by
double-clicking on the program symbol amcap.exe.
• The application will appear (Figure 23). In the status line at the
lower window edge the camera identification „FCAM-001“ or
„FCAM-002“ will appear.
If you have installed multiple image sources on your computer,
you may have to select the proper image source first. To do this go
to the „Devices“ menu and select „FCAM-001“ or „FCAM-002”
(Figure 24).
• Now select the „Preview“ option from the „Capture“ menu. To
display the image the option must be checked (Figure 25).
• The Live image will now appear in the program window.
30 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
First Steps
Figure 23: The Program „AMCap“
Figure 24: AMCap – Select Device
Figure 25: AMCap – Activate Preview Function
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 31
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
2.5.2 Problem Solving
Check the following points if the live picture is poor or doesn’t
appear:
• No „Video Device“ is recognized
- Is the camera connected to the computer correctly?
- Is the camera connected to a power supply? (use adapter if
necessary)
- Is the software driver installed?
- Is DirectX, Version 8.1 or higher installed?
• The picture is black
- Is the iris of the lens open ?
• The picture is only black and white (gray levels)
- Do you have the color version FCAM-002?
- Is the software driver installed?
- Is the correct camera model selected?
- Was a color format selected with the settings?
- Is your graphics card configured for more than 256 colors?
- Is DirectX, Version 8.1 or higher installed?
• The picture quality is poor
- Is the iris of the lens opened sufficiently?
- Is the illumination sufficient?
- Is your graphic card configured for more than 256 colors?
- Try to adapt the camera parameters or set them to their „default“
values (see next section)
• The image is not focussed/cannot be focussed
- Check the lens setting
- Has the minimum object distance (M.O.D.) been met?
- Does the extension ring need to be removed/mounted?
- If necessary adjust the flange focal length (Caution!).
32 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• The image display is too slow / flicker s
- You can set the display speed (see next section)
- It is possible that your computer’s processor performance
is too low
• The picture flickers under artificial lighting
- Adjust the picture frequency to the frequency of the artificial
lighting. The maximum camera frequency is 30 Hz, which
results in interference with the 50 Hz mains frequency in Europe.
Use the setting „Frame Rate Reduction“ in the dialog „Advanced
Settings“ (see next section).
2.5.3 Adjusting Camera Settings
The FireWire-CAM-001 and -002 offer a large number of setting
options, which can be adjusted via software from the computer.
The setting options are grouped in multiple dialogs (menus).
Depending on the application the call of the dialogs can occur at
various locations.
This section provides a brief overview of the setting options and the
call of the dialogs in the program AMCap. A complete description of
the functions can be found in section 3.4
First Steps
• Setting the Video Format
Setting in AMCap:
Options4Video Capture Pin...
Here you can make basic settings for the image format and color
depth. The highest picture quality can be achieved by setting the color
depth to RGB24 (for FCAM-002) or Y800 (for FCAM-001).
In addition to this you can mirror the picture horizontally and/or
vertically, set the picture size and the picture refresh rate (these
settings are not effective in all applications).
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 33
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Figure 26: Camera Setting „Stream Format“
Hint:
The maximum display rate in the program AMCap is independent of
the setting „Frame Rate“ in the menu „Capture“
(Capture4Set Frame Rate...4Fr ame R at e). Set this setting to a hi gher value
(e.g. 30) if the picture refresh rate appears to be too low.
• Changing the Capture Settings
Setting in AMCap:
Options4Video Capture Filter...4Video Control
This dialog enables you to adjust the image capture precisely to your
image capture specifications.
In the camera’s default setting all parameters are regulated
automatically. In order to make the settings manually remove the
„Auto“ check from behind the desired parameter (ã
Å o) and set the
desired value with the sliding control.
Please note that depending on the camera model not all setting op tions
can be selected.
34 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Hint FireWire-CAM-001:
Activate the gamma correc tion to achieve a more balanced image:
Gamma
ã
First Steps
Figure 27: Camera Setting „Video Control“
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 35
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
• Configuring the automatic exposure
Setting in AMCap:
Options4Video Capture Filter...4Auto Exposure
In this dialog you can set the reference value for the auto exposure.
This allows the general lighting impression to be adjusted to the
application.
With Backlight Correction the auto exposure can also be adapted
to unfavorable lighting conditions. This is particularly
advantageous if an object is sitting before a light background and is
therefore underlit. By selecting an appropriate mask the measuring
range of the auto exposure can be adjusted so that the background
brightness is ignore d.
Figure 28: Camera Setting „Auto Exposure“
36 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• Advanced Settings
Call in AMCap:
First Steps
Options4Video Capture Filter...4Advanced Settings
The Advanced Settings dialog allows access to a few special
parameters of the signal processor.
Here you can determine if and how the sensor’s defective pixels (socalled „dead“ pixels) should be handled, which may be visible in the
picture in rare cases.
You can also determine in whic h format the input of the exposure time
should occur (any modifications require a restart of the driver).
One important setting option is the Frame Rate Reduction. The
camera’s refresh rate (image capture frequency) is usually 30 Hz.
With an artificial light source, interference can result at this rate.
This occurs because light from lamps powered by mains frequency is
not constant, rather it pulses with the mains frequency. This is
particularly noticeable with fluorsecent lamps. Since in Europe the
network frequency is not a whole multiple of the 30 Hz – capture
frequency, zebra stripes or flickering can occur in the image.
In this case activate the function Frame Rate Reduction:
ã
Frame Rate Reduction
This will reduce the refresh rate to around 25 Hz, which is a reduction
to approximately 83.3 % of the original value. Thus the interference
can be avoided.
Hint:
• The occurance of interference at 30 Hz is not a defect. Standard
TV cameras in Europe always operate at the lower frequency of
25 Hz to avoid this interference.
• The exposure time is (usually) independent of the picture
frequency. Therefore the settings do not influenc e each other.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 37
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
38 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3 The Camera in Detail
3.1 Camera Connections
Power Supply
If the IEEE 1394 Bus does not deliver the
operating voltage (this also applies for nearly
all laptop solutions) then the camera requires an
additional power adapter such as th e PHYTEC
SV001. Alternatively you can use a stable,
high-quality adapter of your choice, as long as
it delivers 8 to 40 VDC and 500 mA. Please
read the section 1.4, “Important Notes”.
The Camera in Detail
Figure 29: Camera Connections
Caution!
The identifiers „In“ and „DaisyChain“ describe the supply direction of
the operating voltage: In expects a voltage supply from another 1394
device while DaisyChain supplies other 1394 devices. Despite these
identifiers the data flow is always bidirectional.
IEEE 1394 Interface
The camera is equipped with two IEEE 1 394-1995/1394a, 6-pin, 400
Mb/s connectors. PHYTEC offers a variety of suitable IEEE 1394
cables. As an alternative you can use other cables, as long is they meet
the IEEE 1394 standard. Please refer the section 1.4, “Important
Notes“ before proceeding.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 39
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
3.2 Connecting the Lens
The camera supports lenses with C-Mount or CS-Mount connectors.
Refer to section 2.4 for ins truc ti ons on c onn ecti ng th e len s.
Hints for Selecting the Lens
In order to take full advantage of the quality and the features of the
camera, it is important that you select a lens that is optimized to your
application. In the following section we have provided some helpful
hints on how to proceed in the select ion of a suita b le lens.
• Focal Length
With the focal length you determine the visible screen window, or
image portion captured by the camera.
The focal length depends on the size of the CCD chip, the distance
from the object and the focal length of the lens be ing used.
The screen window should be optimized so that the object being
captured is always fully visible on the screen, and also so that the
amount of unused screen space surrounding the object is
minimized. Otherwise the object woul d be dis pl ayed unn eces saril y
small and the camera’s resolution would not be fully utilized.
The FireWire-CAM-001/-002 are both equipped with a ¼“ –
CCD-sensor. The following formula can be used to calculate the
required focal length f from the desired frame width B and the
distance between the object and the lens (L) (all values in
millimeters):
f ⋅=
6.3
L
B
mm
Round the resulting value up to the next av ailable focal distance.
This will give you a slightl y bigger screen window than necessary
but it ensures that the entire object will be captured on the screen.
40 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
The image height H is calculated from the image width B based on
the following relationship:
The Camera in Detail
3
BH ⋅=
4
Please note that wide angle lenses will produce some edge
distortion, which can have a detrimental effect during image
capture or analysis. In this case try increasing the distance to the
object and se t a larger focal len gth.
Reference points for selecting focal length:
Focal Length Lens Type
< 8mm Wide Angle
8 ... 16 mm Normal Range
> 16 mm Telephoto Lens
A selection of standard lens focal lengths can be found in our
catalog and on our web site. Please ask us about other available
focal lengths.
• Resolution
How good will the pictu re resolution be for a given focal length?
This depends on the picture size (size of the screen window) and
the number of pixels the sensor has.
The FireWire-CAM-001 / -002 have a pixel count of 640 x
480 pixels ( height x width).
You can now begin to determine the spacial resolution by dividing
the picture width in mm by the number of horizontal pixels (640)
(corresponding vertically).
Example:
You have a screen window that is 100 mm x 75 mm.
The maximum resolution that can be achieved is
100 mm : 640 = 0.15625 mm horizontal or
75 mm : 480 = 0.15625 mm vertical
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 41
FireWire-CAM-001 / 002
The actual resolution that can be achieved is usually smaller, since
the quality of the lens and some technical characteristics of the
camera (e.g. the band width of the analog amplifier) also play a
role. With color cameras in single chip tecnology, you must also
consider that the pixels have color filters, which also reduce the
resolution (primarily the local resolution of the color information).
The actual resolution of a system (lens – camera) can be
determined automatically and is given in terms of so-called TV-
lines. This is the number of perpendicular black/white lines per
screen window that can be differentiated.
• Minimum Object Distance
The minimum object distance (M.O.D.) determines the minimum
distance between the object an d the lens at which the picture can
be rendered in focus.
The M.O.D. value is given in the lens data.
An input M.O.D. =0.3m means that the object has to be at least
30 cm from the lens.
Often the camera has to be brought closer to the object than the
M.O.D. will allow for technical reasons. In this case you can use
an extension ring. The extension ring is inserted between the
camera and the lens and reduces the M.O.D. value. Since it is
difficult to calculate the required length of the extension ring,
Extension ring sets are available (PHYTEC Order Number
AZ005), that can be used to achieve the required value in
application.
• Aperture
A lens with a manually adjustable aperture (iris) offers two
advantages:
1. The depth of field can be adjusted. By closing the aperture the
distance range in which objects are shown in focus is increased.
This is of particular importance if the object distance is very
small. However the amount of light allowed through by the lens is
reduced which means that exposure times will increase and/or the
picture will be noisy.
42 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
2. The amount of light allowed through the lens can be controlled.
This makes sense primarily in applications where there is a lot of
light, which co uld result in overexposure or blooming.
In some cases a fixed exposure time may be desired for an
application. In this case you can enter the exposure time manually
(in the camera dialog) and set the aperture so that the image is
properly lit.
In normal cases the aperture should only be closed as much as
necessary to preve nt noise in the picture.
In industrial appl ications it usuall y makes sense to be abl e to lock the
selected aperture setting. For this purpose some lenses are equipped
with fixing screws.
3.3 Mechanical Attachment
The Camera in Detail
The camera is equipped with a mounting plate with three threaded
screw holes (Figure 30). The middle hole has a ¼“ – photo thread.
This enables the camera to be attached to all standard tripods.
The two outer holes have a metric M6 threads. They can be used to
attach the camera to a device or in a system without requiring special
screws.
Please note that the maximum screw depth is 8 mm.
Figure 30: Mounting Plate
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 43
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
The mounting plate is attached to the camera with four screws
(Figure 31). It can be connected to any side of the camera (Figure 32).
The attachment is therefore very flexible and can be easily adapted to
a given applicat ion.
Figure 31: Attachment of the Mounting Plate
Figure 32: Mounting Options of the FireWire-CAM
44 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.4 Camera Settings
The settings described in the following section influence the various
function blocks of the camera. The camera is depicted schematically
in Figure 32.
The Camera in Detail
CCD
A
VSP
D
Test
Pattern
CTR
INF
Figure 33: Block Diagram of the FireWire-CAM-001/002
The processing chain begins with the light that is reflected from the
object. This light shines through the lens and hits the CCD.
The analog picture signal is sent to an A/D converter. The converter
gives the „raw“ digital representation of the picture formed by the
reflected light rays.
This picture now has to be prepared by a video signal processor
(VSP).
A control unit (CTR) establishes communication between the
processing units and the IEEE 1394 Bus int erface and also makes the
parameter settings described in the following sections.
IEEE 1394 Bus
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 45
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
3.4.1 Camera Settings: Standards
One of the most interesting properties of the FireWire-CAM-001/002
is that they are based on standards that are widely circulated. One of
these standards is called DCAM. It describes the parameters and the
data structures of IEEE 1394 cameras that do not feature audio
processing and transmit the picture data uncompromised. Additional
information on DCAM can be found in section 4, “The Software
Concept”.
Hint:
Please note that the FireWire-CAM-001/002 offer setting options in
addition to these DCAM parameters, which can be very useful in
certain applications, but are not (yet) included in the DCAM
specification. In the following sections the DCAM-conformant
parameters are marked.
3.4.2 Camera Settings in Detail
All camera parameters can be set over the IEEE 1394 Bus. In order to
access these, install the camera and the included software as described
in the section 2, „First Steps“.
In the following section the individual setting options and their effects
are described in detail.
3.4.2.1 Camera Settings – Data Stream Format
The dialog Data Stream Format (Figure 26) o ffers yo u t he sel ection
between the various resolutions and frame rates, therefore defining the
basic structure of the video signal.
You will achieve the highest picture quality if you use RBG24 (for
FireWire-CAM-002) and Y800 (for FireWire-CAM-001) for the color
space and select 640 x 480 as the output size.
However, these operating modes also require the highest bandwidth.
All parameters are DCAM-conformant.
For addtional information refer to section 3.6, “How to Maximize
Image Quality”.
46 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.4.2.2 Camera Settings – Video Control
The dialog Video Control gives you access to all basic parameters
that can be used to set the function blocks of the camera described in
the introduct ion.
For additional information refer to section 3.6,” How to Maximize
Image Quality”.
Shutter (DCAM): sets the exposure time.
This parameter can be set manually or automatically (along with the
amplification Gain; see below).
Technically this parameter is based on an internal feedback loop. This
loop takes 4048 gray level samples from the picture and calculates a
average brightness level from them.
The image range that the samples are taken from determines the
current setting of the backlight correction. This parameter can be set
over the dialog Auto Exposure (see secti on 3.4.2.3).
The Camera in Detail
Gain and shutter influece the picture in a similar manner. A reduction
in the gain can be compensated by an increase in the shutter and vice
versa. There are therefore many combinations of gain and shutter that
will result in an identical picture.
The gain, however, is the electrical amplification of the image signal,
while the shutter influences the exposure time.
A higher gain value will result in a noisy image. For this reason the
gain should no t be set unnecessar ily high.
On the other hand, longer exposure times may result in motion blur
and other picture distortions.
Typically speaking, a balance between the two settings is preferable.
If satisfactory image quality cannot be achieved, a brighter light
source may be required.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 47
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Gain/Contrast (DCAM): The amplification gain (also called contrast)
influences the electrical output signal of the CCD. This is an electrical
amplification of the image signal. More details are provided in the
shutter description above.
Offset/Brightness (DCAM): The offset (also called brightness)
influences the direct voltage offset of the CCD output signal directly.
Visually this is perceived to be an adjustment of the picture
brightness. As opposed to the contrast setting, the brightness setting
does not change the relationship of dark to light.
This parameter can be set manually or automatically.
Sharpness (DCAM): The sharpness setting changes the sharpness of
the video picture.
This mechanism can be used to compensate for lowpass effects (that
may result from spacial colo r interpolation) ( see section 3.5). You can
shut off this function if it is not required.
Gamma (DCAM): If gamma correction is switched on the camera
will output the gray levels adapted to the non-linear characterstics of
picture tube base d monitors.
With activated gamma correction the image looks richer in contrast –
expecially with monochrome cameras.
Saturation (DCAM, only with FireWire-CAM-002): This parameter
allows the manual setting of color saturation from black and white to
extremely saturated colors. This allows the picture display to be
adapted to color sensit i vity or the picture environment.
You can shut off this function if it is not required.
White Balance (DCAM, only with FireWire-CAM-002): U/R
(red/green) and V/B (green/blue) influence the red and blue portions
of the picture. You can therefore set the camera to the applied light to
achieve a color-neutral impression. In most cases the automatic white
balance is the preferable setting. For color evaluation tasks, the
automatic white balance must be shut off.
48 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
In manual operation both parameters can be linked to quickly find an
initial setting. Depending on the lighting, some fine tuning may be
required. To do thi s the parameter link must be broken.
Test Pattern: The test pattern can be used to trace the cause of
problems back to the lighting, optics and the CCD or the signal
processor.
The test pattern shows changes to the parameters Saturation, White
Balance, Sharpness and Gamma. It is not effected by Shutter, Gain or
Backlight Correction.
The Camera in Detail
Figure 34: Test Pattern
Flip Horizontal/Vertical: With these options the picture can be
flipped horizontally and vertically. This function is useful if the
camera and image orientation are different or if mirrors have to be
used for taking a picture.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 49
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
3.4.2.3 Camera Settings – Auto Expo sure
The Dialog Auto Exposure gives you access to parameters that
determine the behavior of the control loop in the Shutter/Gain
automatic m ode.
You are therefore able to adjust the behavior of the automatic
exposure contr ol and adapt it to your application’s requirements.
For further in format ion refer to section 3.6,” How to Maximize Image
Quality”.
Exposure Reference (DCAM): The automatic Shutter/Gain mode is
based on a control loop, which takes 4048 grayscale samples from the
picture and calculates an average brightness from them. This average
value is then compared to the exposure reference and if the Shutter or
Gain do not match then it is modif ied. The image area that the samples
are taken from is determined by the current setting of the Backlight
Correction.
With this value you can set the average brightness level (reference
brightness) value of the image in automatic mode.
Backlight Correction: In automatic Shutter/Gain mode 4048
grayscale samples are taken from the image and are used to calculate a
average brightness level. The configuration of the backlight correction
determines the location of the samples. The average brightness value
is then used to adapt the auto exposure to special lighting situations.
This is primarily necessary for very bright or very dark picture areas,
such as with backlit objects or with very bright objects set before a
dark background.
50 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.4.2.4 Camera Settings – Advan ced Settings
The Dialog Advanced Settings allows access to a few special
parameters of the signal processor.
For additional information refer to section 3.6, “How to Maximize
Image Quality”.
Dead Pixel Compensation: Even now CCDs are not completely free
from irregularities which in some cases may be visible as „dead
pixels“. These pixels will appear to be stuck at black or white. The
dead pixel compensation offers two mechanisms for eliminating such
abnormalities in individual pixels:
The median filter compares the gray level of the current pixel with
the values of the neighboring pixels to the right and left and replaces
this gray level with a median value of all three.
The filter for non-linear interpolation also compares the current
pixel with its neighboring pixels. If the gray level of the current pixel
varies from its neighboring pixels by a value greater than that given in
the field max graylevel deviation then it will be replaced by the
average level of the neighbor i ng pixe ls.
The Camera in Detail
If you compare the results of both methods, the median filter is more
effective in eliminating white pixels, but results in a greater reduction
of image clarity than non-linear interpolation.
Physical units: Display of the exposure time based on the definition
of DirectShow. Please note when switching this option on or off that
the change only takes effect after a restart. A restart can be achieved
by removing and then re-insert ing the 1394 cable.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 51
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Frame rate reduction: Reduces the current refresh rate to about
83.3 %. Thus a refresh rate of 30 frames/s would reduce to
25 frames/s. It is therefore possible to reduce the flicker of 50 Hzbased lighting.
Flickering is due to the fact that light from lamps that are connected to
a mains frequency is not constant, but instead pulses with the mains
frequency. This is particularly obvious with phosphorescent lamps.
Since in Europe the mains frequency is not a whole number multiple
of the 30 Hz – frame rate, the result can be zebra striping or brightness
irregularites (flickering) in the image.
Note:
• The occurance of interference at 30 Hz is normal. Standard TV
cameras in Europe always operate with the lower pi cture frequen cy
of 25 Hz to avoid thi s type of interference.
• The exposure time is (generally) independent of the picture
requency. The settings therefore do not influence eachother.
3.5 Spectral Behavior
3.5.1 FireWire-CAM-001 (monochromatic)
Figure 35 shows the spectral behavior of the monochromatic
FireWire-CAM-001.
Please note that this camera is not equipped with an IR-band
elimination filter. Therefore you can use the IR-sensitivity of these
cameras in various applications.
In some applications it is a good idea to block certain ranges of wave
length. You can do this by attaching a special filter to the lens. We
will be happy to advise you in the selection of an appropriate f ilter.
52 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Figure 35: Spectral Response (FireWire_CAM-001)
3.5.2 FireWire-CAM-002 (Color)
Simply put, the CCD-Chip converts photons to electrons. Three color
filters (red, green, and blue) are used for color display. With these
three color levels it is possible to create the picture colors. With
single-chip cameras (like the FireWire-CAM-002) very small filter
elements of the three colors are placed alternatingly in front of the
individual pixels of the CCD chip (called Mosaic or Bayer filters).
Figure 36 demonstrates the function of this filter.
The Camera in Detail
The small picture below shows a red field and a blue field with a
green border. This picture was taken without the usual preparation (we
will go into more detail about this later). That is why it appears a bit
„raw“.
The larger picture is an enlarged section of the smaller picture. The
letters R (Red), G (Green) and B (Blue) show the structure of the color
filter, whlie the gray value represents the b rightness of the individual
pixels.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 53
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Figure 36: Bayer Pattern Filter (ColorSensor)
Figure 37 shows which spectral ranges actually represent the values
R, G and B. If, for example, a G-Pixel has a high brightness level, this
means that the light that hit this point was made up mostly of
wavelengths between approximately 500 and 600 nm.
54 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
The Camera in Detail
Figure 37: Spectral Filter Characteristics (FireWire-CAM-002)
Please note that with a G-pixel it is impossible to say anything about
the red or blue portion of the light. Wavelengths between 400 and
500 nm can only be measured with B-pixels. Wavelengths between
600 and 700 nm can only be measured with R-pixels.
The problem is therefore that a pixel can only measure one of the three
colors, while we require all three color values at each pixel position
for an RGB image.
The Bayer pattern model uses the „spatial color interpolation“ to
generate an RGB image from the neighboring color pixels.
Let’s assume that we have an R-pixel and we require the missing Gand B-values. The interpolation algorythm estimates these values
based on the neighboring pixels of the R-pixel. If it finds a
neighboring B-pixel with a high gray value and a G-pixel with a low
gray value, then it is quite probable that the R-pixel is probably pale
violet or lilac colored.
For each pixel we have one measured and two estimated color values.
As with all modern cameras this interpolation is carried out in the
FireWire-CAM-002 by a signal processor. It is described in the
introduction to section 3.4.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 55
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Figure 38: FireWire-CAM-002 Band Elimination Filter
56 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.6 How to Maximize Image Quality
„Image Quality“ is always a relative term. However, the definition of
quality really depends on the requirements of the application in
question.
3.6.1 Lens
The video lens has a signifi cant influ ence on the pictu re quality. Refe r
to section 3.6 for selection of an appropriate lens.
In any case you sh ould use a high quality lens.
PHYTEC offers high-quality lenses from Pentax.
If you have a special requirement profile we recommend lenses from
Schneider Kreuznach.
We will be happy to advise you on the selection of an appropriate
lens.
The Camera in Detail
3.6.2 Lighting
With image processing applications the selection of the right lighting
plays a major role.
Ideally the lighting will illuminate the object evenly and with high
contrast. Undesired structures (shadow, and overexposed areas)
should therefore occur as little as possible in the picture.
Correct lighting can drastically reduce processing times in many
applications. For industrial image processing a series of special
lighting techniques have been developed that can increase picture
display quali ty in various applications.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 57
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
In this section we briefly describe a few lighting procedures.
• reflected-light method
The reflected light method is one of the most commonly used lighting
methods.
In this method a light source (e.g. a standard lamp or a special ring
light, see Figure 39) is pointed at the object from above.
This lighting technique is used if structures need to be recog ni zab le on
the object, such as print, dirt , color (in this case a color-s table lig hting
is recommended) or mounted parts (attendance monitor or position
monitor). There are differ ent variations of this method.
Problems that may occur with this procedure are uneven lighting,
reflection (particularly on shiny surfaces) and shadows.
Figure 39: PHYTEC Ring Light Order No.: VZ-001-x, VZ-002-x
• Diffuse Lighting
With diffuse lighting no direct light rays hit the viewed object. This
reduces problems with reflec tions and overexposed areas.
The Ring Light (Figure 39) can generate diffuse lighting if a
corresponding filter ring is attached, thereby solving this problem.
For especially critical appliactions, such as highly reflective surfaces,
special shapes are available that shine the light on the object indirectly
over a dome shaped lighting bell.
58 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• Light-Field or Dark-Field Lightin g
These two methods differ from one another considerably in terms of
the camera position in relation to the object. The positon of the
lighting source in relation to the object remains the same.
The light field lighting leaves the ranges of interest dark (e.g. a drill
hole in a workpiece). The dark field lighting functions in the opposite
manner (Figure 40).
The type of lighting s hould be selected based on the object su rface. If
necessary tests should be performed with both variants to determine
which metho d displays the structures of interest the best.
The Camera in Detail
Figure 40: Light-Field- (Left) and Dark-Field-Lighting (Right)
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 59
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
• Shadow Projection
If object areas and their background are similar in terms of their gray
value, the object border can be difficult to discern (contrast problems).
If the background isn’t too dark, you can measure the object’s cast
shadow instead of the object edge (Figure 41).
Figure 41: The Shadow Projection
• Structured Light
In place of the homogenous light described up to this point it is al so
possible to use a special structu red light . This structured light makes it
possible to mesaure the height of an object with a light band or
crosshairs (e.g. from a laser). This is an expansion of the shadow
projection.
60 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
The light line (band) is projected at a known angle α toward the
object. The camera is positioned perpendicular to the object. The
picture therefore contains two parallel lines, that are a distance d from
one another. This distance can be easily measured by the image
The Camera in Detail
processing software and converted to height h using the angle
(Figure 42).
α
Figure 42: The Structured Light
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 61
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
• Silhouette Projection
This method is very useful if you are only interested in the out line of a
flat object (e.g. for measurem ent purposes).
It generates high contrast pictures and is not dependent on the surface
of the object.
With the silhouette projection the object is placed before a
luminescent plate. It is a diffuse lighting surface that lights the object
from below. The camera is pointed at the object from the front, i.e.
toward the light source (Figure 43).
The result is a grayscale image. The bright pixels are the background,
the dark pixels are the object.
Figure 43: The Silhoutte Projection
62 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
• Transmitted Light Method
The transmitted-light-method (transillumination) can be very useful
with transparent objects like glass. The transillumination makes the
inner structures visible (Figure 44).
It is possible, for example, to depict the steel wire inside a security
glass or the liquid level within a bottle. X-ray images in medical
technology are also an example of transillumination.
The Camera in Detail
Figure 44: Transillumination
3.6.3 Camera Setup
The FireWire-CAM offers a wide range of setting options that enable
it to be optim ally adapted to the picture requirements.
The individual parameters are listed in section 3.4,
„Camera Settings“.
In the following paragraphs the settings used for typical automation
and visualizat ion applicatio ns are described.
With visualization applications the focus of optimization is primarily
the picture as it is seen by the viewer (e.g. remote monitoring, security
applications). Automation usually requires constant environmental
conditions set according to the given task. The general visual
impression is therefore usually a secondary consideration. Instead it is
more important that the recognizable features for the subsequent
image processing are easily and reliably discernable.
Of course in practicle applications there may be instances where a
mixture of both requirement profiles is needed.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 63
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
3.6.3.1 Setting for Visualization with Stable Lighting
The typical camera for these purposes is the FireWire-CAM-002.
Under the assumption that there are stable lighting conditions we
recommend the following settings (see Windows dialogues in
section 2.5.3):
Shutter and Gain: Keep Gain as lo w as possible and Shutter as h igh
as possible, since Gain not only amplifies the picture signal but also
amplifies image noise.
High Shutter values (longer exposure times) can also lead to motion
blur. Determine through calculation or experimentation the highest
reasonable value and set the Gain accordingly, so that the picture
brightness is optimized. If necessary adjust the lens aperture to
improve the image.
Brightness: Keep the Brightness setting as low as possible. This
guarantees the highest gray value dynamic.
Sharpness: Adjust the sh arpness of the pi cture according to th e visual
impression that it makes. Be aware that too high of a Sharpness setting
will also show noise more clearly and may have an unnatural effect on
the image. Before adjusting the Sharpness setting, be sure that focus
and aperture (=depth of field) settings on the lens are optimized.
Gamma: If you are displaying the pictures on a tube monitor, Gamma
should be active. For most other cases Gamma should be shut off.
Select the setting according to the visual impression you desire.
Saturation: For a „realistic“ image, in most cases it is recommended
that the color saturation adjustment is deactivated. Otherwise a value
between 50 an d 80 will usually deliver the best results.
White Balance: Use the switch One Push White Balance to get a
base value. With some slight adjustments afterwards you should easily
be able to find the optimal setting.
In most cases the automatic white balance („Auto“) does an adequate
job.
64 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.6.3.2 Visualization Applications with Variable Lig hting
Shutter and Gain usually have to be operated automatically. In this
case the dialog Auto Exposure offers the following two parameters
that you can use to influence the behavior of the Shutter/Gain
regulation.
Exposure Reference: The presetting of this reference value for the
automatic lighting is 30. Do not change this value by more than 10.
Otherwise it could result in instabilities.
Backlight Correction: If this parameter is set to OFF, then the
automatic exposure control measures the brightness value of the entire
image. If the lighting conditions between the various image portions
are considerably different, then you can compensate for this effect
with another m e thod of measurement.
This enables you to limit the measuring range to the relevant picture
area.
The Camera in Detail
Brightness: Try to avoid using the automatic setting. It is better to
keep this value as low as possible. This guarantees the highest gray
value dynamic.
Sharpness: Adjust the sharpness to achieve the desired picture effect.
As described in the previous section, the proper lens and its correct
connection can a lso be decisive for picture sharpness.
Gamma: If you display the image on a tube monitor then Gamma
should be active. For most other cases Gamma should be shut off.
Select the setting that gives you the best image in your opinion.
Saturation: For a „realistic“ picture, the deactivation of the color
saturation setting is recommend.
Otherwise values between 50 and 80 should deliver the best results.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 65
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
White Balance: Variable lighting doesn’t only result in changes in
brightness but also results in spectral variation (changes in co lor tone).
Since the human eye is capable of adapting to these types of
variations, we rarely notice even relatively major color variations in
light in the course of a day. The camera can also adapt to color
variations with th e help of the Automatic White Balance.
If only the brightness values change (e.g. if an artificial light source is
obscured), then the White Balance can be set manually. By clicking
on the switch One Push White Balance you will establish a base
setting. If necessary you can make slight adjustments afterwards to
achieve the optimal setting.
66 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
3.6.3.3 Setting for Automated Applications
Automated applications usually require stable lighting and therefore
manual parameter settings (see dia lo g in secti on 2.5.3).
Shutter and Gain: Keep the Gain setting as low as possibl e and the
Shutter setting as high as possible, since Gain not only amplifies the
image signal but also the noise.
High Shutter values (longer exposure times) can result in motion blur.
Determine through calculation or ex perimentation the high est sen sible
value and then set the Gain to achive the optimal picture brightness.
If necessary adjust the lens aperture to improve the picture.
Brightness: Keep the brightness as low as po ssible. This guarantees
the highest gray value dynam ic.
The Camera in Detail
Sharpness: Adjust the image sharpness to the level you desire. In
automated applications you should try to set the sharpness to the
lowest possible value to avoid noise.
Before adjusting the sharpness setting, be sure that the focus and
aperture (sharpness depth) settings on the lens are optimized.
Since the sharpness function cannot compensate for a low quality lens,
you should be sure to use a lens that is suitable for your application.
Gamma: With some automated applications a linear brightness
characteristic may be desired. In this case the Gamma correction
should be deactivated.
Usually the Gamma correction shoul d be s et so t hat the pi cture output
is optimized for the applica tio n in que sti on.
Therefore with applications that involve object recognition it makes
sense to work with the Gamma correction switched on.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 67
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
68 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
4 The Software Concept
One of the most interesting properties of the PHYTEC FireWire-CAM
in terms of software is that it can run with standardized interfaces.
This makes the FireWire-CAM-001/002 compatible to the existing
Windows dri ver models.
4.1 Layers Standards of the FireWire-CAM Series
Hardware/Protocol
At the hardware layer the standard IEEE 1394 (FireWire) is used.
Since IEEE 1394 defines a data bus certain protocols are required that
establish the data exchange between the devices.
With DCAM (described in the specification DCAM V1.3) The
PHYTEC cameras use a protocol that defines the transmission of
uncompressed image data streams as well as the camera parameter
settings (e.g. exposure time).
The Software Concept
Driver
The protocol is realized on the processor end with the help of a WDM
Stream Class driver. WDM stands for „Windows Driver Model“. For
mice, keyboards, drives etc. this is standard for a long time. For
automated image processing, pr actical application with support of the
FireWire interface with Windows 2000 or better or DirectX 8 is
recommended.
Software Interface
Application software should ideally access the operating system
functions and not the hardware itself. Windows offers DirectX for
image and audio processing. Since the PHYTEC FireWire-CAM only
delivers image data streams, only the portion DirectShow is required.
DirectShow automatically recognizes the WDM Stream Class driver.
Therefore when using the FireWire-CAM no additional software is
required (excluding the actual application software).
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 69
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Consequence for the Application Software
a) If you want to use a ready-made application software, it must be
compatible with DirectX (nearly all multimedia products fulfill this
requirement).
b) If you plan on creating your own application software and already
have experience programming with DirectX, you can access the
PHYTEC FireWire-CAM WDM driver directly with DirectX. The
corresponding programming description is available in the
DirectX-SDK from Microsoft. The functions made available by the
PHYTEC FireWire-CAM are described in section 3.4, “Camera
Settings”.
c) If instead you are accustomed to programming frame grabbers
(such as the PHYTEC pciGrabber-4plus), then the enormous
complexity of DirectX is a hurdle that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Therefore PHYTEC offers a DirectX-Wrapper in the FireWire-
SDK which enables easy access to all of the FireWire-CAM’s
functions without requiring that the programmer become familiar
with the complexities of DirectX.
The SDK includes t he connections to variou s programming interfaces:
- NET Components: for MS Visual Basic .NET and C# .NET
- ActiveX Control: for Microsof t Visual Basic 6
- C++ Class Libary: Microsoft Visual C++ 6 and Visual C++ .NET
Note:
The FireWire-SDK is included with the camera package. Y ou will find
it on the „Vision Tools“-CD SO-221.
You can install it in the CD’s FireWire dialog (see Figure 16). For
each of these interfaces the SDK makes all required binaries, Headers
and Libraries available, including an extensive help menu as well as
example projects and demo programs with source code.
The DirectX-Wrapper reduces the complexity of DirectX and makes a
logically simple interface available to the programmer.
70 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
4.2 Accessing the Camera Driver
Section 4.1 describes the standard layer in terms of the PHYTEC
FireWire-CAM-001/002.
A progammer sees these cameras at the layer of a WDM Stream Class
driver. The communication between this type of driver and an
application software is defined by the standard called DirectX /
DirectShow.
There are three typical ways of accessing a WDM Stream Class
driver.
• Programmers who have experience using DirectX can acces these
drives directly using DirectX.
Programmers who are not experienced with DirectX can access the
driver with the help of the PHYTEC FireWire-SDKs. The SDK
allows easy access from standard Windows programming
environments. In terms of software the camera behaves similarly to
a standard camera-framegrabber unit.
The FireWire-SDK with the DirectX-Wrapper is included with the
PHYTEC FireWire-CAM-001/002. It can be found on the
CD SO-221 along with the detailed descripti ons of the functions.
The Software Concept
• If you would rather avoid programming entirely, you can use the
Filter Graph Editor to parameter WDM Steam Class drivers.
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 71
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
4.3 Working with the Filter Graph Editor
The following sections are a brief introduction to the Filter Graph
Editor.
With the Filter Graph Editor you can graphically program and test
(multimedia-) applications completely or partially.
The functions shown as „DirectShow Filters“ are available to you for
this purpose.
4.3.1 How to Get the Filter Graph Editor
The Filter Graph Editor (also called „graphedit“ or „graphedt.exe“ ) is
a component of Microsoft’s DDK, that can be downloaded for free
from www.microsoft.com/ddk/.
It is also part of Microsoft’s DirectX SDK, which is available at
www.msdn.microsoft.com/downloads/default.asp (once on that page
click on „Downloads by Topic“, „Graphics and Multimedia“,
„DirectX“ and „DirectX 9.0b SDK“).
Please note that Microsoft does not include the Filter Graph Editor
source code or permit redistribution.
4.3.2 Working with the Filter Graph Editor
The Filter Graph Editor is a limited tool. It consists only of the
executable program graphedt.exe and is therefore easy to locate in the
DDK/SDK-Kit. No special installation is required. graphedt.exe can
be started easily from any folder.
A detailed description of the Filter Graph Editor is available in
program’s he lp func tio n .
72 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
4.3.3 How the Camera Appears in the Filter Graph Editor
In the „Graph“ menu select „Insert Filters...“. You will be shown a list
of Filters, that are available in the operating system.
The camera’s WDM Stream Class driver is also considered a filter of
this type and is located in the folder „Video Capture Sources“.
The filter parameters (i.e. the camera settings) can be modified by
right-clicking on the name of the filter in question. In our case this is
either FCAM-001 or FCAM-002. By selecting „Filter Properties...“
you will be taken to the setti ng dial og show n i n sectio n 3.4.
Please note that the camera parameters are not stored in the camera
but rather in the registry of the computer that the camera is connected
to.
The Software Concept
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 73
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
74 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
5 Technical Data
Characteristic Data
320 x 240 YUV (4:2:2) – only AK061
640 x 480 YUV (4:1:1) – only AK061
Technical Data
Video-Format
Refresh Rate
Sensitivity
Gamma 0.41 / 1 selectable
Dynamic Range
S/N – Ratio ADC: 9-bit (25°C, Gain 0 dB)
640 x 480 YUV (4:2:2) – only AK061
640 x 480 RGB (24 Bit) – only AK061
640 x 480 monochromatic (Y, 8-bit)
3,75 / 7,5 / 15 / 30 frames/s
reduceable to 83,3 %:
3,12 / 6,25 / 12,5 / 25 frames/s
AK-060: 0,8 lx
AK-061: 4,0 lx
(Exposure time 1/30s, Gain 0 dB)
ADC: 10-bit
Output: 8-bit
Optical Data
Image Sensor
Type
Sensor-Format 1/4"
Resolution 640 x 480 (H x V)
Pixel Size
Lens Attachment C / CS – Mount
Electrical Interfaces
Power Supply 8 ... 40 V DC
Current Consumption 90 mA approx. (at 12 V)
Data Interface
Remote Control (Input) IEEE 1394a
Synchronization (Input) IEEE 1394a
Synchronization (Output) IEEE 1394a
Video (Output) IEEE 1394a
Connections:
Daisy-Chain: 6-pin IEEE 1394 - socket
Power: Coaxial Power Plug ∅ 5,5mm
AK060: Sony ICX 098BL
AK061: Sony ICX 098BQ
CCD Interline-Transfer
Progressive Scan
5,6µm x 5,6µm
IEEE 1394a
(FireWire / i.LINK)
Data: 6-pin IEEE 1394 - socket
(optional)
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 75
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
Mechanical Data
Dimensions 50,5 mm x 50,5 mm x 47 mm (HxWxD)
Housing Aluminum, black
Mounting plate with photo thread
1/4" x 8mm (max.) and M6 x 8mm
Dimensions:37,5 x 35 x 8 mm
Mountable on 4 sides (with M2 x 6)
Attachment
Weight approx. 165 g
Setting Options (manual, over IEEE 1394a – Bus)
Exposure Time 1/3300 ... 1/30 s
Gain 0 ... 36 dB
Offset 0 ... 511
Sharpness 0 ... 255
Gamma 0,45 / 1
Color Saturation (only AK061) 0 ... 100 %
White Balance (only AK061) 2600 ... 9000 °K
alternative direct mounting on
4 mounting holes M2
Spacing 23 x 30 mm (BxT)
Insertion depth max. 2 mm
none / circle / averaged circle / head and
Backlight Correction
Dead pixel - correction none / median / non-linear interpolation
Automatic Operation
Exposure Time (AEC) 1/3300 ... 1/30 s
Gain Control (AGC) 0 ... 36 dB
Offset 0 ... 511
White Balance (only AK061) 2600 ... 9000 °K
Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature -5 °C ... 45 °C
Storage Temperature -20 °C ... 60 °C
Max. Humidity 90% no condensation
We reserve the right to change these conditions
AK060 = FireWire-CAM-001 = FCAM-001= s/w-Model
AK061 = FireWire-CAM-002 = FCAM-002 = Color-Model
shoulders / upper third / lower third /
middle third
76 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
6 Dimensions
Dimensions
Figure 45: Dimensions
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661d_1 77
FireWire-CAM -0 01 / 002
78 PHYTEC Meßtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Document: FireWire-CAM-001 / 002
Document Number: L-661e_1, 1. Edition
How would you improve this manual?
Did you find any mistakes in this manual? page
Suggestions for Improvements
Submitted by:
Customer number:
Name:
Company:
Address:
Return to:
PHYTEC Technologie Holding AG
Postfach 100403
D-55135 Mainz, Germany
Fax : +49 (6131) 9221-33
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 L-661e_1
Published by
PHYTEC Messtechnik GmbH 2005 Ordering No. L-661e_1
Printed in Germany
Loading...