VN CXP series
Version
Date
Description
1.0
2015-02-12
Initial Release
1.1
2015-05-14
Corrected errors on the mechanical dimension
1.2
2016-04-22
Added typical power requirements
Revision History
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VN CXP series
Contents
1 Precautions ....................................................................................................................... 6
2 Warranty ............................................................................................................................ 7
3 Compliance & Certifications ............................................................................................ 7
3.1 FCC Compliance ................................................................................................................ 7
3.2 CE : DoC ............................................................................................................................ 7
3.3 KC ...................................................................................................................................... 7
4 Package Components ...................................................................................................... 8
5 Product Specifications ................................................................................................... 10
5.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................... 10
5.2 Specifications ................................................................................................................... 11
5.3 Camera Block Diagram .................................................................................................... 12
5.4 Sensor Information ........................................................................................................... 13
5.5 Mechanical Specification .................................................................................................. 14
6 Installation ....................................................................................................................... 15
6.1 Mount Plate ...................................................................................................................... 16
6.2 Precaution to Center the Imaging Sensor ........................................................................ 17
6.3 Precaution about Blurring Compared to Center ............................................................... 17
6.4 Installing Vieworks Imaging Solution ................................................................................ 17
7 Camera Interface ............................................................................................................. 18
7.1 General Description ......................................................................................................... 18
7.2 CoaXPress Connector ..................................................................................................... 19
7.2.1 CoaXPress DIN Connector (75 Ω 1.0/2.3 DIN Receptacle) ............................................................19
7.3 Power Input Receptacle ................................................................................................... 20
7.4 Control I/O Receptacle ..................................................................................................... 21
7.5 Trigger Input Circuit .......................................................................................................... 22
7.6 Strobe Output Circuit ........................................................................................................ 22
8 Acquisition Control ......................................................................................................... 23
8.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................... 23
8.2 Acquisition Start/Stop Commands and Acquisition Mode ................................................ 26
8.3 Exposure Start Trigger ..................................................................................................... 27
8.3.1 Trigger Mode ...................................................................................................................................27
8.3.2 Using a Software Trigger Signal ......................................................................................................29
8.3.3 Using a CoaXPress Trigger Signal ..................................................................................................30
8.3.4 Using an External Trigger Signal .....................................................................................................31
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8.4 Setting the Exposure Time ............................................................................................... 34
8.5 Overlapping Exposure with Sensor Readout ................................................................... 35
8.6 Electronic Shutter Operation ............................................................................................ 37
8.6.1 Global Shutter ..................................................................................................................................37
8.7 Maximum Allowed Frame Rate ........................................................................................ 38
8.7.1 Increasing the Maximum Allowed Frame Rate ................................................................................38
9 Camera Features ............................................................................................................. 39
9.1 Image Region of Interest .................................................................................................. 39
9.2 CXP Link Configuration .................................................................................................... 42
9.3 Pixel Format ..................................................................................................................... 43
9.4 Data ROI (Color Camera) ................................................................................................ 44
9.5 White Balance (Color Camera) ........................................................................................ 45
9.5.1 Balance White Auto .........................................................................................................................45
9.6 Gain and Black Level ....................................................................................................... 46
9.7 Defective Pixel Correction ................................................................................................ 47
9.7.1 Correction Method ...........................................................................................................................47
9.8 Flat Field Correction ......................................................................................................... 48
9.9 Pixel Shifting .................................................................................................................... 51
9.9.1 Pixel Shifting and True Color Resolution .........................................................................................52
9.9.2 Sequence Mode ..............................................................................................................................54
9.10 Temperature Monitor ........................................................................................................ 60
9.11 Status LED ....................................................................................................................... 60
9.12 Test Pattern ...................................................................................................................... 61
9.13 Digital IO Control .............................................................................................................. 63
9.14 Fan Control ...................................................................................................................... 65
9.15 Device User ID ................................................................................................................. 65
9.16 Device Reset .................................................................................................................... 65
9.17 User Set Control ............................................................................................................... 66
9.18 Field Upgrade ................................................................................................................... 66
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10 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................. 67
Appendix A Defective Pixel Map Download ................................................................... 68
Appendix B Field Upgrade............................................................................................... 70
B.1 MCU ................................................................................................................................. 70
B.2 FPGA ............................................................................................................................... 72
B.3 XML .................................................................................................................................. 73
Appendix C Position settings according to sequence modes ..................................... 74
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VN CXP series
Do not drop, disassemble, repair or alter the device. Doing so may damage the camera
electronics and cause an electric shock.
Do not let children touch the device without supervision.
Stop using the device and contact the nearest dealer or manufacturer for technical
assistance if liquid such as water, drinks or chemicals gets into the device.
Do not touch the device with wet hands. Doing so may cause an electric shock.
Make sure that the temperature of the camera does not exceed the temperature range
specified in 5.2 Specifications. Otherwise the device may be damaged by extreme
temperatures.
Do not install in dusty or dirty areas - or near an air conditioner or heater to reduce the risk
of damage to the device.
Avoid installing and operating in an extreme environment where vibration, heat, humidity,
dust, strong magnetic fields, explosive/corrosive mists or gases are present.
Do not apply excessive vibration and shock to the device. This may damage the device.
Avoid direct exposure to a high intensity light source. This may damage the image sensor.
Do not install the device under unstable lighting conditions. Severe lighting change will
affect the quality of the image produced by the device.
Do not use solvents or thinners to clean the surface of the device. This can damage the
surface finish.
Applying incorrect power can damage the camera. If the voltage applied to the camera is
greater or less than the camera’s nominal voltage, the camera may be damaged or operate
erratically. Please refer to 5.2 Specifications for the camera’s nominal voltage.
※ Vieworks Co., Ltd. does NOT provide power supplies with the devices.
Make sure the power is turned off before connecting the power cord to the camera.
Otherwise, damage to the camera may result.
1 Precautions
General
Installation and Maintenance
Power Supply
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VN CXP series
Type
Description
Class A
(Broadcasting Communication
Device for Office Use)
This device obtained EMC registration for office use (Class A), and may be
used in places other than home. Sellers and/or users need to take note of
this.
2 Warranty
Do not open the housing of the camera. The warranty becomes void if the housing is opened.
For information about the warranty, please contact your local dealer or factory representative.
3 Compliance & Certifications
3.1 FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expenses.
3.2 CE : DoC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
Testing Standard EN 55022:2006+A1:2007, EN 55024:1998+A1:2001+A2:2003
Class A
3.3 KC
KCC Statement
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VN CXP series
Package Components
Mount Plate (Optional)
4 Package Components
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Package Components
M5 Set Screws for Tilt Adjustment (Provided only with F-mount camera)
You can adjust the tilt using the M5 set screws, however it is not recommended since it is
adjusted as factory default settings.
If the tilt settings need to be adjusted inevitably, please contact your local dealer or factory
representative for technical support.
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VN CXP series
5 Product Specifications
5.1 Overview
VN CXP Series is a high speed industrial area scan camera equipped with the latest CMOS image sensor. It
features 25 megapixel resolutions with frame rate up to 72 fps. This is the first CMOS pixel shifting camera
whose resolution is extended from 25 megapixels up to 235 megapixels through vieworks’ iconic pixel shifting
technology. With the VN-25MX, customers in the industrial market can take advantage of 235 million pixels
resolution at 8 fps. Its CoaXPress interface supports transmitting image data at up to 6.25 Gbps using a single
coaxial cable and up to 25 Gbps using four cables. Featured with high speed and high resolution, this new
technology is ideal for inspection systems such as FPD, PCB and semiconductor as well as 3D imaging and
digitizing of different objects.
Main Features
Nano Stage Pixel Shifting Mechanism
High Speed 25 Megapixel CMOS Imaging Sensor
Extended Resolution up to 235 MP at 8 fps (9 Shot Mode)
Electronic Exposure Time Control (Global Shutter)
Output Pixel Format - 8 / 10 bit
Strobe Output
Output Channel - CXP6 2ch / CXP6 4ch
CoaXPress Interface up to 72 fps at 25 Gbps using 4 coax cables (4ch)
Gain/Black Level Control
Test Pattern
Temperature Monitor
Field Upgrade
Image Correction
Flat Field Correction
Defective Pixel Correction
Fan Control
VN CXP Series Feature Bar
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VN CXP series
VN CXP Series
VN-25MX-72
Active Image (H × V)
5120 × 5120
Sensor Type
On Semiconductor VITA-25K
Pixel Size
4.5 ㎛ × 4.5 ㎛
Optical Size (Diagonal)
35 ㎜ (32.58 ㎜)
Output
Format
Mono
Mono 8, Mono 10
Color
Bayer 8, Bayer 10
Camera Interface
CoaXPress
Electronic Shutter
Global Shutter
Max. Frame Rate
25 MP
2 CH: 36 fps 4 CH: 72 fps at 6.25 Gbps
235 MP
2 CH: 4 fps 4 CH: 8 fps at 6.25 Gbps
Dynamic Range
< 54 ㏈
Shutter Speed (1 ㎲ step)
10 ㎲ ~ 60 s
Partial Scan (Max. Speed)
7692 fps at 4 Lines (H: 256)
Black Level Control
0 ~ 16 LSB at 8 bit, 0 ~ 64 LSB at 10 bit (1 LSB step)
Gain Control
×1 ~ ×4 (0~ 12 ㏈)
Exposure Mode
Free Run, Timed, Trigger Width
External Trigger
3.3 V ~ 24.0 V, 10 ㎃, Logical Level Input, optically isolated
CoaXPress Control Port
Software Trigger
Asynchronous, Programmable via Camera API
Shift Range
0 ~ 7.5 ㎛, 1 ㎚ step
Shift Resolution
0.001 ㎛
Shift Control
Sequence Mode (mono4, mono9, mono2H, mono2V, bayer4, bayer16)
Lens Mount
F-mount
Power
Adapter
11 ~ 30 V DC, Typ. 13 W
PoCXP
24 V DC, Minimum of two PoCXP cables required
Environmental
Operating: 0℃ ~ 40℃, Storage : -40℃ ~ 70℃
Mechanical
80×80×150 ㎜ 1100 g (with F-mount)
API SDK
Vieworks Imaging Solution 7.X
5.2 Specifications
Technical Specifications for VN CXP series are as follows:
Table 5.1 Specifications of VN CXP Series
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5.3 Camera Block Diagram
Figure 5.1 Camera Block Diagram
All controls and data processing of the camera are carried out in one FPGA chip. The FPGA generally consists
of a 32 bit RICS Micro-Controller and Processing & Control logic. The Micro-Controller receives commands from
the user through the CoaXPress interface and then processes them. The Processing & Control Logic processes
the image data received from the CMOS sensor and then transmits data through the CoaXPress interface. And
also, the Processing & Control Logic controls the trigger input and strobe output signals which are sensitive to
time. Furthermore, a DDR3 to process images and a Flash for operating Micro-Controller are installed outside
FPGA. And, PZT Driver is applied to control XY Stage with nanometers unit.
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5.4 Sensor Information
The following graph shows the spectral response for VN-25MX monochrome and color camera.
Figure 5.2 Mono and Color Spectral Response for VN-25MX
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VN CXP series
5.5 Mechanical Specification
The camera dimensions in millimeters are shown in the following figure.
Figure 5.3 Mechanical Dimensions for VN-CXP F -mount with DIN 1.0/2.3-type Connectors
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VN CXP series
Since VN-25MX supports only two and four channels, you must use two or more coax
cables to configure a link between a camera and CXP Frame Grabber. At this time, you
must connect the CH1 of the CXP connector on the camera to the CH1 of the CXP Frame
Grabber.
To power a camera via PoCXP Frame Grabber, you must connect both CH1 and CH2
channels of the camera to their respective connectors on the CXP Frame Grabber.
6 Installation
The following instructions assume that you have installed a CoaXPress Frame Grabber (hereinafter ‘CXP Frame
Grabber’) in your computer including related software. Procedures below also assume that you may attempt to
configure a link between a camera and CXP Frame Grabber by using four coax cables. For more detailed
information, refer to your CXP Frame Grabber User Manual.
To connect the camera to your computer, follow the steps below:
1. Make sure that the power supply is not connected to the camera and your computer is turned off.
Go on to step 2 if you are using a power supply.
Go on to step 3 if you are using a Power over CoaXPress (PoCXP) Frame Grabber.
2. If you are using a power supply:
a. Plug one end of a coax cable into the CH1 of the CXP connector on the camera and the other end of the
coax cable into the CH1 of the CXP Frame Grabber in your computer. Then, plug one ends of the other
three coax cables into CH2, CH3 and CH4 of the CXP connector on the camera and the other ends of
the coax cables into the CH2, CH3 and CH4 of the CXP Frame Grabber respectively.
b. Connect the plug of the power adapter to the 6-pin power input receptacle on the camera.
c. Plug the power adapter into a working electrical outlet.
3. If you are using PoCXP Frame Grabber:
a. Plug one end of a coax cable into the CH1 of the CXP connector on the camera and the other end of the
coax cable into the CH1 of the CXP Frame Grabber in your computer. Then, plug one ends of the other
three coax cables into CH2, CH3, and CH4 of the CXP connector on the camera and the other ends of
the coax cables into the CH2, CH3 and CH4 of the CXP Frame Grabber respectively.
b. You must connect both CH1 and CH2 channels to power the camera via PoCXP.
4. Verify all the cable connections are secure.
Precautions for using Power over CoaXPress
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6.1 Mount Plate
The mount plate is provided as an optional item.
The camera can be fixed without using this mount plate.
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6.2 Precaution to Center the Imaging Sensor
Users do not need to center the imaging sensor as it is adjusted as factory default settings.
When you need to adjust the center of the imaging sensor, please contact your local dealer or the
manufacturer for technical assistance.
6.3 Precaution about Blurring Compared to Center
Users do not need to adjust the tilt as it is adjusted as factory default settings.
If the tilt settings need to be adjusted inevitably, please contact your local dealer or factory representative for
technical support.
6.4 Installing Vieworks Imaging Solution
You can download the Vieworks Imaging Solution at http://www.vieworks.com. You should perform the software
installation first and then the hardware installation.
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①
②
③
④
7 Camera Interface
7.1 General Description
As shown in the figure below, 3 types of connectors and a status indicator LED are located on the back of the
camera and have the functions as follows:
① Status LED: displays power status and operation mode.
② 6 pin power input receptacle: supplies power to the camera (if PoCXP is not used).
③ 4 pin control receptacle: provides access to the camera’s I/O lines.
④ CoaXPress connector: controls video data and the camera.
Figure 7.1 VN CXP with DIN 1.0/2.3-type Connectors
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Channel
Max. Bit Rate per Coax
Type
PoCXP Compliant
CH1
6.25 Gbps
Master Connection
Yes
CH2
6.25 Gbps
Extension Connection
Yes
CH3
6.25 Gbps
Extension Connection
No
CH4
6.25 Gbps
Extension Connection
No
When you connect a camera to a CXP Frame Grabber using coax cables, make sure to
connect the cables to their correct channels. If you connect the CH1 of the CXP connector on
the camera to a channel other than CH1 of the CXP Frame Grabber, the camera may not
transmit images properly or the serial communication between the computer and camera may
fail.
7.2 CoaXPress Connector
CoaXPress protocol includes an automatic link detection mechanism (Plug and Play) to correctly detect the
camera to the CXP Frame Grabber connection. The connection between the camera and CXP Frame Grabber
uses a coax (also known as ‘coaxial’) cable and provides up to 6.25 Gbps bit rate per cable. VN-25MX cameras
can be powered over the coax cable if you are using a PoCXP enabled Frame Grabber.
7.2.1 CoaXPress DIN Connector (75 Ω 1.0/2.3 DIN Receptacle)
Figure 7.2 CoaXPress DIN 1.0/2.3-type Connectors
The CoaXPress connector on the VN CXP camera complies with the CoaXPress standard and the following
table shows the channel assignments.
Table 7.1 Channel Assignments for CoaXPress Connector
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Pin Number
Signal
Type
Description
1, 2, 3
+12V DC
Input
DC Power Input
4, 5, 6
DC Ground
Input
DC Ground
Make sure the power is turned off before connecting the power cord to the camera.
Otherwise, damage to the camera may result.
If the voltage applied to the camera is greater than specified in the specifications, damage
to the camera may result.
1
2
3 4
5
6
7.3 Power Input Receptacle
The power input receptacle is a Hirose 6-pin connector (part # HR10A-7R-6PB). The pin assignments and
configurations are as follows:
Figure 7.3 Pin Assignments for 6-pin Power Input Receptacle
Table 7.2 Pin Arrangements for Power Input Receptacle
The mating connector is a Hirose 6-pin plug (part # HR10A-7P-6S) or the equivalent connectors. The power
adapter is recommended to have at least 2 A current output at 12 V DC ±10% voltage output (Users need to
purchase a power adapter separately).
Precaution for Power Input
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VN CXP series
1
2
4
3
Pin Number
Signal
Type
Description
1
Trigger Input +
Input - 2
Trigger Input -
Input - 3
DC Ground
-
DC Ground
4
Strobe Out
Output
3.3 V TTL Output
Output Resistance: 47Ω
7.4 Control I/O Receptacle
The control I/O receptacle is a Hirose 4-pin connector (part # HR10A-7R-4S) and consists of an external trigger
signal input and strobe output ports. The pin assignments and configurations are as follows:
Figure 7.4 Pin Assignments for 4-pin Control I/O Receptacle
Table 7.3 Pin Arrangements for Control I/O Receptacle
The mating connector is a Hirose 4-pin plug (part # HR10A-7P-4P) or the equivalent connectors.
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1
2
4
3
HR10A-7R-4SB
Trigger_In-
HCPL-0601
1K
+3.3V
TRIGGER_INPUT
Your GND
+3.3V ~ +24V
IR38 180/1608
Trigger_In+
SD
MMBF4393LT1G
2
3
1
Camera SideUser Side
3.3 V
STROBE_SIGNAL
TTL Driver
47 Ω
0 V
+3.3V
3.3 V
1
2
4
3
HR10A-7R-4SB
STROBE_OUT
TRIGGER_IN +
TRIGGER_IN -
7.5 Trigger Input Circuit
The following figure shows trigger signal input circuit of the 4-pin connector. Transmitted trigger signal is applied
to the internal circuit through a photo coupler. The minimum trigger width that can be recognized by the camera
is 1 ㎲. If transmitted trigger signal is less than 1 ㎲, the camera will ignore the trigger signal. An external trigger
circuit example is shown below.
Figure 7.5 Trigger Input Schematic
7.6 Strobe Output Circuit
The strobe output signal comes out through a 3.3 V output level of TTL Driver IC. A pulse width of the signal is
synchronized with an exposure (shutter) signal of the camera (refer to 9.13 Digital IO Control).
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Figure 7.6 Strobe Output Schematic
VN CXP series
When reading the explanations in the overview and in this entire chapter, keep in mind that the
term frame is typically used to mean a single acquired image.
8 Acquisition Control
This chapter provides detailed information about controlling image acquisition.
Triggering image acquisition
Setting the exposure time
Controlling the camera’s image acquisition rate
Variation of the camera’s maximum allowed image acquisition rate according to the camera settings
8.1 Overview
This section presents an overview of the elements involved with controlling the acquisition of images.
Three major elements are involved in controlling the acquisition of images:
Acquisition Start and Acquisition Stop commands and the Acquisition Mode parameter
Exposure Start trigger
Exposure time control
Acquisition Start and Stop Commands and the Acquisition Mode
The Acquisition Start command prepares the camera to acquire frames. The camera cannot acquire frames
unless an Acquisition Start command has first been executed.
A parameter called the Acquisition Mode has a direct bearing on how the Acquisition Start command
operates. VN CXP cameras only support Continuous for the Acquisition Mode parameter.
If the Acquisition Mode parameter is set to Continuous, an Acquisition Start command does not expire after
a single frame is acquired. Once an Acquisition Start command has been executed, you can acquire as many
frames as you like. The Acquisition Start command will remain in effect until you execute an Acquisition Stop
command. Once an Acquisition Stop command has been executed, the camera will not be able to acquire
frames until a new Acquisition Start command is executed.
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Exposure Start Trigger
Applying an exposure start trigger signal to the camera will exit the camera from the waiting for exposure start
trigger acquisition status and will begin the process of exposing and reading out a frame (see Figure 8.1).
As soon as the camera is ready to accept another exposure start trigger signal, it will return to the waiting for
exposure start trigger acquisition status. A new exposure start trigger signal can then be applied to the camera to
begin another frame exposure.
The exposure start trigger has two modes: off and on.
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to Off, the camera will generate all required exposure start trigger signals
internally, and you do not need to apply exposure start trigger signals to the camera. The rate at which the
camera will generate the signals and acquire frames will be determined by the way that you set several frame
rate related parameters.
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On, you must trigger exposure start by applying exposure start trigger
signals to the camera. Each time a trigger signal is applied, the camera will begin a frame exposure. When
exposure start is being triggered in this manner, it is important that you do not attempt to trigger frames at a rate
that is greater than the maximum allowed (There is a detailed explanation about the maximum allowed frame
rate at the end of this chapter.). Exposure start trigger signals applied to the camera when it is not in a waiting for
exposure start trigger acquisition status will be ignored.
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Figure 8.1 Exposure Start Triggering
VN CXP series
Applying Trigger Signals
The paragraphs above mention "applying a trigger signal". There are three ways to apply an exposure start
trigger signal to the camera: via Software, via CXPin or via LineIn0 (commonly referred to as hardware).
To apply trigger signals via Software, you must set the Trigger Source parameter to Software. At that point,
each time a Trigger Software command is executed, the exposure start trigger signal will be applied to the
camera.
To apply trigger signals via CH1 of the CXP Frame Grabber, you must set the Trigger Source parameter to
CXPin. At that point, each time a proper CoaXPress trigger signal is applied to the camera by using the APIs
provided by a CXP Frame Grabber manufacturer, the exposure start trigger signal will be applied to the camera.
For more information, refer to your CXP Frame Grabber User Manual.
To apply trigger signals via hardware (external), you must set the Trigger Source parameter to LineIn0. At that
point, each time a proper electrical signal is applied to the camera, an occurrence of the exposure start trigger
signal will be recognized by the camera.
Exposure Time Control
When an exposure start trigger signal is applied to the camera, the camera will begin to acquire a frame.
A critical aspect of frame acquisition is how long the pixels in the camera’s sensor will be exposed to light during
the frame acquisition.
If the Trigger Source parameter is set to Software, a parameter called the Exposure Time will determine the
exposure time for each frame. At this point, you must set the Exposure Mode parameter to Timed.
If the Trigger Source parameter is set to CXPin or LineIn0, there are two modes of operation: Timed and
Trigger Width.
With the Timed mode, the Exposure Time parameter will determine the exposure time for each frame.
With the Trigger Width mode, the way that you manipulate the rise and fall of the CoaXPress or external signal
will determine the exposure time. The Trigger Width mode is especially useful if you want to change the
exposure time from frame to frame.
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8.2 Acquisition Start/Stop Commands and Acquisition Mode
Executing an Acquisition Start command prepares the camera to acquire frames. You must execute an
Acquisition Start command before you can begin acquiring frames. Executing an Acquisition Stop command
terminates the camera’s ability to acquire frames. When the camera receives an Acquisition Stop command:
If the camera is not in the process of acquiring a frame, its ability to acquire frames will be terminated
immediately.
If the camera is in the process of acquiring a frame, the frame acquisition process will be allowed to finish
and the camera’s ability to acquire new frames will be terminated.
VN CXP cameras only provide the ‘Continuous’ mode of operation for the Acquisition Mode.
After an Acquisition Start command has been executed, exposure start can be triggered as desired. Each time
an exposure start trigger is applied while the camera is in a waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status,
the camera will acquire and transmit a frame. The camera will retain the ability to acquire frames until an
Acquisition Stop command is executed. Once the Acquisition Stop command is received, the camera will no
longer be able to acquire frames.
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VN CXP series
Free Run
When you set the Trigger Mode parameter to Off, the camera will generate all required trigger
signals internally. When the camera is set this way, it will constantly acquire images without any
need for triggering by the user. This use case is commonly referred as “free run”.
8.3 Exposure Start Trigger
The Trigger Selector parameter is used to select a type of trigger and only the Exposure Start trigger is
available on the VN CXP camera. The Exposure Start trigger is used to begin frame acquisition.
Exposure start trigger signals can be generated within the camera or may be applied externally by setting the
Trigger Source parameter to Software, CXPin or LineIn0. If an exposure start trigger signal is applied to the
camera, the camera will begin to expose a frame.
8.3.1 Trigger Mode
The main parameter associated with the exposure start trigger is the Trigger Mode parameter. The Trigger
Mode parameter for the exposure start trigger has two available settings: Off and On.
8.3.1.1 Trigger Mode = Off
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to Off, the camera will generate all required exposure start trigger
signals internally, and you do not need to apply exposure start trigger signals to the camera.
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to Off, the camera will automatically begin generating exposure start trigger
signals when it receives an Acquisition Start command. The camera will continue to generate exposure start
trigger signals until it receives an Acquisition Stop command.
The rate at which the exposure start trigger signals are generated may be determined by the camera’s
Acquisition Frame Rate parameter.
If the parameter is set to a value less than the maximum allowed frame rate with the current camera
settings, the camera will generate exposure start trigger signals at the rate specified by the parameter
setting.
If the parameter is set to a value greater than the maximum allowed frame rate with the current camera
settings, the camera will generate exposure start trigger signals at the maximum allowed frame rate.
Exposure Time Control with Trigger Mode = Off
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to Off, the exposure time for each frame acquisition is determined by
the value of the camera’s Exposure Time parameter. For more information about the Exposure Time parameter,
see 8.4 Setting the Exposure Time.
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VN CXP series
8.3.1.2 Trigger Mode = On
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On, you must apply an exposure start trigger signal to the camera
each time you want to begin a frame acquisition. The Trigger Source parameter specifies the source signal that
will act as the exposure start trigger signal.
The available settings for the Trigger Source parameter are:
Software: You can apply an exposure start trigger signal to the camera by executing a Trigger Software
command for the exposure start trigger on your computer.
CXPin: You can apply an exposure start trigger signal via CH1 of the CXP Frame Grabber.
For more information, refer to your CXP Frame Grabber User Manual.
LineIn0: You can apply an exposure start trigger signal to the camera by injecting an externally generated
electrical signal (commonly referred to as a hardware or external trigger signal) into the Control
I/O receptacle on the camera. Refer to 7.5 Trigger Input Circuit for more information.
If the Trigger Source parameter is set to CXPin or LineIn0, you must also set the Trigger Activation
parameter.
The available settings for the Trigger Activation parameter are:
Rising Edge: Specifies that a rising edge of the electrical signal will act as the exposure start trigger.
Falling Edge: Specifies that a falling edge of the electrical signal will act as the exposure start trigger.
Exposure Time Control with Trigger Mode = On
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On and the Trigger Source parameter is set to Software, the
exposure time for each frame acquisition is determined by the value of the camera’s Exposure Time parameter.
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On and the Trigger Source parameter is set to CXPin or LineIn0,
the exposure time for each frame acquisition can be controlled with the Exposure Time parameter or it can be
controlled by manipulating the external trigger signal.
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When you use a software trigger signal to acquire frames, be aware that there is a Trigger
Latency due to the characteristics of the CoaXPress. Use an external trigger signal to precisely
synchronize the trigger signal with the exposure timing.
8.3.2 Using a Software Trigger Signal
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On and the Trigger Source parameter is set to Software, you must
apply a software trigger signal (exposure start) to the camera to begin each frame acquisition. Assuming that the
camera is in a waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status, frame exposure will start when the software
trigger signal is received by the camera. Figure 8.2 illustrates frame acquisition with a software trigger signal.
When the camera receives a software trigger signal and begins exposure, it will exit the waiting for exposure
start trigger acquisition status because at that point, it cannot react to a new exposure start trigger signal.
As soon as the camera is capable of reacting to a new exposure start trigger signal, it will automatically return to
the waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status.
When you are using a software trigger signal to start each frame acquisition, the camera’s Exposure Mode
parameter must be set to Timed. The exposure time for each acquired frame will be determined by the value of
the camera’s Exposure Time parameter.
Figure 8.2 Frame Acquisition with Software Trigger Signal
When you are using a software trigger signal to start each frame acquisition, the frame rate will be determined by
how often you apply a software trigger signal to the camera, and you should not attempt to trigger frame
acquisition at a rate that exceeds the maximum allowed for the current camera settings. (There is a detailed
explanation about the maximum allowed frame rate at the end of this chapter.) Software trigger signals that are
applied to the camera when it is not ready to receive them will be ignored.
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8.3.3 Using a CoaXPress Trigger Signal
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On and the Trigger Source parameter is set to CXPin, you must apply a
CoaXPress trigger signal to the camera to begin each frame acquisition. A CoaXPress trigger signal will acts as
the exposure start trigger signal for the camera. For more information, refer to your CXP Frame Grabber User
Manual.
A rising edge or a falling edge of the CoaXPress signal can be used to trigger frame acquisition. The Trigger
Activation parameter is used to select rising edge or falling edge triggering.
Assuming that the camera is in a waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status, frame acquisition will start
whenever the appropriate edge transition is received by the camera.
When the camera receives a CoaXPress trigger signal and begins exposure, it will exit the waiting for exposure
start trigger acquisition status because at that point, it cannot react to a new exposure start trigger signal.
As soon as the camera is capable of reacting to a new exposure start trigger signal, it will automatically return to
the waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status.
When the camera is operating under control of a CoaXPress signal, the period of the CoaXPress trigger signal
will determine the rate at which the camera is acquiring frames:
For example, if you are operating a camera with a CoaXPress trigger signal period of 50 ㎳ (0.05 s):
So in this case, the frame rate is 20 fps.
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8.3.4 Using an External Trigger Signal
If the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On and the Trigger Source parameter is set to LineIn0, an externally
generated electrical signal injected into the Control I/O Receptacle pin 1 will act as the exposure start trigger
signal for the camera. This type of trigger signal is generally referred to as a hardware trigger signal.
A rising edge or a falling edge of the external signal can be used to trigger frame acquisition. The Trigger
Activation parameter is used to select rising edge or falling edge triggering.
Assuming that the camera is in a waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status, frame acquisition will start
whenever the appropriate edge transition is received by the camera.
When the camera receives an external trigger signal and begins exposure, it will exit the waiting for exposure
start trigger acquisition status because at that point, it cannot react to a new exposure start trigger signal.
As soon as the camera is capable of reacting to a new exposure start trigger signal, it will automatically return to
the waiting for exposure start trigger acquisition status.
When the camera is operating under control of an external signal, the period of the external trigger signal will
determine the rate at which the camera is acquiring frames:
For example, if you are operating a camera with an External trigger signal period of 50 ㎳ (0.05 s):
So in this case, the frame rate is 20 fps.
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8.3.4.1 Exposure Modes
If you are triggering the start of frame acquisition with an externally (CoaXPress or External) generated trigger
signal, two exposure modes are available: Timed and Trigger Width.
Timed Exposure Mode
When the Timed mode is selected, the exposure time for each frame acquisition is determined by the value of
the camera’s Exposure Time parameter. If the camera is set for rising edge triggering, the exposure time starts
when the external trigger signal rises. If the camera is set for falling edge triggering, the exposure time starts
when the external trigger signal falls. Figure 8.3 illustrates Timed exposure with the camera set for rising edge
triggering.
Figure 8.3 Timed Exposure Mode
Note that if you attempt to trigger a new exposure start while the previous exposure is still in progress, the trigger
signal will be ignored.
Figure 8.4 Trigger Overlapped with Timed Exposure Mode
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Trigger Width Exposure Mode
When the Trigger Width exposure mode is selected, the length of the exposure for each frame acquisition will
be directly controlled by the external trigger signal (CoaXPress or External). If the camera is set for rising edge
triggering, the exposure time begins when the external trigger signal rises and continues until the external trigger
signal falls. If the camera is set for falling edge triggering, the exposure time begins when the external trigger
signal falls and continues until the external trigger signal rises. Figure 8.5 illustrates Trigger Width exposure
with the camera set for rising edge triggering.
Trigger Width exposure is especially useful if you intend to vary the length of the exposure time for each frame.
Figure 8.5 Trigger Width Exposure Mode
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Camera Model
Number of Channels
Minimum Exposure Time
Maximum Exposure Time
†
VN-25MX
2 Channels
10 ㎲
60,000,000 ㎲
4 Channels
10 ㎲
60,000,000 ㎲
†: When the Exposure Mode is set to Trigger Width, the exposure time is controlled by the external trigger
signal and has no maximum limit.
8.4 Setting the Exposure Time
This section describes how the exposure time can be adjusted manually by setting the value of the Exposure
Time parameter. If you are operating the camera in any one of the following ways, you must specify an exposure
time by setting the camera’s Exposure Time parameter.
the Trigger Mode is set to Off
the Trigger Mode is set to On and the Trigger Source is set to Software (In this case, you must set the
Exposure Mode parameter to Timed.)
the Trigger Mode is set to On, the Trigger Source is set to CXPin or LineIn0, and the Exposure Mode is
set to Timed.
The Exposure Time parameter must not be set below a minimum specified value. The Exposure Time
parameter sets the exposure time in microseconds (㎲). The minimum and maximum exposure time settings for
each camera model are shown in the following table.
Table 8.1 Minimum and Maximum Exposure Time Setting
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8.5 Overlapping Exposure with Sensor Readout
The frame acquisition process on the camera includes two distinct parts. The first part is the exposure of the
pixels in the imaging sensor. Once exposure is complete, the second part of the process – readout of the pixel
values from the sensor – takes place. In regard to this frame acquisition process, VN CXP cameras basically
operate with ‘overlapped’ exposure so that the exposure for a new frame can be overlapped with the sensor
readout for the previous frame.
When the Trigger Mode parameter is set to On, the exposure of a new frame begins while the camera is still
reading out the sensor data for the previously acquired frame. This situation is illustrated in Figure 8.6 with the
Trigger Source parameter set to LineIn0 and the Exposure Mode parameter set to Trigger Width.
Figure 8.6 Overlapped Exposure and Readout
Determining whether your camera is operating with overlapped exposure and readout is not a matter of issuing a
command or changing a setting. Rather a way that you operate the camera will determine whether the
exposures and readouts are overlapped or not. If we define the “Frame Period” as the time from the start of
exposure for one frame acquisition to the start of exposure for the next frame acquisition, then:
Overlapped: Frame Period ≤ Exposure Time + Readout Time
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Guidelines for Overlapped Exposure
Since VN CXP cameras operate with overlapped exposure, there are two important guidelines to keep in mind:
You must not begin the exposure time for a new image acquisition while the exposure time of the previous
acquisition is in progress.
You must not end the exposure time of the current image acquisition until readout of the previously acquired
image is complete.
When you are operating a camera with overlapped exposure and using an external trigger signal to trigger
image acquisition, you could use the camera’s Exposure Time parameter settings and timing formula to calculate
when it is safe to begin each new acquisition.
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8.6 Electronic Shutter Operation
VN CXP cameras are equipped with imaging sensors that have an electronic shutter. There are two types of
electronic sensors, i.e. global and rolling. VN CXP cameras use sensors with global shutters.
8.6.1 Global Shutter
When an exposure start trigger signal is applied to the cameras equipped with a global shutter, exposure begins
for all lines in the sensor as shown in Figure 8.7. Exposure continues for all lines in the sensor until the
programmed exposure time ends or when the exposure start trigger signal ends the exposure time if the camera
is using the trigger width exposure mode. At the end of the exposure time, exposure ends for all lines in the
sensor. Immediately after the end of exposure, pixel data readout begins and proceeds line by line until all pixel
data is read out of the sensor. A main characteristic of a global shutter is that for each frame acquisition, all of
the pixels in the sensor start exposing at the same time and all end exposing at the same time. This means that
image brightness tends to be more uniform over the entire area of each acquired image, and it helps to minimize
problems with acquiring images of object in motion.
The cameras can provide a Strobe Out output signal that will go high when the exposure time for a frame
acquisition begins and will go down when the exposure time ends.
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Figure 8.7 Global Shutter
VN CXP series
A very long exposure time severely limits the camera’s maximum allowed frame rate.
As an example, assume that your camera is set to use a 1 second exposure time. In this case,
because each frame acquisition will take at least 1 second to be completed, the camera will
only be able to acquire a maximum of one frame per second.
8.7 Maximum Allowed Frame Rate
In general, the maximum allowed acquisition frame rate on the camera may be limited by several factors:
The amount of time that it takes to transmit an acquired frame from the camera to your computer.
The amount of time needed to transmit a frame depends on the bandwidth assigned to the camera.
The amount of time it takes to read an acquired frame out of the imaging sensor and into the camera’s
frame buffer. This time varies depending on the setting for the Height parameter. Frames with a smaller
height take less time to read out of the sensor. The frame height is determined by the camera’s Height
settings (Image Format Control).
On the VN-25MX camera, frames with a smaller width also take less time to read out of the sensor.
For more information, refer to Table 9.3.
The exposure time for acquired frames. If you use very long exposure times, you can acquire fewer frames
per second.
8.7.1 Increasing the Maximum Allowed Frame Rate
You may find that you would like to acquire frames at a rate higher than the maximum allowed with the camera’s
current settings. In this case, you must adjust one or more of the factors that can influence the maximum allowed
frame rate and then check to see if the maximum allowed frame rate has increased:
The time that it takes to transmit a frame out of the camera is the main limiting factor on the frame rate. You
can decrease the frame transmission time (and thus increase the maximum allowed frame rate) by using the
ROI feature.
Use a smaller ROI. Decreasing the ROI means that the camera has less data to transmit and therefore
the transmission time will decrease.
If you are using normal exposure times and you are using the camera at its maximum resolution, your
exposure time will not normally restrict the frame rate. However, if you are using long exposure times or
small region of interest, it is possible that your exposure time is limiting the maximum allowed frame rate. If
you are using a long exposure time or a small ROI, try using a shorter exposure time and see if the
maximum allowed frame rate increases. (You may need to compensate for a lower exposure time by using a
brighter light source or increasing the opening of your lens aperture.)
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9 Camera Features
9.1 Image Region of Interest
The Image Region of Interest (ROI) feature allows you to specify a portion of the sensor array. You can acquire
only the frame data from the specified portion of the sensor array while preserving the same quality as you
acquire a frame from the entire sensor array.
On the VN-25MX camera, you can achieve increased frame rates by decreasing the height and/or width of the
ROI. The ROI is referenced to the top left corner [origin (0, 0)] of the sensor array as follows.
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Figure 9.1 Image Region of Interest
VN CXP series
XML Parameters
Value
Description
ImageFormatControl
SensorWidtha
-
Effective width of the sensor
SensorHeighta
-
Effective height of the sensor
WidthMax
-
Maximum allowed width of the image with the current
camera settings
HeightMax
-
Maximum allowed height of the image with the current
camera settings
Widthb
-
Current width of the image
Heightb
-
Current height of the image
OffsetX c
-
Horizontal offset from the origin to the Image ROI
OffsetY c
-
Vertical offset from the origin to the Image ROI
The unit for all parameters in this table is pixel
a: Read only. User cannot change the value
b: User configurable parameters for setting ROI
c: User configurable parameters for setting the origin of the ROI
Camera Model
Minimum Width Settings
Minimum Height Settings
VN-25MX
256
4
The XML parameters related to ROI settings are as follows.
You can change the size of ROI by setting the Width and Height parameters. And also, you can change the
position of the ROI origin by setting the Offset X and Offset Y parameters.
Make sure that the Width + Offset X value is less than the Width Max value, and the Height + Offset Y value is
less than the Height Max value. You must set the size of the ROI first, and then set the Offset values since the
Width and Height parameters are set to its maximum value by default.
On the VN-25MX camera, the Width parameter must be set to a multiple of 64, and the Height parameter
must be set to a multiple of 2 only on the color model.
The minimum allowed setting values for the ROI Width and Height are shown below.
Table 9.2 Minimum ROI Width and Height Settings
Table 9.1 XML parameters related to ROI
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ROI Size (H × V)
2 Channels
4 Channels
5120 × 1000
180 fps
360 fps
5120 × 2000
92 fps
184 fps
5120 × 3000
62 fps
124 fps
5120 × 4000
46 fps
92 fps
5120 × 5120
36 fps
72 fps
256 ~ 3776 × 5120
49 fps
98 fps
4032 × 5120
46 fps
92 fps
4544 × 5120
41 fps
82 fps
5120 × 5120
36 fps
72 fps
ROI Size (H × V)
Sequence Mode
2 Channels
4 Channels
5120 × 1000
Mono4Frame
45 fps
90 fps
Mono9Frame
20 fps
40 fps
5120 × 2000
Mono4Frame
23 fps
46 fps
Mono9Frame
10.2 fps
20.4 fps
5120 × 5120
Mono4Frame
9 fps
18 fps
Mono9Frame
4 fps
8 fps
256 ~ 3776 × 5120
Mono4Frame
12.25 fps
24.5 fps
Mono9Frame
5.4 fps
10.8 fps
4032 × 5120
Mono4Frame
11.5 fps
23 fps
Mono9Frame
5.1 fps
10.2 fps
4544 × 5120
Mono4Frame
10.25 fps
20.5 fps
Mono9Frame
4.5 fps
9.1 fps
5120 × 5120
Mono4Frame
9 fps
18 fps
Mono9Frame
4 fps
8 fps
On the VN-25MX camera, the maximum frame rates depending on Vertical and Horizontal ROI changes are
shown below.
Table 9.3 Maximum Frame Rates by VN-25MX ROI Changes
When you set the Sequence Mode to Mono4Frame (Bayer4Frame) or Mono9Frame, the maximum frame rates
depending on Vertical and Horizontal ROI changes are shown below.
Table 9.4 Maximum Frame Rates according to the Sequence Mode and ROI Changes
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
CoaXPress
CxpLinkConfigurationPreferredSwitch
CXP6_X2
Sets the A parameter value to CXP6_X2.
CXP6_X4
Sets the A parameter value to CXP6_X4.
CxpLinkConfigurationPreferredA
Read Only
Displays bit rate and the number of
connections to be set for the link
configuration between the camera and
Host (Frame Grabber) while discovering
devices.
CXPLinkConfiguration
CXP6_X2
CXP6_X4
Forcefully sets bit rate and the number of
connections for the link configuration.
ex) CXP6_X4: Four connections running
at a maximum of CXP6 speed (6.25 Gbps)
9.2 CXP Link Configuration
VN CXP cameras must be connected to a CXP Frame Grabber installed in your computer via CoaXPress
interface. CoaXPress interface allows you to connect a camera to a CXP Frame Grabber by using simple coax
cabling and allows up to 6.25 Gbps data rate per cable. VN CXP cameras support one master connection and
up to three extension connections to configure a link. In compliance with the CoaXPress standard, VN CXP
cameras include an automatic link detection mechanism to correctly detect the camera to CXP Frame Grabber
connections.
Figure 9.2 CXP Link Configuration
The XML parameters related to the link configuration between the camera and CXP Frame Grabber are located
in the CoaXPress category under the Transport Layer Control as shown below.
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Table 9.5 XML Parameter related to CXP Link Configuration
VN CXP series
MSB
LSB
10Bit Output
8Bit Output
D9 D8 D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 D0
D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 D0
Original
Data
D9 D8 D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 D0
XML Parameters
Description
ImageFormatControl
PixelFormat
Sets the pixel format supported by the device.
Mono Sensor
Color Sensor
Mono 8
Mono 10
Bayer RG 8
Bayer RG 10
9.3 Pixel Format
The camera processes image data in the unit of 10 bit. You can determine the format (8 bits or 10 bits) of these
image data transmitted from the camera by selecting the Pixel Format parameter. When the camera is set for
8 bit pixel format, the 2 least significant bits will be dropped from overall 10 bits.
Figure 9.3 Pixel Format
The XML parameter related to the Pixel Format is as follows.
Table 9.6 XML Parameter related to Pixel Format
The available pixel formats on the monochrome and color cameras are as follows.
Table 9.7 Pixel Format Values
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
DataRoiControl
RoiSelector
WhiteBalanceAuto
Selects a Data ROI used for Balance White Auto.
Only available on color cameras
RoiOffsetX
-
X coordinate of start point ROI
RoiOffsetY
-
Y coordinate of start point ROI
RoiWidth
-
Width of ROI
RoiHeight
-
Height of ROI
9.4 Data ROI (Color Camera)
The Balance White Auto feature provided by the color camera uses the pixel data from a Data Region of
Interest (ROI) to adjust the related parameters. The XML parameters related to Data ROI are as follows.
Table 9.8 XML Parameters related to Data ROI
Only the pixel data from the area of overlap between the data ROI by your settings and the Image ROI will be
effective if you use Image ROI and Data ROI at the same time. The effective ROI is determined as shown in the
figure below.
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Figure 9.4 Effective Data ROI
VN CXP series
XML Parameters
Value
Description
AnalogControl
BalanceRatioSelector
Red
A Balance Ratio will be applied to red pixels.
Blue
A Balance Ratio will be applied to blue pixels.
BalanceRatio
×1.0 ~ ×4.0
Controls ratio of the selected color by referring to
Green.
XML Parameters
Value
Description
AnalogControl
BalanceWhiteAuto
Off
Balance White Auto Off
Once
White Balance is adjusted once and then Off.
9.5 White Balance (Color Camera)
The color cameras include the white balance capability to adjust the color balance of the images transmitted
from the cameras. With the white balancing scheme used on VN CXP cameras, the Red intensity and Blue
intensity can be adjusted individually. You can set the intensity of each color by using the Balance Ratio
parameter. The Balance Ratio value can range from 1.0 to 4.0. If the Balance Ratio parameter is set to 1.0 for a
color, the intensity of the color will be unaffected by the white balance mechanism. If the Balance Ratio is set to
greater than 1.0, the intensity of the color will be proportionally increased to the ratio. For example, if the
Balance Ratio is set to 1.5, the intensity of that color will be increased by 50%.
The XML parameters related to White Balance are as follows.
Table 9.9 XML Parameters related to White Balance
9.5.1 Balance White Auto
The Balance White Auto feature is implemented on color cameras. It will control the white balance of the image
acquired from the color camera according to the GeryWorld algorithm. Before using the Balance White Auto
feature, you need to set the Data ROI for Balance White Auto. If you do not set the related Data ROI, the pixel
data from the Image ROI will be used to control the white balance. As soon as the Balance White Auto
parameter is set to Once, the Balance Ratio values for Red and Blue will be automatically adjusted to adjust the
white balance by referring to Green. The XML parameters related to Balance White Auto are as follows.
Table 9.10 XML Parameters related to Balance White Auto
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
AnalogControl
GainSelector
DigitalAll
Applies gain to all digital channels.
Gain
×1.0~×4.0
Sets an absolute physical gain value (0 ㏈ ~ 12 ㏈)
BlackLevelSelector
DigitalAll
Applies black level to all digital channels.
BlackLevel
0~16
0~64
Sets an absolute physical black level value.
0 ~ 16 LSB @ 8 bit
0 ~ 64 LSB @ 10 bit
9.6 Gain and Black Level
Increasing the Gain parameter increases the slope of the camera’s response curve as shown in the figure below.
This results in a higher grey value output from the camera for a given amount of output from the imaging sensor.
Adjusting the Black Level parameter will result in an offset to the pixel values output from the camera.
The XML parameters related to Gain and Black Level are as follows.
Figure 9.5 Setting the Gain
Table 9.11 XML Parameters related to Gain and Black Level
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L3 L2 L1 R1 R2 R3
<Current Pixel>
Adjacent Defect Pixel (s)
Correction Value of Current Pixel
None
(L1 + R1) / 2
L1
R1
R1
L1
L1, R1
(L2 + R2 ) / 2
L1, R1, R2
L2
L2, L1, R1
R2
L2, L1, R1, R2
(L3 + R3) / 2
L2, L1, R1, R2, R3
L3
L3, L2, L1, R1, R2
R3
You must download a Defect Pixel Map to the camera before using the Defective Pixel
Correction feature. For more information about how to download a Defect Pixel Map to the
camera, refer to Appendix A.
9.7 Defective Pixel Correction
The CMOS sensor may have Defect Pixels which cannot properly react to the light. Correction is required since
it may deteriorate the quality of output image. Defect Pixel information of CMOS used for each camera is entered
into the camera during the manufacturing process. If you want to add Defect Pixel information, it is required to
enter coordinate of new Defect Pixel into the camera. For more information, refer to Appendix A.
9.7.1 Correction Method
Correction value for Defect Pixel is calculated based on valid pixel value adjacent in the same line.
Figure 9.6 Location of Defect Pixel to be corrected
If Current Pixel is a Defect Pixel as shown in the above figure, correction value of this pixel is obtained as shown
in the following table depending on whether surrounding pixel is Defect Pixel or not.
Table 9.12 Calculation of Defect Pixel Correction Value
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It is recommended that you enable the Defective Pixel Correction feature before executing
the Ffc Generate parameter.
Before executing the Ffc Generate parameter, you must set the camera as follows:
OffsetX, Y: 0
Width, Height: Maximum values
After executing an Acquisition Start command, you need to operate the camera with free-
run mode or apply a trigger signal to acquire an image.
9.8 Flat Field Correction
The Flat Field Correction feature improves the image uniformity when you acquire a non-uniformity image due
to external conditions. The Flat Field Correction feature can be summarized by the following equation:
IC = IR / IF
Where,
IC : Level value of corrected image;
IR : Level value of original image;
IF : Level value of Flat Field data.
In actual use conditions, generate a Flat Field data (IF) and apply the Flat Field Correction feature according to
the following procedures.
1. Execute the Ffc Generate parameter.
After executing the Ffc Generate parameter, you must acquire one image to generate the scaled-down Flat
Field data.
2. Execute the Ffc Save parameter to save the generated Flat Field data into the non-volatile memory.
When the scaled-down Flat Field data is used for corrections, it is expanded and applied with a Bilinear
Interpolation as shown in the Figure 9.8.
3. Set the Ffc Mode parameter to On to apply the Flat Field data to the camera.
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Figure 9.7 Generation and Application of Flat Field Data
Figure 9.8 Bilinear Interpolated Magnification
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
FlatFieldCorrection
FfcMode
Off
Flat Field Correction Off
On
Enables the Flat Field Correction feature.
FfcGenerate
-
Generates the Flat Field data.
FfcSave
-
Saves the generated Flat Field data in the non-volatile
memory. The generated data by executing the
FfcGenerate parameter are saved in the volatile
memory so that the data are lost if the camera is reset or
if power is turned off. To use the data after the camera is
powered on or reset, save them in the non-volatile
memory.
FfcLoad
-
Loads the Flat Field data from the non-volatile memory
into volatile memory.
The XML parameters related to Flat Field Correction are as follows.
Table 9.13 XML Parameters related to Flat Field Correction
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The camera contains components sensitive to heat, shock, or vibration. Handle this camera
with the maximum care. Operate the camera at temperature between 0℃ and 40℃.
Due to a temperature difference between the inside and outside of the product, moisture
may condense inside or outside the camera. This moisture condensation may cause a
malfunction of the camera or shorten the product life cycle. If some condensation occurs,
turn off the camera and wait about an hour until the moisture evaporates.
9.9 Pixel Shifting
The VN-25MX camera has a feature to shift the imaging sensor to X and Y direction precisely using 2D-Stage.
The resulting image can be combined of 4 individual images captured by shifting the imaging sensor to X and Y
direction as shown in the figure below. Thus, the output image offers improved resolution (4 Shot Result Image)
in comparison with standard output image (1 Shot Result Image). Combing the images should be done on the
PC side with software processing. Please contact local dealer or factory representative for the details on the
sample software combining the images.
Figure 9.9 Comparison of a Pixel Shifting Image with Standard Image
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9 Shot Mono at 100%
1 Shot Mono at 300%
9.9.1 Pixel Shifting and True Color Resolution
One benefit of pixel shifting technology in comparison to fixed sensor cameras is its ability to acquire more than
4 times higher resolution than the fixed one. The figures below show a standard output image and 9 shifting
output image. In case of VN-25MX camera model, the output image will have 15,360 15,360 (235.9
Megapixel) resolution if the pixel shifting is applied. Otherwise, the resolution of output image is 5,120 5,120
(25 Megapixel) without pixel shifting.
Figure 9.10 Standard (left) vs. 9 Shot Pixel Shifting (right)
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Another benefit of pixel shifting technology compared to fixed CCD is acquiring True Color image. If a camera
uses Bayer Interpolation to produce a color image, unwanted artifacts may occur such as color moiré or false
color pixels. Using pixel shifting, no color artifacts or aliasing will occur and the color resolution is optimized.
Figure 9.11 Standard Image Color vs. Pixel Shifting Image Color
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9.9.2 Sequence Mode
9.9.2.1 Pixel Shifting Sequence Mode
The following Sequence Modes of pixel shifting are available on the VN-25MX camera:
1. Mono 4 Frame (Doubled vertical and horizontal resolution)
2. Mono 9 Frame (Tripled vertical and horizontal resolution)
3. Mono 2 Frame H (Doubled horizontal resolution)
4. Mono 2 Frame V (Doubled vertical resolution)
5. Bayer 4 Frame (Full color resolution, no increase in resolution)
6. Bayer 16 Frame (Full color resolution, doubled vertical and horizontal resolution)
9.9.2.2 Operation of Sequence Mode
In the Sequence Mode, the position of the stage has been predefined and thus you can operate the sequence
just by applying a trigger signal to the camera. The default position of the stage is (0, 0) and the following
position will vary depending on the sequence mode. Once one cycle of operation has completed, the stage
position returns to (0, 0). When the camera is running in the Free-Run mode, the sequence mode will be
deactivated because the sequence mode is synchronized only with Software Trigger, External Trigger or
CoaXPress Trigger. Refer to Appendix C for the position configurations according to the sequence modes.
The minimum trigger period can be obtained as shown in the following expression:
When sum of exposure time and stage setup time is shorter than frame transfer time:
(Frame Transfer Time > Exposure Time + Stage Setup Time)
Minimum Trigger Period = Frame Transfer Time
When sum of exposure time and stage setup time is longer than frame transfer time:
(Frame Transfer Time < Exposure Time + Stage Setup Time)
Minimum Trigger Period = Exposure Time + Stage Setup Time
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
StageControl
StageMode
Off
Sequence Off
Mono4Frame
4 shot Mono
Mono9Frame
9 shot Mono
Mono2FrameH
2 shot Mono in horizontal direction
Mono2FrameV
2 shot Mono in vertical direction
Bayer4Frame
4 shot Color (Color Camera Only)
Bayer16Frame
16 shot Color (Color Camera Only)
Figure 9.12 Sequence Mode Timing Diagram
The XML parameter related to Sequence Mode is as follows.
Table 9.14 XML Parameters related to Sequence Mode
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9.9.2.3 Multi Shot
When Multi Shot is enabled, the sequence operation that is followed by the first trigger input will be performed
automatically by internal trigger. Internal trigger is generated by calculating the optimized timing reflecting trigger
delay and stage setup time. Trigger input from the external ports will be ignored until completing the readout of
the last image.
Multi Shot Enable: 1 trigger N snap
Sequence is performed in sequence with one trigger input.
Multi Shot Disable: 1 trigger 1 snap
Exposure synchronizes with trigger input and N times trigger input is required
to acquire N images.
Figure 9.13 Timing Diagram when Multi Shot is enabled on Sequence 4 Shot Mode
Figure 9.14 Timing Diagram when Multi Shot is disabled on Sequence 4 Shot Mode
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
StageControl
MultishotEnable
Off
Multi Shot feature Off
On
Enables the Multi Shot feature.
The XML parameter related to Multi Shot is as follows.
Table 9.15 XML Parameters related to Multi Shot
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Zero point drift (the displacement sensor strays from the stage’s operating range) may occur
according to changes to mechanical parts of the camera or to the temperature on the
installation environment. In this case, executing a Stage Reset command will compensate zero
point drift to operate the stage normally.
An impact of 5G or more would distort the operation range of the stage or alignment of the
sensor and cause permanent damage to the stage since it is mechanically sensitive to shocks.
Please handle the camera with care.
9.9.2.4 Stage Reset
Executing the Stage Reset command will reset the stage. Stage reset performs the following two features
depending on the current status of the stage.
Sequence Mode reset
When the Stage Reset command is executed while running the stage, the camera stops and resets the
sequence, and then returns to the waiting for the trigger input status.
Stage Position Sensor Calibration
Zero points can be changed according to temperature changes since the displacement sensor of the
stage is sensitive to temperature. This feature adjusts zero point of the displacement sensor so that the
sensor can be maintained within the operating range.
9.9.2.5 Calibration Auto
This feature is only available when the Sequence Mode is enabled. If the Calibration Auto feature is set to On,
the displacement sensor of the stage will be reset (zero point adjustment) whenever one cycle of sequence is
completed.
9.9.2.6 Stage Status
In the Sequence Mode, you can determine whether the stage normally operates or not by counting the number
of images acquired. When you set the Sequence Mode to Mono4Frame, for example, the camera will acquire
and transfer four images. However, if the camera unexpectedly stops the sequence, the camera cannot acquire
and transfer four images in this abnormal operation status. In this case, read the StageStatus parameter value
in the StageControl category and then send it to local dealer or factory representative. Vieworks can diagnose
the camera with the error code.
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
StageControl
StageReset
-
Resets the stage.
CalibrationAuto
Off
Not to execute the Stage Reset after completing one
cycle of sequence.
On
Executes the Stage Reset automatically after completing
one cycle of sequence.
StageStatus
-
Returns an error code if the stage operates abnormally.
XML Parameters
Value
Description
StageControl
StageIndexDisplay
Off
Disables the Index Display when acquiring images in the
Sequence Mode.
On
Enables the Index Display when acquiring images in the
Sequence Mode.
The XML parameters related to Stage Reset and Stage Status are as follows.
Table 9.16 XML Parameters related to Stage Reset and Stage Status
9.9.2.7 Stage Index Display
When the Stage Index Display feature is enabled in the Sequence Mode, you can output images with the
specified grey level for the (0, 0) coordinates. Thus, you can verify the order of images acquired.
For example, if the Sequence Mode parameter is set to Mono4Frame, the grey level for the (0, 0) coordinate of
the first image is ‘0’, the grey level for the (0, 0) coordinate of the second image is ‘1’, the grey level for the (0, 0)
coordinate of the third image is ‘2’, and the grey level for the (0, 0) coordinate of the fourth image is ‘3’.
The XML parameter related to Stage Index Display is as follows.
Table 9.17 XML Parameters related to Stage Index Display
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XML Parameters
Description
DeviceControl
DeviceTemperature
Displays device temperature in Celsius.
9.10 Temperature Monitor
The camera has an embedded sensor chip to monitor the internal temperature.
The XML parameter related to Device Temperature is as follows.
Table 9.18 XML Parameter related to Device Temperature
9.11 Status LED
A LED is installed on the back panel of the camera to inform the operation status of the camera. LED status and
corresponding camera status are as follows:
Steady Red: Camera is not initialized.
Slow Flashing Red: A CXP link is not configured.
Fast Flashing Orange: Camera is checking a CXP link configuration.
Steady Green: A CXP link is configured.
Fast Flashing Green: Camera is transmitting image data.
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
ImageFormatControl
TestPattern
Off
Test Pattern Off
GreyHorizontalRamp
Sets to Grey Horizontal Ramp.
GreyDiagonalRamp
Sets to Grey Diagonal Ramp.
GreyDiagonalRampMoving
Sets to Grey Diagonal Ramp Moving.
9.12 Test Pattern
To check normal operation of the camera, it can be set to output test patterns created inside, instead of image
data from the imaging sensor. There are three types of test pattern; image with different value in horizontal
direction (Grey Horizontal Ramp), image with different value in diagonal direction (Grey Diagonal Ramp), and
moving image with different value in diagonal direction (Grey Diagonal Ramp Moving).
The XML parameter related to Test Pattern is as follows.
Table 9.19 XML Parameter related to Test Pattern
Figure 9.15 Grey Horizontal Ramp
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The test pattern may look different because the region of the test pattern may vary depending
on the camera’s resolution.
Figure 9.16 Grey Diagonal Ramp
Figure 9.17 Grey Diagonal Ramp Moving
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
DigitalIOControl
LineSelector
LineIn0
Selects the number 1 pin of the camera’s control I/O
receptacle as an input line.
LineOut0
Selects the number 4 pin of the camera’s control I/O
receptacle as an output line.
LineInverter
On
Enables inversion on the output signal of the line.
Off
Disables inversion on the output signal of the line.
Line Source
Off
Disables the line output.
Frame Active
Outputs pulse signals indicating a frame readout time.
Strobe Out
Outputs pulse signal indicating the current exposure
time with Strobe Out Delay.
User Output
Outputs User Output signal set by User Output Value.
UserOutputValue
On
Sets the bit state of the line to High.
Off
Sets the bit stage of the line to Low.
StrobeOutDelay
0 ~ 65535
Sets a delay in microseconds when the Line Source is
set to Strobe Out.
9.13 Digital IO Control
The control I/O receptacle of the camera can be operated in various modes.
The XML parameters related to Digital IO Control are as follows.
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Table 9.20 Digital IO Control
VN CXP series
When you use the Strobe Out signal, be aware that there is a Strobe Out delay as shown in the
Table 9.21.
Camera Model
Strobe Out Start Delay
VN-25MX
≤ 0.8 ㎲
The camera can provide a Strobe Out output signal. The signal goes high when the exposure time for each
frame acquisition begins and goes low when the exposure time ends as shown in the figure below. This signal
can be used as a flash trigger and is also useful when you are operating a system where either the camera or
the object being imaged is movable. Typically, you do not want the camera to move during exposure. You can
monitor the Strobe Out signal to know when exposure is taking place and thus know when to avoid moving the
camera.
Figure 9.18 Strobe Out Signal
Table 9.21 Strobe Out Start Delay
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
FanControl
FanOperationMode
Off
Turns off the fan.
On
Turns on the fan.
Temperature
Turns on the fan when the internal temperature
exceeds the value set in the Fan Operation
Temperature parameter.
FanOperationTemperature
-10℃~80℃
Sets the temperature to operate the fan when the
Fan Operation Mode parameter is set to
Temperature.
FanSpeed
-
Verifies the current Fan RPM.
XML Parameters
Description
DeviceControl
DeviceUserID
Inputs user defined information (16 bytes).
XML Parameters
Description
DeviceControl
DeviceReset
Resets the camera physically.
9.14 Fan Control
A fan is installed on the rear panel of the camera to radiate heat. You can set the fan to turn on or off. You can
also set the fan to turn on when a specified internal temperature is reached.
The XML parameters related to Fan Control are as follows.
Table 9.22 XML Parameters related to Fan Control
9.15 Device User ID
You can input user defined information up to 16 bytes.
The XML parameter related to Device User ID is as follows.
Table 9.23 XML Parameter related to Device User ID
9.16 Device Reset
Reset the camera physically to power off and on. You must configure a link again because the camera will be
released from the link between the camera and CXP Frame Grabber after reset.
The XML parameter related to Device Reset is as follows.
Table 9.24 XML Parameter related to Device Reset
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XML Parameters
Value
Description
UserSetControl
UserSetSelector
Default
Selects the Factory Default settings.
UserSet1
Selects the User Set1 settings.
UserSet2
Selects the User Set2 settings.
UserSetLoad
-
Loads the User Set specified by User Set Selector
to the camera.
UserSetSave
-
Saves the current settings to the User Set specified
by User Set Selector.
The Default is a Factory Default Settings and
allowed to load only.
UserSetDefault
Default
Applies the Factory Default settings when reset.
UserSet1
Applies the User Set1 when reset.
UserSet2
Applies the User Set2 when reset.
9.17 User Set Control
You can save the current camera settings to the camera’s internal ROM. You can also load the camera settings
from the camera’s internal ROM. The camera provides two setups to save and three setups to load settings.
The XML parameters related to User Set Control are as follows.
Table 9.25 XML Parameters related to User Set Control
9.18 Field Upgrade
The camera provides a feature to upgrade Firmware and FPGA logic through CoaXPress interface rather than
disassemble the camera in the field. Refer to Appendix B for more details on how to upgrade.
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10 Troubleshooting
When you have a problem with a Vieworks camera, please check the following items.
If no image is displayed on your computer,
Ensure that all the cable connections are secure.
Ensure that the power supply is properly connected.
Ensure that trigger signal is applied correctly when you set the Trigger Mode parameter to On.
If images are not clear,
Ensure the camera lens or glass is clean.
Check the lens aperture is adjusted properly.
If images are dark,
Ensure your camera lens is not blocked.
Check the exposure time is set properly.
Check the aperture is opened properly.
Check the Gain value is not set too small.
If you identify abnormal operation or overheating sign,
Ensure the power supply is properly connected.
Stop using the camera when you notice smoke or abnormal overheating.
If you have a problem using the Trigger Mode,
Ensure that the Software trigger related parameters are configured correctly.
Ensure that the trigger related parameters on your CXP Frame Grabber are configured correctly when
you set the Trigger Source parameter to CXPin.
Ensure that cable connections are secure when you set the Trigger Source parameter to LineIn0.
If there is a communication failure between the camera and computer,
Ensure coax cables are connected properly.
Ensure that you have configured a CXP Frame Grabber in your computer correctly and the camera is
connected properly to the CXP Frame Grabber.
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Appendix A Defective Pixel Map Download
1. Create the Defect Pixel Map data in Microsoft Excel format as shown in the left picture below and save as a
CSV file (*.csv). The picture in the right shows the created Excel file opened in Notepad. The following rules
need to be applied when creating the file.
Lines beginning with ‘:’ or ‘—‘ are treated as notes.
Each row is produced in the order of the horizontal and vertical coordinate values.
The input sequence of pixel is irrelevant.
2. Run Vieworks Imaging Solution 7.X and click the Configure button to display the window as shown below.
Select the Defect tab, click the File Path button, search and select the defect pixel map file (*.csv), and then
click the Download button.
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3. Once the download is complete, the saving process will begin. During the saving process, make sure not to
disconnect the power cord.
4. After completing the download, click the OK button to close the confirmation.
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Appendix B Field Upgrade
B.1 MCU
1. Run Vieworks Imaging Solution 7.X and click the Configure button to display the window as shown below.
2. Select the MCU tab, click the File Path button, search and select the MCU upgrade file (*.srec), and then
click the Download button.
3. MCU upgrade file download starts and the downloading status is displayed at the bottom of the window.
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4. Once all the processes have been completed, turn the camera power off and turn it back on again.
Check the Device Version parameter value to confirm the version.
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B.2 FPGA
1. Run Vieworks Imaging Solution 7.X and click the Configure button to display the window as shown below.
2. Select the FPGA tab, click the File Path button, search and select the FPGA upgrade file (*.fpga), and then
click the Download button.
3. The subsequent processes are identical to those of MCU upgrade.
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B.3 XML
1. Run Vieworks Imaging Solution 7.X and click the Configure button to display the window as shown below.
2. Select the XML tab, click the File Path button, search and select the XML upgrade file (*.zip), and then click
the Download button.
3. The subsequent processes are identical to those of MCU upgrade.
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Order
Mono4Frame
Mono9Frame
Mono2FrameH
Mono2FrameV
Bayer4Frame
Bayer16Frame
X Y X Y X Y X Y X Y X Y 1
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 2 1/2 0 1/3 0 1/2 0 0
1/2 1 0 1 0 3 0
1/2
2/3 0 - - - - 0 1 0
1 4 1/2
1/2 0 1/3 - - - - 1 1 1 1 5 - - 1/3
1/3 - - - - - -
1/2
0 6 - - 2/3
1/3 - - - - - -
3/2
0 7 - - 0
2/3 - - - - - -
1/2
1 8 - - 1/3
2/3 - - - - - -
3/2
1 9 - - 2/3
2/3 - - - - - - 0 1/2
10
- - - - - - - - - - 1
1/2
11
- - - - - - - - - - 0
3/2
12
- - - - - - - - - - 1
3/2
13
- - - - - - - - - - 1/2
1/2
14
- - - - - - - - - - 3/2
1/2
15
- - - - - - - - - - 1/2
3/2
16
- - - - - - - - - - 3/2
3/2
Appendix C Position settings according to sequence modes
Ratio for 1 Pixel
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http://www.vieworks.com
vieworks@vieworks.com
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