Sepera Camexpert

Falcon 1.
4M100
1.4 Megapixel 100 fps CMOS Area Scan Cameras
Camera User’s Manual

FA-20-01M1H
1-Apr-09
03-032-20024-01
www.dalsa.com
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

2 Falcon 1.4M100 Camera Manual
© 2009 DALSA. All information provided in this manual is believed to be accurate and reliable. No
responsibility is assumed by DALSA for its use. DALSA reserves the right to make changes to this
information without notice. Reproduction of this manual in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited
without prior permission having been obtained from DALSA.
About DALSA
DALSA is an international high performance semiconductor and electronics company that designs,
develops, manufactures, and markets digital imaging products and solutions, in addition to providing
semiconductor products and services. DALSA’s core competencies are in specialized integrated circuit
and electronics technology, software, and highly engineered semiconductor wafer processing. Products
and services include image sensor components; electronic digital cameras; vision processors; image
processing software; and semiconductor wafer foundry services for use in MEMS, high-voltage
semiconductors, image sensors and mixed-signal CMOS chips. DALSA is listed on the Toronto Stock
Exchange under the symbol “DSA”. The Company has its corporate offices in Waterloo, ON and over
1000 employees worldwide.
For further information not included in this manual, or for information on DALSA’s extensive line of
image sensing products, please call:
DALSA Sales Offices
Waterloo Europe Asia Pacific

605 McMurray Rd Breslauer Str. 34 Ikebukuro East 13F
Waterloo, ON D-82194 Gröbenzell (Munich) 3-4-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro
Canada Germany Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013
N2V 2E9 Tel: +49 - 8142 – 46770 Japan
Tel: 519 886 6000 Fax: +49 - 8142 – 467746 Tel: 81 3 5960 6353
Fax: 519 886 8023 www.dalsa.com Fax: 81 3 5960 6354 (fax)
www.dalsa.com [email protected] www.dalsa.com
[email protected] [email protected]
DALSA Worldwide Operations

Waterloo Europe Asia Pacific
605 McMurray Rd Breslauer Str. 34 Ikebukuro East 13F
Waterloo, ON N2V 2E9 D-82194 Gröbenzell (Munich) 3-4-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro
Canada Germany Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013
Tel: 519 886 6000 Tel: +49 - 8142 – 46770 Japan
Fax: 519 886 8023 Fax: +49 - 8142 – 467746 Tel: 81 3 5960 6353
www.dalsa.com www.dalsa.com Fax: 81 3 5960 6354 (fax)
[email protected] [email protected] www.dalsa.com
[email protected]
Camera Link is a trademark registered by the Automated Imaging Association, as chair of a committee of
industry members including DALSA.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Falcon 1.4M100 Camera Manual 3
Contents
Introduction to the Falcon 1.4M100 Camera________________________________________7
1.1 Camera Highlights ............................................................................................................... 7
1.1.1 Features ................................................................................................................. 7
1.1.2 Programmability...................................................................................................... 8
1.1.3 Description.............................................................................................................. 8
1.1.4 Applications ............................................................................................................ 8
1.2 Camera Performance Specifications ................................................................................... 9
1.3 Responsivity and Quantum Efficiency ................................................................................. 11
1.4 Camera Cosmetic Specifications......................................................................................... 12
1.4.1 Sensor Cosmetic Specifications ............................................................................. 12
1.4.2 Cosmetic Specification ........................................................................................... 13
Camera Hardware Interface ____________________________________________________15

2.1 Installation Overview............................................................................................................ 15
2.2 Input/Output Connectors and LED....................................................................................... 16
2.2.1 LED Status Indicator............................................................................................... 17
2.2.2 Camera Link Data Connector ................................................................................. 17
2.2.3 Input Signals, Camera Link .................................................................................... 19
2.2.4 Output Signals, Camera Link.................................................................................. 19
2.2.5 Power Connector.................................................................................................... 20
Sapera CamExpert Guide ______________________________________________________21

3.1 Using CamExpert with Falcon Cameras.............................................................................. 21
3.1.1 CamExpert User Interface ...................................................................................... 22
3.1.2 CamExpert LUT Controls ....................................................................................... 23
Software Interface: How to Control the Camera _____________________________________25

4.1 Setting Baud Rate................................................................................................................ 26
4.2 Camera Serial Command Help Screen................................................................................ 26
4.3 Retrieving Information About the Camera ........................................................................... 28
4.3.1 Retrieving Camera Settings.................................................................................... 28
4.4 First Power Up Camera Settings ......................................................................................... 29
4.4.1 FA-20-01M1H......................................................................................................... 29
4.5 Saving and Restoring Settings............................................................................................. 29
4.5.1 Factory Settings...................................................................................................... 29
4.5.2 User Settings .......................................................................................................... 30
4.6 Camera Output Format........................................................................................................ 31
4.6.1 How to Configure Camera Output .......................................................................... 31
4.6.2 Setting the Camera’s Pixel Rate............................................................................. 33
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.7 Setting Exposure Mode, Frame Rate and Exposure Time .................................................. 33
4.7.1 Non-Concurrent vs. Concurrent Modes of Operation ............................................. 33
4.7.2 Setting the Exposure Mode and Time .................................................................... 35
4.7.3 Exposure Modes in Detail....................................................................................... 38
4.7.4 Setting the Frame Rate .......................................................................................... 41
4.8 Setting a Vertical Window of Interest................................................................................... 42
4.8.1 Frame Rate vs. Active Lines................................................................................... 42
4.9 Flat Field Correction ............................................................................................................ 44
4.9.1 CamExpert Calibration Wizard ............................................................................... 47
4.9.2 Selecting Factory or User Coefficients ................................................................... 48
4.9.3 Enabling Pixel Coefficients ..................................................................................... 48
4.9.4 Selecting the Calibration Sample Size.................................................................... 49
4.9.5 Performing FPN Calibration.................................................................................... 50
4.9.6 Performing PRNU Calibration................................................................................. 52
4.9.7 Saving, Loading and Resetting Coefficients........................................................... 53
4.10 Gain Adjustments ................................................................................................................ 56
4.10.1 Factory Calibrated Analog Gains.......................................................................... 56
4.10.2 Setting Digital System Gain.................................................................................. 56
4.10.3 Subtracting Background ....................................................................................... 57
4.11 Generating a Test Pattern ................................................................................................... 58
Optical and Mechanical Considerations ___________________________________________61

5.1 Mechanical Interface............................................................................................................ 61
5.2 Lens Mounts ........................................................................................................................ 62
5.3 Optical Interface................................................................................................................... 63
5.3.1 Illumination ............................................................................................................. 63
5.3.2 Light Sources.......................................................................................................... 63
5.3.3 Filters...................................................................................................................... 63
5.3.4 Lens Modeling ........................................................................................................ 63
5.3.5 Magnification and Resolution ................................................................................. 64
Troubleshooting _____________________________________________________________65
6.1 Common Solutions .............................................................................................................. 65
6.1.1 Connections............................................................................................................ 65
6.2 Troubleshooting Using the Serial Interface.......................................................................... 66
6.2.1 Communications..................................................................................................... 66
6.2.2 Verify Parameters................................................................................................... 66
6.2.3 Verify Factory Calibrated Settings .......................................................................... 66
6.2.4 Verify Timing and Digital Video Path ...................................................................... 66
6.3 Specific Solutions................................................................................................................. 66
6.3.1 No Output or Erratic Behavior ................................................................................ 66
6.3.2 Line Dropout, Bright Lines, or Incorrect Frame rate ............................................... 66
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

6.3.3 Noisy Output........................................................................................................... 67

6.3.4 Dark Patches .......................................................................................................... 67
6.4 Product Support................................................................................................................... 68
Appendix A _________________________________________________________________69
Camera Link™ Reference, Timing, and Configuration Table ___________________________69

LVDS Technical Description................................................................................................................ 69
Camera Signal Requirements ............................................................................................................. 69
Video Data........................................................................................................................................... 69
Camera Control Signals ...................................................................................................................... 70
Communication.................................................................................................................................... 70
Camera Link Video Timing .................................................................................................................. 71
Bit Assignments According to Configuration........................................................................................ 72
Appendix B _________________________________________________________________73
Error Handling and Command List _______________________________________________73

All Available Commands...................................................................................................................... 73
Appendix C _________________________________________________________________77
EMC Declaration of Conformity ........................................................................................................... 77
Appendix D _________________________________________________________________78
Revision History................................................................................................................................... 78
Index ______________________________________________________________________79
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

03-032-20024-01 DALSA

1
Introduction to the Falcon
1.4M100 Camera
1.1 Camera Highlights
1.1.1 Features
• 1.4 megapixels, 1400(H) x 1024(V) resolution
• Global shutter (non-rolling shutter) for crisp images
• 100 fps model
• Compact camera body – 44mm x 44mm x 44mm – fits into the smallest of places
• Base mini-Camera Link™ SDR26 cable interface for greater ease of use
• Enhanced data drive capability – Achieves 80MHz data with 10m cables
• Vertical windowing for faster frame rate
• 7.4µm x 7.4µm pixel pitch
• Good near-infrared (NIR) response
• 2x80MHz data rates
• 8 or 10 bit selectable output
• Dynamic range of 57dB

1.1.2 Programmability
• Simple ASCII protocol controls gain, offset, frame rates, trigger mode, test pattern
output, and camera diagnostics
• Serial interface (ASCII, 9600 baud, adjustable to 19200, 57600, 115200), through
Camera Link
1.1.3 Description
The Falcon 1.4M100 camera provides 1.4 megapixel image capture at high frame rates of
100fps. The global shutter capability of the sensor makes this camera capable of capturing
low smear images at incredibly fast rates. Its small camera body and mini-Camera Link™
cabling allows the camera to fit into space-constrained applications. With its enhanced
data drive capability, mini-Camera Link cables up to 10m in length can be used.
Programmable features and diagnostics are accessible through the mini-Camera Link
SDR26 connector.
1.1.4 Applications
The Falcon 1.4M100 camera is ideal for applications requiring high speed, superior image
quality, and high responsivity, in space constrained areas. These features make the Falcon
1.4M100 applicable to:
• PCB-AOI inspection
• Semiconductor wafer inspection
• Electronics inspection
• Flat panel display inspection
• Industrial metrology
• Traffic management
• General machine vision
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

1.2 Camera Performance Specifications

Feature / Specification Units Notes
Resolution pixels 1400Hx1024V
Effective fill factor with % 60
microlenses
Output Format (# of taps) 2 Tap Interleaved
(odd/even)
Optical Interface Units Notes

Back Focal Distance
Sensor die to mounting mm 17.52 4
plate
Sensor Alignment
x mm +/- 100 microns
y mm +/- 100 microns
z mm +/- 150 microns
θz ° +/- 0.2
Lens Mount C-mount
Units Notes
Camera Size mm 44 x 44 x 44
Mass g 105g
Connectors
power connector 6 pin male Hirose
data connector SDR26 female – mini
Camera Link
Electrical Interface Units Notes

Input Voltage Volts +12V to 15V
Power Dissipation W <3
Operating Temperature °C 0 to 50 1
Data Output Format Bits 8 or 10 user selectable
Output Data Configuration Base mini-Camera Link
Operating Ranges Units Notes

Minimum Frame Rate Hz 0
Maximum Frame Rate Hz 100
Data Rate MHz 2 @ 80
Dynamic Range Ratio 602:1 2
(10 bits @ nominal gain)
Random Noise DN rms 1.7
2
Broadband Responsivity DN/(nJ/cm ) 12
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Operating Ranges Units Notes

DC Offset DN 1 5
Antiblooming >1000 x Saturation
FPN DN rms 1.2 5
PRNU DN rms 4 5, 6
Integral non-linearity DN < 2% 3
Test conditions unless otherwise noted:

• Exposure mode 2 (sem 2)
• 100 fps (ssf 100)
• 9000 millisecond exposure time (set 9000)
• Light Source: Broadband Quartz Halogen, 3250K, with 750 nm cutoff filter
• Ambient test temperature 25°C
• Full Frame
• 10 bits
Notes:
• Measured at the front plate.
• Based on output at 1023DN
• Output over 10-90%
• Optical distance.
• Flat-field correction applied with 9000 ms exposure at 50 fps in sem 2
• At 80% of camera saturation, 1x digital gain
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

1.3 Responsivity and Quantum Efficiency

The responsivity graph describes the sensor response to different wavelengths of light
(excluding lens and light source characteristics). Visible light spans wavelengths between
390-780 nanometers. Wavelengths below 390 nm are ultra-violet while those above 780
nm are termed infra-red.
Falcon 1.4M100 Responsivity Curve
14.0
12.0
Responsivity (DN/(nJ/cm²)
10.0
8.0
6.0
4.0
2.0
0.0
400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
Wavelength (nm)
The quantum efficiency graph describes the fraction of photons at each wavelength that
contribute charge to the pixel.
Falcon 1.4M100 QE Curve
70.0%
60.0%
Quantum Efficiency (QE)
50.0%
40.0%
30.0%
20.0%
10.0%
0.0%
400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
Wavelength (nm)
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

1.4 Camera Cosmetic Specifications

1.4.1 Sensor Cosmetic Specifications
The following table highlights the current cosmetic specifications for the DALSA sensor
inside the Falcon 1.4M100 camera. The monochrome sensor has 1.4 megapixels (1400 x
1024) and global shuttering.
Blemish Specifications Maximum Number of Defects
Hot pixel defects 1
Single pixel defects 100
Clusters defects No limit (see note)
Spot defects 0
Column defects 0
Row defects 0
Definition of cosmetic specifications

Hot pixel defect
• Pixel whose signal, in dark, deviates by more than 400DN (10-bits) from its
neighboring pixels.
Single pixel defect
• Pixel whose signal, at nominal light (illumination at 50% of the linear range), deviates
by more than ±30% from its neighboring pixels.
Cluster defect
• A grouping of at most 5 pixel defects within an area of 3*3 pixels.
Spot defect
• A grouping of more than 5 pixel defects within an area of 3*3 pixels.
Column defect
• A column which has more than 8 pixel defects in a 1*12 kernel.
• Column defects must be horizontally separated by 3 good columns.
Row defect
• A horizontal grouping of more than 3 pixel defects between at least 2 good pixels on
both sides, where single good pixels between 2 defective pixels are considered as
defective.
Test conditions
• Digital gain – 1X.
• Nominal light = illumination at 50% of saturation.
• Frame Rate = 100fps
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

• Integration time = 9ms
• Temperature of camera front plate is 25°C
Note: While the number of clusters is not limited by a maximum number, the total
number of defective pixels cannot exceed 100. Therefore, you could have 20 clusters of 5
pixels in size (20 x 5 = 100), but you could not have 21 clusters of 5 in size (21 x 5 = 105).
(The probability of 21 clusters of 5 is negligible and is only used as an example.)
1.4.2 Cosmetic Specification

Beyond sensor cosmetic testing, the camera is placed under additional testing to more
closely examine potential cosmetic defects due to the sensor glass.
Blemish Maximum % deviation Size Maximum Number
Specifications below the mean of Defects
Glass defects 8% 12 0
Definition of cosmetic specifications

Glass defects
• A group of pixels exceeding the maximum % deviation below the mean and the
cluster size specifications. Images are taken at nominal light (illumination at 50% of
the linear range).
In addition, the camera is examined for the following blemish defects.

Blemish Specifications Maximum
Number of
Defects
Hot pixel defects 1
Single pixel defects 100
Test conditions
• Digital gain – 1X.
• Nominal light = illumination at 50% of saturation.
• Frame Rate = 100fps
• Integration time = 9ms
• Temperature of camera front plate is 25°C
Note: All of the above sensor and camera cosmetic specifications are with flat-field
correction turned off (epc 0 0). There are no post flat-field (epc 1 1) camera cosmetic
specifications.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

03-032-20024-01 DALSA

2
Camera Hardware Interface
2.1 Installation Overview
When setting up your camera, you should take these steps:
This installation 1. Power down all equipment.

overview assumes
you have not 2. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, install the frame grabber (if applicable). Be
installed any system sure to observe all static precautions.
components yet.
3. Install any necessary imaging software.
4. Before connecting power to the camera, test all power supplies.
5. Inspect all cables and connectors prior to installation. Do not use damaged cables or
connectors or camera may be damaged.
6. Connect the mini-Camera Link and power cables.
7. After connecting cables, apply power to the camera.
8. Check the diagnostic LED. If camera is operating correctly, the LED will flash for 10
seconds and then turn solid green. See the section 2.2.1 LED Status Indicator on page
17 for a description of LED states.
You must also set up the other components of your system, including light sources,
camera mounts, computers, optics, encoders, and so on.
Note: when unscrewing the mini-Camera Link cable from the Falcon camera, ensure the
connector mounting screws do not become attached to the cable thumbscrews; in this
case, simply screw the connector mounting screw back into the camera connector
mounting.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

A note on Camera Link cable quality and length
The maximum allowable Camera Link cable length depends on the quality of the cable
used and the Camera Link strobe frequency. Cable quality degrades over time as the
cable is flexed. As the Camera Link strobe frequency is increased, the maximum
allowable cable length will decrease.
DALSA does not guarantee good imaging performance with low quality cables of any
length. In general, DALSA recommends the use of high quality cables in lengths less than
10 meters.
2.2 Input/Output Connectors and LED

The camera uses:
• A diagnostic LED for monitoring the camera. See the section 2.2.1 LED Status
Indicator on page 17 for details.
• One high-density 26-pin SDR26 connector for Camera Link control signals, data
signals, and serial communications. Refer to section 2.2.2 Camera Link Data
Connector on page 17 for details.
• One 6-pin Hirose connector for power. Refer to section 2.2.5 Power Connector on
page 20 for details.
Hirose
Diagnostic
Power Input
LED
+12V
Mini-Camera Link
SDR26
Connector
Input/Output Connectors
WARNING: Ensure that all the correct voltages at full load are present at the camera end
of the power (irrespective of cable length) according to the pinout defined in section 2.2.5
Power Connector on page 20. A common system problem is that the voltage drop across
the power cable is large enough that the voltage at the camera does not meet the power
input voltage specifications.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

2.2.1 LED Status Indicator

The camera is equipped with an LED to display the operational status of the camera. The
table below summarizes the operating states of the camera and the corresponding LED
states.
When more than one condition is active, the LED indicates the condition with the highest
priority. Error and warning states are accompanied by corresponding messages further
describing the current camera status.
Color of Status LED Meaning
Off Hardware malfunction or no power
Flashing Red (1 Hz) Fatal error. Non-recoverable error (such as overheating).
Flashing Red (4 Hz) Loading backup firmware
Solid Red Warning. Loss of functionality. Operating condition out of
specified range.
Flashing Blue (1 Hz) Ready to download/Downloading files. Used for
firmware update, LUT and FFC coefficients download.
Flashing Blue (4 Hz) Writing to flash memory, do not power off. Used during
firmware update and write user settings.
Flashing Green (1 Hz) Camera initialization or executing a long command. LED
shall flash green at least once each time a serial command
is received.
Solid Green Camera is operational and functioning correctly. Typically
outputting images in free-running mode (internal sync,
mode 2).
2.2.2 Camera Link Data Connector

SDR26 Female
13 1
26 14
Mini-Camera Link SDR26 Connector
The Camera Link interface is implemented as a Base Configuration in the Falcon cameras.
You select the camera configuration with the clm command described in section 4.7
Setting Exposure Mode, Frame Rate and Exposure Time on page 33.
The following tables provide this camera’s principal Camera Link information. See
Appendix A for the complete DALSA Camera Link configuration table, and refer to the
DALSA Web site, www.dalsa.com, for the official Camera Link documents.
Camera Link Hardware Configuration Summary

Configuration 8 Bit Ports Serializer Number Number of
Supported Bit Width of Chips SDR26
Connectors
Base A, B, C 28 1 1
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

BASE Port Definition

Configuration
Mode (set with Port A Port B Port C
clm command) Bits 0 thru 7 Bits 0 thru 7 Bits 0 thru 7
Mode 2 Tap 1 LSB...Bit 7 Tap 2 LSB...Bit7 xxxxxxx
2 Tap 8 bit
Mode 3 Tap 1 LSB… Bit 7 Tap 1 Bits 8,9 Tap 2 LSB..Bit 7
2 Tap 10 bit Tap 2 Bits 8,9
Camera Link Connector Pinout

Base Configuration
One Channel Link Chip + Camera Control + Serial Communication
Camera Right Angle Frame Grabber Channel Link
Connector Connector Signal
1 1 inner shield
14 14 inner shield
2 25 X0-
15 12 X0+
3 24 X1-
16 11 X1+
4 23 X2-
17 10 X2+
5 22 Xclk-
18 9 Xclk+
6 21 X3-
19 8 X3+
7 20 SerTC+
20 7 SerTC-
8 19 SerTFG-
21 6 SerTFG+
9 18 CC1-
22 5 CC1+
10 17 CC2+
23 4 CC2-
11 16 CC3-
24 3 CC3+
12 15 CC4+
25 2 CC4-
13 13 inner shield
26 26 inner shield
Notes:
*Exterior Overshield is connected to the shells of the connectors on both ends.
**3M part 14X26-SZLB-XXX-0LC is a complete cable assembly, including connectors.
Unused pairs should be terminated in 100 ohms at both ends of the cable.
Inner shield is connected to signal ground inside camera
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

DALSA Camera Control Configuration

Signal Configuration
CC1 EXSYNC
CC2 Reserved for future use
2.2.3 Input Signals, Camera Link

The camera accepts control inputs through the Camera Link SDR26F connector. The
camera ships in internal sync, internal programmed integration (exposure mode 2), and
Camera Link mode 2.
EXSYNC
The EXSYNC signal tells the camera when to integrate and readout the image. It can be
either an internally generated signal by the camera, or it can be supplied externally via
the serial interface. Depending upon the mode of operation the high time of the EXSYNC
signal can represent the integration period.
Section 4.7 Setting Exposure Mode, Frame Rate and Exposure Time on page 33 details
how to set frame times, exposure times, and camera modes.
2.2.4 Output Signals, Camera Link

These signals indicate when data is valid, allowing you to clock the data from the camera
to your acquisition system. These signals are part of the Camera Link configuration and
you should refer to the DALSA Camera Link Implementation Road Map, available at
www.dalsa.com, for the standard location of these signals.
Camera Link Clocking Signals
Clocking Signal Indicates
LVAL (high) Outputting valid line
DVAL (high) Valid data
STROBE (rising edge) Valid data
FVAL (high) Outputting valid frame
• The camera internally digitizes to 10 bits and outputs the 8 most significant bits
(MSB’s) or all 10 bits depending on the camera’s Camera Link operating mode.
• For a Camera Link reference and timing definitions refer to Appendix A on page 69.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

2.2.5 Power Connector

Hirose 6-pin Circular Male Hirose Pin Description
Pin Description Pin Description
1 6 1 12 to 15V 4 GND
2 12 to 15V 5 GND
2 5
3 12 to 15V 6 GND
3 4
Mating Part: HIROSE HR10A-7P-6S
The camera requires a single voltage input (12 to 15V). Ensure you measure a minimum
of 12V at the camera power connector and not at the power supply. The voltage drop
across power cables can be large enough to supply too low of a voltage to the camera for
it to operate properly.
! WARNING: When setting up the camera’s power supplies follow these guidelines:
• Protect the camera with a fast-blow fuse between power supply and camera.
• Power surge limit at 500 mA.
• 12 V power supply. Nominal 0 to 3A load resulting in ~20 A/s current ramp rate
• Power supply current limit needs to be set at >2 A.
• Do not use the shield on a multi-conductor cable for ground.
• Keep leads as short as possible to reduce voltage drop. Long power supply leads may
falsely indicate that the power supply is within the recommended voltage range even
when the camera at the connector is actually being supplied with much less voltage.
• Use high-quality linear supplies to minimize noise.
• Use an isolated type power supply to prevent LVDS common mode range violation.
Note: Performance specifications are not guaranteed if your power supply does not meet
these requirements.
! WARNING: It is extremely important that you apply the appropriate voltages to your
camera. Incorrect voltages will damage the camera. Protect the camera with a fast-
blow fuse between power supply and camera.
Visit the www.dalsa.com Web site for a list of companies that make power supplies that
meet the camera’s requirements. The companies listed should not be considered the only
choices.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

3
Sapera CamExpert Guide
3.1 Using CamExpert with Falcon Cameras
CamExpert is the camera interfacing tool supported by the Sapera library. When used
with a Falcon camera, CamExpert allows a user to test all Falcon operating modes.
Additionally CamExpert saves the Falcon user settings configuration to the camera or
saves multiple configurations as individual camera parameter files on the host system
(*.ccf).
An important component of CamExpert is its live acquisition display window which

allows immediate verification of timing or control parameters without the need to run a
separate acquisition program.
For context sensitive help, click on the button then click on a camera configuration
parameter. A short description of the configuration parameter will be shown in a popup.
Click on the button to open the help file for more descriptive information on
CamExpert.
The central section of CamExpert provides access to the Falcon parameters. Five tabs
group Falcon parameters depending on their type as described in the summary below.
Each Falcon configuration parameter is described in detail following the summary.
Camera Information Displays Falcon firmware details such as camera model, version, and serial number.
Users can set the User ID and set the power‐up configuration mode.
Camera Control Displays both static and variable sensor parameters that are Falcon model specific.
Variable parameters control Falcon exposure, gain and exposure controls. The internal
test image is selected here.
External Trigger Provides controls for trigger source and detection configuration.
Image Buffer and ROI Provides controls for buffer pixel depth, image size and cropping.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

3.1.1 CamExpert User Interface
The CamExpert application uses 5 windows to simplify choosing and configuring camera
files or acquisition parameters for the installed device.
• Device pane: View and select from any installed Sapera acquisition device. After a
device is selected, CamExpert only presents acquisition parameters applicable to that
device.
• Camera Information Parameters pane: Allows viewing or changing all acquisition
parameters supported by the acquisition device. CamExpert displays parameters only
if those parameters are supported by the installed device. This avoids confusion by
eliminating parameter choices when they do not apply to the hardware in use.
• Display pane: Provides a live or single frame acquisition display. Frame buffer
parameters are shown in an information bar above the image window.
• Control Buttons: The Display pane includes CamExpert control buttons. These are:
Acquisition control button:
Click once to start live grab, click again to stop.
Single frame grab:
Click to acquire one frame from device.
Software trigger button:
With the I/O control parameters set to Trigger Enabled /
Software Trigger type, click to send a single software trigger
command.
CamExpert display controls:
(these do not modify the frame buffer data)
Stretch image to fit, set image display to original size, or zoom
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

the image to any size and ratio.
Histogram / Profile tool:
Select to view a histogram or line/column profile during live
acquisition.
• Camera pane: Allows selecting any camera file that is included with the Sapera
installation. Only camera files supported by the selected acquisition device are
displayed. When there is more than one acquisition server, such as monochrome and
RGB, selecting an inappropriate camera file will produce a message prompting you to
select the correct acquisition server.
• Output Messages: Displays messages from CamExpert or the device driver.
• Camera Serial Link Command: Displays commands sent from CamExpert to the
Falcon camera. You can also manually enter serial commands at the command prompt
in this pane.
• Video Status bar: Located on the lower right of the CamExpert window, color coded
camera signal status information is displayed. It is green for valid signals detected,
and red for missing or incorrect signals. Video status items may differ with different
devices.

Most of these panes can be hidden via the menu bar view command. Typically after
selecting an acquisition device and loading a camera file, the Device and Camera
windows can be closed.
3.1.2 CamExpert LUT Controls

The CamExpert Lookup Table dialog allows you to configure LUTs available on your
frame grabber board.
Note: The Falcon on-board LUT can only be configured using the camera serial
commands, and not CamExpert; CamExpert configures frame grabber LUTs only (Falcon
cameras do not have on-camera LUTs).
To open this dialog, use the Pre-Processing > Lookup Table > Setting menu command.
Note that you must first enable the Lookup Table, otherwise the Setting command will be
grayed-out.
To select the type of LUT to use, click the LUT Mode Value field; a drop-down list box
displays the available modes. The Lookup Table dialog displays a graph of the input and
output values for the selected LUT. A Sapera application can program the Falcon LUT for
any required LUT operation.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

CamExpert available LUT examples are briefly described below. The LUT function
graphic simplifies understanding the operation especially when user settings modify the
LUT function.
• Normal (default): modifies all LUT entries using a linear mapping such that a gray
level input is equal to the output
• Arithmetic operation: modifies all LUT entries using an arithmetic operation
• Binary pattern: modifies some LUT entries based on a binary pattern
• Boolean operation: modifies all LUT entries using a Boolean operation
• Gamma correction: modifies all LUT entries using Gamma correction function
• Linear invert: modifies all LUT entries using a linear mapping with a negative slope
• Position shift: modifies LUT entries with a zero position offset
• Bit shift: modifies LUT entries with a binary bit shift
• Slope within range: modifies part of a LUT with a linear mapping
• Single Threshold: modifies all LUT entries using a threshold operation
• Double Threshold: modifies all LUT entries using a dual level threshold operation

03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4
Software Interface: How to
Control the Camera
In addition to using CamExpert, all camera features can be controlled through the serial
interface, which is part of the Camera Link interface standard. The camera can also be
used without the serial interface after it has been set up correctly. Functions available
include:
• Controlling basic camera functions such as gain and sync signal source
• Data readout control
• Generating a test pattern for debugging
• The serial interface uses a simple ASCII-based protocol and the camera does not
require any custom software.
Serial Protocol Defaults

• 8 data bits
• 1 stop bit
• No parity
• No flow control
• 9600 Kbps
• Camera does not echo characters
Command Format
When entering commands, remember that:
• A carriage return <CR> ends each command.

• The camera will answer each command with either <CR><LF> OK > or Error x:
Error Message >. The > is always the last character sent by the camera.
• The camera accepts both upper and lower case commands.

• The following parameter conventions are used in the manual:
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

• i = integer value
f = real number
m = member of a set. Value must be entered exactly as displayed on help screen.
s = string
t = tap id
x = pixel column number
y = pixel row number
Example: to retrieve the current camera settings

gcp <CR>
4.1 Setting Baud Rate

The baud rate sets the speed in bps of the serial communication port.
Serial Command
Purpose: Sets the speed in bps of the serial communication port.
Syntax: sbr m
Syntax Elements: m
Baud rate. Available baud rates are: 9600 (default), 19200,
57600, and 115200.
Notes: • The rc (reset camera) command will not reset the camera to
the power-on baud rate and will reboot using the last used
baud rate.
Example: sbr 57600
CamExpert Parameter
The baud rate is available as a read-only parameter on the Camera Information tab.
4.2 Camera Serial Command Help Screen

For quick help, the camera can retrieve all available serial commands and parameters
through the serial interface.
To view the help screen, use the serial command:

Syntax: h
The help screen lists all commands available. Parameter ranges displayed are the ranges
available under the current operating conditions. Note, that certain parameter settings
can limit the available range of other parameters.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Example Help Screen

ccf Correction calculate FPN
clm Set camera link mode m 2/3/ (8 bits/10 bits)
cpa Correction PRNU algorithm ii 2-2:256-1013
csn Coefficient set number i 0-1
css Calibration sample size m 32/64/128/256/512/1024/
epc Enable pixel coefficients ii 0-1:0-1
gcm Get the camera model
gcp Get the camera parameters
gcs Get the camera serial number
gcv Get the camera versions
get Get command ... s Command name
gfc Get FPN coefficient xy 1-1400:1-1024
gh Display the get help screen
gpc Get PRNU coefficient xy 1-1400:1-1024
gsf Get sync. frequency i 1-1
h Display this help screen
lpc Load pixel coefficients
rc Reset the camera
rfs Restore fact
rpc Reset pixel coefficients
rus Restore user settings
sbh Set horizontal binning i 1-2
sbr Set the UART baud rate m 9600/19200/57600/115200/
sbv Set vertical binning i 1-2
sdo Set digital offset ti 0-0:0-1023 DN
sem Set exposure mode m 2/4/6/9/10
set Set exposure time f 40-9719 (4000000 max)us
sfc Set FPN coefficient xyi 1-1400:1-1024:0-255
slc Set LUT coefficient ii 0-1023:0-1023
sle Set LUT enable i 0-1
smm Set mirroring mode i 0-1
sot Set output throughput m 80/160/ MHz
spc Set PRNU coefficient xyi 1-1400:1-1024:0-255
ssf Set sync. frequency f 0.1-101.9 Hz
ssb Set subtract background ti 0-0:0-511
ssg Set system gain ti 0-0:1024-8191
svm Set video mode i 0/4/5/6/7/8/
upd Upload CBF file
vt Verify temperature
vv Verify voltage
wfc Write FPN coefficients
wpc Write PRNU coefficients
wse Set window start end iixyxy 0-0:1-1:0-1399:
0-1023:1-1399:1-1023
wus Write user settings
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.3 Retrieving Information About the Camera

Serial Commands
To retrieve the camera model, use the command:

Syntax: gcm
To retrieve the camera serial number, use the command

Syntax: gcs
To retrieve the camera firmware version, use the command:

Syntax: gcv
CamExpert Parameters
The camera model, serial number, and firmware version are available as read-only
parameters on the Camera Information tab.
4.3.1 Retrieving Camera Settings

To retrieve current camera settings, use the serial command:
Syntax: gcp
To retrieve the value of a specific camera setting, use the command:

Purpose: Displays the value of the specified camera command.
Syntax: gcp s
Syntax Elements: S
string representing the command
Notes: “Get” supports any command that returns or specifies a setting.
Action commands such as “wus” (write user settings) are not
supported.
Example: get svm – returns the video mode the camera is currently
operating in
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4.4 First Power Up Camera Settings

When the camera is powered up for the first time, it operates using the following factory
settings:
4.4.1 FA-20-01M1H
• Flat field coefficients enabled (Factory FFC coefficients calibrated in exposure
mode 2, 10 bit, 50 fps)
• Exposure mode 2
• 100 fps
• 9000 µs exposure time
• Camera Link mode 2 (Base configuration, 2 taps, 8 bits)
• 80Mpixels/s per tap
• Full window (1400 x 1024)
4.5 Saving and Restoring Settings
rus
Factory User
Setting Setting
rfs
Current
Session
wus
Serial Commands for Saving and Restoring Settings
4.5.1 Factory Settings

You can restore the original factory settings at any time using the serial command rfs.
Note: This command does not restore flat field coefficients. Refer to lpc command.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.5.2 User Settings

You can save or restore your user settings to non-volatile memory using the following
serial commands.
• To save all current user settings to non-volatile memory, use the command wus. The
camera will automatically restore the saved user settings when powered up.
• To restore the last saved user settings, use the command rus.
Note: On power-up the camera will restore the FFC coefficients from the set indicated by
the coefficient set number (csn); either 0 (factory calibrated set) or 1 (user calibrated set).
Current Session Settings

These are the current operating settings of your camera. These settings are stored in the
camera’s volatile memory and will not be restored once you power down your camera or
issue a reset camera command (rc). To save these settings for reuse at power up, use the
command wus.
The factory and user settings can be loaded or saved using the Power-Up Configuration
dialog, available through the Power-Up Configuration parameter on the Camera
Information tab. Set 0 contains the factory settings and Set 1 contains the user settings.
Falcon Test Power-Up Configuration – on Camera Information Tab
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Falcon Test Power-Up Configuration Dialog
4.6 Camera Output Format

4.6.1 How to Configure Camera Output
The Falcon cameras offer great flexibility when configuring your camera output. Using
the clm serial command, you determine the camera’s Camera Link configuration, number
of output taps, and bit depth. Using the sot command, you determine the camera’s
output rate. These two commands work together to determine your final camera output
configuration.
Falcon Data Readout Configurations
Camera Link Mode Configuration (Controlled by clm Pixel Rate
command) Configuration
(Controlled by
sot command)
Mode Camera Link Camera Link Taps Bit
Configuration Depth
2 (clm 2) Base 2 Camera Link taps 8 40 MHz strobe
(sot 80)
80 MHz strobe
(sot 160)
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Camera Link Mode Configuration (Controlled by clm Pixel Rate

command) Configuration
(Controlled by
sot command)
Mode Camera Link Camera Link Taps Bit
Configuration Depth
3 (clm 3) Base 2 Camera Link taps 10 40 MHz strobe
(sot 80)
80 MHz strobe
(sot 160)
Serial Command
Purpose Sets the camera’s Camera Link configuration, number of Camera
Link taps and data bit depth.
Syntax: clm m
Syntax Elements: m
Output mode to use:
2: Base configuration, 2 taps, 8 bit output
3: Base configuration, 2 taps, 10 bit output
Notes: • To retrieve the current Camera Link mode, use the
command gcp
• For details on line times and frame readout times when
using a window of interest, refer to following table.
Example: clm 3
The factory and user settings can be loaded or saved using the Power-Up Configuration
dialog, available through the Power-Up Configuration parameter on the Camera
Information tab. Set 0 contains the factory settings and Set 1 contains the user settings.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4.6.2 Setting the Camera’s Pixel Rate

Serial Command
Purpose: Sets the camera’s pixel rate.
Syntax: sot m
Syntax Elements: m
80: 40 MHz pixel rate with a total throughput of 80 MHz
160: 80 MHz pixel rate with a total throughput of 160 MHz
Notes: • To retrieve the current pixel rate, use the command gcp or
get sot.
Example: sot 80
CamExpert Parameter
The camera pixel rate is available through the Output Throughput (MHz) parameter on
the Camera Control tab.
Falcon Output Throughput (MHz) – on Camera Control Tab
4.7 Setting Exposure Mode, Frame Rate and

Exposure Time
4.7.1 Non-Concurrent vs. Concurrent Modes of
Operation
One of the main benefits of global shutter CMOS devices is that you have the choice to
operate the camera where integration and readout are concurrent (that is, they overlap for
some duration) or where integration and readout are not concurrent (that is, they occur
serially). Integration is defined as the time period that the camera can be exposed to light
and is often referred to as exposure time. Readout refers to the time it takes to read out
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

every pixel from the camera. For a 100 fps camera, such as the Falcon 1.4M100, the
readout period is around 10.0ms.
Thus, a global shutter CMOS device, as found in the 1.4M100, is capable of running at
100fps even with exposure times up to 10ms. Beyond 10ms, the exposure time dominates
and the frame rate drops. With rolling shutter CMOS devices only non-concurrent modes
are possible and the integration time immediately impacts the frame rate, thus
comparable 1.4 megapixel cameras with a 10ms exposure time would only run at 50fps
with a rolling shutter device.
Concurrent mode is when the camera is integrating the current frame (Frame 1) and at
the same time is reading out the prior frame (Frame 0). By performing integration and
readout in parallel the Falcon 1.4M100 camera is capable of reaching 100fps even with
exposure times up to 10ms. A timing diagram helps to explain this mode of operation.
Concurrent Mode Timing Diagram
In concurrent mode, a low-to-high transition in the EXSYNC signal starts the integration
time, and a high-to-low transition in the EXSYNC signal starts the readout of image data.
As your frame period approaches the readout period, by reducing the Waiting time, the
Falcon 1.4M100 camera approaches its maximum frame rate of 100fps.
In non-concurrent mode the integration and readout period do not overlap
Non-concurrent Mode Timing Diagram
In non-concurrent mode, a low-to-high transition in the EXSYNC signal starts the

integration time, and a high-to-low transition in the EXSYNC signal starts the readout of
image data. This is the same as in concurrent mode. The difference between these two
modes is that you do not perform your next low-to-high transition of EXSYNC until
readout has completed. The Waiting period can be reduced to 0 seconds by starting the
low-to-high transition immediately after readout is complete. The readout time is a fixed
amount of time that is dependant upon the mode of operation of the camera, but is
typically around 10.0ms.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4.7.2 Setting the Exposure Mode and Time

You have a choice of operating in one of the following exposure modes.
Mode EXSYNC Programmable Programmable Description Concurrent/
Frame Rate Exposure Time non-
concurrent
operation
2 Internal Yes Yes, minimum Internal frame rate and Both
40µs exposure time.
4 External No No, minimum Smart EXSYNC. High Both
40µs time is the exposure
time.
6 External No Yes, minimum Falling EXSYNC initiates Both
40µs integration. Exposure
time is programmed into
the camera.
9 External No No, minimum Smart EXSYNC. High Non-
10µs time is the exposure concurrent
time. only
10 External No Yes, minimum 7µs Falling EXSYNC initiates Non-
integration. Exposure concurrent
time is programmed into only
the camera.
Non-concurrent mode occurs when integration and readout are performed serially. In
concurrent mode integration and readout can overlap.
To set the exposure time, the camera must be operating in exposure mode 2, 6 or 10. If
you enter an exposure time outside of a valid range, the input will be clipped to the min
or max.
If you enter an exposure time which overlaps with the frame readout, the exposure time
will automatically adjust to integral units of exposure time increments. The camera sends
a warning when this occurs.
To select how you want the camera’s frame rate to be generated:
1. You must first set the camera’s exposure mode.
2. Next, depending on the specified exposure mode, set the frame rate and set the
exposure time.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Exposure Mode Serial Command

Purpose: Sets the camera’s exposure mode allowing you to control your
EXSYNC signal, exposure time, and frame rate generation.
Syntax: sem m
Syntax Elements: m
Exposure mode to use. Factory setting is 2.
Notes: • Refer to section 4.7.2 Setting the Exposure Mode and Time on
35 for a quick list of available modes or to the following
sections for a more detailed explanation.
• To obtain the current value of the exposure mode, use the
command gcp.
Related Commands: ssf, set
Example: sem 4
Exposure Time Serial Command

Purpose: Sets the camera’s exposure time in µs.
Syntax: set f
Syntax Elements: f
Floating point number in µs. Allowable range is 40-4000000 µs.
Notes: • Camera must be operating in exposure mode 2, 6 or 10.
• To retrieve the current exposure time, use the command get
set.
• If you enter an exposure time outside of a valid range, the input
will be clipped to the min or max. Refer to the help screen (h
command) for the valid range.
• Changing the exposure time will automatically adjust the frame
rate if necessary. The camera sends a warning when this
occurs.
Related Commands: sem, ssf, eec, clm

Example: set 5500
Refer to section 4.6.1 How to Configure Camera Output on page 31 for more information
on the clm and sot (sets pixel rate) commands.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

The exposure mode can be specified using the Exposure Control dialog, available through
the Exposure Control parameter on the Camera Control tab.
Falcon Exposure Control – on Camera Control Tab
Falcon Exposure Control Dialog
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.7.3 Exposure Modes in Detail

Mode 2: Internally Programmable Frame Rate and Exposure Time
(Default)
The parameter being programmed (that is, frame rate or exposure time) will be the
driving factor so that when setting the frame rate, exposure time will decrease, if
necessary, to accommodate the new frame rate. In reverse, the frame rate is decreased, if
necessary, when the exposure time entered is greater than the frame period.
Note: The camera will not set frame periods shorter than the readout period.
If a frame rate is set (using the ssf command) to a time shorter than the readout period,
the camera will automatically adjust the frame period to be at least as long as the readout
time.
Mode 4: Smart EXSYNC, External Frame Rate and Exposure Time

In this mode, EXSYNC sets both the frame period and the exposure time. The rising edge
of EXSYNC marks the beginning of the exposure and the falling edge initiates readout.
There is a 100μs delay between the trigger and the start of the exposure. The minimum
delay between consecutive exposure times is 150μs. The minimum pulse width (exposure
time) is 40μs.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Note that the exposure and readout time can overlap. However, the camera will ignore
the falling edge of EXSYNC if the camera is still reading out the prior frame, and extend
the exposure time to the end of the readout.
Mode 6: External Frame Rate, Fixed Exposure Time

In this mode, the frame rate is triggered externally with the falling edge of EXSYNC
generating the rising edge of a programmable exposure time. There is a 100μs delay
between the trigger and the start of the exposure. The minimum trigger pulse width is
1μs. The minimum exposure time is 40μs.
This mode supports both concurrent and non-concurrent operation. If the exposure time
is greater than the readout time, it will accept a trigger 1μs after the previous exposure is
finished.
If the exposure time is less than the readout time, then the minimum delay between
consecutive exposure times is 150μs. Note that the exposure and readout time can
overlap. However, if the camera is still reading out the prior frame, and a trigger is
asserted, it will extend the exposure time to the end of the readout.
Mode 9: Sequential Smart EXSYNC, External Frame Rate and

Exposure Time
In this mode, EXSYNC sets both the frame period and the exposure time. The rising edge
of EXSYNC marks the beginning of the exposure and the falling edge initiates readout.
There is a 100μs delay between the trigger and the start of the exposure. The minimum
exposure time is 10μs. The minimum delay between the end of readout and the next
EXSYNC is 1μs.
Note, the exposure and readout time cannot overlap. In addition, the camera will ignore
the falling edge of EXSYNC if the prior frame’s integration or readout is not complete.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Mode 10: External Frame Rate, Fixed Exposure Time

In this mode, the frame rate is triggered externally using the EXSYNC falling edge. There
is a 100μs delay between the trigger and the start of the exposure. The minimum exposure
time is 7μs. The minimum delay between the readout and the next EXSYNC is 1μs. Note,
the exposure and readout time cannot overlap.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4.7.4 Setting the Frame Rate

To set the camera frame rate, the camera must be operating in exposure mode 2.
Changing the frame rate will automatically adjust the exposure time if necessary. The
camera sends a warning when this occurs.
Refer to section 4.6.2 Setting the Camera’s Pixel Rate on page 33 for more information on
how to set the camera’s pixel rate
Allowable range is dependent on the current Camera Link mode and window size. Refer
to section 4.6.1 How to Configure Camera Output on page 31 for more information on
Camera Link modes and section 4.8 Setting a Vertical Window of Interest on page 42 for
more information on setting a window size.
Serial Command
Purpose: Sets the camera’s frame rate in Hz.
Syntax: ssf f
Syntax Elements: f
Set the frame rate in Hz in a range from 0.1-101.9 (full
frame, 80 MHz pixel rate) or 0.1-51.1 (full frame, 40 MHz
pixel rate). Range increases when using a window of interest.
Related Commands: sem, set
Example: ssf 25.0
CamExpert Parameter
The frame rate can be specified using the Frame Rate (Hz) parameter available through
Falcon Frame Rate (Hz) – on Camera Control Tab
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.8 Setting a Vertical Window of Interest

A window of interest is a subset of a full frame image that is desired as output from the
camera. Because the sensor is outputting only the designated window of interest, the
benefit is an increase in frame rate and a reduction in data volume. You can set both the
horizontal and vertical window, however only decreasing the vertical window increases
the frame rate.
4.8.1 Frame Rate vs. Active Lines

The following chart describes the frame rate vs. active rows achieved using a 80 MHz
pixel clock and an exposure time of 40 µs.
3500
3030.3
3000
2500
2083.3
2000
Frame Rate
1500
1282
1000
719.4
500 383.1
159.7 128.5 101

0
16 32 64 128 256 640 800 1024
Active Rows
The equation used to determine the frame rate from active rows is:
Frame rate = 106

(9.5 x # of rows) + 71
Serial Command
To set a window of interest:
• Set the window coordinates, using the window start end command:
wse 0 1 x y x y.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

The maximum frame rate increases as you decrease the sequence size.
Purpose: Sets a window of interest.
Syntax: wse q i x1 y1 x2 y2
Syntax Elements: q Window sequence id to use. In this camera, the
sequence id is always 0.
i Window to set. You can only set one window, so this is
always 1.
x1 Window horizontal start corner pixel number, in a
range from 0 – 1399 and must belong to the following
set: 1, 5, 9 , ... 1399.
y1 Window vertical start corner pixel number, in a range
from 0-1023.
x2 Window horizontal end corner pixel number, in a range
from 15-1399 must belong to the following set: 1 5, 1 9 ,
... 1399.. The minimum window width is 16 pixels.
y2 Window vertical end pixel number in range from 1-
1023.
Example: wse 0 1 1 13 1399 1023
CamExpert Parameter
The serial (ASCII) commands let you set the x and y coordinates of the top left and lower
right corners of the window. Through CamExpert, the window is defined by its size and
of offset of the top left corner of the window. The sensor window size and offset can be
specified using the Sensor Width, Sensor Height, Sensor Left Offset, and Sensor Top
Offset parameters available through the Camera Control tab.
Sensor Parameters – on Camera Control Tab
After adjusting the window size, you can change the frame rate for improved
performance. In general, the smaller the window size, the higher the possible frame rate.
The frame rate can be specified using the Frame Rate (Hz) parameter available through
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.9 Flat Field Correction

This camera has the ability to calculate correction coefficients in order to remove non-
uniformity in the image. This video correction operates on a pixel-by-pixel basis and
implements a two point correction for each pixel. This correction can reduce or eliminate
image distortion caused by the following factors:
• Fixed Pattern Noise (FPN)
• Photo Response Non Uniformity (PRNU)
• Lens and light source non-uniformity
The camera is shipped with pre-set factory correction coefficients in both the factory and
user sets, such that in most applications there is no need to perform flat field correction.
Note that factory calibration is performed with an exposure time of 9ms. However, if you
are using a different exposure time and your application is sensitive to small pixel
variations, it is recommended that you perform flat field correction at your typical
exposure time.
Correction is implemented such that for each pixel:
V output =[(V input - FPN( pixel ) - digital offset) * PRNU(pixel) – Background Subtract] x System Gain
where V output = digital output pixel value
V input = digital input pixel value from the sensor
PRNU( pixel) = PRNU correction coefficient for this pixel
FPN( pixel ) = FPN correction coefficient for this pixel
Background Subtract = background subtract value
System Gain = digital gain value
The algorithm is performed in two steps. The fixed offset (FPN) is determined first by
performing a calculation without any light. This calibration determines exactly how much
offset to subtract per pixel in order to obtain flat output when the sensor is not exposed.
The white light (PRNU) calibration is performed next to determine the multiplication
factors required to bring each pixel to the required value (target) for flat, white output.
Video output is set slightly above the brightest pixel (depending on offset subtracted).
It is important to do the FPN correction first. Results of the FPN correction are used in the
PRNU procedure. We recommend that you repeat the correction when a temperature
change greater than 10°C occurs or if you change the frame rate or integration time.
Note: If your
illumination or PRNU correction requires a clean, white reference. The quality of this reference is
white reference important for proper calibration. White paper is often not sufficient because the grain in
does not extend the white paper will distort the correction. White plastic or white ceramic will lead to
the full field of view better balancing.
of the camera, the
camera will send a
warning.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

For best results, ensure that:
1. 60 Hz ambient light flicker is sufficiently low not to affect camera performance and
calibration results.
2. The brightest pixel should be slightly below the target output. If the target is too
close, then some pixels may not be able to reach their full swing (1023 DN dynamic
range) due to the correction applied by the camera.
3. When 6.25% of pixels from a single row within the region of interest are clipped, flat
field correction results may be inaccurate.
4. Correction results are valid only for the current analog offset values.
Flat Field Calibration Example Procedure

The following is a flat field calibration example, using serial commands:
1. The camera is placed in sem 2.
2. Settings such as frame rate, exposure time, and so forth, are set as close as possible to
actual operating conditions. Set the digital gain to 1 x gain (ssg 0 1024) and
background subtract to 0 (ssb 0 0) as these are the defaults during FFC calibration. In
addition, ensure that you are in non-concurrent operation. In non-concurrent mode,
readout and integration do not overlap, thus eliminating some residual artifacts
associated with concurrent operation.
3. Place the camera in the dark and send the ccf command. This performs the FPN
correction and automatically saves the FPN coefficients to non-volatile memory.
4. Set epc 1 0, which enables the FPN correction and verify the signal output is close to
0 DN. Leave epc 1 0 for the next step since the cpa target assumes there is no FPN.
5. Illuminate the sensor, such that with epc 1 0, it reaches 50%-70% saturation.
6. Send cpa 2 T where T is typically 1.3 x the average output level. This is important
since if the target it too low (< 1.1 x ), then some pixels may not be able to reach full
swing (1023 DN) due to corrections applied by the camera.
7. If satisfied by the results write the FPN coefficients and PRNU coefficients to memory
(wfc and wpc).
How can one match gain and offset values on multiple cameras?
One way is of course to use flat field correction. All cameras would be set up under
the same conditions including lighting and then calibrated with ccf and cpa. This can
be time-consuming and complicated (especially the white target). Another way is to
use analog offset and system gain (digital gain):
1. Starting from factory settings (sao 0 0, ssg 0 1024, epc 1 1), take note what the
highest dark offset is among the set of cameras. If the highest dark offset is higher
than about 16 DN (10 bit) you might want to consider recalibrating the FPN
correction (ccf). Large differences in dark offset between the factory and user are
typically caused by differences in temperature from factory to user. Large dark
offsets will result in PRNU-correction-induced FPN and should therefore be avoided.
2. Increase the offset (camera in dark) on all cameras (sao command) until they are the
dame and reach at least 4 DN (10 bit).
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

3. Illuminate to about 80% saturation (820 DN, 10 bit) and note the highest signal level
among the set of cameras.
4. Increase the digital gain (ssg) on the cameras until they all reach the same output
level of the camera with the highest output found in step 3.
5. Place camera in the dark and repeat steps 2 to 4 until both dark offset and 80%
saturation signal levels are equal on all cameras.
6. If satisfied by the results write the FPN coefficients and PRNU coefficients to memory
(wfc and wpc).
An important note on window blemishes:
When flat field correction is performed, window cleanliness is paramount. The

following figure shows an example of what can happen if a blemish is present on the
sensor window when flat field correction is performed. The blemish will cast a
shadow on the wafer. FFC will compensate for this shadow by increasing the gain.
Essentially FFC will create a white spot to compensate for the dark spot (shadow). As
long as the angle of incident light remains unchanged then FFC works well. However
when the angle of incidence changes significantly (for example, when a lens is added)
then the shadow will shift and FFC will makes things worse by not correcting the
new shadow (dark spot) and overcorrecting where the shadow used to be (white
spot). While the dark spot can be potentially cleaned, the white spot is an FFC artifact
that can only be corrected by another FFC calibration.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

4.9.1 CamExpert Calibration Wizard

CamExpert includes a Calibration Wizard which is designed to guide you through the
flat field calibration process, without having to directly use serial commands. Simply
follow the instructions provided by the wizard.
Note: The CamExpert Pre-Processing menu includes commands to perform flat field
correction on the hardware (frame grabber) or software (host PC), however, to use the
camera’s flat field correction capability, use the Calibration Wizard or the camera serial
commands.
To launch the Calibration Wizard, click on the Flat Field Correction parameter
“Setting…” field, available on the Camera Control tab.
Falcon Flat Field Correction – on Camera Control Tab
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.9.2 Selecting Factory or User Coefficients

Serial Command
Purpose: Selects the coefficient set to use. The camera ships with a factory
calibrated set of FPN and PRNU coefficients. The factory coefficients
cannot be erased or modified.
Syntax: csn i
Syntax Elements: i
Coefficient set to use.
0 = Factory calibrated set of FPN and PRNU coefficients. These
coefficients cannot be erased or modified.
1 = User calibrated set of FPN and PRNU coefficients. These
coefficients can be deleted or modified.
Notes: The camera ships with the factory calibrated FPN and PRNU
coefficients saved to both set 0 and set 1. When you first boot up
the camera, the camera operates using set 1 (csn 1) enabled.
To retrieve the current coefficient set number, use get csn.
Example: csn 0
4.9.3 Enabling Pixel Coefficients

Serial Command
Purpose: The camera ships with the FPN and PRNU coefficients enabled, but
you can enable and disable FPN and PRNU coefficients whenever
necessary.
Syntax: epc i i
Syntax Elements: i
FPN coefficients.
0 = FPN coefficients disabled
1 = FPN coefficients enabled
i
PRNU coefficients.
0 = PRNU coefficients disabled
1 = PRNU coefficients enabled
Notes: The coefficient set that you are enabling or disabling is
determined by the csn value. Refer to the previous section for
an explanation of the csn command.
Example: epc 1 1
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

CamExpert Parameter
The pixel coefficients are enabled using the Frame Rate (Hz) parameter available through
the Camera Control tab. This parameter enables both FPN and PRNU coefficients.
Enable Flat Field Correction – on Camera Control Tab
4.9.4 Selecting the Calibration Sample Size

Serial Command
Setting the Number of Frames to Sample
Purpose: Sets the number of frames to sample when performing pixel
coefficient calculations. Higher values cause calibration to take
longer but provide the most accurate results.
Syntax: css i
Syntax Elements: i
Number of frames to sample. Allowable values are 32
(default), 64, 128 , 256, 512, or 1024.
Notes: To return the current setting, use the gcp command.
Example: css 1024
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.9.5 Performing FPN Calibration

Serial Commands
Calibrating All Camera Pixels

Purpose: Performs FPN calibration and eliminates FPN noise by subtracting
away individual pixel dark current.
Syntax: ccf
Notes: Before performing this command, stop all light from entering
the camera. (Tip: cover lens with a lens cap.)
The goal is to subtract all non-uniformities and offsets to obtain
a 0 DN output in dark. Analog offset should be set to 0 since it
gets subtracted out during FPN calibration.
Set the digital gain to 1 x gain (ssg 0 4096) since during
calibration it is forced to 1 x gain.
Perform FPN correction before PRNU correction.
The ccf command is not available when the camera is using the
factory calibrated coefficients (csn 0). You must select the user
coefficient set (csn 1) before you can perform FPN calibration.
An error message is returned if you attempt to perform FPN
calibration when using csn 0.
If you are operating the camera in test pattern mode (svm 1-8),
you must turn off exposure correction (eec 0) prior to running
the ccf command.
The LED flashes green while coefficients are computed. After
completion, the LED should return to solid green, unless an
error occurred during calibration.
Example: ccf
FPN correction can only be performed in exposure modes sem

2, sem 9 and sem 10.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Calibrating Individual Pixels

Purpose: Sets an individual pixel’s FPN coefficient.
Syntax sfc x y i
Syntax Elements: x
The pixel column number from 1 to 1400.
The pixel row number from 1 to 1024.
Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 255.
Notes: The sfc command is not available when the camera is using
the factory calibrated coefficients (csn 0). You must select the
user coefficient set (csn 1) before you can perform FPN
calibration. An error message is returned if you attempt to
perform FPN calibration when using csn 0.
Example: sfc 10 50
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.9.6 Performing PRNU Calibration

Serial Command
Purpose: Performs PRNU calibration to a targeted, user defined value and
eliminates the difference in responsivity between the most and least
sensitive pixel creating a uniform response to light. To use this
command, you must provide a calibration target.
Executing these algorithms causes the ssb command to be set to 0
(no background subtraction) and the ssg command to 4096 (unity
digital gain). The pixel coefficients are disabled (epc 0 0) during
the algorithm execution but returned to the state they were prior to
command execution.
Syntax: cpa i i
Syntax Elements: i
PRNU calibration algorithm to use:

2 = Calculates the PRNU coefficients using the entered target
value as shown below:
Target
PRNU Coefficient =
i
(AVG Pixel Value ) ‐ (FPN + sdo value)
i i
The calculation is performed for all sensor pixels but warnings
are only applied to pixels in the region of interest. This
algorithm is useful for achieving uniform output across multiple
cameras. It is important that the target value (set with the next
parameter) is set to be at least equal to the highest pixel across
all cameras so that all pixels can reach the highest pixel value
during calibration.
i
Peak target value in a range from 256 to 1013 DN. The target
value must be greater than the current peak output value.
Notes: PRNU correction can only be performed in exposure mode sem
2, sem 9 or sem 10.
Calibrate FPN before calibrating PRNU. If you are not
performing FPN calibration then issue the rpc (reset pixel
coefficients) command and set the sdo (set digital offset) value
so that the output is near zero under dark.
The cpa command is not available when the camera is using the
coefficient set (csn 1) before you can perform PRNU
perform PRNU calibration when using csn 0.
Example: cpa 2 700
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Calibrating Individual Pixels

Purpose: Sets an individual pixel’s PRNU coefficient.
Syntax spc x y i
Syntax Elements: x
The pixel column number from 1 to 1400.
The pixel row number from 1 to 1024.
Coefficient value in a range from 0 to 255 where

i
PRNU coeff = 1 + ( )
256
Notes: The spc command is not available when the camera is using
the factory calibrated coefficients (csn 0). You must select the
user coefficient set (csn 1) before you can perform PRNU
perform PRNU calibration when using csn 0. To return the
current csn number, send the command get csn.
Example: spc 10 50 200
4.9.7 Saving, Loading and Resetting Coefficients

Saving the Current PRNU Coefficients
Purpose: Saves the current PRNU coefficients to non-volatile memory.
Syntax: wpc
Notes: The wpc command is not available when the camera is using the
coefficient set (csn 1) before you can perform PRNU
perform PRNU calibration when using csn 0. To return the
current csn number, send the command get csn.
Example: wpc
Saving the Current FPN Coefficients

Purpose: Saves the current FPN coefficients to non-volatile memory.
Syntax: wfc
Notes: The wfc command is not available when the camera is using the
coefficient set (csn 1) before you can save FPN coefficients. An
error message is returned if you attempt to save FPN coefficients
when using csn 0. To return the current csn number, send the
command get csn.
Example: wfc
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Loading Pixel Coefficients

Purpose: Loads the last saved user coefficients or original factory coefficients
from non-volatile memory.
Syntax: lpc
Notes: The coefficient set that you are loading is determined by the csn
value. Refer to the section, Selecting Factory or User Settings, for
an explanation of the csn command. To return the current csn
number, send the command get csn.
Example: lpc
Resetting the Current Pixel Coefficients

Purpose: Resets the current user coefficients to zero. This command also resets
saved coefficients to zero, resulting in raw video without correction
being output from the camera.
Syntax: rpc
Notes: The rpc command is not available when the camera is using the
coefficient set (csn 1) before you can reset pixel coefficients. An
error message is returned if you attempt to reset pixel
coefficients when using csn 0. To return the current csn
number, send the command get csn.
The user flat field coefficient settings can be loaded or saved using the Power-Up
Configuration dialog, available through the Power-Up Configuration parameter on the
Camera Information tab.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Falcon Test Power-Up Configuration Dialog
Set 0 contains the factory settings and Set 1 contains the user settings. Enable the Flatfield
FPN and PRNU coefficients checkbox to load or save the user flat field coefficients.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

4.10 Gain Adjustments

4.10.1 Factory Calibrated Analog Gains
The camera has a factory calibrated analog gain setting. Adjustment of analog gain is not
available to the user, however, digital gain is available using the set system gain serial
command, ssg.
4.10.2 Setting Digital System Gain

Serial Command
Purpose: 1) Increases the overall gain of the camera.
2) Improves signal output swing after a background
subtract. When subtracting a digital value from the
digital video signal, using the ssb command, the output
can no longer reach its maximum. Use this command to
correct for this where:
ssg value = max output value
max output value - ssb value
Syntax: ssg t i
Syntax Elements: t
Sensor tap selection. This is always 0 for all taps.
Gain setting. The gain ranges are 1024 to 8191. The digital
video values are multiplied by this value where:
i
Digital Gain =
1024
For example, to set a digital gain of 2.0, i equals 2048.
Notes: • Entering a large value gain will cause the camera to digitally
saturate the output image
Example: ssg 0 1024
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

The digital system gain is set using the System Gain parameter, available on the Camera
Control tab.
Falcon System Gain – on Camera Control Tab
4.10.3 Subtracting Background

Serial Command
Purpose: Use the background subtract command after performing flat
field correction if you want to improve your image in a low
contrast scene. It is useful for systems that process 8 bit data
but want to take advantage of the camera’s 10 bit digital
processing chain. You should try to make your darkest pixel in
the scene equal to zero.
Syntax: ssb t i
Syntax Elements: t
Tap selection. This is always set to 0 (all taps).
i
Subtracted value in a range in DN from 0 to 511.
Notes: When subtracting a digital value from the digital video signal the
output can no longer reach its maximum. Use the ssg command
to correct for this where:
ssg value = max output value
max output value ‐ ssb value
Related Commands: ssg
Example ssb 0 25
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

The background subtraction is set using the Subtract Background (DIN) parameter,
available on the Camera Control tab.
Falcon Subtract Background – on Camera Control Tab
4.11 Generating a Test Pattern

The Falcon camera includes a built in test pattern generator that can be used to confirm
camera connections or driver installations, without the need for a camera lens or proper
lighting. The pattern generator inserts video just after the sensor A/D converter, therefore
Falcon processing such as the LUT act on the generator images or on sensor images.
Serial Command
Purpose: Generates a test pattern to aid in system debugging. The test
patterns are useful for verifying proper timing and connections
between the camera and the frame grabber. The following table
shows each available test pattern.
Syntax: svm i
Syntax Elements: i
0 Video.
4 Test pattern horizontal ramp
5 Test pattern vertical ramp
6 Test pattern diagonal ramp:
7 Reserved for DALSA product support.
8 Reserved for DALSA product support.
When switching the camera from video mode (svm 0) to

one of the test pattern modes (svm 4 thru 8), the camera
"turns off" any digital gain (ssg), and background subtract
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

(ssb) settings currently being used. The gcp screen does

not turn off these settings and displays the settings used
prior to switching to test pattern mode. When returning to
video mode (svm 0), the digital gain, background subtract
and exposure control settings are returned to their prior
state.
Example: svm 5
Test 8-Bit 10-Bit

Pattern
Horizontal
Ramp
(svm 4)
Vertical
Ramp
(svm 5)
Diagonal
Ramp
(svm 5)
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

CamExpert Parameter
CamExpert is used to easily enable and select the Falcon test patterns. As shown in the
following figure, select the Camera Control tab, then select one of the available patterns
from the Test Image Selector drop menu. Select live grab to see the pattern output.
Falcon Test Image Selector – on Camera Control Tab
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

5
Optical and Mechanical
Considerations
5.1 Mechanical Interface
Camera Mechanical Dimensions (in mm)
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

44 mm
LED 6 pin male

Hirose
connector
44 mm
SDR26 female mini

Camera Link connector
Back Panel
¼-20 UNC x 6.0

8.00
M4 x 0.7 x 5.0
[8X]
Bottom View
For optimal camera performance, the camera can be cooled by applying forced air flow or
by attaching the camera to a material that can conduct heat away from the camera.
5.2 Lens Mounts

Configuration Flange Back Focal Length (sensor die to adapter)
C-Mount 17.52
Note that the use of certain C-Mount lenses will cause vignetting due to the size of the
image sensor. The full resolution of the CMOS sensor is between 2/3 inch and 1 inch C-
Mount standards
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

5.3 Optical Interface

5.3.1 Illumination
The amount and wavelengths of light required to capture useful images depend on the
particular application. Factors include the nature, speed, and spectral characteristics of
objects being imaged, exposure times, light source characteristics, environmental and
acquisition system specifics, and more. DALSA’s Web site, www.dalsa.com, provides an
introduction to this potentially complicated issue. See “Practical Radiometry” in the
Application Notes and Technology Primers found under the Knowledge Center link.
It is often more important to consider exposure than illumination. The total amount of
energy (which is related to the total number of photons reaching the sensor). For example,
5μJ/cm2 can be achieved by exposing 5mW/cm2 for 1ms just the same as exposing an
intensity of 5W/cm2 for 1μs.
5.3.2 Light Sources

Keep these guidelines in mind when setting up your light source:
• LED light sources are relatively inexpensive, provide a uniform field, and longer life
span compared to other light sources. Compared to Halogen light sources, LED’s
provide more blue and less red photons.
• Halogen light sources generally provide very little blue relative to IR.
• Fiber-optic light distribution systems generally transmit very little blue relative to IR.
• Some light sources age; over their life span they produce less light. This aging may
not be uniform—a light source may produce progressively less light in some areas of
the spectrum but not others.
5.3.3 Filters
Digital cameras are extremely responsive to infrared (IR) wavelengths of light. To prevent
infrared from distorting the images you scan, use a “hot mirror” or IR cutoff filter that
transmits visible wavelengths but does not transmit wavelengths over 750nm. Examples
are the Schneider Optics™ B+W 489, which includes a mounting ring, the CORION™ LS-
750, which does not include a mounting ring, and the CORION™ HR-750 series hot
mirror. Any good manufactured IR filter can be used.
5.3.4 Lens Modeling

Any lens surrounded by air can be modeled for camera purposes using three primary
points: the first and second principal points and the second focal point. The primary
points for a lens should be available from the lens data sheet or from the lens
manufacturer. Primed quantities denote characteristics of the image side of the lens. That
is, h is the object height and h′ is the image height.
The focal point is the point at which the image of an infinitely distant object is brought to
focus. The effective focal length (f′) is the distance from the second principal point to the
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

second focal point. The back focal length (BFL) is the distance from the image side of the
lens surface to the second focal point. The object distance (OD) is the distance from the first
principal point to the object.
Primary Points in A Lens System
5.3.5 Magnification and Resolution

The magnification of a lens is the ratio of the image size to the object size:
h′ where m is the magnification, h’ is the image height

m= (pixel size) and h is the object height (desired object
h
resolution size).
By similar triangles, the magnification is alternatively given by:
f′
m=
OD
These equations can be combined to give their most useful form:
h′ f′ This is the governing equation for many object and

= image plane parameters.
h OD
Example: An acquisition system has a 512 x 512 element, 10μm pixel pitch area scan
camera, a lens with an effective focal length of 45mm, and requires that 100μm in the
object space correspond to each pixel in the image sensor. Using the preceding equation,
the object distance must be 450mm (0.450m).
10 μm 45 mm
= OD = 450 mm (0.450 m )
100 μm OD
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

6
Troubleshooting
The information in this chapter can help you solve problems that may occur during the
setup of your camera. Remember that the camera is part of the entire acquisition system.
You may have to troubleshoot any or all of the following:
• power supplies • cabling

• frame grabber hardware & software • host computer
• light sources • optics
• operating environment • encoder
Your steps in dealing with a technical problem should be:
1. Try the general and specific solutions listed in sections 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3.
2. If these solutions do not resolve your problem, see section 6.4 on getting product
support.
6.1 Common Solutions

6.1.1 Connections
The first step in troubleshooting is to verify that your camera has all the correct
connections.
Power Supply Voltages

Check for the presence of all voltages at the camera power connector. Verify the
connector pinout and that all grounds are connected. Refer to section 2.2.5 Power
Connector on page 20 for details.
Note: Avoid hot plugging long power cables into the camera.

Data Clocking/Output Signals

To validate cable integrity, have the camera send out a test pattern and verify it is being
properly received. Refer to section 4.11 Generating a Test Pattern for further information
on running test patterns.
6.2 Troubleshooting Using the Serial

Interface
6.2.1 Communications
To quickly verify serial communications send the h (help) command. By sending the h
and receiving the help menu, the serial communications are verified. If further problems
persist, review Appendix B for more information on communications.
6.2.2 Verify Parameters

To verify the camera setup, send the gcp (get camera parameters) command. To retrieve
valid parameter ranges, send the h (help) command.
6.2.3 Verify Factory Calibrated Settings

To restore the camera’s factory settings send the rfs command.
After executing this command send the gcp command to verify the factory settings.
6.2.4 Verify Timing and Digital Video Path

Use the test pattern feature to verify the proper timing and connections between the
camera and the frame grabber and verify the proper output along the digital processing
chain.
6.3 Specific Solutions

6.3.1 No Output or Erratic Behavior
If your camera provides no output or behaves erratically, it may be picking up random
noise from long cables acting as antennae. Do not attach wires to unused pins. Verify that
the camera is not receiving spurious inputs (for example EXSYNC, if camera is using an
internal signal for synchronization).
6.3.2 Line Dropout, Bright Lines, or Incorrect Frame rate

Verify that the frequency of the internal sync is set correctly.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

6.3.3 Noisy Output

Check your power supply voltage outputs for noise. Noise present on these lines can
result in poor video quality. Low quality or non-twisted pair cable can also add noise to
the video output.
6.3.4 Dark Patches

If dark patches appear in your output the optics path may have become contaminated.
Clean your lenses and sensor windows with extreme care.
1. Take standard ESD precautions.
2. Wear latex gloves or finger cots
3. Blow off dust using a filtered blow bottle or dry, filtered compressed air.
4. Fold a piece of optical lens cleaning tissue (approx. 3" x 5") to make a square pad that
is approximately one finger-width
5. Moisten the pad on one edge with 2-3 drops of clean solvent—either alcohol or
acetone. Do not saturate the entire pad with solvent.
6. Wipe across the length of the window in one direction with the moistened end first,
followed by the rest of the pad. The dry part of the pad should follow the moistened
end. The goal is to prevent solvent from evaporating from the window surface, as
this will end up leaving residue and streaking behind.
7. Repeat steps 2-6 using a clean tissue until the entire window has been cleaned.
8. Blow off any adhering fibers or particles using dry, filtered compressed air.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

6.4 Product Support

If there is a problem with your camera, collect the following data about your application
and situation and call your DALSA representative. If most cases, providing the output
from executing the ‘gcp’ command will give our Product Support Team with a large
amount of information to help you solve your problem.
Note: You may also want to photocopy this page to fax to DALSA.
Customer name
Organization name
Customer phone number

fax number
Complete Product Model Number
(for example, FA-20-01M1H-00-R)
Complete Camera Serial Number
Your DALSA Agent or Dealer
Acquisition System hardware

(frame grabber, host computer,
light sources, etc.)
Acquisition System software
(version, OS, etc.)
Power supplies and current draw
Data rate used
Control signals used in your EXSYNC BIN

application, and their frequency
MCLK Other _______
or state (if applicable)
Results when you run the gcp please attach text received from the camera after
command initiating the command
Detailed description of problem please attach description with as much detail as
encountered. appropriate
In addition to your local DALSA representative, you may need to call DALSA Technical
Sales Support:
North America Europe Asia
Voice: 519-886-6000 +49-8142-46770 519-886-6000
Fax: 519-886-8023 +49-8142-467746 519-886-8023
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Appendix A
Camera Link™ Reference,
Timing, and Configuration Table
Camera Link is a communication interface for vision applications. It provides a
connectivity standard between cameras and frame grabbers. A standard cable connection
will reduce manufacturers’ support time and greatly reduce the level of complexity and
time needed for customers to successfully integrate high speed cameras with frame
grabbers. This is particularly relevant as signal and data transmissions increase both in
complexity and throughput. A standard cable/connector assembly will also enable
customers to take advantage of volume pricing, thus reducing costs.
The camera link standard is intended to be extremely flexible in order to meet the needs
of different camera and frame grabber manufacturers.
The DALSA Camera Link Implementation Road Map (available in the Knowledge Center
at www.dalsa.com) details how DALSA standardizes its use of the Camera Link interface.
LVDS Technical Description

Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) is a high-speed, low-power general purpose
interface standard. The standard, known as ANSI/TIA/EIA-644, was approved in March
1996. LVDS uses differential signaling, with a nominal signal swing of 350mV differential.
The low signal swing decreases rise and fall times to achieve a theoretical maximum
transmission rate of 1.923 Gbps into a loss-less medium. The low signal swing also means
that the standard is not dependent on a particular supply voltage. LVDS uses current-
mode drivers, which limit power consumption. The differential signals are immune to ±1
V common mode noise.
Camera Signal Requirements

This section provides definitions for the signals used in the Camera Link interface. The
standard Camera Link cable provides camera control signals, serial communication, and
video data.
Video Data
The Channel Link technology is integral to the transmission of video data. Image data
and image enable signals are transmitted on the Channel Link bus. Four enable signals
are defined as:
• FVAL—Frame Valid (FVAL) is defined HIGH for valid lines.
• LVAL—Line Valid (LVAL) is defined HIGH for valid pixels.
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

• DVAL—Data Valid (DVAL) is defined HIGH when data is valid.
• Spare— A spare has been defined for future use.
All four enable signals must be provided by the camera on each Channel Link chip. All
unused data bits must be tied to a known value by the camera. For more information on
image data bit allocations, refer to the official Camera Link specification on the
www.dalsa.com Web site.
Camera Control Signals

Four LVDS pairs are reserved for general-purpose camera control. They are defined as
camera inputs and frame grabber outputs. Camera manufacturers can define these signals
to meet their needs for a particular product.
All four enable signals must be provided by the camera on each Channel Link chip. All
unused data bits must be tied to a known value by the camera. For more information on
image data bit allocations, refer to the official Camera Link specification on the
www.dalsa.com Web site.
DALSA Camera Control Configuration
Falcon Stop Action Camera Link
Cameras Name
EXSYNC CC1
Reserved for future use CC2
Communication
Two LVDS pairs have been allocated for asynchronous serial communication to and from
the camera and frame grabber. Cameras and frame grabbers should support at least 9600
baud. These signals are
• SerTFG—Differential pair with serial communications to the frame grabber.
• SerTC—Differential pair with serial communications to the camera.
The serial interface will have the following characteristics: one start bit, one stop bit, no
parity, and no handshaking. It is recommended that frame grabber manufacturers supply
both a user interface and a software application programming interface (API) for using
the asynchronous serial communication port. The user interface will consist of a terminal
program with minimal capabilities of sending and receiving a character string and
sending a file of bytes. The software API will provide functions to enumerate boards and
send or receive a character string. See Appendix B in the Official Camera Link
specification on the www.dalsa.com Web site.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Camera Link Video Timing

Falcon Standard Timing (Input and Output Relationships)
STROBE
tFRAME PERIOD
twSYNC twSYNC_INT
EXSYNC
tTRANSFER tREADOUT tOVERHEAD

FRAME VALID
tLF
tFL tLINE tLVAL_LOW
LINE VALID 1 N
DATA
thPR
twPR_LOW tPR_INT
PIXEL RESET
DVAL
Symbol Definition Units Min. Typ. Max.

twSYNC The minimum width of the EXSYNC µs 12
pulse. When in SMART EXSYNC
mode, the minimum width is greater to
allow for the photosites to be properly
reset.
twSYNC_INT Te integration time when the “SMART µs 10
EXSYNC” feature is available and
turned on. Note, the minimum time is
necessary to guarantee proper
operation.
t FRAME The minimum frame time made up of ms 16.129 1000.0
PERIOD tTransfer, tREADOUT plus
tOVERHEAD
tTRANSFER The time from the reception of the µs * 82 (clm 2/3)
falling edge of EXSYNC to the rising
edge of FVAL.
tREADOUT The time that frame valid is high µs * (clm 2/3)
(clm 2/3, sot
80)
tOVERHEAD The number of pixels that must elapse ns *
after the falling edge of FVAL before
the EXSYNC falling edge can occur.
tLINE The line time µs * (clm 2/3, sot
80)
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Symbol Definition Units Min. Typ. Max.

tFL Number strobes between FVAL rising clocks 0
and the first LVAL rising edge.
tLVAL_LOW Number strobes that LVAL is low µs *
during readout
tLF Number of strobes between last LVAL clocks 0
falling and FVAL falling edge.
thPR N/A ns
twPR_LOW N/A ns
tPR_INT N/A ns
* Information not available at printing.
Bit Assignments According to Configuration

The following table describes the bit assignments for both 8-bit and 10-bit 2 tap base
configuration (clm 2 and clm 3). The two taps are interleaved and provide consecutive
pixels simultaneously (for example, with the 8-bit configuration, port A starts with pixel
0 and port B pixel 1, and so on).
Port/bit 8-bit 10-bit
Port A0 A0 A0
Port A1 A1 A1
Port A2 A2 A2
Port A3 A3 A3
Port A4 A4 A4
Port A5 A5 A5
Port A6 A6 A6
Port A7 A7 A7
Port B0 B0 A8
Port B1 B1 A9
Port B2 B2 Not used
Port B3 B3 Not used
Port B4 B4 B8
Port B5 B5 B9
Port B6 B6 Not used
Port B7 B7 Not used
Port C0 Not used B0
Port C1 Not used B1
Port C2 Not used B2
Port C3 Not used B3
Port C4 Not used B4
Port C5 Not used B5
Port C6 Not used B6
Port C7 Not used B7
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Appendix B
Error Handling and Command

List
All Available Commands
As a quick reference, the following table lists all of the commands available to the camera
user. For detailed information on using these commands, refer to Chapter 4.
Command Syntax Parameters Description
correction ccf Performs FPN calibration and eliminates
Parameters:
calibrate FPN FPN by subtracting away individual pixel
t = tap id
dark current.
i = integer value
f = real number camera link clm m Output mode to use:
s = string mode 2: Base configuration, 2 taps, 8 bit output
m = member of a 3: Base configuration, 2 taps, 10 bit output
set
calculate PRNU cpa i i Performs PRNU calibration according to
algorithm the selected algorithm.
The first parameter is the algorithm where
i is:
2 = Calculates the PRNU coefficients using
the entered target value
Target
PRNU Coefficient =
i
(AVG Pixel Value ) ‐ (FPN + sdo value)
i i
This algorithm is useful for achieving
uniform output across multiple cameras.
coefficient set csn i Selects the coefficient set to use, either:

number 0 = Factory calibrated set of FPN and
PRNU coefficients. These coefficients
cannot be erased or modified.
1 = User calibrated set of FPN and PRNU
coefficients. These coefficients can be
deleted or modified.
calibration css m Sets the number of lines to sample when
sample size performing FPN and PRNU calibration
where m is 32(factory setting), 64, 128 ,
256, 512, or 1024
DALSA 03-032-20024-01


enable pixel epc i i Enables or disables FPN and PRNU
Parameters:
coefficients coefficients.
t = tap id
i = integer value The first parameter sets the FPN
f = real number coefficients where i is:
s = string 0 = FPN coefficients disabled
m = member of a 1 = FPN coefficients enabled
set The second parameter sets the PRNU
coefficients where i is:
0 = PRNU coefficients disabled
1 = PRNU coefficients enabled
get camera gcm Read the camera model number.
model
get camera gcp Read all of the camera parameters.
parameters
get camera gcs Read the camera serial number.
serial
get camera gcv Read the firmware version and FPGA
version version.
get command get s Display value of camera command s
parameter
Get FPN gfc x y x = 1-1400
Coefficient y = 1-1024
get help gh Display the get help screen
get sync gsf i Displays the frames per second. (i = 1)

frequency
help h Display the online help
Load pixel lpc

coefficients
reset camera rc Reset the entire camera (reboot).
restore factory rfs Restore the camera’s factory settings.

settings
reset pixel rpc Resets the pixel coefficients to factory
coefficients settings.
restore user rus Restore the camera’s last saved user
settings settings.
set horizontal sbh i Sets the horizontal binning.
binning 1: no binning
2: each pixel value is formed from 2
adjacent pixels, effectively reducing the
frame width in half.
set baud rate sbr m Set the speed of the serial communication
port. Baud rates: 9600, 19200, 57600, and
115200. Default baud: 9600.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA


set vertical sbv i Sets the vertical binning.
Parameters:
binning rate 1: no binning
t = tap id
i = integer value 2: each pixel value is formed from 2
f = real number adjacent pixels on consecutive lines,
s = string effectively reducing the frame height in
m = member of a half.
set set digital offset sdo t i Set the digital offset as a DN, which is
added to the digital video signal.
t: tap selector: this is always 0 (all taps)
i: the digital offset (0-1023 DN)
Set exposure sem m Set the exposure mode. Available values
mode are:
2: Internal SYNC, programmable frame
rate and exposure time using commands
ssf and set.
4: Smart EXSYNC.
6: External frame rate, fixed exposure time
9: Sequential Smart EXSYNC.
10: Sequential external frame rate, fixed
exposure time
set exposure set f Sets the exposure time to a floating point
time number in µs. Allowable range is 250-
4194303 µs.
Set FPN sfc x y i x = 1-1400
Coefficient y = 1-1024
i = 0-255
sfc x y z
set LUT slc i i Specifies the LUT input pixel value and
coefficient output value. All other pixel values are
then calculated linearly.
i :Input pixel value. Possible values are 0-
1023.
i : Output pixel value. Possible values are 0-
1023.
set LUT enable sle i Enables or disables the camera LUT.
0: LUT disabled
1: LUT enabled
set mirroring smm i Enables or disables mirroring mode:
mode" 0: disabled
1: enabled
set output sot m Sets the output throughput. Possible values
throughput are 80 or 160 MHz.
Set PRNU spc x y i x = 1-1400

coefficient y = 1-1024
i = 0-255
DALSA 03-032-20024-01


Set subtract ssb t i t = 0-0
Parameters:
background i = 0-511
t = tap id
i = integer value
f = real number set sync ssf f Sets the frame rate in Hz to a value from
s = string frequency 0.095 to 102.354.
m = member of a
set
set system gain ssg t i Sets the digital gain.
t = Tap selection. Allowable value is 0 for
all taps.
i = Gain value is specified from 0 to
65535. The digital video values are
multiplied by this number.
set video mode svm m Sets the camera’s video mode.
0: Video mode
4: Test pattern horizontal ramp
5: Test pattern vertical ramp
6: Test pattern diagonal ramp
7: Test pattern FPN
8: Test pattern PRNU
upload CBF file upd
verify vt Returns the current temperature of the

temperature camera.
verify voltage vv Returns the 1.2 V, 2.5V, and 3.3V
measurements.
window start wse i i x1 y1 Sets the window start and stop pixels
end x2 y2 where:
i is the window sequence id. It is always 0
in this camera.
i is the number of windows to set. It is
always 1 in this camera.
x1 is window start corner value. Ranges
from 0-1399.
y1 is window start pixel number. Ranges
from 0-1023.
x2 is window end corner value. Ranges
from 15-1399.
y2 is window end pixel number . Ranges
from 1-1023.
write FPN wfc Saves the FPN coefficients
coefficients
write PRNU wpc Saves the PRNU coefficients

coefficients
write user wus Write all of the user settings to non-volatile

settings memory.
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Appendix C
EMC Declaration of Conformity
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

Appendix D
Revision History
Revision Change Description
Number
00 Preliminary release
01 First release edition
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Index
A D
antiblooming, 10 dark patches, 67
data bus, 19
B data rate, 9
DC offset, 10
base configuration, 17 digital
baud rate, 26 gain, 56
bright lines, 66 DVAL, 70
dynamic range, 9
C
E
calibration
overview, 44 EIA-644 Reference, 69
steps, 44 electrical specifications, 9
Calibration Wizard, 47 EMC Declaration of
camera Conformity, 77
output configuration, 31
camera control signals, 19
camera getsettings
F
retrieving, 28 fiber-optic light sources, 63
camera information, 28 filters, 63
camera interfacing tool, 21 flat field correction, 44
Camera Link FPN, 44
configuration, 17, 32, 33 FPN calibration, 50
configurations, 17, 18, 31 FVAL, 69
connector, 17, 18
inputs, 19
mode, 32 G
outputs, 19 gain
camera settings digital, 56
current, 29 Get Command Parameter, 28
factory, 29
restoring, 29
saving, 29 H
user, 29 halogen light sources, 63
clock signals, 19 help, 26
coefficients, 48 hot mirror, 63
command
format, 25
list, 73 I
parameters, 25
illumination, 63
connector, 16
incorrect line rate, 66
Camera Link, 17
input/output, 16
power, 20
inputs (user bus), 19
connectors
installation, 15
Camera Link, 18
interface
control configuration, 70
electrical, 9
control signals, 70
mechanical, 9, 12, 13, 62
DALSA 03-032-20024-01

optical, 9, 63 PRNU calibration, 52
L R
LED, 17 random noise, 9
lens readout
modeling, 63 configuring, 31
mounts, 62 resolution, 9
light sources, 63 responsivity, 9
line dropout, 66
line rate, 9
LUT examples, 24 S
LVAL, 69 sensor
LVDS, 69 specifications, 9
pairs, 70 serial communication
reference, 69
M serial interface, 25
defaults, 25
magnification, 64 settings
mechanical factory, 29
interface, 62 specifications
specifications, 9, 12, 13 electrical, 9
mechanical, 9, 12, 13
N operating, 9
optical, 9
noisy output, 67 sensor, 9
O T
online help, 26 Technical Sales Support, 68
operating test pattern, 58
modes, 33 test pattern generator, 58
ranges, 9 timing
optical interface, 63 programmed, 73
optical specifications, 9 standard, 71
troubleshooting, 65
line rates, 66
P serial interface, 66
pixel rate, 32
power V
connector, 20
guidelines, 20 video data, 69
power supply, 20
PRNU, 44
03-032-20024-01 DALSA

Sepera Camexpert

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Sepera Camexpert

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Sepera Camexpert

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Falcon 1.

Camera User’s Manual

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

DALSA Sales Offices

Waterloo Europe Asia Pacific

DALSA Worldwide Operations

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Camera Hardware Interface ____________________________________________________15

Sapera CamExpert Guide ______________________________________________________21

Software Interface: How to Control the Camera _____________________________________25

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Optical and Mechanical Considerations ___________________________________________61

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

6.3.3 Noisy Output........................................................................................................... 67

Camera Link™ Reference, Timing, and Configuration Table ___________________________69

Error Handling and Command List _______________________________________________73

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

1.2 Camera Performance Specifications

Optical Interface Units Notes

Electrical Interface Units Notes

Operating Ranges Units Notes

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Operating Ranges Units Notes

Test conditions unless otherwise noted:

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

1.3 Responsivity and Quantum Efficiency

Falcon 1.4M100 Responsivity Curve

Falcon 1.4M100 QE Curve

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

1.4 Camera Cosmetic Specifications

Definition of cosmetic specifications

Single pixel defect

• A grouping of at most 5 pixel defects within an area of 3*3 pixels.

• A grouping of more than 5 pixel defects within an area of 3*3 pixels.

• A column which has more than 8 pixel defects in a 1*12 kernel.

• Column defects must be horizontally separated by 3 good columns.

• Nominal light = illumination at 50% of saturation.

• Frame Rate = 100fps

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

• Integration time = 9ms

• Temperature of camera front plate is 25°C

(The probability of 21 clusters of 5 is negligible and is only used as an example.)

1.4.2 Cosmetic Specification

Definition of cosmetic specifications

In addition, the camera is examined for the following blemish defects.

• Nominal light = illumination at 50% of saturation.

• Frame Rate = 100fps

• Integration time = 9ms

• Temperature of camera front plate is 25°C

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

This installation 1. Power down all equipment.

4. Before connecting power to the camera, test all power supplies.

6. Connect the mini-Camera Link and power cables.

7. After connecting cables, apply power to the camera.

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine

A note on Camera Link cable quality and length