Basler A500k User manual

Basler A500k
USER’S MANUAL
Document Number: DA000570
Version: 09 Language: 000 (English)
Release Date: 07 August 2012
DRAFT

For customers in the U.S.A.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could
void your authority to operate this equipment.
The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual must be used with this equipment in
order to comply with the limits for a computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
For customers in Canada
This apparatus complies with the Class A limits for radio noise emissions set out in Radio
Interference Regulations.
Pour utilisateurs au Canada
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes Classe A pour bruits radioélectriques, spécifiées dans le
Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique.
Life Support Applications
These products are not designed for use in life support appliances, devices, or systems where
malfunction of these products can reasonably be expected to result in personal injury. Basler
customers using or selling these products for use in such applications do so at their own risk and
agree to fully indemnify Basler for any damages resulting from such improper use or sale.
Warranty Note
Do not open the housing of the camera. The warranty becomes void if the housing is opened.
All material in this publication is subject to change without notice and is copyright
Basler AG.

Contacting Basler Support Worldwide
Europe:
Basler AG
An der Strusbek 60 - 62
22926 Ahrensburg
Germany
Tel.: [phone]
Fax.: [phone]
[email protected]
Americas:
Basler, Inc.
855 Springdale Drive, Suite 203
Exton, PA 19341
U.S.A.
Tel.: [phone]
Fax.: [phone]
[email protected]
Asia:
Basler Asia Pte. Ltd.
8 Boon Lay Way
# 03 - 03 Tradehub 21
Singapore 609964
Tel.: [phone]
Fax.: [phone]
[email protected]
www.baslerweb.com

Contents
BASLER A500kI
DRAFT
Table of Contents
1 Introduction
1.1 Camera Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.2 Performance Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.3 Digital Responsivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1.4 Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1.5 Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
2 Camera Interface
2.1 Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1.1 General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1.2 Pin Assignment for the MDR 26 Camera Link Connector(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.1.3 Pin Assignment for the Power Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.1.4 Pin Assignment for the Flash Trigger Receptacle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.1.5 Pin Assignment for the VGA Monitor Output
(A504k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.2 Cable Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.2.1 Camera Link Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.2.2 Power Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2.3 Camera Link Implementation in the A500k . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2.4 Input Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
2.4.1 ExSync: Controls Frame Readout and Exposure Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
2.4.2 ExFlash from the Frame Grabber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
2.5 Output Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.1 Pixel Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.2 Line Valid Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.3 Frame Valid Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.4 Video Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.5 Video Data Output for the A504k . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
2.5.6 Video Data Output for the A503k . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
2.5.7 Video Data Output for the A501k . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
2.5.8 Flash Trigger Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
2.5.9 VGA Monitor Output (A504k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
2.6 RS-644 Serial Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.6.1 Making the Serial Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.7 Converting Camera Link Output to RS-644 with a k-BIC (A501k Only) . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.8 DC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
2.9 Power Control: Full Function and Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
2.10 Status LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Contents
II BASLER A500k
DRAFT
3 Basic Operation and Features
3.1 Functional Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.2 Exposure Time Control Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.2.1 ExSync Controlled Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.2.2 Free Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.3 Exposure Time Control Modes in Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.3.1 ExSync, Edge-controlled Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.3.1.1 ExSync, Edge-controlled Mode with Asynchronous Timing . . . . . 3-11
3.3.1.2 ExSync, Edge-controlled Mode with Synchronous Timing 1 . . . . . 3-12
3.3.1.3 ExSync, Edge-controlled Mode with Synchronous Timing 2 . . . . . 3-13
3.3.2 ExSync, Level-controlled Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
3.3.2.1 ExSync, Level-controlled Mode with Asynchronous Timing . . . . . 3-15
3.3.2.2 ExSync, Level-controlled Mode with Synchronous/Asynchronous
Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
3.3.2.3 ExSync, Level-controlled Mode with Synchronous Timing 1 . . . . . 3-17
3.3.2.4 ExSync, Level-controlled Mode with Synchronous Timing 2 . . . . . 3-18
3.3.3 ExSync, Programmable Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
3.3.3.1 ExSync, Programmable Mode with Asynchronous Timing . . . . . . 3-20
3.3.3.2 ExSync, Programmable Mode with Synchronous/Asynchronous
Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
3.3.3.3 ExSync, Programmable Mode with Synchronous Timing 1 . . . . . 3-22
3.3.3.4 ExSync, Programmable Mode with Synchronous Timing 2 . . . . . 3-23
3.3.4 Free-run Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
3.3.4.1 Free-run Mode with Asynchronous Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
3.3.4.2 Free-run Mode with Synchronous/Asynchronous Timing . . . . . . . 3-26
3.3.4.3 Free-run Mode with Synchronous Timing 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27
3.3.4.4 Free-run Mode with Synchronous Timing 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28
3.3.5 Free-run VGA Mode (A504k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-29
3.4 Long Exposure Compensation (A504k, A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
3.5 Max Exposure Time at Max Speed (A504k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
3.6 Gain and Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32
3.6.1 Gain Settings in More Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
3.6.2 Offset Settings in More Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
3.7 DSNU Constancy (A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
3.8 Shutterline Correction (A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
3.9 Digital Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
3.9.1 How Digital Shift Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
3.9.2 Precautions When Using Digital Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37
3.10 Area of Interest (AOI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38
3.10.1 Changes to the Maximum Frame Rate with Area of Interest . . . . . . . . . . 3-40
3.10.2 Dynamic Area of Interest (A504k, A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3.10.3 Area of Interest Stamp (A504k, A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3.10.4 Area of Interest with the VGA Monitor Output (A504k Only) . . . . . . . . . . 3-42

Contents
BASLER A500kIII
DRAFT
3.11 Test Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-43
3.11.1 Gray Scale Test Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44
3.11.2 Running Line Test Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44
3.11.3 White Screen Test Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44
3.12 Configuration Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45
3.13 Camera Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46
4 Configuring the Camera
4.1 Configuring the Camera with the Camera
Configuration Tool Plus (CCT+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.1 Opening the Configuration Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.2 Closing the Configuration Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.3 Configuration Tool Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4.1.4 Configuration Tool Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2 Configuring the Camera with Binary
Programming Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.2.1 Command Frame and Response Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
4.2.2 Error Checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.2.2.1 ACK/NAK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.2.2.2 Time-outs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.2.2.3 Read Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.2.2.4 Write Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.2.3 Example Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4.2.3.1 Read Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4.2.3.2 Write Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4.2.3.3 Calculating the Block Check Character . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4.2.4 Commands for Setting Camera Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.2.4.1 Exposure Time Control Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.2.4.2 Timer 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.2.4.3 Timer 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.2.4.4 Long Exposure Compensation (A504k, A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.2.4.5 Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4.2.4.6 Negative Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4.2.4.7 Positive Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.2.4.8 DSNU Constancy and Shutterline Correction Enable
(A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.2.4.9 Shutterline Correction (A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.2.4.10 Digital Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
4.2.4.11 Area of Interest Starting Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
4.2.4.12 Area of Interest Width in Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
4.2.4.13 Area of Interest Starting Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4.2.4.14 Area of Interest Height in Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4.2.4.15 Area of Interest Stamp and Dynamic Area of Interest (A504k,
A503k Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
4.2.4.16 FlashCtrl: Flash Trigger Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22

Contents
IV BASLER A500k
DRAFT
4.2.5 Test Image Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
4.2.6 Query Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4.2.6.1 Read Vendor Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4.2.6.2 Read Model Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4.2.6.3 Read Product ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4.2.6.4 Read Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4.2.6.5 Read Camera Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4.2.6.6 Read EEPROM Firmware Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4.2.6.7 Read Microcontroller Firmware Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
4.2.6.8 Read FPGA Firmware Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
4.2.6.9 Read Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
4.2.7 Commands for Manipulating Configuration Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
4.2.7.1 Copy the Factory Set or the User Set into the Work Set
(Profile Load) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
4.2.7.2 Copy the Work Set into a User Set (Profile Save) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
4.2.7.3 Select the Startup Pointer (Profile Startup) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
4.2.8 Camera Status Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
4.2.9 Bitrate Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
4.2.10 Camera Reset Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
4.2.11 Power Control Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
5 Mechanical Considerations
5.1 Camera Dimensions and Mounting Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.2 F-Mount Adapter Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5.3 Positioning Accuracy of the Sensor Chip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
5.4 Mechanical Stress Test Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
6 Troubleshooting and Support
6.1 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6.1.1 Fault Finding Using the Camera’s LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6.1.2 Troubleshooting Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.1.2.1 No Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.1.2.2 Poor Quality Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
6.1.2.3 Interfacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
6.1.2.4 RS-644 Serial Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6.2 Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
6.2.1 Technical Support Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
6.2.2 Obtaining an RMA Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
6.2.3 Before Contacting Basler Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Revision History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Introduction
Basler A500k1-1
PRELIMINARY
1 Introduction
BASLER A500karea scan cameras are high speed CMOS cameras designed for industrial use.
Good CMOS image sensing features are combined with a robust, high precision manufactured
housing.
Important features are:
• CMOS APS (Active Pixel Sensor) technology
• High speed
• Electronic full frame shutter (True SNAPTM freeze-frame)
• Anti-blooming
• Electronic exposure time control
• Partial scan
• Programmable via an RS-644 serial port
• Industrial housing manufactured with high planar, parallel and angular precision
• VGA monitor output (A504konly)
• Flash trigger output
1.1 Camera Versions
A500kseries area scan cameras are available in different versions; the version depends on the
maximum frame rate.
Throughout the manual, the camera will be called the A500k. Passages that are only valid for a
specific version will be so indicated.
Camera Version Max. Frame Rate Monochrome/Color
A504k500 fps monochrome
A503k402 fps monochrome
A501k74 fps monochrome
Table 1-1: Versions of the A500kSeries Camera

Introduction
1-2 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
1.2 Performance Specifications
The image sensor characteristics were measured at 25 °C.
Specifications A504kA503kA501k
Sensor 1280 H x 1024 V pixel CMOS (1310720 pixels)
Micron MV13 progressive scan
monochrome monochrome monochrome
Pixel Size 12 µm x 12 µm (12 µm pixel pitch)
Fill Factor without micro
lens
40 %
Sensor Imaging Area H: 15.36 mm, V: 12.29 mm, Diagonal: 19.67 mm
Digital Responsivity See section 1.3 and
Figure 1-1.
See section 1.3 and
Figure 1-1.
See section 1.3 and
Figure 1-1.
Shutter Electronic full frame shutter: True SNAPTM (Shuttered-Node Active Pixel)
Shutter Efficiency 99.9 % (typical)
Shutter Exposure Time 10 µs to greater than 33 ms
PRNU (Photo Re-
sponse Non-uniformity)
high spatial frequency: < 0.6 % rms (typical)
low spatial frequency: < 10 % p-p (typical)
DSNU (Dark Signal
Non-uniformity)
high spatial frequency: < 0.4 % rms (typical)
low spatial frequency: < 1.5 % p-p (typical)
Vdrk (output referred
dark signal)
75 LSB/s with digital shift = 0 (typical)
150 LSB/s with digital shift = 1 (typical)
300 LSB/s with digital shift = 2 (typical)
600 LSB/s with digital shift = 3 (typical)
Kdrk (Dark current tem-
perature coefficient)
+100 % at + 8 °C
Pixel Clock Speed 67.58 MHz 50 MHz
Frame Rate Max. 500 fps @ 1280 x
1024
Max. 402 fps @1280 x
1024
Max. 500 fps @ < 1040
x 1024
Max. 74 fps @1280 x
1024
Output Data Rate 625 MBytes/s 502.5 MBytes/s 95 MBytes/s
Pixel Depth 8 Bit out of 10
Video Output Type Channel Link®LVDS,
10 x 8 Data Bits
Channel Link®LVDS, 8
x 8 Data Bits
Channel Link®LVDS, 2
x 8 Data Bits
Video Output Format 10 taps 8 Bit each
Camera Link®Full Con-
figuration (Basler-spe-
cific bit assignment)
8 taps 8 Bit each
Camera Link®Full Con-
figuration
2 taps 8 Bit each;
Camera Link®
Base
Configuration
Synchronization Via external ExSync signal or free-run
Exposure Time Control Edge-controlled, Level-controlled, or Programmable
Table 1-2: A500kPerformance Specifications

Introduction
Basler A500k1-3
PRELIMINARY
Gain and Offset Programmable via the frame grabber via a serial link
Connectors All versions: 26 pin, 0.5“, mini D ribbon (MDR) plug (data)
one 6 pin, Hirose HR (power)
one 4 pin, Hirose HR (flash control)
A504k, A503k: second 26 pin, 0.5“, mini D ribbon (MDR) plug (data)
A504k: one 15 pin, high-density sub female (VGA monitor output)
VGA monitor output 640 x 480 pixels at
60 Hz
-
Power Requirements 12 VDC ± 10 %; max
6W
12 VDC ± 10 %;
max 5.4 W
12 VDC ± 10 %; max
3W
Housing Size
(L x W x H)
without connectors and lens adapter: 41.5 x 90 x 90 mm
with connectors and F-mount adapter: 78.8 x 90 x 90 mm
Lens Adapters F-mount
Weight
without lens adapter:
with F-mount adapter:
~ 510 g
~ 600 g
~ 520 g
~ 610 g
Vibration tested according to DIN IEC 60068-2-6
3 axes, x, y, z
5 - 8.5 Hz / 1.5 mm
8.5 - 150 Hz/ 10 m/s²
Shock tested according to DIN IEC 60068-2-27
3 axes, x, y, z
100 m/s², 11 ms, 3 shocks positive
100 m/s², 11 ms, 3 shocks negative
Bump tested according to DIN IEC 60068-2-29
100 m/s², 11 ms, 100 shocks positive
100 m/s², 11 ms, 100 shocks negative
Conformity CE, FCC
Specifications A504kA503kA501k
Table 1-2: A500kPerformance Specifications

Introduction
1-4 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
1.3 Digital Responsivity
The specified digital responsivity is obtained if the gain is set to 98. In addition, the output depends
on the register setting for the digital shift. The values given are typical values which can vary
between different cameras:
For digital shift = 0: 400 DN/lx s @ 550 nm
For digital shift = 1: 800 DN/lx s @ 550 nm
For digital shift = 2: 1600 DN/lx s @ 550 nm
For digital shift = 3: 3200 DN/lx s @ 550 nm
LSB = least significant bit
See section 3.6.1 for the formula.
Example:
If the gain is set to 98, if digital shift is set to 0, and the quantity of light of 1 lux-sec has hit the
sensor, a gray value of 400 is output.
The quantum efficiency of the sensor is shown in Figure 1-1.
Figure 1-1: Spectral Response for A500kCameras
)

Introduction
Basler A500k1-5
PRELIMINARY
1.4 Environmental Requirements
Temperature and Humidity
Housing temperature during operation: 0 °C ... + 50 °C (+ 32 °F ... + 122 °F)
Humidity during operation: 20 % ... 80 %, relative, non-condensing
Storage temperature: - 20 °C ... + 80 °C (- 4 °F ... + 176 °F)
Storage humidity: 20 % ... 80 %, relative, non-condensing
Ventilation
Allow sufficient air circulation around the camera to prevent internal heat build-up in your system
and to keep the camera housing temperature during operation below the maximum shown above.
Provide additional cooling such as fans or heat sinks if necessary.
You can measure the inner temperature via the temperature register. The maximum
recommended inner temperature is 60 °C (140 °F).
Note that the camera components’ life time and the image quality are higher the
lower the temperature of the camera.

Introduction
1-6 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
1.5 Precautions
Power
Do not remove the camera’s serial number label
If the label is removed and the serial number can’t be read from the camera’s registers, the
warranty is void.
Read the manual
Read the manual carefully before using the camera.
Keep foreign matter outside of the camera
Do not open the housing. Touching internal components may damage them.
Be careful not to allow liquids, dust, sand, flammable, or metallic material inside the camera
housing. If operated with any foreign matter inside, the camera may fail or cause a fire.
Electromagnetic Fields
Do not operate the camera in the vicinity of strong electromagnetic fields. Avoid electrostatic
charging.
Transporting
Only transport the camera in its original packaging. Do not discard the packaging.
Cleaning
Avoid cleaning the surface of the CMOS sensor if possible. If you must clean it, use a soft, lint free
cloth dampened with a small quantity of pure alcohol. Do not use methylated alcohol.
Because electrostatic discharge can damage the CMOS sensor, you must use a cloth that will not
generate static during cleaning (cotton is a good choice).
To clean the surface of the camera housing, use a soft, dry cloth. To remove severe stains, use a
soft cloth dampened with a small quantity of neutral detergent, then wipe dry.
Do not use volatile solvents such as benzine and thinners; they can damage the surface finish.
Caution!
Making or breaking connections when power is on can result in damage to the
camera.
Be sure that all power to your system is switched off before you make or break
connections to the camera.
If you can not switch off power, be sure that the power supply connector is the
last connector plugged when you make connections to the camera, and the
first connector unplugged when you break connections.

Camera Interface
Basler A500k2-1
PRELIMINARY
2 Camera Interface
2.1 Connections
2.1.1 General Description
A500karea scan cameras are interfaced to external circuitry via
• a 26 pin, 0.5“ Mini D Ribbon (MDR) connector to transmit configuration, trigger and image
data via Camera Link,
• a microminiature push-pull lock type receptacle to provide power (12 V) to the camera,
• a microminiature push-pull lock type receptacle to provide a signal for an external flash.
A504kand A503k area scan cameras have additional connectors:
• a second 26 pin, 0.5“ Mini D Ribbon (MDR) connector to transmit further image data via
Camera Link.
• a 15 pin HDSub receptacle for the VGA monitor output (A504konly)
The connectors are located on the back of the camera. Figure 2-1 shows the plugs and the status
LED which indicates signal integrity and power OK.
Caution!
Making or breaking connections when power is on can result in damage to the
camera.
Be sure that all power to your system is switched off before you make or break
connections to the camera.
If you can not switch off power, be sure that the power supply connector is the
last connector plugged when you make connections to the camera, and the
first connector unplugged when you break connections.

Camera Interface
2-2 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
Figure 2-1: A500kConnectors and LED
Figure 2-2: A500kPin Numbering
The camera housing is not grounded and is electrically isolated from the circuit
boards inside of the camera.
Note that the connectors at the camera are described, NOT the connectors required
at the connecting cables.
Status LED
Flash
Power 12 VDC
VGA monitor output
Camera Link 1
Camera Link 2
(A504k and
A503k only)
(A504k only)
41
23
1
2
34
5
6
1
5
6
10
1115
1
13
14
26
1
13
14
26

Camera Interface
Basler A500k2-3
PRELIMINARY
2.1.2 Pin Assignment for the MDR 26 Camera Link Connector(s)
The pin assignment for the MDR 26 pin connector used to interface video data, control signals,
and configuration data is given in Table 2-1. Table 2-2 provides the pin assignment for the second
MDR 26 pin connector which is only available with the A504kand A503k.
Camera Link Connector 1:
Pin
Number
Signal
Name Direction Level Function
1, 13, 14,
261
Gnd Input Ground Ground for the inner shield of the cable
15 X0+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
2X0-
16 X1+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
3X1-
17 X2+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
4X2-
19 X3+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
6X3-
18 XClk+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Transmit clock from Channel Link transmitter
5XClk-
7SerTC+ Input RS-644
LVDS
RS-644 Serial communication data receive,
channel RxD input
20 SerTC-
21 SerTFG+ Output RS-644
LVDS
RS-644 Serial communication data transmit,
channel TxD output
8SerTFG-
22 CC1+ Input RS-644
LVDS
ExSync: External trigger
9CC1-
10 CC2+ Input RS-644
LVDS
ExClk. The input is not supported.
23 CC2-
24 CC3+ Input RS-644
LVDS
ExFlash: External Flash Trigger
11 CC3-
12 CC4+ Input RS-644
LVDS
Not used
25 CC4-
1Pins 1, 13, 14, and 26 are all tied together to GND inside of the camera.
Table 2-1: A500kPin Assignments for the First MDR 26 Pin Connector

Camera Interface
2-4 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
Camera Link Connector 2 (A504kand A503k only):
Pin
Number
Signal
Name Direction Level Function
1, 13, 14,
261
Gnd Input Ground Ground for the inner shield of the cable
15 Y0+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
2Y0-
16 Y1+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
3Y1-
17 Y2+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
4Y2-
19 Y3+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
6Y3-
18 YClk+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Transmit clock from Channel Link transmitter
5YClk-
7T+ Connected to T- with 100R; not used
20 T- Connected to T+ with 100R; not used
21 Z0+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
8Z0-
22 Z1+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
9Z1-
23 Z2+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
10 Z2-
25 Z3+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Data from Channel Link transmitter
12 Z3-
24 ZClk+ Output Channel Link
LVDS
Transmit clock from Channel Link transmitter
11 ZClk-
1Pins 1, 13, 14, and 26 are all tied together to GND inside of the camera.
Table 2-2: A504kand A503k Pin Assignments for the Second MDR 26 Pin Connector

Camera Interface
Basler A500k2-5
PRELIMINARY
2.1.3 Pin Assignment for the Power Connector
The power input connector type is a microminiature push-pull lock type connector, the Hirose
HR 10A-7R-6PB. The power supply should deliver 12 V at a minimum of 500 mA (A504k), 450 mA
(A503k) or 250 mA (A501k) with a voltage accuracy of ±10 %. The pin assignment of the plug is
given in Table 2-3.
You can use the Hirose HR 10A-7P-6S connector for your cable.
2.1.4 Pin Assignment for the Flash Trigger Receptacle
The Flash trigger output connector type is a microminiature push-pull lock type connector, the
Hirose HR 10A-7R-4S. The receptacle provides a signal (FlashOut) for an external flash. This
signal can be programmed via the FlashCtrl register. The signal can be deactivated, or tied to an
“effective exposure“ signal (Integrate Enabled) generated internally, or tied to the external ExFlash
input, or it can be permanently active. The effective exposure is the period when charges are
actually accumulated by the sensor.
The output signal can be set to TTL Active High (default setting), Low Side Switch (Open
Collector), or High Side Switch via the Flash Trigger Modes register (see section 4.2.4.16).
The pin assignment is given in Table 2-4. Figure 2-4 shows the three variants of output schematics
of the flash trigger connector.
You can use the Hirose HR 10A-7P-4P connector for your cable.
The FlashOut signal is short-circuit proof. The signal is electrically isolated from other signals in
the camera. See the timing diagram in Figure 2-3 and the flash trigger output schematics in Figure
2-4.
Pin
Number
Signal
Name Direction Level Function
1, 2 +12 VDC Input 12 VDC ± 10 % DC power
3, 4 not connected
5, 6 DC GND Input Ground DC ground
Table 2-3:A500kPin Assignment for the Power Receptacle
Pin
Number
Signal
Name Direction Level Function
2FlashOut Output Signal Flash trigger; the HIGH signal is current limited
to 50 mA ±20 %.
1, 3 not connected
4DC GND Output Ground DC ground
Table 2-4:A500kPin Assignment for the Flash Trigger Receptacle

Camera Interface
2-6 Basler A500k
PRELIMINARY
Figure 2-3: FlashOut Signal Timing
Figure 2-4: Flash Trigger Output Schematics
Flash
Out
ExFlash
or
Integrate
Enabled
max = 0.3 µs max = 0.3 µs
max
= 1.3 µs (A501k)
= 1 µs (A503k)
= 1 µs (A504k)
max = 1.3 µs (A501k)
= 1 µs (A503k)
= 1 µs (A504k)
TTL Active High (default)
A TTL Active High output signal is
typically used together with a TTL /
CMOS Logic Device.
The TTL Active High output signal
has the following characteristics:
• High output min. 4.5 V at 10 mA
output load, shortcut current
50 mA (+40 %/- 20 %)
• Low output max. 0.5 V at -10 mA
output load, shortcut current
-50 mA (+40 %/- 20 %)
Low Side Switch
(Open Collector)
When you select this output signal
variant, the upper transistor is deac-
tivated, which is shown by grayed
lines in the schematic.
The schematic shows a sample cir-
cuit for your flash device.
Select your flash device to ensure
that the maximum output current
never exceeds 50 mA.
High Side Switch
When you select this output signal
variant, the lower transistor is deac-
tivated, which is shown by grayed
lines in the schematic.
The schematic shows a sample cir-
cuit for your flash device.
Select your flash device to ensure
that the maximum output current
never exceeds 50 mA.