Photron Fastcam SA2 User manual

F
FA AS ST TC CA AM M S SA A2 2
F
FA AS ST TC CA AM M S SA A2 2 R RV V

The copyright of this manual is held by Photron LIMITED.
Product specifications and manual contents can change without advanced notification.
This manual was created taking every possible measure to ensure the accuracy of its contents. However, if you find a section which is unclear, a mistake, or an
omission, please contact Photron LIMITED using the contact information provided at the end of the manual.
Photron LIMITED bears no responsibility for the results of using the product or from following the instructions in this manual.
WARNING
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.
CAUTION:
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment.

Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of Photron's high-speed camera system, the "FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV"
(referred to below as the system).
This manual contains the operating instructions and warnings necessary for using the system.
Before using the system, please read the entire manual.
If any part of this manual is unclear, contact Photron using the contact information printed at the back of the
manual.
After you finish reading the manual, store it in a safe place along with the warranty card and refer back to it
when necessary.
Manual Notation
The following icons and symbols are used in the explanations in this manual.
Icon/Symbol Description
This symbol indicates content that should always be read.
This symbol indicates instructions that should always be
followed when using the software, or things to be careful of
when using the software.
This symbol indicates supplementary items to be aware of
when using the hardware.
This symbol indicates the location of a reference.
This symbol indicates a space you to use for making notes.
" " This symbol is used to indicate the names of items on a
screen, references, dialog names, and connectors.
[ ] This symbol is used to indicate menu names, and sub-menu
names.

Using the Manual
This section explains the layout of the manual.
Introduction
The introduction explains the manual and safety precautions.
Chapter. 1 Overview
This chapter gives an overview of the system and an explanation of its features.
Chapter. 2 Setup
This chapter gives an overview of the components that make up the system. and a list of items that
should be checked before using the system.
Chapter. 3 Recording
This chapter explains overview of the function for recording.
Chapter. 4 Connecting a PC
This chapter explains the procedure for connecting the system to a PC. Refer to the “Photron FASTCAM
Viewer User’s Manual” for additional details on using a PC to control the system.
Chapter. 5 Product Specifications
This chapter explains the system’s specifications.
Chapter. 6 Warranty
This chapter explains about the warranty.
Chapter. 7 Contacting Photron
This chapter lists the contact information to use when contacting Photron if the system malfunctions or if
a portion of the manual is unclear.

Using the System Safely and Correctly
In order to prevent injury to yourself and others, and to prevent damage to property, carefully observe the
following safety precautions.
Photron has given its full attention to the safety of this system. However, the extent of damage and injury
potentially caused by ignoring the content of the safety precautions and using the system incorrectly is
explained next. Please pay careful attention to the content of the safety precautions when using the
system.
This symbol indicates actions that carry the risk that a person could receive a
serious injury.
This symbol indicates actions that carry the risk that a person could receive a
moderate injury, or that damage to physical property might occur.
The safety precautions to be observed are explained with the following symbols.
This symbol indicates actions that require caution.
This symbol indicates actions that are prohibited and must be avoided.
This symbol indicates actions that must always be performed.
Caution
Warning

■Product safety may be spoiled when it is used by the method which does not meet a manual.
■Do not perform actions that will damage the AC cable or plug.
(Do not damage the cable, modify it, use it near a heater, excessively bend, twist
or pull on it, place heavy objects on it, or bundle it.）
Using the cable when damaged can cause fire, electric shock, or a short circuit.
■Do not use the system in a manner which will exceed the rating of the power
outlet or wiring equipment used.
Exceeding the power rating might cause a fire from excessive heat.
■Do not insert metallic objects inside, or pour liquids such as water on, the system.
Doing so can cause fire, electric shock, or malfunction from short circuit or heat.
■Do not disassemble or modify the system.
There are high voltages inside the system that can cause electric shock.
■Do not plug in or unplug the power cord with wet hands.
Doing so can cause electric shock.
■This chapter lists the contact information to use when contacting Photron if the
system malfunctions or if a portion of the manual is unclear.
Not fully plugging in the power cable can cause fire from electric shock or heat.
■When something is wrong with the system, unplug the power cable immediately.
- When a foreign substance or liquid, such as metal or water, gets inside.
- When the outer case is broken or damaged, such as from a fall.
- When the system produces smoke, a strange smell, or strange sound.
Using the system in these conditions might cause a fire or electric shock.
Warning

■Always unplug the system when cleaning it or when it is unused for a long period
of time. Leaving or storing the system connected to the power source might cause
fire from insulation deterioration or electrical discharge.
■Do not set the system in a location where the temperature gets unusually hot.
The trunk and inside of a car can get especially hot in summer.
Doing so can cause the outer case and internal components to deteriorate or cause a fire.
■Do not place the system in a location prone to oily smoke or steam, or in a location with
a lot of humidity or dust.
Oil, moisture, and dust conduct electricity, which can cause a fire or electric shock.
■Ambient temperature 0-40° C, humidity 85% RH or lower, maximum altitude 2000m
or lower.
In addition, if exceeding these limits, use in a condensation-free environment.
Doing so can cause malfunction.
■Do not store the equipment in a location where the temperature goes below -20°C
or higher than 60°C.
Also, prevent condensation from forming during shipment
■This device is for indoor use, do not use it outdoors.
Do not use in a location that has dust. Doing so can cause malfunction.
■When shipping, remove the connecting cable and use the original packaging or a
dedicated carrying case.
Do not ship the equipment in an environment where the temperature goes below
-20°C or higher than 60°C. Also, prevent condensation from forming during shipment
■Since it becomes a cause of trouble, please do not cover a fan.
Caution

Cleaning of the Image Sensor Surface.
■ALWAYS take appropriate anti-static precautions when cleaning or working near the
Image sensor.
■DO NOT use any form of cleaning equipment using electrostatic or ‘charged fiber’ technology.
■Please discharge any electrostatic build up in your body by touching a grounded metallic
Surface before working near the camera sensor.
■Very gently, use only clean and dry air to remove dust from surface of the image sensor.
■To remove stubborn contamination use the highest grade (e.g. VLSI grade) pure
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) with optical wipes of ‘clean room’ grade.
■Extreme care must be taken! Gently wipe across the sensor in a single action.
(DO NOT rub to avoid abrasive damage to delicate optical coatings on the glass surface.)
Cleaning of the Camera Body.
■Use dry or wet cloth to remove dirt from surface of the Body.
■To remove stubborn contamination, use detergent.
Cleaning

Table of Contents
Chapter. 1 Overview 1
1.1. Product Overview and Features ..............................................................................2
Chapter. 2 Setup 3
2.1. System Components and Accessories ....................................................................4
2.1.1. Components................................................................................................4
2.1.2. Accessories/Options ................................................................................... 4
2.1.3. Model ..........................................................................................................5
2.2. Part Names ..............................................................................................................6
2.2.1. Camera Body ..............................................................................................6
2.2.2. Camera Body Part Names .......................................................................... 8
2.2.3. Status Display LEDs on the Rear of the Camera Body ............................10
2.2.4. Interchangeable Lens Mounts...................................................................12
2.2.5. LCD Remote Controller (Optional)............................................................ 13
2.2.6. RS-422 Serial Control ...............................................................................14
2.2.7. I/O Port Connector ....................................................................................15
2.2.8. Power Supply Connector ..........................................................................17
2.3. Device Connections ............................................................................................... 18
2.3.1. Connecting a Video Monitor...................................................................... 18
2.3.2. Connecting the AC Power Supply............................................................. 19
2.3.3. Connecting the LCD Remote Controller (Optional) ..................................20
2.3.4. Connecting a PC.......................................................................................21
Chapter. 3 Recording 23
3.1. Image Initialization (Calibration) ............................................................................24
3.1.1. Executing Calibration ................................................................................24
3.1.2. Saving Calibration Settings....................................................................... 24
3.1.3. Loading Calibration Settings ..................................................................... 24
3.1.4. Calibration Mode....................................................................................... 24
3.1.5. Mechanical shutter ganged operation (Option).........................................25
3.2. Selecting the Frame Rate ......................................................................................25
3.3. Selecting the Resolution ........................................................................................ 26
3.3.1. Resolution Lock ........................................................................................ 26
3.4. Selecting the Shutter Speed .................................................................................. 26
3.4.1. Changing SHUTTER MODE.....................................................................27
3.4.2. Setting Dual Slope Shutter function.......................................................... 27
3.4.3. AUTO EXPOSURE Operation ..................................................................28
3.5. Selecting the Trigger Mode.................................................................................... 30
3.5.1. START Mode............................................................................................. 30
3.5.2. CENTER Mode ......................................................................................... 30
3.5.3. END Mode.................................................................................................31
3.5.4. MANUAL Mode .........................................................................................31
3.5.5. RANDOM Mode ........................................................................................31

3.5.6. RANDOM RESET Mode ........................................................................... 32
3.5.7. RANDOM CENTER Mode ........................................................................ 33
3.5.8. RANDOM MANUAL Mode ........................................................................34
3.5.9. TWO STAGE Mode................................................................................... 35
3.6. LOW LIGHT Mode .................................................................................................36
3.7. VARIABLE Setting ................................................................................................. 36
3.8. White Balance Adjustment (Color Models Only)....................................................37
3.8.1. Using Preset White Balance (Color Models Only) .................................... 37
3.8.2. Using User White Balance (Color Models Only).......................................37
3.9. Color Enhancement Function (Color Models Only) ...............................................38
3.10. LUT (Look-Up Table) Operations ........................................................................... 38
3.10.1. Using a Custom LUT.................................................................................42
3.11. Edge Enhancement Function ................................................................................ 42
3.12. Black Adjust Level.................................................................................................. 42
3.13. Partition Memory & Record....................................................................................43
3.14. Input/Output Signal Types......................................................................................44
3.14.1. TRIG TTL IN Connector ............................................................................ 44
3.14.2. TRIG TTL OUT Connector ........................................................................ 44
3.14.3. TRIG SW IN Connector ............................................................................44
3.14.4. SYNC IN Connector.................................................................................. 44
3.14.5. GENERAL IN Connector........................................................................... 45
3.14.6. GENERAL OUT (1,2,3) Connector ...........................................................45
3.15. Using External Triggers..........................................................................................46
3.15.1. Inputting an External Trigger Signal..........................................................46
3.15.2. Outputting External Trigger Signals ..........................................................48
3.16. Using External Synchronization Signals ................................................................ 49
3.16.1. Inputting an External Synchronization Signal ...........................................49
3.16.2. Outputting an External Synchronization Signal ........................................ 49
3.16.3. Synchronizing Multiple FASTCAM SA2 Systems .....................................50
(Multiple Unit Synchronized Recording) ..................................................................50
3.16.4. Synchronizing the System with Other External Devices........................... 52
(Frame Rate Synchronized Recording)................................................................... 52
3.16.5. Synchronizing the System with Other Cameras ....................................... 54
(Mixed Device Synchronized Recording) ................................................................54
3.17. GENERAL Signal Settings..................................................................................... 55
3.17.1. GENERAL IN Signal Settings ................................................................... 55
3.17.2. GENERAL OUT Signal Settings ...............................................................56
3.18. Signal Delay...........................................................................................................57
3.19. Event Marker Function........................................................................................... 58
3.20. Using USER SW (Programmable Switch) ............................................................. 59
3.21. Using MCDL (Analog Waveform Synchronized Recording Unit)........................... 60
3.22. IRIG Time Code (External Time Synchronization).................................................61
Chapter. 4 Connecting a PC 63
4.1. Connecting the Gigabit Ethernet Interface to a PC ...............................................64
4.1.1. Connecting the System and a PC.............................................................65

4.1.2. Setting the IP Address ..............................................................................65
4.1.3. Using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) ............................... 65
4.1.4. Connecting Multiple Systems and a PC ................................................... 66
4.1.5. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Initialization .....................................................66
Chapter. 5 Product Specifications 67
5.1. Specifications ......................................................................................................... 68
5.1.1. Product Specifications............................................................................... 68
5.1.2. General Specifications .............................................................................. 69
5.1.3. Options......................................................................................................70
5.1.4. Frame Rate and Resolution ...................................................................... 71
5.1.5. Recordable Image Count/Resolution........................................................ 73
5.1.6. Shutter Speed List..................................................................................... 74
5.1.7. List of Frame Rates Selectable with the VARIABLE Setting..................... 76
5.2. Dimensions ............................................................................................................77
5.2.1. Camera Body ............................................................................................77
5.2.2. LCD Remote Controller (Optional)............................................................ 79
5.2.3. AC Power Supply Adapter ........................................................................ 82
5.3. Cleaning the Filter..................................................................................................83
Chapter. 6 Warranty 85
6.1. About the Warranty ................................................................................................86
Chapter. 7 Contacting Photron 87
7.1. Contact Information................................................................................................88

1 FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV Hardware Manual
Chapter. 1 Overview
1.1.Product Overview and Features

Chapter. 1 Overview
2
1.1. Product Overview and Features
The FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV is a powerful engineering tool for use in research and development,
design, production, and quality control, and in numerous fields such as science, medicine, biology,
aviation and space.
As for recording performance, the system can record at a maximum resolution of 2,048x2,048 pixels,
1,080 fps at the full frame resolution, and 2,000 fps at the full high definition resolution of 1,920x1,080
pixels. With this system you can capture various high speed phenomena at unprecedented high
resolution video. Not only high resolution video, the camera also features outstanding recording
performance in the high speed range with a maximum frame rate of 86,400 fps.
Since the camera can be operated in two ways, via the LCD remote controller (optional) or by using
the PC software over a Gigabit Ethernet connection, it can be operated in the desired manner
depending on the conditions and the scene.
The system combines both recording performance and operability, to produce a high speed camera
that is easy to use by anyone. Use the state-of-the-art technology in the FASTCAM SA2 to slow down
and observe high-speed phenomena, and also as an input component for a dynamic image
measurement system. The procedures for operating the system are explained in this manual.
FASTCAM SA2 FASTCAM SA2 RV

3 FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV Hardware Manual
Chapter. 2 Setup
2.1. System Components and Accessories
2.2. Part Names
2.3. Device Connections

Chapter. 2 Setup
4
2.1. System Components and Accessories
2.1.1. Components
The system's standard components are listed below. Remove the components from the packaging
and check the system.
1. Camera Body One
2. AC Power Supply Unit/AC Cable One
3. C Mount Adapter One
4. Hexagonal Lens Mount Adapter Wrench
(1.5 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm) 4 each One
5. Lens Mount Cap (Body Integrated) One
6. I/O Cable One
7. FASTCAM Series Setup Disk (Driver/Application CD) One
8. FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV Hardware Manual (This Manual) One
9. Photron FASTCAM Viewer User's Manual One
10. Making a Gigabit Ethernet Connection (Simple Procedure Manual) One
11. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Cable (LAN Cable) One
2.1.2. Accessories/Options
The following options are available for the system.
1. LCD Remote Controller
2. PL Mount Kit
3. B4 Mount Kit
4. 4 Output Trigger Box
5. MCDL (Analog Waveform Synchronized Recording Unit)
6. Dedicated Carrying Case
7. LCD Monitor Mounting Hardware
8. Accessory Mounting Hardware
9. Spare Power Supply Connector (For Custom Cable Creation)
10. LAN Connector Dust-Proof Cover
11. IDX Battery Cable
12. Lens Mount with Filter Changer (Triple Type / Single Type)
13. Mechanical shutter (F mount and C mount)

5 FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV Hardware Manual
2.1.3. Model
The system's models are split according to color/monochrome, and there are a total of six models
according to the amount of memory.
The models are listed below.
Max. Frame Rate Sensor Type Memory Model Name
86,400FPS
Color
8GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-C1
16GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-C2
32GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-C3
Monochrome
8GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-M1
16GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-M2
32GB FASTCAM SA2 86K-M3
"RV (Range Version) type” is prepared for each model.
It has be sealed-up a camera chassis for keep it free of dust.

Chapter. 2 Setup
6
2.2. Part Names
The system is composed of components including the camera body, AC power supply, and the
"Photron FASTCAM Viewer" controls software (referred to below as PFV).
For each of the system components.
- Do not expose to shock outside of specifications.
- Do not use in an area with flammable gas or dust present.
- Do not place in an unstable location such as on a wobbly platform or an incline.
- Do not disassemble or modify.
- Do not expose to liquids such as water.
- Do not use in a manner where excessive force is applied.
- Only the accessories which fulfill a manufacturer's specification should be used for peculiar
accessories, such as an AC adaptor and a battery.
- Please use an external power supply with the suitable rating which was estimated by IEC/EN
61010-1 3rd Edition (complied with Cl. 6.3 and Cl. 9.4) or IEC/EN 60950-1 2nd Edition (complied
with Cl. 2.2 and Cl. 2.5), and separated from the main circuit by double insulation or reinforced
insulation.
2.2.1. Camera Body
The system has monochrome and color models, and for each of those models there are three types:
standard 8GB of memory and 16GB and 32GB large capacity types. You can select from these
models according to the desired application when purchasing.
The camera body contains IC memory for recording images and has been designed with the
capability to save high-speed images as uncompressed digital data. The camera body has HD
SDI/video output connectors that can playback recorded images on a video monitor, a Gigabit
Ethernet interface to connect to a PC to fully control the camera or download data, various I/O
(input/output) connectors for external synchronization/trigger signals, and an interface to record
IRIG/GPS time code/MCDL analog waveform.

7 FASTCAM SA2 / SA2 RV Hardware Manual
Apperance Rear
FASTCAM SA2 RV
Apperance Rear
FASTCAM SA2

Chapter. 2 Setup
8
2.2.2. Camera Body Part Names
Handle
F Mount Front
Front
HD SDI
HD SDI Output Connecto
r
V
IDEO OUT
V
ideo Output Connecto
r
I/O Port
I/O Port Connector
USER S
W
Programmable Switch
Status Display LEDs
Handle
Duct (filter)
KEYPAD
KEYPAD Connector Rear
DC18-36V 100VA
Power Supply Connector
Gigabit ETHER
Gigabit Ethernet
LAN Cable Connector
POWER SW
Power Supply Switch
GIGABIT ETHER I/ O PO RT
KEYPAD
PO WE R
POWER TRIGGER IRIG REC
IF RECSYNC SYNC
LINK/TRANS READYMODE IN
US ER 1 US ER 2 US ER 3 US ER 4
VI DE O OU T
HD SDIHD SDIDC 18 -3 6V 1 00 VA
FASTCAM SA2