Photron Fastcam SA3 User manual

F
FA AS ST TC CA AM M S SA A3 3

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 SA3” (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 supplementary items to be aware of
when using the software.
This symbol indicates the location of a reference.
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 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. It also explains basic keypad
operation and a list of items that should be checked before using the system.
Chapter. 3 Recording
This chapter explains operations related to 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 then 60°C. Also, prevent condensation from forming during shipment
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. Type ............................................................................................................5
2.2. Part Names ..............................................................................................................6
2.2.1. Camera Body ..............................................................................................6
2.2.2. Camera Body Part Names .......................................................................... 7
2.2.3. Status Display LEDs on the Rear of the Camera Body ..............................8
2.2.4. Interchangeable Lens Mounts................................................................... 10
2.2.5. LCD Remote Controller (Optional)............................................................ 11
2.2.6. RS-422 Serial Control ...............................................................................12
2.2.7. I/O Port Connector ....................................................................................13
2.2.8. Power Supply Connector ..........................................................................15
2.3. Device Connections ............................................................................................... 16
2.3.1. Connecting a Video Monitor...................................................................... 16
2.3.2. Connecting the AC Power Supply.............................................................17
2.3.3. Connecting the LCD Remote Controller (Optional) ..................................18
2.3.4. Connecting a PC.......................................................................................19
2.3.5. Factory Default Setting .............................................................................19
2.3.6. Memory Backup Battery (Option) ...........................................................19
Chapter. 3 Recording 21
3.1. Image Initialization (Calibration) ............................................................................22
3.1.1. Executing Calibration ................................................................................22
3.1.2. Saving Calibration Settings....................................................................... 22
3.1.3. Loading Calibration Settings ..................................................................... 22
3.2. Selecting the Frame Rate ......................................................................................23
3.3. Selecting the Resolution ........................................................................................ 23
3.4. Selecting the Shutter Speed ..................................................................................24
3.4.1. Changing SHUTTER MODE.....................................................................24
3.5. DS SHUTTER Function .........................................................................................25
3.6. AUTO EXPOSURE Operation ...............................................................................26
3.7. Selecting the Trigger Mode....................................................................................28
3.7.1. START Mode.............................................................................................28
3.7.2. CENTER Mode ......................................................................................... 28
3.7.3. END Mode.................................................................................................29
3.7.4. MANUAL Mode .........................................................................................29
3.7.5. RANDOM Mode ........................................................................................29
3.7.6. RANDOM RESET Mode ........................................................................... 30
3.7.7. TWO STAGES Mode ................................................................................ 31

3.8. LOW LIGHT Mode .................................................................................................32
3.9. VARIABLE Setting ................................................................................................. 32
3.10. White Balance Adjustment (Color Types Only)...................................................... 33
3.10.1. Using Preset White Balance (Color Types Only) ......................................33
3.10.2. Using User White Balance (Color Types Only).........................................33
3.11. Color Enhancement Function (Color Types Only) .................................................34
3.12. LUT (Look-Up Table) Operations ........................................................................... 34
3.12.1. Using Preset LUT Patterns .......................................................................34
3.12.2. Using a Custom LUT.................................................................................37
3.13. Edge Enhancement Function ................................................................................37
3.14. Partition Memory & Record....................................................................................37
3.15. Input/Output Signal Types...................................................................................... 38
3.15.1. TRIG TTL IN Connector ............................................................................ 38
3.15.2. TRIG TTL OUT Connector ........................................................................ 38
3.15.3. TRIG SW IN Connector ............................................................................38
3.15.4. SYNC IN Connector..................................................................................38
3.15.5. GENERAL IN Connector...........................................................................39
3.15.6. GENERAL OUT (1,2,3) Connector ...........................................................39
3.16. Using External Triggers.......................................................................................... 40
3.16.1. Inputting an External Trigger Signal.......................................................... 40
3.16.2. Outputting External Trigger Signals ..........................................................42
3.17. Using External Synchronization Signals ................................................................ 43
3.17.1. Inputting an External Synchronization Signal ...........................................43
3.17.2. Outputting an External Synchronization Signal ........................................ 43
3.17.3. Synchronizing Multiple FASTCAM SA3 Systems(Multiple Unit
Synchronized Recording) .................................................................................................. 44
3.17.4. Synchronizing the System with Other External Devices (Frame Rate
Synchronized Recording) .................................................................................................. 46
3.17.5. Synchronizing the System with Other Cameras (Mixed Device
Synchronized Recording) .................................................................................................. 48
3.18. GENERAL Signal Settings.....................................................................................49
3.18.1. GENERAL IN Signal Settings ...................................................................49
3.18.2. GENERAL OUT Signal Settings ...............................................................50
3.19. Signal Delay...........................................................................................................51
3.20. Event Marker Function...........................................................................................52
3.21. Using USER SW (Programmable Switch) ............................................................. 53
3.22. Using MCDL (Multi Channel Data Link).................................................................54
3.23. IRIG Time Code (External Time Synchronization).................................................55
3.24. IRIG-sync Operation ..............................................................................................56
3.25. 8bit Recording Mode..............................................................................................57
3.26. Direct Trigger / Direct Start Mode ..........................................................................58
Chapter. 4 Connecting a PC 59
4.1. Connecting the Gigabit Ethernet Interface to a PC ...............................................60
4.1.1. Connecting the System and a PC.............................................................61
4.1.2. Setting the IP Address ..............................................................................61

4.1.3. Using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) ............................... 61
4.1.4. Connecting Multiple Systems and a PC ................................................... 62
4.1.5. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Initialization .....................................................62
4.1.6. Camera IP Address Initialization ............................................................... 62
Chapter. 5 Product Specifications 63
5.1. Specifications ......................................................................................................... 64
5.1.1. Product Specifications............................................................................... 64
5.1.2. General Specifications ..............................................................................65
5.1.3. Options...................................................................................................... 66
5.1.4. Frame Rate and Resolution ...................................................................... 68
5.1.5. Recordable Image Count/Resolution........................................................79
5.1.6. Recordable Image Count/ Resolution (Bit depth) .....................................80
5.1.7. Shutter Speed List..................................................................................... 81
5.2. Dimensions ............................................................................................................82
5.2.1. Camera Body ............................................................................................82
5.2.2. AC Power Supply Unit .............................................................................. 83
5.2.3. Memory Back up Battery...........................................................................83
Chapter. 6 Warranty 85
6.1. About the Warranty ................................................................................................ 86
Chapter. 7 Contacting Photron 87
7.1. Contact Information................................................................................................88

1 FASTCAM SA3 Hardware Manual
Chapter. 1 Overview
1.1. Product Overview and Features

Chapter. 1 Overview
2
1.1. Product Overview and Features
The FASTCAM SA3 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. The system features superior basic performance with megapixel resolution, an
ultra-sensitive image sensor capable of clear recording in low-light, and an ultra-high speed frame
rate of a maximum of 120,000fps (60K type: 60,000fps) It also employs a hybrid design to allow
operation via the LCD remote controller (optional) and operation from the PC software via a gigabit
Ethernet connection to more easily implement analysis of dynamic bodies that had been difficult to
analyze until now.
Use the state-of-the-art technology in the FASTCAM SA3 to slow down and observe high-speed
dynamic bodies and also as an input component for a dynamic image measurement system.

3 FASTCAM SA3 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 1
2. AC Power Supply Unit / AC Cable 1
3. Hexagonal Lens Mount Adapter Wrench
(1.5 mm, 2 mm, 4 mm) 1 each
4. G type F Mount Cap (body integrated) 1
5. FASTCAM Series Setup Disk (Driver / Application DVD) 1
6. FASTCAM SA3 Hardware Manual (This Manual) 1
7. Photron FASTCAM Viewer User's Manual 1
8. Making a Gigabit Ethernet Connection (Simple Procedure Manual) 1
9. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Cable (LAN Cable) 1
2.1.2. Accessories/Options
The following options are available for the system.
1. LCD Remote Controller
2. I/O Cable
3. 4 Output Trigger Box
4. F Mount Adapter (cap integrated)
5. C Mount Adapter (cap integrated)
6. PL Mount Adapter (cap integrated)
7. Spare Power Supply Connector (For Creating a Custom Cable)
8. Dust-Proof Cover for the LAN Connector
9. Carrying Case
10. Memory Backup Battery
11. External Battery for Operation

5 FASTCAM SA3 Hardware Manual
2.1.3. Type
The system is split into types according to frame rate, color/monochrome, and amount of memory.
There are a total of 12 types according to the combination of options.
The types are listed below.
Max. Frame Rate Sensor Memory Type Name
120,000FPS
Color
2GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-C1
4GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-C2
8GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-C3
Monochrome
2GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-M1
4GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-M2
8GB FASTCAM SA3 type 120K-M3
60,000FPS
Color
2GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-C1
4GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-C2
8GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-C3
Monochrome
2GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-M1
4GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-M2
8GB FASTCAM SA3 type 60K-M3

Chapter. 2 Setup
6
2.2. Part Names
The system is composed of components including the camera body, AC power supply unit, 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 types, and additionally for each separate type there is a
standard 2 GB memory capacity type and a large capacity 8 GB type. You can select from these
types according to the desired application when purchasing.
The camera body contains IC memory for saving images and has been designed with the capability
to save high-speed images as uncompressed digital data. The camera body has a video output
connector that can playback recorded images on a video monitor, a Gigabit Ethernet interface to
connect a PC to fully control the camera or download data, and interfaces for various I/O
(input/output) connectors for external synchronization/trigger signals.
Apperance Rear

7 FASTCAM SA3 Hardware Manual
2.2.2. Camera Body Part Names
Handle
G type F Mount Plate
Front
I/O PORT
I/O Port Connector
Status Display LEDs
KEYPAD
KEYPAD Connector
DC22-32V 60VA
Power Supply Connector
GIGABIT EHTER
Gigabit Ethernet
LAN Cable Connector
POWER
Power Supply Switch
Rear
VIDEO OUT
Video Output Connector
USER
Programmable Switch

Chapter. 2 Setup
8
2.2.3. Status Display LEDs on the Rear of the Camera Body
There are a number of LEDs on the rear of the system's camera body. These LEDs indicate the
status of the system. The meaning of each LED is explained here.
Status Display LEDs
POWER (Green)
LED ON: Power On
LED OFF: Power Off
IF LINK/TRANS (Red)
LED ON: The Gigabit Ethernet interface is connected
LED FLASHING: Data is transferring
LED OFF: The Gigabit Ethernet interface is not connected
TRIGGER (Yellow)
LED ON: A trigger signal has been input (illuminates for 0.1 s when the trigger signal is input)
LED OFF: A trigger signal has not been input
IRIG (Green)
LED ON: An IRIG/GPS signal is being input
LED OFF: An IRIG/GPS signal is not being input
SYNC MODE (Red)
LED ON: In external synchronization mode
LED OFF: In internal synchronization mode
SYNC IN (Yellow)
LED ON: A synchronization signal is being input
LED OFF: A synchronization signal is not being input
REC READY (Yellow)
LED ON: Ready to record
LED FLASHING: ENDLESS recording ("REC" LED also simultaneously flashes)
LED OFF: Not ready to record
REC (Red)
LED ON: Ready to record (The case of “ENDLESS” recording mode)
LED FLASHING: Recording
LED OFF: Not ready to record