Photron FASTCAM-1024PCI User manual

FASTCAM-1024PCI
Hardware Manual
Rev.1.03E

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.

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
Preface
Thank you for your purchase of Photron’s high-speed camera system, the “FASTCAM-
1024PCI”.
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.
The FASTCAM-1024PCI High-Speed Video Camera System will prove itself a truly
powerful imaging tool, providing solutions for engineers and scientists in such fields as
general research and development, designing, manufacturing, quality assurance,
scientific researches, medical and biological researches, and space and aeronautical
engineering. The FASTCAM-1024PCI seamlessly connects to a PC, becoming an
integral part of the computer, and when combined with it’s easy-to-use control software
provides an image recording and processing system for analyzing captured fast moving
or high-speed events immediately, a task which has often proven difficult with
conventional video systems.
You will find this new recording technology most useful to capture images of high-speed
subjects for subsequent slow-motion observation, motion analysis, and image
processing applications. This manual presents the technical details of the
FASTCAM-1024PCI system and how to operate it.
Remarks:
1. For the best use of the FASTCAM-1024PCI system, please read through this
manual.
2. The content of this manual is based on the best knowledge of the manufacturer.
However, in case any error or missed information is found in this manual, please
inform the manufacturer of such shortcomings immediately. Notwithstanding the
above, the manufacturer is not responsible for any results of the use of this
equipment.
3. Copying all or any part of this manual without permission is prohibited.
4. The content of this manual may be changed any time without prior notice.
5. The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect damages or
loss of profit resulting from the use of this equipment
6. The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for any result of the use of this
equipment.
7. Copying all or any part of the software included in this system without prior written
permission by the author is an infringement of copyright.

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
■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.
Warning

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
■Do not set the system in a location where the temperature gets unusually hot.
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 2,000m 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
0°C or higher than 40°C. Also, prevent condensation from forming during shipment
Caution

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
Image sensor products are sensitive to and at risk of being damaged by Electrostatic
Discharge (ESD).
When handling or cleaning the image sensor, please confirm the following precautions.
■Imaging sensors must be handled in an ESD safe area. Do NOT use
non-ESD apparatus for handling or cleaning the sensor.
■Do NOT use a cleaning apparatus of electrostatic adsorption type (electrified
brush etc.).
■Discharge the human body static electrification before handling or cleaning
works. (e.g. touch the grounded metal.)
■For loose particle contamination, remove particles from the glass by using
an ionized air stream.
■For awful dirt, wipe gently using the synthetic fiber with Isopropyl Alcohol
(IPA). (The coating of the glass surface might peel off when rubbing
strongly.)
A
bout Sensor Cleaning

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
Table of contents
Chapter 1. Set Up................................................................................... 1
1.1. About the System’s Components and Accessories.......................................... 2
1.1.1. Unpacking ................................................................................................. 2
1.2. About the Camera .......................................................................................... 3
1.2.1. Grabber Board........................................................................................... 3
1.2.2. Camera Head and Camera Cable............................................................. 4
1.2.3. Accessories................................................................................................. 6
1.2.4. Connector Specifications........................................................................... 7
1.2.5. Changeable Lens Mount ......................................................................... 10
1.3. Installation of Hardware...............................................................................11
1.3.1. Installing Grabber Board in PC ..............................................................11
1.3.2. Memory Modules..................................................................................... 14
1.3.3. Installation of Pixel Gain/Shading Data................................................ 15
1.4. Setup for Multiple-Camera Recording......................................................... 17
1.4.1. Master/Slave Mode Setup ....................................................................... 18
1.4.2. Connection of Multiple Cameras ............................................................ 19
1.4.3. Setting Up Camera ID Numbers............................................................ 23
1.4.4. Setting Up Software................................................................................ 24
1.4.5. Tips on Multiple-Camera Sync Recording ............................................. 28
1.5. Use of Extended Dynamic Range Mode....................................................... 29
Chapter 2 Appendix........................................................................... 31
2.1. Specifications ............................................................................................... 32
2.1.1. Basic Specifications................................................................................. 32
2.1.2. Specifications – Grabber Board .............................................................. 33
2.1.3. Other Specifications................................................................................ 34
2.1.4. Frame Rate vs. Image Resolution .......................................................... 35
2.1.5 Frame Rate and Image Size .................................................................... 36
2.1.6. Resolution and Shutter Speed ................................................................ 38
2.1.7. Frame Rate vs. Number of Recorded Frames and Record Duration .... 41
2.2. Dimensions................................................................................................... 43
2.2.1. Camera Head (Millimeters) .................................................................... 43
2.2.2. Grabber Board (Millimeters) .................................................................. 44
2.3. Timing of Recording Operations .................................................................. 45
2.3.1. Timing Charts for Recording Operations............................................... 45
2.3.2. Sync Timing in Multi-Camera Operations............................................. 49
2.3.3. Delay of Vertical Sync and Trigger Signals in Multiple-Camera
Operation........................................................................................................... 49
2.3.4. Recording Interval in Random Center and Random Manual Trigger
Modes................................................................................................................. 50
Chapter 3 Contacting Photron ............................................................. 51
3.1 Contact Information...................................................................................... 52

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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Chapter 1. Set Up
1.1. About the System’s Components and Accessories
1.2. About the Camera
1.3. Installation of Hardware
1.4. Setup for Multiple-Camera Recording
1.5. Use of Extended Dynamic Range Mode

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.1. About the System’s
Components and Accessories
1.1.1. Unpacking
The FASTCAM-1024PCI consists of the following items. When you open up the package, be sure
to check all components are present.
1. Camera Head (with Lens Mount and Lens Cap) 1
2. Grabber Board (PCI Board) 1
3. Grabber Board Power Cable 1
4. Camera Cable to Connect between Camera and
Grabber Board (5 meters long) 1
5. C-mount Adapter 1
6. Set of Allen Wrenches (1.5 mm, 2 mm and 4 mm) 1
7. Lens Mount Cap 1
8. External Signal Compound Cable for Input 1
9. External Signal Compound Cable for Output 1
10. FASTCAM Series Driver CD 1
11. Imager Setup CD-ROM 1
12. FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual 1
13. Photron FASTCAM Viewer User’s Manual 1

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.2. About the Camera
The FASTCAM-1024PCI consists of a grabber board (PCI Board), a camera head and a control
software program set.
For each of the system components.
- Do not expose to shock outside.
- Do not use in an area with flammable gas or dust present.
- Do not place in an unstable location such as on a unstable platform or an
incline.
- Do not disassemble or modify.
- Do not expose to liquids such as water.
- Do not subject to excessive force.
1.2.1. Grabber Board
The grabber board of the FASTCAM-1024PCI has been designed so that up to four
FASTCAM-1024PCI boards can be installed in ATX standard PCI slots of a PC.
Note: When you are installing four grabber boards in one PC, the PCI slot right next to the graphics
slot in the PC becomes unusable. This means the PC must have five or more PCI slots in it to
accommodate four grabber boards.
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Camera Connecter
EXT OUT Connecter
EXT IN Connecter
Fixing implement PCI Card Bus Edge
Fixing implement

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.2.2. Camera Head and Camera Cable
The FASTCAM-1024PCI camera head is of lightweight and compact structure specifically
designed for easy handling in varied recording conditions. It takes lenses of C- type mount. A
tripod shoe groove is provided on each side of the camera.
F Mount
C mount
FRONT
FRONT SIDE
SIDE BACK
BACK
Lens Mount
Lens Mount
Camera Cable Connecter
Camera Cable Connecter
Camera head

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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Cable Length : 5ｍ
Camera Cable Connecter (PC)
Camera Cable Connecter (Camera)
Camera Cable

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.2.3. Accessories
EXT OUT/ EXT IN Cables
The Grabber Board has two compound connectors to connect it to external equipment and
devices via cables to receive and send out signals such as external trigger and sync signals. Two
compound cables are included in the package as shown below.
TRIG OUT
GEN OUT
SYNC OUT
SYNC IN
T
-SW IN
T
-TTL IN
Relay Adapter
Relay Adapter

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.2.4. Connector Specifications
In this chapter, the content of the external I/O connector of FASTCAM-1024PCI is describes.
The connector and the cable send and receive the following I/O signals.
(Details of the two compound cables are as follows.)
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EXT OUT
TRG-IN
GEN OUT
TRIG OUT
SYNC OUT
T-TTL IN
T-SW IN
SYNC IN
EXT OUT
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Camera
1. GENERAL Output (GEN OUT) Connector
A BNC connector that outputs the following signals under software control.
Expose pos/neg : Outputs a signal that specifies the exposure period of the sensor. Signal is
present during both LIVE display and recording.
Rec pos/neg : A signal that specifies the recording process period of the Grabber Board.
2. EXTERNAL SYNC Output (SYNC OUT) Connector
A BNC connector that outputs the camera’s vertical sync signal to synchronize external equipment
such as strobe unit and pulsed laser.
3. TRIGGER TTL Output (TRIG OUT) Connector
A BNC connector that outputs trigger signal for slaved boards to follow.
4. TRIGGER TTL IN Input (T-TTL IN) Connector
A BNC connector that receives TTL signal from external source to control the start and end of a
recording in currently selected recording mode. Input signal is a pulse of +5V, 5µsec wide, positive
going. Current is 10mA, recommended, and 20mA maximum.

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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5. TRIGGER SW IN Input (T-SW IN) Connector
A BNC connector whose co-axial cable shield and center conductors are used to send contact
closure signals to control the start and end of a recording in currently selected recording mode.
To avoid possible damage to the camera system, do NOT input signals other than contact closure
to T-SW IN connector.
6. EXTERNAL SYNC Input (SYNC IN) Connector
A BNC connector that receives sync signal from master board or external equipment.

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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TRIGGER TTL IN (T-TTL IN) Input Circuit
TRIGGER SW IN (T-SW IN) Input
EXTERNAL SYNC IN Input
TTL TRIGGER IN +
TTL TRIGGER IN
－
Poly Switch
BLM11B050SB
+5V
+5V
GND
GND
1SS352
1SS352
330Ω
TLP281
10KΩ
TTL TRIGGER
SW TRIGGER IN
Poly Switch
10KΩ
220Ω
0.1uF
+5V
GND
SW
EXT SYNC IN
Poly Switch
+5V
1SS352
1SS352
+5V
100Ω
10KΩ
EXT SYNC
GND

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
- 10 -
1.2.5. Changeable Lens Mount
You can change the lens mount of the FASTCAM-1024PCI depending on the specific need of your
application. Two types of lens mounts - Nikon F type and C type - are available to choose from.
How to change lens mounts (Example: Changing from the F mount to C
mount)
1. Remove and set aside the four retaining screws of the mount using the provided Allen (hex)
wrench.
2. Pull the whole F mount unit away from the camera front plate.
3. Place the C mount unit on the camera front plate. Fasten the unit with the four retaining
screws using the Allen wrench. Make sure that the C mount has been firmly fastened to the
camera front plate.
Use care when fastening the retaining screws. Do not force them too tightly or you may damage
the screws or the screw holes on the camera front plate.

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
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1.3. Installation of Hardware
Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from power outlet before connecting between the
camera head and Grabber Board, and installing the Grabber Board in the PC to avoid electrical
shock and possible damage to the system and/or components.
Remove the cable twist-ties before connecting.
1.3.1. Installing Grabber Board in PC
Follow the procedure below to install the Grabber Board in the PC:
1. Turn off the PC and unplug the power cable.
2. Remove covers of the PC following the PC’s instruction manual.
3. Make sure there are unused PCI slot(s).
4. Remove the metal cover plate in the back of the unused PCI slot where you wish to install the
Grabber Board.
5. Insert the Grabber Board into the unused PCI slot. Firmly press the edge of the Grabber
Board so the connector engages perfectly. Fasten the board with retaining screws.
The position of the guide plate on the end of the Grabber Board can be readjusted by redoing the
retaining screws. See the board guide on the PC to check for the best position for the guide plate.
Insert the board squarely into a PCI slot and fasten it
with screws.
Board fitted with its holder bar along
the board
g
uide
Holder bar

FASTCAM-1024PCI Hardware Manual
- 12 -
6. Connect the power cable to the Grabber Board.
7. Replace the covers on the PC following the instructions in the PC manual.
8. Connect the camera cable to the camera connector on the Grabber Board. Be careful about
the connector orientation. Fasten the retaining screws tightly. Pull the cable lightly to check if
the connector does not come loose.
Fasten connectors firml
y
with retainin
g
screws.
Smaller cable connector Smaller cable connector
connected to Grabber Board
Connection to Board Connection to camera head
Larger cable connector Larger cable connector
connected to Grabber Board