Photron FASTCAM SA-X2 User manual

F
FA AS ST TC CA AM M S SA A- -X X2 2
F
FA AS ST TC CA AM M S SA A- -X X2 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 SA-X2 / SA-X2 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 thecontact 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 system.
This symbol indicates the location of a reference.
This symbol indicates a space for you to make 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

■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.
■Do not use the accessories by the usage that a manufacturer does not specify. It may
cause damage of protection.
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.
■Please consult us in advance when you perform an event by which laser light or direct rays
fall on the image sensor surface.
■ 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 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. *Without SA-X RV
■ 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
Caution

These symbols indicate that this product is not to be disposed of with your household
waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC), the Battery Directive
(2006/66/EC) and/or your national laws implementing those Directives.
This product should be handed over to a designated collection point, e.g., on an
authorized one-for-one basis when you buy a new similar product or to an authorized
collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and
batteries and accumulators. Improper handling of this type of waste could have a
possible impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous
substances that are generally associated with EEE. Your cooperation in the correct
disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage of natural resources.
For more information about the recycling of this product, please contact your local city
office, waste authority, approved scheme or your household waste disposal service or
visit www.photron.com.
(EEA: Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein)
European Union (and EEA) only

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) events may cause immediate and unrecoverable damage to the
image sensor. Please read the following instructions and take EXTREME CARE when cleaning 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 Image Sensor Surface

To assist in preventing data lost by a system shutdown induced from a lightning surge and the like,
please add the supplied ferrite core to the power cable approximately 200 mm (approximately 8
inches) from the system connector. The power cable should pass through the core three times.
Please see illustrations below.
Put the ferrite core to the AC adapter

Table of Contents
Chapter. 1 Overview 1
1.1. Product Overview and Features..............................................................................2
Chapter. 2 Setup 3
2.1. About the System’s 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..........................................................................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. Remote Keypad (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
2.2.9. SD Memory Card Slots .............................................................................18
2.3. Device Connections...............................................................................................19
2.3.1. Connecting a Video Monitor......................................................................19
2.3.2. Connecting the AC Power Supply.............................................................20
2.3.3. Connecting the Keypad (Optional)............................................................21
2.3.4. Connecting a PC.......................................................................................22
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. The operation of the Mechanical shutter ..................................................25
3.2. Selecting the Frame Rate......................................................................................26
3.2.1. Switching Frame Rate (13.5K mode Function).........................................26
3.3. Selecting the Resolution........................................................................................27
3.4. Selecting the Shutter Speed..................................................................................27
3.5. Dual Slope Shutter.................................................................................................29
3.6. AUTO EXPOSURE Operation...............................................................................30
3.7. Image Trigger.........................................................................................................32
3.8. Selecting the Trigger Mode....................................................................................34
3.8.1. START Mode.............................................................................................34
3.8.2. CENTER Mode .........................................................................................34
3.8.3. END Mode.................................................................................................35
3.8.4. MANUAL Mode .........................................................................................35
3.8.5. RANDOM Mode........................................................................................35
3.8.6. RANDOM RESET Mode...........................................................................36

3.8.7. RANDOM CENTER Mode........................................................................37
3.8.8. RANDOM MANUAL Mode........................................................................38
3.9. LOW LIGHT Mode.................................................................................................39
3.10. VARIABLE Setting .................................................................................................39
3.11. White Balance Adjustment (Color Models Only)....................................................40
3.11.1. Using Preset White Balance (Color Models Only)....................................40
3.11.2. Using User White Balance (Color Models Only).......................................40
3.12. Color Enhancement Function (Color Models Only)...............................................41
3.13. Look-Up Table (LUT) Operations...........................................................................41
3.13.1. Using a Custom LUT.................................................................................44
3.14. Edge Enhancement Function ................................................................................44
3.15. Partition Memory & Record....................................................................................44
3.16. Simultaneous Replay/Record Function .................................................................45
3.17. Input / Output Signal Types ...................................................................................46
3.17.1. TRIG TTL IN Connector............................................................................46
3.17.2. TRIG TTL OUT Connector........................................................................46
3.17.3. TRIG SW IN Connector ............................................................................46
3.17.4. SYNC IN Connector..................................................................................46
3.17.5.GENERAL IN Connector...........................................................................47
3.17.6. GENERAL OUT (1, 2, 3) Connector .........................................................47
3.18. Using External Triggers .........................................................................................48
3.18.1. Inputting an External Trigger Signal..........................................................48
3.18.2. Outputting External Trigger Signals..........................................................50
3.19. Using External Synchronization Signals................................................................51
3.19.1. Inputting an External Synchronization Signal...........................................51
3.19.2. Outputting an External Synchronization Signal ........................................51
3.19.3. Synchronization with a variable frequency ...............................................52
3.19.4. Synchronizing Multiple FASTCAM SA-X Systems....................................53
(Multiple Unit Synchronized Recording) ...................................................53
3.19.5. Synchronizing the System with Other External Devices...........................55
(Frame Rate Synchronized Recording) ....................................................55
3.19.6. Synchronizing the System with Other Cameras.......................................58
(Mixed Device Synchronized Recording)..................................................58
3.20. GENERAL Signal Settings.....................................................................................59
3.20.1. GENERAL IN Signal Settings ...................................................................59
3.20.2. GENERAL OUT Signal Settings ...............................................................60
3.21. Signal Delay...........................................................................................................61
3.22. Event Marker Function...........................................................................................62
3.23.Using Programmable Switch (USER SW).............................................................63
3.24. IRIG Time Code (External Time Synchronization).................................................64
3.25. IRIG-sync Operation..............................................................................................65
3.26. 8bit Recording Mode..............................................................................................66
3.27. Direct Trigger / Direct Start Mode ..........................................................................67
Chapter. 4 Connecting a PC 69
4.1. Connecting the Gigabit Ethernet Interface to a PC ...............................................70

4.1.1. Connecting the System and a PC.............................................................71
4.1.2. Setting the IPAddress ..............................................................................71
4.1.3. Using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)...............................72
4.1.4. Connecting Multiple Systems and a PC ...................................................72
4.1.5. High-speed Download Feature.................................................................72
4.1.6. Simultaneous Replay/Record Function ....................................................73
4.1.7. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Initialization.....................................................73
4.1.8. Camera IP Address Initialization...............................................................73
Chapter. 5 Product Specifications 75
5.1. Specifications.........................................................................................................76
5.1.1. Product Specifications ..............................................................................76
5.1.2. General Specifications..............................................................................77
5.1.3. Options......................................................................................................78
5.1.4. Frame Rate and Resolution......................................................................80
5.1.5. Shutter Speed List (uncertain interval extension: Disable).......................84
5.1.6. Shutter Speed List (uncertain interval extension: Disable).......................85
5.1.7. Shutter Speed List (13.5K mode OFF / uncertain interval extension:
(Enable).....................................................................................................86
5.1.8. Recordable Image Count/Resolution (12bit).............................................87
5.1.9. Recordable Image Count/Resolution (8bit)...............................................87
5.1.10. Recordable Times/Resolution (12bit)........................................................88
5.1.11. Recordable Times/Resolution (8bit)..........................................................88
5.2. Dimensions............................................................................................................89
5.2.1. Camera Body (F Mount) ...........................................................................89
5.2.2. Camera Body (C Mount)...........................................................................91
5.2.3. Remote Keypad (Optional) .......................................................................93
5.2.4. LCD Remote Keypad (Optional)...............................................................94
5.2.5. AC Power Supply Unit ..............................................................................95
Chapter. 6 Warranty 97
6.1. About the Warranty................................................................................................98
Chapter. 7 Contacting Photron 99
7.1. Contact Information..............................................................................................100

1 FASTCAM SA-X2 / RV Hardware Manual
Chapter. 1 Overview
1.1. Product Overview and Features

Chapter. 1 Overview
2
1.1. Product Overview and Features
The FASTCAM SA-X2 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 mega pixel resolution, an
ultra-sensitive image sensor capable of clear recording in low-light, and an ultra-high speed frame,
rate of a maximum of 480,000 fps (frame per second). It also employs a hybrid design to allow
operation via a monitor keypad 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 SA-X2 to slow down and observe
high-speed dynamic bodies or events, and also as an input component for a dynamic image
measurement system.
FASTCAM SA-X2

3 FASTCAM SA-X2 / RV Hardware Manual
Chapter. 2 Setup
2.1. About the System’s Components and Accessories
2.2. Part Names
2.3. Device Connections

Chapter. 2 Setup
4
2.1. About the System’s Components and Accessories
2.1.1. Components
The system’s standard components are listed below. Remove the components from the packaging
and check them.
1. Camera Body (with G type F mount) One
2. AC Power Supply Unit/AC Cable One
3. C-mount One
4. Hexagonal Wrench for Changing Lens Mounts
(1.5 mm, 2 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm) One each
5. Lens Mount Cap (built into the camera body) One
6. I/O (Input and Output) Cable One
7. FASTCAM Series Setup Disk (Driver/Application DVD) One
8. FASTCAM SA-X2 Hardware Manual (this manual) One
9. Photron FASTCAM Viewer (PFV) User's Manual One
10. How to Make a Gigabit Ethernet Connection
(Simple Procedure Manual) One
11. Gigabit Ethernet Interface Cable (LAN Cable) One
12. Ferrite core for AC cable One
13. Fitting ferrite core to the AC power cable (notice paper) One
2.1.2. Accessories/Options
The following options are available for the system.
1. Remote Controller
2. LCD Remote Controller
3. 4 channel Output Trigger Box
4. Specialized Carrying Case
5. Specialized Spare Power Supply Connector (for custom cable construction)
6. Specialized LAN Connector Anti-Dust Shell
7. Specialized EF Mount Adapter
The accessories use only accessories meeting the specifications of the manufacturer.

5 FASTCAM SA-X2 / RV Hardware Manual
2.1.3. Type
For the FASTCAM SA-X2 system, there are monochrome and color versions, and EF mount option,
for each of these versions, there are 8 GB standard memory capacity type and 16 GB (or 32GB,
64GB) high capacity type. When purchasing, it is possible to select from these models according to
the application or your demands.
The Types are listed below.
Max.
Frame Rate
Sensor
Type
EF
Support
Memory Type Name
480,000fps
Color
Yes
8GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C1E
16GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C2E
32GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C3E
64GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C4E
No
8GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C1
16GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C2
32GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C3
64GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -C4
Monochro
me
Yes
8GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M1E
16GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M2E
32GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M3E
64GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M4E
No
8GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M1
16GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M2
32GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M3
64GB
FASTCAM SA-X2 type 480K -M4
•“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
Apperance
Rear
2.2. Part Names
The system is composed of components including the camera body, AC power supply, and the
"Photron FASTCAM Viewer" control software (referred to below as PFV).
For each of the system components.
- Do not expose to shock.
- Do not use in an area where flammable gas or dust present is present.
- Do not place in an unstable location such as on an unstable platform or an incline.
- Do not disassemble or modify.
- Do not expose to liquids such as water.
- Do not subject to excessive force.
2.2.1. Camera Body
The camera body contains IC memory for image recording and has been designed to be able to
record high-speed images uncompressed. The back of the camera body is equipped with the video
output terminals, which can playback the recorded images on a video monitor; the Gigabit Ethernet
interface, which permits full camera control and data download possible via connection to a PC; the
input/output connector, which allows external synchronization signals, trigger signals, IRIG time
code.
FASTCAM SA-X2