THORLABS LP126MU User manual

LP126MU(/M) and LP126CU(/M)
Low-Profile Scientific
Digital Cameras
User Guide

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Safety.........................................................................................................................1
1.2.1 Service................................................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2.2 Accessories and Customization........................................................................................................................... 2
Chapter 2 Introduction ...............................................................................................................3
Chapter 3 Setup and Installation.................................................................................................5
3.2.1 Run the Installation File....................................................................................................................................... 5
3.2.3 Driver Selection................................................................................................................................................... 5
3.2.4 Installing 3rd Party Software Application Support ............................................................................................... 8
3.3.1 Multiple Camera Operation ................................................................................................................................ 8
3.4.1 Using a C-Mount Lens ......................................................................................................................................... 9
3.4.2 Mounting the Camera ......................................................................................................................................... 9
3.4.3 Using the Camera with a Cage System .............................................................................................................. 10
3.4.4 SM1 Compatible Threads .................................................................................................................................. 10
3.5.1 Description of Components............................................................................................................................... 10
3.6.1 Window Removal and Replacement Procedure................................................................................................ 11
3.6.2 Re-Assembly of the Window, C-Mount Adapter, and Flange Focus Adjustment.............................................. 11
3.7.1 I/O Port Descriptions......................................................................................................................................... 12
3.7.2 Auxiliary Cable................................................................................................................................................... 12
Chapter 4 Operation.................................................................................................................13
4.2.1 Camera-Specific Timing Considerations ............................................................................................................ 15
Chapter 5 LP126MU(/M) Specifications.....................................................................................17

Chapter 6 LP126CU(/M) Specifications......................................................................................19
Chapter 7 Protective Glass Windows.........................................................................................21
Chapter 8 Mechanical Drawings................................................................................................23
Chapter 9 Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................24
Chapter 10 Maintenance ............................................................................................................27
Chapter 11 Regulatory................................................................................................................29
Chapter 12 Warranty..................................................................................................................32

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras
Chapter 13 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ...................................................................................33

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 1: Safety
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 1
Chapter 1 Safety
Precautions
Please read the instruction manual carefully before operating your Digital Camera. All statements regarding safety
and technical specifications will only apply when the unit is operated correctly.
Refer to this User’s Guide whenever the following symbols are encountered on the Digital Camera and Power
Supply.
Attention
This symbol indicates that additional information is available in this user guide.
This equipment is intended for laboratory use only and is not certified for medical applications,
including but not limited to, life support situations.
Transportation and delivery may cause the Digital Camera to be warm or cool upon receipt.
Please wait for the device to reach room temperature before attempting to operate.
Warranty Warning
Do not open the Digital Camera. There are no user-serviceable parts in this product. Opening the
device will void your warranty. Any modification or servicing of this system by unqualified
personnel renders Thorlabs free of any liability. This device can only be returned when packed
into the complete original packaging, including all foam packing inserts. If necessary, ask for
replacement packaging. Please contact Thorlabs’ Technical Support,[e-mail]
and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Caution
This product is powered directly from the USB 3.0 port of a host computer (not included). To
ensure optimal performance and the safety of the user, the host computer must use a properly
grounded UL Listed or Recognized AC-DC power supply (or comparable regulatory approvals).
Dangerous voltage exists within the power supply. Do not tamper with or open the supply under
any circumstances. Doing so may expose lethal voltage to personnel and will void the warranty
of the computer.

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Product Care
Handle the camera with care during transportation and unpacking. Bumping or dropping the camera can damage
the unit or lower camera performance. If the camera is mishandled during shipment, the optical components may
become misaligned, which could lead to a decrease in the image quality. If this happens, the camera will need to
be realigned by qualified personnel. To ensure proper care and operation of your Low-Profile Scientific Digital
Camera, please follow the handling instructions below.
•Do not store or operate in a damp, closed environment.
•Do not use solvents on or near the equipment.
•Keep away from dust, dirt, and air-borne pollutants (including cigarette smoke). The camera is not
designed for outdoor use. Protect the equipment from rain, snow, and humidity.
•Do not expose to mechanical or thermal extremes. Protect the equipment from rapid variation in
temperature.
•Handle all connectors with care. Do not use unnecessary force as this may damage the connectors.
•Clean using a soft, lint-free cloth. Use of isopropyl alcohol is permitted, however do not immerse in any
liquid or solvent.
•Clean any accessible optical surfaces with an appropriate optics-grade tissue or cloth.
1.2.1 Service
Only trained and approved Thorlabs’ personnel should service the camera. Please contact Thorlabs’ Technical
Support at [e-mail] and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
1.2.2 Accessories and Customization
Although the camera is easily adapted for custom interfaces, to achieve the listed specifications, this camera
should only be used with accessories provided by Thorlabs. Any modification or servicing by unqualified personnel
renders the warranty null and void, leaving Thorlabs free of liability. Please contact Thorlabs for questions on
customization.
All cameras are supplied with one USB3.0 cable. These cables are constructed to provide reliable data
throughput at a length of 3 m. Do not replace this cable with a 3 m cable from a different vendor. The use of a
shorter cable (1 m or 2 m) might be acceptable but is not guaranteed. Never use any cable that is longer than 3
m on a USB 3.0 system.

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 2: Introduction
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 3
Chapter 2 Introduction
General Information
Our Low-Profile Scientific Camera family consists of monochrome and color models with
USB 3.0 interfaces. All models are passively cooled and are compatible with many Thorlabs supporting products,
including C-mount lenses and our 30 mm cage system. They are designed specifically to work “out of the box” in
conjunction with our ThorCam™software tool and can also be operated with a variety of other imaging tools.
The model format for the low-profile series is LPxxy(M/C)U where:
xxy is the number of pixels, where “xx” is the multiplier and “y” is the exponent of 10, M/C denotes monochrome
or color, and Uindicates a USB 3.0 interface. Using the LP126MU as an example, the 126 indicates the camera has
12 x 106pixels (12 megapixels), is monochrome, and has a USB 3.0 interface.
The cameras are bundled with the full complement of Thorlabs imaging software. For end-users, the ThorCam
software application provides full control of the camera through an intuitive user interface, and it allows the user
to acquire, pan, zoom, analyze, and save images and metadata.
For developers, Thorlabs also offers a Software Developer’s Kit (SDK), which includes a comprehensive Application
Programming Interface (API) to streamline the integration of any Thorlabs camera into your system. After software
installation, the SDK can be found in a sub-folder under C:\Program Files\Thorlabs. This is the same directory for
32- and 64-bit distributions.
This manual is a functional overview of the camera, and it is meant to be a companion to the Camera Quick Start
Guide, ThorCam User Guide, and the Thorlabs Application Programming Interface Guide. All support
documentation is available at www.thorlabs.com as well as in the C:\Program Files\Thorlabs folder following the
installation of ThorCam.
Receiving and Unpacking
Your camera was thoroughly tested and carefully packed at the factory. Once the camera shipment is accepted
for delivery, the carrier assumes full responsibility for its safe arrival. Should you receive your shipment with any
damage—concealed or apparent—please contact the carrier at once. The carrier will instruct you on how to
initiate a damage claim. If a visual inspection reveals damage upon receipt, it must be noted on the freight bill or
express receipt and the notation signed by the carrier’s agent. Failure to do so can result in the carrier refusing to
honor the claim.
To return your camera to Thorlabs for service, you must first contact your local Thorlabs office or distributor and
request a Return Material Authorization (RMA). Returns will not be accepted without an RMA. See Chapter 10
“Warranty and RMA Information” for details.

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Supplied Equipment
The following is a list of equipment that is supplied with your camera:
Supplied Equipment
Interface Accessories
3 m Long USB 3.0 Cablea (CABU32)
Accessories
DC-CS1 C-Mount Adapter
Lens Cap
3 x CA3339 MMCX-to-BNC Signal Cable
Included Software
Thorlabs Camera Software and SDK
Available for Download from
www.thorlabs.com/software
a. All cameras are supplied with one USB 3.0 cable. These cables are constructed to provide reliable data throughput at a length of
3 m. Do not replace this cable with a 3 m cable from a different vendor. The use of a shorter cable (1 m or 2 m) may be acceptable
but is not guaranteed. Never use any cable that is longer than 3 m on a USB 3.0 system.

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 3: Setup and Installation
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 5
Chapter 3 Setup and Installation
Pre-Installation –USB 3.0
Your camera will only operate when connected to a USB 3.0 “SS” (Super Speed) port on your PC. USB 2.0 ports are
not supported at this time. A USB 3.0 compatible port is typically blue, but not always. Look for this symbol above
the port to be sure:
If your computer does not have a USB 3.0 port, it is likely an indication that it is an older machine, and you
should consult our recommended configuration. If you must use that machine, Thorlabs recommends our PCIe
USB 3.0 card (Item # USB3-PCIE).
Recommended Installation Sequence
1. Run the software installer and follow the steps outlined in the next section.
2. Connect the camera to a USB 3.0 port. Power will be applied once it is connected to the port.
3. Your PC should discover the new USB device and install the necessary drivers. This may take a minute or
so for the first instance.
4. Run the ThorCam application software.
Installing the Software
The Thorlabs camera software runs on Windows 7, 10, and 11 operating systems ONLY.
3.2.1 Run the Installation File
3.2.2 You may download the latest version of software from our webpage ThorCam™Software for Scientific and
Compact USB Cameras.Choose the appropriate installation format, 32-bit or 64-bit and download the file to your
host computer. Double-click the file to run the installation.
Software Designer Kits (SDKs) for Windows and Linux are also available at the same download page.
3.2.3 Driver Selection
Your camera requires a driver to be installed on your computer. After the welcome screen, acceptance of the
license agreement, and entering your user information, you will be presented with a choice of drivers. Select the
driver that matchesthe interface on your camera, in this case USB3.0. Thorlabs offers various cameras with Gigabit
Ethernet or Camera Link interfaces. If you have more than one camera, and they have different interfaces, select
all that apply. If you are unsure, select them all.

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Select a driver for installation by clicking on the dropdown arrow and selecting either of the two choices; “Will
be installed on local hard drive,” or “Entire feature will be installed on local hard drive.” Both choices do the
same thing.
ALL LP126xU low-profile series cameras must have the USB driver selected.
Once a driver is selected, the red X will be replaced with a hard drive icon as shown in the USB selection below.
Note: Thorlabs no longer sells Camera Link models, but the software still supports them. If you are upgrading
your software and have Camera Link cameras, please select the driver during the previous step.
Click Next to proceed with the driver installation. Depending on your PC’s configuration and the drivers you
selected, you might encounter the additional Windows security dialogs below. Be sure to click “install” to
complete the operation, otherwise the installer will “roll back” and exit.

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 3: Setup and Installation
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 7
USB Driver Installation. Click “Install”. This is required for low-profile series cameras.
Gigabit Ethernet Driver Installation (if selected –not required for Low-profile Scientific Cameras). Click
“Install”.
Once setup is complete, you may now proceed to the next section that will describe how to connect and power
on your camera. When the camera is connected and powered up, you can navigate to the ThorCam Imaging
Software as shown below:
“Start” →“All Programs” → “Thorlabs” → “ThorCam”

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Or simply double-click on the ThorCam shortcut icon that was placed on your desktop during installation of the
software:
3.2.4 Installing 3rd Party Software Application Support
After installation of Thorlabs components is completed, you have access to interfaces for select 3rd-party image
analysis packages you may already have installed on your computer, such as MATLAB®.
3rd-party application software interfaces are located in Zip files in the following directory:
C:\Program Files\Thorlabs\Scientific Imaging\Scientific Camera Support
Important: Do not develop 3rd-party solution in this directory, as they will be deleted if you update your
ThorCam software.
To use the MATLAB and LabVIEW interfaces, extract from the Zip file and place in the appropriate directory on
your system.
Special not for users of Micro-Manage (µManager) software: support for Thorlabs scientific cameras (excluding
the CS505MUP1 polarization camera) is included when you run versions 2.0 and later. If you wish to download or
update your Micro-Manager software, please visit:
https//micro-manager.org/wiki/Micro-Manager_Open_Source_Microscopy_Software
Before using your camera within Micro-Manager, first make sure that your camera is properly installed and
powered-on. You may run a session of ThorCam to confirm that the camera, software and drivers are properly
installed. Then, shut down your ThorCam session and start a Micro-Manager session.
Connecting the Camera
To connect the camera, follow the steps below:
5. Connect the provided USB 3.0 cable
a
into the mating connector on the back of the camera. The camera
end of the provided cable will have one thumb screw. Make sure the connector is fully inserted, and then
tighten the thumbscrews into the camera housing. You might need a flat blade screwdriver to fully seat
the thumbscrew.
6. Connect the other end of the USB 3.0 cable into a USB 3.0 port (USB SS) on the host computer.
3.3.1 Multiple Camera Operation
If multiple camera operation is required on the same computer, it is recommended that each camera uses a
dedicated USB 3.0 port. Do not use a USB 3.0 hub.
a
All cameras are supplied with one USB 3.0 cable. These cables are constructed to provide reliable throughput at a length of
3 m. Do not replace this cable with a 3 m cable from a different vendor. The use of a shorter cable (1 m or 2 m) may be
acceptable but is not guaranteed. Never use any cable that is longer than 3 m on a USB 3.0 system.

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Optical and Mechanical Mounting Considerations
3.4.1 Using a C-Mount Lens
For the best results, the use of a C-mount lens that matches the optical format of the sensor’s imaging area is
recommended (refer to the sensor specifications starting at Chapter 5). For more information on Thorlabs C-
Mount lenses, please visit https://www.thorlabs.com.
C-mount lenses are specified with a flange focal distance of 17.5 mm. However, there can be considerable
variation in the flange focal distance among commercially available lenses.
To accommodate the variation in commercially available lenses, the camera has a fixed flange focal range that
allows focusing through the ideal distance when using the provided DC-CS1 C-Mount Adapter. Note: This flange
focal distance includes the installed AR coated window or IR filter thickness.
3.4.2 Mounting the Camera
On most commercial microscopes, the use of a suitable adapter is recommended in order to match the optical
format of the imaging area. Please note that some commercial 1X adapters may underfill the imaging area, leading
to vignetting of the image.
Five 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0 mm) tapped holes are provided, two each on top and bottom and one on the side of the
housing. These may be used with tripods or other optical mounting devices. These 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0 mm) tapped
holes are compatible with Thorlabs Ø1/2” posts.
Figure 1 Mounting Features of the LP126xU(/M) Low-Profile Scientific Camera
(A LP126MU camera is shown in the image above.)
1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0 mm)
Tapped Hole (5 Places)
4-40 Tapped
Holes (4 Places)
C-Mount
Adapter

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3.4.3 Using the Camera with a Cage System
The cameras have four 4-40 tapped holes for compatibility with Thorlabs’ 30 mm Cage systems.
For mor information on Thorlabs’ 30 mm Cage system components, please visit www.thorlabs.com.
3.4.4 SM1 Compatible Threads
The included DC-CS1 C-mount adapter (1.000”-32) can be completely removed (See Figure 3), exposing internal
SM1 (1.035”-40) threading that is directly compatible with Thorlabs Ø1” Lens Tubes.
Optical Front End
The image below shows the components on the front end of the camera.
Figure 2 Exploded View of Optical and Mechanical Components
(An LP126MU camera is shown here.)
3.5.1 Description of Components
•C-Mount Adapter: Allows the camera to be optically coupled with standard C-mount optics, including
lenses and microscope adapters.
•Lens Cap (Not Shown): A protective cover that should always be installed during movement or shipment,
and when the camera is not in use.
•Protective Window: Unless otherwise requested, a protective glass window is installed and held in place
by a retaining ring.
oUsers may, at their discretion, remove the protective glass window, or replace it with a
custom optical filter. When using the C-mount adapter, the maximum filter thickness is 0.039”
(1.0 mm) with a Ø25 mm or Ø1” (Ø25.4 mm), otherwise the maximum filter thickness is 0.196”
(5.0 mm) with Ø1” (Ø25.4 mm).
oCMOS imagers have responsivity that extends beyond the visible range, into the Near-Infrared
(NIR) spectral range. When installed, an NIR blocking filter cuts off light at higher wavelengths.
See Section 7.3 to see the transmission vs wavelength plot of the filter.

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 3: Setup and Installation
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 11
oAll monochrome Low-profile Scientific cameras are configured with an AR-coated protective
window. For imaging that is limited to the visible region, users may install an NIR blocking
filter in its place.
oAll Low-profile Series color models are configured with an NIR blocking filter as a protective
window. The NIR blocking filter is installed in order to achieve realistic colors in white light.
oSee Chapter 7 for more information on both types of windows. See Section 3.6.1 for
instructions related to removing and replacing the glass window.
Optical Front-End Procedures
3.6.1 Window Removal and Replacement Procedure
Thorlabs Low-profile Scientific cameras are provided with a protective glass window installed (See Section 3.5.1).
Note: If no glass is installed, dust and debris may collect on the sensor faceplate. Care must be taken when cleaning
a sensor faceplate to avoid damage to the sensor. Please use every precaution to avoid contact with the sensor
faceplate. Keep the camera securely mounted to the optical system and capped when not in use.
Removal of the Window from the Camera
1. Use your fingers to turn the C-mount adapter counter-clockwise until it is fully removed from the camera
housing.
2. Using an SPW606 or equivalent tool, carefully remove the SM1 retaining ring and window.
3.6.2 Re-Assembly of the Window, C-Mount Adapter, and Flange Focus Adjustment
Replacement of the window and C-Mount Adapter is done in the reverse order as above.
Care must be taken when handling the filter. Do NOT overtighten the retaining ring.
Auxiliary I/O Connectors
The auxiliary I/O connectors on the camera allow the user to access optional camera control and internal status
signals.
Figure 3 Illustration of the Auxiliary Connectors on the Side of the Camera

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3.7.1 I/O Port Descriptions
•STROBE OUT (Output): STROBE OUT is an LVTTL output (0 to 3.3 V) that is high during the actual sensor
exposure time. STROBE OUT is typically used to synchronize an external flash lamp or other device with
the camera.
•TRIGGER IN (Input): TRIGGER IN is an LVTTL input (0 to 3.3 V) used to trigger exposures on the camera.
Transitions can occur from High to Low states or Low to High, as selected using the ThorCam interface.
Default is Low to High. Minimum trigger pulse-width is 100 µs. Maximum trigger voltage may not exceed
+5 V or go below -0.7 V.
•FVAL UT (Output): FVAL OUT refers to the “Frame Valid Output” and is an LVTTL output that is High during
active readout lines. FVAL_OUT remains High throughout the active readout and returns Low between
frames.
3.7.2 Auxiliary Cable
Three Thorlabs CA3339 BNC-to-MMCX 1 m long cables are supplied with each camera.

Low-Profile Scientific Digital Cameras Chapter 4: Operation
Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 13
Chapter 4 Operation
The Low-profile Scientific Camera series can be operated using the ThorCam Imaging Software. For more details
on using ThorCam, please consult the ThorCam User Manual.
Starting the Camera
With the camera software installed and the camera connected as instructed (Refer to Section 3.3), the Status LED
should light up solid Yellow, turning blue several seconds after power is applied. The table below details the
conditions represented by the status indicator.
LED
If LED is Flashing
If LED is On
If LED is Off
Status
USB port cannot
provide sufficient
power to the camera
Blue: Connected to a USB
3.0 Port
Green: Connected to a
USB 2.0 Port
Yellow: Camera has
internal problem or
computer USB port has
malfunctioned
There is no USB
connection providing
power to the camera.
If you are using the ThorCam Image Acquisition Software please refer to the ThorCam User Guide, which can be
accessed in the Documentation selection under the Start menu / All Programs listing for Thorlabs’ products.

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Camera Timing Diagrams
Figure 4 Timing Diagram - Standard, Frames per Trigger = 0 or > 1
Figure 5 Timing Diagram - Standard, Frames per Trigger = 1

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Rev. A, September 26, 2023 Page 15
Figure 6 Timing Diagram - Bulb Mode
4.2.1 Camera-Specific Timing Considerations
Due to the general operation of our Kiralux CMOS sensor cameras, as well as typical system propagation delays,
the timing relationships shown above are subject to the following considerations:
1. The delay from the external trigger to the start of the exposure and strobe signals is typically 75 ns for all
triggered modes (standard and PDX / Bulb) for LP126 Low-profile series cameras.
2. For PDX / Bulb mode triggered exposures, in addition to the start delay discussed above, there is also a
fixed exposure time error
b
AFTER the falling edge of the external trigger. This is inherent in the sensor
operation.
It is important to note that the Strobe Out signal includes the additional fixed exposure time error and therefore
is a better representation of the actual exposure time. Our suggestion is to use the Strobe Out signal to measure
your exposure time and adjust your PDX mode trigger pulse accordingly.
Hot-Pixel Correction
Hot-Pixel Correction is a firmware function that identifies and corrects pixels that are much brighter than their
surrounding pixels. Typically visible as very bright pixels regardless of the scene being imaged, these are
unavoidable by-products of the CMOS and sCMOS sensor manufacturing process.
This feature can be activated by checking the Hot-Pixel Correction check box in the ThorCam acquisition software
Settings Dialog. The Threshold can then be adjusted using the adjacent slider or the numeric input box. The Hot-
Pixel Correction box can only be checked and unchecked when the camera is stopped. Once it is checked however,
the Threshold adjustment can be made on a live image.
b
The fixed exposure time error for the LP126xx Low-Profile camera models is 14.26 µs.

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A hot pixel is identified by comparing with the mean value of the surrounding 8 pixels out of a 3 x 3 neighborhood.
If the difference between the pixel value and the mean is larger than a specified threshold value, then this pixel is
considered a hot pixel and will be replaced with the median value of those pixels in the neighborhood. As the
slider is moved towards Aggressive, the threshold is reduced in a linear fashion. The minimum threshold value,
corresponding to the upper limit, has been selected to provide users with the ability to correct hot pixels having
a deviation of only a few hundred counts. At this most aggressive value, it is quite likely that image content near
the maximum pixel values (full scale) will be altered by the Hot-Pixel Correction algorithm. This correction is done
in hardware and any images save by the host application will only have corrected data.
Frame-Rate Control
All models in the Kiralux family of Compact Scientific cameras employ a unique feature in the ThorCam software
environment and SDK that allows a user to adjust the frame rate in frames per second (FPS) to reduce or eliminate
the number of dropped frames that may occur due to limitation in the host computer.
The Frame-Rate Control is accessed in the Camera Settings window of ThorCam. When the Frame-Rate Control
box is unchecked, the camera will operate at its maximum FPS for the given setting of Exposure, ROI, and Binning.
When the box is checked, the adjustment slider, numeric input field, and increment / decrement arrows are
enabled.
Adjust the FPS until the Dropped Frames percentage reduces to 0%.
Please refer to the ThorCam User Guide for more details, which can be accessed in the Documentation selection
under the Start menu / All Programs listing for Thorlabs’ products.
Note: If the Frame-Rate Control feature is not visible when operating your Kiralux Low-profile camera, please visit
https://www.thorlabs.com/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=ThorCam
for the latest ThorCam software and camera firmware updates.