Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

See3CAM_50CUGM

1. Can I trigger the camera from software also?

Yes, Trigger can be induced by Software also. When the camera is configured in this mode, it does not stream any frames, until it receives the command over HID interface. Additionally, the user has control over how many frames the camera should capture. This functionality will be supported by our SDK.

2. What is the max frame rate possible after binning?

In See3CAM_50CUGM, as the iMX264 sensor does not support binning, binning is done outside the sensor before streaming over USB. The camera is capable of 2x2 binning. The user can select the Region of interest and then Binning. Frame rate increases only because of reduced ROI and not because of binning itself. The maximum frame rate will depend on the selected ROI.

3. How does the multi-frame set output mode work?

In this mode, camera can be configured to output upto 4 frames, where each frame is captured at different exposure and gain settings. The exposure of every next frame must be higher than the previous frame. Meaning, for a 4-set sequence, exposure of the 2nd frame must be higher than the1st frame, the exposure setting of the 3rd frame higher than the 2nd and so on. There are no restrictions on how the gain can be set for each of the 4 frames. This mode will be supported as a HID command from Windows.

4. What processing occurs in the Camera function for the color variant?

The colour variant supports either RAW Bayer output or processed output. The on-board processing of the Bayer output includes demosaicing, white balance correction, both manual and auto, auto exposure, auto gain, tonal mapping or gamma correction. Each of these functions can also be customized as per specific requirements. These functionalities will be included in future releases over the next couple of months.

5. Is USB the only available interface?

e-con Systems will support both USB3 and MIPI interfaces for direct connection to embedded platforms like NVIDIA, NXP, Qualcomm and others. We will provide the Linux V4L2 drivers for the MIPI cameras. The internal ISP available on many of these platforms can be utilized for the color variant.

We can also support GMSL interface. GMSL uses a low-voltage LVDS signaling technique that enables long-distance transmission at high bandwidths and signal integrity. With GMSL cabling, we can extend up to 20 metres.

6. Can I use a M12 lens instead of a C-mount?

The default product configuration is C-mount. We intend to support a M12 variant as well. Due to the larger size of the 2/3" CMOS sensor, M12 lens options are a bit limited. Please let us know your requirements and we can help select the lens for you.

7. Where are the cameras manufactured and do you test all your cameras before shipping?

The cameras are designed and manufactured in India. We are ISO complaint with a rigorous QMS process for manufacturing. All the cameras are assembled and built in clean room facilities. All cameras are tested for hot pixels, defective pixels, and dust particles. Cameras are 100% functionally tested before shipping. For lens mounting, we also support active alignment and gluing as per requirements.

8. What software support is available for the camera?

For evaluation, e-CAMView and QtCAM GUI applications shall be supported for Windows and Linux respectively. We will also provide SDK for OpenCV v4.5 for Python and Windows DirectShow SDK with a sample C++ or C# application, along with the necessary documentation for easy integration.

9. What are the Regulatory tests done for the camera?

The 50CUG camera will be tested for FCC and CE compliance and test reports shall be available on demand. We will provide a Declaration of Conformity for European compliance, listing the Emissions and Immunity standards the camera has been tested for. For Immunity, the typical tests would be ESD, EFT, Radiated electromagnetic Immunity tests.

The camera will be RoHS and Reach compliant.

Different thermal tests like dry heat, cold, thermal cycling, storage test must also be done. In addition, stress tests like HALT and HASS must be done.

10. What are the other solutions for Life Science?

In addition to See3CAM_50CUGM camera, we also have camera solutions from the STARVIS series of Sony, which are the highly sensitive Rolling shutter family of sensors. We have the 2MP and 8MP as our off-the-shelf products, with 12MP under development. Then, we have the low noise 5MP camera based on a onsemi sensor. Please let us know your requirements and we will recommend the best solution for your use case.

11. Can I get access to ISP registers?

No. This option is not available by default but will be provided on case-to-case basis with firmware customization.

12. Can I get access to image sensor registers?

No. The sensor registers are directly controlled by the ISP.

13. I can view the frame corruption while streaming. Can this be avoided?

Yes, this is due to bandwidth limitation in USB host. This may occur when multiple cameras are connected to a single USB host or USB hosts of less powerful embedded boards. Visit the blog for more information on USB practical bandwidths.

14. What sort of support does e-con Systems provide along with the camera?

e-con Systems will provide the basic support on the evaluation for all the customers who have purchased the camera. The hardware/software/firmware customization of the kit will be provided by e-con Systems based on your requirements. e-con Systems will also manufacture your custom cameras and will be supplied.

15. The camera is not suitable for my requirements. Can I return the camera?

No. The kit is non-returnable and non-refundable. However, the kit is under warranty and e-con Systems will replace for any failed kit under warranty terms.

16. The camera is getting very hot. Is it suitable for usage?

Yes, but the camera module needs an external heat sink to dissipate the heat for prolonged usage.