PHOTON - QUESTIONS
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1. Can lenses be interchanged on the Photon? What if I want to use a different lens? Will FLIR calibrate my lens with a Photon?

We advise against customers changing Photon lenses without first understanding the implications and consequences. Each Photon is calibrated with its associated lens at the factory. The calibration data is stored in camera memory, but there is only enough memory to support a single lens. It is physically possible to change lenses, however, if a different lens is installed, the original calibration is no longer valid. If a Photon lens is changed without recalibrating the camera, it will work but the image performance will likely be degraded. In addition, several of the available lenses use different adapters to attach to the Photon camera body, so changing lenses often requires a different lens mount. Use of a third-party lens would require a custom lens mount, as well as knowledge of the back working distance to ensure lens focus from infinity down to the minimum distance capable with the lens focus system. The design of lens mounts is critical, as a poorly designed mount may introduce unacceptable image artifacts. As a result, FLIR cannot be responsible for the performance of third-party optics used with Photon cameras, nor can FLIR provide optical design information or support for other than the existing Photon lens mounts. Finally, changing lenses can only be done by disassembling the Photon, and the warranty will be voided if this done by a customer.

For qualified customers that furnish their own optics for use with Photon cores, FLIR sells a Windows(TM) application program called Alt Lens Cal. This software allows users to perform a supplementary calibration of the camera with a lens. This field-calibration process requires the use of at least one blackbody source (a highly uniform, controllable temperature reference) that has an area greater than the diameter of the front of the lens. It also requires a customer-furnished PC, which should be dedicated to this task. The calibration routine calculates gain terms on a per-pixel basis with the customer-supplied lens attached to the Photon core, and stores the customer-performed calibration in non-volatile camera memory. The original factory calibration coefficients are first uploaded from the camera and stored into a file on the PC, then the new calibration data is downloaded and stored directly into the camera. Multiple calibration files can be stored on the host computer.  The original factory calibration file can be restored if necessary, and the customer can actually build a library of lens calibration files for a Photon camera.

The current version of ALC software is part number 110-0106-72, and supports all versions of Photon cameras delivered beginning in 2008. Contact FLIR for ALC software for Photon cameras delivered prior to 2008.
2. How can I figure out which lens version will work best for my application?

There are three variables that need to be known in order to determine the most appropriate lens for an application:

1. The distance from the camera to the object being imaged. This is usually expressed in feet or meters.
2. The size of the object being imaged. This is usually the largest dimension, also in feet or meters, as long as the same units are used.
3. The number of pixels that the object needs to cover in the image, usually using the larger of the horizontal or vertical dimension.

Using these variables, it is possible to calculate the optimal lens, since the sensor resolutions (640x480, 320x240, 160x120) and pixels sizes (25 microns for the Photon 640; 38 microns for other Photon versions) are known values. We provide a calculator for anyone to use at www.corebyindigo.com/tools/LensCalculator/new/ or by clicking the Lens Help button at the Photon home page.
3. What is included with a Photon delivery?

This depends on what is ordered. The Photon OEM camera core by itself is positioned as a high-volume thermal imaging component that customers integrate into products or systems of their own design. Most OEM customers interface directly to the Photon’s 30-pin electrical connector for power (in), video (out), and other select functions. This connector also facilitates camera control and serial digital data if needed. Therefore the Photon core by itself is typically what is ordered by and delivered to OEM customers.

For evaluation purposes, FLIR offers an optional OEM Accessory Kit that enables customers to operate a Photon until such time as they develop their own interface. This Kit contains a power supply, break-out box (called an I/O Module), an interface cable to the Photon, and a small adapter circuit (called a wearsaver) that attaches between the camera connector and the interface cable. A rear cover is also supplied that encloses the wearsaver adapter and allows for secure attachment to the interface cable. It is the customer’s responsibility to provide a video cable and monitor, and an RS-232 cable if remote control of the Photon is desired.

A picture of a Photon with accessory kit items can be seen here.

A Photon camera control software program (GUI) is available for download here.

The accessory kit part number is 421-0021-00. The kit includes the following items, which may also be ordered individually:

320 and 160 Accessory Kit

421-0021-00 is the part number for an Accessory Kit compatible with both the Photon 320 and Photon 160 cameras. This Accessory Kit includes the following items:

640 Accessory Kit

421-0030-00 is the part number for an Accessory Kit compatible with the Photon 640 camera. This Accessory Kit includes the following items:
333-0005-00
I/O Module
206-0001-20
AC/DC Power Supply
208-0004-02
Line Cord
308-0076-00
Interface Cable
250-0194-00
Wearsaver Connector2
261-1273-00
Wearsaver Cover2
333-0018-00
I/O Module1
206-0001-20
AC/DC Power Supply
208-0004-02
Line Cord
308-0144-02
Interface Cable
421-0028-00
Wearsaver Adapter/EMI Cover Kit2

1 Backward compatible with Photon 320,160,etc.
2 Required for compatibility with the Ethernet Module


4. What is needed to use Photon cameras? What type of connector is used for the power? What is the polarity of this connector?

This depends on the use, and whether or not camera control is desired. At a minimum, a cable is needed from the camera that provides power in to the camera and video out from the camera. We offer such a cable, called a “power/video cable”, as an optional accessory. Power/video cables require that the Photon be configured with a wearsaver connector and wearsaver rear cover, both of which are technically accessory items. An image of a Photon with the wearsaver and its cover can be seen on the Photon 320 page by clicking on the ‘Wearsaver rear cover’ view. The maximum length of the available Photon interface cables is 10 feet. If camera control is desired or required, then an “interface cable” is needed that goes from the camera into a break-out-box (called an I/O module). The I/O module accessory includes a standard DB-9 connector to allow a PC to communicate with a Photon via RS-232 protocol. Customers must arrange to get power to the input power jack of the power/video cable or the I/O module, or otherwise get power directly to the camera. The input power jack for both the I/O module and power/video cable mates to the Switchcraft S760 Miniature Power Plug. Pin definitions for the power interface connector on the power/video cable:
Pin # Signal Name Signal Definition
Pin PWR input power
Sleeve PWR_RTN input power return
FLIR offers an AC/DC power supply as a Photon accessory, as well as a rechargeable battery that will run a camera for 5-6 hours. Typically customers take the video out signal to a monitor or display of some sort.
5. Can I just hook a Photon up to power and a monitor?

Yes. Many customers use Photon cameras in a stand-alone fashion, and typically use all or part of our accessory kit items, and/or optional accessories, for connectivity with the camera. FLIR’s standard and optional Photon accessories include cables that enable connection to the camera in a straightforward, user-friendly fashion. Our high-volume integrators are more likely to build a custom wiring harness that directly interfaces to the Photon OEM connector to achieve a specific functionality. Answers to other FAQs on this page describe the connector pin functions and vendor information needed to build custom cabling.
6. Is it possible to get the Photon camera with an athermal lens?

All of the currently advertised Photon lenses are of a passive athermal design. This means that the lenses mechanically self-adjust to changes in temperature such that the lens remains in focus over wide ambient temperature ranges.


7. How much does the Photon camera weigh?

Photon Weight Information

The camera weight will depend on which type of cover is installed, if any, and whether or not a wearsaver adapter is used. The table below shows the approximate weight of the different camera/lens configurations, as well as the weights for the covers and wearsaver connector. There can be some variation in the actual weight, but the figures shown for the Core + Lens should be accurate to within +/- 2 grams.

Weight Table For Photon 320 and 160
  No Lens 6.3mm1 14.25mm2 19mm 35mm2 50mm2
Core 97g 132g 153g 130g 185.5g 225g
Wearsaver Cover 16g 16g 16g 16g 16g 16g
Wearsaver 7g 7g 7g 7g 7g 7g
Core + Wearsaver + Cover 120g 155g 182g 158g 212g 253g
1 Only available for Photon 160
2 Only available for Photon 320

Weight Table For Photon 640
  No Lens 35mm 50mm
Core 113g 227g 280g
EMI Board cover 22g 22g 22g
EMI Board 24g 24g 24g
Core + EMI Board + Cover 159g 273g 326g


8. Can the Photon rear cover be removed? What other rear cover options does FLIR offer for Photon?

Unless otherwise specified by an OEM agreement, all Photons with lenses are delivered with a rear cover. This cover affords some protection to the electronics, but it can be removed by the customer. There is no credit given for unused rear covers. The standard rear cover has a cut-out to allow access to the SAMTEC 30-pin connector. This cut-out is sized to enable the wearsaver adapter to be installed.

Some customers have expressed concern about the integrity of the cable-to-camera connections in environments where vibration or low g-forces may exist. An optional rear cover is available for Photon that encloses the wearsaver adapter, and jack posts are provided to which the interface cable can be securely attached. The wearsaver cover is furnished as part of the Photon Accessory Kit, or may be ordered separately using part number 261-1273-00. The wearsaver cover is provided as a separate item in addition to the standard cover when delivered.

NOTE: For the Photon 320 camera, the wearsaver adapter is required for compatibility with the Ethernet Module. FLIR also recommends the wearsaver cover in cases where the Ethernet Module is used with a Photon 320.

For the Photon 640 camera, the EMI cover accessory is required for compatibility with the Ethernet Module.

Photon 320
261-1273-00 Wearsaver Cover. Provided as part of the optional Photon Accessory Kit (along with the Wearsaver Connector). Used by most one-off customers and some OEM customers due to its secure connection ability.
261-1082-00 OEM Shipping Cover. Provided as a standard part of the Photon Camera Core configuration.
500-0312-00 EMI Rear Cover. Optional cover that provides some EMI mitigation by means of a separate electronics board, shielding, and grounding.


9. How are FLIR's microbolometer arrays packaged? Are they under vacuum? Why?

The microbolometer sensing elements are thermistors that are suspended, as bridge structures, above a readout integrated circuit (ROIC). The sensing elements need to be able to change temperature individually in response to small amounts of heat energy. In order to allow this response to small changes in radiant energy, the sensing elements must be thermally isolated from the ROIC. To achieve the thermal isolation, we put the sensor in a high-quality vacuum to eliminate the air gap that would otherwise exist between the thermistors and the ROIC. An air gap would enable a conduction path that effectively dampens the sensor responsivity.


10. Is the Photon a rolling shutter camera or a framing camera?

The Photon camera is more like a rolling shutter camera than a framing camera, but does not perform exactly the same way that a typical rolling shutter camera performs. In typical electronic shutter cameras, each pixel in the sensor cyclically goes through the following functions during one frame period: integration of signal onto a collector (analogous to exposure time onto film); sample and readout of signal; reset (to “zero”) of the integration collector. In a framing camera, the integration of signal function occurs for all pixels at the same time, while in a rolling shutter camera, the integration period occurs at different times for pixels in different rows. The actively integrating rows in a rolling shutter camera “roll” down the sensor from top to bottom during the course of the frame period. For a rolling shutter camera, the sampling and readout operation occurs directly following the conclusion of integration, and as a result also rolls from top to bottom of the sensor during a frame period; and likewise with the integrator reset function.

The differences between a Photon camera and a typical rolling shutter camera are the following:

  • The Photon camera’s pixels are continually integrating on the signal (IR light) from the scene, and unlike a rolling shutter camera have no integration time adjustment. The pixels in the Photon camera register integrated signal via their temperature (get hotter when more signal arrives, and colder when less signal arrives). As IR signal arrives, it contributes to the pixel heating, while at the same time there are inherent mechanisms that also allow heat to escape from a pixel. A good analogy for this is a water bucket with a hole in the bottom. Signal is continually filling the bucket with water from the top (heating), while cooling is continually allowing some water out from the bottom.
  • Because the integration of signal is a physical rather than electronic mechanism, unlike a typical rolling shutter camera, in a Photon camera there is no way to reset the integrated signal from an earlier frame. As a result, a bolometer pixel will have memory of the signal that was collected in previous frames. Due to the pixel’s of cooling mechanism, the contribution from past frames decays over time. The heating and cooling occur at a rate that is defined by the pixel’s time constant. Image artifacts such as tails on hot moving objects are a result of this property of the camera.
  • Because there is no integration period on the Photon camera and no reset of the integration, the only function that rolls down the rows in the Photon camera is the sampling of the temperature of each pixel.


11. What is the occasional clicking sound made by the camera? What is FFC?

There is a shutter between the camera lens and the sensor package. This shutter is used to perform a flat-field correction, or FFC. During FFC, the shutter presents a uniform temperature source to each detector element in the array. While imaging the flat-field source, the camera updates the offset correction coefficients, resulting in a more uniform image after the process is complete.

The FFC process takes 0.7 second for all Photon camera versions. While the shutter is in the field of view of the sensor, the image just prior to the shutter moving is frozen and displayed until the FFC process finishes and the shutter moves out of the field of view of the sensor. A faint click is produced when the shutter moves in front of the sensor.

When power is applied to the Photon camera, two mandatory shutter events occur: one within 2 seconds of startup; the other within 6 seconds after the first shutter. Photon cameras are normally configured at the factory to automatically FFC at a specified interval following the initial two shutter events. The FFC interval is based on time and camera temperature. Except for the initial two shutter events, the FFC interval parameters can be modified by the user via the GUI or by serial command to the camera. An FFC can be performed on command by the user, regardless of whether the FFC is in the automatic mode or not.

Photons delivered beginning in 2008 have an option, via the GUI or by serial command to the camera, to allow the user to perform an FFC through the lens, using a uniform source or background. The shutter is disabled when an external FFC is performed. An external FFC can help to reduce the effects of non-uniformities and image artifacts inherent in the lens.


12. I need to use the Photon to image an object at close range. Is it possible to adjust the focus of Photon lenses manually? What is the range of focus? What is the close focus distance?

We describe the range of focus to mean the hyperfocal range, that is, the range between infinity and some point less than infinity through which the lens remains in focus. All Photons with lenses are factory-calibrated with the lens locked at infinity focus.

All of the currently available Photon 320 lenses (14.25mm, 19mm, 35mm, 50mm) use a screw-thread mount. The lens focus is locked by a small setscrew. All of the currently available Photon 640 lenses (35mm, 50mm) also use a screw-thread mount, however the Photon 640 lens adapters use a collar with a socket-head cap screw instead of a setscrew.

To adjust the lens focus to something other than infinity focus, or to achieve the shortest possible focus, requires that the setscrew or socket-head cap screw be loosened. It may not be possible to lock the focus at a close focus point since in some cases the lens in almost out of its holder. FLIR does not offer spacers for macro focus. Extreme care should be used to avoid cross-threading the lens in the lens adapter.

The table below shows the approximate minimum focus distance for each Photon 320 lens type. Although Photon lenses are capable of focusing to shorter object distances, it is important to note that they are not designed, calibrated, or specified for this purpose. All Photon camera/lens calibrations are performed at infinity focus. Image space f/numbers can change under extreme finite conjugates. Very close focus applications using a Photon calibrated at infinity focus may result in possible image anomalies, non-uniformities, and/or degraded performance. Customers should be aware of these limitations and evaluate the images for issues.

Lens Focal Length 14.25mm Lens 19mm Lens 35mm Lens 50mm Lens
Close Focus Distance ~5 inches ~12 inches ~27 inches ~72 inches


13. What is the I/O module and how does it differ from going directly into a monitor or PC?

I/O = Input/Output. The I/O module is essentially a break-out box, in the form of a molded plastic accessory. There are connectors on four sides of the accessory:
1) Interface connector to the camera;
2) Power-in & Video-out connectors;
3) RS-232 connector;
4) Serial LVDS digital data connector.

The minimum interface to a Photon is power going into the camera, and NTSC (or PAL) video coming out of the camera. There is an optional accessory called a ‘Power/Video’ cable that is sort of a hybrid of the Interface Cable and the I/O Module, except the only connectors at the I/O end are for power (in) and video (out). The power input jack is intended for a power supply such as the one offered by FLIR as part of the Photon Accessory Kit (Universal Power Supply with 6-foot cord). The input power jack mates to the Switchcraft S760 Miniature Power Plug. Pin definitions for the power interface connector on the power/video cable:
Pin # Signal Name Signal Definition
Pin PWR input power
Sleeve PWR_RTN input power return

Both the I/O Module and Power/Video cable are designed for use with Photon 320 cameras that have the wearsaver connector and wearsaver cover accessories installed, or Photon 640 cameras with the EMI cover accessory.
14. Is the Photon tripod adapter necessary?

The Photon 320 has a total of 7 attach points on the top and sides of the camera, designed for M3 screws. Because there are no attach points on the bottom, the tripod adapter was designed as an optional accessory to provide a ¼”x20 mounting interface to the bottom of the camera.

The Photon 640 has 6 attach points: 2 each on the sides of the camera, and 2 on the bottom. All 6 screw holes are drilled for M3 helical inserts. The Photon 640 tripod adapter is available as an optional accessory to provide a ¼”x20 mounting interface to the bottom of the camera.
15. Does the PathFindIR come with the same accessories as Photon?

PathFindIR accessories are separate and distinct from those of Photon.

Click here to view PathFindIR accessories, and here to see Photon accessories.
16. Is an export license required for Photon?

Yes, however, if the video frame rate is factory set to be less than 10 frames per second, the Photon 640, 320, 160, 120, and 80 versions do not require an export license. An example of “slow” Photon imagery can be seen here.

Otherwise, export of Photon 320, 160, 120, and 80 “full-rate” cameras is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Commerce. In most cases, FLIR / Indigo will apply for the export licenses. In order to obtain an export license, the ultimate consignee or end user of the infrared product must furnish an end-use statement on company letterhead to FLIR / Indigo. The end user must also complete a BIS-711, Statement by Ultimate Consignee and Purchaser. This form is available on the internet at http://www.bis.doc.gov/Forms/FormsList.html. Quoted delivery times are based upon receipt of the validated export license from the Dept. of Commerce, which takes 8-10 weeks on average, depending on the end-use application, completeness of the end-use statement, and verification of the end-user.

The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) details the regulations governing the export of defense related materials and technologies. The U.S. Munitions List (USML) categorizes goods and technologies governed by the ITAR.

In June 2008 the U.S. government made a determination that the Photon 640 will be USML classified under the ITAR. As a result, the Photon 640 and related technical data and information are controlled for export purposes to the ITAR. Photon 640 data provided at this web site has been approved for public release, and is not export-controlled. It is a violation of the ITAR to export or re-export the Photon 640 or related technical data (other than data approved for public release) without first receiving authorization to do so from the U.S. Department of State. This restriction does not apply to the “slow video” versions of Photon 640 that operate at frame rates of less than 9Hz.

Due to the Photon 640’s export status, any purchase, receipt, and/or use of any Photon 640 camera or technical data (other than data approved for public release) is contingent upon an agreement to abide by all export laws and regulations of the United States, including, without limitation, the ITAR. Further, it must be acknowledged that export or re-export of the Photon 640 or related technical data (other than data approved for public release) is not allowed without the requisite authorization from the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State.

In addition, § 122.1 of the ITAR states that “any person in the U.S. who engages in the business of either manufacturing or exporting defense articles or furnishing defense services is required to be registered with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC).” It is the responsibility of any organization that buys, receives, and/or uses a Photon 640 to register with DDTC in such cases.

Violations of the ITAR are extremely serious and can result in fines, debarment, and criminal sanctions. Please direct any questions or concerns regarding the export status of the Photon 640 to Krista Larsen, FLIR’s Director, Export Compliance Traffic, at (503) 498-3316.

Again, ITAR compliance for the Photon 640 applies to the full-rate (30Hz & 25Hz) versions of the camera, and does NOT apply to the “slow video” versions that operate at frame rates of less than 9Hz.


17. What is the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) for Photon? What is the USML code for the Photon 640?

For ‘slow video’ Photons (~9Hz), the ECCN is 6A993. This applies to slow video versions of the Photon 640, 320, 160, 120, and 80.

For Photon 320 and lower resolution full-rate video cameras, the ECCN is 6A003b.4.

For Photon 640 full-rate video cameras, the USML category/subcategory is XIIc.


18. What is the function of the 30-pin connector and the optional 15-pin connector on the Photon? What is the function of the 30-pin connector and the optional 26-pin connector on the Photon 640?

The 30-pin SAMTEC connector is the primary electrical interface to all Photon camera versions. This connector passes input power, output video, RS-232 commands, and serial digital data. The optional 15-pin D-Sub connector used on the Photon 320, 160, 120, and 80 cameras passes these same signals and voltages (power, video, RS-232, serial LVDS). The 30-pin connector provisions for external sync as well as a few spare leads that are reserved for factory and OEM customer use.

A description of the pin assignments for the 30-pin SAMTEC connector as well as the optional 15-pin D-Sub connector used on the Photon 320, 160, 120, and 80 cameras can be found at this link.

The 15-pin D-Sub connector (Photon 320) and the 26-pin D-Sub connector (Photon 640) configuration is required for compatibility with the respective Ethernet Module accessory.


19. The Photon 30-pin interface control drawing shows the pin numbers reversed for the interface connector J1 (SAMTEC TFML-115-02-S-D-P), in comparison with SAMTEC’s drawing for TFML-115-02-S-D-P. Which reference is correct?

At the time we designed around this interface connector, SAMTEC was just introducing this part and a pin numbering scheme was not available. Unfortunately, when SAMTEC released their pin numbering scheme, it differed from the one we had established. We elected to follow our own scheme, already released in our documentation. Our ICD correctly calls out pin function and pin location/ID.

Please do not use SAMTEC's drawing as a reference for the 30-pin connector pinout; this will result in a failure of the Photon's power conditioning board.

This answer applies to all Photon versions: 640; 320; 160; 120; and 80.


20. Is there a recommended connector or cable harness that can be used to interface to the SAMTEC 30-pin connector?


SAMTEC now makes an SFSD Series mating connector that enables discrete wires to be brought out from the Photon 30-pin interface connector. An example part number of a mating connector fully populated with wires is SFSD-15-28-S-10.00-S. However, a cable harness can be made using only the wires needed. Power and video leads would likely be the minimum, then RS-232, then digital video.

The 10.00 designates 10" leads. The leads could be made any (practical) length desired since these cables are custom-built.

A friction lock option is available. See the –SL and –DL options on the product print, http://www.samtec.com/ftppub/cpdf/SFSD-XX-XX-X-XX.XX-XX-XXX-MKT.pdf



Also refer to:
www.samtec.com/technical_specifications/overview.aspx?series=SFSD

For more information, or to request pricing for a cable harness, contact:
SAMTEC USA
520 Park East Blvd.
New Albany, IN 47150-7251
800-726-8329


21. Can two cameras be set up as master and slave for synchronization purposes?

Photon was designed to accept a 3-Volt signal and send a 3-Volt signal, so one Photon can drive one or more Photons in slave mode. There are serial commands to designate a Photon as the master or slave camera.

Photon provides the capability to synchronize the frame start sequence using an external input. The camera completes the frame sequence using internal timing and then waits for the synchronization pulse before starting the next frame. If the sync pulse rate exceeds the maximum FPA frame rate (nominally 30Hz), sync pulses will be ignored and there will be frames dropped from the stream. (Note: this will result in lost data). While operating in slave mode, the analog video output signal is dependent upon the input frame sync rate for compliance with video standards.

Slave mode in slow video mode cameras continues to require an external sync pulse at the nominal 30Hz/ 25Hz frame rate. Digital output frame rate and analog video update rate are both at one fourth the input external frame sync rate independent of video modes (NTSC/PAL).


22. What is the voltage on the serial port? Do I need to access the serial port for normal operation? I am trying to connect to the camera via HyperTerminal and I can’t seem to get any control or response. I’ve tried a Null modem cable and a straight-thru cable and can’t seem to connect.

The serial port is only required to operate the camera in a non-autonomous mode. The camera is capable of being controlled remotely through an asynchronous serial interface consisting of the signals named RX, TX, and GND using 3.3 volt signal levels.

Note: The camera is compatible with most all RS-232 drivers/receivers but does not implement signaling levels (voltages) compliant with the RS-232 industry standard. However, it has been found fully functional in almost all implementations to date. There is no need for a NULL modem or to change the polarity when connecting Photon to a PC.

The Photon camera can understand camera commands set by the Photon Graphical User Interface (GUI) over an RS-232 link. The GUI can be downloaded here.

If you experience problems trying to communicate with a Photon over a serial port, we recommend trying this sequence of steps:
1. Close the GUI if it is open.
2. Remove power from the camera.
3. Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure, including the RS-232 connection from the PC to the I/O module.
4. Turn on or reapply power to the camera.
5. Start (or restart) the Photon camera control GUI.
6. The GUI should open in a single window and function normally. If a ‘Select Communication Parameters’ window appears, it usually means there is a configuration error, such as no cable from the PC to the I/O module (or unplugged at one end), or the wrong serial (COM) port is selected. You can try another COM port from the drop-down list.
7. If step 6. does not work, and the PC has more than one serial port, try a different port. You will need to select the matching COM port from the drop-down list in the Select Communication Parameters window.

If the above steps do not produce a successful result, then try another PC before contacting our Client Services group for help. The most common diagnosis we have seen is an anomaly with the serial port of the PC being used.


23. What would be needed to integrate Photon on a vehicle and run it?

Since Photon is not environmentally sealed, the first step would be to build some sort of enclosure for it. The enclosure would need to provision for mounting points. There would need to be a way to get power to the enclosure (and camera), and video from the camera out through the enclosure and back into the vehicle where it would be routed to a display. FLIR does not offer an environmental enclosure for Photon at this time. PathFindIR would be a better option since it is already sealed, and in fact designed for integration into a vehicle. The PathFindIR aftermarket kit that includes a display also furnishes some mounting bracketry.
24. For Photons used on vehicles for driver vision enhancement or situational awareness, how would the operator inside view the scene?

The video from the camera would need to be wired to a monitor or display that is mounted inside the vehicle where the operator can see it. PathFindIR offers an LCD display as an aftermarket option, along with a 20’ interface cable. FLIR does not offer specific aftermarket accessories for vehicle-mounted applications in support of Photon.
25. Is Photon available with PAL video?

Yes, Photon may be ordered in either NTSC or PAL video format. We use different part numbers to designate the video format. Both NTSC and PAL formats are fully compliant with their respective video standards. The video format (NTSC or PAL) programmed into the Photon is a factory setting that cannot be changed by the customer.


26. Can the Photon video format be changed from NTSC to PAL (or PAL to NTSC) ?

The video format is hard-coded into each camera at the factory and cannot be changed in the field. Cameras are calibrated differently depending on the video format, therefore customers must specify either PAL or NTSC at the time of purchase.


27. Does operating the Photon at 9 Hz reduce the camera power consumption?

There is no difference in power consumption. The FPA, AGC, and NUC are all still running at full rate. The video output is still running at full rate, however the data is updating at a rate less than 10 Hz.


28. Is there any price difference between the 9 Hz Photon and the 30 Hz (NTSC) or 25 Hz (PAL) versions?

The price of the slow video version of the Photon 320 is discounted approximately 3-5% from the full-rate video version, depending on the quantity of cameras ordered.

The price of the slow video version of the Photon 160 is discounted approximately 2-4% from the full-rate video version, depending on the quantity of cameras ordered.

The price of the slow video version of the Photon 120 is discounted approximately 2-4% from the full-rate video version, depending on the quantity of cameras ordered.

There is no price difference between the 9Hz and full-rate video versions of either the Photon 80 or Photon 640 cameras.


45. Is the Photon SDK necessary?

The Photon SDK is only necessary for customers that want to create a custom control interface to the camera. The Photon GUI is an example of a control interface, it was created with the SDK. Most customers operate Photon in an autonomous mode, that is, power in and video out only. The Photon GUI is used by many other customers for controlling the camera features and functions, as well as to save camera setup preferences. Also refer to FAQ #42.
29. Does FLIR have any specifications as to the drive capability of the analog video out of the Photon camera?

We have empirically demonstrated the ability to drive analog video over 325 feet of coaxial cable with Photon. Longer cable runs may be possible, but not guaranteed.


30. Is the Photon video interlaced or non-interlaced?

Photon generates analog video that complies with NTSC video standards, or PAL video standards if so configured. Each video frame is comprised of two interlaced video fields (odd and even). As in traditional video systems, fields are sampled every 1/60th of a second (1/50th second PAL), one odd and one even. These fields are recombined into a video frame every 1/30th of a second (1/25th second PAL) to conform to NTSC and PAL standards for interlacing and display.

In traditional video systems, each odd and even field is sampled 1/60th of a second apart. For Photon, both odd and even video fields are sampled at the same time. But even though the fields are then interlaced to generate a frame, the data in each Photon video field (odd & even) is identical. Since each odd and even field contains exactly the same data, Photon's video display, while fully compliant to NTSC standards, is consistent with a progressive scan mode with the video sampling benefits of more detail and less flicker. The digital output of Photon is exclusively progressive scan.


31. There is a reference to the aspect ratio of the Photon video as being 4:3, however the image on our monitor is 5:4. Is this a problem?

There are 324x256 active pixels in the Photon 320's focal plane array, and 644x512 active pixels in the Photon 640’s FPA.

For a Photon configured to display NTSC video, the pixel array format is 320x240 or 640x480, with an aspect ratio of 4:3.

For a Photon configured to display PAL video, the pixel array format is 320x255 or 640x512, so the aspect ratio is in fact very close to 5:4.


32. What methods are available to acquire digital data using Photon?

Currently there are three possible ways to acquire digital data:

1) Photon outputs digital data in a serial low-voltage differential signal (LVDS) format. This data is available at the 30-pin connector on the camera core. In addition, serial LVDS is available at the 15-pin wearsaver connector of the Photon 320 camera (26-pin connector for the Photon 640 camera) as well as the digital data port on the I/O module. The wearsaver connector and I/O module are accessory kit items. The Photon User's Guide provides the necessary pinouts and timing diagrams for interfacing directly to the Photon camera core electrical functions, including digital data.

2) FLIR / Indigo’s Ethernet Module for Photon provides camera control functions, and converts serial LVDS into real-time streaming uncompressed video data. The Module interfaces into a standard RJ-45 Ethernet network and runs at standard 100 megabit or full gigabit Ethernet speed. The Module includes the Ethernet interface adapter, camera cabling, and power supply. The Module allows capture of both 8-bit digital data and the full 14-bit digital data. Analog video is also output via separate BNC connector. The Photon control software (GUI) provides Ethernet Module support to allow camera control and video display in a host computer window. The Photon SDK, a separate optional accessory, also provides this functionality. The Photon 320 Ethernet Module part number is 421-0025-00. The Photon 320 Ethernet Module part number is 421-0031-00. Ethernet Modules require the camera to have either the 15-pin wearsaver connector installed on a Photon 320 camera, or the 26-pin connector (part of the EMI rear cover assembly) installed on a Photon 640 camera.

3) FLIR / Indigo’s optional serial-in, parallel-out (SIPO) module (part number 333-0017-00) converts the serial LVDS into a parallel data format that can be accessed via a frame grabber. The SIPO mates directly to the I/O module’s digital data port, and furnishes a 68-pin connector that can be attached to a frame grabber via a digital interface cable. One frame grabber possibility is the National Instruments IMAQ PCI-1422 board using digital interface cable part number 308-0013-00. Another frame grabber option is the Bit Flow RoadRunner Model 14 board using digital interface cable part number 308-0016-00-03. Both of these frame grab boards require third-party software not offered or supported by FLIR / Indigo. Setup files for the NI IMAQ and Bit Flow Road Runner frame grabbers can be downloaded from the Software Updates page, however, we do not formally support their use, nor do we claim or guarantee that these setup files will be suitable for any particular use or application. It is important to note that FLIR does not market the Photon as a scientific or R&D camera. We intentionally limit the information in this third option to avoid having customers perceive Photon as a science camera, since there is a natural tendency for challenging questions to otherwise result.


33. Is Photon’s 14-bit digital output (serial LVDS) true usable 14-bit data from the array?

The output of Photon is true 14-bit resolution. The user can select between 14-bit “filtered” data and 14-bit “raw” data. The filtered digital data is processed to apply non-uniformity compensation (NUC) terms, noise reduction, digital data enhancement (DDE, a sharpening filter), and bad pixel replacement. The raw digital data also applies NUC terms and noise reduction, but does not implement DDE filtering or bad pixel replacement.


34. Is the digital data from Photon signed or unsigned integer?

It is unsigned 16-bit data. The range is 0 to 16383. Higher counts equal higher relative temperature.


35. Can the camera be completely controlled using a PCI-1422 frame grabber card?

No. Only digital data passes through the SIPO.


36. Can the camera accept an external sync from the PCI-1422 to command the camera to digitize imagery at 30 frames per second?

No. Only digital data passes through the SIPO. External sync is only available via the 30-pin SAMTEC connector, which is the primary electrical interface to the camera.


37. Is there another way for the camera to accept an external sync using the PCI-1422?

A custom cable could be developed by the customer that interfaces from the SAMTEC connector directly to the frame grabber, thus obviating the SIPO limitations. This is necessary because there is no SYNC signal through the 15-pin connector. Such a cable would need to be bifurcated to provide a path for input power to the camera.


38. Can the frame grabber be used to command the camera to perform a NUC ‘on demand’?

No. Only digital data passes through the SIPO.


39. Can the frame grabber be used to turn on and off AGC and adjust contrast and brightness? Can we read out the NUC parameters from the camera?

No. Only digital data passes through the SIPO.


40. Can the camera data be streamed to disk over the PCI-1422 card and displayed real time?

This is up to the type of application that’s grabbing the frames. An application could be written in LabVIEW that would do this.


41. I have lost / can’t find / don’t remember receiving the Photon camera control software / User’s Guide. How can I get a copy?

Photon cameras are delivered with instructions that provide a link to the Photon camera control software (GUI). The software can be downloaded at www.corebyindigo.com/service/softwareupdates.cfm. The User’s Guide is also available as a download, at www.corebyindigo.com/service/currentmanuals.cfm.
42. What is needed in order to create my own application to control and/or acquire digital data using Photon?

The SDK enables camera control using one of several programming languages, including VB6, VB.net, C#, and C++ (MFC). Code examples are included to help illustrate how some of the camera control functions can be used.

The Photon OEM GUI (refer to http://www.corebyindigo.com/service/softwareupdates.cfm) is an example of an application created using the Photon SDK.


43. As for Photon software, what does FLIR offer and what are the capabilities?

Many customers use the Photon Graphical User Interface (GUI). The GUI is a PC program that enables remote command and control of the most commonly used Photon functions and features through an RS-232 serial interface to the camera. The GUI is available as a free download on the Software Updates page. A Photon is not required in order to run the GUI and view its capabilities.
44. Can any of it run on a Mac?

Our software is designed to run on a PC. It might be possible to run on a Mac in a PC-emulation mode, but we have not attempted this. A USB to RS-232 converter would be required, since Macs do not have RS-232 ports.