Page 1 PLEORA TECHNOLOGIES INC. iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface User Guide Installing, Uninstalling, and Starting the Software Applications...
Page 2 These products are not intended for use in life support appliances, devices, or systems where malfunction of these products can reasonably be expected to result in personal injury. Pleora Technologies Inc. (Pleora) customers using or selling these products for use in such applications do so at their own risk and agree to indemnify Pleora for any damages resulting from such improper use or sale.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
About the iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface ........
Page 4 Appendix: Frame Buffer High Watermark ..........99 iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface User Guide...
Page 5 Feature Descriptions ..............100 Memory Water Level .
Page 7: About This Guide
Chapter 1 About this Guide The iPORT™ NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface provides a flexible and economical solution for camera companies to integrate Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) connectivity into almost any industrial camera. The NTx-Mini supplies these features in an ultra-small footprint with low power consumption and flexible mounting options.
Page 8: What This Guide Provides
Pleora software, connecting the device, and performing general configuration tasks to properly display video. The last chapter of this guide provides Technical Support contact information for Pleora Technologies. Documented Product Versions This guide covers the following product versions.
Page 9: Related Documents
• Altera Application Note - AN447, available from Altera Further Reading Although not required to successfully use the iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface User Guide, you can find details about industry-related standards and naming conventions in the following documents: •...
Page 11: About The Iport Ntx-Mini Embedded Video Interface
Chapter 2 About the iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface This chapter describes the NTx-Mini, including the product variants and key features. The following topics are covered in this chapter: • “Model Variants” on page 6 “Feature Set” on page 8 •...
Page 12: Model Variants
The following NTx-Mini variants are available and include the following parts. Table 2: NTx-Mini Models Order code Model Quantity 904-3011 iPORT NTx-Mini Main board, vertical RJ45 jack iPORT NTx-Mini Main board, vertical RJ45 jack 904-3013 iPORT NTx-Mini in-camera set, vertical RJ45 jack iPORT NTx-Mini Main board, vertical RJ45 jack AdaptRBoard...
Page 13 904-3215 iPORT NTx-Mini in-camera set, horizontal RJ45 jack iPORT NTx-Mini Main board, horizontal RJ45 jack AdaptRBoard FlexEBoard 904-3216 iPORT NTx-Mini Development kit, horizontal RJ45 jack iPORT NTx-Mini Main board, horizontal RJ45 jack AdaptRBoard FlexEBoard Prober board Flat flex cables Power supply...
Page 14: Feature Set
Interface ECCN • 5A991.b • 20-pin FPC (Wurth 687120149028) * Case and junction temperature limits vary by IC device. “Thermal Requirements” on page 55. ** See “Power Consumption” on page 50 for details. About the iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface...
Page 15 • Allows host to be interrupted based memory leveraging User Sets on events on any input or internal from GenICam signal ** One UART serial link is available for GenICam integration using the AutoGEV XML generation tool About the iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface...
Page 17: Connector Details And Pinouts
Chapter 3 Connector Details and Pinouts This chapter describes the connectors on the NTx-Mini, including pinouts and signal information. It also provides details about the FlexEBoard, which connects to the PLC 20-pin connector to provide power and external signals. This chapter also provides timing information for the NTx-Mini’s pixel bus and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).
Page 18: Connector Locations
Connector Locations The following figure and table describe the NTx-Mini connectors. The NTx-Mini vertical version is shown. Pin 1 Pin 1 FlexEBoard (front view) Pin 1 Main board Main board FlexEBoard (back view) Pin 1 (front view) (back view) Pin 1 AdaptRBoard Table 4: Connector Summary Location...
Page 19: Mounting The 12-Pin Circular Connector To An Enclosure Backplate
Mounting the 12-pin Circular Connector to an Enclosure Backplate The removable 12-pin circular connector and the FlexEBoard, which provide power and external signals to the NTx-Mini, are suitable for mounting to a client-sourced enclosure. To mount the 12-pin circular connector to an enclosure backplate 12-pin connector FlexEBoard Insert the 12-pin circular connector through the external side of the backplate.
Page 20 Assemble the 12-pin circular connector to the FlexEBoard by lining up the pins with the FlexEBoard. When oriented correctly, the tab on the 12-pin connector aligns with the arrow marker on the FlexEBoard. The following figures show the pin locations, and also show the tab and arrow marker. Solder the pins of the connector to the FlexEBoard for a secure connection.
Page 21: Raw Video 60-Pin Ffc/Fpc Connector (J5)
Raw Video 60-Pin FFC/FPC Connector (J5) The raw video connector connects directly to a camera’s PCB. This connector carries many signals, including: • Pixel data (pixel bus) video signals Power signals • • Serial interface signals, which allow the NTx-Mini to control the camera System level signals, such as camera clock, NTx-Mini clock, and system reset controls •...
Page 22 Table 5: Raw Video 60-Pin FFC/FPC Pinouts (Continued) Signal name Type Notes PIXEL_DATA1 Input Raw pixel data from the camera PIXEL_DATA2 Input Raw pixel data from the camera PIXEL_DATA3 Input Raw pixel data from the camera PIXEL_DATA4 Input Raw pixel data from the camera PIXEL_DATA5 Input Raw pixel data from the camera...
Page 23 Table 5: Raw Video 60-Pin FFC/FPC Pinouts (Continued) Signal name Type Notes Output Camera head control 1. See table note 1. Output Camera head control 2. See table note 1. Output Camera head control 3. See table note 1. Output Camera head control 4.
Page 24: Input And Output Signal Levels
SYSTEM_PWR_ON_RST is the NTx-Mini power-on-reset signal. This signal can be used as an input or output. When power is first applied to the NTx-Mini, the NTx-Mini actively holds SYSTEM_PWR_ON_RST# low. When the voltages stabilize, the NTx-Mini releases the signal and an onboard pull-up makes the signal high. This is useful when you want to suppress camera activity if the camera boots faster than the NTx-Mini.
Page 25: Pixel Bus Timing
Pixel Bus Timing The NTx-Mini pixel bus (available on the NTx-Mini raw video connector) transmits data from the camera to the NTx-Mini in a format that is similar to deserialized Camera Link Standard data, as shown in the following image. Table 8: Sub-Clock Delays on the Camera Interface Parameter Symbol...
Page 26: Pixel Bus Signals
Pixel Bus Signals The output of the camera must match the format of the NTx-Mini. The pixel bus is available on the NTx-Mini raw video connector. You should select a case for your application and then refer to “Timing Values for All Cases” on page 22.
Page 27: Case 2: Fval And Lval Are Edge-Sensitive
Case 2: FVAL and LVAL are Edge-Sensitive In this case, FVAL and LVAL are edge-sensitive. • Start of frame/line is signaled by: A rising (or falling) edge on FVAL, which signals the start of a frame. A rising (or falling) edge on LVAL, which signals the start of a line. •...
Page 28: Case 3: Fval Is Edge-Sensitive And Lval Is Level-Sensitive
Case 3: FVAL is Edge-Sensitive and LVAL is Level-Sensitive In this case, FVAL is edge-sensitive and LVAL is level-sensitive. • Start of frame/line is signaled by: A rising (or falling) edge on FVAL, which signals the start of a frame. The line is valid when LVAL is active (high or low depending on settings). •...
Page 29 Table 9: Timing Values for All Cases (Continued) Case 1 Case 2 Case 3 (level) (edge) (both) From Symbol ( t cp) ( t cp) ( t cp) t LI2DV 16 g 16 g LVAL invalid Data valid (Automatic Internal Retrigger enabled) LVAL invalid a , d , e t DI2LI...
Page 30: High-Bandwidth Serial Port: Bulk0
High-Bandwidth Serial Port: BULK0 The NTx-Mini has a bulk data transfer port that is used for high-bandwidth serial communication. The port supports the standard UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) and USRT (Universal Synchronous Receiver/Transmitter) protocols. Alternatively, you can use the bulk port for I2C (Inter- Integrated Circuit).
Page 31: High-Bandwidth Serial: Bulk0 Usrt
High-Bandwidth Serial: BULK0 USRT The high-bandwidth USRT serial interface resembles the UART interface, but adds a clock signal to enable synchronous communication. Table 11: USRT Signal Nomenclature NTx-Mini signal Generic signal BULK0_RXD BULK0_TXD BULK0_CLK Table 12: Supported Clock Frequencies Clock period, tSCK (ns) Clock frequency a (MHz) 16.667 8.333...
Page 32: High Bandwidth Serial: I2C
Table 13: Clock Periods, Delays, and Timing Parameter Symbol Minimum Maximum 60 ns 960 ns Clock period SCK to TXD delay -5 ns 5 ns RXD setup time 16 ns 44 ns RXD hold time 0 ns 44 ns Clock frequency of 16.667 MHz Clock frequency of 0.130 MHz High Bandwidth Serial: I2C The I2C serial interface is a bi-directional serial bus that supports multi-master communication between...
Page 33: Standard-Bandwidth Serial Port: Uart
Standard-Bandwidth Serial Port: UART The standard-bandwidth serial port sends one byte at a time over Ethernet. The next byte is not sent until the previous byte is acknowledged. UART0 is also referred to as SERTC (transmit data line) and SERTFG (receive data line). Note: UART0 is used for GenICam integration using the AutoGEV XML generation tool.
Page 34 A number of preset baud rates can be used. If you require a baud rate that is not covered by the presets, you can specify your own baud rate. To specify your own baud rate: In the Device Control dialog box, under Port Communication > Bulk/Uartx, choose Programmable in the BulkBaudRate/UartxBaudRate list.
Page 35: Plc 20-Pin Ffc/Fpc Connector (J4)
PLC 20-Pin FFC/FPC Connector (J4) The PLC 20-pin FFC/FPC connector connects to the FlexEBoard (or your own board) with a 20- conductor FFC cable. The PLC 20-pin FFC/FPC connector can carry signals that include: • Inputs from and outputs to external machinery Power •...
Page 36 Table 16: PLC 20-Pin FFC/FPC Connector Signal Names (Continued) 20-pin 12-pin 20-pin Signal name Signal name connector circular connector Main board with without Notes GenICam connector on on Main signal type AdaptRBoard AdaptRBoard designation FlexEBoard FlexEBoard board installed installed (U1) (J1) Power 0.5A maximum per...
Page 37: Input And Output Signal Levels
Table 16: PLC 20-Pin FFC/FPC Connector Signal Names (Continued) 20-pin 12-pin 20-pin Signal name Signal name connector circular connector Main board with without Notes GenICam connector on on Main signal type AdaptRBoard AdaptRBoard designation FlexEBoard FlexEBoard board installed installed (U1) (J1) Output Reserved for future...
Page 38: Adaptrboard
The FlexEBoard makes the following pin mapping signal connections between the 20-pin FPC connectors and the 12-pin circular connector. The FlexEBoard has no active components. When looking into the connector AdaptRBoard The Pleora AdaptRBoard translates the onboard voltage levels of the NTx-Mini to levels that are suitable for communication with external equipment.
Page 39 The NTx-Mini’s control signals are routed to the 40-pin connector. However on the Main board, the wires between the 40-pin connector and the 20-pin connector carry no signal information. These bare wires exist in this location for ESD protection, only. 40-pin header (J2) 20-pin connector (J4) Main board...
Page 40: Adaptrboard Signal Specifications
The FlexEBoard connects to the NTx-Mini’s PLC connector. AdaptRBoard 20-pin connector (U1) on FlexEBoard 40-pin header (J2) Main board FPGA 20-pin connector (J4) AdaptRBoard Signal Specifications The AdaptRBoard has the following signal-level specifications. Input/Output Voltage Table 17: Input/Output Voltage Specification Minimum Typical DVCC in...
Page 41 TTL_INx IO Block IO Block TTL Input Block Rser TTL_IN Vzener S = Synchronization D = Debouncing Table 18: TTL_INx Specifications Specification Value Maximum input frequency 16.5 MHz Serial resistor (Rser) 150 ohms Input capacitance 2.3 pF Input current Minimum: -1 uA Maximum: +1 uA Input voltage maximum low 1.50 V...
Page 42 TTL_OUTx IO Block IO Block TTL Output Block PLC_Q TTL_OUT Rser Vzener Table 19: TTL_OUTx Specifications Specification Value Maximum output frequency 16.5 MHz Serial resistor (Rser) 150 ohms Output current maximum Sink: 16 mA Source: 16 mA Output voltage maximum low 0.58 V Output voltage minimum high 4.20 V...
Page 43: Signal Level Conversions
Signal Level Conversions The following table shows how the pins on the 40-pin connector are level-converted and connected for use with the AdaptRBoard. If you are designing an adapter board for use with your NTx-Mini, please note that you can design your own mapping to suit your requirements.
Page 44 Table 20: Signal Level Translation for Pleora AdaptRBoard (Continued) Main board Main board Main board Example: Signal name and Type 40-pin header 60-pin connector 20-pin connector GenICam Pleora function (J2) (J5) (J4) designation AdaptRBoard FPGA_TTLOUT_EN# Output — — — Reserved Output —...
Page 45 Table 20: Signal Level Translation for Pleora AdaptRBoard (Continued) Main board Main board Main board Example: Signal name and Type 40-pin header 60-pin connector 20-pin connector GenICam Pleora function (J2) (J5) (J4) designation AdaptRBoard GPIO7 — User TTLOUT3 dependent (PLC_Q3) GPIO6 —...
Page 46: Plc Timing
PLC Timing Internally, the PLC operates at 33.333 MHz. The PLC signals include: • GPIO_INx GPIO_OUTx • • All PLC signals remain within the PLC. For more information, see the iPORT Programmable Logic Controller Reference Guide, available on the Pleora Support Center at supportcenter.pleora.com. Table 21: PLC Signals Parameter Symbol...
Page 47: Status Leds
Chapter 4 Status LEDs The status LEDs indicate the operating status of the NTx-Mini’s network connection and firmware. The following figure and table describe the status LEDs. The NTx-Mini vertical version is shown. Power LED (labeled K) Network Connection Speed LED Network Activity LED Table 22: Status LEDs Description...
Page 49: Power
Chapter 5 Power This chapter describes how the NTx-Mini receives, distributes, and uses power. It also provides design options for powering the NTx-Mini and camera. The following topics are covered in this chapter: “Power Supply Overview” on page 44 • •...
Page 50: Power Supply Overview
Power Supply Overview Power Signals The NTx-Mini can receive or output power from a variety of sources, in addition to generating its own onboard voltage sources. To keep from accidentally referring to a specific power rail, the generic terms VIN and GND are never used. PWR, RET DC power directly from an external power supply.
Page 51: Power Supply Components
This filter is the second stage of a double-filtering power scheme recommended for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) compliance and is used by Pleora Technologies for all designs. This filter has the highest efficiency in the range of 100-400 MHz. It isolates noise generated by the NTx-Mini from the power cable, to eliminate electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Page 52: General Design Rules
NTx-Mini Internal Circuitry The internal circuitry requires 1.2 V, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and normally a VCCIO of 2.5V. If VCCIO of 3.3V is being used, the 3.3V firmware load must be used. Secondary double voltage regulators produce 1.2V, 1.8V, and 3.3V power rails from the internal 2.5V supply.
Page 53: Design Options
Design Options There are three options that are available for powering the NTx-Mini: • Design 1: Separate power supplies for the NTx-Mini and camera. Design 2: The NTx-Mini supplies power to the camera through CAMERA_VIN and/or DVCC • (2.5 V). Design 3: The camera supplies power to the NTx-Mini Embedded through CAMERA_VIN.
Page 54: Design 2: Ntx-Mini Supplies Power To The Camera Through Camera_Vin And/Or Dvcc (2.5 V)
• VCCIO must be within +/- 5% of the specified voltage and can consume +/- 5 mA. If power is supplied on the 20-pin FFC connector, the supply voltage range on the connector pins • must be within 4.4V to 16V. •...
Page 55: Design 3: Camera Supplies Power To The Ntx-Mini Through Camera_Vin
• Place a sufficient number of decoupling capacitors close to all of the ICs in the internal circuitry of the camera and close to all of the voltage regulators. This technique minimizes the noise in the GND lines between the NTx-Mini and the camera head. •...
Page 56: Power Consumption
Consider these issues when supplying CAMERA_VIN from the camera to the NTx-Mini Main board: This arrangement bypasses the NTx-Mini’s preliminary filter, including a Zener diode that • minimizes ESD damage and voltage spikes. Therefore, filtering on the camera must also protect the voltage supplied to the NTx-Mini.
Page 57: Signal Specifications
Signal Specifications The following table lists the signal-level specifications for the Main board. For the AdaptRBoard specifications, see “AdaptRBoard Signal Specifications” on page 34. Table 24: Signal Specifications — Main Board Signal Specification Minimum Typical Maximum Notes Input voltage, -0.3 V 18 V absolute max range...
Page 58 Table 24: Signal Specifications — Main Board (Continued) Signal Specification Minimum Typical Maximum Notes PIXEL_* Input voltage, -0.5 V VCCIO 3.9 V absolute max range PIXEL_* Input 7 pF capacitance PIXEL_* Output current, -25 mA 40 mA absolute max range PIXEL_* Input current, -10 uA...
Page 59 Table 24: Signal Specifications — Main Board (Continued) Signal Specification Minimum Typical Maximum Notes OUT_CLKP Output 33.333 MHz Oscillator tolerance is +/- frequency 50 ppm. IN_CLK0 Input frequency 90 MHz Power...
Page 61: Thermal Requirements
Chapter 6 Thermal Requirements This chapter provides you with the information you need to ensure the optimal operating temperature for your NTx-Mini. You should store the NTx-Mini at temperatures between -40° to +85°C. Ambient and Junction Temperatures The following table lists the components that consume the largest amount of power and will therefore be most affected by high temperatures.
Page 62 Table 25: NTx-Mini Thermal Guidelines (Continued) Reference Rating for component on standard Pleora Component and manufacturer part number designator product Winbond DDR2 : Not specified Part number: W9725G6KB-25 : Not specified : 0°C to +85°C Power consumption: ~ 200 mW Altera FPGA : Not specified Part number: EP3C25F324C8N...
Page 63: Pixel Bus Definitions
Chapter 7 Pixel Bus Definitions This chapter describes the interface responsible for transmitting data from the camera to the NTx-Mini. Mono/RGB/Bayer Table 26: Mono/RGB/Bayer Pixel Bus Definitions Mono16 / Mono8 / Mono10 / Mono12 / Bayer16 Mono14 BGR8 RGB8 Bayer8 Bayer10 Bayer12 Comp.
Page 64: Yuv 4:1:1
Table 26: Mono/RGB/Bayer Pixel Bus Definitions (Continued) Mono16 / Mono8 / Mono10 / Mono12 / Bayer16 Mono14 BGR8 RGB8 Bayer8 Bayer10 Bayer12 Comp. Bit Comp. Bit PB_Data 14 PB_Data 15 PB_Data 16 PB_Data 17 PB_Data 18 PB_Data 19 PB_Data 20 PB_Data 21 PB_Data 22 PB_Data 23...
Page 65: Yuv 4:2:2 And 4:4:4
YUV 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 Table 28: YUV 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 Pixel Bus Definitions Signal name YUV 4:2:2 (8 bit) YUV 4:4:4 PIXEL_DATA0 Clk1: U0, Clk2: V0 PIXEL_DATA1 Clk1: U1, Clk2: V1 PIXEL_DATA2 Clk1: U2, Clk2: V2 PIXEL_DATA3 Clk1: U3, Clk2: V3 PIXEL_DATA4 Clk1: U4, Clk2: V4 PIXEL_DATA5...
Page 67: Installing The Ebus Player Toolkit
Chapter 8 Installing the eBUS Player Toolkit This chapter describes how to install the eBUS Player Toolkit, and also provides information about the Pleora GigE Vision driver. The following topics are covered in this chapter: “Installing the eBUS SDK and eBUS Player Toolkit” on page 62 •...
Page 68: Installing The Ebus Sdk And Ebus Player Toolkit
Installing the eBUS SDK and eBUS Player Toolkit The eBUS SDK and eBUS Player Toolkit include applications to assist with setup, configuration, and troubleshooting. It also includes drivers that optimize the performance of your system. You can download the eBUS Player Toolkit (which is a free download) and eBUS SDK (available for purchase) from the Pleora Support Center at supportcenter.pleora.com.
Page 69: Connecting To The Ntx-Mini And Configuring General Settings
Player is documented in more detail in the eBUS Player User Guide. The iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface User Guide provides you with the eBUS Player instructions and overviews that will help you set up and configure the NTx-Mini.
Page 70: Confirming Image Streaming
Confirming Image Streaming The NTx-Mini can communicate with your computer using either a direct connection or by connecting to a GigE switch. To connect the cables and apply power • Connect the NTx-Mini to the RJ-45 Ethernet connector on your computer’s NIC or a GigE switch. Then, apply power.
Page 71: Configuring The Buffers
Configuring the Buffers You can increase the buffer count using eBUS Player to make streaming more robust. A high number of buffers are needed in high frame rate applications, while a small number of buffers are needed for lower frame rates. Latency increases as the number of buffers increases. To configure the buffers Start eBUS Player and connect to the NTx-Mini.
Page 72: Providing The Ntx-Mini With An Ip Address
Providing the NTx-Mini with an IP Address The NTx-Mini requires an IP address to communicate on a video network. The address must be on the same subnet as the computer that is performing the configuration and receiving the image stream. Configuring a Temporary IP Address for Initial Communication If the NTx-Mini’s IP address is not compatible with your computer’s NIC, you can provide it with a temporary IP address for initial connection.
Page 73: Configuring A Persistent Or Automatic (Dhcp/Lla) Ip Address
Configuring a Persistent or Automatic (DHCP/LLA) IP Address You can configure a persistent, static IP address for the NTx-Mini. Alternatively, you can configure the NTx-Mini to automatically obtain an IP address using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) or Link Local Addressing (LLA). The NTx-Mini uses its persistent IP address first, but if this option is set to False, it can be configured to attempt to obtain an address from a DHCP server.
Page 74 To turn the test pattern on or off Start eBUS Player and connect to the NTx-Mini. For more information, see “To start eBUS Player and connect to a device” on page 64. Under Parameters and Controls, click Device control. Under ImageFormatControl, click a test pattern option in the list. Close the Device Control dialog box.
Page 75: Implementing The Ebus Sdk
Click Play to see the changes. To configure the image width and height Start eBUS Player and connect to the NTx-Mini. For more information, see “To start eBUS Player and connect to a device” on page 64. If images are streaming, click the Stop button. Under Parameters and Controls, click Device control.
Page 77: Network Configurations For The Ntx-Mini
Chapter 10 Network Configurations for the NTx-Mini After you have connected to the NTx-Mini and provided it with a unique IP address on your network, you can configure it for either unicast or multicast. The following topics are covered in this chapter: “Unicast Network Configuration”...
Page 78: Unicast Network Configuration
Unicast Network Configuration In a unicast configuration, an NTx-Mini is connected to a GigE switch that sends a stream of images over Ethernet to the computer. Alternatively, the NTx-Mini can be connected directly to the computer. The computer is configured as both a data receiver and controller, and serves as a management entity for the NTx-Mini.
Page 79: Ntx-Mini Configuration - Unicast Network Configuration
NTx-Mini Configuration — Unicast Network Configuration After you have connected and applied power to the hardware components, use eBUS Player to configure the NTx-Mini. To configure the NTx-Mini for a unicast network configuration Start eBUS Player. Click Tools > Setup. Under eBUS Player Role, click Controller and data receiver.
Page 80: Multicast Network Configuration
Click Play to view a live image stream. Multicast Network Configuration In a multicast network configuration, the NTx-Mini is connected to a GigE switch, and sends a stream of images over Ethernet simultaneously to both a computer and to a vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber.
Page 81: Required Items - Multicast Network Configuration
Required Items — Multicast Network Configuration You require the following components to set up a multicast network configuration: • Camera with integrated NTx-Mini and cables • Power supply • vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber and corresponding power supply Compatible display monitor •...
Page 82: Configuring The Devices For A Multicast Network Configuration
The vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber is documented in the vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber User Guide. The iPORT NTx-Mini Embedded Video Interface User Guide provides you with the vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber instructions and overviews required to set up and configure the vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber for a multicast configuration.
Page 83 Click Device control. Click Guru in the Visibility list. In the TransportLayerControl > GigEVision category, set GevSCPHostPort to a streaming channel port (for example, 1042). Set GevSCDA to a multicast address (for example, 239.192.1.1). Close the Device Control dialog box. Now, configure the NTx-Mini, as outlined in “To configure the NTx-Mini for a multicast network configuration”...
Page 84 Under eBUS Player Role, click Controller and data receiver. Under GigE Vision Stream Destination, click Multicast and enter the IP address and Port number. The address and port must be identical to that configured for the vDisplay HDI-Pro External Frame Grabber in step 8 and 9 of “To configure the devices for a multicast network configuration”...
Page 85 Under TransportLayerControl > GigEVision, ensure that the port in the GevSCPHostPort field and the multicast IP address in the GevSCDA field are correct. They are configured automatically to the values set in step 4 of this procedure. Close the Device Control dialog box. Click Play to view the source image stream both on the computer and the display monitor.
Page 86 The multicast image is shown on the computer and the display monitor receiver, as shown below. Network Configurations for the NTx-Mini...
Page 87: Storing Images In The Ntx-Mini's Onboard Memory
Chapter 11 Storing Images in the NTx-Mini’s Onboard Memory The NTx-Mini uses onboard memory to store images from the camera before sending them to your computer. The following topics are covered in this chapter: “High-Bandwidth Bursts” on page 82 • “Calculating Onboard Memory”...
Page 88: High-Bandwidth Bursts
High-Bandwidth Bursts Though your NTx-Mini can transmit data to your computer over Ethernet at 1 Gbps, some cameras can exceed this data rate. For short, high-bandwidth data bursts from your camera, the NTx-Mini’s onboard memory can store images until they can be transmitted over the Ethernet to your computer. For sustained rates over 1 Gbps, the NTx-Mini can reduce Ethernet data by 25% by packing your image data.
Page 89: Reference: Mechanical Drawings And Material List
Chapter 12 Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List This chapter provides the NTx-Mini mechanical drawings. It also provides a list of connectors and cables, with corresponding manufacturer details. Three-dimensional (3-D) mechanical drawings are available at the Pleora Support Center at supportcenter.pleora.com The following topics are covered in this chapter: “Mechanical Drawings”...
Page 90: Mechanical Drawings
Mechanical Drawings The mechanical drawings in this section provide the NTx-Mini’s dimensions, features, and attributes. All dimensions are in millimeters. The mechanical drawings have the following tolerances: • ± .5 • ± .25 • .XX* ± .13 ANGLES: • ± 0 30 NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack Figure 6: NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack —...
Page 91 Figure 7: NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack — Underside Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 92 Figure 8: NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack — Side Views Figure 9: NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack — Front and Back Views Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 93: Ntx-Mini Main Board, Vertical Rj45 Jack
NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack Figure 10: NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack — Dimensions from Top Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 94 Figure 11: NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack — Underside Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 95 Figure 12: NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack — Side Views Figure 13: NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack — Front and Back Views Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 96: Component Heights
Component Heights Figure 14: NTx-Mini Main Board, Horizontal RJ45 Jack — Top Figure 15: NTx-Mini Main Board, Vertical RJ45 Jack — Top Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 97 Figure 16: NTx-Mini Main Board — Underside Note: The component heights are the same on the horizontal RJ45 model and the vertical RJ45 model. In this illustration, the horizontal RJ45 model is shown. Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 98: Adaptrboard
AdaptRBoard Figure 17: AdaptRBoard Component Heights Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 99 Figure 18: AdaptRBoard Connector Details Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 100 Figure 19: AdaptRBoard Primary Side Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 101: Flexeboard
FlexEBoard Figure 20: FlexEBoard Figure 21: FlexEBoard Dimensions Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 102 Figure 22: FlexEBoard — Side and Back Views Reference: Mechanical Drawings and Material List...
Page 103: Material List
Material List The connector summaries for the NTx-Mini are listed in the following table. Table 29: Connector and Cable Summary Location Description Manufacturer part number Manufacturer Main board 60 pin header 501951-6000 Molex Main board NTx-Mini vertical Ethernet jack (RJ45) 203344 (G-G) ERNI Main board...
Page 105: Appendix: Frame Buffer High Watermark
Chapter 13 Appendix: Frame Buffer High Watermark The following features can be used to help avoid the loss of image data by ensuring that there is buffer capacity for new images: Memory Water Level prevents new images from being accepted from the camera if they cannot fit •...
Page 106: Feature Descriptions
Feature Descriptions Memory Water Level GenICam Node: GrbCh0AcqCfgMemoryWaterLevel (Read/Write) Feature Description Controls the NTx-Mini memory fill level beyond which the NTx-Mini will not accept new images from the camera head. This feature prevents the capture of partial images. It is applicable when using a continuous pipe count mode (GrbCh0TrigCfgContinuousPipeCount) or when using recording acquisition modes.
Page 107: Frame Buffer High Watermark Output Control
Table 31: Enumeration Values: BufferWatermarkLevel (Read/Write) (Continued) Value Description Level50 Level set to 50% of the NTx-Mini's onboard memory. Level25 Level set to 25% of the NTx-Mini's onboard memory. Level12p5 Level set to 12.5% of the NTx-Mini's onboard memory. Level6p25 Level set to 6.25% of the NTx-Mini's onboard memory.
Page 108: Frame Buffer High Watermark Level Status
Table 32: Enumeration Values: BufferWatermarkLevelOutputControl (Read/Write) (Continued) Value Description ActiveHigh Sets the Buffer Watermark Level Output signal to low impedance and active high. When the signal is high, the status of the signal indicates the memory fill level is above the watermark. When the signal is low, the status of the signal indicates the memory fill level is below the watermark.
Page 109: Timing
Timing This section describes the latency between the data on the pixel bus and the effect on the Frame Buffer High Watermark output signal. In this section, we assume the worst case scenario: the NTx-Mini is receiving data without streaming it. As a result, all new incoming data on the pixel bus increases the frame buffer fill level.
Page 110: Configuring The Frame Buffer High Watermark Feature
Configuring the Frame Buffer High Watermark Feature This section provides an example to illustrate how you can configure the NTx-Mini to use the Frame Buffer High Watermark feature. In this example, the camera head sends images on the NTx-Mini bus faster than the Ethernet link can stream.
Page 111: Configuring The Bufferwatermarklevel
Configuring the BufferWatermarkLevel To avoid dropped images, set the Frame Buffer High Watermark feature (BufferWatermarkLevel) to a level that is lower than the result of the following equation: Example: Using our example, BufferWatermarkLevel should be set to 75% (which is the closest level below the result of the equation, which was 81.25%, as shown below): Configuring the BufferWatermarkLevelOutputControl Our example has assumed that the camera head can stop streaming images on the pixel bus when a control...
Page 112: Sample Waveforms
Sample Waveforms An image that is 3000 x 3000, Mono16, results in the following: ImageData = 3000 x 3000 x 2 = 18 MB ImageDataMemory = 18 MB + 96 bytes. Setting GrbCh0AcqCfgMemoryWaterLevel to 75% and BufferWatermarkLevel to 50% with the output pin (that is, pin 51) set to ActiveHigh, you will see the following output on a scope when the NTx-Mini is configured for 2 taps.
Page 113 In another example, using the same settings as the previous example but with the BufferWatermarkLevel set to 12.5%, you will see the following output on an oscilloscope when the NTx-Mini is configured for 2 taps. In the above diagram, the NTx-Mini is receiving data at 1.6Gbps, while it can only stream at lower than 1Gbit/s.
Page 114: Example Application Code For Frame Buffer High Watermark
Example Application Code for Frame Buffer High Watermark This feature is integrated into the eBUS SDK and the following code provides an example of how to set and read the BufferWatermarkLevel of the device. It is important to note that before you can set or read the BufferWatermarkLevel, your application must be connected to the device (mpvDevice is a PvDevice object in the code below).
Page 115: Technical Support
Chapter 14 Technical Support On the Pleora Support Center, you can: Download the latest software and firmware. • • Log a support issue. • View documentation for current and past releases. • Browse for solutions to problems other customers have encountered. •...

Pleora Technologies iPORT NTx-Mini User Manual

Quick Links

Need help?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Pleora Technologies iPORT NTx-Mini

Summary of Contents for Pleora Technologies iPORT NTx-Mini

Table of Contents