Tau Camera Link Module - FLIR Tau Camera TAU-0035-00-10 User Manual

2—Optional Tau Camera Accessories
2.2

Tau Camera Link Module

The Camera Link module is an expansion board for the Tau camera that provides a convenient
way for customers to power and communicate with the camera via USB and access LVDS
digital video with a high-speed Camera Link channel. The Camera Link module also incorporates
an MCX connector that outputs analog video.
The Camera Link Module takes CMOS-type digital data from the Tau camera and converts it to
Camera Link. In order to use a Camera Link module for acquisition of data, you will need to first
enable the CMOS XP Bus Output using the FLIR Camera Controller GUI. See "Digital Video Tab"
on page 3-20. On this same page, you can select either 8-bit or 14-bit digital output. Once you
make these changes, it is a good idea to save settings to make them power cycle consistent.
See "Save Settings" on page 3-14.
The Camera Link module accessory comes with the spacers and mounting screws shown in
Figure 2-2. Note that Camera Link cable, frame grabber, or capture software are not included.
For instructions on installing the Camera Link Accessory refer to paragraph 3.1.2 "Installing
the Camera Link Module" on page 3-2.
Mounting screws
M1.6 × 0.35 × 8 mm SHCS
MCX coaxial
(analog video)
Mini Camera Link
(digital video)
Spacer
Ø3 mm × 3.1 mm
Figure 2-2: Tau Camera Link Module Installed on a Tau camera
The Tau camera is powered using the USB connector with a nominal draw of 230 mA at 5VDC
and a peak startup draw of 550 mA. The camera uses serial communication at either 57600
or 921600 Baud by creating a virtual COM Port on your computer for USB communications.
The Baud Rate is selected using auto-Baud and the camera will communicate at the first Baud
Rate in which it receives a valid command until it is powered off.
The digital data complies with Base Camera Link standards and should be compatible with any
brand Camera Link Frame Grabber and software. The FLIR Camera Controller allows for control
of the Tau camera, but does not support Camera Link frame capture and third-party software
must be used.
External sync is not possible with the Camera Link module.
2-2
M1.6 × 0.35 × 16 mm SHCS
June 2011
Tau User's Manual
Power status light
Mini USB
Mounting screws
TAU-0035-00-10, version 150