December 16, 2008 – JAI added a 16-megapixel high performance CCD camera to the C3 Camera Suite. This new progressive scan camera incorporates the Kodak KAI-16000 dual-tap sensor to deliver full 4872 x 3248 pixel resolution at 3 frames per second. The new high resolution camera is available in two models: AM-1600CL (monochrome) and AB-1600CL (raw Bayer color). Both models feature Camera Link interfaces offering user-selectable 8-bit, 10-bit, or 12-bit output. As a member of the Advanced tier of the C3 Camera Suite, JAI has designed the camera to be both high performing and highly reliable.
A series of pre-processing functions are built into the camera to achieve high image quality while offloading these tasks from the user’s host PC. Available functions include a look-up table (LUT) to adjust image contrast (gamma correction), a built-in blemish compensation function to correct for defective pixels, automatic channel balancing, and a flat-field compensation function (available in monochrome models only) to correct for non-uniform sensor response using per-pixel gain and offset adjustments or image subtraction. Image quality also benefits from JAI’s precise alignment of the large 43.3 mm diagonal sensor.
JAI uses a variety of alignment procedures to ensure that the camera’s CCD is centered on the optical path with less than ±0.1 millimeters variance in the X and Y directions, ±0.05 millimeters in the Z direction, and ±1 degree of rotation. Along with these high-end features, the new 16-megapixel camera receives the same extensive shock and vibration testing as lower resolution models to maximize its ability to withstand the rigors of industrial environments (70 G shock, 10 G vibration – 20Hz to 200 Hz XYZ). The camera also features a specialized internal heat sink and a ridged housing design which combine to produce exceptional thermal management and low noise operation.
Standard operating features of the AM-1600CL and AB-1600CL models include pre-select and pulse-width trigger modes, and an electronic shutter with 10 preset speeds or user-programmable settings from 1/3 to 1/3378 seconds in increments of 98.66 µs. Partial scan modes are available on both models, while the monochrome model also features 2X binning modes in both horizontal and vertical directions.Core applications for the AM-1600CL and AB-1600CL include flat panel LCD inspection, solar panel inspection, PCB inspection, 3D metrology, biometrics, and microscopy, among others. The cameras also include analog video output for controlling auto-iris lenses, making them suitable for numerous high-end outdoor uses including surveillance, aerial imaging, and homeland security applications.
AM-1600CL and AB-1600CL cameras can be ordered with either P-mount or F-mount lens mounts. Custom lens mount designs are also possible for large quantity orders.
