Prosilica GX Technical Manual V2.0.8
10
Introduction
Cleaning optics
Identifying debris
Debris on the image sensor or optical components appears as a darkened area
or smudge on a camera image. Do not confuse this with a pixel defect which
appears as a distinct point.
Locating debris
First determine whether the debris is on the sensor glass, IR filter (if used), or
lens. The farther away the debris is from the sensor, the blurrier the debris
appears on a camera image.
Stream a live image from the camera using a uniform target, such as a piece of
paper. To determine if the debris is on the camera lens, rotate the lens indepen-
dent of the camera. If the spot moves, the debris is on the lens. Otherwise, the
debris is on the IR filter (if used) or the sensor glass.
Color cameras with IR filter
Prosilica GX color cameras are equipped with an IR filter. With no lens or lens
cap on a camera, the IR filter is exposed and debris can accumulate on it. This is
the most probable location for debris. It should not be necessary to remove the
IR filter for cleaning. Clean the outside of the IR filter glass using the tech-
niques explained in the next section.
If it is determined that the debris is on the inside surface of the filter glass, or
on the sensor glass, IR filter removal is necessary. Depending on the manufac-
turing date of your Prosilica GX camera, the IR filter may be slot type, or pinhole
type. Slot type filters can be removed using a small flat head screw driver. Pin-
hole type filters require a pin spanner wrench for removal.
Caution
AVT does not warranty against any physical damage to the sen-
sor/filter/protection glass or lenses.
Use utmost care when
cleaning optical components
.
Caution
Do not touch any optics with fingers. Oil from fingers can
damage fragile optical coatings.
