M-Series Overview
8
432-0003-00-10 Rev 150 — M-Series Operator’s Manual
One M-Series model (indicated by an S suffix) includes a mechanical
stabilization feature that improves image stability. The stabilization feature
compensates for the motion of the vessel and improves the utility of the camera
video output when operating in rough seas or swell conditions.
For a complete list of models and a comparison of key features, see “Feature
Comparison of M-Series Models” on page 68. The differences in camera
operation are noted in relevant locations in the manual.
The M-Series consists of two main components:
•
The gimbal assembly, also known as the pan/tilt camera unit. A gimbal is a
pivoted support that allows the rotation of an object such as a ship’s compass
about a single axis.
•
The joystick control unit (JCU).
In this manual, the term
camera
may refer to the entire camera unit/gimbal
assembly, or it may refer specifically to either the thermal camera or the visible
camera, depending on the context in which it is used.
The M-Series gimbal and JCU are network devices. In some installations,
additional cameras and JCUs will also be used, and networking equipment such
as Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches may be used to interconnect these
components.
M-Series Gimbal Assembly
The gimbal assembly has a pan/tilt mechanism that allows the camera to rotate
continuously 360° in azimuth, and to tilt plus or minus 90° in elevation. The
M-Series imaging sensors are contained in the ball of the gimbal assembly.
The thermal infrared camera uses an uncooled vanadium oxide (VOx) detector
sensitive to long-wave infrared (LWIR) thermal energy. The camera is sensitive to
the thermal energy that comes from the movement of atoms and molecules that
make up whatever the camera is pointed at. All objects emit (or radiate) thermal
energy, even cold objects like icebergs.
Video Options
The M-Series gimbal assembly has either one or two video cables:
•
The cable labeled IR is for the composite—also known as analog—video
signal from the thermal (infrared) camera. This is the only cable on single
payload cameras.
•
On dual payload models, the cable labeled VIS/IR is for video from either the
thermal camera or the visible camera. You use the JCU to determine which
output displays.
The video from dual payload models can be output on one or two video displays.
If only a single display with a single video input is available, connect the cable
labeled VIS/IR to the display. If the display has more than one video input, both
Base
Ball
Side
Cover
Bezel
Yoke
Gimbal Assembly
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