Install the Camera Control (PCle) Card & Driver
Cooling Guidelines
Troubleshoot
Connect the Camera and Switch on
MAN-09064
IX888SG 0721 R1
4
6
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5
1. Unplug all cables from the rear of the computer. Open the PC enclosure to
gain access to the expansion slots.
2. Locate a suitable PCIe slot:
use an x4 PCIe slot only.
If you are unsure which
slot is correct, please consult the PC user manual.
3.
Remove the filler bracket corresponding to the slot you intend to use.
4. Remove the USB 3.0 card from its protective ESD packaging and insert fully
into the expansion slot.
5.
Ensure the card’s mounting bracket is flush with any other mounting or filler
brackets to either side of it, then secure the controller card in place.
6. Replace the computer cover and secure with mounting screws if applicable.
7. Reconnect any accessories you were using previously.
• Attach the camera to lens or optical system using the
camera C-mount interface as required.
• Insert the 12 V DC power cable into the power connector
on the bottom plate of the camera, ensure the orientation is
correct.
NEVER
forcibly insert the connector.
• Connect the supplied USB 3.0 cable between the USB 3.0
connector on the camera and the corresponding slot on the
PC.
•
If required, connect the I/O expander cable to the I/O 15
way D type connector.
• Switch the camera ON using the ON/OFF switch. You
should hear an audible confirmation (camera start-up tone).
• Turn ON the PC.
• Start your software.
•
View and adjust the acquisition settings as required.
•
Start acquiring data.
iXon Ultra & Life 888 Connections
Note: Only use the USB 3.0 cable supplied by Andor to ensure performance.
1. The iXon Ultra and Life 888 overclock the CCD-201 sensor which generates more heat from the sensor.
2. These models retain the cooling technology and the cooling performance of other iXons at lower readout
speeds (10 MHz and below ). At higher readout speeds it is necessary to set a higher cooled temperature: -55°C
is acceptable in most modes – refer to the user manual for model details.
3. At higher readout speeds (and shorter exposures) dark current is less important, so this higher CCD operating
temperature is expected to be an acceptable compromise.
If an unusual crop mode or operating regime is required please find the camera’s temperature settling point before
starting the measurement.
1. Set max cooling -110°C.
2. Run the camera in intended mode for 20 minutes.
3. Note cooling temperature achieved.
4. Set a temperature 2-5°C warmer as the set point.
5.
Run required measurement.
If the temperature control circuit unlocks during a measurement it will impact on measurement accuracy, in
particular EM gain calibration.
Unused filler brackets
Gently press the
card into the slot
PCIe
Slot
Secure the card
to the PC
USB 3.0
Connection
External
I/O
Power
Connector
On/Off
Switch
USB
3.0
Camera
Link *
Install the USB 3.0 PCIe Card Driver manually (not required for Windows 10)
USB 3.0 PCIe card drivers must be installed manually for PCs running versions prior to Windows 10.
See Startech’s website: www.startech.com/downloads enter product code PEXUSB3S25 and hit Search. If a later
driver is available, download and install.
Disable Power Management for the “Renesas USB 3.0 Host Controller”:
1. Navigate to ‘Renesas USB 3.0 Host Controller’ properties menu in
Device Manager
(Control Panel>Device
Manager> Universal Serial Bus Controllers). Select the
Advanced
tab.
2. Check the
Disable USB 3.0 power management functions
checkbox.
* Ultra models only.
Note: Always ensure that the temperature of the liquid coolant circulated through the camera head
is above the dew point of the camera ambient. Use of coolant at or below the dew point will result in
permanent damage to the camera head, due to formation of condensation on internal components.
Camera start-up tone does not sound on start-up
• The camera start-up tone should be audible momentarily when the camera is switched to ON.
• If this does not occur, ensure that power is connected to the camera and the ON/OFF switch is set to ON.
Support Device not recognised when plugged into PC
• Choose another USB port.
Temperature Trip Alarm sounds (continuous tone)
Should the buzzer sound ensure the following:
Air Cooling
•
Check that the air vents on the camera are not blocked and there is sufficient clearance (100 mm) around the
camera.
• The ambient air temperature is not above 30ºC.
• The fan has not been deactivated (or the speed set too low) in software.
Please see the Hardware Guide for further information on Troubleshooting.
Online access to technical documentation and software downloads is available at:
Ensure that the Camera ON/OFF switch is in the OFF position AND your PC is switched OFF.
Ensure your PC is powered off.
Ensure anti-static precautions and use the anti-static strap provided to prevent
potential damage ESD. Keep all screws safe.
