Photron FASTCAM SA-Z, Hardware Manual

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3.2. Selecting the Frame Rate
Images can be recorded with the system from 60 fps (50 fps with PAL) to 20,000 fps using the full
1,024x1,024 pixel resolution of the image sensor. For frame rates higher than 20,000 fps, high-speed
recording is achieved by limiting the read area of the image sensor. Binning is NOT used.
•
The minimum frame rate in NTSC mode is 60 fps.
•
The minimum frame rate in PAL mode is 50 fps.
3.2.1. Switching Frame Rate (20K mode Function)
This camera has two different frame rate setting modes, which can be switched from one to the other
as needed. The 20K mode is set ON by default. By setting it OFF, however, the system can be
operated with higher image quality.
The details of each mode are shown below:
•
20K Mode ON (Note: Export-controlled models have a different maximum frame rate)

The maximum frame rate is224,000fps
～
2,100,000fps (with image resolution of 128 x 8 pixels).

When full frame: 20,000 fps max.

The image resolution is slightly higher than that of the 20 K mode “OFF” at the same frame rate.
•
20K Mode OFF (Note: Export-controlled models have a different maximum frame rate)

The maximum frame rate is 224,000fps
～
288,000fps (with image resolution of 128 x 8 pixels).

When full frame: 8,000fps max.

The image resolution is slightly lower than that of the 20K mode “ON” at the same frame rate.

.The image quality of the 20K mode “OFF” can be higher than that of the 20K mode “ON” at the
same frame rate.
•
The user may choose either mode depending on the frame rate and image quality required by the
particular application.
Table of frame rates and image resolutions, refer to “5.1.4. Frame Rate and Resolution”, page 84.
•
There may be adverse effect introduced to the image quality (such as horizontal line-like noise)
when the frame rate or shutter speed is changed. To eliminate such a defect, calibration must be
carried out before resuming a recording with a new setting of frame rate and/or shutter speed (refer
to “3.1.1. Executing Calibration. Frame Rate and Resolution”, page 25).
27 FASTCAM SA-Z Hardware Manual