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CamExpert Quick Start
Xtium-CL PX4 User's Manual
Camera Files Distributed with Sapera
The Sapera distribution includes camera files for a selection of Xtium-CL PX4 supported cameras.
Using the Sapera CamExpert program, you may use the camera files (CCA) provided to generate a
camera configuration file (CCF) that describes the desired camera and frame grabber
configuration..
Teledyne DALSA continually updates a camera application library composed of application
information and prepared camera files. Camera files are ASCII text, readable with Windows
Notepad on any computer without having Sapera installed.
Overview of Sapera Acquisition Parameter Files (*.ccf or *.cca/*.cvi)
Concepts and Differences between the Parameter Files
There are two components to the legacy Sapera acquisition parameter file set: CCA files (also
called cam-files) and CVI files (also called VIC files, i.e. video input conditioning). The files store
video-signal parameters (CCA) and video conditioning parameters (CVI), which in turn simplifies
programming the frame-grabber acquisition hardware for the camera in use. Sapera LT 5.0
introduces a new camera configuration file (CCF) that combines the CCA and CVI files into one file.
Typically, a camera application will use a CCF file per camera operating mode (or one CCA file in
conjunction with several CVI files, where each CVI file defines a specific camera-operating mode).
An application can also have multiple CCA/CCF files to support different image format modes
supported by the camera or sensor (such as image binning or variable ROI).
CCF File Details
A file using the “.CCF” extension, (Camera Configuration files), is the camera (CCA) and frame
grabber (CVI) parameters grouped into one file for easier configuration file management. This is
the default Camera Configuration file used with Sapera LT 5.0 and the CamExpert utility.
CCA File Details
Teledyne DALSA distributes camera files using the legacy “.CCA” extension, (CAMERA files), which
contain all parameters describing the camera video signal characteristics and operation modes
(what the camera outputs). The Sapera parameter groups within the file are:
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Video format and pixel definition
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Video resolution (pixel rate, pixels per line, lines per frame)
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Synchronization source and timing
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Channels/Taps configuration
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Supported camera modes and related parameters
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External signal assignment
CVI File Details
Legacy files using the “.CVI” extension contain all operating parameters related to the frame
grabber board - what the frame grabber can actually do with camera controls or incoming video.
The Sapera parameter groups within the file are:
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Activate and set any supported camera control mode or control variable.
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Define the integration mode and duration.
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Define the strobe output control.
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Allocate the frame grabber transfer ROI, the host video buffer size and buffer type
(RGB888, RGB101010, MONO8, and MONO16).
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Configuration of line/frame trigger parameters such as source (internal via the frame
grabber /external via some outside event), electrical format (TTL, RS-422, OPTO-isolated),
and signal active edge or level characterization.