Compact Scientific Digital Cameras
Chapter 3: Setup & Installation
Page 6
ITN004586-D02
Chapter 3
Setup & Installation
3.1.
Pre-Installation - USB 3.0
Your camera will only operate when connected to a
USB 3.0 “SS” (Super Speed) port on your PC. USB 2.0 ports
are not supported at this time. A USB 3.0 compatible port is typically blue - but not always. Look for this symbol
above the port to be sure:
If your computer does not have a USB 3.0 port, it is likely an indication that it is an older machine, and you should
consult our recommended configuration. If you must use that machine, Thorlabs recommends our PCIe USB 3.0
card (
Thorlabs’ part number USB3-PCIE).
Recommended Installation Sequence
1. Run the software installer, follow the steps outlined in the next section.
2. Connect the camera, power will be applied when connected to a USB 3.0 port. See section 3.3.
3. Your PC should discover the new USB device and install the necessary drivers. This may take a minute or
so for the first instance.
4. Run the ThorCam application software.
3.2.
Installing the Software
The Thorlabs camera software runs on Windows 7, 8.1, and 10 operating systems ONLY.
3.2.1. Download and Run the Installation File
3.2.2.
You may download the latest version of software from our webpage
ThorCam™ Software for Scientific
Choose the appropriate installation format, 32-bit or 64-bit and download the file to
your host computer. You cannot install the 32-bit version on a 64-bit computer. Double-click the file to run the
installation.
Software Designer Kits (SDKs) for Windows and Linux are also available at the same download page.
3.2.3. Driver Selection
Your camera requires a driver to be installed on your computer. After the welcome screen, acceptance of the license
agreement, and entering your user information, you will be presented with a choice of drivers. Select the driver that
matches the interface on your camera, in this case USB3.0. Thorlabs offers various cameras with Gigabit Ethernet
or Camera Link interfaces. If you have more than one camera, and they have different interfaces, select all that
apply. If you’re unsure, select them all.