Mv mipi camera manual
1 MV series and RAW series MIPI camea module manual
1.1 Overview
The MV Series and RAW Series are camera module families designed for machine vision applications. These products feature stable performance, compact form factor, and cost efficiency, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial and embedded vision systems.
In addition to the standard Video Streaming Mode, the cameras also support Trigger Mode and a range of trigger-related functions, enabling synchronized image acquisition and precise control, which are essential for machine vision applications.
The RAW Series cameras include only an auxiliary control unit and do not integrate an ISP (Image Signal Processor). Therefore, their functionality is a subset of that provided by the MV Series. In the following sections of this document, each feature will clearly indicate whether it is supported by RAW Series cameras.
To help users quickly start development, we provide a complete set of development resources, including:
- Software and hardware documentation
- Register reference manual
- Embedded platform drivers
- Example programs (Demos)
This document focuses on the functional features and operating principles of the MV Series and RAW Series products. For the following topics, please refer to the corresponding dedicated documents:
- Hardware Interface Manual
- Register Reference Manual
- Configuration Script Guide
- Drivers and user guides for different embedded platforms
In this document, each feature section includes a [Related Commands] field that lists the commands in the mv_mipi_i2c.sh script associated with the feature. These commands can be used for camera configuration and debugging.
1.1.1 Product Series
1.1.1.1 MV Series
The MV Series camera modules integrate an ISP (Image Signal Processor) and an auxiliary control unit. The ISP is responsible for image processing functions such as exposure control, gain adjustment, and various image enhancement algorithms, enabling the camera to output processed image data.
The MV Series supports two primary image acquisition modes:
- Video Streaming Mode
- Trigger Mode
In Video Streaming Mode, the camera continuously outputs image frames according to the configured frame rate.
In Trigger Mode, image acquisition is initiated by an external trigger signal. This mode is widely used in machine vision systems such as automated inspection, industrial measurement, and robotic vision applications.
In addition, the MV Series supports multiple trigger-related features, allowing more flexible and precise control of image acquisition.
1.1.1.2 RAW Series
The RAW Series camera modules do not include an ISP. Instead, they contain only an auxiliary control unit responsible for sensor configuration, basic control functions, and trigger signal handling.
Compared with the MV Series, the trigger-related functionality is simplified.
Since no ISP is present, RAW Series cameras output raw image data directly from the image sensor, and all image processing must be performed on the host system.
Therefore, the functionality of the RAW Series is a subset of the MV Series features.
1.1.1.3 Feature Comparison
The following table summarizes the main differences between MV Series and RAW Series camera modules.
The next section provides a comparison of their key features.
| Feature | MV Series | RAW Series |
|---|---|---|
| ISP | Yes | No |
| Image Processing | Built-in ISP | Host-side processing |
| Trigger Mode | Supported | Supported (simplified) |
| Image Output | Processed image | Raw sensor data |
| Drivers / Registers / Control Scripts | Compatible | Compatible |
1.1.2 Camera Module List
| Series | Model | Max Resolution | Shutter Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| MV series | MV-MIPI-IMX178M | 3088×2064@22.3 fps | Rolling |
| MV-MIPI-IMX287M | 720×544 @ 523fps RAW8
720×544 @ 437fps RAW10 720×544 @ 320fps RAW12 |
Global | |
| MV-MIPI-SC130M | 1280×1024@214fps RAW8
1280×1024@177fps RAW10 |
Global | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX296M | 1456×1088@60.3fps | Global | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX265M | 2064×1544@55fps | Global | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX264M | 2464×2056@35fps | Global | |
| MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M | 4lane@8bit mode:2048 x 1200 @213fps
4lane@10bit mode:2048 x 1200 @185fps 4lane@12bit mode:2048 x 1200 @158fps 2lane@8bit mode:2048 x 1200 @112fps 2lane@10bit mode:2048 x 1200 @99fps 2lane@12bit mode:2048 x 1200 @84fps |
Global | |
| RAW series | RAW-MIPI-SC132M | 1080×1280@120fps | Global |
| RAW-MIPI-IMX462M | 4lane mode@RAW10:1944 x 1096 @120fps
2lane mode@RAW10/RAW12:1944 x 1096 @60fps |
Rolling | |
| RAW-MIPI-AR0234M | 4lane mode:1920 x 1200 @120fps
2lane mode:1920 x 1200 @60fps |
Global | |
| RAW-MIPI-SC535M | 4lane@8bit mode:2448 x 2048 @83fps
4lane@10bit mode:2448 x 2048 @80fps 4lane@12bit mode:2448 x 2048 @70fps 2lane@8bit mode:2448 x 2048 @54fps 2lane@10bit mode:2448 x 2048 @42fps 2lane@12bit mode:2448 x 2048 @35fps |
Global |
1.2 Image Acquisition
This chapter describes the image acquisition mechanisms of the MV Series and RAW Series cameras, including sensor exposure methods, acquisition control, video streaming mode, and trigger modes. Behavior and performance may vary depending on the sensor type used.
1.2.1 Shutter Types
Camera sensors implement either rolling shutter or global shutter exposure modes. These modes affect motion imaging and trigger behavior.
1.2.1.1 Rolling shutter
In rolling shutter sensors, each row of pixels starts and ends exposure sequentially.
- The first row begins exposure
- Each subsequent row begins exposure after a row period
- After the first row completes exposure, readout starts
- Rows are read sequentially until the frame is fully output
Characteristics:
- Simple structure
- Lower cost
- Suitable for high-resolution imaging
- Best suited for static scenes or slow-moving targets
1.2.1.2 Global shutter
Global shutter sensors expose all pixels simultaneously and end exposure simultaneously. After exposure, charges are transferred to storage and read out row by row.
Advantages:
- All pixels sample simultaneously
- No motion distortion
- Ideal for high-speed targets, industrial inspection, robotics, and motion tracking
1.2.2 Start and Stop Acquisition
You can send the start acquisition and stop acquisition commands to the camera at any time.
Once the camera receives the start acquisition command, if working in video streaming mode, it will immediately start exposure and output images; if working in trigger mode, it will enter the state of waiting for the trigger signal. At the same time, the camera enters the running state.
Once the camera receives the stop acquisition command, it will complete the currently transmitting frames to ensure frame integrity, and then stop outputting images and enter the standby state. Note that the triggering process will be interrupted if triggering multiple frames is set and not all image frames have been output yet. That is, stopping the acquisition operation only guarantees the integrity of the current frame, not the entire trigger cycle.
Users can send start or stop acquisition commands at any time.
- Start acquisition:
- Video streaming mode: camera begins continuous output according to the configured frame rate
- Trigger mode: camera enters waiting state for trigger signals
The camera enters the running state.
- Stop acquisition:
- Complete the current frame to ensure data integrity
- Stop output
- Camera enters standby state
Note: In multi-frame trigger sequences, stop acquisition may interrupt ongoing sequences. Only the current frame integrity is guaranteed.
Related commands :imgacq.
1.2.3 Workmodes
The camera may support multiple workmodes, including Video Stream Mode, Normal Trigger Mode, Level Trigger Mode, and Rolling Shutter Multi-Frame Trigger Mode. The types of workmodes supported may vary depending on the camera model and can be queried using the trgmodecap command.
Related commands: trgmodecap, trgmode
1.2.3.1 Switching Workmodes
Workmodes cannot be switched directly while the camera is running. To change the workmode, the following procedure must be followed:
- Send the Stop Capture command.
- Wait for the camera to enter Standby state.
- Modify the workmode configuration.
- Restart capture.
Related command: trgmode
1.2.4 Video streaming mode
In video streaming mode, the camera continuously outputs frames according to the configured ROI and frame rate (FPS).
Maximum supported FPS may vary with ROI size. After modifying ROI, query the maximum FPS using the maxfps command.
Related commands :trgmode,roi,fps,maxfps.
1.2.5 Normal trigger mode
In normal trigger mode, it is recommended to set the fps to the maxfps value to ensure the highest trigger signal responsiveness.
1.2.5.1 Rolling shutter
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX178M.
For a rolling shutter sensor, such as IMX178, a complete image frame requires two image cycles to complete the process from exposure to output. So the maximum frame rate is half of the video streaming mode.
In normal trigger mode, for rolling shutter sensor, we refer to two consecutive frame cycles as one trigger cycle.
In normal trigger mode, if multiple frames are triggered at one time, the trigger delay acts after this trigger signal, and the trigger interval and exposure delay are valid before each trigger cycle.
The following figure shows an example of a trigger period with Trigger Number set to 2:
1.2.5.2 Smartsens's Global shutter
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-SC130M,RAW-MIPI-SC132M,RAW-MIPI-SC535M,RAW-MIPI-AR0234M.
For Smartsens's global shutter sensor, such as the SC130GS, a complete image frame requires an exposure time and a read out cycle to complete. The second frame can be exposed only after the read out cycle is completed.
In normal trigger mode, for the global shutter sensor, we call one exp time and one read out cycle a trigger cycle.
Therefore the maximum frame rate in trigger mode is influenced by the length of the exposure time,and cannot achieve the same frame rate as the video streaming mode.
The following figure shows an example of a trigger period with Trigger Number set to 2:
For RAW series modules, Exposure Delay is not supported.
1.2.5.3 Sony's Global shutter
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX296M,MV-MIPI-IMX265M,MV-MIPI-IMX264M,MV-MIPI-IMX287M,MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M.
For Sony's global shutter sensor, the readout of the previous frame and the exposure of the next frame can be synchronized in the trigger mode.
Therefore, it is possible to achieve almost the same external trigger frame rate as in video streaming mode.
1.2.6 Pulse trigger mode
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX296M,MV-MIPI-IMX265M,MV-MIPI-IMX264M,MV-MIPI-IMX287M,MV-MIPI-SC130M,MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M,RAW-MIPI-SC535M.
In pulse trigger mode, the width of the level signal controls the exposure time.
This mode does not support parameters such as trigger delay, trigger interval, or trigger count, but it does support the trigger filter and the exposure delay parameter.
1.2.7 Rolling shutter multi-frame trigger mode
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX178M.
In high-speed trigger mode, assume Trigger Number is N, frames 2 to N are output immediately after the previous frame and there is no more trigger interval. This allows the same maximum frame rate to be achieved as in video streaming mode.
The following figure shows an example of a trigger period with Trigger Number set to 3:
1.2.8 Switching of modes
The working mode cannot be switched during operation; you must stop the acquisition before switch to a new working mode.
1.2.9 Trigger source
The soft trigger and hard trigger are only different in the source of trigger signal. The trigger delay, exposure delay, trigger frame number, trigger interval configurations and functions are exactly the same.
Note that the Trigger Source setting is only valid for Normal Trigger Mode and Rolling Shutter Multi-Frame Trigger Mode.
Related commands :trgsrc.
1.2.9.1 Software trigger mode
Software trigger is implemented via the I²C bus. Writing 1 to the corresponding camera register initiates a single software trigger.
Due to processing and I²C transmission delays, software triggers generally have lower timing accuracy compared with hardware triggers. Therefore, for applications that require high trigger responsiveness, hardware trigger is recommended.
Related commands :trgone.
1.2.9.2 Hardware trigger mode
In hardware trigger mode, the camera acquires trigger signals from the TrigIN IO pin by detecting changes in its logic level.
Hardware trigger provides higher precision and faster response, making it suitable for machine vision applications that demand strict synchronization and real-time performance.
For details on trigger signal input and IO configuration, refer to the IO Control chapter.
1.2.10 Trigger statistics
The trigger statistics feature records the number of trigger events during camera operation and tracks any missed triggers.
- Total Trigger Count
- Hardware trigger mode: the number of valid triggers after trigger filtering
- Software trigger mode: the total number of software triggers
- Missed Trigger Count When the camera is in an active trigger cycle, additional hardware or software trigger signals cannot be processed immediately, resulting in missed triggers.
Note: Switching the acquisition mode or trigger source does not automatically clear trigger statistics.
Related commands :trgcount, trgclr.
1.3 Image Feature
1.3.1 Pixel Format
The output format of MV series cameras is compliant with the MIPI CSI-2 standard, and the supported pixel formats may vary from model to model. Refer to the following table.
| Model | Pixel Format | Note |
|---|---|---|
| MV-MIPI-IMX178M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 12bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-SC130M | Mono8,Mono10 | sensor's AD is 10bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-IMX296M | Mono8,Mono10 | sensor's AD is 10bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-IMX287M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 8,10,12bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-IMX265M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 12bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-IMX264M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 12bit-depth |
| MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor的AD is 10,12bit-depth |
| RAW-MIPI-SC132M | Mono8,Mono10 | sensor's AD is 10bit-depth |
| RAW-MIPI-IMX462M | Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 10,12bit-depth |
| RAW-MIPI-AR0234M | Mono8,Mono10 | sensor's AD is 10bit-depth |
| RAW-MIPI-SC535M | Mono8,Mono10,Mono12 | sensor's AD is 12bit-depth |
Related commands :fmtcap, pixelformat.
1.3.2 Image size and Max framerate
Image size depends on the sensor. It varies from model to model.
The maximum image frame rate depends on the sensor and the camera processing power, and the maximum frame rate varies for different image sizes.
After setting the completed image size (ROI area), the camera will automatically calculate the maximum frame rate and provide it to the user for reference.
The maximum frame rates for typical sizes are shown in the following table.
| model | size | max framerate | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| MV-MIPI-IMX178M | 3088 × 2064 | 22.3 | Max size |
| 2592 x 1944 | 28.15 | ||
| 2560 x 2048 | 27 | ||
| 1920 x 1080 | 67 | ||
| MV-MIPI-SC130M | 1280 × 1024 | 214 | Max size,RAW8 |
| 1280 x 720 | 249 | RAW8 | |
| 640 x 480 | 367 | RAW8 | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX296M | 1456×1088 | 60.3 | Max size |
| 1280 x 720 | 90 | ||
| MV-MIPI-IMX287M | 720x544 | 523 | RAW8 |
| 437 | RAW10 | ||
| 320 | RAW12 | ||
| MV-MIPI-IMX265M | 2064×1544 | 55 | Max size |
| MV-MIPI-IMX264M | 2464×2056 | 35 | Max size |
| 1920 x 1080 | 67 | ||
| MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M | 2048 x 1200@4lane RAW8 | 213 | |
| 2048 x 1200@4lane RAW10 | 185 | ||
| 2048 x 1200@4lane RAW12 | 158 | ||
| 2048 x 1200@2lane RAW8 | 112 | ||
| 2048 x 1200@2lane RAW10 | 99 | ||
| 2048 x 1200@2lane RAW12 | 84 | ||
| RAW-MIPI-SC132M | 1080×1280 | 120 | Max size |
| RAW-MIPI-IMX462M | 1920x1088@4lane raw10 | 120 | |
| 1920x1088@2lane raw10/12 | 60 | ||
| RAW-MIPI-AR0234M | 1920x1200@4lane | 120 | |
| 1920x1200@2lane | 60 | ||
| RAW-MIPI-SC535M | 2448 x 2048@4lane RAW8 | 100 | |
| 2448 x 2048@4lane RAW10 | 82 | ||
| 2448 x 2048@4lane RAW12 | 70 | ||
| 2448 x 2048@2lane RAW8 | 53 | ||
| 2448 x 2048@2lane RAW10 | 43 | ||
| 2448 x 2048@2lane RAW12 | 36 |
The actual frame rate can be less than the maximum frame rate and can be set to a decimal number.
To guarantee the camera frame rate, we specify that the maximum exposure time cannot be greater than [1/fps] seconds.
Related commands:maxwh,maxfps,fps。
1.3.3 ROI area
Only specific areas of the image can be transmitted by setting the camera's region of interest (ROI).
The parameters of the output region include the horizontal offset (x), vertical offset (y), width (w), and height (h) of the output region.
In the case of full-frame output, the coordinates of the top-left corner of the image are (0, 0).
By default, the ROI area of the camera is the full resolution area of the sensor.
1.3.3.1 ROI parameter requirements
[x] ,[y], [height] must be 4-aligned and [width] must be 8-aligned.
| model | minimum ROI area | Note |
|---|---|---|
| MV-MIPI-IMX178M | 376 x 320 | |
| MV-MIPI-SC130M | 64 x 64 | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX296M | 80x4 | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX287M | 264x4 | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX265M | 264x4 | |
| MV-MIPI-IMX264M | 264x4 | |
| MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M | 64x64 | |
| RAW-MIPI-SC132M | 64x64 | |
| RAW-MIPI-IMX462M | 368x304 | |
| RAW-MIPI-AR0234M | 64x64 | |
| RAW-MIPI-SC535M | 64x64 |
The camera will make necessary adjustments to the user parameters to meet the parameter requirements.
So it is highly recommended that you read out the actual ROI parameters after writing them.
Related commands:roi.
1.3.4 Mirror and Flip
This function is relatively easy to understand. A special note is that with both ROI and Mirror/Flip on, the image is first ROI cropped, and then mirrored/flipped.
Related commands:imgdir.
1.3.5 Blacklevel
Currently the application range of the black level value can only be selected for all pixels, and pixel selection is not supported. The lower the black level value, the darker the image is; the higher the black level value, the brighter the image is.
Related command: blacklevel.
1.3.6 Test Pattern
1.3.6.1 MV-MIPI-IMX178M
The following is an example of the test chart pattern in 12bit data format.
1.3.6.1.1 IMX178 Mode 1: Grayscale gradient test pattern
The value of the first column is 0, and the grayscale value increases by 4 for each column to the right.
1.3.6.1.2 IMX178 Mode 2: Vertical stripe test chart
The pixels in each column are FFEh/555h/AAAh/001h in order.
1.3.6.2 MV-MIPI-SC130M,RAW-MIPI-SC132M,RAW-MIPI-SC535M
1.3.6.2.1 Mode 1: Grayscale gradient test pattern
1.3.6.3 RAW-MIPI-AR0234M
1.3.6.3.1 Mode 1:Solid Color Test Pattern
1.3.6.3.2 Mode 2:color bar
Related command: testimg.
1.4 ISP
Generally, only manual exposure and manual gain are supported by RAW series cameras in this section. However, RAW-MIPI-AR0234M does support AEC control.
Functions supported by RAW-MIPI-AR0234M include:
AAROI,Manual Exposure,Auto Exposure,Manual Gain,Auto Gain.
1.4.1 Exposure and Gain Control
1.4.1.1 AAROI
The camera counts the current image brightness within the AAROI region and uses it for auto exposure and auto gain calculations. By default, AAROI is not enabled, and the real statistical area in effect is the entire area of the output image, i.e., the ROI area.
The AAROI coordinates are relative coordinates within the ROI area. So the area must be smaller than the image ROI.
Related command: aaroi,aaroienable.
1.4.1.2 Exposure
The camera exposure time range is (0-1000000/fps)us. All parameters of exposure time are in microseconds. However, due to the properties of the sensor, the actual exposure time unit of the sensor is 1 line, can not be accurate to 1us.
In any mode, the actual current exposure time can be read with the exptime command.
Exposure control modes: ME, AE, AE once.
Related command: expmode,exptime.
1.4.1.2.1 Manual Exposure(ME)
Use a fixed exposure time.
Related command:expmode,metime。
1.4.1.2.2 Auto Exposure(AE)
Automatically adjusts the exposure time of the camera so that the average brightness in the AAROI reaches the target value.
This process continues all the time and therefore allows for rapid adaptation to changes in the environment light.
The target brightness value ranges from 0 to 255, independent of pixelformat.
Related command:expmode,aatarget, aemaxtime.
1.4.1.2.3 Auto Exposure once(AE once)
When the camera is set to AE once mode by the expmode command, the camera will make one auto exposure adjustment and turn off the auto adjustment after finishing. If the adjustment cannot be made to the target brightness due to a mismatch between the environment brightness and the maximum exposure time, the adjustment will also stop after timeout.
Related command:expmode,aatarget, aemaxtime.
1.4.1.3 Gain
The gain range of the camera, depending on the sensor used. An increase in gain will lead to an increase in noise, it is recommended not to use too much gain.
| model | Range | Step |
|---|---|---|
| MV-MIPI-IMX178M | 0-48dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-SC130M | 0-40dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-IMX296M | 0-48dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-IMX287M | 0-48dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-IMX265M | 0-48dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-IMX264M | 0-48dB | 0.1dB |
| MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M | Analog Gain:0 dB to 11.6 dB
Digital Gain: 6 dB to 23.8 dB |
0.1dB |
| RAW-MIPI-SC132M | 0-40dB | 0.1dB |
| RAW-MIPI-SC535M | 0-69dB | 0.1dB |
1.4.1.3.1 Manual Gain(MG)
Use a fixed gain.
Related command:gainmode,mgain.
1.4.1.3.2 Auto Gain(AG)
Automatically adjusts the gain of the camera so that the average brightness in the AAROI reaches the target value.
This process continues all the time and therefore allows for rapid adaptation to changes in the environment light.
The target brightness value ranges from 0 to 255, independent of pixelformat.
Related command:gainmode,aatarget, agmaxgain.
1.4.1.3.3 Auto Gain once(AG once)
When the camera is set to AG once mode by the gainmode command, the camera will make one auto gain adjustment and turn off the auto adjustment after finishing. If the adjustment cannot be made to the target brightness due to a mismatch between the environment brightness and the maximum gain, the adjustment will also stop after timeout.
Related command:gainmode,aatarget, agmaxgain.
1.4.1.4 Other notes
1. When enabling AE and AG at the same time, the camera gives priority to the use of exposure time and minimizes the use of gain. Try to avoid the noise caused by gain.
2. aeag_run_once_save command execute AE&AG once operation and save the results to the camera as manual values.This is a function that is useful when the camera is installed.
1.4.2 gamma
Users can use the Gamma function to optimize the brightness of the captured image to display the user's desired image brightness on the monitor.
The camera applies a Gamma (γ) to each pixel to change the luminance value of each pixel according to the following formula。
For 8-bit pixel format, the maximum pixel value (Ymax) is 255.
For 10-bit pixel format, the maximum pixel value (Ymax) is 1023.
For 12-bit pixel format, the maximum pixel value (Ymax) is 4095.
The gamma value ranges from 0 to 4.00.
a) When Gamma = 1.0, the overall brightness remains the same.
b) When Gamma < 1.0, the overall brightness increases.
c) When Gamma > 1.0, the overall brightness decreases.
In all cases, black pixels (brightness value = 0) and white pixels (brightness value = maximum) will not have their brightness adjusted.
For now, gamma only works on 8bit depth image.
Related command:gammaenable,gamma.
1.4.3 Lookup Table(LUT)
The camera can replace the camera output values with the target values one by one according to a user-defined lookup table.
Related command:lutenable,lut.
1.4.4 OSD Overlay
Certain camera modules perform an OSD overlay function after the ISP process.
- Mode 1:
Overlay a square cross at the center of the image with both width and height of 150 pixels, and a stroke width of 2 pixels. This is used for coordinate calibration.
Related command: osdmode
1.5 IO Control
For RAW series cameras, the input IO supports trigger edge and trigger delay, and does not support trigger filtering function. The output IO is the strobe out pin of the sensor that leads directly.
1.5.1 Input IO Configuration
Now there is only one input pin: TriggerIN_IO. The function is: input signal for hard trigger.
The active edge of the trigger signal can be configured via the Trigger Edge function.
Related commands :trgedge.
1.5.1.1 Trigger Filter
In order to suppress the interference in the external trigger signal, MV series cameras have external trigger filtering function, including low level filtering and high level filtering.
The function of low level filtering is to filter out the interference signal on the low level, and the function of high level filtering is to filter out the interference signal on the high level.
The range of the filtering window can be set to [1,1000000]us.
The following figure shows an example of enabling both low level filtering and high level filtering with a filtering time of 1ms:
Related commands :trgfilter_enable,trgfilter_time.
1.5.1.2 Trigger Delay
MV and RAW series cameras have a trigger delay function. The trigger delay time can be set to [1,1000000]us. It is in effect for both hard and soft triggers.
Related commands :trgdelay.
1.5.2 Output IO Configuration
MV series cameras now have 2 output signals, OUT_IO1 and OUT_IO2.
OUT_IO1 can be configured for Strobe and Userout functions.
OUT_IO2 can be configured for five functions, Strobe, Userout, TriggerWait, XVS and XHS.
Related commands: outio1_mode, outio2_mode.
1.5.2.1 Strobe
In this mode, the camera sends a trigger signal to activate the flash. Strobe signal is active high, and when the trigger signal is received, the strobe signal level is pulled up, and the pull-up time is the sum of the exposure delay and trigger cycle.
The strobe signal of the RAW series cameras is directly output by the sensor, representing the accurate exposure time period.
1.5.2.2 UserOut
In this mode users can set their own constant output level of the camera to do special processing, such as controlling the constant light source or an alarm device.
The output level can be set individually for different OUT_IO.
1.5.2.3 TriggerWait
The trigger wait signal indicates that the camera is now ready to respond to the trigger signal.
The camera's trigger wait signal can be used to optimize trigger image acquisition and can effectively avoid the problem of over-triggering.
1.5.2.4 Diagram of Strobe and TriggerWait signals
1.5.2.4.1 Smartsens's Normal trigger mode(Global shutter)
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-SC130M,RAW-MIPI-SC132M,RAW-MIPI-SC535M.
The following figure lists the Strobe signal and the TriggerWait signal with the number of trigger frames set to 2 as an example.
1.5.2.4.2 Sony's Normal trigger mode(Global shutter)
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX296M,MV-MIPI-IMX265M,MV-MIPI-IMX264M,MV-MIPI-IMX287M,MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M.
The following figure lists the Strobe signal and the TriggerWait signal with the number of trigger frames set to 2 as an example.
1.5.2.4.3 Sony and Smartsens's Pulse trigger mode(global shutter)
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX296M,MV-MIPI-IMX265M,MV-MIPI-IMX264M,MV-MIPI-IMX287M,MV-MIPI-SC130M,MV-MIPI-GMAX4002M.
1.5.2.4.4 Sony's Normal trigger mode(Rolling shutter)
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX178M.
The following figure lists the Strobe signal and the TriggerWait signal with the number of trigger frames set to 2 as an example.
1.5.2.4.5 Sony's Rolling shutter multi-frame trigger mode
This section applies to model: MV-MIPI-IMX178M.
The following figure lists the Strobe signal and the TriggerWait signal with the number of trigger frames set to 3 as an example.
1.5.2.5 XVS
Output the XVS signal of the sensor.
1.5.2.6 XHS
Output the XVS signal of the sensor.
1.5.2.7 Pin Reverse
To facilitate camera IO configuration and connection, the MV Series cameras have an output pin level reversal feature.
Related commands :outio1_rvs,outio2_rvs.
1.5.3 Read pin status
All input and output IO pins can be read for their current status via the i2c bus.
Related commands :gpios_status.
1.6 Special note for RAW series camera Trigger Delay
For RAW series cameras, the trigger signal needs to be forwarded to the sensor by the MCU, and this forwarding has a fixed delay of about 950ns.
1.7 Document History
- 2025-03-14
Add description about GMAX4002M.
- 2025-01-07
1. Remove the description of the SDA mode for the RAW series products.
2. Add a description of the external trigger mode for the RAW series based on the upgrade achievements.
- 2024-08-27
Add a description of the pulse trigger mode. Ensure it aligns with the values in the `trgmodecap` register.