The FASTCAM MH-4 digital video imaging system from Photron (San Diego, CA) allows the use of one to four detachable camera heads that measure 35 × 35 × 35 mm, and weighs less than 100 grams. The system features light sensitivity with 512 × 512 pixel resolution, up to 2,000 frames per second, and 10,000 fps at reduced resolution. The camera system utilizes a 10-micron-square pixel with an 8-bit monochrome and 24-bit color CMOS sensor. Designed for hostile conditions, the camera heads can be mounted in areas of limited space in any orientation using 32.8-foot cables. Three cable types (90° right, straight, and 90° left) and two camera-head connector configurations (top- or rear-mounted) enable mounting and placement of the camera heads.

The tilting camera mount features NF style lenses, with a C-mount adaptor also available. The cameras can withstand shock and vibration with high-G ratings of 100 Gs on any axis, making them suitable for recording and motion analysis of events during high impact tests. The camera features a single processor that supports up to four cameras with Gig-E connectivity.



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Photonics Tech Briefs Magazine

This article first appeared in the November, 2006 issue of Photonics Tech Briefs Magazine (Vol. 30 No. 11).

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