The Euresys Grablink is a series of frame grabbers designed for empowering computer vision applications. This installation guide covers several models: 1622 Grablink Full, 1623 Grablink DualBase, 1624 Grablink Base, and 1626 Grablink Full XR. These devices are crucial components in systems requiring high-performance image acquisition from digital cameras.
Function Description:
The Grablink series of frame grabbers are designed to capture images from Camera Link-compatible digital cameras and transfer them to a computer's memory for processing. They act as an interface between the camera and the host PC, facilitating high-speed data transfer necessary for demanding computer vision tasks. The different models offer varying capabilities to suit diverse application requirements. For instance, the 1623 Grablink DualBase and 1626 Grablink Full XR models are designed for more intensive applications, while the 1624 Grablink Base provides a foundational set of features. Some models, specifically the 1624 Grablink Base, 1623 Grablink DualBase, and 1626 Grablink Full XR, are "switchable PoCL frame grabbers" implementing the "SafePower" feature as defined in the Camera Link standard version 1.2. This feature allows for Power over Camera Link (PoCL), simplifying cabling by delivering power to the camera through the Camera Link cable itself. The devices are integral to systems where reliable and high-throughput image acquisition is paramount, such as industrial inspection, medical imaging, and scientific research.
Important Technical Specifications:
The Grablink frame grabbers are designed to conform to various international standards and regulations, ensuring their reliability and compatibility.
Usage Features:
The Grablink frame grabbers are designed for straightforward integration and operation within a computer vision system.
- Installation: The installation process involves physically inserting the card into an available PCI Express slot. For the 1624 Grablink Base, a low-profile bracket is provided for installation in smaller computer enclosures, requiring the replacement of the standard full-height bracket.
- Power over Camera Link (PoCL): For models supporting PoCL (1624 Grablink Base, 1623 Grablink DualBase, 1626 Grablink Full XR), power can be supplied to the camera directly through the Camera Link cable, reducing the need for separate power supplies and cabling.
- Auxiliary Power Input: An optional 12V power source can be connected to the Auxiliary Power Input connector using a 4-pin MOLEX cable if the camera(s) are powered through the Camera Link cable or if +12V power output is required on any System I/O connector.
- Internal GPIO and Card-to-Card Link: The devices offer optional connections for Internal GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) as required by the application, and card-to-card link interconnections for synchronized acquisition when multiple cameras are attached to different cards.
- Software Support: The MultiCam driver is essential for operation and is available from the Euresys website. Detailed instructions for driver installation are provided in the MultiCam on-line documentation.
Maintenance Features:
Proper handling and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and reliable operation of the Grablink frame grabbers.
- Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions: The boards are electrostatic sensitive devices. Users must follow proper ESD handling procedures, such as touching an unpainted metal part of the computer enclosure with a bare hand before handling the board, to discharge any static electricity. Damage due to improper handling is not covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): To ensure EMC compliance, the card bracket must be securely fastened with the relevant screw. Shielded cables must be used to connect peripherals to the card.
- Thermal Management: Adequate cooling is vital for proper operation and extended board reliability. It is recommended to ensure good airflow around the board, potentially by using computer case fans, and to avoid placing the Grablink card next to other heat-dissipating boards.
- Electrical Safety: Users must ensure the AC power cord is unplugged before touching any internal part of the computer during hardware installation to prevent electrical shock.
- Hot Plugging Prevention: Uncontrolled plugging and unplugging of equipment can damage the board. Users must always switch off the computer and any relevant system device before connecting or disconnecting cables at the frame grabber or auxiliary board bracket. Failure to do so may damage the card and void the warranty.
- Grounding Practices: Proper equipment grounding practices are essential to prevent poor ground interconnection, ground loops, or ground faults, which can induce unwanted voltage and excessive current in interconnecting cables, potentially damaging the frame grabber or camera electrical interface. The use of cable assemblies with overall shields solidly connected to the conductive shell of all connectors is recommended to enhance protection against grounding problems and improve electromagnetic compatibility.
- Disposal: According to European directive 2012/19/EU, the product must be disposed of separately from normal household waste and recycled according to local regulations.
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