Selection of a sensor based on its performance is key for imaging engineers. If the chosen sensor looks right for a specific application, the next step is to evaluate that sensor to make sure it is indeed the correct choice. FRAMOS has several options available to evaluate sensors for individual applications
Evaluation Boards (EVB)
Evaluation Boards help camera manufacturers and OEMs in the development, selection and integration of sensors into their image processing applications and vision systems. EVB kits allow for detailed test and measurement with access to ‘truly raw data’ from the sensor, as well as its configuration and status information. They serve as a test tool to help you evaluate whether a particular sensor has the required image quality and performance for your application. An EVB helps finding the perfect sensor for the project by evaluating easily a number of different sensors.
The Benefits using an EVB
Pixel Purity
The EVB provides direct access to the output data for the image sensor running in any mode. This data is raw pixel data ensuring you are seeing the true performance of the device. The purity of this data allows designers to get a head start on the image pipeline and downstream image processing.
Complete control
The EVB provides a constant connection to the sensor providing the ability to change and monitor its operation at its most functional level.
Validate the sensor will work in your system
The point of evaluating a sensor is to ensure it will work in the final system, under specific imaging restrictions and requirements. Using an EVB is a good way to easily evaluate a number of competing sensors for the application, it will enable the evaluation of the optimal sensor to see if it will perform exactly as it is needed.
Add lenses
Finding the right lens is just as important as choosing the right sensor. If a high-quality sensor is chosen but the lens quality is not comparable, achieving a good quality image is impossible. With an EVB it is possible test multiple lenses with the sensor to ensure the ideal imaging system is created.
Sensor timing control and external trigger testing
A sensor needs to be tested in an operational mode that matches the final operational state. The EVBs allow for internal and external timing control, with the EVB taking complete control of the settings. An external frame trigger can also be applied to the EVB to synchronize images with illumination or other external events.
With an evaluation board, the development of the image pipeline can be started at an early stage. Costs are also significantly reduced when an evaluation board is used as it provides the ability fully analyze and assess the true performance of the sensor under specific operating conditions thereby reducing the vision system development time. An EVB is reference for faster design of any custom prototype imaging system.