Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module User Manual

1. Overview

The Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module is designed for use with NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX/AGX Orin and Raspberry Pi CM3/CM3+ platforms. It features an 8-megapixel IMX219 sensor with a low distortion 105°(D) FOV M12 lens, providing clear imaging for various applications.

Figure 1: Front view of the Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module.

Key Features:

• Sensor: 8MP IMX219
• Lens: Low Distortion 105°(D) FOV M12 Lens
• Compatibility: NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX/AGX Orin, Raspberry Pi CM3 / CM3+
• Interface: 4-Lane MIPI CSI-2
• Included Cables: One 15-22 pin FFC ribbon cable and one 22-22 pin FFC ribbon cable.

2. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to properly connect and prepare your Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module.

2.1 Connecting the Camera Module

1. Identify the correct FFC ribbon cable: The module includes two cables: a 15-22 pin FFC ribbon cable and a 22-22 pin FFC ribbon cable. Select the appropriate cable for your specific host board (Jetson or Raspberry Pi CM3/CM3+).


Figure 2: The two types of FFC ribbon cables included with the camera module.

2. Connect the FFC ribbon cable to the camera module: Gently lift the black or brown clip on the camera module's FFC connector. Insert the ribbon cable with the blue side facing away from the camera lens, ensuring it is fully seated. Close the clip to secure the cable.

Figure 3: Back view of the camera module showing the FFC connector.
3. Connect the FFC ribbon cable to your host board: Locate the CSI camera connector on your NVIDIA Jetson or Raspberry Pi CM3/CM3+ board. Gently lift the connector clip, insert the other end of the ribbon cable with the blue side facing the connector clip, and close the clip to secure it.


Figure 4: Example of FFC ribbon cable connection to a Jetson board.

4. NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin Specifics: For connection to the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin platform, an additional MIPI adapter board is required. Ensure this adapter is correctly installed before connecting the camera module.

2.2 Initial Software Configuration

The camera is generally compatible with Jetson Developer Kits and Raspberry Pi CM3/CM3+. Specific drivers may not be needed for basic functionality, but it is recommended to check Arducam's official documentation or GitHub for the latest software and examples.

• ISP File Update: If the captured image appears reddish, download the latest .isp file from the Arducam website or GitHub and follow the instructions to override the existing one.

3. Operating Instructions

This section provides basic commands for operating the camera module with NVIDIA Jetson platforms. For detailed usage and advanced features, refer to the Arducam GitHub repository for NVIDIA Jetson.

3.1 Basic Camera Capture (Jetson)

To capture video streams, you can use nvgstcapture-1.0 or gst-launch-1.0 commands. Ensure your system is set up with the necessary GStreamer plugins.

Example using nvgstcapture-1.0:

nvgstcapture-1.0 --orientation 2

This command initiates a video capture with a specific orientation. Adjust the orientation value as needed for your setup.

3.2 Advanced GStreamer Commands (Jetson)

For more control over resolution, frame rate, and format, use gst-launch-1.0.

Example for 3280x2464 resolution at 21fps:

gst-launch-1.0 nvvarguscamerasrc ! 'video/x-raw(memory:NVMM),width=3280, height=2464, framerate=21/1, format=NV12' ! nvvidconv flip-method=2 ! 'video/x-raw,width=1920, height=1080' ! nvegltransform ! nveglglessink -e

This command sets up a GStreamer pipeline for capturing high-resolution video, converting it, and displaying it. Parameters like width, height, framerate, and flip-method can be adjusted.

3.3 Focus Adjustment

The camera module features a manual focus M12 lens. To adjust focus, gently rotate the lens barrel until the desired sharpness is achieved. The lens is designed for low distortion.

4. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your camera module.

• Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics to clean the lens. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Storage: Store the camera module in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use. Protect it from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Handling: Handle the camera module by its edges to avoid touching the lens or the sensor area. Static electricity can damage electronic components.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with the Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module.

5.1 Image Appears Reddish

If the captured images have an unnatural reddish tint:

• ISP File Update: Download the latest .isp file from the official Arducam GitHub or support page. Follow the provided instructions to install or override the existing ISP file on your host system. This file helps correct color balance.
• Environmental Lighting: Ensure the lighting conditions are adequate and balanced. Extreme lighting can sometimes affect color reproduction.

5.2 Camera Not Recognized or No Image Output

If the camera module is not detected by your host board or produces no image:

• Cable Connection: Verify that the FFC ribbon cable is correctly and securely inserted into both the camera module and the host board's CSI connector. Ensure the blue tab on the cable is facing the correct direction (typically away from the camera lens and towards the connector clip on the host board).
• Correct Cable Type: Confirm you are using the correct FFC ribbon cable for your specific host board (15-22 pin or 22-22 pin).
• MIPI Adapter (AGX Orin): If using an NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin, ensure the required MIPI adapter board is properly installed and connected.
• Software/Drivers: Check Arducam's official resources for any specific software or driver requirements for your operating system and host board version.
• Power Supply: Ensure your host board has sufficient power.

5.3 Poor Image Quality / Out of Focus

If images are blurry or lack detail:

• Manual Focus: Adjust the focus of the M12 lens by gently rotating the lens barrel until the image appears sharp.
• Lens Cleanliness: Clean the lens surface using a suitable optical cleaning cloth.
• Lighting: Ensure adequate and even lighting in your environment.
• Resolution/Frame Rate Settings: Verify that your capture software is configured for appropriate resolution and frame rate settings. Higher resolutions may require more processing power.

6. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Arducam Mini 8MP IMX219 Camera Module.

Figure 5: Dimensional drawing of the camera module.

7. Warranty & Support

Arducam provides a warranty for this product and offers technical support.

7.1 Warranty Information

This product comes with a 6-month warranty from the date of purchase. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or improper installation.

7.2 Technical Support

For technical assistance, software updates, or further documentation, please visit the official Arducam website or their GitHub repository. You can also contact Arducam customer support directly through their website for specific inquiries.

• Arducam Website: www.arducam.com
• GitHub Repository: Search for "Arducam NVIDIA Jetson" on GitHub for code examples and resources.