Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera (IMX477) for Nvidia Jetson Boards

1. Bubuka

This manual provides detailed instructions for the Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera module, designed for use with Nvidia Jetson development boards. This compact camera features a 1/2.3-inch IMX477 sensor and an M12 mount lens, making it suitable for high-resolution imaging applications where size and weight are critical considerations.

Figure 1: Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera module with M12 lens and flexible flat cable (FFC) connector. The green PCB board has "Arducam" branding.

2. Fitur konci

• Mini and Lightweight Design: The camera board measures 24mm x 25mm, similar in size to the Raspberry Pi V2 module. It is equipped with an M12 lens, ideal for applications requiring high resolution within limited size and weight constraints, such as model airplanes.
• Pencitraan Berkualitas Tinggi: Incorporates a 1/2.3-inch, 12.3 Megapixel IMX477 sensor, delivering sharp images with a maximum still resolution of 4056(H) x 3040(V).
• Optimized Lens Specifications: Features a low-distortion M12 Mount lens with an Effective Focal Length (EFL) of 3.9mm, a Horizontal Field of View (FoV) of 80°, and an F-number (F/NO) of F2.8.

Figure 2: This image compares the Arducam Mini IMX477 camera with the Raspberry Pi V2 module (IMX219), highlighting their similar compact board sizes (25mm x 24mm). It emphasizes the small footprint of the IMX477.

3. Parentah Setup

3.1 Sambungan fisik

1. Ensure your Nvidia Jetson board is powered off before making any connections.
2. Locate the MIPI CSI-2 camera connector on your Jetson board.
3. Carefully insert the flexible flat cable (FFC) from the Arducam Mini IMX477 camera into the MIPI CSI-2 connector. Ensure the blue tab on the FFC faces upwards and is fully seated.
4. For connection to the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin platform, an additional MIPI adapter board may be required. Refer to the specific documentation for your AGX Orin model.

Figure 3: This diagram illustrates how to connect the camera's flexible flat cable (FFC) to the MIPI CSI-2 connector on an Nvidia Jetson board. A green circle highlights the FFC insertion point.

3.2 Pamasangan Supir

The Arducam Mini IMX477 camera requires specific kernel drivers to function correctly with your Nvidia Jetson board. Please note the following critical information:

• Kernel Driver Dependency: This camera relies on kernel drivers. A specific driver version is typically required for each kernel version.
• JetPack Compatibility: Versions of JetPack earlier than 4.3 (L4T 32.3.1) are not supported. Ensure your Jetson board is running a compatible or newer JetPack version.
• Kernel Updates: Upgrading or downgrading your operating system often results in a kernel version change. If this occurs, you will need to reinstall a matching camera driver.
• Future Updates: Future JetPack or kernel updates may necessitate new driver releases from Arducam. Check the official Arducam documentation or support channels for the latest drivers.

Refer to the official Arducam documentation for your specific Jetson board and JetPack version for detailed driver installation instructions. Typically, this involves downloading and compiling the appropriate driver package.

4. Parentah Operasi

Once the camera is physically connected and the correct drivers are installed, you can begin using it with your Nvidia Jetson board. The camera interfaces via MIPI CSI-2, and can be accessed using standard Linux camera APIs and tools available on the Jetson platform.

4.1 Basic Image and Video Capture

You can typically use command-line tools or programming libraries (e.g., GStreamer, OpenCV, or `libcamera` if supported by your JetPack version) to capture images and video. Examples of basic operations include:

• Still Image Capture: Capture high-resolution images up to 4056x3040 pixels.
• Ngarékam pidéo: Record video at various resolutions and frame rates, including 1920x1080 at 60 frames per second (fps).

Consult the Nvidia Jetson developer documentation and Arducam's specific software examples for detailed commands and programming interfaces relevant to the IMX477 sensor.

5. Spésifikasi

6. Pangropéa

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Penanganan: Always handle the camera module by its edges to avoid touching the lens or sensor surface. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions are recommended.
• Ngabersihan lensa: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics to gently clean the lens. For stubborn smudges, a small amount of lens cleaning solution can be applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Panyimpenan: When not in use, store the camera in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment, preferably in its original packaging or an anti-static bag.
• Kaayaan Lingkungan: Avoid exposing the camera to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight for extended periods.

7. Cara ngungkulan

If you encounter issues with your Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Kaméra Teu Dideteksi:
  • Pariksa sambungan fisik: Ensure the FFC is securely and correctly inserted into the MIPI CSI-2 connector on the Jetson board. Verify the cable is not damaged.
  • Pamasangan supir: Confirm that the correct kernel drivers for your specific Jetson board and JetPack version are installed. Refer to Section 3.2.
  • JetPack Version: Ensure your JetPack version is 4.3 (L4T 32.3.1) or newer, as older versions are not supported.
  • MIPI Adapter (AGX Orin): If using an NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin, verify if an additional MIPI adapter board is required and correctly installed.
• Poor Image Quality / Out of Focus:
  • Fokus Manual: The M12 lens typically requires manual focusing. Gently rotate the lens barrel to achieve sharp focus.
  • Kabersihan lensa: Check if the lens is clean and free from dust or smudges. Refer to Section 6 for cleaning instructions.
  • Kaayaan Pencahayaan: Ensure adequate and appropriate lighting for your imaging environment.
• Masalah parangkat lunak:
  • Kasaluyuan Parangkat Lunak: Ensure the software or scripts you are using are compatible with the IMX477 sensor and your Jetson environment.
  • Resource Conflicts: Check for any other processes or devices that might be conflicting with camera access.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, please consult the Arducam official support resources or contact their customer service for further assistance.

8. Garansi jeung Rojongan

For detailed warranty information regarding your Arducam Mini 12.3MP HQ Camera, please refer to the warranty card included with your product packaging or visit the official Arducam website. Arducam offers technical support for their products. If you require assistance with setup, operation, or troubleshooting beyond the scope of this manual, please contact Arducam customer support through their official channels.

Optional protection plans may be available for purchase separately to extend coverage beyond the standard warranty period. Please check with your retailer for details on available protection plans.