How do I specify whether I want a colour or monochrome camera?
You can specify after the kickstarter campaign using the survey that will be sent out. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
Why would I want to order a monochrome camera?
Most people will want to order the colour camera. However, for some uses where colour is not important but resolution is then the monochrome version offers some advantages. The colour sensor in the fps1000, in common with most colour sensors, uses a Bayer colour filter mask which scarifies some spatial resolution to achieve colour. In all other respects (for example frame rate and cost) the two versions of the camera are identical. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
What tools do I need to help me develop software for the fps1000?
The best resource to start with is the ST Micro website as the fps1000 uses the STM32F437 ARM CPU: http://www.st.com/web/en/catalog/mmc/FM141/SC1169/SS1577/LN1789. I use the STMCubeF4 package (http://www.st.com/web/en/catalog/tools/PF259243) to configure the on-chip resources in conjunction with the Keil uVision IDE for software development: http://www.keil.com. You will also need a hardware link between your PC (via a USB port) to the fps1000’s SWD (Single Wire Debug) port. STM have a low cost one called the ST-Link/V2. For developers there will be more comprehensive information available and unlimited email support to help you get up and running. You will also have source code for operation of the fps1000 hardware. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
What size is the sensor?
Silver: 1/4”, Gold: 1/2”, Platinum: 1”. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
How long can the camera be used without having heating problems?
The fps1000 is a very low power design. The small phone battery shown in the video is rated at 3000 mAh and powers the fps1000 for several hours. The fps1000 runs ‘warm’ but no more than other handheld devices such as phones. No special ventilation is required. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
What is the case made of?
The fps1000 is shown in a simple, off-the shelf plastic case. It is functional and very low cost. However, this is under review and production cameras are likely to have a more ruggedised case. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
What specification is the USB?
The USB socket is USB-2 full speed. It is intended as a power source and PC command port (not required). It will also be used to download software upgrades. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
What other connections does the fps1000 board provide?
If you want to incorporate the fps1000 board into your own projects it has some extra access points: A SWD (Single Wire Debug) port for software download and trace; An SPI interface; 4 general purpose I/O ports which can be used by the on-board CPU to control image capture triggering etc. All I/Os are +3.3v. It’s the user’s responsibility to use these under the specified conditions. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
Does the sensor use a global shutter?
Yes, image capture is via a global shutter. Last updated: Sun, Oct 5 2014 5:13 pm EDT
Current Estimated Shipping Date: May 2015
The considerable improvements to the fps1000 have resulted in a delay to shipments. This is mainly due to the lead time for case manufacture. The new transformation in the camera should be worth the wait. Thank you for your patience. I will keep you updated on the progress.
Last Updated At: 12/05/14 | See Kickstarter UpdateWhat is BackerKit?
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